Cleveland Browns (Gen II- Mar19th to July 26th,2002)
Edited by Oct 31, 2002 9:25 pm
Same as the old folder just newer.
(2856 previous messages)
- Jul 18, 2002 11:27 pm (#2857 of 2974)
I drove by Dan S. possible new home today.
It is a big house, and with a little spit and polish can be very nice.
- Jul 18, 2002 11:56 pm (#2858 of 2974)
6 o'clock has passed. So what happened. Hell, I had my wife run out to get a gift certificate from Garden Ridge.
C'mon, Dan I'm sitting on pins and needles, here.
- Jul 19, 2002 12:51 am (#2859 of 2974)
Edited by Jul 18, 2002 5:52 pm
Rusty
If I knew any bigtime radio folks that could get me tickets I would be callin them too.
:-)
In the meantime I buy like the rest of you. Some bands just dont give out comp tickets.
For all your Bruce concert needs: http://www.backstreets.com/tour.html
Btw, I went to Ticketmaster last Saturday to buy Cleveland tickets. There was no one in line and I ended up with the option of GA floor seats (stupid idea) or Upper Level. Bought the upper levels at 75 bucks a pop....
- Jul 19, 2002 1:30 am (#2860 of 2974)
Hey Big Man,
I said purchase, not complimentary. Watcha take me for. One of those Clear Channel groupies. So ya got tickets for Cleveland on the sly, huh. Well, lucky you.
- Jul 19, 2002 1:51 am (#2861 of 2974)
Hey Jim, Bruce is scheduled in Greensboro on Nov. 16. So, what you are saying is I should attempt to purchase tickets at an out of state location?
- Jul 19, 2002 12:51 pm (#2862 of 2974)
BD must be getting soft saying if Green or EDavis miss a day or two of camp that it wont be all that bad. Guess BD loves these two..
:-)
Rusty
Yes, going to an out of state outlet can definitely help!
- Jul 19, 2002 1:23 pm (#2863 of 2974)
Since there was some discussion about the 80s/90s players, here are their bios from the official site.
Mike Pruitt-- A hard-nosed runner, Mike Pruitt topped the 1,000-yard rushing mark four times (1979-81, '83) in his nine seasons in Cleveland. His best season statistically came in 1979 when he rushed for a career-high 1,294 yards for the seventh-highest total in club history. Pruitt ranks third on the team's all-time rushing list with 6,540 yards and third with 47 rushing touchdowns. He was also a dangerous weapon out of the backfield, collecting 63 receptions in 1980 and '81. Pruitt, who joined the Browns in 1976 as a first-round draft choice, played in the 1980 and '81 Pro Bowls.
Kevin Mack-- Kevin Mack led the Browns in rushing in five of his eight seasons with the team, including a personal-best 1,104 yards in 1985. He combined with Earnest Byner (1,002) in '85 to become only the third teammates in NFL history to top the 1,000-yard mark in the same season. Mack's 5,123 career rushing yards ranks fifth on the team's all-time list and his 46 rushing touchdowns are the fourth highest total in Cleveland. A supplemental pick of the Browns in 1984, Mack played in the 1986 and '88 Pro Bowls.
Earnest Byner-- The heart and soul of Cleveland's offense during his career in Cleveland, Earnest Byner ranks sixth on the club's all-time rushing list with 3,349 yards. His 274 career receptions stand ninth in club annals and his 6,479 combined yards rank ninth on the Browns all-time list. He rushed for 1,002 yards in 1985, joining Kevin Mack (1,104 yards) as only the third set of teammates in NFL history to rush for 1,000 yards. Byner joined the Browns as a 10th round draft choice in 1984. He played in Cleveland from 1984-88 and rejoined the Browns in 1994-95 after a five-year (1989-93) stint with the Washington Redskins.
Clay Matthews-- Clay Matthews played in more games (232) than any other player in team history, however, he is best remembered as one of the league's finest linebackers throughout his career. His 16 seasons in Cleveland are second on the club's longevity list, trailing Lou Groza's 17 years with the Browns. Matthews holds the team record for quarterback sacks with 76.5. The former first-round draft choice (1978) was voted to four Pro Bowls (1986, '88, '89 and '90).
Hanford Dixon-- Hanford Dixon was "Top Dawg" of Cleveland's vaunted defensive backfield in the 1980s. He finished his career with 26 interceptions, tying him for eighth place on the Browns all-time list. Dixon recorded a career-high 5 interceptions in 1984 and '86. He played in three consecutive Pro Bowls (1987-89) and was widely regarded as one of the best cover-corners of his era. The Browns selected Dixon in the first round of the 1981 NFL Draft.
Frank Minnifield-- A mainstay at left cornerback from 1984-92, Frank Minnifield was recognized as one of the top cover corners throughout his career. He earned three consecutive trips (1988-90) to the Pro Bowl. Minnifield intercepted three passes against the Houston Oilers on Nov. 22, 1987, tallied a career-high 4 interceptions in 1987 and '88 and intercepted 20 passes in his nine seasons (1984-92) with the Browns. The Browns obtained Minnifield in 1984 through the NFL Supplemental Draft.
Bob Golic-- Bob Golic was commonly regarded as the best nose tackle in football in the mid-1980s. Golic did an exceptional job in clogging the middle of the line and allowing the linebackers in the team's 3-4 defensive scheme to make the tackles. He was a key contributor to the Browns defensive unit and helped the club to three consecutive division titles (1985-87) and two appearances in the AFC Championship Game (1986 and '87 seasons). Golic was voted to the Pro Bowl three consecutive years (1986-88).
Cody Risien-- Cody Risien anchored the Browns offensive line for more than a decade. He earned a starting spot midway through his rookie year at left guard and switched to right tackle in 1980 where he remained for the rest of his career. Risien helped the Browns to seven playoff appearances in his 10 seasons with the club. He was recognized for his outstanding play with two Pro Bowl (1987 and '88) nominations.
Eddie Johnson-- A punishing tackler from his inside linebacker post in Cleveland's 3-4 defensive scheme, Eddie Johnson played 10 seasons (1981-1990) with the Browns. Johnson was nicknamed "The Assassin" due to his bone-crushing hits. He tallied 712 tackles with the Browns, including a personal-best 172 stops in 1984. Johnson was a catalyst for the team's success in the 1980s, helping the Browns to three appearances in the AFC Championship Game in a four-year span.
Brian Brennan-- Brian Brennan was a clutch receiver for the Browns during his eight seasons (1984-91) with the club. He is fourth on the club's all-time list with 323 receptions and ninth with 4,148 receiving yards. He established career highs in 1986 with 55 catches (team high) for 838 yards and 6 touchdowns. Brennan's single-game highs include 10 catches against the Cincinnati Bengals on Oct. 18, 1987 and 176 receiving yards on Dec. 21, 1986. He was a fourth-round draft choice of the Browns in 1984.
- Jul 19, 2002 1:33 pm (#2864 of 2974)
Edited by Jul 19, 2002 6:35 am
This is why I am not afraid to let a 4th round draft pick take over for Jamir, if he's traded... if Butch believes it could work out, who am I to second guess. So far, he's made all the right moves...well, 95% of them are right anyway.
In 2001 a pair of second-round draft choices, Chicago tailback Anthony Thomas and Pittsburgh linebacker Kendrell Bell, captured the offensive and defensive rookie of the year awards. One year earlier a sixth-round afterthought, Denver running back Mike Anderson, took home offensive rookie of the year honors after posting the fifth-best numbers of any first-year players in NFL history.
- Jul 19, 2002 2:26 pm (#2865 of 2974)
Fourth-round pick in fold
Friday, July 19, 2002
The Cleveland Browns reached a contract agreement with fourth-round draft pick Ben Taylor, according to his agent, Robert Lattinville.
The linebacker from Virginia Tech agreed on a three-year deal with a signing bonus of $306,000. That leaves first-round pick William Green, second-rounder Andre Davis and third-rounder Melvin Fowler as the only unsigned Browns roookies.
The Spider - Jul 19, 2002 6:31 pm (#2866 of 2974)
Rusty, I've never smoked Natural area so I'd have to go with the grass.
- Jul 19, 2002 6:57 pm (#2867 of 2974)
Spider,
For a reefer ence on natural area. Ask Ricky Williams, he prefers grass.
- Jul 20, 2002 11:50 am (#2868 of 2974)
Green's agent coming to town"
Jul-20-02, 06:51 AM (EST)
Posted on Sat, Jul. 20, 2002
Browns report
Browns sign fourth-round pick; Green's agent coming to town
The draft picks keep trickling in.
The Browns now have signed five of their eight draft choices. Linebacker Ben Taylor (fourth round) agreed to terms on a three-year deal on Friday.
Only three picks remain unsigned: running back William Green, receiver Andre Davis and offensive lineman Melvin Fowler.
Fowler and Davis are expected to agree by Monday and be on the field on Tuesday, the first day of practice for rookies.
Green might or might not be ready on Day 1. His agent, Tom Condon, is flying to town Sunday and will meet with the Browns on Monday. The team's hope is that Green signs and practices on Tuesday.
- Jul 20, 2002 11:53 am (#2869 of 2974)
Holmes fully recovered and ready for camp
Browns middle linebacker Earl Holmes, who had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee just over a month ago, appears to be recovered and ready to go for training camp.
However, the Browns will be ultra-careful with him, as they will with several other significant players who are coming off injuries from last season in right guard Tre Johnson (torn quadriceps), defensive end Courtney Brown (severely sprained ankle) and tight end Rickey Dudley (torn foot ligament).
Dudley's situation may warrant the closest scrutiny since that can be a career-threatening injury. . . .
Browns coach Butch Davis is adamant about his team cutting down on mental mistakes this year. But it may not be easy, since 68 of the 88 players on the roster have three years or less of NFL experience. . . .
So much has been made of the huge strides center Dave Wohlabaugh made in the offseason strength and conditioning program. But there's a player on defense who has done the same thing in tackle Orpheus Roye.
Roye got rid of some of that weight and got leaner but stronger. Davis likes the potential of Mark Smith, but if Roye plays up to his potential, he should easily be the starter next to Gerard Warren.
Roye is quick and uses his hands extremely well. He's almost like a big end playing inside, as he has a nice combination of quickness, size and strength. . . .
Also at tackle, keep an eye on Marcus Spriggs. He has played just 18 games in three seasons because of various injuries, so the Browns really don't know a lot about him. They want to give him a real chance in camp to prove himself. . . .
The Browns will make sure to take a break in training camp about every five practices. Per a study the Cowboys did when he was in Dallas, Davis is convinced that after about five straight practices, players became fatigued and are much more prone to getting injured.
And after being devastated by injuries the last two seasons, the last thing the Browns need are more players on IR. . . .
Where do the Browns really need to improve this season? Answer: Running the ball and defending against the run. The Browns have especially struggled on third-and-short plays and in giving up long gainers. . . .
Davis believes reserve middle linebacker Brant Boyer is one of the 10 best special teams players in the league, and he may be right. Boyer isn't very big, but he's strong and has good instincts. He always seems to be around the ball.
QUARTERBACKS ANALYSIS
Unquestionably, this will be the defining season for Browns quarterback Tim Couch.
This will be the season in which he either proves he's the man who can someday take the Browns to the Super Bowl, or not. And if not, then the Browns are in big trouble.
They have invested so much time, money and effort in trying to develop Couch that they really haven't taken the time to develop a plan B. Kelly Holcomb or Josh Booty? As starters for a team that wants to get to the playoffs and maybe even beyond? Come on.
They are nice backups -- real nice, in fact. Holcomb has the steadiness that enables him to enter a game and not lose it. He may not win it, but he won't lose it, either.
Booty has good athletic ability and a strong arm. Davis envisions him as being extremely raw and untested, but having the potential at least to be a poor man's version of what Troy Aikman was for the Cowboys when he was coaching with them.
But despite all that, neither is ready right now, and the Browns need someone who's ready right now because their team is close to being ready. So that leaves it up to Couch, who has worked hard in the offseason to improve on blitz pickup.
Too many times last year, he got surprised by blitzes and ended up having to eat the ball or throw it away. Negative and non-productive plays killed the Browns last year. The Browns have given Couch more weapons and a better line.
Davis has stuck his neck out publicly to say that Couch is his guy. Now Couch has to go out and do it. There are no more excuses. This is his fourth year, and he needs to take that next step from being average to good.
- Jul 20, 2002 12:20 pm (#2870 of 2974)
Accoring to John Clayton of ESPN, six teams expressed an interest in free agent DL Daryl Gardener, released by the Miami Dolphins earlier Friday. The Bills and Packers may lead the way in the pursuit of Gardener.
- Jul 20, 2002 12:20 pm (#2871 of 2974)
The dolphins ate a 6 mil. cap hit for next year.
- Jul 21, 2002 11:19 am (#2872 of 2974)
Browns do value Johnson
Look at receiver's stats indicates productivity
By Patrick McManamon
One day this summer, a season-ticket holding buddy of mine asked what was going on with Kevin Johnson's contract.
I wondered: Why do you care?
Well, said the guy who has had season tickets since before the Brian Sipe era, I haven't heard anything about it, and I think this is one guy who could cause an uproar if the Browns don't keep him.
An uproar, I asked?
Yeah, he said. I think people would be really upset if they let this guy go. I've heard that from a lot of people.
Hmm, I thought. Then I realized he might have a point.
Johnson and the Browns are in an interesting situation. He's the first of the ``new'' Browns, the ones drafted after the team's return in 1999, who could become an unrestricted free agent after this season. He's been a major part of the team's offense the past three years, and he wants to keep it that way.
Training camp opens for rookies on Tuesday and veterans on Friday, and Johnson has made clear his desire to have his contract extended before the season opener. The only Brown to start every game the past three years wants to retire as a Brown.
