Brett Favre Works Out With High School Team and Ironic Sound Bytes Follow

I have ESPN on in the background right now since I am working from home today to take care of the pooch. Highlights were just shown of Brett Favre working out with a high school team yesterday. After showing Favre toss the ball around a few times, they interviewed him and he explained that he felt okay, but that (to paraphrase) “okay is not good enough in the National Football League.”

Favre then proceeded to drop the following nugget of brilliance on viewers everywhere: “There’s time, but there’s not time, if that makes sense.”

Should I really answer whether that makes sense?

Obviously I could be a douche and point out the obvious contradiction of his words, but I’d rather do that for a statement that Favre made later, one that makes even less sense.

As to the time element, Favre is right. There is time before the season starts for him to get his arm strength back, but the Vikings need a decision soon. And as Favre said, just like he’s said for the last two (three? four?) offseasons, “I don’t know if I’m going to play or not.”

Great. Would it kill you to make up your mind before the speculation about you playing drags on for months? I suppose since he’s a former NFL MVP and the all-time leader in every QB stat imaginable, and I’m just a clown with a computer, Favre can do whatever the hell he wants and my judgments mean about as much as what Brad Childress instructs his punters to do on Sundays.

But he saved his most…humorous? ironic? ridiculous? nonsensical?…comment for the end of the brief on-field interview, and I have highlighted it below:

“When I’m done and I’m done, and you can’t go back.”

We will now pause for a seconds while it sinks in that Brett Favre said that.

Over the last half decade, if there is one thing we have learned it is this: Brett Favre is never done and the possibility will always exist now and seemingly until the end of time that he could go back.

Obviously he’s not going to be playing into his 50s, but do you really think that if he’s not on the Vikings roster on Opening Day, and their QBs struggle this season like they always do, that the rumor mill won’t continue to churn about a possible midseason gallop-in-on-the-white-horse by Favre? I’m sorry, maybe for a lot of players the “when I’m done I’m done” quote is apt, but history has clearly shown us that it is not for Favre.

And for the record, I like Favre and want him to come back. Sure the endless coverage about his comebacks get a little bit old, but I still find something compelling in the overall story. Certainly, watching Favre and Adrian Peterson in the same backfield would be exciting. If I didn’t feel like Favre just craved the offseason attention as much as he really is undecided, I wouldn’t feel the need to comment about quotes like the one mentioned above.

But at the end of the day I still think the NFL is more exciting with Brett Favre, and no amount of irony will make me want to not see him on the field in 2009. As to the actual possibility of seeing Favre play in 2009, Vikings owner Zygi Wilf recently said that the decision is Favre’s and that the legendary QB controls his own destiny. According to AP reports on ESPN.com:

Wilf told a group of very interested season ticket holders that the possibility of Favre playing for the Vikings next season hinges on Favre’s surgically repaired right arm.

“Right now, it’s all up to Brett Favre in terms of where his future is at,” Wilf told about 1,200 fans gathered at the State Theatre for a “State of the Vikings” event. “I’ll just leave it at that.”

The comments echoed Favre’s statement in an interview with HBO two days earlier. Favre said then that he is considering a return if his throwing arm will allow it and that the Vikings are the only team has has spoken to about a comeback.

This guy must be absolutely thrilled.

As fans, all that we can do is sit and wait and have the remote control ready when today’s Favre story comes on, because it either won’t be true (or at least disputed) or will be filled with information we already know — like this morning’s “latest.” The reality is that Favre will either be on the Vikings come the preseason or he won’t; either way, speculation about his future won’t stop.

Because despite his own quote, Brett Favre can always go back.

**********

* – Brett Favre photo above by Cory Hollenhorst found at The Purple Trojan blog at MVN.com

“Internet Reports” Suggesting Browns May Be Targeting Trade for Brandon Marshall

According to “internet reports”, the Cleveland Browns are targeting WR Brandon Marshall in a trade with the Denver Broncos. The website reporting the rumor, which I will not name so as not to given them their 15 minutes, has said that the package would include KR/ST Stud/WR/Complete Badass Josh Cribbs plus one or more draft picks.

To view the complete report on the Brandon Marshall-to-the-Browns rumor, hop on over to the good folks at Pro Football Talk.

(For the record, hopefully you understood the sarcasm of the first paragraph. Pro Football Talk is decidedly NOT a blog that typically receives such treatment anymore (but we are!), although they did at one time. Now, they are striking deals with NBC and basically encroaching more and more on the NFL universe every single day — and I mean that as positively as possible. Congrats to Florio for the recent announcement of the deal with NBC. We are quite pleased that “suitable nodes” will no longer be part of the PFT lexicon.)

Now, back to this Brandon Marshall-to-the-Browns trade rumor.

I believe that Florio is hearing such whispers, I just don’t believe that the rumor will ever come to fruition, nor that it should.

First, I just don’t see Brandon Marshall being a “Mangini guy.” Granted, I only have peripheral knowledge of what a “Mangini guy” is from what we’ve seen through the press, which of course is very little because Mangini is decidedly a “Belichick guy.” However, what I believe that we have learned is that Eric Mangini is a coach who values character, loathes distractions, and employs a system that demands cerebral players and desires versatile players.

We also know the following about the Browns: they are thin on experience and proven play-making ability at the WR position and are still embroiled in a contract spat with the Cribbs.

Still, I just can’t see this being a move that Eric Mangini and George Kokinis would want to make.

Based solely on reputation and my own admittedly subjective opinion, Joshua Cribbs is cut from a higher cloth of character than Brandon Marshall. Additionally, Cribbs has played multiple positions in the NFL and was a QB in college. Just based on the diversity of his experience alone, I think it’s reasonable to assume that Cribbs is a more cerebral player overall than Brandon Marshall. And while Marshall may know receiving better, Cribbs clearly has versatility in his corner.

As for distractions, yeah Cribbs has gone public with his desire for a reworked contract, but he also participated in camp most of the way through the squabble. Marshall, on the other hand, has unresolved (though disputed, by him) issues with domestic violence that were recently chronicled on Outside the Lines. And Marshall is clearly not as amenable as Cribbs. Something set Marshall off and he, essentially, “took his ball and went home.” Marshall recently cleared out his locker so serious was he about geting out of Denver, with Jay Cutler’s departure ostensibly being part of the reason.

Update: Just caught this recent post on PFT regarding a statement by Brandon Marshall at his website.  The post by Marshall purports to explain some of his reasoning for leaving.  Aaron Wilson explains why the Broncos may have a hard time trading Marshall, and none of them should make the Browns overly excited about getting him.

But what about from a purely football standpoint?

Brandon Marshall is clearly a much better WR than Joshua Cribbs, and would give the Browns either a potent 1-2 punch of Marshall and Braylon Edwards, or as PFT suggests, would put Edwards “in play” for a trade to another team. Either of those options is intriguing, especially if the current accord between Mangini and Edwards is on a rocky foundation. (I don’t know either way, but Edwards certainly had a tense relationship with the Browns and the city last year.)

However, how much of a loss would Joshua Cribbs be on special teams and as a versatile offensive weapon? I think the Browns would lose a lot. Cribbs provides difference-making ability every time he lines up for a punt or kick-off. He consistently makes big yardage-saving tackles and is a threat to break a big return every time he touches the ball.

I think that the impact of Brandon Marshall — a terrifically talented receiver — on offense is equivalent to the impact of Joshua Cribbs on special teams. And while I don’t believe offense and special teams are necessarily equals, I do believe they impact NFL games in a similar enough manner that the character and intangibles (not to mention future contract cap-friendliness) of Joshua Cribbs should win out here.

Forget the draft pick, especially if its a first-day pick. I definitely would not do that deal, not with how valuable draft picks are. And the truth is that I, personally, would not trade Joshua Cribbs straight up for Brandon Marshall. Yes, Marshall is a great WR and would instantly help Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson, but the Browns have a new coach and should be building for the long haul. Joshua Cribbs is the kind of underrated yet impactful player who can be had for a reasonable contract and become a cornerstone — in both talent AND character — into the next decade.

Brandon Marshall? I’m not so sure. Lots of talent, but will he help to define the new era of football under Eric Mangini or undermine it? I don’t have the answers to those questions, and am basing them solely off of my personal impressions of Brandon Marshall through what I’ve read in the media, but I’ll tell you this: I have no such fears or conceptions about Joshua Cribbs.

If I were the Browns I would send a clear message that the new regime is making a commitment to character and leadership. Brandon Marshall may possess these attributes in addition to his talent, but Joshua Cribbs does possess these attributes in addition to his talent.

Thus, the Browns should trust and hang onto what they know: keep Cribbs. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

Now, Michael Vick on the other hand…hmm, that’s mighty intriguing, don’t you think?

Brett Favre to Surgically Repair Biceps Tendon, Jon Gruden to Surgically Repair ESPN Hatred

A couple of quick hit NFL news items that came out today.

First, regarding Brett Favre’s inevitable 2009 comeback.  PFT is reporting today that Brett Favre is planning to visit Dr. James Andrews on Tuesday and that Favre is expected to have surgery to repair his partially torn biceps tendon.  The PFT report comes via Charley Walters of the St. Paul Pioneer Press (via a link I clicked on but could not get to work).

The surgery is expected to sideline Favre (pictured left way back on his draft day…sporting some killer rolled up jean shorts) for 6-8 weeks, meaning he’d be ready for training camp but it would give him a convenient excuse to miss all of the other offseason activities for whatever team he decides to play for.

Of course, this report comes out on the same day that Favre’s agent Bus Cook said that there was no basis for all of the speculation regarding a potential Favre comeback.  Riiiight.  So Favre is going to have surgery just because.  It has nothing to do with getting ready for next season.  Okay Bus.

Anyway, in related news, Favre is also expected to have Dr. Andrews take an X-Ray of his soul.  It is expected that nothing will be found.

The other big story making the rounds in the NFL today was the surprising announcement that Tony Kornheiser was stepping down from his third banana post on Monday Night Football.  Replacing him will be Jon Gruden, who made his love for ESPN known a few years ago when he uttered the following statement (via Deadspin):

“I don’t watch ESPN. I don’t believe half the [expletive] people on the channel, personally – no disrespect. But if Bruce Gradkowski is throwing games in Toledo, how in the hell does he lead the NCAA in passing percentages? That is a crock. You know, these reports make me sick – really. I don’t believe [there is] any truth to it, and I’ll go to my grave believing that. I hope ESPN 3 or 4 has real sources behind this story, because it has nothing to do with the kid. He’s a great kid. He wants to be great. This is very uncharacteristic, in my opinion, of ‘professional’ journalism.”

Isn’t irony a beautiful thing?

