Steelers 2012 Draft

With the 2012 NFL Rookie Draft just a little bit over a week away, today I am going to look at all seven rounds of the Steelers upcoming draft.

The Needs


Inside Linebacker: In the offseason, the Steelers had to make some cuts to get under the salary cap. One of those cuts were veteran inside linebacker James Farrior. Right now the two starting inside linebackers are Lawrence Timmons and Larry Foote. Timmons is an integral part of the defense, but I am not comfortable having Foote starting long-term.

Offensive Line: The Steelers have spent just one first round pick on an offensive lineman over the years, and that was on center Maurkice Pouncey. I would be fine with an offensive lineman in the first round, but if they don't take one in the first I would like to see them take one in the second if available. They could use a guard and/or a tackle.

Cornerback: Over the offseason, the Steelers allowed William Gay to leave. They didn't really even show him any interest from the looks of it. Gay played very well last year and was a starter. Ike Taylor is obviously going to be one starting corner. At the moment the other starter corner looks like it will come from one of the following - Cortez Allen, Curtis Brown, Walter McFadden, Antonio Smith, or Keenan Lewis (who is a Restricted Free Agent at the moment).

Running Back: While not a huge need, I expect the Steelers to take a RB somewhere in the middle to late rounds. Rashard Mendenhall is likely going to start the season on the Physically Unable to Play (PUP) list due to tearing his ACL in the regular season finale against the Browns last season. So that makes our starting running back Isaac Redman (who is an Exclusive Right Free Agent). Behind him are a bunch of backs that have little to no NFL experience (Baron Batch, John Clay, Jonathon Dwyer, Will Johnson, Jamie McCoy, and Chad Spann). I expect most of those guys to either be cut or be placed on the practice squad. I wouldn't mind seeing the Steelers take a fast guy who would be a change-of-pace back to Redman's power running style.

Nose Tackle: It's looking like Casey Hampton might not be ready to start the season, and the NT position is the anchor of the Steelers 3-4 defensive scheme. Even if Hampton is ready for the start of the season, he's getting up there in age and won't be around much longer. The Steelers need to take a young NT who can learn from and eventually take over for Big Snack when he's gone. If Hampton can't start the season, it looks like Steve McClendon would play the NT position, but I wouldn't want him being Hampton's long-term replacement.

Possible NFL Draft Picks


Round One: Dont'a Hightower, ILB/Alabama - This would fill the immediate need for a starting ILB next to Lawrence Timmons. While he might not start right away, I think he would eventually replace Foote during the season.

Other Options: Cordy Glenn, OT-OG/Georgia; Stephon Gilmore, CB/South Carolina; Janoris Jenkins, CB/North Alabama; Kevin Zeitler, OG/Wisconsin; Peter Konz, OC-OG/Wisconsin

Round Two: Amini Silatolu, OG/Midwestern State - The Steelers need a guard with their two starting options looking like Ramon Foster and Doug Legursky at this moment. Silatolu would bring better depth to the line and compete for a starting guard spot right off the bat.

Round Three: Alameda Ta'amu, DT/Washington - I think Ta'amu would be the perfect fit here if he's available. I could also see the Steelers trading up in the round to get him. He's the big NT that is needed in the middle of the defensive line in the 3-4 that the Steelers run. The Steelers would have Hampton's successor and he would compete with McClendon to start at the beginning of the season of Hampton isn't able to.

Round Four: Leonard Johnson, CB/Iowa State - He probably wouldn't see a lot of playing time outside of special teams, but he'd be there to groom and for depth.

Round Five: B.J. Coleman, QB/UT-Chattanooga - The Steelers current backup quartervacks are Jerrod Johnson and Troy Smith. I see them taking Coleman and grooming him to become the #2 quarterback in a season or two.

Round Six: Ryan Miller, OG/Colorado - The offensive line needs help, so another interior offensive lineman for depth and to maybe one day even be a starter.

Round Seven: Frank Alexander, DE/Oklahoma - Can never have enough depth on the defensive line.

Round Seven (compensatory): Carson Wiggs, K/Purdue - Last year Shaun Suisham was a pretty iffy kicker. He misses some kicks that he damn sure should have made. Drafting Wiggs might not unseat Suisham, but he'd be given a chance to win the job in training camp.

Round Seven (compensatory): Adonis Thomas, RB/Toledo - This guy is a speed back who's shifty and a an great athlete. He's got excellent burst and can catch the ball out of the backfield.

Round Seven (compensatory): Neiko Thorpe, FS/Auburn - This guy is fast and is a very good athlete. He can tackle and he has good ball skills. Also, the last name doesn't hurt either. Can be an excellent special teamer.

Now don't hold me to these picks. The Steelers might trade a pick to move up in a round, trade a pick and move back in a round...trade a pick for a player already on a team. Maybe the guy won't be available when the Steelers pick. These are just my best guesses for the Steelers picks.

2012 Draft - AFC North

Here I am going to focus on the current draft needs and my projected picks for the AFC North in the first two rounds of the 2012 NFL Draft. I am going to start with the team with the highest draft pick and work my way down to the lowest.

Cleveland Browns
Needs: Wide receiver, running back, offensive guard, offensive tackle, cornerback,

The Browns offense under Pat Shurmer is pass-oriented, but they don't have a legit #1 receiver to throw the ball to. They also need a corner across from Joe Haden because Sheldon Brown isn't a reliable starter anymore. They need help at both guard positions and right tackle. I also don't trust Montario Hardesty to stay healthy and effective for 16 games.

First round pick, #4 Overall: Morris Claiborne, CB LSU - I don't think that the Browns feel that Justin Blackmon fits what they want to do on offense, and taking a running back this high also doesn't fit their offensive philosophy. Last season, the other three teams in their division made the playoffs. They get to face Ben Roethlisberger, Joe Flacco, and Andy Dalton twice a season at quarterback. Claiborne makes sense as he would bolster the pass defense and possibly give the Browns two shutdown corners. In a league so predicated on the pass, being able to stop it is a huge advantage.

First round pick, #22 overall: Kendall Wright, WR Baylor - This guy is fast. And while I personally think that Justin Blackmon would fit their offense just fine, I don't think the Browns feel the same way. Wright can blow the top off of a defense with his speed, and he can also use that speed to gain yards after the catch on shorter routes. I think the Browns plan on seeing if Colt McCoy can be the quarterback to lead the Browns to the playoffs in the near future this season, but he needs a receiver that is a #1 talent, something the Browns don't currently have on their roster. Wright would give them that caliber of a receiver, so this is a sink-or-swim year for McCoy. If he doesn't show a good amount of improvement this season with Wright at receiver, the Browns will be in the market to replace him next offseason.

