Tre Brown, CB, Seahawks
TY DANE GONZALEZ MAY 28, 2021
RENTON, WA - It's been nearly a month since cornerback Tre Brown was selected by the Seahawks in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In that short span of time, he's travelled to a brand-new city, taken part in his first NFL minicamp, and continues to get work in during organized team activities.
With the majority of Seattle's veteran players opting not to participate in these voluntary workouts, rookies like Brown are getting plenty of opportunities to make lasting impressions on head coach Pete Carroll and his staff. So far, Brown and his peers appear to be taking full advantage.
"I think you'd be surprised how sharp they are and how far along they've already come," Carroll told reporters following the conclusion of Thursday's OTAs. "They're working really hard, they're really diligent about it. It matters to these guys - obviously, 'cause they're putting in the time - and they're able to bring it from the meeting room to the field, so we're making good progress."
For Brown in particular, continuing that progression will be key as he prepares for a crowded competition at outside cornerback. That battle, in fact, has already begun in OTAs.
Among the five players seemingly vying for the starting job opposite incumbent D.J. Reed, free agent addition Ahkello Witherspoon may be the top dog for Brown to beat out. As it just so happens, Witherspoon is one of the few veteran players present at the Seahawks' team facility this week, though he's not participating in on-field activities as he recovers from a minor knee procedure.
With the other three potential candidates - Tre Flowers, Damarious Randall, and Pierre Desir - not in Renton, all eyes are on Brown. And by Carroll's account, the fourth-round pick out of Oklahoma has made his intentions clear through his first handful of practices.
"He's trying to make this team and he didn't come here to back up," Carroll stated.
"He's come here to play."
***
"He's a hard-working kid, he's got a good mind for battling and competing and he's after it," Carroll said of Brown. "So what he has to do: he's gotta show well in camp, gotta show well in preseason games, you know, to see if he can get to be a starter. He'll get a chance; we're gonna take a look at him. We wanna see him and we wanna make sure we can get a good evaluation of him."
One thing that won't be an issue for Brown is having the mentality necessary to live up to the moment. Having a chip on one's shoulder is a common - even cliché - phrase used by players with something to prove, but it's been a driving force of those that have come through under Carroll. Brown is no exception, having slid to the third and final day of the draft despite boasting one of the most impressive track records of all draft-eligible corners—in a Big 12 conference dominated by offensive powerhouses, no less.
Picking up on these things is relatively easy for a defensive backs guru like Carroll, who's been at his most successful in Seattle with unique competitive personalities such as Richard Sherman in tow. And, as he's seen with players of that mold, conducting oneself in this manner can go a long way to paving out a lasting and fruitful career in the NFL.
"[Brown]'s one of those guys, you know, he's got that mentality about it," Carroll explained. "He's tough and he wants to prove it. That's getting you going in the right direction, so we'll see how he battles."
MAY 18, 2021 AT 10:47 AM
The two stars from Wyman’s time at the Seahawks’ practices were the team’s first two draft picks in 2021 – second-round receiver D’Wayne Eskridge and fourth-round cornerback Tre Brown.
With both of them, speed was what really was apparent.
“His speed is just phenomenal,” Wyman said of Eskridge. “Watching him on the field running fly sweeps, we saw a little bit of that and saw him get open on the sidelines. And look, he had some rookie mistakes. He had a drop on a throw that was there … he got his hands on it and probably should have caught it. But other than that he looked really good and really fast. His speed stands out.”
Brown is also exceptionally fast, but his physicality was something that really stood out to Wyman.
“The more I look at him and watch film and get to know him … he looks really good,” he said. “He was a little bit too physical on one play, so there was a little bit of a reprimanding that went on at practice, but it was done with a smile on (a coaching staff member’s) face because they’re like, ‘I love this, but we can’t do it’ … He blew up a smoke screen and there was a reverse that he blew up, so he looked really good. He’s just really fast. I would say he’s tenacious. He’s just all over you.”
It’s unclear how much Eskridge and Brown will play on offense and defense in 2021, respectively, but Wyman thinks both can be standouts on special teams right away.
“They both have return ability and they both can play special teams,” Wyman said. “… I think (Eskridge) and Tre Brown are going to get a chance to contribute significantly to special teams.”