I have to say this though: I like the move.  I’m a big fan of Tony Kornheiser, but I think he was horribly miscast at MNF.  So whether his dismissal was really a personal choice because he hated flying (unlikely) or whether he was pushed out by the suits at the WWL (very likely, considering they announced Gruden’s arrival about 30 seconds later), it’s a good move all around.  And I thought that Jon Gruden did a great job during the NFL Network’s coverage of the draft, as I said immediately afterwards.

So at least this story has a happy ending.  The Favre story?  Not to so much…because there never is an ending.

Upset Over Contract, Josh Cribbs Plans to Skip Voluntary Minicamp This Week

If Eric Mangini wants to help the Browns author a Falcons- or Dolphins-like turnaround in 2009, he surely knows that he needs his most talented players on board with his program. Browns fans certainly realize this, and unfortunately one of those talented players has already decided to skip the Browns’ first voluntary minicamp this week.

Josh Cribbs, special teams extraordinaire and team spark plug, has announced that he will not be attending this week’s voluntary full-team minicamp. As reported by John Taylor of the Orange and Brown Report, talks between Josh Cribbs and the Cleveland Browns “have gone nowhere.”

Here is an excerpt from John Taylor’s post at the OBR regarding Josh Cribbs skipping Browns minicamp this week:

One Browns source stated that “the team is having a hard time figuring out a value to place on what Josh brings to the team. He’s obviously a tremendous football player, a tremendous asset to the team and to the city, but we all just have to find some type of way to gauge financially what is acceptable in relation to what he does and to the [salary] cap.”

Cribbs is still playing under the contract he signed before his incredible 2007 season in which he always seemed to be involved in every big run of Browns momentum, whether it be from a punt return, a kickoff return, or a yardage saving tackle as a gunner. From 2009 through 2012 Cribbs’ salaries are $620K, $635K, $650K, and $790K with “up to $400K” escalators built into each remaining year.

According to Taylor, “Cribbs is not necessarily looking for a new deal right now; he is, however, looking for some type of meaningful progress in the talks.” Taylor also says that Cribbs is believed to be okay with a deal that includes lots of incentives based on his offensive participation. The root of his displeasure apparently is the fact that he was promised by Randy Lerner, Romeo Crennel, and Phil Savage that he would have his contract situation resolved and be taken care of after the 2008 season.

Obviously with Crennel and Savage now gone, replaced by Eric Mangini and George Kokinis, Cribbs still expects such an organizational promise to hold true. Personally, I cannot say that I blame him one iota. And as Mike Florio astutely points out over at ProFootballTalk, this is not the first time that Eric Mangini has encountered trouble with promises made by previous regimes. Citing the same report from the OBR, here is what Florio had to say about Josh Cribbs skipping the Browns voluntary full-team minicamp:

During Mangini’s three years with the Jets, three different players made similar claims: guard Pete Kendall, receiver Laveranues Coles, and tight end Chris Baker.

Taylor reports that, after the arrival of the Magini-Kokinis regime, Cribbs was told that the team would focus on fixing his contract after the 2009 draft. Three weeks later, no progress has been made.

I have a really hard time believing that Eric Mangini and George Kokinis would really have trouble figuring out the value of Josh Cribbs. If you want an example from 2007, you can pretty much just watch the tape of any Browns game. Josh Cribbs was electric and was either the source of a momentum shift or a momentum hammer time and again. An opposing would score, and Cribbs would immediately reverse the field position and get the Browns going, or he would make a big play when the Browns were on a roll and suck the life out of the opposition.

Considering his potential versatility in a Wildcat formation, or his potential if effectively and judiciously used as a third-down slot receiver, Cribbs is worthy of a new deal. He plays hard every down, he is a high character leader in the locker room, and he is the kind of person and player that you build winning organizations around. Unless his contract demands are just outrageous, which it does not sound like they are, what is the upside to pissing him off and forcing him to dig in his heels and stay away this week?

And getting back to my point above, if Mangini and Kokinis need more help figuring out Cribbs’ value to the team, why not look at Mangini’s very own Jets from last year. Leon Washington offered incredible value as one of the Jets’ primary weapons. I know that special teamers sometimes get looked upon as replaceable parts, but certain guys deserve to be paid, with Washington and Cribbs being two of these guys.

Not to mention, Cribbs is absolutely beloved by all Browns fans. If Mangini and Kokinis are looking to win over the fans (which they seem to care little about), they will get Josh Cribbs taken care of it. More importantly, if they are looking to ultimately win over the fans by winning games (which they do seem to care a lot about), they still should get Josh Cribbs taken care of. We all know that one of the Browns’ biggest problems is a dearth of playmakers on both sides of the ball. Josh Cribbs, however, can be a playmaker on both offense and special teams. Unless there is something I don’t know (which, granted, could be the case) I do not see any reason not to reward Cribbs for his contributions thus far to the organization and to make him a long-term, happy piece of Browns’ foundation moving forward.

Let’s just hope this ultimately gets resolved and Cribbs gets into camp. I don’t want to sit through the painful dreck of 2008 once again in 2009, and it’s hard for me to envision anything else without Josh Cribbs on the field playing like Josh Cribbs.

Update: Good news? Since posting this, PFT has posted regarding the fact that there is still an outside shot Cribbs could report to Browns minicamp tomorrow if “the team demonstrates today sufficient interest in adjusting Cribbs’ contract to reflect his performance over the two seasons since he signed it…” Let’s hope such interest is shown, and soon.

Update #2: Yet another update on the Josh Cribbs story over at PFT. It seems that the Browns front office is taking issue with Josh Cribbs’ stated recollection that Owner Randy Lerner promised Cribbs that his contract situation would be handled, even after Phil Savage and Romeo Crennel were let go. This is decidedly not the response that I was hoping the Browns would have to this situation. Fan-f***ing-tastic.

Jets Release Brett Favre, Open Floodgates of Favre-Vikings Rumors and Speculation

I can’t wait to hear what Ryan Russell has to say about this. (Something tells me it will involve the f-word. Multiple times.)

In case you haven’t heard, the New York Jets released legendary and purportedly retired QB Brett Favre yesterday. Essentially what this means is that Favre could now sign with any team. Previously, the Jets would have owed the Packers 3 first round draft picks if they traded him to a team in the NFC North.

If I were to be optimistic, I would look at this as opening the door for Brett Favre to sign a one-day contract with the Packers so he could officially retire at Lambeau. However, the pessimistic Florio-influenced side of me looks at this as potentially opening the door for another summer of endless Favre speculation.

Here is what PFT had to say about this yesterday:

Jets Officially Release Favre — (Pro Football Talk)

Wow.

On the same day we speculated that the stage could be set for the Second Annual Brett Favre Retirement to be followed by the Second Annual Brett Favre Unretirement, the Jets threw the NFL world a curve ball by releasing Favre from the reserve-retired list.

…

But unless Favre is planning to sign a one-day contract to officially retire (again) with the Packers, there’s no reason for the Jets to make the move if Favre has no intention of returning to football.

Clearly any initial speculation will center on the Minnesota Vikings. The whole “they are only a quarterback away from the Super Bowl” thing has been one of the most oft-uttered cliches of the past few NFL seasons. And while the Vikings signed Parsley Sage Rosemary and Thyme Rosenfels in the offseason, the improvement he will provide over Tarvaris Jackson is not expected to be any type of quantum leap.

The Vikings, however, are built to win now. Their first round pick of Percy Harvin, despite his much-publicized off-field issues, was looked at by many as a desperate choice by a coach in Brad Childress who knows that he has to win now – or else. And it is no secret that Favre and the Vikings had discussions last year when we all first learned that Brett Favre might wear colors other than the green and gold in 2008.

So while nothing definitive has been reported that Brett Favre is considering yet another comeback, nothing definitive has been reported to quell such speculation either. [Update: Just caught this article posted last night at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel website, saying Favre released a statement saying "Nothing has changed. At this time, I am retired and have no intention of returning to football." It is unclear if the statement was from three weeks ago or yesterday.] And reading between the lines of Favre’s statement back when he retired from the Jets could offer a little insight into his potential future plans. As Florio pointed out yesterday at PFT, Favre and agent Bus Cook had discussed the possibility of the Jets releasing Favre before he retired again in February:

“[Agent] Bus [Cook] and Mike [Tannenbaum] have been talking about this for a while,” Favre said in a statement. “Nothing has changed. At this time, I am retired and have no intention of returning to football.”

Well, now something has changed. And the question is, at this time, with these new circumstances, does Favre now have an intention of returning to football?

I have to be honest, I’m straddling the fence on whether or not I want to see Favre come back.

On the one hand, there is something inherently exciting about watching a game quarterbacked by Brett Favre. Even at his current age he has the capacity for a 3- or 4-touchdown gem on any given Sunday. He also has the capacity to throw for 100 yards and 3 picks at any time. That uncertainty and limitless potential for any game he is involved with is compelling. And the thought of Favre playing in the NFC North for a team other than the Packers immediately produces so many storylines that servers hosting sports websites across America may spontaneously combust should Favre ever come back with the Vikings.

However, Favre has become an increasingly annoying and self-absorbed presence over the past few years. If he could come back and just receive some coverage, I’d be okay with it. The reality, however, is that football news and reporting would be absolutely dominated once again by Favre stories. That inevitable overshadowing of everything else in the NFL would be a tremendous drawback from a fan perspective, and might just be enough to make the compelling Favre-in-the-NFC-North storylines more of an annoyance than an interesting component of another NFL season.

One thing we know is that the speculation train left the station last night when the Jets announced Favre’s release. And it won’t truly stop until the 2009 season begins and Favre is nowhere near an NFL facility.

I just hope that if he does come back, the mainstream sports media takes the ubiquitous advice of Viagra and sees a doctor (probably some sort of addiction specialist) should their “erection last more than four hours.” The inevitable Favre-on that would ensue from another unretirement would simply be unnecessary and would almost certainly be both overwhelming and overdone.

Brett Favre is now one of those sports figures for whom there is no middle ground. I’d be all for his return if he would just be another NFL quarterback headed to training camp. In the absence of such media restraint, however, his return would be the story again for another NFL season. I could take and would welcome Brett Favre the quarterback for another year; I could not take Lord Favre the Most Important Man Alive for another season.

But I think we all know how it would turn out, so maybe I’m not really straddling the fence at all. Stay home and stay retired Brett. The time has come for us all to move on.

What do you think?

Now that the door is slightly cracked open, would you want to see Brett Favre make another comeback in 2009?

• No
• Yes

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A Historical Perspective on the Unsuccessful History of Drafting Junior QBs in the First Round

For the next week or so, the counsel of purportedly wise and learned men will be sought by NFL fans far and wide as we all search for ways to understand and predict what might happen this Saturday in the 2009 NFL Draft.

Mel Kiper Jr. Todd McShay. Mike Mayock. Don Banks. Peter King. Matt Mil– wait, never mind on that one.

(The hilarious McShay-Kiper hair swap picture to the left is courtesy of The Sports Hernia, by the way.)