Second round pick, #37 overall: Amini Silatolu, OG Midwestern State - The Browns currently have Jason Pinkston and Shawn Lauvao slated to play their two guard positions. If they go into the season without bolstering at least one of those two positions, they might get Colt McCoy killed. Silatolu is the best guard available and would be better at one of the two guard positions.

So in the first two rounds the Browns take care of cornerback, wide receiver, and offensive guard. I think that's a pretty good first two rounds for a team with as many holes as the Browns have.

Cincinnati Bengals
Needs: Cornerback, offensive guard, running back

The Bengals stud cornerback Leon Hall might not be available to start the season with an Achilles injury and Nate Clements is getting old and inconsistent. They could use an upgrade at offensive guard to help the run game and protect quarterback Andy Dalton. They also could use another running back, BenJarvus Green-Ellis isn't a long-term answer at the position.

First round pick, #17 overall: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB Alabama - With Hall recovering from an Achilles injury, Nate Clements getting older, and Adam "Pacman" Jones just not being good...the Bengals could use Kirkpatrick to start the season on Hall's stead and then take over for Clements once Hall comes back from his injury. He does have some character concerns, but the Bengals don't care much about character if the player has talent.

First round, #21 overall: Kevin Zeitler, OG Wisconsin: The best pure guard available, the Bengals find a guy to open holes for their running backs and protect Andy Dalton. Zeitler comes from a program known for their running game, and Zeitler was a big part of that. He's a great pick for the Bengals at this point in the first round.

Second round, #53 overall: Lamar Miller, RB Miami: Miller is a real steal this deep into the second round. Yes, the Bengals signed BenJarvus Green-Ellis but he doesn't have the home run ability that Miller has. Any time that you give this guy the ball, he can take it to the house. He's could possibly even win the starting job in training camp with some long runs in the preseason. He also doesn't need 20+ carries to get going, allowing the Bengals to skew their offense more towards the passing game if they'd like to.

In the first two rounds the Bengals take care of their biggest needs, which should make them a threat for the division crown and/or a wild card spot again this season.

Pittsburgh Steelers
Needs: Offensive guard, inside linebacker, defensive tackle, cornerback 


The offensive line is still not all that good. They aren't the worst offensive line in the league, but Ben Roethlisberger makes them look a whole lot better than they actually are. Ben just turned 30 years old last month, he can't constantly play with injuries like he has for most of his career. They need to protect him better. The Steelers also need an inside linebacker to replace James Farrior who was a salary cap cut. They also lost William Gay in free agency, though they didn't really seem all that interested in resigning him...a later round corner to develop for depth is needed.


First round, #24 overall: Dont'a Hightower, ILB Alabama - This guy was born to play linebacker for the Black & Gold. He could even possibly start this season for the Steelers, because I believe he is already that much better than Larry Foote who is currently penciled in to play the position manned by Farrior since 2002. Last season, the Steelers gave up 4.0 yards a carry and finished 8th in rushing defense which isn't bad but below the standard that the Steelers have set for themselves. They gave up just under 100 yards a game and 7 rushing touchdowns in the regular season, which is just unacceptable in my opinion. This is why Hightower has to be the Steelers first round pick.


Second round, #56 overall: Kelechi Osemele, OG Iowa State - The Steelers released Chris Kemoeatu this offseason on what was not just a salary cap cut...but getting rid of a player who wasn't mentally strong enough to be a starter in the NFL. Too many dumb penalties at the worst possible times, especially unnecessary roughness penalties because his mean streak was just too long. He was benched twice for poor play and penalties in 2011. So now the Steelers two guards are Doug Legursky and Ramon Foster. Legursky is also the backup center, so if Pouncey were to be hurt again this season, we'd be very thin at guard. Osemele would compete for a starting spot at the position and bolster the depth of the interior line. 


The Steelers would take care of their two biggest needs in the first two rounds. If the Steelers don't take a guard in the second round, I can see them taking a nose tackle (even if it's a bit of a reach). Casey Hampton is coming off of a torn ACL and could start the season on the Physically Unable to Play List (PUP List).


Baltimore Ravens
Needs: offensive guard, center, inside linebacker, outside linebacker


The Ravens were considered free agent losers as players left the team and they failed to sign players to replace them. Their biggest loss was Ben Grubbs, their offensive guard. He went to New Orleans and the Ravens failed to sign a replacement for him. They also have to get running back Ray Rice under a long-term deal, he's currently franchise tagged by the team. Quarterback Joe Flacco also wants a long-term deal. The Ravens have said it's a priority to sign both players long-term not only to keep them, but to get them more salary cap space. They also could use a backup center/center of the future with Matt Birk being on the cusp of retirement. And also, an inside linebacker for depth and possibly to become Ray Lewis' replacement because he can't keep playing forever. They could also use depth at outside linebacker and someone to push Paul Kruger for playing time.

First round, #29 overall: Peter Konz, C Wisconsin - He could play guard this season learning from one of the best in the game, Matt Birk. Then he could take over for Birk when he retires, and be the immediate backup at center in case Birk were to get injured during the season. It really fills two needs with one pick. The Ravens could use a later pick on a guard for depth.

Second round, #60 overall: Vinny Curry, OLB Marshall - Their starter from last season Jarret Johnson, left in free agency for the San Diego Chargers. He had only 40 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Paul Kruger couldn't beat him out for the starting job, so the Ravens might look for depth and someone to push Kruger. Vinny Curry could be that guy. Another pass rusher across from Terrell Suggs would make the Ravens defense that much more fierce. They drafted Sergio Kindle to do this in 2010, but they he fell down some steps and fractured his skull. In two seasons he's only played in two games and hasn't recorded a statistic.

The Ravens fix their guard/center issue with one pick and then bolster their pass rush with their second round pick. Not bad for the defending AFC North Champs.

2012 NFL Mock Draft - Free Agency Edition

Okay, for the most part, free agency is done with. All the big names have been signed, resigned, or franchised. Now, this has shook up the draft somewhat because some of these signings means a team won't be looking to fix certain areas in the first round of the draft, and instead draft for depth later in the draft. The free agent signings that happen now will mostly be for depth.