The team insists it wants to keep him. Coach Butch Davis has it as a priority to have Johnson on the roster in 2002, 2003 and beyond.
A year ago, Johnson's name was bandied about in trade rumors. But Davis seems to have come full circle, to the point that he recently admitted to reporters that the offense had to have more than Kevin Johnson making all the plays.
Tom Condon, Johnson's agent, said last week that he had met twice with Browns vice president Lal Heneghan about a contract extension. What does Johnson want?
``I don't talk about contract figures in the media,'' Condon said.
Sources said the Browns' initial offering was the in the $10 million or $11 million range for three years. Safe to assume the starting point from the other side was higher.
So we'll just ask ourselves: What is a Kevin Johnson worth?
On the one hand, there's a perception in the league that Johnson is not a true No. 1 receiver, that he's too small and not quite fast enough. This is a matter of conjecture. I remember years ago an agent saying he had just signed a perennial Pro Bowl receiver to a lucrative extension, then heard the general manager say, ``I wish he were a little bigger, though.''
Receivers are supposed to be 6-foot-4 and run like deer.
Johnson isn't and doesn't.
But Johnson has (according to his teammates and the team) hands like Cris Carter's. And he's Tim Couch's most dependable receiver. He's also produced where it matters most -- on the field.
In three NFL seasons, Johnson has caught 207 passes for 2,752 yards and 17 touchdowns. Those numbers are better than Jerry Rice had in his first three seasons. And they're better than any of the NFL's top 10 all-time receivers had in their first three seasons (a list that includes Rice, James Lofton, Steve Largent, Andre Reed, Art Monk, Carter, Michael Irvin and Tim Brown).
Compare Johnson's numbers with the rest of the Browns' receivers the past three seasons.
Johnson has 207 career catches; all the rest of the receivers have 254. Johnson has 2,752 yards; the rest have 3,079. Johnson has 17 touchdowns; the rest have 10.
Johnson did all that for a team that lacked a running game and a consistent threat opposite him.
Some might say that Johnson's numbers are inflated precisely because there was no running game or No. 2 receiver -- who else could Couch throw to? But the past three years, the Browns had 133 fewer plays per year than the NFL average. That's a lot of missed opportunities.
So what is a Kevin Johnson worth? Peruse the recent deals of receivers.
Marty Booker -- who had one breakout season in 2001 -- signed a seven-year deal with Chicago that averaged $4 million per year and included a $5.5 million signing bonus.
The Giants' Amani Toomer averages $5.4 million per year, the Bills' Eric Moulds $6.3 million per year, the Bucs' Keyshawn Johnson $8.2 million per year.
Toomer was given a $7.5 million signing bonus. Moulds was given a $12 million signing bonus, and Keyshawn a $13 million signing bonus.
That's the market for receivers.
Keyshawn Johnson averaged 88 catches, 1,070 yards and 4.5 touchdowns in his two seasons in Tampa Bay. Kevin Johnson has averaged 69 catches, 917 yards and six touchdowns in his three seasons in Cleveland.
If Keyshawn Johnson is worth a $13 million signing bonus, is Kevin Johnson worth half that? Would the Browns be wise to offer their receiver a deal in the $4 million-per-year range? Would they be crazy to offer him a $6 million signing bonus?
Not when a third receiver with bad hands -- Az-Zahir Hakim -- gets a $5.25 million signing bonus in Detroit. And not when the Browns have a contract negotiator like Lal Heneghan working out deals. Davis is very wary of putting the team in ``cap jail'' in future years with large deals, but Heneghan is adept at making sure those contracts don't hurt down the road.
The next move for the Browns might be to consider a split signing bonus; Johnson gets some now, some in two years. Johnson's side will be trying to get what it can, which is the way things work. The good thing is the two sides will keep talking, and both seem sincere in trying to work out a deal.
What Johnson is worth in dollars and cents ultimately will be determined in negotiations.
But Johnson's numbers already have determined one thing: He is definitely worth keeping.
- Jul 21, 2002 1:29 pm (#2873 of 2974)
Has anyone noticed how much BTNG has sucked for quite awhile?
They update the news wire about once every three days. The tip line gets updated about the same.
The insiders have been AWOL from the forums for a long time.
The insiders have put out what one article in the last month?
I can understand that alot of it is due to the NFL lull, but people are paying money for their services.
And when there are negotiations going on with all our draft choices and two starters, you would think an occasional update might be in order.
BTNG used to be one of the first places to scan for new and breaking Browns news.
Now it is one of the last.
If we let KJ walk it will be like Phil letting Carter go. We will watch him be a star for another team for years.
Forget the too small too slow bullshit. He is a player. He gets open and when the ball gets near him he catches it. I have seen nothing out of any other WR on our roster that proves they can do that. Sure many of them are bigger and/or faster but thus far none of them can hold his jock as a player.
Now sure there are cap considerations and you can't tie up too much money on one player. But KJ has voiced a desire to play here and except for Butchie's PR there is nothing to indicate his asking price is out of line.
Sign KJ.
BTNG sucks, they were good and got alot of peoples money and just sat back and took their profits and do squat right now. Seems all those kind of sites are great for awhile and then go down hill fast or just disappear. Too bad. Hopefully someone will start a new one.
Pancho - Jul 21, 2002 3:04 pm (#2875 of 2974)
Forget the too small too slow bullshit. He is a player. He gets open and when the ball gets near him he catches it.
I agree 100%, CP.
Too many people in and around the NFL are fascinated by speed and/or size and nothing else. It doesn't even matter how good of an overall wide receiver you are if you lack these.
Give me KJ.
Much like the young Cris Carter... All KJ does is make plays. Throw everything else out the window.
With that said I don't pay him like a top 5 WR. He's not an eliet WR and should not be paid like one. I would however pay him like a #1 and a top 10 WR. If he has a brain he will take it. All one needs do is look at how flat the FA market was this year and it becomes pretty obvious that a players value to their own team is in many cases greater these days than it is on the open market. We should make KJ a fair deal and he should take it.
As for the house! Thank you all for keeping us in your thoughts. We got a counter offer that was almost exactly what we expected to pay with more stuff done to the house befor closing than we expected to get. In other words we got a better deal than we had hoped for in many regards. We did in fact accept the counter offer and will be working on the money end monday and closing on the 30th of Aug. at the latest if all works out.
When we close everyone is welocme to drop in and visit and see the "befor" house. We allready have all sorts of things planned and are looking forward to spitting on and polishing the house as Mark put it. We are only two blocks from Franklin Park and not much farther from I-70 (on the right side of the dreaded 70-71 split!)
We're excited to have found a house with awsome potential in a growing neighborhood at an attractive price and once again thank you all for keeping us in your thoughts!
- Jul 22, 2002 2:50 am (#2877 of 2974)
Green - Browns Closing In On Deal
by Lane Adkins of BerniesInsiders.com, July 21, 2002 at 7:02pm ET
William Green Profile
Sources close to the Cleveland Browns have informed Bernie's Insiders that the Browns first-round draft choice, running back William Green is close to an agreement with the team on a contract.
The source tells Bernie's Insiders that the goal of Green is to be on the playing field for the Browns first rookie practice in training camp, which is to begin on Tuesday.
- Jul 22, 2002 2:52 am (#2878 of 2974)
Davis Signing Near
by Lane Adkins of BerniesInsiders.com, July 21, 2002 at 6:54pm ET
Andre Davis Profile
Numerous media outlets report that the Cleveland Browns second-round draft choice, wide receiver Andre Davis will come to terms with the team prior to the teams training camp with starts for rookies on Tuesday July 23rd. Bernie's Insiders has learned that the Browns and representatives for Davis have reached an agreement in principle on a contract.
- Jul 22, 2002 12:31 pm (#2879 of 2974)
From the Baltimore Sun:
"I've had my time in this league. I hope that I've done right by a lot of people. I promised a certain team when I came to Baltimore, and I think I have delivered. The last game I see as the Baltimore Ravens owner will be emotional. I'm sure of it."...Art Modell
- Jul 22, 2002 12:36 pm (#2880 of 2974)
Expectations await Browns, Davis
07/22/02
Tony Grossi
Plain Dealer Reporter
At Butch Davis' second training camp as coach of the Browns, expectations are higher and the stakes are higher.
In Davis' mind, his team is only 2 years old. But for 18 remaining players who suffered the rigors of expansion in 1999 - not to mention ownership and fans - the unofficial timeline called for playoffs in 2002.
Try Our Classifieds
Davis spent the majority of last season pounding it into his players that they were winners. They more than doubled their victory total from three to seven. Now he has to convince them the hard part is just beginning.
"I have to keep reminding myself after 18 months on the job - as much as I want to get going - that 68 of the 88 players we've got under contract still have three years or less [NFL experience]," Davis said. "There are steps they have to make.
"We have to be very careful about getting the cart in front of the horse in our attempts to try to win games and get prepared for preseason games. There's still a lot of teaching and things that have to be learned."
Expectations are high because of last year's win improvement, because Davis knows his players better, and because of a second wave of personnel additions orchestrated by Davis.
Davis notes many of the key figures he is counting on to elevate the team - William Green, Quincy Morgan, Andre Davis, Gerard Warren - are rookies or second-year players.
"People have to understand the youth of the team, the process you come through in building a team," he said. "But certainly there's reason for optimism. Our football team believes, rightfully so, that we have a chance to win every game and be competitive. The thing you can never speak to is injuries."
To head off the injury bug that plagued the team for two years, Davis hired a new strength coach and revamped the off-season conditioning program. He believes his team is physically tougher and better suited to avert injuries. He also will try to give his players a break every five practices to avoid fatigue, when the chance of injury multiplies.
In a change from last year, Davis will not conduct an intrasquad team scrimmage until five full practice sessions. He said he rushed it last year.
"I would say there's probably going to be 25 to 50 things that will be different this year," Davis said.
"Structure of practice, length of practice, installations, meeting schedules, the way we travel. We've had a chance to go look at a lot of things. I'm still a big believer that the structure of your training camp needs to be very conducive to not only the growth of your team, but the health of your team."
On the field, the emphasis in training camp will focus on three major weaknesses of last year's team - stopping the run on defense, running the ball on offense and special teams.
"Defensively, we did a very poor job on first-down run defense and third-and-short run defense," Davis said. "On first downs, it was feast or famine. We'd go from a big play . . . or they'd make 4-5 yards. In short yardage, at best, you stop them two out of 10 times. If you can get to 30 to 40 percent stopping teams on third-and-1, you're one of the elite teams in the league defensively.
"Offensively, it's going to be geared mostly about running the football. We had some success last year when we took advantage of schemes rather than just personnel. Sometimes, you've got to just line up and block some guys. There's going to be an emphasis on being able to run the ball when they don't want you to run the ball.
"On special teams, we've got one of the league's best deep snappers, one of the best punters and one of the best field-goal accuracy and extra-point kickers. We just didn't cover kicks as well as we should. And on returns, we left hundreds of yards on the field over the course of the season where we had very good blocking."
Davis' full team won't take the field until Friday. All rookies and about 20 selected veterans will get a head start with three days of limited practices (closed to the public) beginning tomorrow.
"This is about a 45-day march [to the season opener], where there's about four hours of sleep a day," Davis said.
And he just was referring to the coaches.
- Jul 22, 2002 11:40 pm (#2881 of 2974)
And now there is one.
The Browns have agreed to terms with second round draft pick Andre
Davis and third round pick Melvin Fowler, leaving first round pick
William Green as the teams only draft pick without a contract.
The deals with Davis and Fowler were finalized Monday and both reported
for training camp on time. Rookies and selected veterans (36 players in
all) take the field Tuesday afternoon for the official opening of the
2002 season.
Davis, a graduate of Virginia Tech, signed a four-year deal with the
Browns. He is a speedy, smart receiver who figures to be a deep threat
for Tim Couch and also a dangerous kick returner. Davis enters his
first professional training camp in a crowded race for playing time at
wide receiver and figures to contribute immediately on special teams.
Fowler, whose contract is for three seasons, started every game of his
University of Maryland career at center and earned All-ACC honors three
times. He enters camp as a backup at both center and guard.
Dan Hallett
- Jul 23, 2002 1:57 am (#2882 of 2974)
Thanks, Heater.
DanS
Good luck with that one. I stay away from 71 and 70.. Both are terrible with traffic.
- Jul 23, 2002 12:01 pm (#2884 of 2974)
Green Getting Closer
by Lane Adkins of BerniesInsiders.com, July 23, 2002 at 7:34am ET
William Green Profile
Sources indicated to Bernie's Insiders late last night that rookie running back William Green and the Browns have made progress in contract talks.
According to the source, the contract is about 85% complete as representatives for Green and the Browns continue to debate the voidable years, contract duration and bonus issues.
Though there appear to be many issues to resolve, there really aren't. All the issues stated are tied together and both parties are compromising.
While it is unlikely that Green will be signed to take the field for the first rookie practice of training camp, both sides believe that a contract can be completed within the next couple days.
- Jul 23, 2002 12:33 pm (#2885 of 2974)
Edited by Jul 23, 2002 5:33 am
Davis, a receiver from Virginia Tech, signed a four-year deal worth $2,812,500. It includes a $1.3 million signing bonus and base salaries of $275,000, $343,750, $412,500 and $481,250.
Pancho - Jul 23, 2002 6:21 pm (#2886 of 2974)
Browns | Johnson's Deal Comes After Green's - posted at KFFL (http://nfl.kffl.com)
10:49 PT: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports Cleveland Browns WR Kevin Johnson will wait until his agent, Tom
Condon, has worked out rookie RB William Green's contract, before pursuing a new contract. Johnson rejected the
Brown's offer of $10 million for three years.
