Speaking of Which…

What now?

 

The 2017 NFL draft has come and gone, leaving us denizens of the AFC North to ponder what our select favorites did.  We’re most likely still analyzing selections and rosters and trying to determine who fits where.  We’re probably feeling some optimism, because we have no negatives (yet) to consider beyond draft reports and youthful, if serious infractions (Bengals and Ravens fans, we’re looking at you).  And we’re reviewing all of this with the backdrop of the recently-released team schedules for 2017, which allows for consideration of individual matchups and strategic advantages.

 

Hoo, boy.  At minimum, let’s wait until rookie minicamps occur before anointing picks with “boom or bust” labels…although we can’t resist.  Speaking of which…

 

This is one of many, many draft assessments that begins by stating how imperfect it is.  Makes one wonder why these types of articles are published at all, except…we read them.  As many as we can absorb, really.  And it’s all in an attempt to justify our team’s efforts and thought process.  Speaking of which…

 

Bengals owner Mike Brown penned a letter to the Bengals faithful detailing the team’s rationale for selecting Oklahoma RB Joe Mixon, whose well-documented domestic violence issues have led several Cincinnati-based media outlets and some national advocacy groups to call for boycotts of the team.  Brown concedes Mixon’s talent and acknowledges the risk in drafting a player with this sort of baggage, but is correct to point out that Mixon has complied with the terms of his sentence and has been exonerated in the eyes of the law.  The Bengals have never been shy about taking on troubled players, so it’s a bit of a surprise that their fans would react so fervently to Mixon’s selection.  Speaking of which…

 

In the aftermath of the Ray Rice domestic abuse scandal, the Ravens announced that character would very much be a consideration in any potential draftees going forward.  And until this draft, they had held firm, often rejecting promising talent in favor of a clean reputation.  Enter third-round pick OLB Tim Williams, whose off-field transgressions (remarkably by his own admission) include several failed drug tests and a gun charge.  Apparently the Ravens were impressed by Williams’ open acceptance of his past and his seeming willingness to move forward.  Judging from this, it’s safe to say that at least some fans are supportive of his selection, issues or no.  Speaking of which…

 

The Steelers’ reaction to the team’s fourth-round selection of quarterback Josh Dobbs left many scratching their heads.  Most of the confusion seems centered on the future of incumbent QB Ben Roethlisberger, whose dalliance with retirement this past offseason prompted speculation that the team might begin to look for his eventual replacement.  Yet most are not sure if Dobbs is capable of consistent play in the NFL, let alone starting chops.  Time will tell.  Speaking of which…

 

The Browns added 10 draft choices and 11 undrafted free agents within the past eight days; needless to say, their scouting staff has been very busy.  It’s interesting to note that nine of the 11 UDFAs play defense, which makes one wonder if the Browns are finished adding offensive pieces for 2017.  It’s true that they’ve significantly improved the offensive line, and their current in-house quarterback choices are comparatively no worse than they were last season.   Again, time will tell, as will performance results.  Bring on the OTAs!

 

Enjoy the weekend, folks!