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB Stanford - The Colts are rebuilding, and they have the first overall pick. One again, I have them drafting Andrew Luck. He's in the mold of Peyton Manning as a pocket passer, and the Colts' owner loved Manning. Luck can also move around better than Manning could, so he's not going to be a statue in the pocket. 
2. Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, QB Baylor - You don't give up the picks Washington did to move up to the second overall pick and take anyone other than a quarterback. With Luck going to the Colts, that means the Redskins get to select RGIII who's skills seem to fit perfectly into Shannahan's offense. And with them grabbing two receivers in free agency, though neither might end up a #1 receiver, they give him better weapons than what he would have had in Washington.
3. Minnesota Vikings: Mat Kalil, OT USC - Last year the Vikings took Christian Ponder, a QB out of Florida State at pick number twelve. If they want him to develop into a franchise quarterback and not be a wasted pick, they need to protect him. If they take Kalil, and it's almost a lock that they do, then his blind side will be protected for the next decade.
4. Cleveland Browns: Morris Claiborne, CB LSU - The Browns have a lot of needs on offense, but in the end they go defense with their first pick of the draft. I don't think they want to take Texas A&M QB Ryan Tannehill this high, I don't think they like WR Justin Blackmon for the offense they run, and taking a RB this high doesn't make sense for them since they don't have a run-oriented offense. Claiborne makes the most sense because they play three playoff teams from last season twice a season...and the quarterbacks they face in those games are Ben Roethlisberger, Joe Flacco, and Andy Dalton. To make the playoffs, you have to win in your division. Taking Claiborne helps shore up their pass defense by giving the Browns two potential shutdown corners to help shut down opponent's passing games.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Trent Richardson, RB Alabama - The first member of the National Champions off the board is their bell cow running back Trent Richardson, the only player to score a touchdown in the National Championship Game. Buccaneers head coach Greg Schiano has said that the number one priority on offense is protecting the football. If you can't protect the ball, you won't be getting touches. LaGarrett Blount has talent as a RB, but he has butterfingers. He fumbled five times last season, losing three of them. Richardson had just one fumble in his entire college career playing in the best conference in the country. He's also more explosive, just as powerful, faster, and a much better receiver out of the backfield than Blount. With Claiborne gone, this is the only choice for the Buccaneers.
6. St. Louis Rams: Justin Blackmon, WR Oklahoma State - The Rams need offensive weapons for Sam Bradford and the Rams to be successful. Blackmon is the best receiver in this draft, and can be the go to guy Bradford needs. The Rams have a new head coach in Jeff Fisher, and I don't think he's working on a five-year plan, hence the fleecing of the Redskins so they can trade up to the #2 overall pick.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Riley Reiff, OT Iowa - The Jaguars have a lot of holes, especially on offense, but if they have any chance of giving last year's first round pick, Blaine Gabbert a chance to be successful, they need to protect him. If they draft Reiff, there are two things they can do. First, they can play him at LT and move Eugene Monroe over to RT...or leave Monroe at LT and play Reiff to RT. Either way, they upgrade the tackle position and buy Gabbert better protection in the pocket. They can always go WR in the second round to get him a receiver to throw to.
8. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB Texas A&M - Do I believe that Tannehill should go this high? No, not at all. But I think he will because of the premium on quarterbacks and because of the fact that the Dolphins whiffed on Peyton Manning, Matt Flynn, and Alex Smith met with them but had no actual interest in signing with them. They haven't had a "franchise quarterback" since Dan Marino retired after the 1999 season. Nobody wants to come and play in Miami because if owner Stephen Ross, and there is no guarantee that they'll be picking high enough in the draft to take one of the top quarterbacks next year either. So if they want a quarterback in the first round, they have to take Tannehill.
9. Carolina Panthers: Dontari Poe, DT Memphis - Poe was a workout warrior at the combine and showed that he's much more than a big body. The Panthers have needs on the defensive line and at corner, but I don't think that you can justify taking any of the other corners this high. Poe would not only stuff the run, he can help the pass rush by bringing on double teams and collapsing the pocket. There might be a corner available for them in the second round.
10. Buffalo Bills: Jonathon Martin, OT Stanford - I have had the Bills taking a pass rusher here, but with the signing of Mario Williams, I don't see that as the pick they make here. If they do take a pass rusher in this draft, it will be later for depth. However, the Bills did give quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick a big contract last season. If they don't resign Demetrius Bell, they will need to draft Martin to keep Fitzpatrick protected. Even of they do resign Bell, I can see them making this pick because Martin would be a franchise left tackle for the next ten plus years.
11. Kansas City Chiefs: David DeCastro, OG Stanford - A guard probably shouldn't go this high, but DeCastro is the best prospect at this position in years. The Chiefs have a big need at the position on their offensive line. New head coach Romeo Crennel is going to want to run the football with Jamaal Charles and Peyton Hillis, not to mention protect Matt Cassel. 
12. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Floyd, WR Notre Dame - The Seahawks signed Matt Flynn to a three year contract in free agency. Sydney Rice was a disappointment last season, but pairing Floyd with his former college teammate Golden Tate could bring big play potential to the passing game to go along with the strong running of Marshawn Lynch. 
13. Arizona Cardinals: Luke Kuechly, ILB Boston College - With DeCastro to the Chiefs and no other guard prospect really worthy of this pick, the Cardinals take Kuechly to fix their problem at inside linebacker. This would make last year's big free agent signing Stewart Bradley a cap casualty, and it's not that big of a deal since he barely played last season. Kuechly would help fix a defense that didn't play very well for most of last season.
14. Dallas Cowboys: Quinton Couples, DE/OLB North Carolina - The Cowboys need to find a pass rusher opposite of DeMarcus Ware, and this pick could be that guy. Anthony Spencer did get the franchise tag, but they could rescind the tag if they draft Couples or let him sit behind Spencer for a season to learn the system in Dallas and just set him loose in all-out blitz situations. 
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Michael Brockers, DT LSU - With the Eagles trading for DeMeco Ryans, they are out of the market for a starting MLB. They still need help on the defensive line though, so I see them taking Brockers to help sure up the inside of the line and take on blockers so Ryans can make tackles sideline-to-sideline. 
16. New York Jets: Courtney Upshaw, DE/OLB Alabama - Rex Ryan has to call way too many blitzes to get pressure on the other team's quarterback, this is why I see Upshaw as the only pick the Jets can make here. There isn't an RB worth taking for Ryan'x ground-and-pound offense, and that's really not their biggest need either. If Ryan can get a guy who can get after the QB on a consistent basis, his defense would be loads better against the pass.
17. Cincinnati Bengals: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB Alabama - Leon Hall won't be ready to start the season due to an Achillies injury and Nate Clements is past thirty (he's 32 in December) and was an inconsistent player last season. Kirkpatrick can start for Hall until he comes back from injury and then he can start over Clements, who will be a free agent after this season anyhow. And while there are character concerns, the Bengals don't care about character.
18. San Diego Chargers: Whitney Mercilus, DE/OLB Illinois - What was once a strength of the Chargers defense has become a weakness. No Chargers defensive player had more than four sacks last season. The Chargers finished 23rd overall in the NFL last season in the quarterback sacks category with 32. Now with Peyton Manning in the division, pass defense is ever more important and if they can disrupt Manning, it will help their chances tremendously with winning the division.
19. Chicago Bears: Cordy Glenn, OG Georgia - Wide receiver is no longer nearly as big of a need for the Bears since they traded two third rounders for play making receiver Brandon Marshall, who was Cutler's go to receiver in Denver when they both had some of their best seasons. Now to make sure that the connection can be there again, they must protect Cutler better...and this pick would open up the running lanes more for Matt Forte and the newly acquired Michael Bush. They can take a receiver in the second round if one is available to eventually be the #2 receiver.
20. Tennessee Titans: Fletcher Cox, DT Mississippi State - The Titans signed Kamerion Wimbley to be a pass rushing defensive end/linebacker for them, but they still need more help on the offensive line. Fletcher Cox would be an excellent fit on the interior of the Titans line. 
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Kevin Zeitler, OG Wisconsin - The Bengals need help at guard, and Zeitler is the best offensive guard available. The Bengals signed BenJarvus Green-Ellis to replace Cedric Benson at running back, and bringing Zeitler in would be a great move to help open holes for Green-Ellis to run through. He would also help protect Andy Dalton so he can hook up for long bombs with A.J. Green.
22. Cleveland Browns: Kendall Wright, WR Baylor - They failed to trade up to take the quarterback from Baylor, but the wide receiver from the school falls to them here. It looks like the Browns are sticking with Colt McCoy this season, and if they want to see if he indeed can be a franchise quarterback, they need to get him a legit receiver to throw the ball to. Wright can open up the top of a defense with his speed, and he can also run the shorter routes and then use his speed to gain yards after the catch in the West Coast Offense. If McCoy doesn't show that he's a franchise quarterback with a legit receiver this season, the Browns will be in the market for a quarterback next offseason.
23. Detroit Lions: Janoris Jenkins, CB North Alabama - After being kicked out of Florida, he had nowhere to turn but North Alabama to rehab his image and show that he can still play. It looks like the problems that plagued him at Florida are behind him, and the Lions need a corner to help shut down one side of the field. Their offense is up and running just fine, but the defense needs help...especially in a division with Aaron Rodgers and Jay Cutler at quarterback.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont'a Hightower, ILB Alabama - The Steelers recently cut ILB James Farrior in a salary cap move and don't really have anyone reliable behind him to take over. Right now the starter pegged in his place is Larry Foote, who wasn't very impressive in a reserve role last season. Hightower played in the 3-4 defense at Alabama and would be an excellent pick. He could possibly start at the ILB position as early as game one this season.
25. Denver Broncos: Devon Still, DT Penn State - The Broncos have some options at wide receiver already and Peyton Manning at quarterback will make most receivers look better than they actually are. They could always take a receiver in a later round to develop. However, they needed another defensive tackle before Brodrick Bunkley signed with the Saints. Now they are really in the market for an interior defensive lineman, and Devon Still is the best available. 
26. Houston Texans: Zach Brown, OLB North Carolina - The Texans made the playoffs on the strength of their defense last season after Matt Schuab went down with an injury followed immediately by backup QB Matt Leinart. They did it without Mario Williams who was injured after just a handful of games. Williams left as a free agent to the Buffalo Bills, and the Texans can upgrade Brooks Reed at outside linebacker. Zach Brown would upgrade their pass rush...and the rest of their division has first round picks that have been used on quarterbacks in 2012 or 2011.
27. New England Patriots: Jerel Worthy, DT Michigan State - The Patriots had one of the worst defenses in the NFL last season. A couple seasons ago they spent a second round pick on Ron Brace, but he's been a disappointment. Last season they started with Albert Haynesworth next to Vince Wilfork, but he showed to be the same guy he was with the Redskins and was released. Worthy has a nasty streak that would bring an attitude to the offensive line, and he could also play DE in 3-4 looks because the Patriots do sometimes switch to that look in a hybrid defense.
28. Green Bay Packers: Stephon Gilmore, CB South Carolina - The Packers currently have Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams as their starting corners. Woodson is going to turn 36 during the 2012 season, and I don't see him playing at a high level too much longer. Eventually, age catches up to everyone. Gilmore fits Green Bay's defensive system very well and could sit and learn behind Woodson (a future Hall of Famer in my opinion). Playing in a division with the Lions and the Bears who both have very, very good quarterbacks...you can never have too many good corners.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Peter Konz, C Wisconsin - The Ravens lost Ben Grubbs at guard and couldn't sign his replacement in free agency. Drafting Konz would be a great move because he could start at guard this season and then move to center after Matt Birk retires, which is something he considered doing after last season. It would immediately fill a hole this season and fill a hole in the future.
30. San Francisco 49ers: Alfonzo Denard, CB Nebraska- The 49ers have one of the best defenses in the NFL, but if they do have a weakness it's at corner. Carlos Rogers is a good corner, but Tarell Brown doesn't really impress me. I can see the 49ers taking Denard here to help bolster their defensive secondary, especially with the upgrades I have the Seahawks and Rams making at receiver in this draft.  
31. New England Patriots: Mark Barron, SS Alabama - The Patiots upgraded their front seven earlier when they took Jerel Worthy...now they upgrade their defensive backfield with strong safety Mark Barron. Right now their starter at the position is Steve Gregory. Who? They need to fix their defense if they want to actually win another Super Bowl, they are losers in the last two that they have played in.
32. New York Giants: Coby Fleener, TE Stanford - Jake Ballard tore his ACL in the Super Bowl, and while he played well last season he's a better fit as a second tight end in two tight end sets. He's got the size to be a great redzone target for Eli Manning, and he can also block in the run game. The Giants could use a lot of two tight end sets utilizing Fleener and either Martellius Bennet or Ballard. 