Tre Norwood, DB, Steelers
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
MAY 18, 2021
Cam Sutton signed a two-year, $9 million contract with the Steelers in March despite the fact that he never developed into a full-time starter during his first four seasons in the league. Sutton is going to be a starter this season for the first time, but he earned the opportunity because his versatility made him a valuable member of the defense.
Sutton played outside corner, slot corner, safety and even dime linebacker over the past four seasons. Now, with Sutton penciled in as a starter at outside corner, the Steelers are searching for another versatile defender to fill his old role.
Tre Norwood, the Steelers’ seventh-round draft choice, will be vying for that job along with a number of others when OTAs begin next week at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.
“For me, I’m a guy who can play any position on the back end, wherever the coaches need me, whether it’s corner, nickel or safety,” Norwood said during last week’s rookie minicamp. “Whatever it is to help the team be better.”
Right now the plan is for Sutton to move inside to slot corner when the Steelers employ their nickel or dime defenses. James Pierre and Justin Layne will get first crack at playing outside corner, which in essence is a starting role because the Steelers played last season in their nickel or dime nearly 75% of the time.
However, if Pierre or Layne don’t distinguish themselves as viable options in camp, the coaches are going to need a Plan B. Either way, it’s always a good idea to have a jack-of-all-trades defensive back who can move around in the secondary.
Tomlin referred to Norwood as a “Swiss army knife” in Oklahoma’s defense, and the Steelers will look at his skill set over the coming months and determine if he can earn a roster spot in a defensive backfield that is thin on experience after the offseason departures of Steven Nelson and Mike Hilton.
Norwood was a cornerback early in his college career and eventually settled in as a slot corner and safety in his final seasons with the Sooners. It’s early, but Norwood indicated the Steelers are going to give him a taste of each position in the coming weeks before training camp in July.
He won’t be the only player competing for a role this summer. Antoine Brooks, a sixth-round pick last year, will be looking to expand his role. He played in four games as a rookie and played 29 defensive snaps. Others will be competing for roster sports, as well, including undrafted free agent cornerbacks Shakur Brown and Lamont Wade and free agent safety Arthur Maulet.
Of that group, Norwood and Maulet are probably most like Sutton. Because of their smaller stature, Brown and Wade project as slot corners while Brooks was a safety in college whose build could allow him to vie for dime linebacker duties.
Sutton was one of the first players from the Steelers to speak with Norwood after he was drafted.
https://www.post-gazette.com/sports...-their-early-projections/stories/202105180139
“Cam and I train at the same spot in Tampa,” Norwood said. “I kind of knew of him before I got here. He reached out to me after the draft as soon as it ended and extended his arms as a big brother. I can’t wait to sit down and pick his brain and get to know more about this defense so I can know the ins and outs and continue to get better.”
In addition to his position versatility, Norwood has another thing going for him. He comes to the Steelers with a reputation for being an opportunistic player. He had an interception in five of his final six games at Oklahoma, and he returned one of them for a touchdown.
“As a player I pride myself on that,” Norwood said. “That was a strong point for us at Oklahoma. Turnover margin is a key part to winning the game. Going out there and making plays on the ball, whether it’s an interception or forced fumble, I see myself as a guy who can be a playmaker when the ball is in the air.”
Creed Humphrey, Center, Chiefs
Tue, June 1, 2021, 10:33 AM·2 min read
There is a new left-handed center in town for the Kansas City Chiefs. Organized team activities (OTAs) are underway and player evaluations during the offseason have begun. The team has concluded the first three phases and the squad is building the foundation for the 2021 NFL season.
With strict guidelines in place on formations, scheme and player lineups, media members have not been allowed to disclose much information on who is taking reps where. With some observations and roles revealed by the coaching staff, Chiefs Wire’ released a breakdown of the five offensive lineman taking reps with the starting unit this week. The group includes former Oklahoma Sooner, Creed Humphrey.
That is a lofty job for a rookie but Humphrey has been primed for the leadership role. Mahomes has taken the NFL by storm with his arm-talent, and Humphrey moves from arguably college football’s most explosive offense under Lincoln Riley to the NFL’s with the Chiefs. Humphrey’s wrestling background translates into leverage and superb technique in the trenches.
The weak spot for Kansas City’s offense last year was the offensive line, which Andy Reid prioritized during the draft/free agency. Mahomes took a beating in Super Bowl LV by the Bucs’ defense, and a bolstered unit will hit the turf in 2021. The team is poised for contention once again and Humphrey will be a key. He will be one to watch throughout the remainder of the offseason.