- Jul 23, 2002 6:56 pm (#2887 of 2974)
The first player to be handed a pink slip at minicamp was defensive end Derrick Ham. Ham, who played for Butch Davis at the University of Miami, never had a chance to step on the practice field Tuesday. Ham was signed by Washington as an undrafted rookie in 1999 and spent one week on the Redskins' practice squad. He was inactive for 15 games in 2000. Ham was signed to Cleveland's practice squad last Dec. 20. He appeared in one game, against Tennessee.
- Jul 23, 2002 7:01 pm (#2888 of 2974)
Ouch!
- Jul 23, 2002 7:03 pm (#2889 of 2974)
Holmes looking to be a force in the middle of the Browns defense
07.23.02
By Matt Loede
Site Editor
BEREA, Ohio - As the Browns welcomed their rookies to the first day of practice on Tuesday, one veteran player that was already there ready to go was new linebacker Earl Holmes.
Holmes was one of the selected vets that was asked to come in early, partially due being a new player on the team as well as since he was just getting past having a minor procedure done on his knee.
The former Steeler was quick to put to rest the talk of the knee injury, which kept him from playing in last years AFC title game against New England, keeping him off the playing field.
"I went through all the offseason stuff and the mini-camps, and I didn't miss nothing," Holmes said. "It was just a matter of me saying 'you know what, I'm tired of this nagging problem, let's go head and clear this up."
The Browns are hoping that Holmes, a 7-year vet from Florida A&M, will return to the form that allowed him to accumulate 118 tackles with the Steelers last season playing at on of the middle linebacker spots in the 3-4.
Changing from the 3-4 to the 4-3 has been another hot topic that Holmes has had to address, and he says that by the end of camp it won't be an issue.
"That's what got me here in the NFL, playing a 4-3 defense in college," Holmes said. "It's different, I haven't played in a 4-3 package in a long time, but that's what training camps and all the mini-camps are for.
"By the time I come out of training camp I'll have my timing down," Holmes said. "We'll all have our timing down as a team, and that's the most important thing. I'm not the only new guy here, there's four or five other new guys."
The 6-foot-2, 250 pound LB says that it could be a huge season for the Brown and Orange if everyone's on the same page. "Once we go through training camp and get our timing down, the skies the limit."
So what is the big difference between the 3-4 and the 4-3? In the NFL Holmes says it mostly has to do with how things are phrased in each defense.
"There's some things that are different about a 4-3 and a 3-4," Holmes said. "The terminology is a lot different, but that's the fun of the game and that's the grind of training camp, there's no doubt about it.
"It's the best time to get the timing down and get ready to play," Holmes said.
The Browns want Holmes to be the one most responsible for taking down the ball carriers. In 1999 and 2000 with the Steelers he had 144 and then 141 tackles in each season. Will the role be the same with the Browns?
"I think I had a key role in Pittsburgh, it was just my time to move on and do better things," Holmes said. "I talked to my family and talked to my Mom, and I came here on a visit and they were open minded and they were talking my kind of talk.
"I'm a professional and I love the challenges, and I'm ready for the challenges," Holmes said.
- Jul 23, 2002 7:04 pm (#2890 of 2974)
Browns rookie OL Folwer looking to make an impact
07.23.02
By Matt Loede
Site Editor
BEREA, Ohio - To be a third-round pick on a NFL team and be counted on must mean that they think your someone special. That's exactly the position that Browns rookie OL Melvin Folwer finds himself in.
Folwer, who signed a three-year deal Monday to ensure he would be in Berea for the first day of camp Tuesday, started every game of his University of Maryland career at center and earned All-ACC honors three times.
In a position (offensive line) that has haunted the Browns since their return in 1999, Folwer finds himself in a lucky spot in which he may be counted on more than he knows.
"My role is to learn the offense, the plays and to perform and execute and help this team in anyway I can," Folwer said. "I'm excited, and I'm looking forward to doing everything I just said."
Folwer, who enters camp as a backup at both center and guard, is a mountain at 6-foot-3, 300 pounds, but is well aware of what will be the biggest transition from college to the pros.
"The speed of the game and the players, there bigger, stronger and faster," Folwer said. "That's going to be the biggest adjustment."
Folwer did not allow a QB sack in four years as a starter at Maryland, something that surely will make QB Tim Couch smile.
Now the only question is: will the linemen do enough this summer to get a chance to protect Couch in the fall
- Jul 23, 2002 7:18 pm (#2891 of 2974)
Tuesday, July 23
Ravens' owner in hospital after stroke
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Associated Press
OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Baltimore Ravens owner Art Modell remained hospitalized Tuesday for a mild stroke, but plans to attend the opening Friday of his 42nd training camp as an owner.
Modell was resting at Johns Hopkins Hospital on Tuesday and was expected to be released Wednesday, team spokesman Chad Steele said.
"He definitely wants to be at camp -- I don't know if Mrs. Modell wants him to be there -- we're just going to have to wait and see,'' Steele said.
Modell, 76, was admitted to Johns Hopkins Hospital on Sunday, marking the second time in three months that the Ravens' owner has been hospitalized for an illness. In April, he suffered a mild heart attack at his California vacation home.
Modell said he is feeling better and ready for head coach Brian Billick to open camp on Friday.
"Tell Brian I'll be ready for gassers by the weekend,'' Modell said in a statement released by the team.
- Jul 23, 2002 9:13 pm (#2892 of 2974)
Prepared to take the leap?
Comparing the 1985 team to the 2001 version of the Browns:
1985 Category 2001
2885 Passing offense 3154 *
2285 * Rushing offense 1351
35 * Touchdowns 31
37% * 3rd Down Conv. 32%
28:52 * Time of Poss. 28:16
287 * Points Scored For 285
295 * Points Scored Against 319
36 Turnovers (ball lost) 30 *
27 Turnovers (ball gained) 42 *
Other similarities:
The 85 team was 8-8 while the 01 version was 7-9. Each had a 4 game skid and 3 game win streaks.
Both finished the first half of the schedule at 4-4.
The 1985 team had Ozzie Newsome leading the team in receptions, followed by a RB. The 01 team had Johnson followed by a RB (White).
The 85 team averaged 17.9 points per game on offense. The 01 team averaged 17.8 points.
For all the complaints, the 01 team actually had a higher average in the punt return game (8.0 to 7.9 for the 85 team).
Pancho - Jul 23, 2002 9:19 pm (#2893 of 2974)
The big difference was in '85, Byner and Mack each went over 1,000 yards ... and the '85 team made the playoffs. Easily could have beaten Miami in the first round, too.
- Jul 23, 2002 10:27 pm (#2894 of 2974)
Darnell Sanders surprised Butch Davis somewhat with his receiving skills in day one on the practice field. "You'd never know he comes from a college (Ohio State) that didn't throw him the ball that much," Davis said. "You would think that they threw him 60 to 65 passes a season. Plus, he can block.
- Jul 23, 2002 10:30 pm (#2895 of 2974)
It Starts!! Afternoon Update from Berea
By David Carducci
Date: Jul 23, 2002
Who impressed during the first afternoon practice of training camp? Which veterans were there, and which ones weren't? Which rookie motivated Butch Davis to jump into a pile to deliver a high five?
The answers are in David Carducci's Training Camp notes, exclusively on Bernie's Insiders.
With William Green yet to sign a contract, James Jackson is benefiting from taking all of the snaps at running back. Jackson will be the only running back in camp until Green signs or until the rest of the veterans report Friday afternoon.
In just a few short drills, Jackson showed that he has fully recovered from the left ankle injury that forced him to miss five games during his rookie season. He was agile and energetic, carrying the ball over and over without a break during a spirited 9-on-9 drill.
The Browns had 35 players in uniform, including a handful of selected veterans, most of whom finished last season with injuries. Among the veterans participating Tuesday were Jackson, Earl Holmes, Lewis Sanders, Tyrone Rogers, Rickey Dudley, Mark Campbell, Arnold Miller, Paul Zukauskas, Marcus Spriggs, Chris Sanders and Michael Jameson. The quarterbacks were Josh Booty and Kevin Thompson. Tim Couch, who has attended with the rookies in previous years, was not on the field.
Shaun O'Hara was not in uniform, but the third-year linemen practiced long snaps off to the side with free-agent punter-kicker Jay Taylor. Lamar Chapman watched from the sidelines with a brace on his left knee.
The highlight of the afternoon was provided by middle linebacker Andra Davis, who shed a block and quickly found his way through traffic to stop Jackson on a run between right tackle Joaquin Gonzalez and right guard Qasim Mitchell.
Andra Davis' play drew raves from Butch Davis, who jumped into the middle of the pile to high-five the rookie linebacker.
Butch Davis showed Earl Holmes that he is counting onthe veteran free agent to be a key in run defense, yelling "cause a wreck Earl, cause a wreck" as the linebackers maneuvered around cones during one drill. It's hard to get a feel for a player from watching half of just one practice, but Kevin Bentley looked exceptionally quick during individual work.
On the negative side, rookie free agent guard Qasim Mitchell false started twice during 9-on-9 drills. Tight end Alvin Morrow also jumped early.
Pancho - Jul 23, 2002 10:36 pm (#2896 of 2974)
Browns | Denson to Visit Thursday - posted at KFFL (http://nfl.kffl.com)
14:48 PT: The Cleveland Browns will have free agent RB Autry Denson in town on Thursday to meet with the team.
Pancho - Jul 23, 2002 10:36 pm (#2897 of 2974)
Lots of first round picks are signing now. Here's to hoping Green is ... well ... next.
- Jul 23, 2002 11:43 pm (#2898 of 2974)
Day One In The Books
By Zac Jackson
This report filed July 23, 2002
The Browns three rookie linebackers—Kevin Bentley, Ben Taylor and Andra Davis—impressed Browns Head Coach Butch Davis as training camp for rookies and selected veterans opened Tuesday.
While Bentley, Taylor and Davis adjust to the speed of the NFL game, veteran Earl Holmes is adjusting to his new team. And, thanks to minor knee surgery he had last month, Holmes’ on field adjustment is happening faster than it was earlier this spring.
“Earl moved around considerably better today than he did in Quarterback School and minicamp,” Butch Davis said. “He’s not 100 percent right now but he’s got six more weeks before the first real game.”
Holmes, the Steelers’ leading tackler in each of the last three seasons before signing with Cleveland in April, is the only veteran linebacker in camp this week. He’ll participate on somewhat of a limited basis when full squad camp begins Friday, being very cautious of the knee and practicing only once during two-a-day sessions.
“We’re going to be smart about it. That’s the most important thing,” Holmes said. “We don’t want to push it and aggravate it so by the time the season starts I’m back down again. We just have to take it slow and do the right thing, the best thing.
“By the time the season starts I’ll be more than ready. I’ll be ready before then. We just want to ease into it. There’s no sense in jumping out there.”
Holmes was a tough inside linebacker in Pittsburgh’s aggressive 3-4 defense and will use this training camp to get acclimated with the Browns’ 4-3 scheme, an alignment he shined in during his college years (1992-95) but hasn’t played in since.
“Things are different, calls are different,” Holmes said. “The terminology between a 3-4 and a 4-3 is a lot different. But that’s the fun of the game, the fun of training camp. Now’s the time to get everything down.
“It’s another step. I’m ready for the challenge.”
Davis spoke to Holmes’ ability to be a force as the middle linebacker in a 4-3 defense.
“We (the University of Miami) played against his Florida A&M team in his senior year (1995) and Earl was hands down, without question, the most talented defensive player we played against that year,” he said. “We could barely even come close to blocking him because he’s got such good instincts.”
STILL WAITING—Here’s what Davis had to say about William Green’s contract situation: “Our conversations (Monday) went very well. We set some guidelines, boundaries and parameters of where everybody is starting.”
The waiting game is part of the process of signing NFL first round picks as agents and teams slot and stack financial figures based on draft position. Seven first round picks had signed contracts by Tuesday afternoon—the top three overall selections and four players who were drafted between 21 and 31 in April. Green was the 16th pick.
“With the slotting and the way guys manipulate things, the more people that start to fall into place…it starts to put some clear definition,” Davis said. “Some more of those guys are starting to sign. There are no negatives right now. I think everything is perceived to be good.”
With Green absent, James Jackson took every snap at running back in Tuesday’s practice.
MIDDLE MAN—With just five offensive linemen participating, third round draft pick Melvin Fowler will play exclusively at center this week. Davis said Fowler will split time evenly between guard and center when the full squad reports.
- Jul 23, 2002 11:45 pm (#2899 of 2974)
ROSTER MOVE—Defensive end Derrick Ham was waived to clear a roster spot for Green when his contract is completed. When Green signs the Browns will have 88 players in camp.
HEAD COUNT—A breakdown of who’s in camp for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Quarterbacks (2)—Josh Booty and Kevin Thompson.
Running backs (1)—James Jackson.
Wide receivers (4)—Chris Sanders, Andre’ Davis, Dimitrius Breedlove, Frisman Jackson.
Tight end/H-Back (5)—Rickey Dudley, Mark Campbell, Alvin Morrow, Ben Miller, Chris Eitzmann.
Offensive linemen (5)—Melvin Fowler, Brad Bedell, Joaquin Gonzalez, Qasim Mitchell, Konrad Dean
Defensive linemen (8)—Mark Smith, Tyrone Rogers, Marcus Spriggs, Mark Word, Arnold Miller, DeVone Claybrooks, Damian Gregory, Michael Josiah
Linebackers (4)—Earl Holmes, Ben Taylor, Kevin Bentley, Andra Davis.
Defensive backs (6)—Lewis Sanders, Michael Jameson, Lamar Chapman, Earthwind Moreland, Calvin Spears, Kalvin Pearson.
Kickers (1)—Jay Taylor.
Chapman, Moreland, Claybrooks, Eitzmann and Pittman were injured and did not participate in Tuesday’s practice.
