SB Nation - Kraig Urbik

Would the Pittsburgh Steelers benefit from cutting Stefan Logan?

Blitzburgh — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:00:21 -0000

I know this is a subject that many of us disagree on, so I write this somewhat hesitantly. But I personally think the Pittsburgh Steelers would be better off cutting Stefan Logan. Or at least deactivating him for a few weeks. I'll offer up five reasons why I think that, and would then love to hear your thoughts about the subject.

Let's leave aside the fact that Logan had a costly miscue in last Sunday's game against the Chargers. For the record, I too think it was bogus that he wasn't whistled down. But when you keep churning your legs and aren't being pushed backwards, that call is in play. Anyway, irregardless of that gaffe, I still think the Steelers could get near the same, if not more, production from Santonio Holmes as a punt returner. Remember, Holmes' punt returns in the Dallas game and the playoff game against San Diego were huge, huge plays that propelled the team to victory. Logan has been impressive. He's been much better than what we've been accustomed to, and I agree, it's probably only a matter of time before he broke one for a touchdown. Still, he hasn't made an immediate impact as a punt returner through the first quarter of the season. And we know there's at least one option with big-play potential for when we need a spark from special teams (Holmes), and a trustworthy returner to make clean fair catches when the situation doesn't merit taking any unnecessary chances (M. Moore).
What about kick returns? Logan also been very solid returning kicks. He's averaging a healthy 26.8 yards per return, good for 8th in the league for returners with at least 6 returns. That's nothing to sneeze at, but say we downgraded to only 20 or 22 yards per return - with the way this offense is humming, I'm not sure that's a devastating downgrade. Here's where I'd like to see Joe Burnett factor in. The rookie cornerback from Central Florida was a 1st Team All American as a kick and punt returner last year. I think he has a knack for finding small crevices and making guys miss in open space. I see returning as more of an art than merely requiring blazing speed. Why would 49ers and one-time Steelers return man Allen Rossum still be able to rip off touchdowns at the age of 34? I've noticed Burnett playing on other special teams units. He hasn't been noticeably great or terrible, but if he's earned the right to see the field at all, my vote would be to let him have his crack at returning.
Roster spots. Here's one example of how the roster spot could be used a bit more effectively, perhaps. Chris Kemoeatu, who arguably had his best game as a professional last Sunday, has been limited in practice this week with an ankle injury. Might it make sense to activate Kraig Urbik this week as insurance? Or how about another example? What about some new, fresh blood on defense? Not sure who that candidate might be, but again, that's an area where I think more value could be added.
As for Logan's potential use in offensive packages - like for example, the play we looked at where the Steelers were in a four-bunch set with Logan remaining at the line of scrimmage as an outlet option. Well, his speed and shiftyness in open space is intriguing. But we already have one speedster that's been wowing us so far through the first four games of his rookie year. That'd be Mike Wallace, and I'd vote for finding ways to get him even more involved rather than trying to force a look or two to Logan each week.
Finally, I'd argue that it's more important that we work Limas Sweed in to the rotation and give him a few more chances to see if he can overcome his jitters sooner rather than later. On a similar note, if the team would like extra insurance at wide receiver, it'd be easier to keep six wide receivers active and get McDonald activated if Logan's spot was free.

Just a few thoughts from me on the subject. Yours?

Titans vs. Steelers: Five Questions with Behind the Steel Curtain

Jimmy — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:47:38 -0000

1. In the match-up between these two teams last season the Titans were able to sack Big Ben 5 times and force him to throw 2 picks. Is the Steelers offensive line better this season than it was last season?

It's not clear if the Steelers offensive line will be any better than they were in 2008 when they allowed Big Ben to take a beating all year round. The personnel is largely the same, with only rookie guard Kraig Urbik replacing incumbent right guard starter Darnell Stapleton amongst the top 5. On the one hand, that has to concern Steelers fans. On the other, we all know how important continuity and experience playing together is, particularly at that position. So we'll just have to see if this group of mostly the same guys is better with a year of rough-and-tumble experience under their belts. Titans fans might want to keep an eye on right tackle Willie Colon, the whipping boy of the offensive line for Steelers fans last year. He reportedly had a great camp and has undeniably looked better in limited action this preseason. If he can take a step - and preferably two or three...big ones - forward this year, the line could be substantially better than it was a year ago.

2. Obviously a lot has been made of the incident with the terrible towels at the end of last season's game. I know that is a big deal to the fans, but do you think it adds any motivation for the team?

Well, Coach Mike Tomlin apparently spent all of five seconds talking about it. My guess is he said something along the lines of 'the team that wins gets to do the talking.'

3. Do you think the Steelers can repeat in 2009?

Absolutely I think they can repeat. It begins and ends with their defense, which should again be at worst one of the league's five or ten best defenses. If you can keep Ben Roethlisberger in close ball games, we all know he can take over from there.