Orlando Brown, OT, Chiefs
May 28, 2021 7:15 am CT
The blockbuster trade this offseason during which the Kansas City Chiefs acquired offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr. sent shockwaves around the league. The trade with a conference rival in the Baltimore Ravens gave the Chiefs an immediate sense of stability on Patrick Mahomes’ blind side.
The new left tackle was a participant during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) in an effort to get acclimated to the Chiefs’ system. Brown Jr. spoke with reporters on Thursday about his progress.
“It’s been going great, man. It‘s been going great,” Brown Jr. told reporters. “It’s different obviously with it being a new team for me. A bunch of great men in this locker room, a lot of good leadership, a lot of men who have played ball for a long time and have been around the game. I’m just being a sponge soaking in as much as I can from some of these older guys in this locker room and all the knowledge that they have and experience they have, things that they’ve been through here in Kansas City or in the pros period. It’s been great, the team has taken me in, the coaches have taken me in and I’m just working every day.”
Part of the adjustment for Brown Jr. has been getting adjusted to a new coaching staff. The new Chief spoke about his blossoming relationship with his new offensive line coach, Andy Heck.
“Coach Heck is great. He’s an incredible coach, and he understands the X’s and O’s,” Brown Jr. said. “He’s played the game, he’s been around the game for a long time, so he knows, he’s super easy to get along with and learn. I’ve been in Baltimore for the last three years, so there’s certain things; I guess you could say I’m wired a certain way on certain things, and I’m unwiring and learning his new techniques and certain things he’s teaching. I think it’s going to be incredible for my game.”
Brown Jr. has been named to consecutive Pro Bowls, one season playing right tackle and the 2020 season playing on the left side. In addition to learning the new scheme and how the Chiefs do things, Brown Jr. is working on getting his timing down and building chemistry with his teammates. He’s thankful to have the ability to do so in person this year.
“Very important, very important. To me, especially upfront and maybe for quarterbacks as well, it’s important to get that live timing against a real body, get that live timing against a real defensive end, the rusher, the time of the snap count, the system, all of those different things,” Brown Jr. explained. “I think that I’m at a point in my career where these types of off-seasons and being able to practice against live personnel helps me a lot. I’m able to focus on things that I may not have been able to focus on last year and be able to craft. I take this time to really just develop my game into a different way; that way, I can hit the ground running here in June once we get out and translate that to camp and the season, but it’s very important.”
The Chiefs’ offensive line additions, including Brown Jr, will be under the microscope leading up to and during the season. A strong start from the new players will help quiet critics from the Super Bowl LV loss and turn the attention toward the future.
Ronnie Perkins, DE, Patriots
By Randolph Charlotin
Jun. 02, 2021
Ronnie Perkins Doesn’t Measure Up, which is Good
When it comes to defensive ends, I don’t care if he is 6-5, 260 pounds and ripped. The most important thing I’m looking for is effort.
We know all too well about the players that look the part, but don’t have heart. Measureables look great on paper, but give me the guy that competes from snap to whistle. Someone who puts out second and third efforts.
Ronnie Perkins does that. Watch how his pass rush takes him past the quarterback on a receiver screen play. Perkins circles back around and tackles the receiver from behind.
Three minutes later, Perkins is sucked in on a screen play to the running back. He turns around and chases down the back after a 12-yard gain.
It’s that kind of effort that stands out about Perkins. Because the measureables aren’t ideal. He’s listed at 6-3, 253 pounds according to NFL.com. His Relative Athletic Score of 5.14 is mediocre.
The tape doesn’t lie either. While Perkins has a respectable 4.71 40-yard dash, the slow splits at 10 and 20 yards is visible. Perkins isn’t explosive off the line.
And his 25 reps on the bench press is middle of the pack.
None of that matters when it comes to performance. The lack of speed/quickness didn’t keep Perkins from beating blockers before tackling ball carriers behind the line. Average strength? It doesn’t look like it when he holds the edge on run plays or strong arms offensive tackles before burying the passer.
According to Pro Football Focus, Perkins was the only defensive lineman with 90+ grades in run defense and pass rush in 2020. That added up to Perkins being the 14th pass rusher selected.
The ability to defend the run as well as the pass is what appealed to head coach Bill Belichick. In just six games Perkins had 5.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for a loss. If he wasn’t suspended for the first five games of the season, Perkins might had doubled those numbers.