Everywhere you turn there is another draft junkie who has the 40 times memorized for the top 150 players, is constantly shuffling his own personal draft board, and who is creating endless amounts of mock drafts that are, for all intents and purposes, meaningless (not all that unlike pre-draft blog posts…).

So in this uncertain time of guesswork and projection, as we are forced to sift through consistent streams of disinformation, perhaps we should look outside the typical network of draft “experts” to gain some perspective on what will — or, to be more apt, what should — happen this Saturday and Sunday at the 2009 NFL Draft.

Ladies and gentleman of the sports world, I present to you the official NFL draft guru of Midwest Sports Fans: George Santayana.

Who is George Santayana? No, he is not the new late night anchor on ESPNNews. Nor is he one of the endless stream of columnists that seem to pop up out of nowhere on SI.com or ESPN.com.

George Santayana is actually not even alive. In fact, the Spanish-born philospher, essayist, poet, and novelist died in 1952. Coincidentally, the 1952 season brought one of the four NFL championships ever won by the Detroit Lions, all of which came in 1957 or earlier, the team that holds the #1 draft pick in this weekend’s draft. And if the Lions are wise (perhaps the biggest if in all of sports) they will listen to the sage words of George Santayana, a man whose many aphorisms provide a road map to NFL draft success.

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

~ George Santayana

Apparently, according to Tom Kowalski at MLive.com, the Detroit Lions have settled on Georgia QB Matthew Stafford, who declared for the draft after his junior season, as their choice at #1 overall in the 2009 NFL draft. Kowalski believes this based on comments made by Lions team president Tom Lewand, while also offering the unconvincing caveat that Lewand’s comments could possibly be some kind of smoke screen. For a while now the conventional wisdom has been that the Lions will take Stafford at #1, and nothing has really led anyone “in the know” to believe that a name other than Stafford’s will be called first on Saturday afternoon.

But the Detroit Lions, and all of the other NFL teams thinking about drafting one of the underclassmen QBs projected to go in the first round (Stafford, plus USC junior Mark Sanchez and Kansas State junior Josh Freeman) would be wise to heed the advice of George Santayana. Past drafts offer a wealth of wisdom that could mitigate the chances of NFL teams wasting their first round pick on a QB that history says will not turn into a franchise — or even solid — player.

And is there any reason to draft a QB in the first round other than if you think he will become your franchise QB?

A recent article by Vic Carucci, a senior columnist at NFL.com who is not a wise as George Santayana but is adept at offering useful wisdom specific to matters of professional football, lays out the historical perspective that should be required reading for any NFL team considering the underclassmen QBs as potential first round picks. (And Browns’ brass, if you really are considering Mark Sanchez at #5, then I’m talking to you here.)

Carucci’s article highlights the importance of maturity in the development of young NFL quarterbacks. And while he does not specifically state that NFL teams would be foolish to draft Stafford, Sanchez, or Freeman in the first round this year, the table accompanying his post (screen grabbed and included below to the right) speaks volumes about the underlying point.

Let’s break the table down into three general categories: successes, failures, and incompletes.

Successes

• Ben Roethlisberger
• Drew Bledsoe

Failures

• Alex Smith
• Rex Grossman (yes, he made a Super Bowl, but does anyone really consider him anything other than a failure in Chicago?)
• Michael Vick (if maturity is what keeps underclassmen QBs from succeeding, then I think Vick has to be considered a failure despite his flashes of success.)
• Tim Couch
• Ryan Leaf
• Heath Shuler
• Tommy Maddox
• Todd Marinovich
• Jeff George
• Andre Ware

Incompletes

• JaMarcus Russell
• Vince Young
• Trent Dilfer (gets bonus points for winning a Super Bowl, but didn’t win it for the team that drafted him.)

I don’t know about you, but it seems to me that the breakdown is heavily weighted towards the middle of the table, almost like there is a failure vacuum sucking the potential out of underclassmen QBs, each of whom set back the franchises that drafted them in the first round. Obviously, the successes of Ben Roethlisberger and, to a lesser degree, Drew Bledsoe give teams hope that they can unearth the unlikely junior QB who succeeds. But if I’m studying this piece of history from a war room, I’m looking at the negatives and having a hard time believing that playing 2/15 odds is in the best interests of my organization.

Thus, thee words of George Santayana ring exceedingly true. Whether any NFL teams are listening is another question.

But there are other words by George Santayana that ring true here as well:

Before you contradict an old man, my fair friend, you should endeavor to understand him.

~ George Santayana

With history so blatantly on the side of not drafting underclassmen QBs in the first round, then why do many NFL teams, who invest so much money and so many resources into the scouting and drafting process, continue to make such choices?

The answer is simple: you have to have a good quarterback to win a Super Bowl. (And, ironically, former junior draft pick Trent Dilfer is often held up as the anomalous exception that proves the rule, after he “led” Baltimore to a Super Bowl title by simply not losing games so their defense could win them.)

The importance of having a good QB should not be understated. And when good QBs are so hard to find, it is understandable that teams become intoxicated with players whose skill sets and college production suggest that they might someday possibly become a franchise QB.

A team like the Lions cannot plan ahead until next year and wait to take Sam Bradford. What if they actually stumble into a few wins this season and do not pick first next year? If they squander this year’s pick on a non-QB, and do not have the opportunity to have their pick of next year’s litter, they could enter 2011 with Daunte Culpepper still at QB and no succession line to the future. When considered in this context, a 2/15 roll of the dice almost, maybe, kind of, sort of makes sense.

What to do with this paradox? Well, let’s go back to our good friend George Santayana.

Science is nothing but developed perception, interpreted intent, common sense rounded out and minutely articulated.

~ George Santayana

We often hear the NFL draft discussed as a science, though an imperfect science at best. There are endless measurables used to gauge a players’ ability to compete athletically at the professional level. Tests like the Wonderlic purportedly assess a player’s aptitude. Game tape is dissected and graded, players are poked and prodded, values are assigned to each position on the draft board, and teams devise rating systems based on numbers and colors to group players on their draft boards.

And from this maelstrom of data and analysis comes what teams hope is a minutely articulated and developed perception from which they can interpret a strategic draft day intent that leads to successful common sense decision-making and, thus, draft picks who ultimately contribute to the greater cause of winning championships.

Yet, as we all know, it rarely if ever works out so cleanly. So perhaps that quote by George Santayana really does not clear up anything.

Got another one George?

The truth is cruel, but it can be loved, and it makes free those who have loved it.

~ George Santayana

Ah, the truth. It certainly can be a cruel and tricky little devil.

And with respect to the “science” of the NFL draft, the truth can be especially cruel when it contradicts the “developed perception, interpreted intent, and common sense rounded out and minutely articulated” that NFL teams invest so much time and so many resources in developing, but that can ultimately be flawed and misleading.

NFL teams want to find franchise QBs, they need to find franchise QBs, and I am convinced that they look for “franchise” inside of draft-eligible underclassmen quarterbacks where no franchise probably exists. In a year such as this one, in which no senior quarterbacks possess the talent to suggest “franchise” to NFL teams, those teams desperate for QBs are forced to consider underclassmen and compelled to weigh the cruelty of truth (underclassmen QBs drafted in the first round usually fail) with the reality of the NFL (teams without franchise QBs rarely win Super Bowls).

In business, important but uncertain decisions and investments are assessed along a risk/return continuum in which the assessed risk of failure is weighed against the potential for return and then analyzed within the context of the organization’s overall goals. And the NFL is wholeheartedly a business, perhaps even more than it is a sport (though that is a debate for another day).

As the NFL draft looms closer, teams are weighing the risk/return of drafting underclassmen QBs Matthew Stafford, Mark Sanchez, and Josh Freeman with more urgency. For example:

• The Detroit Lions are asking themselves if they should go safe and choose player more likely to be a solid, consistent NFL contributor (Aaron Curry) or take the guy with the higher upside but far greater risk (Matthew Stafford).
• The Jacksonville Jaguars are asking themselves if they should fill a need by targeting a WR in a WR-rich draft or hedge their risky bet on David Garrard with an even more risky bet on a junior QB.
• The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are asking themselves if they should stay at their current pick to take the risky Freeman, or if they should trade away picks to move up and select the only slightly less risky (according to conventional wisdom, at least) Sanchez; or do they forget about QBs altogether and draft a WR or infuse their aging defense with youth.

Here’s a novel idea for all of the teams targeting underclassmen QBs with first round picks: study history, remember it, and vow not to repeat it. And not just the history that says underclassmen QBs drafted in the first round have an absurdly high rate of not being successful, but also the history that proves franchise QBs do not have to be taken in the first round. Sure, many are. But Tom Brady wasn’t. Drew Brees wasn’t. Kurt Warner wasn’t. Joe Montana wasn’t. Brett Favre wasn’t.

Yet, all of these quarterbacks and many other non-1st round QBs have experienced success and become bona fide franchise QBs. Why? Because they came to organizations that were built on a solid foundation and had the pieces in place to allow them to grow into their positions and develop as football players and as leaders.

Peyton Mannings, John Elways, even Matt Ryans, are exceedingly rare. And these guys, plus the many other senior first round QBs who have turned into franchise QBs, have two things that Matthew Stafford, Mark Sanchez, and Josh Freeman do not have:

• Far fewer questions about their abilities and mentalities. More game tape + more experience in college allows NFL scouts to understand a players’ strengths and weaknesses better. Compared to drafting a senior QB, NFL teams almost “draft blind” when taking an underclassmen.
• By staying in college through their senior year, these players had the maturity to handle the pressure of being the #1 pick, as well as the advanced skill set and understanding that an extra year in college helps to develop.

The truth is that drafting any QB in the first round is essentially a crap shoot. Seniors drafted #1 overall have failed (Akili Smith, Cade McNown, Dan McGwire…thank you Peter) and juniors drafted later in the first round have succeeded (Ben Roethlisberger). But if, as an organization, you commit yourself to fundamentally sound principles and choose your risks wisely — and fighting 2/15 odds is not what I consider wise — you will be better off in the long run and increase your chances of building a consistent winner.

My humble opinion, if you cannot already figure it out, is that drafting Matthew Stafford (pictured, left) at #1 would not be a bold move by the Detroit Lions; nor would it be, according to history, a wise move. The same goes for the other teams thinking about one of these QBs in the first round. For teams with so many holes, why would you want to select a quarterback that still needs development and that has a 13% chance of succeeding, and then place him on a team that is not currently built to win?

Over the next week, NFL war rooms will be dominated by the voices and egos of GMs, coaches, and scouts, all of whom want to set their respective organizations up for the best chance at future success with their decisions this weekend. And TVs and radios will be dominated by draft gurus and “experts” who think they know what each team should do this weekend to achieve that best chance at future success. Yet with all of the talking, projecting, analyzing, melkipering, posturing, and picking, it would be wise for one particular voice to not be drowned out.