4. Talk to us about Nate Washington. He was the Titans biggest offseason acquisition. Do you think he can be a #1 receiver in this league? Why did the Steelers not make more of an effort to keep him?

No, he can not be a #1 receiver in this league. He's too frail and lacks confidence and guts catching the ball over the middle with a looming safety. He improved in that department during his time in Pittsburgh, but he's more or less a one-trick pony, and that's stretching the field. I will say though that he'd be a bigger asset if Vince Young were quarterback than if Kerry Collins is behind center. Why? Because Washington's also good when plays break down and the quarterback moves outside of the pocket trying to make something out of nothing. Obviously that's something Roethlisberger did/does a lot. And he often looked to Nate in those situations. I obviously don't see Collins breaking contain too often and trying to make a play outside of the pocket.

5. Write the headline in Friday morning's Tennessean.

Steelers avenge desecration of Towel, mop up Titans 24-14

Hope Nate reads this before the game tonight.

Click here to see BTSC's questions for me and my answers.

Shallow Thoughts & Nearsighted Observations

Ted Bartlett — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:30:17 -0000

Happy Monday, fellow MHR community members. It's time for another version of ST&NO. We're getting to the part of the offseason where I am really starting to long for the preseason to start. When you get your information from your eyes, your eyes start to miss having anything to look at. Here's hoping the next 8 weeks goes by quickly.

Today, we'll look at the AFC North, since the Broncos will play all 4 teams this season. We'll also talk about some of the few headlines around the league, and maybe talk a little Brandon Marshall. It will make you laugh, it will make you cry (if it is your wont to cry over weird things.) It will be shallow, and narrow. Ready.... BEGIN!!!

1. As previously mentioned, our around-the-league discussion turns to the AFC North this week. As I live in the first suburb west of Cleveland, I get a fair amount of exposure to the division, so, hopefully that helps me with this 8-week road show I am on. See you after the jump.

a. Pittsburgh Steelers (2008 Record 12-4, Won Super Bowl)

Smart Personnel Moves - Kraig Urbik, a 3rd round choice from Wisconsin, has a chance to start at Guard on the Steelers' terrible offensive line. He is a big, physical run-blocker, who fits the personality of the team. I think Ziggy Hood is a good 4-3 DT, but I have my doubts about him as a 5-technique DE in the Steelers' style of 3-4. Giving Kevin Colbert the benefit of the doubt, and assuming Hood's skill set translates well, he'll probably be a rotation contributor as a rookie. Shaun McDonald is an average slot WR, which is better than the Steelers have had in that role lately.

Questionable Personnel Moves - Not that Marvel Smith is a great player, because he isn't, but I don't see how you let him leave when your offensive line is already one of the worst in the NFL. Max Starks sure isn't the answer on a 1-year, $8.5 million deal. I'm also not Bryant McFadden's biggest fan, but he'll also be somewhat challenging to replace. I didn't really care for the rest of Pittsburgh's draft, but they have to hope that either Joe Burnett or Keenan Lewis can contribute at CB as rookies. I am also not sold on the full-time promotion of Lawrence Timmons or the release of Larry Foote. Truth be told, I almost never like Pittsburgh's offseasons, so take it for what it's worth.

ST&NO Outlook - The Steelers will do what they have been doing for 35 years. They'll run the ball, stop the run, and pressure opposing QBs. Their potential for improvement comes from Rashard Mendenhall and Limas Sweed, their top 2 picks in 2008, who gave the team virtually nothing as rookies. Both are talented, and if they develop their skills, could add new dimensions to the Steelers' offense.

This team will have to keep Ben Roethlisberger healthy, which I expect they'll have some trouble doing. Their line (Did you hear? It's awful) really struggles in pass protection, and I don't expect the arrival of Urbik to substantially change that. The defense should again be good in the front 7, but I expect that a team which can pass-protect, like the Broncos, will be able to accomplish some things against their below-average secondary.

The Steelers will again be in the mix to play in another Super Bowl, but I expect them to take a half-step backwards from last season.

b. Baltimore Ravens (2008 Record 11-5, Lost in Divisional Playoffs)

Smart Personnel Moves - I like virtually their entire draft, which is typical for them. Michael Oher is a big-time talent, and I think he will eventually move Jared Gaither to RT, where he really belongs. Paul Kruger is a high-motor pass rusher, and a favorite of mine. I expect him to compete for snaps right away. Jason Phillips was an undervalued ILB from Texas Christian, and represented good value in the 5th round. I expect him to help make up for the loss of Bart Scott. On the free agency front, I liked the low-dollar signings of CB-RS Chris Carr and TE L.J. Smith, and I think both can make the team and contribute. The Ravens had to re-sign Ray Lewis, and did it eventually.