Hopefully Belichick appreciates Perkins, the pass rusher. Belichick values pressure, but quarterbacks are better at performing under pressure than ever before, or have the ability to escape pressure altogether and make plays.
Not that the Patriots made QBs uncomfortable. The Patriots were 23rd in Pro Football Focus’ pass rush rankings and 26th in the NFL in sacks with 24.
Quarterbacks can’t complete passes if they’re sacked, and New England’s off-season Seems to have had that in mind. The Patriots spent big for LB Matt Judon, brought back LB Kyle Van Noy, re-signed DL Deatrich Wise Jr., and drafted DT Christian Barmore and Perkins.
That’s a lot of players to improve the pass rush before Perkins. To make it more challenging, he will likely have to change position from defensive end to linebacker in New England’s defense. That learning curve could slow down Perkins’ development.
But that’s just a depth chart. Numbers on paper hadn’t kept Perkins from being productive before. That might not change now that he’s a Patriot.
Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, Patriots
By Khari Thompson
June 2, 2021 | 5:58 PM
After years of featuring shifty pass-catching backs like Shane Vereen, Rex Burkhead, and James White to complement Tom Brady’s quick passing attacks, the New England Patriots appear to be trending in a new direction post-Brady: pound the rock.
New England could be gearing up for another run at bully ball in 2021 — one of the few things that worked well for them offensively last season.
The team already has established runners in Damien Harris, Sony Michel, and quarterback Cam Newton (assuming he plays much this year). But one big name to watch in the currently crowded running back room is fourth-round pick Rhamondre Stevenson.
The rookie averaged 7.2 yards a tote on just 165 career carries and scored 13 touchdowns in his two college years, establishing himself as the focal point of the Sooners offensive attack.
He’s not going to come in and immediately get “bell cow”-type carries for the Patriots. There are several talented runners above him on the depth chart, and he also needs to show he can be trusted on passing downs.
But his skill set is such that he both stands a good chance of making the 53-man roster and seeing some early touches for the Patriots’ ground-and-pound game.
Take him head-on, and he’ll bounce right off of you or take you for a ride. Come at him from an angle, and you’re liable to catch a stiff arm to the jaw you won’t forget.
But Stevenson is more than just a bowling ball. He also is capable of running with patience, allowing blocks to set up and holes to fully open before charging through the breach.
Stevenson vs. Florida (2020)
At times, Stevenson does leave yards on the field by bouncing runs outside too quickly rather than staying the course and getting north and south. He’s best as a one-cut, downhill runner, but he’ll abandon those instincts if there’s quick penetration into the backfield.
Oklahoma State did a good job of putting bodies in the backfield and pushing him toward the sideline early in their matchup last year. But they couldn’t keep Stevenson down forever: he finished the game with 141 yards on 26 carries.
Eventually, as with his idol LaGarrette Blount, a hard-charging Stevenson to close out a football game is something defenses simply don’t want any part of.
But he’s also more than a bulldozer with legs.
His straight-line speed won’t wow anyone (though a 4.64 40-yard dash isn’t bad for a running back weighing in at more than 230 pounds.) So don’t expect him to run away from NFL defensive backs.
But you also shouldn’t make the mistake of thinking he’s “slow.” Stevenson possesses excellent burst for a back his size. Once he finds his lane to get downhill, he hits it with surprising acceleration.
Here, he blows by a linebacker at the second level who has an angle en route to a big gain.
Stevenson vs. Florida (2020)
His tape is full of runs like this — tacklers that arrive a half-step late flailing at the air as he surges past them through a hole or lulls them to sleep before blasting around the edge.
While everyone salivates over home run-hitting speed out of the backfield, short-area quickness is a more important trait for a running back on an every-play basis. Stevenson has more than enough of that.
Harris showed last year that you don’t need to run a 4.2 40 to rip off big runs on a regular basis. Perhaps the Patriots’ newest running back can do the same.
Most importantly, he’ll need to stick his nose in to protect his quarterback.
The tape shows a willing blocker on passing downs with the physicality to be stout in blitz pickup. He’s not shy about bringing his pads with him against oncoming rushes and is hard to overwhelm with a bullrush when he has his legs under him.
That said, he needs additional coaching and reps to refine his technique as a pass-blocker.