Hines Ward - Forever a Steeler

Today is March, 20 2012. Today is also the day that Hines Ward called it a career. 

“Today I came back to Pittsburgh to grant Steelers Nation its one last request. Today, I am officially retiring as a Pittsburgh Steeler.” - Hines Ward

Just a few short weeks ago, Hines Ward was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He said that he got some interest from other teams, but never seriously spoke with any because it just would not be the same as playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

And I agree, it wouldn't be the same to see him wearing #86 in different colors that the Steelers' Black & Gold.

In the back of the room were former teammates James Harrison, Aaron Smith, Brett Keisel, and Jerome Bettis. In 2005, after the Steelers lost the AFC Championship Game, a teary eyed Ward spoke to the media expressing his hopes that Jerome Bettis would not retire but come back for one final go-around for a chance to win that elusive Super Bowl ring. Bettis indeed came back, and the Steelers won Super Bowl XL. Hines Ward won Super Bowl MVP.

Hines Ward was the 14th wide receiver taken in the 1998 NFL Rookie Draft. The Steelers chose Georgia's jack-of-all-trades wide receiver in the third round, the 98th overall pick. He ended his career as the Steelers leader in receptions (1,000), receiving yards (12,083), and receiving touchdowns (85). Not bad for a third round pick that played quarterback, running back, and wide receiver in college.