Questionable Personnel Moves - They lost the talent exchange huge in signing C Matt Birk, and letting Jason Brown leave as a UFA. Brown is a mauler, who fit the Ravens' style, and Birk is totally a finesse guy. Domonique Foxworth is a great guy, and an average CB, and there's no way he warranted a 4-year, $28 million contract. He can't replace Chris McAllister, who was cut in a somewhat weird salary dump. I also would take Jim Leonhard over Dawan Landry any day, and I think the Ravens should have tried harder to retain Leonhard.

ST&NO Outlook - I believe that the Ravens overachieved in 2008, and I expect them to take a step backwards to 8-8 or 9-7 this season. I didn't address the loss of Bart Scott in either of the two categories above, but I think it will hurt the interior of the defense. I also think the only above-average player in the secondary now is Ed Reed, and that portends for trouble. I do like the promotion of Greg Mattison to defensive coordinator. He worked as co-Defensive Coordinator at the University of Florida for 3 years, which is how I came to be familiar with him.

On offense, Joe Flacco had a very nice rookie season, and I'll be interested to see what kind of improvement he experiences in his second year. The offense isn't great, and if the defense isn't dominant, it would be hard to imagine them having a lot of comeback ability. That's the scenario which I envision for the Ravens in 2009. They'll be well-coached, but a little short on talent.

c. Cincinnati Bengals (2008 Record 4-11-1, Missed Playoffs)

Smart Personnel Moves - In the draft, I really liked the selection of TE Chase Coffman from Missouri. I think he will grow to become their best pass-catcher at TE since Dan Ross in the 1980s. On talent, you have to like T Andre Smith, ILB Rey Maualuga, and DE Michael Johnson, but all three are considered major threats to underachieve. Since we're in benefit-of-the-doubt mode, we'll just focus on the talent for now. In my opinion, Laveranues Coles is a more threatening player than the departed T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and they got him for less than Who's-your-mama cost Seattle. I liked the trade for RB Brian Leonard, which fell a little under the radar. He has some similarities to Peyton Hillis, that I think Bengals fans will enjoy. They also paid reasonable money (2 years, $7 million) for Cedric Benson, who really played pretty well for them last season.

Questionable Personnel Moves - I would have moved WR Chad Ochocinco out of town, and not thought twice about it. With the signing of Coles, and the high draft picks spent on Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell last season, Ocho isn't worth the headache that you know he is going to be. I think J.T. O'Sullivan is a big downgrade from Ryan Fitzpatrick as a backup QB, which I guess reminds you how little I think of J.T. S Roy Williams is not the answer for the Bengals secondary. He ought to just move to WLB, where he may actually be able to be a good player.

ST&NO Outlook -The Bengals are likely to struggle again in 2008. The main reason they have been so consistently bad is their cheap approach to business. Their coaches are all low-paid relative to their peers, and you don't get quality that way. The team should have fired Marvin Lewis two years ago, but money seems to have prevented that. The Bengals spend by far the least money on scouting, and they rely very heavily on The National service for their evaluations.

Offensively, the key variable is Carson Palmer. I believe that he has never been the same player since that catastrophic knee injury in the 2006 playoff game. Now, he is coming off a serious elbow injury, and he chose not to have Tommy John surgery for it. I am not terribly optimistic for him, or the Bengals' offense.

The defense will be bad against the pass, but could improve against the run, if Keith Rivers returns from injury well, and Rey Maualuga is able to help some against base personnel packages on first and second down. The Bengals need better play out of Johnathan Joseph and Leon Hall at CB, as both were first-round picks.

c. Cleveland Browns (2008 Record 4-12, Missed Playoffs)

Smart Personnel Moves - Their best moves were non-moves. It was the right thing to do in holding on to Brady Quinn and Braylon Edwards. People here in Cleveland are down on Edwards, but if he plays better, that will be a distant memory. Fan attitudes in Cleveland change like the weather. I liked the acquisition of DE Kenyon Coleman, S Abram Elam, and QB Brett Ratliff in the trade for the #5 overall pick. Regular readers will note that I don't like top-10 picks, but Coleman and Elam are likely to start, and I think Ratliff will end up backing up Quinn. Brian Robiskie will be a good possession WR, even if the Browns over-drafted him. I really liked the acquisition of Mike Furrey in free agency. He is one of the best slot guys in the NFL when he is used correctly.

Questionable Personnel Moves - I didn't care for the Alex Mack pick on a couple of levels. I like Eric Wood better, but that's a difference of opinion. Really, though, the Browns needed to take Chris Wells or Donald Brown. The Browns' RB situation is abysmal, and it's hard to have an identity as a running team, without the horses to do it. Kevin Shaffer was lousy at RT, but John St. Clair is worse, so I don't see how you let Shaffer go. Sean Jones should have also been re-signed. In the draft, I was not a lover of the Mohammed Massaquoi pick. I have seen him a lot, and he is just a guy.