Listen to George Santayana.

The best path to understanding this year’s NFL draft is with a solid understanding of each player available, each team’s needs, plus a healthy dose of historical perspective. The last one, understanding history, is the component that usually gets forgotten. And it is probably the reason why teams end up making many of the same mistakes year after year.

It is also the reason why this final quote from George Santayana perhaps sums up the totality of the NFL draft experience, for both the teams and fans, as well as any:

Why shouldn’t things be largely absurd, futile, and transitory? They are so, and we are so, and they and we go very well together.

~ George Santayana

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What do you think?

Should the Detroit Lions take Matthew Stafford #1 overall?

• Yes (15%, 4 Votes)
• No (85%, 22 Votes)

Total Voters: 26

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Whether it does or not, assuming that your team needs a QB. Would you want them to select one of this year's junior QB prospects in the first round?

• Yes (10%, 2 Votes)
• Yes - but only if its in the second half of the first round (30%, 6 Votes)
• Not anywhere in the first round (60%, 12 Votes)

Total Voters: 20

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2009 NFL Draft Preview: TV Schedule, Draft Order, Ticket Info, and News Links

The month of March and the beginning of April annually provide some of the most consistently exciting sports action of the year. Conference tournament week in college basketball turns into Selection Sunday which turns into March Madness all while Spring Training is going on in the background.

Then, right as March Madness hits its apex with the Final Four, Spring Training turns into Opening Day. And then, without even giving sports fans a breather, the greatest golf tournament of them all, the Masters, occurs the following weekend.

For the next two weeks, mercifully, we can all take a collective breather. But you would be wise to truly get some sports R&R over the next ten or so days, because things are about to get exciting and hectic again.

We are now about a week away from the NBA Playoffs getting started, and less than two weeks away from the NFL draft. And with each successive week, the MLB schedule becomes more and more important. We’re nowhere near the dog days of summer yet, but Toronto and Baltimore currently sit atop the AL East standings, so we can all just imagine what kind of urgency baseball coverage will get if that continues.

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Plan Ahead MSF Readers: Find Great Deals on 2009 NFL Tickets at StubHub

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As we always try to do here at Midwest Sports Fans, we will continue our habit of previewing the big sporting events and giving you as much schedule and background information as possible to ensure that you a) don’t miss a minute of the action; b) know what to expect; and c) understand the context of the event so you can fully appreciate whatever transpires.

There are still a few more things to be decided in the NBA regular season so this morning we turn our attention to the NFL Draft with our 2009 NFL Draft Preview. Here are some of the particulars:

2009 NFL Draft Preview and TV Schedule

• 2009 NFL Draft date: April 25th-26th
• 2009 NFL Draft location: Radio City Music Hall in New York City
• 2009 NFL Draft TV Coverage: First day live pick-by-pick TV coverage on ESPN beginning at 4:00 PM ET
• 2009 NFL Draft TV Coverage: Second day live pick-by-pick TV coverage on NFL Network beginning at 10:00 AM ET
• Number of Rounds: 7
• StubHub Tickets: 2009 NFL Draft Tickets
• StubHub Tickets: NFL Tickets
• Special Offer for MSF Readers: Subscribe to Sports Weekly – as low as $.67/issue

And here is the 1st Round draft order for the 2009 NFL Draft:

And now a whole bunch of links to try to satiate your insatiable desire for NFL draft news and projections, 95% of which will prove completely meaningless come April 25th:

• 2009 NFL Draft List of Early Entrants — (MSF)
• Todd McShay – Mel Kiper Jr Video: the infamous argument over Matt Stafford — (MSF)
• 2009 NFL Draft Complete 7-Round Draft Order — (NFL.com)
• 2009 NFL Draft Predict the Pick Contest — (NFL.com)
• 2009 Mock Drafts — (NFL.com – all analysts’ mock drafts)
• Who is the ultimate #1 draft pick? — (Adam Rank, NFL.com)
• All-Time NFL Draft: the best players drafted at every first round slot — (Jim Reineking, NFL.com)
• Complete NFL Draft History Database — (ESPN.com)
• Mock Draft Machine — (ESPN.com)
• Todd McShay’s 2009 NFL Draft Tiers — (Todd McShay, ESPN.com)
• 2009 NFL Mock Draft 5.0 — (Don Banks, SI.com)
• 2009 NFL Draft #1 Pick Preview — (Peter King, SI.com)
• 2009 NFL Draft Underrated List — (Don Banks, SI.com)
• Underrated NFL Draft Coverage Website – (WalterFootball.com)
• BSO 2009 Mock Draft — (Black Sports Online)

Happy reading. I’ll be back as the week goes along with more interesting news, notes, and rumors — the latter of which is inevitable in the two-week run-up to next Saturday. The challenge is to sift through the mess and try to figure out what is actually true.

Which, of course, is why it’s usually better to just wait for draft day and see how the damn thing actually unfolds.

Jerry Angelo Finally Brings Hope to Chicago Fans By Acquiring Jay Cutler

I got in the car on Thursday afternoon wondering if the sports radio would be talking about the Bulls’ playoff hopes, the Hawks’ recent stuttering, or opening day being around the corner.

I was not expecting to hear anything about Jerry Angelo.

I presumed he was still on vacation until September 1st, until football commanded his attention. The GM for the Bears was one of the most despised in the city, where falling on ill favor is not that easy. Fans, while loyal and passionate, are usually comfortable here. It is hard to find a terrible rant about a sports figure in Chicago. Jerry Angelo, however, was on the verge of finding Windy City protesters at his house.

The Bears’ 2008 season proved nothing, except that the Bears had a franchise that desperately needed help. Questions popped up everywhere and it seemed that we would have to wait for the draft to have any of those questions answered.

The I hear on 670 the Score immediately upon getting into my car, “The Sun-Times website is reporting that the Bears got Jay Cutler.” Terry Boers stays on the mic reporting the story, while Dan Bernstein clearly pushed the rolly chair back from the mic and said, “Good GOD!” You would think that a stripper walked into the studio with a huge cardboard check, with his name on it.

The news about Cutler coming to the Bears was shocking, an amazing franchise move, something warranting exaltations.

But I paused.

I paused because of my not-so-emotional connection to the Bears. I am a transplant, and while I love the team and the city, my mind immediately began to dissect the pick, the pros and cons. Here’s what I got:

PROS

1. Jerry Angelo is alive and cares about his job. In fact, he has an eye for football talent; in fact, he actually seems to understand the amazing loyalty of Chicago’s fans and will try to reward that by performing the duties of a competitive GM.

All kidding aside, this was huge for Angelo.

On ESPN radio The Afternoon Saloon declared April 2 “Jerry Angelo Day”. The GM has never been a fan favorite but won over hearts by making a decision that will help the franchise in the long term.

2. Jay Cutler. Dude is All-Pro. He’s up and coming at 25 and has proven his competitive edge in the AFC West with a team that struggled last year with injuries and a brutal defense. Finally a quarterback will actually hold the football for the Bears whose major value is not the jokes you can throw around about his neck beard or errant passes.

3. The fans get a shot of life at long last. Bears fans weren’t thrilled about the future of the franchise at the end of last season. The McCaskeys couldn’t hide behind the accidental NFC championship in 2005 and Brian Urlacher. Moves needed to be made, so they were.

CONS

1. When I think of Cutler, I think of the highlight reel of him hitting Brandon Stokely in the slot, Eddie Royal deep, and Brandon Marshall in the end zone. Then I thought about Rashied Davis tripping on poorly run routes, Devin Hester apologizing to Lovie on the sideline cause he can’t run anything but a streak, and Greg Olsen dropping balls.

Who the hell does Cutler throw the ball to?

Yes, Brandon Lloyd showed some talent last year and barring injury maybe he’ll do it again. Of course you hope that Hester and Olsen improve with a talented QB placing the ball or else they’re just more dead weight waving around their two handed “U” on MNF. I understand that things will have to build around him but with a great running game you hope that Cutler doesn’t waste that deadly arm on pitching the ball to Matt Forte 35 times a game.

2. The cost was monumental. It is a fact that the Bears have a terrible history with first round picks but you must understand the value of those picks for two years is humongous. You can kiss that chance at grabbing Jeremy Maclin or some other first round caliber receiver you desperately need (I won’t even consider Crabtree or Harvin, because that’s just unreasonable…)

Forget replacing the aging and injured line. Last year’s 1st rounder, the OT Chris Williams went down with a flimsy back before he even saw the inside of Soldier Field and now you got to look to the later rounds to find that kind of talent again. I’m sure it’s out there, but the Broncos certainly now have a monopoly on it.

3. The buildup could hurt. Let’s remember, Cutler had one All-Pro year. Yes, he is talented. Yes, he can play. Is he Jesus? Well, if you’re going on looks alone Kyle Orton was just as close to this team’s personal Jesus. The reality is, we know nothing yet and if it proves to be a whole lot of not-that-great then this city will have blue balls for the next decade.

4. IF JAY CUTLER IS INJURED OR HIS DIABETES ACTS UP, REX GROSSMAN IS REQUIRED TO PLAY QUARTERBACK, DUE TO THE LOSS OF KYLE ORTON. REXTASY REMAINS DANGEROUSLY CLOSE TO THE FOOTBALL, FOLKS.

Are we excited? Damn right we are.

Football season has new blood in this city. Enough blood that I might start inviting people over to watch the games again because it’s worth getting excited about. Unfortunately, Jay Cutler hasn’t even been fitted for his jersey, and has a lot riding on him.

It was a great day in Chicago. For a city that has never had a quality QB, at least not a consistent one, loyalty was rewarded and fans are thrilled. Well done, Mr. Angelo. Perhaps if the Bears go 11-5 this year and win the division with Cutler, April 2nd 2010 will be Jerry Angelo Day. We’ll have to wait and find out, though, and now fans are happy to wait.

Kyle Orton In Memoriam Photo Diary — And Will Jay Cutler Be a White Sox Fan or a Cubs Fan?

Now that Jay Cutler has gone from beautiful, mountainous Denver to the Windy City, and Kyle Orton has done the opposite, there are three very important issues that must be addressed:

1. A complete analysis of the football implications of the Orton-Cutler trade from each team’s perspective.
2. An analysis of whether Jay Cutler will be a Cubs fan or a White Sox fan.
3. A pictorial reminder of the unintentional comedic joy that Kyle Orton takes with him from Chicago to Denver.

Regarding a football analysis of the trade, I am hoping that our buddy Kaner will be logging in at some point today to provide this. I could do it, but it would take time away from the fun I plan on having with #’s 2 and 3. So, if you are thirsting for serious football talk and just want a football-specific analysis on the trade, here are some links for you:

• Cutler might regret Denver exile — (Peter King, SI.com)
• Cutler, Angelo, McDaniels on hot seat — (Gene Wojciechowski, ESPN.com)
• Cutler trade among most notable — (Len Pasquarelli, ESPN.com)

So there you go. Satisfy the “serious” football side of you at those sites.