He was also a vicious blocker he laid out other team's players if given the chance. The NFL instituted a rule on blindside blocks that was nicknamed the "Hines Ward Rule" because of a blindside block he laid on Bengal's linebacker Keith Rivers that left him with a broken jaw. In a 2008 game against the Ravens, there was supposedly a bounty on his head by Baltimore players to take him out of the game. This was due to the blocks Ward had laid on their players in the past. It's safe to say that if you're head wasn't on a swivel, Ward would make sure to try to knock your head off.

He also wasn't what has become your typical diva wide receiver. He came to work every day to play hard and tough. He played with the mentality of a linebacker. I don't ever remember him complaining about not getting enough touches like some other receivers. Ward also played most of his career in a run-oriented offense.

In the end, Hines Ward was the epitome of what it meant to be a Pittsburgh Steeler. And now, he can say he will always be remembered as one. It can be said that he played for just one team his entire career, and that's something that is rarely said about players these days. Steelers Nation loves Hines Ward, and he loves us back. It's a unique bond that Steelers players have with the fans. And now we can say that the relationship was never broken.

I can't wait to be sitting on the field in Canton, OH in a few years as Hines Ward is inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, wearing my black #86 jersey and waving my yellow Terrible Towel.

Hines Ward, forever a Steeler.

With the receiver signings in FA, what about Mike Wallace?

There has been a lot of movement with contracts for wide receivers the past couple of days since the league year opened.

• Desean Jackson, Eagles: 5-years, $48.5M
• Pierre Garcon, Redskins: 5 years, $42.5M
• Josh Morgan, Redskins: 2-years, $12M approx.
• Vincent Jackson, Buccaneers: 5-years, $56M ($26M guaranteed)
• Calvin Johnson, Lions: 8-years, $130.5M ($53M guaranteed)

That is a lot of money for players that don't touch the football every single play. Calvin Johnson received franchise quarterback money, but in my opinion, he has earned it with his play and professionalism.

So this is going to set the market for biggest Steelers' Restricted Free Agent, Mike Wallace.

Wallace is better than Desean Jackson, Pierre Garcon, and Josh Morgan. He's not quite at Vincent Jackson's level and the only other receiver in the league near Calvin Johnson's level would be Larry Fitzgerald. He is much better than Desean Jackson, Pierre Garcon, and Josh Morgan.

So I would say that he's going to want more money than what Desean Jackson received, but he's going to get less than Vincent Jackson. I would say he's looking for a contract in the range of 5-years and $52-54M.

Right now, the only offer Mike Wallace has received is the Steelers' first round tender. Any team can offer him a contract tender, and the Steelers would have five days to match it. If they do, he stays a Steeler. If the Steelers choose to not match the offer, they would receive the first round pick of the team that signs him as compensation because they gave him the highest tender possible. Also, he is only on the market for two weeks and if nobody offers him a tender in those two weeks he goes back to the Steelers on the one-year tender he received from them.

For another team's tender to mean anything, Wallace must sign it. If he doesn't, the Steelers don't have to match it. He could take the numbers to the Steelers and they could use those numbers to work out a long-term deal with Wallace. This is one thing I feel the Steelers have asked him to do before signing any tender from another team, this way they can load the money in a way that cap friendly to them instead of possibly letting him walk on a front-loaded deal that they can't match due to the salary cap.

At the moment, no news is good news on the Wallace front. With all this action, the price might be too high for other team's to give up. A big money contract and giving up their first round draft pick? That's a lot to give up for one player, especially a guy that was a third round draft pick a few years ago. Why give up the boatload of cash and first rounder when we can find our own Mike Wallace in the draft? Or possibly even better, our own Antonio Brown even later?

The longer teams wait to give him a tendered offer, the longer the Steelers can negotiate with him and sign him long-term without another team being in the mix. But the second another team does offer him something, if anyone does, all bets are off.

Either way, the Steelers are in a win-win situation. They either keep Mike Wallace for at least one more season with exclusive negotiation rights to keep him long-term....or they lose Wallace and get a first round pick in this year's draft to use for any player they want, upgrade anywhere that they want.

Here we go Steelers, here we go!

New Mock Draft- Trade Up Edition

The Washington Redskins gave up a king's ransom to trade up to the #2 overall pick to select whichever quarterback the Indianapolis Colts do not take. So with this move, it shakes up the draft a whole lot. Not to mention teams have been making cuts to get under the salary cap and player rankings have changed since the combine. So here is my latest prediction on the 2012 NFL Rookie Draft.