ST&NO Outlook - I think the Browns are on the right track, generally. If any team needs a coach to ignore the howls of the local radio idiots and their un-knowledgeable callers, it's the Browns. Eric Mangini is the embodiment of the guy who doesn't care what Mike Trivisonno thinks about anything. You hear about stuff like the rookies taking a bus trip, and coaches working until midnight, but I tend to think Mangini's prickliness is OK, because he knows how to build a program. He was on the way in New York, and he got hamstrung by the Favre expectations, and then lost his job when it didn't work out.

I am nearly certain that Brady Quinn will win the starting QB job. He is very technically sound, and he processes the game really quickly and decisively, which is the opposite of Derek Anderson. The left side of the O-Line is very good, although there are odd rumors that Eric Steinbach is out of favor, as noted in this space last week. I think that Jamal Lewis is washed-up, and that rookie James Davis may beat him out for a lot of carries.

The defense is kind of a disaster story. NT Shaun Rogers is outstanding, and I have always liked CB Brandon McDonald (who was the burnee on Eddie Royal's 93-yard TD last season.) Beyond that, I am not too fond of anybody on their defensive unit. Eric Wright has talent, and may improve, and Kamerion Wimbley could be good if he ever learned to do anything more than speed rush.

We'll see the Browns in Week 2, but they are at least one draft away from being very scary. I'd rather be them than the Bengals, though.

2. I think it is absurd that Brandon Marshall may face additional discipline if he is convicted in the Watley case, which has now been postponed until August. It seems to me that the NFL is having it two ways, and that it's unfair. Think about it like this. In the Paul Tagliabue days, the League always waited until after legal matters were resolved to levy punishments. Roger Goodell has asserted his right to rule before legal matters are finalized, and in fact, it seems that that is standard practice.

So, when Marshall was suspended last year, for getting arrested a few times, it seemed that that penalty encompassed this allegation, as well as all of Brandon's past transgressions. That the NFL is saying they can still penalize Brandon for the known allegation would not be fair. Guru said that he speculated the NFL's position to be maintenance of flexibility in the event that new allegations emerge in this trial, which would be slightly more understandable. My position is that the underlying allegation has been penalized, and that the NFL should stop saber-rattling, and do nothing further. I would say that even if we were talking about Philip Rivers.

3. Brett Favre had surgery to fix his shoulder. Good times, huh? It looks like he'll be a Viking this season. It says here that Brett will not deliver a championship for them, and that they'll struggle to even make the playoffs with him in the lineup. He is a chemistry killer at this point in his career.

4. I liked what I heard from Josh McDaniels about how he planned to use Peyton Hillis this season. I think any smart coach would look for ways to use a guy like Peyton, in both the running and passing games.

5. Coming back to Marshall, I don't think that there is very much substance to this business about him holding out for more money. It is just the kind of thing that a Pork Chop or one of his ilk will try to make a big deal about, to fill some space. While I am sure that Marshall would like more money, it's not a big deal until he starts skipping mandatory events.

6. Mike Lombardi had an interesting nugget in his Sunday at the Post column.

Word I hear out of Denver is that the Broncos are very happy with both quarterbacks. However; Kyle Orton should be the starter when the season starts. Chris Simms is getting better with each practice, speeding his game up and making decisions faster. But Orton still has the upper hand.

My goodness, two QBs who can play? Who saw that coming? How could a team be happy about Orton and Simms?

With a slow news week comes a short list. We'll see you next week, for more ST&NO. We'll talk about the AFC East, and anything that may come up this week.

Poll

Who will win the AFC North this season?

Pittsburgh Steelers

439 votes

Baltimore Ravens

100 votes

Cincinnati Bengals

15 votes

Cleveland Browns

14 votes

568 votes | Poll has closed

BTSC Steelers Daily Six Pack- 2008 vs 1979 Edition?

drinkyourmilkshake — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:36:31 -0000

IX- As many of you may or may not have heard Ben Roethlisberger injured his knee e in practice yesterday and has not been able to walk without a limp since the injury according to various media reports. Many are reporting it is nothing serious, but of course nobody will know for sure with Mike Tomlin and Ben both declining to comment on the injury after practice. Ben's biggest challenge right now isn't throwing a football or dodging defenders, it is trying to break 100 on the site of the 2009 U.S. Open next week. Roethlisberger, who says he has a 3 handicap, and other celebrities including Michael Jordan will be competing in the Golf Digest U.S. Open Challenge.

UPDATE:- Ben seemed OK today in Practice this morning and participated with the first team, according to the Post Gazette.

X- Wow is this site ever a really cool. I initially caught wind of it through Bust a Bucket, a Portland Trail-Blazers blog. The blog did a fantasy draft of every player that passed through their franchise and then matched them up in some fantasy games through a site called "What-If Sports". I didn't have time to use the site in quite the manner that the Bust a Bucket crew did, but I did have a chance to match-up the 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers against 1979 Pittsburgh Steelers with the 79' Steelers getting Home Field advantage at the now defunct Three Rivers Stadium. Well Guess what old timers? The yet to be named 2008 Steelers defense held strong and only allowed 10 points, while Ben and boys rammed 27 points on Jack Lambert and company. That's right 2008 Steelers 27, 1979 Steelers 10. Make sure to check out "What-if Sports" as I am sure we could come up with some other really cool match ups.