Now, let’s analyze what is really important in the Cutler-Orton-draft-picks deal consummated between the Chicago Bears and Denver Broncos: now that Jay Cutler is a proud Windy City citizen, will he be a White Sox fan or a Cubs fan?

Reasons Why Jay Cutler Might be a White Sox Fan:

We all know that Jay Cutler is talented. In fact, in some ways he is the NFL equivalent of Alexei Ramirez: he has put up great stats and he has worlds of talent, but no one is really sure just how good he really is. Can we believe the numbers? Is it more hype than long-term, sustainable success? I mean, we’re all pretty sure that Alexei Ramirez will be a badass moving forward, but we’re not positive. Same with Jay Cutler. So there is that connection.

Hmm…that’s about all I got, and it was a stretch just to come up with that.

Reasons Why Jay Cutler Might be a Cubs Fan:

Let’s just start with the things that come to right off the top of my head:

1. Jay Cutler is a whiny baby who complains, bitches, and moans when things don’t go his way.
2. Jay Cutler has exhibited levels of douchebaggery rarely seen from a starting NFL quarterback.
3. Jay Cutler’s reputation far exceeds his actual level of production or achievements. Hell, at least Alexei Ramirez made the playoffs in his one season.

All three of these truths are far more descriptive of a Cubs fan and the Cubs organization than a White Sox fan or their organization.

At the end of the day, Jay Cutler has proven that he will act like a petulant child when he does not get his way. Hmm…is there anyone who works at Wrigley Field that makes demonstrative displays when things do not go his way?

Now, I’m sure that all of the Cubs fans and White Sox haters out there will try to compare Ozzie Guillen to Sweet Lou and say that Ozzie acts like a child when he doesn’t get his way. And the difference, of course, is that Ozzie Guillen is a championship-winning badass who did what no one thought possible: bring a World Series to the city of Chicago.

When Lou Piniella and the Cubs do that, we’ll give Sweet Lou and his sychophants the benefit of the doubt. Until then, enjoy it when Jay Cutler shows up in the bleachers and then starts complaining because its too hot, or his beer is warm, or the Cubs are losing, or that it’s Saturday, or that…well, you get the picture.

The point is this: is there anything that defines a Cubs fan more than wanting recognition and deference despite the complete void of substantive accomplishments by them or their team? And by comparison, is there anything that defines Jay Cutler more than the same thing?

Conslusion: Jay Cutler is definitely a Cubs fan.

And when the Cubs get swept in the first round of the playoffs again this year (if they make it), Cutler will be there sitting on his hands not cheering, basically acting like the selfish brat he is, right along with the rest of the most overrated fan base in sports.

Now, let’s move on to the other quarterback in the deal: Kyle Orton.

When Orton was playing at Purdue, no one could have imagined the sheer volume of hilarious Kyle Orton pictures that would one day populate the Internet. As a Midwest farewell to Orton, we will run down a few of the more infamous and unintentionally hilarious picture here, in our Kyle Orton In Memoriam Photo Diary:

No longer will Bears fans be able to see this lovely image on their sidelines:

And, of course, this infamous image that first appeared on Deadpsin is now one that Broncos fans can proudly call their own:

But the real losers in this deal are the fine ladies of Chicago, who will no longer have the pleasure of being grinded upon by their city’s fearlessly bearded and tanked quarterback. Killer shades Orton. At least he didn’t pull a Corey Hart on us:

No, now the ladies of Denver will be the ones with the nightly chance to enjoy Kyle and all of his Ortonness. Broncos fans, I present to you Kyle Orton, the new next John Elway:

And that’s all the time we have for today folks. Good luck to both the Bears and Broncos with their new QBs. When neither team makes the playoffs again next year, we’ll all be wondering why we spent so much time worrying about this trade in the first place.

Donte Stallworth Could Face Charges in Fatal Traffic Accident in Miami Beach

(Editor’s Note: No new updates as of Sunday night on the Donte Stallworth case in Miami.  After you read the post below, follow the link to our post from earlier today, in which we discuss the unfortunate litany of vehicular homicides and other legal problems involving former Tennessee players; all are black eyes for both the university and the NFL.)

Per multiple reports today, Browns WR Donte Stallworth was involved in a fatal traffic accident early this morning in Miami Beach and could face charges. Much thanks to Barry McBride at the Orange and Brown Report for the tip on the Stallworth accident.

According to a report in the Florida Sun-Sentinel, Donte Stallworth was driving his Bentley east on the McArthur Causeway (a road KVB and I know well) toward Miami Beach when he struck a 49-year old man crossing the roadway. The victim was taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

More from the Sun-Sentinel on the fatal accident involving Donte Stallworth:

According to witnesses, the victim worked at a nearby shipping company as an overnight crane operator. The man had just finished his shift and was crossing the street to catch a bus when he was struck.

Charges are pending the results of the investigation and blood tests, said Sanchez. Stallworth was cooperating with authorities and has not been charged, he said.

Mike Florio at ProFootballTalk is also reporting that Stallworth is being tested for whether or not he was under the influence at the time of the accident. According to PFT, this is the second traffic incident involving Donte Stallworth driving a Bentley, as he was also arrested in 2006 “after he refused to turn off his cell phone and shut off the engine after a traffic stop for driving with an expired license.”

It stands to reasons that Donte Stallworth was probably out celebrating the $4.875 million roster bonus that he received from the Cleveland Browns. The Browns had no real choice but to pay the bonus, since this portion of the contract Stallworth signed before last season was guaranteed. In 2008, Donte Stallworth was a disappointment in Cleveland as his injury troubles continued and he posted a paltry 17 receptions for 170 yards.

We will have to wait until the test results are back and whether charges are filed against Stallworth to make any further judgments. Either way, a difficult and tumultuous offseason for the Cleveland Browns continues. And as Florio points out, let’s not forget that an innocent man died as the result of a very preventable accident.

Update 3/14 3:40 PM: PFT has updated its report on the pending investigation into the fatal traffic accident in which Donte Stallworth hit a man early this morning while driving his Bentley. According to Florio, who spoke with Miami Beach Police Det. Juan Sanchez this afternoon, Stallworth is not being charged at this time and may not be for several days, pending the results of bloodwork to determine what, if any, substances might have been in Stallworth’s system. Per the PFT report, according to Det. Sanchez Stallworth has been cooperative with the investigation.

Jump over to PFT to read their full update on the Donte Stallworth investigation.

Update 3/14 6:38 PM: PFT has more on the Donte Stallworth story. While no charges are immediately imminent, PFT’s sources apparently believe that Stallworth will be charged with DUI manslaughter. Stallworth reportedly admitted to drinking last night, but took his last drink, according to PFT, at midnight. The accident did not occur until 7:00 this morning.

Lots more over at PFT, so jump over to their latest Donte Stallworth update.

Popular Hometown Hero Joe Jurevicius Released by Cleveland Browns

Keeping with their plan to purge the lifeblood of the Cleveland Browns, General Manager George Kokinis and Head Coach Eric Mangini have cut Cleveland-born wide receiver Joe Jurevicius.

The former Lake Catholic High School (Mentor, Ohio) star returned to Cleveland in 2006 to play out his career near family and friends following the tragic death of his infant son, Michael Joseph. Jurevicius pointed his finger to the sky whenever he scored a touchdown in honor of his son.

Jurevicius, 34, was one of the most prolific third down receivers in the NFL during the Browns 10-6 season of dreams in 2007, but a knee injury that year led to an infection and seven surgeries later, the wound finally healed. Jurevicius told the media his goal was to retire a Brown. He described ending his career by walking off of the field at Cleveland Browns Stadium, orange helmet in hand, his two young daughters by his side.

That is no longer possible thanks to the Mangini-Kokinis regime of stomping out anything orange and brown that is good.

As late as Dec. 18, Joe Jurevicius said, “I want to play here in Cleveland. If that doesn’t happen, then the show goes on the road. But I’m going to play football next year,” according to Tony Grossi of The Plain Dealer in today’s story about the Browns releasing Joe Jurevicius.

I will be rooting for Joe, a true team leader and class act, on whatever team lands him.

In announcing the fate of Jurevicius, George Kokinis used the usual managerial line that the two sides tried, but could not agree on terms of a new contract. But this was no multi-million dollar San Diego Chargers vs. L.T. deal.

Before Jurevicius’ contract was terminated on Wednesday, he was due to make $2.4 million in the final season of a four-year contract he signed in 2006. The Browns may have tried to bring him back at the NFL minimum salary of $845,000 for veterans of 10 or more years—the same concession made by offensive lineman Ryan Tucker, Grossi reported.

But of course this fact was neither confirmed nor denied by the Browns. If true, that kind of “offer” had to be an insult to a proud man who wanted to go out with style on his own terms.

Kokinis stated, “Joe’s done a lot. I know what he means to this team.”

Apparently not, A-hole.

In a statement issued by agent Mark Humenik, there was more than money involved in the Browns’ decision. Jurevicius’ statement said, “As a Cleveland native and lifelong Browns fan, I always hoped to finish my career in brown and orange with my family and friends in the stands, and was even willing to take a steep pay cut to keep that dream alive, which is why I have such a heavy heart today.”

Jurevicius, a Chardon native, said he will “forever cherish the three seasons that I spent here and will never forget the chills that I got whenever I stepped foot on the field on the shores of Lake Erie.”
He thanked Browns owner Randy Lerner, the coaching staff, the Browns organization and their fans “for the overwhelming support … especially the past 14 months.” Joe Jurevicius caught six touchdown passes during his time with the Browns. He says his knee now feels well enough that he hopes to play somewhere next season.

“I know there is still plenty of good football left in me, so please don’t throw any dog biscuits my way when I return to Cleveland Stadium,” he said.

My guess is, when Jurevicius plays for an opposing team at the stadium, loyal Browns fans will give Joe a standing O – and deservedly so. Jurevicius missed all of last season after a staph infection set in following a routine knee procedure in January. Complications required a total of seven surgical procedures, ravaging the knee. But after the last one, which he had done by the prestigious Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala., Jurevicius was heartened that he would be able to play another season.

The Browns have tried to underplay the team’s staph infection problems. Apparently, the new treatment plan under Mangini consists of ridding the team of staph by getting rid of the infected players. Yeah, that will work. Get rid of the patients and the problem disappears.

Browns tight-end Kellen Winslow was recently dealt to Tampa Bay for a second and fifth draft picks. Winslow was hospitalized in 2008, missing several games, purportedly after his third staph infection.
He was suspended for one game after calling out former General Manager Phil Savage for trying to cover-up the problem by telling Winslow to keep silent about what was reported an “undisclosed illness.”