Stevenson vs. Texas Tech (2020)
Though Stevenson manages to keep his quarterback clean against this safety blitz by Texas Tech, he makes the mistake of lunging at his target rather than staying square and using his arms to engage. The blitzer bounces off his glancing blow and nearly gets the sack.
Stevenson does recover to allow his quarterback to extend the play, but he’s proven capable of much better reps than that one. Case in point: he stays much more disciplined and balanced on a similar blitz against Oklahoma State.
Stevenson vs. Oklahoma State (2020)
The area with the most untapped potential for Stevenson might be his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
He caught just 28 passes for 298 yards in his two years as a starting running back with Oklahoma. But 211 of those receiving yards came last year despite him catching just eight more passes in 2020 than in 2019.
He’s no James White and may not have the ability to run refined routes out of the backfield yet, but he’s dangerous on screens and swings into the flat when given space to run.
Stevenson vs. Oklahoma State (2020)
Look for the Patriots to explore what Stevenson can do as a receiver during early practices and training camp as he fights for his chance to make the roster. Having White to learn from would be especially helpful.
If Stevenson is the runner his college tape says he is, he might already be on the road to overtaking Michel for carries. But he also prides himself on his special teams contributions, covering kicks frequently in college. That factor more than anything will put him in a good position for surviving final cuts this fall.
The “battering-ram” rookie might not be the flashiest runner the Patriots could have added to their running back room. But given what New England appears to be preparing to do offensively, Stevenson’s fit with the Patriots couldn’t be better.
Adrian Ealy, OT, Ravens
By Kyle P Barber@BB_KylePBarber May 20, 2021, 9:00am EDT
***
After Washington, the Ravens biggest [UDFA] name comes in the form of 6-foot-6, 318 pound Adrian Ealy. In fact, the Ravens showed real interest with Ealy, offering him $115k guaranteed. Among AFC UDFA’s, that was ranked No. 21 for guarantees and most for the Ravens UDFA class. As Baltimore situates their offensive line, they will be looking for depth at the tackle position and Ealy could very well find a spot. Baltimore’s tackle depth is thin after Orlando Brown Jr. was traded and D.J. Fluker signed with the Miami Dolphins this offseason.
--Outside linebacker Daelin Hayes had a standout day in 11-on-11 action. On a play-action drop-back, he dipped around undrafted tackle Adrian Ealy, a two-year starter and All-Big 12 Conference selection at Oklahoma, for a quarterback pressure.
--Tackle Adrian Ealy looked a bit more polished than I expected. There may be something to build on with the former Oklahoma Sooner. Word is that O-line coach Joe D’Alessandris is looking forward to working with Ealy.
Most Likely UDFA to Make Each NFL Team
Villanueva signed a two-year deal, but Baltimore can release him next year and save $6 million. Whether he's with the team in 2022 or not, the Ravens will be searching for a long-term right tackle.
Tyre Phillips, whom the Ravens drafted in last year's third round, hasn't found a home along the line. Ultimately, he could be a guard.
Oklahoma's Adrian Ealy spent the last two seasons at right tackle. He's an aggressive blocker in both the run game and his pass set. Ealy plays stiff and isn't nimble. At the same time, Brown wasn't a stellar athlete, either. But both showed how effective they can be in Lincoln Riley's explosive offense.
Amidst Crowded Competition, Seahawks Rookie Tre Brown On Mission to Play Immediately
Stacked against tough odds, rookie cornerback Tre Brown is earning the faith of his coaching staff as he aims for a Week 1 starting job.TY DANE GONZALEZ MAY 28, 2021
RENTON, WA - It's been nearly a month since cornerback Tre Brown was selected by the Seahawks in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In that short span of time, he's travelled to a brand-new city, taken part in his first NFL minicamp, and continues to get work in during organized team activities.
With the majority of Seattle's veteran players opting not to participate in these voluntary workouts, rookies like Brown are getting plenty of opportunities to make lasting impressions on head coach Pete Carroll and his staff. So far, Brown and his peers appear to be taking full advantage.
"I think you'd be surprised how sharp they are and how far along they've already come," Carroll told reporters following the conclusion of Thursday's OTAs. "They're working really hard, they're really diligent about it. It matters to these guys - obviously, 'cause they're putting in the time - and they're able to bring it from the meeting room to the field, so we're making good progress."