XIII-How cute; ~~T-rex~~ A.Q. Shipley and Kraig Urbik study the playbook together every night before they go to bed. After reading that article all I could picture was the two of them cuddled up together reading plays and thankfully Cotter at One for the Other Thumb is a photo shop genius and concocted the most hilarious photoshop on earth.

XIV-Also from One for the Other Thumb is a quality reflection on the career of Rodney Harrison formerly of the Patriots and Chargers. Not only is Harrison a jerk, a steroid abuser, and dirty player, but he also stole the job of future Hall of Famer and Steeler Legend Jerome Bettis. Maybe Jerome will run over Harrison with this bus and get his job back.

XL- Lawrence Timmons seems to be making an impression on everyone going into his first year as a starter. Scout's Inc., Matt Williamson, is confident that Timmons will be a play-maker this season especially with his pass rushing skills. He was quoted as saying:

"Timmons could be special. LeBeau is going to have a lot of things at his disposal to do with Timmons whether it's blitzing or in coverage. He can open his hips and run down the deep middle if they want to play a Tampa 2 system, which is where Mike Tomlin comes from, and I think he can stay with any tight end in the AFC North division for sure. So LeBeau is going to have a new toy."

XLIII-Last but not least, I have to mention the Penguins in the Six-Pack as it appears to be a good luck charm. So remember to stop by our friends at Pensburgh and check out their live chat for game four tonight where the Penguins look to tie up the best of seven series.

Steeler Draft Grades and Analysis (Late)

HighSchoolSteeler — Mon, 18 May 2009 02:37:58 -0000

Editor's Note: Many thanks to HSS for his writeup and analysis about the 2009 NFL Draft for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Well done as usual from the young'n. If there was one player that I would disagree with his assessment about it would be Ra'Shon Harris. The DL out of Oregon most certainly has a steep hill to climb to make it in the National Football League, but I actually view him as a player with tremendous sleeper potential due to being a late bloomer physically. Take a look at photos of him during college and then during mini-camps. He looks much more toned and fit already. Anyway, I don't think it was a bad pick in the 6th Round by the Steelers front office. I also think that the Burnett pick was a fantastic one. Kid can flat out play football - great natural instincts for the game. Definitely the type of player that will find a way to make plays, in whatever capacity possible. Regardless well done and much appreciated. -Blitz-

*****************

Another year come and gone, and another new crop of rookies for us to mold into the stars of tomorrow. Sorry to get a little cheesy there but as most of you know I'm pretty damn passionate when it comes to the draft. Here are my thoughts on the newest Pittsburgh Steelers. I apologize for this being late, but if the NFL can do it, so can I.

Before I do anything else, let me take a moment to pause and grieve for a fine young man, now lost to the bowels of Cleveland; the person I speak of is of course is Alex Mack. I'll always remember what could have been, but at the same time I have to laugh at a moronic pick by Cleveland. Sure, Mack is a great prospect, but the Brownies passed up on many more players who could have filled much bigger needs. Regardless, Alex Mack is a Brown now, and the time for feeling sorry for him will soon come to an end when we face the Browns in the upcoming season.

Anyway onto our picks.

Round 1-Ziggy Hood, DL, Missouri

The Good: Ziggy is an athletic defensive lineman with a great motor and an even better attitude. At, 6'3" 300+ lbs, Hood has top end strength, and is a guy who can definitely push people around, and has the speed and moves to be devastating. He excels at rushing the passer, which, in a 3-4 scheme, will be harder to do for a defensive lineman, but will add hell to our already devastating outside rush. His character itself speaks volumes about him as a person and a player. Hood is the type of competitor who just doesn't quit, and gives his all on every play. At Mizzou, he was looked to as a leader on and off the field, and was a top force for opponents in the Big 12.

The Bad: Ziggy is not accustomed to being 3-4 DE, but instead a 4-3 DT. He played with a much-less complex Mizzou-playbook, in contrast to the highly intricate workings of Dick LeBeau, and the 3-4 scheme. In addition to making the move to end, he'll also have to improve his run defense which has been inconsistent at times. The Steelers themselves, as they do so often, will wait on Ziggy, who will have an immense challenge at adapting to a 5-technique, 3-4 DE.

Bottom Line: What the future holds for Hood is unclear, as it is for any player, but it will ultimately come down to his ability to adapt to the Steelers system. I could see Hood having trouble in succeeding in our defense, but based on his work ethic, character, and overall talent, I could see Hood turning into a tough defensive end, and an important piece in our dominant defense.

Grade: B+

Round 3, Pick A-Kraig Urbik, OL, Wisconsin

The Good: Big, Physical Mauler who will most likely challenge Stapleton for the RG position. Urbik has power, and ideal size for his position-6'6", 320+ lbs. He's also known for a nasty blue-collar attitude that will fit in just right with our organization. In addition to character he's versatile to play tackle or guard on either side.