But it was Jurevicius’ support for the Savage-Romeo Crennel regime in December that may have sealed the wide receiver’s fate under the Mangini regime. Jurevicius blamed the Browns 4-12 season in 2008 to injuries and player immaturity, appealing to Browns owner Randy Lerner to stay the course.

A fan favorite, Joe Jurevicius played in three Super Bowls with three different teams in his career before signing with the Browns in 2006. In that off-season, he joined local products LeCharles Bentley and Bob Hallen, both centers, and punter Dave Zastudil, in using free agency to return home to play.
Three years later, only Zastudil remains. Bentley left Cleveland a bitter man after a staph infection contracted while with the Browns destroyed his football playing days.

More bad news: The Browns intend to pay a $5 million roster bonus owed quarterback Derek Anderson. The bonus is guaranteed so the Browns had no choice. Rumors have swirled around the league that the Browns were trying to trade Anderson, but no one took the bait.

If the 2009 season turns out to be another quarterback competition between Anderson and Brady Quinn, the Browns will have taken a giant step backward, further into NFL mediocrity and deeper into oblivion.

The only upside of this Nomangenius regime’s latest move is Jurevicius winds up on a team that respects his talent.

Go, Joe! Godspeed.

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Top picture of Joe Jurevicius photo credit: John Kuntz / The Plain Dealer

Second picture of Joe Jurevicius photo credit: Joshua Gunter / The Plain Dealer

2009 Free Agent Acquisitions and their Fantasy Value

It’s March, and yes I miss fantasy football. If you’re reading this, I am sure you do too. The 2009 NFL free agency extravaganza has been, as always, more than interesting; and with the T.O. implosion landing in Buffalo, it is time to break down the fantasy value of various players and units that have undergone change this offseason.

2009 Fantasy Football Outlook: Terrell Owens

After being abruptly released by Dallas in normal T.O. fashion, that being a disaster, T.O. quickly landed on his feet again in Buffalo. What does this mean to you as a fantasy football team owner?

If you are in a keeper league and currently have him, keep him!

His first years with new teams, minus his rookie year for the 49ers, are great statistically. In addition, he usually does not start the erosion of his relationships with him quarterback and coach until year two, precisely why Buffalo used their brains and signed him to a one-year deal. Buffalo could not buy touchdowns through the air last year, and Trent Edwards’ maturation process with the addition of Owens will definitely lead to more scoring, thus increasing Edwards fantasy value as well.

In a keeper league I would not take Owens before the 9th round, and not before the 7th round in standard leagues. Still, T.O. is running out of coaches and teams to burn, so he will be a model employee this year for the Bills.

2009 Fantasy Football Outlook: The New England Patriots Defense

Forget about the loss of Mike Vrabel. With their core group of now second year linebackers in Jerod Mayo and Shaun Crable, they will not be phased by Vrabel’s departure.

The Patriots also retained Rodney Harrison and just signed free agents Shawn Springs and Leigh Bodden. Although Springs has played 13 NFL seasons, he is still considered a shut down type corner back. I also consider Bodden to be an above average cover cornerback. Adding these two to their defense which already has Ellis Hobbs gives them three quality cornerbacks to match up well against any offense with three talented receivers.

This is a very talented defense and I would keep them as well in a keeper league if you currently have them. On draft day, the defenses usually start going in 12-team leagues around the fifth round. When the first defense comes off of the board, whereever that may be, the Patriots D should not be far behind!

2009 Fantasy Football Outlook: The Denver Broncos Defense

Staying with the defensive theme, the Broncos Defense was horrible last year and not worthy of ever starting. This offseason, the Broncos have been very active in their signings on the defensive side of the ball. Denver’s acquisitions include linebacker Andre Davis, safety Brian Dawkins, defensive tackle Ronald Fields, cornerback Andre Goodman, safety Renaldo Hill, defensive end Kenny Peterson and defensive tackle Darrell Reid.

The most notable players out of this group are Brian Dawkins and Andre Davis. Dawkins is a hard-hitting, emotional leader who will clearly set the tone for this defense. Dawkins leaves it all on the field and will expect the same from his teammates. Davis, who has started in Cleveland his entire career, will also improve their porous defense from a year ago.

I view the Broncos Defense as a great sleeper to draft as your second defense this year. There are always offenses that you as a fantasy owner never want your team to have to face, and if your number one D is playing one of these offenses, like the Patriots, if Denver has a weaker match up, they would be a good play to maximize your points for your defense that week.

2009 Fantasy Football Outlook: Fred Taylor

Taylor’s disrespectful release by the Jaguars means a few things. First, Maurice Jones-Drew’s stock just went through the ceiling. Secondly, The Jag’s offense just lost their most prolific running back in franchise history. Fred Taylor has quietly had one of the top 20 statistical careers of all time. Taylor, underappreciated by NFL fans as a whole by only reaching the Pro Bowl one time, will be a force if given the opportunity in New England.

The key word is “IF”.

For those of you who have never had a New England Patriot running back since the retirement of Corey Dillon, you will never know week in and week out which back of the 200 they use will get the carries. When Dillon retired, Laurence Maroney was the runaway favorite to be an every down back. Years later and many injuries later, that has not happened. This roster still has Kevin Faulk, BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Sammy Morris — all three of which had good fantasy weeks last year depending on who was their favorite, or healthy, back on any given week.

Since Fred Taylor was splitting carries the last couple years, I can see him having two to three good seasons left in him. I like Taylor’s upside and if available in any double digit rounds, I would take him if the opportunity was there. Do yourself a favor and collect the rest of this Patriots group as well with the exception of Faulk.

2009 Fantasy Football Outlook: T.J. Houshmandzadeh

The biggest question here is, “Can T.J. continue his success as the #1 receiver versus his being a #2 behind a clear cut #1 stud?”

The answer: “Yes!”

If healthy, T.J. Houshmandzadeh is as talented as most of the top receivers in the NFL. Matt Hasslebeck just gained a new favorite target to team up with tight end John Carlson and wide receivers Deion Branch and Nate Burleson. I would expect T.J. to go in the sixth round in most leagues. I consider him a steal any further then the eight round.

2009 Fantasy Football Outlook: Laveranues Coles

You can copy and paste everything that I spoke on T.J. Houshmandzadeh and place next to Coles. If Chad Johnson, sorry — “Chad Ocho-Cinco”, stays with the Bengals, Carson Palmer will not notice the absence of Houshmandzadeh. Coles will be as effective as the Bengals offensive line allows him to be, meaning: give Palmer time, Coles will produce.

—————

This group are to this point what I consider to be the most notable offseason signings concerning fantasy value. Look for my fantasy football 2009 NFL draft recap for instant impact rookie players for your 2009 rosters. If I missed someone and you are looking for insight, drop me a note to the article in the comment section.

Kurt Fraschetti

Editor’s note: Kurt will be managing the first ever Midwest Sports Fans Fantasy Football League starting next season. Obviously he had to give JRod a slot in the league so he wouldn’t whine and bitch, but that just means that last place is already filled in. If you are interested in playing, shoot Kurt an email at fraschetti@midwestsportsfans.com and be prepared to state your case and fantasy credentials. We want the best of the best.

Terrell Owens photo credit: AP Photo/The Buffalo News, James P. McCoy

Fred Taylor photo credit: Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Cowboys Cut Terrell Owens – Where Might T.O. End Up?

Late last night my dad called to tell me that Terrell Owens had been cut by the Dallas Cowboys. Normally, this would not appear to have tremendous relevance for a Midwest sports blog. However, I live in Dallas and have to listen to T.O. B.S. seemingly every single day — and of course today was no exception. Thus, let me just write this post and purge myself of any lingering T.O. thoughts so I can get on with the rest of my day.

First off, I agree with the move from the Cowboys’ perspective. Yes, it creates a big question mark at WR, where they now only have the overrated Roy Williams and the underwhelming trio of Patrick Crayton, Miles Austin, and Sam Hurd. However, this is a very good draft for WRs, and with their first round the pick the Cowboys should be able to target guys like Jeremy Maclin or Percy Harvin.

What’s that you say? The Cowboys traded their first round pick in 2009 for Roy Williams? Oh. Hmm…

Well, surely they can still make a play for a WR in free agency, right? Let’s take a look at the Scout.com list of still-available free agent WRs, now that TJ Houshmandzadeh has signed with the Seahwaks and Laveraneus Coles has signed with Bengals. Here is a quick list of the top guys left:

• Marvin Harrison
• Jerry Porter
• Lance Moore
• Joey Galloway
• D.J. Hackett
• Drew Bennett
• And a bunch of other guys not really worth mentioning who fit into the Miles Austin-Sam Hurd class of nondescript 4th or 5th WRs.

So…not a whole lot there to choose from. I could see Marvin Harrison as a potential option, a stop-gap for this season. But he is living more on reputation than anything else these days, and his rep isn’t even that good anymore. Jerry Jones does like to bring in “names” though, so I wouldn’t necessarily count Harrison out.

The point of this silly exercise is that the Cowboys made themselves a less talented offense by cutting Terrell Owens, and there are not a whole lot of options out there to replace him. But you know what? I still think it will make them a better team. Here’s why:

• The Cowboys should be built around the run, not the pass. They have Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice in the backfield. Three excellent runners. Plus, they have a big and meaty offensive line that is adequate enough as a run blocking unit. Now that T.O. doesn’t need to be coddled and thrown to, the Cowboys can focus more on the ground.
• If it comes down to a pissing contest between your franchise QB and your aging, no-as-effective-anymore WR, you have to side with the QB. I think Tony Romo displayed some immaturity last year, and the jury is out as to whether he can win in the playoffs, but I’d rather him be happy than placate Owens if I’m a Cowboys fan.
• Roy Williams does have talent, and the Cowboys dealt a #1 pick for him last year. This allows Williams to step into the #1 role and prove what he can do. It will allow to Cowboys to find out if they have a true #1 receiver to build the offense around, or if they need to move onto plan C next offseason.
• And finally, and more importantly, releasing T.O. will undoubtedly help with locker room harmony and chemistry. Perhaps the Cowboys are getting smarter and Jerry Jones is figuring out what wins football games these days. Putting a bunch of big names on a roster doesn’t do it — creating a team does. T.O. may sometimes get blamed for things that are not his fault, but he has earned that absence of any benefit of the doubt. He’s had problems with every QB he’s ever played with and history has proven that he just can’t stay in one place too long. His welcome had been worn out in Dallas, and it was time for him to go. The Cowboys will be better off because of it.

Another hot topic of conversation on both 1310 The Ticket and Mike & Mike in the Morning as I drove in today was where Terrell Owens might end up now that he is not the teacher’s pet for Jerry Jones any longer. Let’s take a quick trip through the divisions and see what teams could potentially be a fit, keeping these components in mind:

• The team has to have some cap space
• There needs to be an established QB who would command T.O.’s respect and keep him in line
• There needs to be a need at the WR position

.And just for fun, I’ll rate my own thoughts of the likelihood of T.O. ending up somewhere on a 1-10 scale.