For Brown in particular, continuing that progression will be key as he prepares for a crowded competition at outside cornerback. That battle, in fact, has already begun in OTAs.
Among the five players seemingly vying for the starting job opposite incumbent D.J. Reed, free agent addition Ahkello Witherspoon may be the top dog for Brown to beat out. As it just so happens, Witherspoon is one of the few veteran players present at the Seahawks' team facility this week, though he's not participating in on-field activities as he recovers from a minor knee procedure.
With the other three potential candidates - Tre Flowers, Damarious Randall, and Pierre Desir - not in Renton, all eyes are on Brown. And by Carroll's account, the fourth-round pick out of Oklahoma has made his intentions clear through his first handful of practices.
"He's trying to make this team and he didn't come here to back up," Carroll stated.
"He's come here to play."
***
"He's a hard-working kid, he's got a good mind for battling and competing and he's after it," Carroll said of Brown. "So what he has to do: he's gotta show well in camp, gotta show well in preseason games, you know, to see if he can get to be a starter. He'll get a chance; we're gonna take a look at him. We wanna see him and we wanna make sure we can get a good evaluation of him."
One thing that won't be an issue for Brown is having the mentality necessary to live up to the moment. Having a chip on one's shoulder is a common - even cliché - phrase used by players with something to prove, but it's been a driving force of those that have come through under Carroll. Brown is no exception, having slid to the third and final day of the draft despite boasting one of the most impressive track records of all draft-eligible corners—in a Big 12 conference dominated by offensive powerhouses, no less.
Picking up on these things is relatively easy for a defensive backs guru like Carroll, who's been at his most successful in Seattle with unique competitive personalities such as Richard Sherman in tow. And, as he's seen with players of that mold, conducting oneself in this manner can go a long way to paving out a lasting and fruitful career in the NFL.
"[Brown]'s one of those guys, you know, he's got that mentality about it," Carroll explained. "He's tough and he wants to prove it. That's getting you going in the right direction, so we'll see how he battles."
Dave Wyman’s Observations: Top standouts from Seahawks rookie minicamp
BY BRANDON GUSTAFSONMAY 18, 2021 AT 10:47 AM
The two stars from Wyman’s time at the Seahawks’ practices were the team’s first two draft picks in 2021 – second-round receiver D’Wayne Eskridge and fourth-round cornerback Tre Brown.
With both of them, speed was what really was apparent.
“His speed is just phenomenal,” Wyman said of Eskridge. “Watching him on the field running fly sweeps, we saw a little bit of that and saw him get open on the sidelines. And look, he had some rookie mistakes. He had a drop on a throw that was there … he got his hands on it and probably should have caught it. But other than that he looked really good and really fast. His speed stands out.”
Brown is also exceptionally fast, but his physicality was something that really stood out to Wyman.
“The more I look at him and watch film and get to know him … he looks really good,” he said. “He was a little bit too physical on one play, so there was a little bit of a reprimanding that went on at practice, but it was done with a smile on (a coaching staff member’s) face because they’re like, ‘I love this, but we can’t do it’ … He blew up a smoke screen and there was a reverse that he blew up, so he looked really good. He’s just really fast. I would say he’s tenacious. He’s just all over you.”
It’s unclear how much Eskridge and Brown will play on offense and defense in 2021, respectively, but Wyman thinks both can be standouts on special teams right away.
“They both have return ability and they both can play special teams,” Wyman said. “… I think (Eskridge) and Tre Brown are going to get a chance to contribute significantly to special teams.”
Tre Norwood, DB, Steelers
Cam Sutton has ascended to starting status. Now who becomes the Steelers' next jack-of-all-trades?
RAY FITTIPALDOPittsburgh Post-Gazette
MAY 18, 2021
Cam Sutton signed a two-year, $9 million contract with the Steelers in March despite the fact that he never developed into a full-time starter during his first four seasons in the league. Sutton is going to be a starter this season for the first time, but he earned the opportunity because his versatility made him a valuable member of the defense.
Sutton played outside corner, slot corner, safety and even dime linebacker over the past four seasons. Now, with Sutton penciled in as a starter at outside corner, the Steelers are searching for another versatile defender to fill his old role.
Tre Norwood, the Steelers’ seventh-round draft choice, will be vying for that job along with a number of others when OTAs begin next week at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.