The Bad: Poor footwork. On a video shown by the NFL after Urbik was drafted, the NFL Network Team explained how he wasn't all that great one on one in space in pass protection. These flaws can lead to multiple holding calls if he's not corrected.

Bottom Line: Again and again it has been said that Urbik may not be a star, but his versatility combined with a good attitude and work ethic could mean a very long career in the NFL. Look for him to possibly press either Stapleton or Willie Colon in training camp and the rest of the preseason.

Grade: B

Round 3, Pick B-Mike Wallace, WR, Ole Miss

The Good: Wallace is blazing fast. Though his combine 40 time and his pro day say 4.33, Mike Mayock said that he clocked him at 4.28. It's a wonder Al Davis didn't get him right? In addition to his pure speed, Wallace has a great vertical as well posting 40" at the combine. This makes his 6' size a lot more dangerous down field. His addition to the team should make up for the loss of Nate Washington and maybe even then some. On top of all that, Wallace is also an accomplished kickreturner, and had 2 return TDs at Ole Miss.

The Bad: Despite his supreme athleticism, Wallace does have some flaws, as with any prospect. Though his hands are reportedly better than average, he'll repeatedly let the ball into his pads resulting in some nasty drops. We'll have to see how frequent this happens and if that is something that he can eliminate with experience. In addition to that, Wallace is hard to place as route runner.For the routes that he's accustomed too he'll be fine, but when asked to do new routes from a new playbook, Wallace may struggle. Although he shows and has stated a willingness to block, his slim frame may hinder him in that aspect of the game.

Came from a rough background in New Orleans where out of his 5 siblings, 1 brother is in jail, another brother was shot and killed several years back, and one of his sisters was recently shot but ended up being alright (don't have an exact link for this, but I've gathered it from several sources including an interview with Wallace I believe). Though it doesn't appear to be an issue, you have to be a little wary of any character problems that may arise, something I'm not too worried about.

Bottom Line: Quite possibly my favorite pick in this draft, Wallace could become a deadly receiver. In addition to adding a much more dynamic threat to the return game from day 1, he will also push Sweed and McDonald for playing time. Though I'll be pulling for Sweed, that's gonna be one hell of a position battle. Ultimately I see Mike Wallace not only replacing Nate Washington, but surpassing him as well.

Grade: A-

Round 3, Pick C-Keenan Lewis, CB, Oregon State

The Good: Lewis has drawn a lot of comparison to current Steeler corner Ike Taylor in his style of play. Considering that Ike has recently been a stud in our pass defense, that is definitely a good thing. Lewis is big for a corner standing at 6'1" 208 lbs and yet can still run in the high 4.4's and low 4.5's. Though he's not a ball hawk, he gets into breaking up passes and does a good job in man coverage and can match up with the big receivers.

The Bad: Despite Lewis' size, he's not a consistent tackler. A lot of members of BTSC pointed this out after he was drafted, and to me this is something that could make or break Lewis. Though our Corners are not called upon to be involved the run support, it is definitely something that will get you noticed on the team. Like Ike, his hands are not the softest as he had only 7 career interceptions at Oregon State.

The Bottom Line: There might not be a better team right now than the Steelers at drafting corners on day 2 and turning them into starters. Just look at our current two. While the jury is still out on William Gay, we know how solid a player Ike Taylor has become after the years of grooming he went under in our depth chart. In many ways, I think Lewis could be the same; rough around the edges, but with some coaching, he could develop into a real solid player. At the very least, he provides much needed depth at corner which is something we lost with the departure of Bryant McFadden.

Grade: B

Round 5, Pick A-Joe Burnett, CB, UCF

The Good: A ballhawk. At UCF, Burnett picked off 16 passes during his career, setting a school record. As a returner he was just as effective returning 2 kicks for TD's and 3 punts (could've been 4). According to DraftguysTV, he's also a willing defender in stopping the run, which is definitley supported by his 221 career tackles.

The Bad: Though he is a great return prospect, Burnett does not have blazing speed. His 40 time sits in the 4.5's, more often than not in the high 4.5's. It has also been stated that Burnett is much better suited for a Tampa 2 scheme, as zone-coverage is his forte. Despite his play-making ability, Burnett is only 5'9", something that may or may not hinderhim against taller receivers.

Bottom Line: I like what Joe Burnett potentially brings to the table. He has a real nice array of skills, backed by great college production. If he makes the team (which he should) he'll contribute immediately to the return game, but probably won't see too much action at corner as he'll most likely be 5th or 6th on the depth chart. That 5th or 6th could change to a much higher level if Burnett can translate to the NFL.

