Just so I'm clear, Irish, what are you asserting? That Hyde, Johnson, and Chubb will perform, collectively, relatively as well as Bell? I'm just trying to understand your point, is all. I was a huge fan of Chubb back before his injury. The guy was a star. However, I just don't think he's been the same since. It'll be interesting to see what form he's in, and which guy he'll be in the NFL - pre or post injury.
All I was saying is that I can understand why a team wouldn't want to pay a RB $16M per year. We have a situation where we have (2) relatively successful RBs and a 2nd round rookie in camp, for about $12M. Add them together, and yes, I would expect them to collectively come close to Bell's output in 2018. I am assuming the offense as a whole will be improving with the other pieces in place, otherwise, I may not feel the same. I don't assume any of the (3) to come close to Bell... however, none are even close to the same atmosphere in price tag either. Value is in the eye of the beholder and the Steelers don't see a value higher than $14M per year...may be that no team will. As to the point of the post in the first place referring to excitement about the Browns backfield situation. I personally see why people are optimistic about our current RB roster. I cannot see a reason for pessimism in regards to the position. Edit: In case you are curious at all.. 2018 Cap hit; Steelers - Bell $14,544,000 Browns - Hyde $3,166,166 Browns - Johnson $ 2,084,523 Browns - Chubb $ 1,342,381 Total for the triumvirate $ 6,593,070 In any world, that's a bargain IF they perform even close.
For depth concerns, the Browns are as solid as any team in the league at RB, and I agree that when you look at the cost, it's very team friendly. Sashi set this team up well, there is no question about it. Landry and Kirksey have both indicated in the media that this is a playoff caliber team. Dudes are both star players and I think that means something. They have a confidence going that we just aren't used to seeing. Let's hope these two know what they are talkin about...A Cleveland Browns playoff run is long overdue. I really hated to hear the news today about Josh Gordon not being available for the start of camp. This is probably not good, but they are saying that he gets drug tested 10 times a month, and he hasn't failed a test. So idk....Gordon has let us down so many times, it's natural to assume the worst...Hopefully he just needs a week or two to get himself right for the season. He says that he's better than ever...
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2018/07/browns_are_invested_in_josh_go.html ^^^This would indicate that it's a positive thing... -The Browns have come a long way with Josh Gordon...
From the article: Perhaps it could be due to the Browns' appearance on Hard Knocks? If a player didn't want to be on the show, but they're obligated by contract... this would be a way around that, no? And the fact that it's anxiety that Gordon is repeatedly seeking treatment for would only lend *more* credibility to that theory.
I guess we'll find out in 2019. Imagine Bell leaving in free agency and Roethlisberger finally retiring in the same season. That would leave a very good defense, an above-average Antonio Brown, and a backup caliber heir-apparent (sorry, @Tim) in Mason Rudolph. Oof.
Also in wide receiver news... COME TO CLEVELAND, JULIO!!! 2019 Free Agency: fix the franchise crippling mistake Tom Heckert made in 2011.
^^^^^ Strike that... I didn't realize his deal ran through 2021. I guess he could demand a trade... ?
Did I miss something with Gordon? His release stated he would miss the beginning of camp, it is widely reports that in no way, shape, or form is this from a negative test, and everyone is talking as if he is out for the season. I have seen the NFL network and ESPN as well as smaller sources spinning this that the Browns are lost at WR now without him.
PHSAW Dog. Gordon is taking the time he needs to continue with his treatment program and get himself mentally prepared for the season. The Browns will be just fine and Gordon will scare the shit out of opposing D's all year long!
