Browns & Steelers Draft Review
Thomas, Quinn, Timmons, Woodley Lead Rookies Into the AFC North
The Cleveland Browns try to draft a new foundation, as the Pittsburgh Steelers try to get back to the Super Bowl by infusing the 2007 Draft picks into their rosters.
Cleveland Browns
After all of the accolades about the Browns picks, let’s take a closer look. Joe Thomas was a starter from the moment he was picked in the first round. A technician at the tackle position, Joe will not disappoint. Quarterback Brady Quinn, will look to take over the starting job sometime this season. The jury is out on Brady, but he has the advantage of playing in Charlie Weis’ system at Notre Dame. The steal of this draft may turn out to be cornerback Eric Wright, without a doubt, Wright is a first round talent, but an off field incident at USC may have scared off a lot of teams, but Eric is really turning heads in Cleveland’s mini camps. Another corner drafted by the Browns, Brandon McDonald must work on his technique in order to prove he is ready to contribute.
Defensive ends Melila Purcell and Chase Pittman are both projects and may have trouble sticking with the team this year, but Purcell may have a chance with his active motor and possible ability to play both defensive end and defensive tackle. Syndric Steptoe is a very good return specialist, but will struggle to get game experience as a receiver.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers just keep on replacing one standout linebacker with another; Lawrence Timmons should come in and quickly make people forget about the loss of Joey Porter. Lamarr Woodley adds bulk to the linebacker position, but may struggle if force to play out in space. Tight end Matt Spaeth is very skilled as a receiving threat, but will only be in used in two tight end sets, limiting his opportunities. Punter Daniel Sepulveda will get a long look in camp; he has to show he can kick under pressure. Ryan McBean will make the team, he may be a candidate to move inside and apply a burst to the Steeler pass rush from the defensive tackle position.
If guard Cameron Stephenson can sharpen his technique of the next couple of seasons, he can turn into a monster of a guard with his outstanding strength. With Alan Faneca on the outs with the franchise, Stephenson can be groomed as his heir apparent. William Gay will struggle to stick with the team. If Dallas Baker can add a little bit of speed to his game, he can become an interesting option in the red zone. Baker also needs to work on going into the middle of the field; he often seemed hesitant in college.
Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens Preview