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB Stanford - With all that's been talked about Robert Griffin III, some people have forgotten about the Stanford quarterback. I still think the Colts are going to go with Luck because most thing he is the most impressive quarterback prospect since another Stanford signal caller, John Elway. The Colts just let go of future Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning, I think they are going to take Luck who's game is a lot like Manning's. He's the traditional pocket quarterback, but he can move around too and pick up a first down with his feet if he needs to. 
2. Washington Redskins (from Rams): Robert Griffin III, QB Baylor - The Redskins gave up their 2012 first and second round picks, 2013 first round pick, and 2014 first round pick to the Rams to obtain the second overall pick in this draft. You don't give up a haul like that to select a running back or wide receiver. With Luck off the board, the only option here for the Redskins is RGIII. He can run, he's very accurate (in the pocket and on the run), and he has a rocket launcher attached to his right shoulder instead of an arm. He is the player Mike Shannahan needs the most to turn the Redskins around from NFC East cellar dweller into a playoff and hopefully Super Bowl team.
3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT Southern California - The Vikings took Christian Ponder in the first round last year. He needs to be protected, and the only smart pick for them to make is the offensive tackle out of Southern Cal. He will not only protect Ponder's blind side, he will be a good run blocker for Adrian Peterson (when he returns from his knee injury) and Toby Gerhart.
4. Cleveland Browns: Morris Claiborne, CB LSU - Yes, I had the Browns taking Trent Richardson in my last mock draft, but I have since changed my mind on that. The Browns defense is further along than their offense, but it seems that the Pat Shurmer version of the West Coast Offense isn't big on running the football more than 14 times a game very often, so taking a RB here doesn't fit. Yes they could take Justin Blackmon, but I don't think he fits the version of wideout that they want. Claiborne is the best pick here, giving the Browns potentially two shut down cornerbacks if Claiborne works out. With the NFL becoming more and more of a passing league, the need for top defensive backs is going to be high. 
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Trent Richardson, RB Alabama - I had the Redskins taking Morris Claiborne with this pick in my first mock draft, but in this version he's gone to the Browns. If the Browns end up not taking him, then I still have the Pewter Pirates taking him. However, for this mock draft I have them taking Richardson. Yes, LeGarrete Blount is a very powerful runner...but he doesn't understand blocking schemes and he has a high fumble rate. Richardson is a weapon that can be used in run and pass situations because he understands blocking schemes and can catch the ball out of the backfield. While running back isn't their biggest need, there really isn't a player here that fits at this pick for the Buccaneers.
6. St. Louis Rams (from the Redskins): Justin Blackmon, WR Oklahoma State - The Rams got a ton from the Redskins to move back and likely still get the player that they covet the most. Blackmon is by far the best receiving prospect in the draft, but wasn't worthy of the #2 overall pick and the Rams didn't need a quarterback. Now their big money franchise quarterback finally has a real weapon at wide receiver. A guy that can go up and fight for the football, a guy who can get open underneath and then take the ball to the house. Sam Bradford to Justin Blackmon is going to be just about as exciting for Rams fans as Kurt Warner to Torry Holt was. Plus all the extra picks from the Redskins...as long as they draft right the Rams should be a playoff team in a season or two.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Riley Reiff, OT Iowa - Last year the Jaguars took Blaine Gabbert in the first round, but very little protection in front of him. Right tackle Guy Whimper (horrible name for a football player, perfect for a male synchronized swimmer) played much like his namesake....he just wasn't good. He is a free agent and his current immediate backup is a guy who was an undrafted free agent last year, Cameron Bradfield. If they want Gabbert to be a success, they need to protect him. Reiff should be the only option as long as he is still on the board. 
8. Miami Dolphins: Michael Brockers, DT LSU - I still have the Dolphins taking Brockers. Their new head coach wants to take the Dolphins to a 4-3 defense and he needs more bodies along the defensive line. Him and Paul Soliai should be a formidable DT tandem to help stuff the run. If they don't take Brockers, they may opt for Stanford's Jonathon Martin to bookend the line at RT and protect whoever ends up being the Miami quarterback. A lot of people are mocking Texas A&M quarterback Ryan Tannehill here in case the 'Phins don't get Peyton Manning or Matt Flynn. Even if they don't get either of those quarterbacks, I don't think they take Tannehill out of desperation/
9. Carolina Panthers: Dontari Poe, DT Memphis - I have him as the second best defensive tackle in the draft, and the Panthers need a defensive tackle. They took two in the third round last year, Sione Fua and Terrell McClain. Fua played well for a rookie, but McClain was horrible against the run. With Poe dominating his blocker, you can rotate the two players they took in the third round beside him depending on the situation. Another choice here could be the player I put here in my first mock draft, Penn State DT Devon Still if they feel he is a better fit for what they want to do on defense. They do need a CB, but I don't think they take Janoris Jenkins this high, but could trade back and target him if they get a good offer.
10. Buffalo Bills: Melvin Ingram, DE South Carolina - Some sites have him pegged as an outside linebacker, but I think he can play defensive end in a 4-3 defense. The Bills have telegraphed their picks in the past with this current staff, and they have been complaining about the lack of a pass rush. They play in a division with former NFL MVP Tom Brady of the Patriots, former first round pick Mark Sanchez of the Jets, and they might possibly be getting Peyton Manning in the division if the Dolphins can convince him to bring his talents to South Beach. They need to get to the quarterback. If they don't take Ingram or another DE prospect with this pick, I think they go with a wide receiver to help out Ryan Fitzpatrick who they gave a big contract to last season.
11. Kansas City Chiefs: Jonathon Martin, OT Stanford - Todd Hailey waived Jared Gaither last season and now the Chiefs don't have a right tackle. They also need protection in case they are unable to resign LT Brandon Albert. If the Chiefs are going to come anywhere close to winning the AFC West in 2012, they need to protect Matt Cassel and open holes for Jamaal Charles. I really don't see another option for the Chiefs if Martin falls to them. If he is not there, then I see them taking his college teammate David DeCastro to play guard. 
12. Seattle Seahawks: Quinton Couples, DE North Carolina - Another team that had a very weak pass rush last season, the Seahawks need to get to the quarterback. They play two first overall picks in Sam Bradford (Rams) and Alex Smith (49ers) twice a season each, and then could meet them again in the playoffs if the 'Hawks get there. This is the best available option for the Seahawks if they are looking for a pass rush defensive end. Another option would be Boston College middle linebacker Luke Keuechly because their middle linebacker is a free agent who was nothing special and Keuechly would be a run stopper at MLB, and the defending NFC West Champions San Francisco 49ers like to run the ball with Frank Gore.
13. Arizona Cardinals: David DeCastro, OG Stanford - The Cardinals are in the running for Peyton Manning, and even if they don't get him they still need to upgrade their offensive line. They have a good run game with Beanie Wells pounding the rock, and DeCastro would help him out along with protecting either Manning or Kevin Kolb. If he's on the board, there is no question in my mind that DeCastro is their pick.
14. Dallas Cowboys: Janoris Jenkins, CB North Alabama- Jenkins has seemed to clean up his act, but he was still kicked out of school by Florida. Jerry Jones doesn't care about character concerns and if it wasn't for the character concerns involved with Jenkins, he would likely be a top ten pick. The Cowboys have a bad defensive secondary and Jenkins would help sure that up some. Another option is Dre Kirkpatrick of Alabama.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Keuechly, MLB Boston College - One big problem the Eagles defense had last season was at linebacker, specifically middle linebacker. Teams ran at will on them. I know that Andy Reid doesn't like drafting linebackers high, but after last season he doesn't have much choice but to do so. If the Eagles want to become a playoff team again, they need to fix the middle of their defense.