- Jul 24, 2002 1:52 am (#2900 of 2974)
Training Camp - Day One Recap
By Mike McLain
Date: Jul 23, 2002
Get the latest on William Green. Learn about the rookie linebackers. A tight-end emerges from the depths of injury and youth is the center of attention.
Day one of training camp is complete, and William Green remains a holdout.
Green, the Browns' first-round draft choice, is the only unsigned player on the roster. Tom Condon, Green's agent, has been in lengthy discussions with Lal Heneghan, the Browns' point man on talks. It appears something could be finalized in the near future.
Davis is remaining patient as he awaits the arrival of the player he hopes will add spark to the ground game.
"Conversations yesterday (Monday) went very well," Davis said. "It put some clear boundaries and guidelines as to where everybody started. With the slotting that takes place, the more people around him who sign, it gives us some clear definition."
Davis said last week that it wouldn't be surprising if Green wasn't signed by the start of camp, but he didn't expect a lengthy holdout. He remains confident that Green will soon be on the field.
"There are no negatives. Right now things are preceding pretty well," Davis said. James Jackson, one of the early veteran arrivals, took all the repetitions at running back during the practice. Jackson finished last season on the injured-reserve list with an ankle injury.
As of Tuesday, just eight first-round draft picks had agreed to terms.
BRIGHT SPOTS: Davis spent most of practice watching the linebackers and the H-backs and tight ends. He liked what he saw of the linebackers, a group that included early arrival Earl Holmes.
"The three rookie linebackers (Kevin Bentley, Ben Taylor and Andra Davis) showed flashes of instinct. They filled holes; they were downhill. Although there was no tackling, there were some collisions. There was a little bit of a nasty attitude. They made some pops."
The tight ends and H-backs also caught the attention of Davis.
"It was good to see Rickey Dudley out there. He was 200 percent better than he was in the quarterback school," Davis said. "He made one difficult catch that was down below his knees."
Mark Campbell, another of the veterans on hand, was singled out by Davis for his showing. Davis also spoke highly of rookie tight end Darnell Sanders and Alvin Morrow, a former baseball player who signed with the Browns near the end of last season.
KEY YEAR: Davis is hoping for big things from third-year cornerback Lewis Sanders, who missed last season after having surgery to remove a calcium deposit from his leg. Sanders showed promise two years ago and is being counted on as one of the top-four cornerbacks.
"He has whetted everybody's anticipations because you see flashes. When he is healthy and out there, he's very physically gifted. Unlike a lot of corners he's big, he's physical and he can run. One of these days - and maybe this is the season - he's going to have a season when he's healthy. If he does, he's going to be a real impact player on the corner."
CENTER OF ATTENTION: Third-round draft choice Melvin Fowler practiced at center in the absence of Dave Wohlabaugh. He was surrounded by guards Qasim Mitchell and Brad Bedell, and tackles Joaquin Gonzalez and Konrad Dean.
Davis plans to equally divide Fowler's repetitions between center and guard. On a normal schedule, Fowler will work at center for two practices and at guard the next two.
ON SALE: Based on returns from visiting teams, additional tickets for the Browns' two home preseason games (Aug. 17 against Detroit and Aug. 30 against Carolina) have been made available to the public. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster Phone Centers (216-241-5555), Ticketmaster outlets or at www.ticketmaster.com.
- Jul 24, 2002 1:53 am (#2901 of 2974)
The Latest From Training Camp
By Dave Carducci
Date: Jul 23, 2002
A couple injured Browns progressing nicely. An almost unknown has caught the eye of Davis as an H-back. Could the trio of drafted linebackers be key to the Browns success?
GREEN UPDATE ... William Green was not on the practice field Tuesday afternoon when the Cleveland Browns kicked off their second training camp under Butch Davis, but the coach did not seem disheartened by the absence of the team's first-round pick.
Practicing without Green was pretty much what Davis expected at the start of camp. According to Davis, negotiations between Browns vice president and assistant director of football operations Lal Heneghan and Green's agent, Tom Condon, are right where they should be at this stage of the game.
"There are no negatives as of now," said Davis. "I think everything is proceeding pretty good."
The holdup on the contract has to do with slotting his salary numbers to fit in comparably with the rookies who were drafted near him.
"In the first round, there are probably five or six guys who have signed," said Davis. "With the slotting and the way guys manipulate things, the more people that start to fall into place ... then there starts to be a clearer definition."
For Now, Davis was happy just to have the group of 35 rookies and selected veterans on the field for the start of training camp.
"We got off to a good start," said Davis. "I think it's been a long, full four and a half weeks since we broke from the quarterback school, and I think the players were chomping at the bit. We've been standing around here for the last two and a half days, waiting for something to do. It was good to get back out there. I think the players were eager. They were excited."
MORROW AT H-BACK? ... Butch Davis hinted that the Browns are looking at Alvin Morrow as a project for the H-Back position.
"He is a guy not many people know a whole lot about, but he is an extraordinarily gifted and talented athlete," said Davis. "He has an opportunity to be a Mike Sellers type of an athlete. He is amazingly gifted for as big as he is, at 265-270 pounds. He can run and he can catch and he's a real good athlete."
Morrow is listed as 6-foot-3, 260 pounds. After starring in football in high school and signing to play at Florida State, he decided to give up football in favor of a career in baseball. Morrow was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the second round of the 1997 draft. He played outfield for three and a half years in the Brewers organization before being traded to the Blue Jays in 2000, where he played for almost two seasons. He gave up baseball and signed with the Browns as a free agent on Dec. 26, 2001.
ENCOURAGING SIGHT ... Earl Holmes and Rickey Dudley look to be on track to being 100-percent healthy for the start of the regular season.
Holmes appears to have benefited from minor surgery on his knee during the off season.
"He moved around considerably better than did in the quarterback schools and minicamps," said Davis. "I don't think he's 100pct right now, but he has six more weeks until the first real game, and there isn't any doubt (he'll be ready)."
Dudley, who missed the final 12 games of last year after surgery to repair a right mid foot sprain, moved well and made some difficult catches Tuesday.
"It was good to see Dudley out there running," said Davis. "He was 200-percent better than he was during quarterback school and minicamp. He was cutting on that foot and making catches. One was way down below his knees."
WHO IMPRESSED? ... Davis singled out the linebackers and the tight ends-H-Backs as the groups who opened some eyes on the first day of camp.
Holmes was joined at linebacker by the Browns' trio of draft picks - Ben Taylor, Andra Davis and Kevin Bentley.
"I really liked what I saw out of the linebackers," said Davis. "I thought the three rookie linebackers ... showed flashes of instincts. They filled holes ... and although we didn't tackle, they had a little bit of a collision. There was a little bit of a nasty attitude. They made some pops."
At tight end, Davis said he was pleased with the play of Mark Campbell, who has recovered from a knee injury that kept him out all of 2001, and rookie Darnell Sanders, in addition to Dudley and Morrow.
"Sanders caught the ball real well," said Davis. "He is a pleasant surprise. Given the number of catches he had in his Ohio State career, he catches the ball as if he went to a school where he caught the ball 65 times over the course of a season. He has very, very soft, Supple hands ... and he comes from an accomplished background as a blocker."
- Jul 24, 2002 3:16 am (#2902 of 2974)
Just to show you how times are changing in Cleveland...
WUAB has a 15 minute sports porgram every night. Tonight they spent the first 8 minutes on the Browns training camp, and interviews. They spent only 3 minutes total on the Indians/Yankees highlights and interviews....
- Jul 24, 2002 1:07 pm (#2903 of 2974)
Edited by Jul 24, 2002 6:08 am
HELP!!!
What's the status of being able to watch pre-season games via satellite now?
I heard the NFL changed rules or something.
Anyone?
- Jul 24, 2002 1:21 pm (#2904 of 2974)
Heater- I don't know.
- Jul 24, 2002 1:21 pm (#2905 of 2974)
Talks ongoing with No. 1 pick
Jackson making the most of Green's absence from camp
By Sean McClelland
Dayton Daily News
BEREA | The Browns downplayed their concern Tuesday as top draft choice William Green officially became a holdout.
Talks with agent Tom Condon are ongoing.
"The only thing I would say is that the conversations are going very well," coach Butch Davis said. "There's no negatives right now. I think everything is proceeding pretty good."
Benefiting most in the short term is James Jackson. He's the only running back in camp until Friday and will take all the reps. This week is mainly for rookies, but Jackson, a second-year player, is coming off an injury and was told to report early.
The Browns are hoping a few first-rounders around the league come to terms in the next couple of days, further defining the market for Green, the No. 16 overall pick.
"With the slotting and the way it falls, the more people that start to fall into place, the clearer definition you get," Davis said.
The team would consider it a triumph if it can get Green into camp by Friday for the first full-squad workout. The seven other draft choices, all signed, took part in Tuesday's workout.
Rehab central
Among the rehabbing veterans asked to report early are several who figure prominently, including middle linebacker Earl Holmes (knee), defensive tackle Marcus Spriggs (forearm) and tight ends Mark Campbell (knee) and Rickey Dudley (foot). Others looking to stay healthy and make an impact include defensive end Arnold Miller (foot), cornerback Lewis Sanders (leg) and safety Michael Jameson (ankle).
Dudley and Campbell looked sharp in passing drills. Davis also praised the work of rookie linebackers Ben Taylor, Andra Davis and Kevin Bentley.
Of all the draft choices, second-round receiver Andre Davis and third-round guard/center Mel Fowler seemed happiest to be here. Their deals got done Monday night. Said Davis, summing up the plight of first-year players everywhere, "All rookies are pretty much hated until they get out and prove themselves."
Roster move
It wasn't a good day to be Derrick Ham. The Browns released the former University of Miami defensive end, trimming the roster to 87. Ham appeared in one game last season.
- Jul 24, 2002 1:57 pm (#2906 of 2974)
Elam headed for a long holdout with Denver
07.24.02
Bad news for Broncos fans and bad news for one of the best kickers in the league. It appears that Denver kicker Jason Elam and the Broncos are still pretty far away on a new deal that would secure his services with the Broncos.
Elam was designated with the franchise tag, but has not agreed to sign the offer. The holdup appears to be that Elam does not want the same tag placed upon him in 2003, and he asked for an addendum to the $1.465 tender that was offered to him.
It appears that Elam and the Broncos could have a lengthy holdout that could have him missing a good part of this years training camp.
- Jul 24, 2002 2:13 pm (#2907 of 2974)
Updating an ongoing storyline, the Cincinnati Post reports sources say free agent DT Sam Adams (Ravens) is no longer interested in signing with the Cincinnati Bengals. He is most interested in Denver, Seattle or returning to Baltimore, the source said.
- Jul 24, 2002 7:22 pm (#2908 of 2974)
This might seem strange considering all the talk we've heard about Joaquin Gonzalez needing to add weight. Gonzalez had to lose seven pounds to reach the 305-pound reporting weight he was assigned. Gonzalez was constantly trying to add weight while at the University of Miami. When he went home for two weeks recently, he had to turn away some of the tasty Cuban dishes his mom had prepared. Better to turn away the food than take a fine of about $170 per day for each pound he might have been over his limit. The plan is for Gonzalez to add weight in small increments in coming years. Ideally, he wants to play between 310 and 315 pounds.
- Jul 24, 2002 7:31 pm (#2909 of 2974)
5 things that need to happen for the Browns to win big in 2002
07.23.02
By Tony Rizzo
1.) The Browns stay healthy.
Let's face it, for Butch Davis to win 7 games with 16 players on I.R. last year was flat-out freakery! Look at any team over the last 30 years that had any amount of success in the NFL and their injuries were few. There is no scientific way to avoid them but the Browns have their theories. They have a new strength and conditioning coach with a different philosophy, players are stronger but also more flexible. Whatever, the bottom line and #1 priority this season is to keep key players, (Couch, Brown, lineman etc.....), healthy and upright for 16 games and maybe more.
2.) Tim Couch proves he's a top QB.
Hey Tim, you wanted to be the #1 pick in the NFL draft in '99, well it's time to show what you've got. Couch bashers are off base, you can't judge a QB properly without giving him a decent offensive line and running attack. Before you say "well this is the year" let's see if the O-line and William Green are an improvement from last year. If they are, (and they should be), we'll get a better read on Tim Couch's true ability. >From my view at thesportsking.com, we think (sans Loede) Couch will win. If you don't believe us, ask Butch Davis, he seems to have a pretty good handle on the NFL these days.
3.) Jamir Miller plays like last year's Pro-bowl season.
Miller wants a new deal. The Browns aren't sure if they can do one because of the salary cap. Welcome to the NFL in the new millenium! Veteran players are being let go because teams simply can't pay them what they are due--not worth. Their age is the biggest thing working against them, like in Miller's case. Teams would rather "invest" in a younger player with fresher legs who works cheaper. Miller is a real pro and would never give less than 100%, but will Butch put him in position to make all those big plays again this year? If Miller holds out or leaves camp look for the Browns to deal or release him, but either way this defense is solid--maybe really good.
4.) The Offense must finally run the football .
Watching the Browns Offense over the last 3 years was like getting a root canal. To think of how many cases of insomnia were cured should bring a tear to your eye. They friggin' blew! No big plays, no real threats, and no clue on a running game. You learn in FOOTBALL 101 chapter 1, page 1, that in order to win in the "National Football League" you must be able to run the football. Head Coach Butch Davis addressed that need in the draft by taking the (here we go quote-miesters), "best player available" to help their running game in William Green from Boston College. Is Green the guy? Way too early to tell, plus he needs a good O-line. Those guys you never see or hear about on the line of scrimmage decide the game every week, but all anybody talks about are the "skilled" players. Davis saw what a real running game can do in Dallas when he was an assistant coach for the Cowboys. Let's hope he can somehow come close to reinacting that scenerio.
5.) The Browns get some breaks and good fortune.