Grade: B-

Round 5, Pick B-Frank "The Tank" Summers RB, UNLV

The Good: Ahhh yes we come to Frank the Tank. What's not to like about this pick; Summers is a classic, bruising, smash-mouth style running back that the Steelers love to have in their backfield, and is something that has been greatly missed since the departure of Jerome Bettis. Summers is a bruiser, and at 5'9", 241 lbs, is as compact as they get.

In addition to great size, Summers can move. At his UNLV Pro-Day, he turned a 4.55, which is average to below-average for most Running Backs, but for a big man like Summers it's a scout's dream come true. Another great thing; in his two years at UNLV, Summers never fumbled the football once (knock on wood) and showed soft hands at his pro day. He can play both Fullback and Running back. As a former linebacker in high school, Summers is more than willing to play special teams coverage as he "loves to hit people." Has Dreads.

The Bad: Though Summers has surprising 40 speed, he does not possess great agility. He will struggle to bounce a run to the outside. Though he's listed as a fullback, he has not shown a great willingness to play fullback and doesn't really have consistent enough blocking skills to do so. Will be 24 at the start of the season.

The Bottom Line: I was being confirmed during the later part of the draft so I had no idea what was going on. What I do remember was saying a little prayer to the big man upstairs that the Steelers draft Frank the Tank. When I got home a couple hours later I eagerly opened my laptop and checked the draft tracker. Steelers draft pick Round 5, Pick 33 (169)-Frank Summers "F Yeah Thank you Lord!" IMO, Summers will have us wondering who Gary Russell was as his first role will be to take the carries on 3rd and 4th and short and goal line situations.

I think he'll definitely line up as a Running Back due to inconsistencies in his blocking skills. In any case, I'm thrilled to see a "Big Back" back in Pittsburgh, and now there's another vehicle in the Steeler backfield.

Grade: A-

Round 6-Ra'shon "Sonny" Harris, DL, Oregon

The Good: Athletic for his size, at 6'4" 298, having decent speed, and good build. Harris gets a good jump off the snap and is good at collapsing the pocket, and can match up well with double teams. Sonny has good versatility and could play either DE or DT in our 3-4 scheme.

The Bad: According to NFL.com, Harris needs to have a better work ethic. He's inconsistent off the snap and doesn't play with good leverage, and can be maintained in blocking, and is not very shifty in changing direction. He only started one year at Oregon.

Bottom Line: I could see Harris as being a Brett Kiesel type of player, being a late draft pick that could fit our 3-4 well, but he will need to be brought up through the practice squad system, and in my mind I'm not really liking his chances. If what is said about his work ethic is true, then I'm not seeing him on the 53 man roster come September, but if he surprises me he could be a good fit in the 3-4 defense and make a solid contribution to the defense.

Grade: C

Round 7, Pick A-A.Q. Shipley, C, Penn State

The Good: A huge steal in the 7th round, many people were shocked to see Shipley fall this far. A character kid who grew up in the Pittsburgh area, Shipley is thrilled to be a part of his favorite team, and looks to model himself after former Steeler and HOF Center, Mike Webster. Both Shipley and Webster are built very similarly and took the same criticisms coming up in the NFL-too short, arms to small, but at 6'1", 304 lbs, Shipley can play some ball. This past season at Penn State, Shipley was team captain, a first team All American, and won the Rimington Trophy, an award given to the best center in college football, something neither Alex Mack or Eric Wood won. As for technique Shipley plays with a real strong base and can handle the pass rush well. He is a physical (33 bench reps at the combine) and intense player that plays through the whistle and is not intimidated by anyone.

The Bad: Again and again it is pointed out how short Shipley's arms are, something that Shipley's idol Webster has proven, doesn't mean everything. However Shipley's lack of height may also pose an issue against bigger defensive tackles, such as the Ravens' Haloti Ngata. As for blocking schemes, some say that Shipley is only a real fit for the zone-blocking scheme.

Bottom Line: I really like this pick. Many people saw Shipley as a third round pick, but instead he fell due to his size. Shipley does not seem phased by this criticism and can use it to his own motivation. Personally I think he may make the team but won't beat out Hartwig this year. I think he'll learn from him though and only get better from the experience. I wouldn't be surprised at all however, if Shipley turned into the tough, blue collar center of our future within a few years.

Grade: B

Round 7, Pick B-David Johnson, TE, Arkansas State

The Good: Better than good blocking skills. Johnson is very good at inline blocking, especially in open space. He can take on those much heavier than him and still succeed as well. Johnson has good hands and can get deep from time to time. He can also play fullback in most formations.

The Bad: Not known for his hands and isn't really a receiving threat. At only 6'2", Johnson can be overwhelmed by the larger defensive players.

Bottom Line: Not really being a big time standout in any aspect of his game, I'd be surprised if Johnson makes the team. Depending on where Sean McHugh lines up-either at TE or Fullback, there really won't be room for Johnson. I can see him as a practice squad kid who can be used as insurance if one of the TE/FB go down.