“For me, I’m a guy who can play any position on the back end, wherever the coaches need me, whether it’s corner, nickel or safety,” Norwood said during last week’s rookie minicamp. “Whatever it is to help the team be better.”
Right now the plan is for Sutton to move inside to slot corner when the Steelers employ their nickel or dime defenses. James Pierre and Justin Layne will get first crack at playing outside corner, which in essence is a starting role because the Steelers played last season in their nickel or dime nearly 75% of the time.
However, if Pierre or Layne don’t distinguish themselves as viable options in camp, the coaches are going to need a Plan B. Either way, it’s always a good idea to have a jack-of-all-trades defensive back who can move around in the secondary.
Tomlin referred to Norwood as a “Swiss army knife” in Oklahoma’s defense, and the Steelers will look at his skill set over the coming months and determine if he can earn a roster spot in a defensive backfield that is thin on experience after the offseason departures of Steven Nelson and Mike Hilton.
Norwood was a cornerback early in his college career and eventually settled in as a slot corner and safety in his final seasons with the Sooners. It’s early, but Norwood indicated the Steelers are going to give him a taste of each position in the coming weeks before training camp in July.
He won’t be the only player competing for a role this summer. Antoine Brooks, a sixth-round pick last year, will be looking to expand his role. He played in four games as a rookie and played 29 defensive snaps. Others will be competing for roster sports, as well, including undrafted free agent cornerbacks Shakur Brown and Lamont Wade and free agent safety Arthur Maulet.
Of that group, Norwood and Maulet are probably most like Sutton. Because of their smaller stature, Brown and Wade project as slot corners while Brooks was a safety in college whose build could allow him to vie for dime linebacker duties.
Sutton was one of the first players from the Steelers to speak with Norwood after he was drafted.
https://www.post-gazette.com/sports...-their-early-projections/stories/202105180139
“Cam and I train at the same spot in Tampa,” Norwood said. “I kind of knew of him before I got here. He reached out to me after the draft as soon as it ended and extended his arms as a big brother. I can’t wait to sit down and pick his brain and get to know more about this defense so I can know the ins and outs and continue to get better.”
In addition to his position versatility, Norwood has another thing going for him. He comes to the Steelers with a reputation for being an opportunistic player. He had an interception in five of his final six games at Oklahoma, and he returned one of them for a touchdown.
“As a player I pride myself on that,” Norwood said. “That was a strong point for us at Oklahoma. Turnover margin is a key part to winning the game. Going out there and making plays on the ball, whether it’s an interception or forced fumble, I see myself as a guy who can be a playmaker when the ball is in the air.”
Creed Humphrey, Center, Chiefs
Creed Humphrey could be Week 1 starter for Kansas City Chiefs
Brianna DixTue, June 1, 2021, 10:33 AM·2 min read
There is a new left-handed center in town for the Kansas City Chiefs. Organized team activities (OTAs) are underway and player evaluations during the offseason have begun. The team has concluded the first three phases and the squad is building the foundation for the 2021 NFL season.
With strict guidelines in place on formations, scheme and player lineups, media members have not been allowed to disclose much information on who is taking reps where. With some observations and roles revealed by the coaching staff, Chiefs Wire’ released a breakdown of the five offensive lineman taking reps with the starting unit this week. The group includes former Oklahoma Sooner, Creed Humphrey.
Under the leadership of Bill Bedenbaugh, Humphrey produced an impressive resume at OU. He did not allow a single sack during the duration of his three-year career in Norman, paving the way for Heisman Trophy winner Kyler Murray and runner-up Jalen Hurts. He anchored Oklahoma’s great wall with near perfection in the interior. Now, he has the opportunity to protect ascending quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the pros.
That is a lofty job for a rookie but Humphrey has been primed for the leadership role. Mahomes has taken the NFL by storm with his arm-talent, and Humphrey moves from arguably college football’s most explosive offense under Lincoln Riley to the NFL’s with the Chiefs. Humphrey’s wrestling background translates into leverage and superb technique in the trenches.
The weak spot for Kansas City’s offense last year was the offensive line, which Andy Reid prioritized during the draft/free agency. Mahomes took a beating in Super Bowl LV by the Bucs’ defense, and a bolstered unit will hit the turf in 2021. The team is poised for contention once again and Humphrey will be a key. He will be one to watch throughout the remainder of the offseason.