Despite last season's progress, the team was besieged with injuries and don't get me started about good breaks. Remember the Bears game? You can watch football for the next 10 years and not see that happen again. In 2000 the Ravens got every break, bounce and call for most of the season, and if the Refs didn't blow the call the Raiders would have played in the Super Bowl instead of the Pats. I remember asking then head coach Marty Schottenhiemer about bad calls, and you know him--he was diplomatic. "They all seem to even out through the course of a year", he'd say. I don't believe it, sometimes like Dad would say "that team is blessed!!". Say your prayers Browns fans, anything can happen, and whatever happens enjoy the ride. It will never be the same after '95, but at least now the team is exciting to watch.
Wheeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!
- Jul 24, 2002 8:37 pm (#2910 of 2974)
Shaun O'Hara Training Camp Journal
By Shaun O'Hara
This report filed July 24, 2002
“If you’re not used to being handed anything, then you’re not afraid to come in and take it,”—Shaun O’Hara, June, 2002
Hey Browns fans, this is Shaun O’Hara checking in with my first training camp journal entry. I wanted to start with that quote, something I told some reporters in our last minicamp, because that’s been my philosophy on football and life. I have always felt that hard work pays off in the long run, and it’s something that my parents have established in my life. I learned how to apply that motto to football from my high school coach, Rick Mantz, who still, to this day, plays an important role in my career.
This will be my third season in the NFL, and I can’t believe how fast it has gone. I signed with Cleveland in 2000 as an undrafted free agent out of Rutgers University--you know, the football powerhouse! Don’t worry Scarlet Knight fans, Rutgers is on it’s way to becoming something special!
Speaking of special, this season already has a feeling that hasn’t been in Berea for quite some time. Everyone associated with the Browns can feel the energy in the atmosphere, and everyone is eager to get started. For us players, we have put in countless hours in the weight room, in the film room, and on the field in the last six months, all in preparation for this season. We are all stronger, faster, and most importantly, healthier.
We have used these last few weeks to recharge our batteries and prepare ourselves mentally for the journey ahead. Everyone does this differently. For some it’s a couple of weeks vacationing on some exotic island, or traveling to some great cities. Although I took a great trip to San Diego and then to Las Vegas with good friends Noel LaMontagne, Brad Bedell, Brant Boyer, and Mark Campbell, my favorite way to get ready for camp is spending a couple of weeks at home in New Jersey with my family. There’s just something about my mom’s food that gets me ready to go, and my dad always finds a way to inspire me to be the best.
I had the chance to scope out Andre’ Davis’ first camp journal, and it looks like he is going to do a great job. Although I don’t know Andre’ that well yet, I do know from playing against him in college that he is extremely explosive. It seemed like every time he touched the ball he was making a big play. I look forward to being on the field for some of that playmaking in the future.
I’m extremely excited about the opportunity that I have to communicate with all you Browns fans and give you some insight into what training camp is all about. This will be fun for all of us, and I am amazed at the response we have received thus far. I look forward to working with the crew from the number one professional sports team website in America. They are a fun group of people with a twisted sense of humor!
I haven’t actually reported to training camp yet, but I was excited to share my first journal entry. We will officially report tomorrow (Thursday) evening for some meetings and we will receive our playbooks and itineraries. We have our conditioning test Friday morning, which everyone is eagerly anticipating, and then our first practice Friday afternoon. I’ll check back then to let you know how the first practice went and I’ll continue to check in periodically throughout camp. Feel free to email me any questions, but remember the best way to get in touch with us is to come to practice!!
Hope to see you in Berea,
Shaun O’Hara
- Jul 24, 2002 10:57 pm (#2911 of 2974)
Nothing New On Green's Status
By Zac Jackson
This report filed July 24, 2002
Butch Davis said Wednesday there’s no news, neither positive nor negative, to report on the status of William Green’s contract.
GETTING ATTENTION—Davis praised offensive linemen Brad Bedell and Qasim Mitchell and defensive end Mark Word for their play in Wednesday’s practice. He also said quarterbacks Josh Booty and Kevin Thompson threw very well.
CHANGING UP—Lewis Sanders said there’s no “big” reason he changed from number 25 to 21, but 21 was his number at St. Peter’s (Staten Island, NY) High School. He has a “21 Eagles” tattoo on his right bicep from his high school days.
Another number change: Tight end/H-back Chris Eitzmann is now wearing number 41.
LOOKING AHEAD—The team’s final practice for rookies and selected veterans will take place Thursday morning. The full squad will report to Berea Thursday afternoon for meetings and orientation.
A conditioning test is scheduled for Friday morning with the first full squad, open to the public practice set for Friday at 3:30pm.
ABOUT ROCHESTER--A limited number of tickets for the Aug. 3 scrimmage between the Browns and Bills in Rochester are available at participating Tops Friendly Markets locations in the Cleveland area. Tickets are $2.00 for children 14 and under and $6.00 for adults. The scrimmage begins at 10:00 a.m.
The morning and afternoon practice sessions between the Browns and Bills on Friday, Aug. 2 are open and free to the public. Both the practices and scrimmage take place at St. John Fisher College in Rochester, N.Y.
NIGHT LIGHTS--Tickets are still available for the Prime Time Preview presented by LA-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries on Aug. 8 at Cleveland Browns Stadium. The event is an opportunity for the entire family to visit Cleveland Browns Stadium and join the 2002 Cleveland Browns as they take the field for the first time at Cleveland Browns Stadium.
The night will give fans the chance to get a sneak peak at the team and will also include entertainment for the whole family. Tickets are $5.00 and proceeds benefit the Cleveland Browns Foundation. Tickets can be ordered online or through Ticketmaster by phone: 216-241-5555 in Cleveland, or 330-945-9400 in Akron.
- Jul 24, 2002 10:59 pm (#2912 of 2974)
Sanders, Jameson Back In Action\
By Zac Jackson
This report filed July 24, 2002
In last year’s training camp, Lewis Sanders was on and off. Hot and cold. Sharp one minute, ailing the next. It was not a fun process.
The Browns had high hopes for Sanders, who played very well as a rookie in 2000 and entered his second professional training camp as a serious contender for a starting cornerback’s job. But a string of injuries hurt his progress and eventually forced him to the injured-reserve list.
Sidelined for the season, Sanders had his problems examined. He was checked and double checked, and eventually underwent surgery. From there he successfully rehabbed and has returned to the field this week with Browns rookies and other veterans recovering from injury.
The “new” Lewis Sanders is fresh. He’s got a new jersey number (21), he’s added weight (about nine pounds, making him 6-foot, 209), and he’s chomping at the bit to return to live football action.
“I just want to be able to contribute to this team,” Sanders said. “It’s been a long year and I’m just ready to get back out there. Once I stay healthy I think the sky is the limit. I haven’t proven anything yet, but I know my potential.”
“You see flashes when he’s healthy,” Browns Head Coach Butch Davis said. “He’s very physically gifted. And, unlike a lot of corners, he’s big. He’s strong, he can be physical, and he can run.”
There’s obviously a lot to like about having Sanders back in the secondary mix.
“One of these days, and hopefully this is the season, he’s going to have a season when he stays healthy,” Davis continued. “And when he does, he ought to be a real impact player.”
There are a few different ways to explain what kept Sanders out last year, and none of them paint a bright picture.
“There was a calcium deposit in my hip due to a previous injury,” Sanders said. “At first they thought it would be a serious procedure; they thought they’d have to go in and cut the muscle. But once they opened me up the deposit was on top of the muscle.”
“Basically, he had a calcium deposit bone spur,” Davis said. “It was something that was very minute and it was probably something that goes way back, maybe, into college. It was somewhat undetected. Whatever it was, it got worse after his rookie year and it kept getting worse and worse.”
And more and more painful.
“I couldn’t lift my knee up,” Sanders said. “I couldn’t even really bend down and tie my shoe. It got so big that it had a lump. I knew something was wrong.”
“He favored the right leg, then he got hamstring pulls and groin pulls,” Davis said. “But now that it’s overwith we’re hoping he’ll be able to progress smoothly.”
According to Sanders it’s so far, so good.
“There’s some rust with the technique things,” Sanders said. “I was still here for the meetings and everything. I just miss going out there and having fun with the guys. I’m glad to be back.”
CHANGING UP—Sanders said there’s no “big” reason he changed from number 25 to 21, but 21 was his number at St. Peter’s (Staten Island, NY) High School. He has a “21 Eagles” tattoo on his right bicep from his high school days.
Another number change: Tight end/H-back Chris Eitzmann is now wearing number 41.
Next Page >
I'm starting to get grumpy that Green hasn't signed. Get it done, get into camp, and get some reps.
- Jul 25, 2002 1:01 am (#2914 of 2974)
I just met Dan S. at the laundry. He is commuting and staying in a motel until his house closes.
He still hopes to got to camp Friday.
I don't know what computer time he will have between now and Friday so I posted this for anyone who was planning on meeting him.
- Jul 25, 2002 1:08 am (#2915 of 2974)
Training Camp: Day Two Wrap-Up
By Mike McLain
Date: Jul 24, 2002
Who is this man, and why was Butch Davis so happy with him today? Mike McLain has the answer within his Day 2 Training Camp Notes, straight from the practice fields at Berea to you.
"It was a lively practice," coach Butch Davis said. "Guys were nervous and trying to impress everybody (Tuesday). "It was crisper and more intense. They had contact today, and it was fun. That was something we weren't able to do last season. We couldn't risk that because we had guys held together with bailing wire and band aids."
The showings of offensive linemen Brad Bedell (pictured, above) and Qasim Mitchell stood out, in Davis' estimation. Davis also had kind words for defensive lineman Barry Word.
Add third-string quarterback Josh Booty to the list of players who stood out to Davis.
"Josh said he's learned more the last two weeks than he did all of last season," Davis said.
JUST HOPING: Second-year safety Michael Jameson can only hope that his season goes better than it did last year. After impressing coaches in the early stages of camp, his season came to an end when he suffered a severe ankle injury in week three of preseason against Washington.
Surgery followed to repair a bone that was badly splintered. He has a plate and a screw in the ankle. The speed that caught the attention of team scouts prior to the 2002 draft hasn't returned, but he thinks it's a matter of time until he returns to normal.
"I gained a lot of confidence through the minicamps and the quarterback schools being able to run and make plays," said Jameson, a sixth-round draft choice last year. "You have to jump and do all that, and I was able to do those things. I'm excited about training camp."
WATCH OUT: One of receiver Andre Davis' biggest fans is teammate and fellow Virgina Tech player Ben Taylor, who is competing for a spot at outside linebacker.
"He's a burner," Taylor said. "If a defender makes one mistake, he's by you."
PRACTICE NEWS: The Browns will conduct a morning practice (8:30-10:30) today and will have the afternoon off. The full squad will practice Friday afternoon, which will be the first workout that is open to the public.
- Jul 25, 2002 1:12 am (#2916 of 2974)
Day 2: David Carducci's Camp Notes
By David Carducci
Date: Jul 24, 2002
David Carducci offers his thoughts on the second day of Rookie Camp, provided here for all Bernie's Insiders visitors. Check out Butch's momentary burst of enthusiasm for people hitting each other. Who did well, who took a step back, who did both...
There was very little news from the second day of training camp for the 35 Browns rookies and selected veterans.
The highlight of the day was actually provided by Butch Davis, who was so anxious to see the offensive linemen go head-to-head with the defensive line that he forgot the schedule for the afternoon practice session.
After watching the players go through some light individual drills, stripping the ball from behind and recovering fumbles, Davis ran to the southwest corner of the practice field with the defensive linemen and started shouting for the offensive line and tight ends.
Those units, however, were on a different part of the field, waiting for Davis and the defensive linemen for practice on field-goal and punt formations.
When Davis realized he had jumped the gun, he sprinted across the field, yelling "dog gone it, I want to do Oklahoma drills."
When it was finally time for the defensive linemen to go head-to-head with the offensive linemen and tight ends, the drill featured some of the most spirited work of the first two days.
Rookie free-agent guard Qasim Mitchell and rookie tackle Joaquin Gonzalez stood out among the offensive linemen, although Mitchell later drew the ire of offensive line coach Larry Zierlein for not going full speed during 11-on-11 work.
With William Green still unsigned, James Jackson was once again the lone running back. Jackson fumbled on one of his first carries during 11-on-11 drills when he was hit by rookie free agent corner Kalvin Pearson. Davis said there is still no movement on contract talks with Green.
Second-year defensive end Mark Word stood out among the defensive players. Davis praised him for having outstanding technique.
- Jul 25, 2002 12:10 pm (#2917 of 2974)
It looks like the OL is manhandling the DL so far in camp.
That is what was reported at Bernies last night on their chat.
Gonzalez, Mitchell, Fowler, Dean, Bedell etc have gotten gotten the better of Rogers, Miller, Word, Mitchell, Spriggs etc...
- Jul 25, 2002 12:42 pm (#2918 of 2974)
From Mort's chat:
Toby in Belgium: Are the Browns and William Green even close to making a deal?
Chris Mortensen: Green's agent, Tom Condon, has been in Cleveland trying to make it happen, but it wasn't encouraging as of Tuesday night. I don't know. I was told last week that the Lions and Joey Harrington will have a difficult time getting a deal done, and it get done a few days later. Don't fret too much over rookie signings. They always get done. I can't remember the last time somebody went into next year's draft because he didn't get signed. I say start getting concerned about how effective he will be if he isn't there in three weeks.
- Jul 25, 2002 1:26 pm (#2919 of 2974)
Roger Mills for the St. Petersburg Times reports the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are pursuing free agent OT Lomas Brown (Giants). Brown last played for the New York Giants before being released in February. Brown could sign by Sunday, the day when players are scheduled to report to training camp.
Who is next, Jim Pyne?
They alredy have Oben.
What preseason games can we get televised or satelite anyone know?I'm in the lima, ohio area.