16. New York Jets: Courtney Upshaw, OLB Alabama - The Jets have to blitz if they want to get a pass rush, and that leaves them vulnerable. Upshaw can help the situation by being for the Jets what James Harrison is to the Steelers. Also, Upshaw is also strong against the run so he can play all downs, he won't just be a pass rush specialist. I think he will be their pick since Rex Ryan is a defensive coach and will urge the Jets to make him their selection. Other options are Like Keuechly if he's there since they will likely be without Bart Scott next season if they can unload him in a trade (and if they can't trade him, they'll likely just cut him). They could also take a wide receiver here since they Plaxico Burress is going to be playing elsewhere and they don't have anyone across from Santonio Holmes. Also they can go with Alabama's SS Mark Barron with Jim Leonhard a free agent and coming off of a season ending injury.
17. Cincinnati Bengals (from Raiders) - Dre Kirkpatrick, CB Alabama - The Bengals do not care very much about character concerns, if at all. Kirkpatrick's marijuana possession charges have been dropped and if anything that would be what scares off the Bengals. Nate Clements is 32 years old and while he played okay last season, is in decline. The Bengals know they made a mistake when they let Johnathon Joseph walk away last offseason to the Texans. Top corner Leon Hall is coming off of an Achillies tendon injury and may not be ready to start the season on time. They need a corner if they want to stay a playoff contender, especially in the rough and tumble AFC North.
18. San Diego Chargers - Mark Barron, SS Alabama - The Chargers have a few needs including the offensive line. However they need a safety too. They signed Bob Sanders last offseason and to nobody's surprise he ended up on injured reserve and is now a free agent. I think they go defense, but it also wouldn't shock me if they took Georgia's guard/tackle Cordy Glenn to help the line.
19. Chicago Bears: Michael Floyd, WR Notre Dame - The Bears have been trying to find a legitimate wide receiver for Jay Cutler. They have yet to find him, with last year's attempt being Roy Williams. Floyd is a big body much like Brandon Marshall was for Cutler in Denver. Getting Cutler a true #1 receiver would open up their offense a lot, which is needed if the Bears want to compete with the Packers and Lions for the NFC North. 
20. Tennessee Titans: Whitney Mercilus, DE Illinois - The Titans need to upgrade their pass rush. Derrick Morgan tore his ACL ending his rookie season in early October 2010 and then just looked bad last season. Their division is going to have Andrew Luck on the Colts, Matt Schaub on the Texans, and first round pick last year Blaine Gabbert at quarterback in the division, getting to the quarterback is important to win games. 
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Cordy Glenn, OG/OT Georgia - I hate making this pick for the Bengals because I want him to fall to the Steelers. However, I think the Bengals snatch him up at this pick to help fortify the inside of their offensive line as they let their current LG, Nate Livings, walk away in free agency. Not only do they get younger on the line with Glenn, they also upgrade the talent at that position. Another option here for the Bengals would be Miami RB Lamar Miller, who I have them taking in my first mock draft. 
22. Cleveland Browns (from Falcons): Kendall Wright, WR Baylor - They didn't get the quarterback they wanted to possibly pair with his college teammate if they could have kept this pick in a trade with the Rams....but they still fix this huge hole on the offense. Now Colt McCoy (or Matt Flynn if they sign him, or Kevin Kolb if they make a trade for him) will have a true #1 receiver to throw to. Getting him would help with making the Browns receivers better as a whole with Greg Little having a legit guy across from him so he can be a #2 receiver and then Josh Cribbs in the slot.
23. Detroit Lions: Stephon Gilmore, CB South Carolina - Offense is not the problem for the Lions, they have an explosive offense. If they needed anything on offense, it's possibly a running back due to the fact that Jahvid Best is very injury prone, specifically with concussions. But they need help on defense, the side of the ball head coach Jim Schwartz coordinated in Tennessee with the Titans. Gilmore plays with very good awareness which make him dangerous to challenge. The offensive line is built to get after the quarterback in a division with Aaron Rogers and Jay Cutler...now they need defensive backs that can cover the wide receivers and take advantage of balls thrown under distress.
24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Dont'a Hightower, ILB Alabama - With the Steelers cutting James Farrior, they have a big hole next to Lawrence Timmons and Hightower looks like a guy who's destiny is to be a Pittsburgh Steelers. Hightower would likely start as a rookie in Pittsburgh's complex 3-4 defense, and he would likely excel. He played the same position in Alabama's 3-4 defense which finished as the top defense in every category last season. He would be another in  along lineage of linebackers, a strong Pittsburgh tradition.
25. Denver Broncos: Fletcher Cox, DT Mississippi State - Brodrick Bunkley was good as a run stuffer last season, but he is a free agent. Even if the Broncos resign him, they need another tackle alongside him. Cox would be that guy, giving the Broncos a side interior defensive line to help stop the run in a division with Jamaal Charles (Chiefs), Darren McFadden (Raiders), and Ryan Matthews (Chargers). 
26. Houston Texans: Stephen Hill, WR Georgia Tech - The Texans might resign linebacker Mario Williams since they have signed RB Arian Foster to a long term deal. If they do this, then I think they'll want to get a receiver to team with Andre Johnson. When Johnson got hurt, they were left with Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walter as their two starting wide receivers. Drafting Hill brings some insurance if Andre Johnson goes down with another injury, and brings a second big receiver to the starting offense for Schaub to target in the passing game.
27. New England Patriots (from Saints): Devon Still, DT Penn State - The New England Patriots offense isn't the problem, it's the defense that was the worst ranked in the AFC last season. The Patriots transitioned to a 4-3 base defense last season and had lined Albert Haynesworth up next to Vince Wilfork. Haynesworth was released by New England in November and claimed off of waivers by the Buccaneers who then released him after the season, he is currently a free agent. If the Patriots draft Still, they get another piece to fixing their defense and he can also move to DE when the Patriots use 3-4 fronts as the sometimes do.
28. Green Bay Packers: Peter Konz, C Wisconsin - The Packers starting center, Scott Wells, is a free agent and in his early thirties and is also a free agent. They may want to draft Konz and just let Wells walk in free agency, replacing him with a player that's going to be there for another decade plus, instead of having to worry about when  age catches up to Wells and having to find a replacement for him then. Even if they resign Wells, Konz can play guard and then take over at center when the times comes later on. 
29. Baltimore Ravens: Mike Adams, OT Ohio State - The Ravens signed Bryant McKinnie last offseason after he was cut by the Vikings. While McKinnie played very well for Baltimore, he's on the wrong side of thirty and has had problems maintaining his weight. Drafting Adams gives the Ravens insurance if McKinnie gets hurt or comes into camp out of shape, or if his play just falls off due to age. Adams would also be able to learn behind one of the best tackles of the past decade.
30. San Francisco 49ers- Rueben Randle, WR LSU - The 49ers made it to the NFC Championship Game based a lot on their defense and running game. However, the divisional round game against the Saints ended up being his coming out party. Many people think he needs one more target in the passing game, and then the 49ers will be ready for a Super Bowl, seeing how they lost the NFC Championship Game by a field goal. Randle is a big body who had an eye popping average of 18.1 yards per reception last season. This would put him opposite of former first round pick Michael Crabtree, who has been rather disappointing after being the tenth overall pick of the 2009 draft.
31. New England Patriots: Nick Perry, DE Southern California - The Patriots, as mentioned before, was one of the worst defenses in the NFL last season. Perry would improve their pass rush, which will be needed if Peyton Manning ends up playing in Miami. Not only can he rush with his hand in the dirt at defensive end, he could also play some outside linebacker when they Patriots transition into a 3-4 look at times during games. 
32. New York Giants: Dwayne Allen, TE Clemson - He is likely the best player available, which fits the Giants drafting philosophy. Jake Ballard tore his ACL in the Super Bowl and nobody knows when he will be available to play this year. Allen is an upgrade over Ballard who is a fine second tight end and a serviceable starter. Allen is also a good blocker. The Giants are likely to lose Mario Manningham in free agenct and Dwayne Allen would bring a dimension to the offense that they haven't had since Jeremy Shockey was lining up at the position. Allen can also move out to the slot if needed. 