Grade: C-

Predictions

Number of Rookies Who Make the Team: 7/9

Number of Rookies that Start: 1-Kraig Urbik

Steeler Rookie of the Year: Mike Wallace

Surprise Rookie: Joe Burnett

Final Grade: B

Credits

Ziggy Hood via cache.daylife.com, www.post-gazette.com lp.imageg.net

Kraig Urbik via lp.imageg.net, static.steelers.com

Mike Wallace via static.steelers.com, lp.imageg.net

Keenan Lewis via lp.imageg.net, static.steelers.com

Joe Burnett via lp.imageg.net, static.steelers.com

Frank Summers via lp.imageg.net, static.steelers.com

Rashon Harris via lp.imageg.net, static.steelers.com

AQ Shipley via lp.imageg.net, static.steelers.com

David Johnson via lp.imageg.net, static.steelers.com

Thank you to NFL.com, Youtube, ESPN, for stats, scouting notes, and player info.

Hill blames troubles on offensive line, not on two DUIs

Adam Hoge — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:02:53 -0000

"I've only had like two teams looking at me, but I'll be fine; I consider myself a playmaker. Wisconsin struggled on our offensive line, but I made the most of every opportunity. I know I'll do that in the NFL."

- P.J. Hill in a NY Daily News story from Tues., April 21, 2009

In a somewhat surprising weekend, four former UW football players were drafted Sunday in the third round of the NFL Draft and none were selected the rest of the day. That left eight former players as undrafted free agents, two of those being P.J. Hill and Jonathan Casillas, both of whom were projected as late-round picks.

But the story right now continues to be Hill's fall from grace. The star running back who surprisingly left school a year early to pursue a professional football career has racked up two DUIs since he declared for the draft and exactly zero interest from any of the 32 NFL teams.

And apparently it's his former offensive line's fault, not his poor decision making skills or the DUIs, which certainly go hand-in-hand. In a New York Daily news story from last Tuesday, Hill was quoted saying: "Wisconsin struggled on our offensive line, but I made the most of every opportunity. I know I'll do that in the NFL."

Right, so having Joe Thomas (already an NFL Pro Bowler) your freshman year must have been a bad thing. Having the emergence of Gabe Carimi filling in for Thomas the last two seasons must have been a bad thing. Playing three seasons at a school known for having huge offensive lines must have been a bad thing.

Those five guys on the line are the only reason why Hill was once compared to Ron Dayne. They are the only reason why Hill, an injury prone baby, was able to stay healthy as long as he did. They are the only reason Hill even had a chance to be drafted in New York this past weekend. And unless I missed something, they had absolutely nothing to do with Hill getting two DUIs, the second of which involved him eluding police after getting pulled over.

So cheers to the 32 teams from the NFL for making the wise decision of not drafting a kid who once was full of promise, but is now in a downward spiral not only in his football life, but in his life in general.

Now, on to the kids who might actually make an NFL roster:

Matt Shaughnessy (DE/OLB, 6-5, 266) - Drafted by Oakland in the third round with the 71st overall pick. The Raiders can always use help on defense so Shaughnessy could see playing time.

DeAndre Levy (OLB, 6-2, 236) - Drafted by Detroit in the third round with the 76th overall pick. Levy's stock rose late and seeing as how the Lions didn't win a game last season, he should be in the mix right away.

Kraig Urbik (OG, 6-5, 328) - Drafted by Pittsburgh in the third round with the 79th overall pick. The Steelers have already indicated that they might try Urbik at center. They like his versatility and are willing to give him a shot anywhere on the line.

Travis Beckum (TE/WR, 6-3, 243) - Drafted by the New York Giants with the last pick in the third round (100th overall). With Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer gone, the Giants need guys who can catch the football. This is a good situation for Beckum.

Chris Pressley (FB, 5-11, 255) - Signed with Cincinnati as an undrafted free agent. The Bengals like The Prez a lot but he will have to work hard to make the team because they re-signed Jeremi Johnson and drafted another fullback in the seventh round.

Andy Kemp (OG, 6-5, 313) - Signed with Minnesota as an undrafted free agent. It was somewhat surprising that Kemp went undrafted so he'll have an opportunity to make the team in Minnesota.

Jonathan Casillas (OLB, 6-1, 228) - Signed with New Orleans as an undrafted free agent. The Saints will probably keep Casillas at linebacker.

Bill Rentmeester (FB, 5-11, 247) - Signed with San Diego as an undrafted free agent.

Dave Peck (LS, 6-4, 245) - The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is reporting Peck has a workout scheduled with Chicago.

Jason Chapman (DT, 6-2, 281) - Remains unsigned.

Mike Newkirk (DT, 6-1, 285) - Remains unsigned.

Poll

Which former Badger will have the longest NFL career?

Matt Shaughnessy - Oakland

8 votes

Kraig Urbik - Pittsburgh

74 votes

DeAndre Levy - Detroit

22 votes

Travis Beckum - NY Giants

40 votes

144 votes | Poll has closed