(FYI: All cap numbers were taken from WalterFootball.com’s team-by-team offseason reports and may not reflect the most up-to-date numbers. Great site though.)

You can also feel free to skip my a.m. ramblings from this morning and hop on over to PFT’s Anti-TO List. Expectedly, some of my projections below have already proven erroneous.

NFC East:

• New York Giants: They obviously need a WR, and have $11 million in cap space. Considering Tom Coughlin’s history with Bill Parcells though, and the headaches caused by Plaxico Burress last year, there are hurdles. But the Giants have a strong locker room and a laid-back QB in Eli Manning would could get along with T.O. for a year or two. This is a very hard one to handicap. 6 out of 10.
• Washington Redskins: They are up against the cap after the Albert Haynesworth signing and just recently drafted young WRs to go along with Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle El. There is absolutely no reason for the Redskins to look at T.O. In fact, it would be a dumb, stupid, ludicrous move for them to make — which is exactly why it is slightly possible, given Daniel Snyder’s history. 1 out of 10
• Philadelphia Eagles: The position need is there, but no way, no how. Been there, done that. 0 out of 10

NFC North:

• Chicago Bears: This is an interesting one. The Bears don’t have much at receiver beyond Devin Hester and do have some cap space. With the team committing to Kyle Orton, adding another weapon could certainly help him out. I think the fit seems possible, but I just don’t see it. 3 out of 10
• Detroit Lions: No way. They were 0-16 last year and need to rebuild, and Jim Schwartz won’t want anything to do with T.O., especially they go QB with the #1 pick. 0 out of 10.
• Green Bay Packers: WR is already a strength for this team. No chance. 0 out of 10.
• Minnesota Vikings: They have cap space, and a few decent-to-good WRs in Bernard Berrian and Bobby Wade. They just signed a new QB in Sage Rosenfels, but are obviously built to win games on the ground. And Brad Childress was in Philly with T.O. 0 out of 10.

NFC South:

• Atlanta Falcons: Young QB in Matt Ryan and an established #1 WR in Roddy White. No chance. 0 out of 10.
• Carolina Panthers: They need a WR to step in for Muhsin Muhammad, but they want to go young. They wouldn’t replace Muhammad with T.O., since the two are essentially the same game nowadays, but Muhammad doesn’t have the baggage. 0 out of 10.
• New Orleans Saints: They are not in a great cap situation, so probably could not sign T.O. and still sign their rookie FAs. They do love to pass the ball and Terrell Owens would give Drew Brees another solid target, plus T.O. might respect Brees enough to treat him decently for a year or so. I guess it is possible, but highly unliekly. 1 out of 10.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: They certainly have the cap space, but just resigned Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton. Plus, they will have a great chance to get a WR in the first round of the draft. But with Kellen Winslow and Jerramy Stevens already on the team, could they afford another head case? 1 out of 10.

NFC West:

• Arizona Cardinals: If they don’t get Anquan Boldin extended and happy, there would be a void at the WR position. However, they would have Steve Breaston to step right in. Plus, the Cardinals are cheap, and I doubt Kurt Warner wants to deal with T.O.’s whining. 1 out of 10.
• San Francisco 49ers: I cannot imagine Mike Singletary wanting to bring T.O. back to where it all started. There are still question marks for this team at QB, and Singletary showed last year how much patience he has for me-first guys: zero. There is a need at WR, but enough to go for Terrell Owens. 0 out of 10.
• Seattle Seahawks: Maybe, had they not just signed T.J. Houshmandzadeh. No reason to reach for T.O. anymore, especially with the chance to take Michael Crabtree in the draft. They do have a strong QB in Hasselbeck and could still use more WR help, but I don’t really see it. 1 out of 10.
• St. Louis Rams: The need is definitely there, especially with Torry Holt asking to be released. They Rams have an established QB in Marc Bulger who could potentially get along with Terrell Owens. And new head coach Steve Spagnuolo has faced T.O. times a year and will have a good idea if Owens is washed up, or if he has anything left to give. The Rams do have some cap space. This is a possibility. 6 out of 10.

AFC East:

• Buffalo Bills: The Bills have a lot of cap space, but have Lee Evans, Josh Reed, and James Hardy at WR, with plenty of other holes to fill. 0 out of 10.
• Miami Dolphins: Riiight. Bill Parcells and “The Player” back together again? I think not. -6983 out of 10.
• New England: They already have Randy Moss and Wes Welker and will want to bring young guys in to fill their other WR voids. The locker room and QB situation would work, and the Pats have cap space, but I don’t think T.O.’s production justifies the headache anymore. 1 out of 10.
• New York Jets: The need is there, with Laveraneus Coles headed to the Bengals. They are up against the cap though, and still have rookies to sign. Plus, with no established QB, what would keep T.O. in line? 2 out of 10.

AFC North:

• Baltimore Ravens: They need a WR, especially with Derrick Mason getting older, but they will want that WR to be younger. They do have cap space as well. Perhaps the Ravens feel like T.O. could put them over the age and give them a chance to go one step further than last year. Joe Flacco is a young QB, but Ray Lewis and the strong personalities on D could help keep Owens in line. This one is intriguing, but still unlikely I think. 5 out of 10.
• Cincinnati Bengals: They just signed Coles, so the need is not there. They have cap space, but why waste it on Owens? 0 out of 10.
• Cleveland Browns: Especially if they end up trading Braylon Edwards, WR will be a need. And the Browns do have cap space. However, I don’t see T.O. meshing well at with Eric Mangini. 0 out 10.
• Pittsburgh Steelers: No way. They have Holmes and Ward, and I can’t see Mike Tomlin putting up with Owens. 0 out of 10.

AFC South:

• Houston Texans: The cap space is there, and Matt Schaub is an established veteran. However, Andre Johnson is the clear #1, and Kevin Walter had a solid year that year. They could use another WR, and I guess this is possible, but I still can’t really see it happening. 2 out of 10.
• Indianapolis Colts: This one is very intriguing to me. The Colts need 3 WRs for their offense to functional as usual. With Marvin Harrison gone, they need someone to line up opposite Reggie Wayne so Anthony Gonzalez can work the slot. Peyton Manning would obviously demand T.O. respect; but, there is a first time head coach that may not be ready to deal with T.O. And cap space is an issue. I think there are reasons why this could work on the field in the short term, but it is probably not possible. 1 out of 10.
• Jacksonville Jaguars: They basically have nothing at WR. They do, however, have an established QB in David Garrard and enough cap space to make a deal happen. However, with the disharmony that was present in the locker room last year, why would you bring in Terrell Owens? This is only possible because of the immense strength of the need Jacksonville has at WR, but I’d be shocked if they were dumb enough to bring a toxic element into an already toxic locker room. 4 out of 10.
• Tennessee Titans: The Titans always need WRs. They signed Nate Washington and re-signed Justin McCareins, but T.O. would be top threat on the this team. They have $31 million in cap space as of February 8th, and a veteran QB in Kerry Collins who can get the ball down the field. Plus, Jeff Fisher seems like one of the coaches who has enough experience and skins on the wall to keep T.O. in line temporarily. There are a lot of reasons why this is possible, though still not probably. 5 out of 10.

AFC West:

• Denver Broncos: They already have Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal, and I don’t think a young first-time head coach is equipped to deal with Jay Cutler’s bitchiness, Marshall’s immaturity, and T.O.’s ego. 0 out of 10.
• Kansas City Chiefs: On the field, Terrell Owens would be a nice #2 option after Dwayne Bowe. But the Chiefs have a new QB situation and new coaches and management. The cap space is definitely there, but Scott Pioli will want to create a winning climate immediately, and T.O.’s selfishness won’t fit into that. 1 out of 10.
• Oakland Raiders: Need is huge, and this is the Raiders. The cap situation is not good, but still — this is the Raiders. Never underestimate Al Davis’ willingness to do things that make no sense. 6 out of 10.
• San Diego Chargers: Decent cap situation, established QB, so it could work from that perspective in the short term. However, the Chargers have needs needs beyond WR, where they have Vincent Jackson, Chris Chambers, and a core of young guys. Cant see this one. 1 out of 10.

So there you have it. According to my completely unscientific and hastily slapped together analysis, the most likely possible destinations for Terrell Owens are the Raiders, the Giants, and the Rams, with the Ravens, Titans, and Jaguars as secondary possibilities.

I think any of these teams would be making a big mistake, but this is the NFL. Someone will roll the dice on T.O. if the price is right, but I think they’ll be sorry in the end — just like the Cowboys were.

Jay Cutler is Not a Brown, But Is He a Bitch? Denver Radio Host Scott Hastings, and Others, Think So

Clearly I have decided to turn Midwest Sports Fans into JayCutler Sports Fans for one 24-hour sports news cycle. I thought I was done with the topic after my last post, which discussed why the Jay Cutler for Brady Quinn and Shaun Rogers trade rumors were highly unlikely to become reality, but then Deadspin has to go and post something that somehow seems to serve as the perfect cap on Jay Cutler Day here at MSF.

Earlier this afternoon, Deadspin posted a story (via With Leather) that cited an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show by former NBA player and current Denver-area radio personality Scott Hastings. And apparently Scott Hastings is not a real big fan of Jay Cutler, so much so that he went as far to say that Jay Cutler is a “little bitch.”

From the SI.com summary of the Scott Hastings appearance on The Dan Patrick Show:

Jay Cutler lost Hastings’ respect when he claimed his arm is stronger than John Elway’s. This was just a stupid thing to say because Elway is a legend in Denver so saying something like that just angers the fanbase. He calls Cutler an “arrogant little punk” and should wake up to the reality that he’s the QB of an NFL football team and should act like a leader. He also referred to Cutler as a “little bitch.”

Now, obviously the next question is why is the opinion of Scott Hastings even relevant? And why is this story even relevant?

As for the first question, by itself Scott Hastings’ opinion is not that relevant. However, he does echo a similar sentiment about Jay Cutler made by Gene Wojciechowski on ESPN.com yesterday:

Don’t get me wrong — Cutler is a talent, possibly a major talent. His numbers keep tracking upward (4,526 passing yards, 25 touchdowns in ‘08), but so do his turnovers (18 interceptions, including four in Denver’s last three games — all losses) and hissy fits.

And there have been other incidents that call Cutler’s alleged bitchiness and gigantic ego into question, like his strange boast about having a stronger arm than notoriously strong-armed Bronco legend John Elway. Seeing as how Elway is beloved in Denver and a two-time Super Bowl champion, it does seem to suggest a certain level of bitchiness and/or douchebaggery to place yourself not just on the same pedestal, but above, a living legend in whose gigantic footsteps you are ostensibly trying to follow.