- Jul 25, 2002 2:20 pm (#2921 of 2974)
Shannon- I don't know if WLIO will be broadcasting the games or not this year.
The Cleveland station last year screwed all the other stations carrying the games by charging very high rights fees.
The satelite I have no clue about.
I know we get to see one game on Monday night.
Rudy V. - Jul 25, 2002 2:43 pm (#2922 of 2974)
Mark:
Are you referring to the Packers game in August? That is a preseason
Monday night game on national TV.
- Jul 25, 2002 2:59 pm (#2923 of 2974)
Rudy- Yep, thats the one I know for sure
Thanks Mark if i hear anything i will be sure and post it !!!!!!!!! You guys are great with the updates keep up good work !!!!!!!!! GO BROWNS
.
BEREA -- One of the happiest players on the Browns' 87-man roster is Ross Verba. Why? Because he won't have to check a chart each day to see where he should line up.
Verba, the former Packer signed in the 2001 offseason, is firmly set as the starting left tackle, the position he played in Green Bay. He signed with the Browns to play right tackle, the position he played most of training camp. He moved to left guard at the start of the season and ended up at left tackle the last four games.
''Having a whole training camp at left tackle has to help,'' said Verba, who was in the locker room yesterday after a workout. ''I think I got better there each game I played last year. I played all right at guard, I'm more familiar with the sets at tackle.''
Establishing cohesion in the offensive line is a priority. Coach Butch Davis says guard will be one of the most contested battles of camp, but at least he doesn't have to worry about tackle. Ryan Tucker is set on the right side.
''I think Ross will benefit enormously,'' Davis said. ''He's a potential Pro Bowl player. Prior to coming here, he was right on the threshold in Green Bay. Clearly from what I watched in minicamps, he'll benefit enormously being back at left tackle. He uses his hands very well. He can negate the weakside pass rushers like Jevon Kearse.''
Greener pastures
There is no news on the stalled negotiation with running back William Green, other than to report agent Tom Condon has left town. He didn't leave in a huff. He just left, which means he and Lal Heneghan will continue to negotiate by phone.
The problem for both sides according to a source is no drafted players between 13 and 20 have signed. Green was drafted 16th.
Settling down
Davis said practice was better yesterday simply because the adrenaline rush of the opening day was contained.
Yesterday, players went one-on-one, which is unusual in a camp with only 35 players. Nevertheless, Davis liked what he saw.
''Brad Bedell (left guard) was very good,'' Davis said. ''Qasim Mitchell (right guard) is a big powerful strong guy who showed some movement.
''I was proud of (defensive end) Mark Word. He was outstanding from a technical standpoint at the point of attack. That's a building block. If you can win a lot of one-on-ones, you're going to win a lot of other things in the course of a game.''
Getting a chance
Quarterbacks Kevin Thompson and Josh Booty are splitting the work. They will be relegated to backup work starting tomorrow when Tim Couch and Kelly Holcomb arrive, so Booty and Thompson are making the most of their chances.
''Josh said he has learned more in two days of practice and what we did last week than he did all season last year,'' Davis said. ''Last year he was the scout quarterback. That's an enlightenment for the coaches to make sure you coach everybody, not just the starters and second-team guys.''
Family reunion
Rookie linebacker Andra Davis is looking forward to the veterans reporting, particularly his former teammate at the University of Florida, defensive tackle Gerard Warren.
Warren is the godfather of Davis' 19-month old daughter Alisha. Alisha and her mother Monique Davis, Andra's wife, are living in Florida now but will soon rejoin Andra in Cleveland.
Paradise
Rookie tackle Joaquin Gonzalez loves the 78-degree, low humidity he has experienced the last two days. It is a sharp contrast of what he is accustomed to at Miami.
''Down there, you chew the air before you breathe it,'' he said.
- Jul 25, 2002 4:22 pm (#2926 of 2974)
One-on-one drills
by David Carducci of BerniesInsiders.com, July 25, 2002 at 10:42am ET
Melvin Fowler Profile
Once again, one-on-one work between the offensive and defensive lines was the highlight of the early part of practice. Melvin Fowler was impressive during the drill, scoring a takedown of Arnold Miller.
- Jul 25, 2002 4:23 pm (#2927 of 2974)
Not in Pads Today
by David Carducci of BerniesInsiders.com, July 25, 2002 at 10:40am ET
Earl Holmes Profile
Earl Holmes was not in pads this morning. He watched the morning session from the sidelines. He looked fine. My guess is Butch Davis decided to give Holmes the day off to rest for the arrival of the full squad tomorrow.
- Jul 25, 2002 5:00 pm (#2928 of 2974)
A top AFC WR headed for a holdout
07.25.02
One of the top WR's in the NFL, Jimmy Smith, is ready to hold out of training camp with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Smith has become frustrated with the team not giving him a new contract, and has had enough since the team has been promising him a new deal.
Barring a new deal by early today, the five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver made it clear that he will not report for the start of camp.
"I'm very disappointed that nothing has been done and we're less than 24 hours from reporting to camp," Smith told the Florida Times-Union.
"I'm not asking to be the top-paid receiver, but it's embarrassing. Last year, promises were made by management. After last season, I wanted to see if they would keep that promise. It's unfortunate that it has come down to this. I don't want to go through this, but I'm forced to do it. I have no other options."
The WR signed a new deal back in 1999 for 5 years, $19 million. This season he is set to earn a base salary of $275,000.
Smith is not among the top 15 highest-paid receivers in the league.
- Jul 25, 2002 5:03 pm (#2929 of 2974)
According to WKYC the sticking point in Green's negotiation is that Green's agent wants a 10% increase over last years #16 picks salary.
The Browns have countered with only a 3% increase.
Rudy V. - Jul 25, 2002 6:16 pm (#2930 of 2974)
Well, since it's my birthday today, here is what I wish for:
o William Green rushes for 1100 yards
o Couch throws for 28 TDs and 12 interceptions
o Courtney Brown gets 16 sacks
o We lead the league in sacks and INTs
o We avoid the IR (or put nowhere near 7 guys on it)
o AND...we get past the first round of the playoffs
I'm sure to the realists this looks like Xmas in July, but
...why not?
Da Butcher
- Jul 25, 2002 6:20 pm (#2931 of 2974)
Happy Birthday Rudy!
- Jul 25, 2002 6:32 pm (#2932 of 2974)
Green Negotiations Continue, Breakthrough Possible
By David Carducci
Date: Jul 25, 2002
The Browns are getting closer to a contract with first-round draft choice William Green, particularly as other first-round picks get signed. Get the details from David Carducci, who spoke with Carmen Policy this morning.
BEREA - Something could break with the contract negotiations between the Browns and first-round pick William Green, and possibly in time to have him on the practice field Friday when the entire Browns roster is scheduled to arrive for training camp.
"I think what is happening is (Green's agent) Tom Condon is waiting for a signing or signing in close proximity to our position," said Browns president Carmen Policy.
That signing happened early Thursday afternoon when Oakland inked 17th overall pick Phillip Buchanon. The Browns selected Green 16th overall.
"That should open the door for a quick resolution of the Green matter," said Policy. "If it doesn't, then I'll be scratching my head as to what the problem could be. There would seem to be no good reason for not getting it done once (the Buchanon deal) is concluded."
Buchanon signed a five-year contract with a base salary of $7-million. That is roughly the same deal Santana Moss received in 2001 as the No. 16 pick. That could mean Green is in line for a contract similar to the one signed by last year's No. 15 pick, Rod Gardner. The Redskins signed Gardner to a five-year, $7.7-million contract.
"I can tell you this. Our offer to William Green includes an increase over the contract that was provided to the 16th pick of the draft last year," said Policy.
"We've been willing, with William's contract, to engage in some of the more creative structures that have come into play ... I think (delays in first-round picks signing) are a matter of the agent not wanting in any way to be upstaged or embarrassed ... Historically, they want to do better than (the same numbered pick) did the previous season."
Policy said the team is not "terribly" frustrated by Green's absence during the first three days of training camp.
"If Friday or Saturday rolls around (and Green has not signed), then I think frustration will truly set in," said Policy. "We all know when you are talking about rookies, especially a rookie who is viewed as a potentially critical to this team, he has to be a part of this process from the beginning."
The Browns are confident they will not reach that level of frustration, now that a neighboring draft pick has signed.
"There should be hot and heavy phone conversations going on, and it would be really in everyone's best interest to get him on the field (Friday afternoon)," said Policy.
- Jul 25, 2002 7:26 pm (#2933 of 2974)
Davis sends message to the vets following Thursday's practice
07.25.02
By Matt Loede
Site Editor
BEREA, Ohio - As the clock ticks towards 3:30 p.m. on Friday and the first full-squad practice for the Cleveland Browns, coach Butch Davis seemed to send a little message towards the veterans on Thursday morning.
That message may have been sent in the coaches opening statement about just how good the rookies have looked over the last three days of practice.
"Probably only the real message that I've got would like to say is that I hope today is indicative of the way that all of training camp will go," Davis said.
"We had an inside run drill today, that from an offensive perspective was maybe as good as an inside run at anytime with any group, veterans or anybody last year."
Get the hint veterans?
It was Davis' way of saying that the players from the past had better to be ready to come in and compete, and for the second year in a row the head coach seems to be saying that just about all positions on the team is up for grabs.
Another message that Davis stated without question is that he is excited about the chance for this camp to be a good one for the young Browns.
"If the rest of the veterans report later this afternoon, and we take the practice field tomorrow, take the same approach as these young guys and guys that came in these last three days, it's going to be a very productive camp for us," Davis said.
The vets will be in Berea for a 3:30 p.m. practice on Friday, and on Saturday there will be a pair of practices for the first time in camp. The team will have a practice on Sunday and then Monday will have a morning practice followed by an afternoon inter-squad scrimmage.
Davis said on Thursday that all the vets are expected to report on time and ready to go.
"There's no indication that anybody, we haven't heard anything about wives delivering babies and airplanes, there's no major weather storms," Davis said. "No one's called and said 'coach I'm running late."
As far as what shape the vets will be in when they take the field on Friday, Davis was quick to point out that the team will run some drills to see where the players are at.
"We'll have a battery of running things for our benefit to gage where are they cardiovascular wise," Davis said. "I think it's smart for our coaching staff, because you don't want to spend a significant amount of time as a coaching staff and training camp time conditioning your football team.
"You've had six months to get ready for training camp, we'd like to just concentrate on football," Davis said.
- Jul 25, 2002 7:35 pm (#2934 of 2974)
Contract Renegotiated Today?
by David Carducci of BerniesInsiders.com,
July 25, 2002 at 1:19pm ET
Jamir Miller Profile
It's possible that Jamir Miller's contract could be re-negotiated as soon as today, Carmen Policy told reporters. The team is taking the approach of adding incentives to the back-end of the contract. Stay tuned...
Happy Birthday Rudy! I hope your birthday wish comes true:)
- Jul 25, 2002 7:39 pm (#2936 of 2974)
Browns Trying to Get Miller, KJ Under Contract
By David Carducci
Date: Jul 25, 2002
Carmen Policy spoke today about the status of Jamir Miller and Kevin Johnson contract situations. The Browns hope to make progress, and get the team's view of where things stand up to the current minute.
BEREA - Even with Jamir Miller hoping to cash in on last year's Pro Bowl season by renegotiating his contract, the Browns are confident the veteran strongside linebacker will report for training camp Friday.
Miller had hinted earlier in the summer that he might consider holding out until the Browns re-worked his contract.
"We have reason to be slightly better than cautiously optimistic that Jamir will be here on Friday, that the situation will be resolved and that he will be ready to go 100-percent," said Browns president Carmen Policy. "We both will come out of it thinking that the right thing was done and pay attention to the 2002 season, then worry about 2003 when it comes around."
Policy said the Browns may be willing to re-work the back end of Miller's contract.
Meanwhile, the Browns have made extending Kevin Johnson's contract past 2002 one of their top priorities.
"We are trying to re-do Kevin Johnson's contract, and we will get to that when William Green is signed," said Policy.
"I'd say it is a high priority. We want Kevin on the team. We want to get it done so that he not only has a clear head for this season, but so that we as an organization know that he is going to be with us for several more seasons. It has to be done right, and it has to be done consistent with our view of where the team is from a salary-cap and financial standpoint, and where he fits into that."
- Jul 25, 2002 8:04 pm (#2937 of 2974)
Andre' Davis Training Camp Journal
By Andre' Davis <mailto:askandre@brownsmail.net>
This report filed July 25, 2002What's up Browns fans? This is Andre' Davis
checking in with another journal entry. We had a short practice this morning
and then a meeting. We have the afternoon off so the veterans can report and
we'll be back for the evening meetings and activities.
I've now gone through my first three NFL training camp practices and it has
been a great experience so far. I think I'm really prepared now for when the
veterans come back in and things start to pick up. I know I'm ready to go. I
just have to remain confident in my abilities and continue doing what I've
been doing my entire career.
I still think the toughest thing ahead will be learning the details and all
the alignments. It's very important to be comfortable and confident in
everything you do out there. I'm ready to just go out and play football. I
think the nerves and the small stuff is out of the way, so I'm looking
forward to seeing how things work themselves out. Once I get the details
handled, it'll be time to just do my thing.
A week from today we'll be getting on a plane and heading for New York for
the practices and scrimmage with the Buffalo Bills. It should be an exciting
thing to see how we perform against another NFL team. It's also going to be
very cool for me because Rochester is about an hour and a half away from my
hometown, Niskayuna. My parents are going to make the trip to see me play
and some of my friends have e-mailed me to say how excited they are that
I'll be in the area. Hopefully I'll get a little free time to spend with
them.