Bounty Hunters

First, let me say that I do not agree with any bounty program on any team in the National Football League. I feel that they encourage the intent to injure a player instead of simply putting the hurt on a player. And let me explain what I mean.

"I don't want to injure anybody, but I am not opposed to hurting someone." - James Harrison

Hurting someone it hitting them hard enough to cause them physical pain. Make them sore. Make a running back think twice about hitting that hole hard, a wide receiver think twice about going across the middle, or a quarterback holding onto the ball a bit longer than he would want to. I do not mean breaking a guy's leg, giving a guy a concussion, tearing up someone's knee, or intentionally causing injury worse than bruises and bumps that come naturally with playing the sport of tackle football.

Being a Steelers fan, I am a big fan of the defensive side of the ball. I personally prefer a game that ends 17-14 than a game that ends 52-47. I like defense, I like seeing big hits. I love seeing a goal line stand. To me, that's football. And I feel that most real fans feel the same way.

Now, playing such a violent sport, there are going to be serious injuries. Just last season, the Steelers had two players tear their ACL (NT Casey Hampton & RB Rashard Mendenhall). Ben Roethlisberger played on a badly sprained ankle (and has played with a broken thumb and separated shoulder in the past). Does it suck when star players get hurt? Yes, especially when they play for your team. But they happen, and there's no way to stop it.

The problem is when these types of injuries happen because there was a bounty out to do so. And it has come out that the New Orleans Saints had a bounty program that was basically instituted and ran by former defensive coordinator Gregg Williams; and that he had similar programs in place while coaching the Buffalo Bills and Washington Redskins. Specifically $1500 for a player being knocked out of a game and $1000 if the player was carted off of the football field.

It is believed that there was a bounty on Brett Favre's head in the 2009 NFC Championship Game with the way he was just bludgeoned in that game. It is also believed that there was a bounty on Kurt Warner in their 2010 playoff game against the Cardinals due to the hit that he received when trying to make a tackle after throwing an interception.

One argument that is being made is that there are bounty programs all around the league. However, I believe most of those aren't instituted by coaches but instead players getting together and pooling money together in private for big hits, interceptions, sacks, and defensive touchdowns. This could be entire defenses or just linebackers, or linemen, or defensive backs...and are likely done without the knowledge of coaching staffs or front offices.

There are going to be big penalties for the Saints and the front office personnel, coaches, and players involved in this bounty program. The forfeiture of draft picks & large fines. And suspensions of GM Mickey Loomis, Head Coach Sean Payton, former Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams, and players implicated in the program...and the suspensions will be for half a season if not more. Players that are not even on the team anymore will be affected by this, meaning that this is going to affect other teams in the NFL.

The NFL did an investigation of the Saints for this same thing in 2009 after the playoffs and found no evidence, and told GM Mickey Loomis to stop whatever bounty program there may be in New Orleans. It obviously didn't stop and continued business as usual through last season. For that, I believe that anyone who knew this was still going on should be severely punished for this. Not for the bounties themselves, but for going on with the program after being told to stop it after what was simply a verbal warning.

Also, this is going to affect more than just the Saints. It is going to affect other teams that have coaches or players from these Saints teams if it's proven that the players participated in the program. The St. Louis Rams are going to be without Gregg Williams as their defensive coordinator, and I feel they will likely fire him after learning the length of his suspension, if he isn't banned from the NFL outright by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

And now, people are looking at other teams that play defense proudly like the Pittsburgh Steelers and saying that maybe these teams put bounties out on players and that's why they play defense so well. I don't believe that the Pittsburgh Steelers put bounties out on anyone. I don't believe that the coaching staff tells any player that they will be paid x-amount of money to put a player out of the game.

I believe the defense is coached to play hard, to play tough, and to play violent. I believe that this has been the case since back when Chuck Noll came into coach the Steelers in 1969.

"I am very aggressive and very physical. On the field I guess I am just plain mean." - Jack Lambert.

"I believe the game is designed to reward the ones who hit the hardest. If you can't take it, you shouldn't play." Jack Lambert.

"It's time to plant some seeds. What that means is, hit them in the mouth. Ya know, plant some seeds. Show 'em what time it is." - Levon Kirkland

 These quotes I feel say all that needs to be said about playing defense. You play it for your own personal pride and team pride. You shouldn't need the possibility of a bounty payment to go out there and play a tough and physical style of defense. I believe that the Steelers play defense the way they do because it's a pride thing. The Steelers history is built very much on defense, and they won't stop playing physical and violent defense because that is Steelers defense.

"...the most violent team is going to win." - Mike Tomlin

The Steelers defense is simply trying to play to the standard that was set by all the great Steelers defenses that played before them. Defenses from the 1970's Steel Curtain, to the Blitzburgh defenses of the 1990's, to the 2008 defense that was one of the greatest single season defenses of all time.

"The standard is the standard." - Mike Tomlin 

These days, I believe that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wants to do away with as much defense as possible to appease the casual fan that might not want to see hits like these. And this bounty program that was run by the Saints will allow him to handcuff defenses even more than he already has.

The Steelers have become the poster team for "illegal" defense in the National Football League. From hits made by James Harrison, the Steelers rough & tumble outside linebacker who is the poster boy for Goodell's anti-defense stance. I live in Cleveland, OH and I have heard many Browns fans say that they know "for a fact" that the Steelers pay out bounties for big hits. Now of course they don't have any facts, but there is now the perception that the Steelers and any other team that plays tough and violent defense do this too.

This is a black eye to the National Football League. It's being compared to Spygate, and I feel Spygate was a worse black eye because it was blatant cheating that did nothing but attempt to give the New England Patriots an unfair advantage over the team they were playing that week. It was also a worse black eye because of the way it was handled by Roger Goodell who really swept it under the rug. The Patriots were warned against the practice of videotaping another team's offensive and/or defensive signals in a league wide memo and then continued to do so. They also used injured reserve players in practice so their starters could have more time to rest during the week. There was a fine for the team, a fine of Head Coach Bill Bellichick, and the forfeiture of the first round draft pick (31st overall) but were allowed to keep the better pick (#10 overall) where they selected one of their best defensive players, Jerod Mayo. They practiced the cheating through the time that they won three Super Bowls in four seasons. No coaches or front office personnel were suspended over this, even though they were told to stop the practice.

This is going to be a very large black eye, and Roger Goodell is going to do what he feels that he must do to "protect the shield."