And just ask Philip Rivers and the San Diego Chargers what they think of Jay Cutler. (And vice versa.)

As to the second question mentioned above — why is this story relevant? — Cutler’s name has come up in trade rumors with seemingly every team in the NFL over the past few days, most notably (for our audience anyway) with the Cleveland Browns. And I went on record as saying that even though the cap realities made a Cutler for Brady Quinn and Shaun Rogers trade extremely unlikely, that getting Cutler would be a huge coup for the Browns.

Talent and production-wise, this is certainly true. Jay Cutler has proven that he can rack up passing yards, win a decent amount of games, and move the chains. Had Denver’s defense been better over the last few years, he might have made and won a playoff game or two. However, with each new story that comes out about Jay Cutler, his public persona takes hit after hit. (And, truth be told, perhaps The Legend of Jay Cutler grew a bit too much after his torrid start to last season. Otherwise, he has been a pretty pedestrian QB despite obvious physical gifts.)

Cutler whined recently about being involved in trade talks, despite the fact that Peter King reported on Monday that Cutler had actually requested a trade once Mike Shanahan and offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates were no longer in Denver. So what is it Jay? Did you really want to be traded? Or are you just a drama queen who enjoys stirring the pot and being the center of attention?

Either way, I can tell you this: such whining and histrionics would not play well in Cleveland, not one bit. Just ask Braylon Edwards. And it doesn’t look like it is necessarily playing well in Denver either.

So maybe it’s a good thing that the Jay Cutler for Brady Quinn and Shaun Rogers trade rumors have turned out to be exactly just that: rumors; and moreover, rumors that appear to have no future legs because of the salary cap issues such a deal would present. Jay Cutler would give the Browns an immediate upgrade at the QB position in terms of arm strength and experience, but the organization and fans in Cleveland would also have to deal with his egomania and whining, which appears to be quite extensive and well documented.

And one more thing, before you ask why I’m even talking about this on Midwest Sports Fans: remember, Jay Cutler is from Santa Claus, Indiana. So it is well within our jurisdiction here. Unfortunately, Jay Cutler does not seem to have taken on many of the personality traits of his hometown’s namesake. On the contrary, the kid from the town named after Jolly ‘Ol St. Nick is quickly earning a reputation as Whiny ‘Ol Jay Bitch.

The more I think about it, the more I’m starting to come around to the opinion of Scott and many of the commenters over at Waiting For Next Year. We may not know what we have in Brady Quinn, but Jay Cutler may best be left as someone else’s problem.

More Browns Trade Rumors: Braylon Edwards to the Giants for Mathias Kiwanuka

Breaking News 10/7/09: The Browns have traded Braylon Edwards to the New York Jets for two players and two picks.

A few days ago I was informed of a rumor heard on the radio that there could be a potential trade brewing between the Browns and Giants that would send WR Braylon Edwards to the G-Men, ostensibly as a replacement for Plaxico Burress, with the Browns getting DE Mathias Kiwanuka in return.

Not knowing what to think, I did what I usually do in these situations: email Barry McBride at the Orange and Brown Report and see if there was anything to it.

He posted the Braylon Edwards-Mathias Kiwanuka trade rumor and had this to say upon initially hearing about it:

The deal makes sense for both teams on several levels. The Giants would be looking for a credible replacement for WR Plaxico Burress, and are keeping Kiwanuka as a defensive end in a three-man rotation after he switched from linebacker last year.

The 6’5”, 265 Kiwanuka is a classic tweener would like like an interesting option for the Browns manning an outside linebacker spot in the 3-4 defense. Kiwi successfully made the transition from a Boston College defensive end to a linebacker with the Giants, but was moved back as a defensive end following a season-ending injury to Osi Umenyiora.

Also of interest from Cleveland perspective is that Kiwanuka is under contract for two more years. Braylon Edwards can be a free agent after this season.

Kiwi as another OLB bookend with Crabtree perhaps available in the draft? Hmmm… count me in as interested.

The next day, after doing some digging, Barry posted about the Braylon Edwards-Mathias Kiwanuka trade rumor again, this time saying (half seriously and half tongue-in-cheek):

I love this Kiwi-Edwards rumor.

It’s just logical enough to be believable. Infuriatingly, it seems to make sense on some level for both clubs.

Sensing this, the Giants have done nothing but have done their best to torment us with their subsequent moves over the last few days. They went ahead and signed DT Rocky Bernard, and OLB Michael Boley, and DE Chris Canty, all four or five-star defenders according to our rankings.

Cool, cool. They got to have no more room at the inn for Kiwi now, right?

Right?

It all makes sense.

Only problem is that I reached out to a NY Giants beat writer, who told me that he got an email from one of the organization’s higher-ups saying that there’s absolutely nothing to it.

…

Pro Football Talk says that the Bucs were sworn to secrecy about K2 (other than that annoying chatter about a Winslow deal on the OBR prior to the trade), and maybe this front office guy is just lying to us.

In fact, IF they were talking about deal, they would DENY it, which means that by DENYING IT, they PROVE it’s absolutely true. The logic is flawless!

So, not a whole lot of hard parts to grab onto here. With Braylon Edwards heading into the final year of his contract, and a new regime at the helm in Berea, it is no secret that Eric Mangini and George Kokinis would like to sign Braylon to a contract extension — assuming Braylon is on board with the philosophies of the new regime and, you know, remembers where he misplaced his hands. However, Mangini and Kokins will also no doubt want to know either way whether Braylon Edwards can be counted on moving forward as they attempt to build a new foundation for success in Cleveland.

So if they can’t reach a contract extension…

Anyway, yesterday I obviously became enthralled with the basically unsubstantiated rumor that started making the rounds that the Browns and Broncos were discussing a trade of Jay Cutler and a 3rd round pick for Brady Quinn and Shaun Rogers. You know how the sports news cycle moves these days. It was only about 36 hours old, but the delicious conjecture of Braylon Edwards for Mathias Kiwanuka was already old news, and there wasn’t really anything else to go on.

Until this morning…kind of.

Over a ProFootballTalk, Mike Florio discusses the plethora of defensive lineman being assembled in New York and ends his post with an interesting, though non-specific, bit of his own conjecture:

As Thornton points out, the Giants now have nine defensive linemen under contract: tackles Fred Robbins, Barry Cofield, Barry Jay Alford, and Bernard, ends Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, and Dave Tollefson, and tackle-end Canty.

…

One possibility would be to move Kiwanuka back to linebacker. However, coach Tom Coughlin said at the Scouting Combine that Kiwanuka will be staying put.

Or maybe someone is getting traded. Maybe for a receiver. You know, a good one. A guy who commands double coverage, like the guy who blew a double hole in his leg with a single bullet last November.

I don’t know about you — and perhaps I’m reading too much into it — but I cannot think of too many other wide receivers rumored to be on the trading block that would fit the bill more perfectly as a replacement for Plaxico Burress than Braylon Edwards. And as anyone who has watched the Browns in recent years knows, one of the team’s biggest deficiencies has been its inability to consistently rush the passer. Slapping Mathias Kiwanuka on the other side of the talented and athletic, but highly inconsistent, Kamerion Wimbley would certainly upgrade the Browns’ pass rush.

Update — 3/3 10:55 am: I forgot that Florio addressed the Edwards rumors two days ago. The headline of the post says it all: No Truth to Braylon Trade Rumors — Yet. He went on to say:

We’ve received multiple inquiries over the past couple of days regarding the possibility that the Cleveland Browns are shopping receiver Braylon Edwards.

A source with knowledge of the situation predicts with a high degree of confidence that Edwards isn’t on the market, and won’t be traded this year.

That said, who would have imagined three days ago that tight end Kellen Winslow would be shipped to Tampa?

Read the rest of the first PFT post on the Braylon Edwards trade rumors from 3/1.

So, like the Cutler-to-the-Browns rumors, take this one about Braylon Edwards for Mathias Kiwanuka for what it is: informed speculation and conjecture. But I have to say that a trade of Braylon Edwards for Mathias Kiwanuka, assuming Kiwanuka is back to full health with no lingering issues from last season, is an intriguing option, especially with Michael Crabtree potentially sitting there at the #5 slot in the upcoming draft to fill the void of talented, diva-eque, productive-but-not-overly-fast #1 WR.

(Editor’s Note: I misspoke in the previous sentence and got Kiwanuka mixed up with Braylon’s 5 Hour Energy buddy Osi Umenyiora, who was injured last season. Kiwanuka was injured the year before, when the Giants won the Super Bowl. Last year, Mathias Kiwanuka had 8 sacks and 51 tackles.)

The fun part about these Browns trade rumors is that we know we will get almost nothing concrete or substantial to go on from inside Cleveland. The new regime will be as tight-lipped as they come, and I have no problem with that at all. In fact, in this day and age of the NFL, I think it’s probably the right way to go — as long as they understand the need to get in front of certain rumors if and when they do slip out. (And we saw from the Kellen Winslow trade to the Bucs, when deals do happen involving the Browns, they will likely come out of nowhere.) But with so little “hard” info to go on, something will have to fill the void as we patiently await next season.

And there is nothing more intriguing than seemingly legit trade rumors involving Braylon Edwards, Brady Quinn, and Shaun Rogers — three of the most significant current players on the roster.

Eric Mangini proved right away that he wanted to create a new era of Browns football, a new identity for the organization, and distance himself from the last decade of on-field and off-field struggles. Dealing three of the key players involved in last season’s collapse, after the surprise of 2007 — not that it was all their fault, especially in the case of Rogers, who was actually great — would certainly be one way to start with a clean slate.

UPDATE 3/23: There have been a few updates on the Braylon Edwards trade front since we posted this item.  Since it is still driving significant traffic, I figured I would update the post with the latest.  The OBR reported yesterday that the Browns and Giants have, in fact, discussed a Braylon Edwards trade.  However, Mathias Kiwanuka was apparently never in the mix.  The purported discusssion centered on Braylon Edwards to the Giants for a couple of draft picks plus another WR.  The Browns wanted Steve Smith while the Giants were only willing to part with Domenik Hixon or Mario Manningham.  Nothing has obviously gone further, but this apparently is not going away:

OBR: Latest on Braylon Edwards-to-Giants Trade Rumors

So what do you think?

Which of the three prominent Browns players who have been involved in recent trade speculation do you think is LEAST likely to be on the team in 2009?

• I think all three of them will be back
• For the love of God, can we just stop with all of the rumors and just wait to see what actually happens???
• Brady Quinn
• Braylon Edwards
• Shaun Rogers

View Results

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With all of the rumors floating around right now, what do you think will actually happen? What do you want to happen? The comments are open…let the speculation fly.

Braylon Edwards photo courtesy of AP Photo/Tony Dejak

Mathias Kiwanuka photo courtesy of Evan Pinkus/WireImage.com