I'm really enjoying doing this journal and I really can't believe all the
attention it's been getting. In the last three days I've received e-mails
from folks in my hometown, folks in my new town, folks from everywhere. It's
crazy. People told me the Browns were a big deal, but apparently the Browns
are huge! I'm honored and blessed to be a part of a great thing here.
See you at camp,
Andre' #87
- Jul 25, 2002 9:26 pm (#2938 of 2974)
Policy Confident Green Will Sign Soon
By Zac Jackson
This report filed July 25, 2002
ESPN.com is reporting that Philip Buchanon, the 17th overall pick in April’s NFL Draft, has agreed in principle to a contract with the Oakland Raiders. According to Browns President and CEO Carmen Policy, Buchanon’s signing is a step in the right direction for the Browns in their negotiations with 16th pick William Green.
“Tom Condon (Green’s agent) is waiting for a signing or signings in close proximity to our position,” Policy said Thursday. “Green Bay signed its pick at number 20, and we’re getting word that it’s a possibility the Oakland deal might be done today.
“If (the Buchanon signing) happens it should open the door for a quick resolution to the Green matter. If it doesn’t (help) I’ll be scratching my head. There’s no reason it shouldn’t be completed.”
Green has already missed the Browns first three training camp practices for rookies and selected veterans. The full squad begins practice Friday afternoon.
“The most important thing is the guys who are here have got to practice,” Browns Head Coach Butch Davis said. “We’re moving forward, with William Green or without William Green. We’ve got last year’s starting running back (James Jackson) back in the fold and Jamel White is a quality player. We can’t take any steps backward. The football team is moving forward tomorrow afternoon.”
“Our offer to William Green includes an increase over what was provided to the 16th pick of the draft last year,” Policy said. “I think it’s a matter of the agent not wanting to, in any way, be upstaged or embarrassed in any way relative to any signing behind his client.”
CONTRACT, TOO—Browns wide receiver Kevin Johnson is entering the final year on his contract and will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2002 season if he doesn’t sign a new deal before then.
The Browns hope it doesn’t get that far.
“We’re trying to redo Kevin’s contract,” Policy said. “And we will get to that the moment William Green is signed.”
Policy called Johnson a “high priority” and said “we want Kevin on this team. We’d like to know he’ll be here for several seasons.”
FULL CONTACT—Trainers examined running back James Jackson Thursday morning after a collision with rookie cornerback Kalvin Pearson.
“James just kind of got the wind knocked out him a little bit,” Davis said.
Jackson was down on the field for a couple of minutes but walked off on his own power at the end of practice.
“It’s a little bit of the rookie maybe not understanding the tempo,” Davis said of Pearson’s hit. “I talked to the rookies about making a statement to the coaching staff. And (Pearson) is a guy that during Quarterback School and the minicamps was right on the edge of things.”
Pearson stripped the ball cleanly from Jackson during an 11-on-11 session Wednesday afternoon. Whether or not Thursday’s hit was appropriate, this much is clear: Pearson has made an impression.
“You’d like for him to be maybe just a little bit smarter at times,” Davis said. “But those are the kinds of things that give guys like him a chance to make the football team.”
JUST WATCHING--Linebacker Earl Holmes sat out Thursday's practice. He showed up expecting to participate but the coaching staff gave him the day off.
- Jul 25, 2002 9:28 pm (#2939 of 2974)
PERFECT ATTENDANCE--Davis said he expects the full roster to report to Browns Headquarters on time Thursday and be ready for Friday morning’s conditioning test. The first full squad, open to the public practice is set for Friday afternoon at 3:30.
- Jul 25, 2002 10:42 pm (#2940 of 2974)
Davis Happy with Final Day of Rookie Practice
By Mike McLain
Date: Jul 25, 2002
Butch Davis breathed a small sigh of relief after a better performance by his offensive linemen during practice in Berea today. Davis singled out four linemen who he felt acquitted themselves well. Also, some notes from Carmen Policy's chat with reporters in Berea. Available to all Bernie's Insiders visitors.
Butch Davis couldn't have been more pleased with the way the final day of limited practices ended Thursday morning.
Then again, after watching linemen jump offside on Tuesday, anything would have looked good to the Browns coach.
The showing of the offensive line was on the top of Davis' list of positives. The group, which is minus all of the players expected to start, held up well in the inside running drills that are the highlight of these early practices.
"We had today maybe as good of an inside run (drill) as we've had with any group at anytime last year," Davis said. "We had some guys on the offensive line that did very well."
Davis singled out offensive linemen Melvin Fowler, Qasim Mitchell, Brad Bedell and Konrad Dean.
Keep an eye on Fowler, the third-round draft choice. He's been working at center in the absence of Dave Wohlabaugh, but Davis plans to split Fowler's time between guard and center when the vets join the fun Friday.
Fowler is impressive, on and off the field. He doesn't seem the least bit intimidated. With left guard a large question mark, don't be surprised if Fowler makes a run at the starting job.
TAKING IT EASY: Middle linebacker Earl Holmes, who had arthroscopic knee surgery last month, was a bystander at Thursday's practice. Davis said that he would give Holmes periodic rests.
"It's nothing big," Holmes said. "When I'm well, I'm hell. I'm in no rush. They know I can play."
Here are a few remarks made by Carmen Policy during a chat session with a few reporters on Thursday:
ON MAKING THE PLAYOFFS: "I'm not saying that we will make the playoffs or that we're entitled to make the playoffs," Policy said. "I'm saying that with all the progress we made last year and during the offseason, we'd be disappointed if we didn't make the playoffs."
ON BUTCH DAVIS: "When we hired Butch Davis, I certainly thought we got a skill set, an intense personality and a high dose of leadership," Policy said. "We also got a rare quality that a lot of coaches think they possess, but they don't, and that is the ability to evaluate talent, young and old. What I found is that I understated that. I feel that if we don't win, it's got to be our fault. Someone else has to be doing something wrong."
ON THE FUTURE: "The good news is, if we win this year and make the playoffs, we're going to be in a (financial) position to keep growing and get better for several years to come. We're not in salary-cap hell. We're very healthy in that regard, and we're a young team."
- Jul 25, 2002 11:01 pm (#2941 of 2974)
THURSDAY REPORT
RUNNING BACK AUDITIONS ... Former Notre Dame, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and
Philadelphia Eagles running back Autry Denson was in Berea today. Butch Davis said the
Browns will take look at a few different free agent running backs today.
DOWN AGAIN ... James Jackson had the wind knocked out of him when he was hit by
Kalvin Pearson. The oft-injured running back spent several minutes on the turf before finally
walking off under his own power. Butch Davis admitted that Pearson’s hit may have been a
bit overzealous, but it showed an aggressive quality he likes in the rookie free-agent
defensive back.
ROOKIES END STRONG ... Butch Davis was extremely pleased with the effort of the 35
rookies and free agents who participated in the first three days of camp.
“I hope today is indicative of the way all of training camp will go,” said Davis. “In just the
span of three practices, the emphasis that our football team made on getting better ... If (the
veterans) can take the same approach that these young guys did, this could be a very
productive camp.”
According to Davis, the highlight of the session was the encouraging work of the young
offensive lineman during an inside-run drill.
“It was probably as good of an inside run as we had at any time, with veterans or anybody,
last year,” said Davis. “We blocked extremely well. We had some guys on the offensive line
who did an excellent job. Melvin Fowler and Qasim Mitchell, Brad Bedell, Conrad Dean
and those guys did a very, very nice job against some pretty talented defensive linemen.
They were going against some guys like Tyrone Rogers and guys who played and started
and were productive for us last year. I think that was very encouraging.”
BIG PLAYS ... Frisman Jackson turned in the play of the day with a diving, one-handed
grab over the middle during a 5-on-7 drill.
“He made the quarterback look good. He’s an athletic guy. His background was at
quarterback in college (at Western Illinois). He’s made the transition (to wide receiver) and
he’s only been there for a short amount of time. He’s smart, he has good hands and he’s a
good athlete.”
Unfortunately, Jackson later came under attack by offensive coordinator Bruce Arians for
missing a block that allowed Michael Jameson to drop James Jackson for a loss during
11-on-11 drills.
Dimitrius Breedlove is another rookie receiver who had some highs and lows on Thursday.
Breedlove made a nice adjustment to catch a deep throw from Josh Booty. Breedlove beat
Lewis Sanders down the sideline, then came back to make a leaping catch over Sanders
when the ball was underthrown.
Calvin Spears intercepted a pass when Chris Sanders failed to make a sliding catch in an
11-on-11 drill. The ball caromed off Sanders’ hands and shoulder pad, right to Spears.
SCREEN PROBLEMS ... For three straight years the Browns have struggled to execute a
simple screen pass. Those problems surfaced again Monday when
FOWLER AT GUARD ... Melvin Fowler will open camp at guard, then rotate to center at
some point during the weekend. Davis said they had not decided if Fowler will rotate
positions every day or every two days. Fowler could end up getting more reps at guard than
center, allowing him to become more comfortable in the position.
ALL VETERANS EXPECTED ... Butch Davis is expecting all of the veterans to report on
time Friday, including linebacker Jamir Miller, who is hoping to cash in on his Pro Bowl
season by renegotiating his contract.
“There is no indication that anybody will (not report),” said Davis. “We haven’t heard
anything about wives delivering babies, airplanes, there are no major weather storms,
nobody has called to say I’m running late.”
- Jul 26, 2002 3:19 am (#2942 of 2974)
Green On The Verge
by Lane Adkins of BerniesInsiders.com, July 25, 2002 at 9:38pm ET
William Green Profile
A source close to the Browns has informed Bernie's Insiders this evening that the Browns and Tom Condon, the agent for William Green have reached a compromise on numerous contract issues.
Both parties appear to be extremely optimistic that Green will be on the practice field Friday afternoon for the first full practice of training camp.
- Jul 26, 2002 12:28 pm (#2943 of 2974)
When was the last time that the Browns were effective in running the screen pass on a consistent basis?
I don't really ever recall it? Prehaps when Herman Fontenot was here, but that wasn't really consistent.
- Jul 26, 2002 12:29 pm (#2944 of 2974)
Heater- Probably when Mike Pruitt, Calvin Hill, Brian Sipe and company were doing it...
- Jul 26, 2002 12:33 pm (#2945 of 2974)
Calvin Hill...now that brings back memories.
I am sure they ran it, but it's just been a source of frustration for me since 1999. Not only us running it poorly, but defending against it very poorly.
- Jul 26, 2002 12:35 pm (#2946 of 2974)
Brad Biggs for the Chicago Sun-Times reports while Chicago Bears S Damon Moore (knee) was excused from reporting to training camp because of a personal problem, a source close to the situation said he is considering retirement. Moore tore the ACL in his left knee while playing with the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game late last year.
- Jul 26, 2002 12:43 pm (#2947 of 2974)
Not alot of news out there this morning that is not just rehash of everything we have already posted.
Rudy V. - Jul 26, 2002 2:38 pm (#2948 of 2974)
Heater:
Ah, yes. The successful screen pass. I remember those.
How about a well-executed draw? I'd like to see them, too.
- Jul 26, 2002 3:40 pm (#2949 of 2974)
Dan S. told me that he talked with Just Thinkin' from Bernies forum. Just Thinkin' is the guy who gave us those wonderful training camp reports last year.
Well Dan said that he will be doing those reports from camp again this year.
I will bring them here as sonn as I see them, unless I am beaten to it...
- Jul 26, 2002 6:33 pm (#2950 of 2974)
Has Devone Left the Team?
by Art Bietz
of BerniesInsiders.com, July 26, 2002 at 1:49pm ET
Devone Claybrooks Profile
As Dusty points out in a tip we just recieved, Devone Claybrooks has mysteriously vanished from the roster at the official site of the Browns. Click here if you don't believe us. This may indicate that he has exited to make way for Autry Denson.
- Jul 26, 2002 6:35 pm (#2951 of 2974)
The Browns have made one roster move so far today, and it is not the one you've all be waiting for.
Running back Autry Denson has signed a free agent contract.
- Jul 26, 2002 6:38 pm (#2952 of 2974)
Browns Sign Autry Denson
By Zac Jackson
This report filed July 26, 2002
The Browns have added running back/return specialist Autry Denson to their training camp roster.
Denson (5-foot-10, 203) has played in 33 games, with one start, in three seasons with the Dolphins and Bears. His biggest contributions have come on special teams as he owns a career average of 23.9 yards per kickoff return and 22 special teams tackles.
Denson is the leading rusher in University of Notre Dame history and turned in three 1000-plus yard rushing seasons as a collegian. He was a seventh round pick of Tampa Bay in 1999.
The team also placed defensive tackle DeVone Claybrooks on the waived/failed physical list. Claybrooks was a late roster addition last season and spent the spring playing in NFL Europe.
SIZING UP—The Browns three rookie linebackers earned high marks from Butch Davis with their performance in the first three days of training camp. All three worked exclusively at one position—Ben Taylor on the strongside, Andra Davis in the middle, and Kevin Bentley on the weak side.
MAKING A MARK—While rookie cornerback Kalvin Pearson got some attention for his hit on James Jackson in Thursday’s practice, rookie safety Calvin Spears quietly performed well in the first three practice sessions.
Spears and Pearson, college teammates at Grambling, were two of four defensive backs in the team’s rookie and selected veteran camp. The others were Lewis Sanders and Michael Jameson.
“I’m getting better, trying to learn things, and basically show my talent,” Spears said. “It’s fun. With only a few of us here, we got some one-on-one instruction and I picked up a few tricks.”
Spears intercepted a pass near the end of Thursday’s practice and headed for the endzone.
“They pushed me out of bounds at the five,” he said. “Next time I’ll get in.”
I just read on another forum that their is rumors Tre' was placed on PUP. Hopefully it is just that a rumor.
- Jul 26, 2002 6:55 pm (#2954 of 2974)
Okie- I don't know where the rumor came from, but I can find absolutely no evidence of it.
All I have heard about Tre is that he is 100% and ready to go.
- Jul 26, 2002 6:59 pm (#2955 of 2974)
Ty Detmer Completes the Circle
By Bill Shea--Date: Jul 26, 2002
Columnist Bill Shea joins the Bernie's Insiders team and catches up with old friend Ty Detmer. Plus, some comments the day after Cliff Lewis' passing.
ALLEN PARK This time last year, Ty Detmer was taking snaps at the start of Cleveland's training camp in Berea, Ohio.
Now, he's in his first camp with the Detroit Lions. During the 12 months in between, Detmer was traded on the eve of the 2001 season opener, then forced into action when starter Charlie Batch was benched.
"It was kind of a crazy year for me last year," Detmer said.
Crazy, indeed. In his first start, the clearly unprepared Detmer was victimized by the Browns for seven interceptions in a 24-14 loss at Cleveland. Detroit spiraled downward en route to a 2-14 year that saw Detmer in and out of the lineup.
Detmer's circumstances are similar in Detroit to his in Cleveland. He's a an insurance policy in case the big-ticket starters go down with injury.
In Detroit's case, Detmer, 34, is on clipboard duty behind starter Mike McMahon and rookie Joey Harrington, who signed a six-year, $36.5-million deal last week as the Lions' top draft pick.
Detmer understands his role: "They want me to be an extra coach back there."
He knows he and McMahon are keeping the seat warm for Harrington. "They have plans for Joey," he said.
Harrington has zero NFL experience, but Detmer has been impressed with what he's seen thus far.
"As he gets more experience, he'll get more confident," he said.
Detmer also knows he must be prepared to take the helm if the others go down.
"I've got to get myself ready too," he said.
How does Harrington look now compared to Tim Couch three years ago?
"They're both very sharp guys," Detmer said. "For Tim, it was a new team and a new system."
The native Texan, who set 59 NCAA records at BYU, still has friends in Cleveland.
"I still talk to Tim and Aaron Shea," he said.
Detmer said he prefers coach Marty Mornhinweg's West Coast Offense which he learned while playing for Mornhinweg while with the Packers and 49ers to the Browns' single back, play action scheme.
"I feel a lot more comfortable now," he said. "It's the same system I was in for several years."
Still, Detmer didn't think he'd be traded. "I just passed it off as rumor."
It wasn't. The Browns dealt Detmer on Sept. 2, 2001, for a fourth-round 2002 draft choice. The Browns took outside linebacker Kevin Bentley from Northwestern with the pick.
The Lions are Detmer's fifth team in 11 seasons since graduating from Brigham Young as the Heisman Trophy winner in 1990. A ninth-round draft pick by Green Bay in 1992, he also played for Philadelphia and San Francisco.
In Cleveland, Detmer was brought in to mentor Tim Couch in 1999, and start until the rookie was ready. Detmer was pulled in the fourth quarter of the season opener against the Steelers, a 43-0 disaster on national television.
Detmer, who's only other start for Cleveland was in place of the injured Couch for the 1999 season finale, missed the entire 2000 season with a ruptured Achilles tendon.
- Jul 26, 2002 7:30 pm (#2956 of 2974)
Jamir Miller at Camp - No Holdout
by Lane Adkins of BerniesInsiders.com, July 26, 2002 at 3:25pm ET
Jamir Miller Profile
Lane Adkins reports from Berea that Jamir Miller is at training camp today and that there are no indications of a holdout. Further details as they become available.
- Jul 26, 2002 7:51 pm (#2957 of 2974)
Dan S. just called.
TODAYS PRACTICE IS CANCELLED!!!!!
- Jul 26, 2002 7:52 pm (#2958 of 2974)
Bad weather....
Anyone going to tomorrows practice who wants to get together and meet go to the KMart parking lot on Bagley road at 10am.
- Jul 26, 2002 7:57 pm (#2959 of 2974)
There will still be a limited practice for the players indoors...
- Jul 26, 2002 8:00 pm (#2960 of 2974)
The New England Patriots have announced the release of LB Marty Moore
- Jul 26, 2002 8:02 pm (#2961 of 2974)
Ryan Leaf has retired.
Edited by Jul 26, 2002 1:12 pm
I heard practice got moved indoors, too. I would be pretty bummed if I made the trip.
Dan Hallett
- Jul 26, 2002 8:25 pm (#2963 of 2974)
From KFFL:
Browns | Claybrooks Released - posted at KFFL (http://nfl.kffl.com)
11:27 PT: The Cleveland Browns have placed DT Devone Claybrooks on the waived-failed physical list.
- Jul 26, 2002 9:18 pm (#2964 of 2974)
David Carducci's Early Report from Camp
By David Carducci
Date: Jul 26, 2002
Practice isn't even over yet, but David Carducci has already given us an update about what is going on in Berea. Earl Holmes, Autry Denson and more in this update.
BEREA - The first chance for the fans to get a look at the 2002 edition of the Cleveland Browns was spoiled just minutes before Friday's training camp session when a brief thunderstorm forced the team to practice indoors.
An estimated crowd of 400 fans were turned away due to lightning strikes near the Browns' training facility.
Within a half hour, the lightning had passed through the area, allowing the Browns to return to the outdoor practice fields.
Linebacker Jamir Miller and wide receiver Kevin Johnson were among the 51 veterans who reported for their first practice Friday. Miller, who was named to the Pro Bowl after recording a career-high 13 sacks, and Johnson, who set career highs in catches, receiving yards and touchdowns, are both hoping to renegotiate their contracts.
Linebacker Earl Holmes sat out practice for the second consecutive day. Holmes was one of a handful of veterans to join the Browns' rookies for the first three days of camp. He is recovering from minor knee surgery during the offseason.
Defensive tackle Devone Claybrooks was placed on waivers after failing a physical.
Running back Autry Denson, who signed earlier in the day, was in uniform (wearing No. 44).
Anybody interested in Fantasy Football with us forum folks can feel free to jump in a league we just started, over at Sandbox.
League name: ABJ League 1
Password: browns
Fast Live Draft ... August 1st ... 9:00 pm EDT
Casual Private League with Head to Head Scoring. (you play each other and best win-loss record wins)
You can enter league now but can't rank players till beginning of next week. That will just be a couple days before the draft, so keep that in mind before entering. There'll be other leagues set up with later draft times if that one is a problem..
The Spider - Jul 26, 2002 10:09 pm (#2966 of 2974)
What are Leaf's chances of making it to Canton?
- Jul 26, 2002 10:31 pm (#2967 of 2974)
Leafs chances are pretty good.
Greyhound runs there every day...
- Jul 26, 2002 11:23 pm (#2968 of 2974)
Quick Start for Morgan
by Art Bietz of BerniesInsiders.com, July 26, 2002 at 7:11pm ET
Quincy Morgan Profile
David Carducci indicates that Quincy Morgan is off to a terrific start on Day 1 of training camp, and hooked up with Tim Couch on two spectacular plays. Morgan showed better concentration as he pulled in a 40-yard bomb despite tight coverage by Anthony Henry. The Browns are looking for Morgan and Davis to lessen the pressure on Kevin Johnson in the 2002 season and provide more reliable alternatives for Couch.
- Jul 26, 2002 11:25 pm (#2969 of 2974)
Update on the O'Hara / Stokes battle at LG
by Art Bietz of BerniesInsiders.com, July 26, 2002 at 7:06pm ET
Barry Stokes Profile
David Carducci's afternoon report from training camp indicates that Shaun O'Hara practiced with the first team at LG today. Stokes practiced with the second team. We will need to watch as camp moves forward to see the time that Stokes gets with the first team. This may not indicate that O'Hara is ahead of Stokes, as Stokes will be new to the system and may get opportunities to show what he can do working with the first unit.
- Jul 26, 2002 11:28 pm (#2970 of 2974)
More Notes from Afternoon Practice
By David Carducci
Date: Jul 26, 2002
David Carducci offers his final report from today's Training Camp, with updates on two players fighting to land starting jobs: Quincy Morgan and Shaun O'Hara. Also, how Kevin Bentley and Ross Verba looked, and more!
O'HARA OPENS AS NO. 1 ... Shaun O'Hara played left guard with the first-team offensive line. The battle for the starting left guard job is expected to be one of the most heated battles of camp, with O'Hara, free-agent Barry Stokes and Paul Zukauskas all in the running. Stokes practiced with the second team.
MORGAN IMPRESSIVE ... The Browns have high hopes for Quincy Morgan as he enters his second season as an NFL receiver. If his training-camp debut was any indication, Morgan might just live up to those expectations.
Morgan hooked up with Tim Couch on two spectacular plays during 11-on-11 drills at the close of Friday's practice. Morgan's route and Couch's throw were both perfect on the first completion, a 15-yard slant just inside Anthony Henry.
The big play of the day was a 40-yard bomb down the left sideline. In the past, Morgan might have struggled with his concentration as he was covered step-for-step by Henry. On Friday, Morgan made a difficult grab as the Couch's throw just sailed between Henry's helmet and outstretched right arm.
HOLMES OUT AGAIN ... Linebacker Earl Holmes sat out for the second straight day.
Butch Davis said the decision had to do with the potential for the Browns practicing on turf. A thunderstorm forced the Browns indoors for the first half hour of practice. Once the weather cleared, the Browns returned to the outdoor practice fields. A crowd of close to 200 fans also returned to watch the practice.
BIG HITS ... Rookie linebacker Kevin Bentley flashed nice anticipation and speed in blowing up a screen pass to Carl Fair. Bentley split a pair of blockers and dropped Fair for a loss just as he caught the pass from Kevin Thompson.
VERBA VS. BROWN ... The head-to-head competition between left tackle Ross Verba and right defensive end Courtney Brown during training camp should be interesting. Verba did a nice job against Brown during 11-on-11 work, driving Brown outside on several plays.
STRUGGLES ... Backup quarterback Josh Booty was far from sharp. His throws tended to sail and he made several questionable decisions in full-squad drills ... The normally sure-handed Mark Campbell dropped one pass over the middle, then bobbled another near the sideline two plays later.
FULLBACK AND H-BACK ... J.J. Johnson was encouraging in his debut at fullback. He delivered the day's most punishing block during inside-run drills. He also was an effective blocker during 11-on-11. Tim Couch said he thinks Aaron Shea is a natural at H-back. The newly-engaged Shea worked solely at H-Back on Friday.
Point of clarification...
Don't you need to have a career before you retire from it?
...Reference one Ryan Leaf...
Kinda reminds me of those groups that advertise their Greatest Hits CD while never having a Hit Song. I guess everyting's relative...
Received my Browns Media Guide today.
Not bad as it was ordered on Monday.
525+ pages...lots of great facts, stats and info. They have a great section that documents all the players that have ever worn each jersey number. For example, Couch is only the fourth player to ever wear the number 2.
It even has a couple pages on the Browns Backers...recommended!
- Jul 27, 2002 12:36 am (#2974 of 2974)
Davis Pleased With First Impression
By Zac Jackson
This report filed July 26, 2002
Quincy Morgan needed only two hours Friday to show fans at Browns training camp that a little hard work goes a long way.
Morgan looked bigger, quicker and more confident than he did a year ago as the Browns opened full squad training camp—and he gave all the credit to Buddy Morris, the team’s new Head Strength and Conditioning Coach.
“I worked hard in the offseason,” Morgan said. “The best thing Butch Davis could have done is bring Buddy Morris in. Buddy works you hard, he gets you in shape. He’s taught everybody here some great things.”
Said Davis: “There’s no question we are stronger.”
Morgan turned in the play of the day in a 7-on-7 passing drill when he beat Anthony Henry down the left sideline and hauled in a deep reception from Tim Couch.
“Quincy really worked hard through the Quarterback School and minicamp on his timing with Tim (Couch),” Davis said. “He’s more poised, more confident, he’s making plays and catching the ball with more consistency. He’s off to a good start.”
“I’m just trying to get better,” Morgan said. “Every day I want go out there and produce, then carry it over to game days.”
SOLID START--Although the start of the team’s first full squad practice was delayed by a thunderstorm, it didn’t dampen the spirit of Butch Davis or the several hundred fans who waited out the weather.
“This is the day I think everybody has been waiting for,” Davis said. “And we went out and practiced like a football team that wants to win. That’s very encouraging.”
The team took the field for approximately ten minutes before moving into the indoor training facility to avoid the rain and lightning. Fans were asked to return to their cars for safety reasons but were allowed to return about 30 minutes later when the team went back outside.
“I was really disappointed that we had to go inside,” Davis said. “I wanted to be outside, and I hated for the fans to have to leave. I was thankful some did come back out. Hopefully they’ll get an awful lot of Cleveland Browns football in the next three weeks. ”
STILL WAITING—Top draft pick William Green remains unsigned and has now missed four practices.
“We’re going to be more than busy coaching the guys that are here,” Davis said. “The unfortunate thing is that certainly every day William misses he falls behind some more.”
THE NEW GUY—Davis said newly signed running back Autry Denson would be in the mix at running back and is a “very valuable” addition as a nickel running back and special teams player.
“This is not a token signing,” Davis said. “He’s going to come in and compete and try to earn a job.”
Davis listed six top candidates for the Browns punt and kick return duties: Denson, Dennis Northcutt, Kevin Johnson, Quincy Morgan, Andre King and Andre’ Davis.
UP FRONT—The first offensive line unit looked like this: Ross Verba at left tackle, Shaun O’Hara at left guard, Dave Wohlabaugh at center, Tre Johnson at right guard, and Ryan Tucker at right tackle.
JUST WATCHING—Linebacker Earl Holmes was held out of practice, partly because of the weather that forced the team temporarily inside. Butch Davis didn’t want Holmes to practice on artificial turf.
Cleveland Browns (Gen II- Mar19th to July 26th,2002)