Orlando Brown, OT, Chiefs
Orlando Brown Jr. praises Chiefs offensive line coach Andy Heck
Ed Easton Jr.May 28, 2021 7:15 am CT
The blockbuster trade this offseason during which the Kansas City Chiefs acquired offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr. sent shockwaves around the league. The trade with a conference rival in the Baltimore Ravens gave the Chiefs an immediate sense of stability on Patrick Mahomes’ blind side.
The new left tackle was a participant during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) in an effort to get acclimated to the Chiefs’ system. Brown Jr. spoke with reporters on Thursday about his progress.
“It’s been going great, man. It‘s been going great,” Brown Jr. told reporters. “It’s different obviously with it being a new team for me. A bunch of great men in this locker room, a lot of good leadership, a lot of men who have played ball for a long time and have been around the game. I’m just being a sponge soaking in as much as I can from some of these older guys in this locker room and all the knowledge that they have and experience they have, things that they’ve been through here in Kansas City or in the pros period. It’s been great, the team has taken me in, the coaches have taken me in and I’m just working every day.”
Part of the adjustment for Brown Jr. has been getting adjusted to a new coaching staff. The new Chief spoke about his blossoming relationship with his new offensive line coach, Andy Heck.
“Coach Heck is great. He’s an incredible coach, and he understands the X’s and O’s,” Brown Jr. said. “He’s played the game, he’s been around the game for a long time, so he knows, he’s super easy to get along with and learn. I’ve been in Baltimore for the last three years, so there’s certain things; I guess you could say I’m wired a certain way on certain things, and I’m unwiring and learning his new techniques and certain things he’s teaching. I think it’s going to be incredible for my game.”
Brown Jr. has been named to consecutive Pro Bowls, one season playing right tackle and the 2020 season playing on the left side. In addition to learning the new scheme and how the Chiefs do things, Brown Jr. is working on getting his timing down and building chemistry with his teammates. He’s thankful to have the ability to do so in person this year.
“Very important, very important. To me, especially upfront and maybe for quarterbacks as well, it’s important to get that live timing against a real body, get that live timing against a real defensive end, the rusher, the time of the snap count, the system, all of those different things,” Brown Jr. explained. “I think that I’m at a point in my career where these types of off-seasons and being able to practice against live personnel helps me a lot. I’m able to focus on things that I may not have been able to focus on last year and be able to craft. I take this time to really just develop my game into a different way; that way, I can hit the ground running here in June once we get out and translate that to camp and the season, but it’s very important.”
The Chiefs’ offensive line additions, including Brown Jr, will be under the microscope leading up to and during the season. A strong start from the new players will help quiet critics from the Super Bowl LV loss and turn the attention toward the future.
Ronnie Perkins, DE, Patriots
Ronnie Perkins Doesn’t Measure Up, Which is Good
By Randolph Charlotin
Jun. 02, 2021
Ronnie Perkins Doesn’t Measure Up, which is Good
When it comes to defensive ends, I don’t care if he is 6-5, 260 pounds and ripped. The most important thing I’m looking for is effort.
We know all too well about the players that look the part, but don’t have heart. Measureables look great on paper, but give me the guy that competes from snap to whistle. Someone who puts out second and third efforts.
Ronnie Perkins does that. Watch how his pass rush takes him past the quarterback on a receiver screen play. Perkins circles back around and tackles the receiver from behind.
Three minutes later, Perkins is sucked in on a screen play to the running back. He turns around and chases down the back after a 12-yard gain.
It’s that kind of effort that stands out about Perkins. Because the measureables aren’t ideal. He’s listed at 6-3, 253 pounds according to NFL.com. His Relative Athletic Score of 5.14 is mediocre.
The tape doesn’t lie either. While Perkins has a respectable 4.71 40-yard dash, the slow splits at 10 and 20 yards is visible. Perkins isn’t explosive off the line.
And his 25 reps on the bench press is middle of the pack.
None of that matters when it comes to performance. The lack of speed/quickness didn’t keep Perkins from beating blockers before tackling ball carriers behind the line. Average strength? It doesn’t look like it when he holds the edge on run plays or strong arms offensive tackles before burying the passer.
According to Pro Football Focus, Perkins was the only defensive lineman with 90+ grades in run defense and pass rush in 2020. That added up to Perkins being the 14th pass rusher selected.
The ability to defend the run as well as the pass is what appealed to head coach Bill Belichick. In just six games Perkins had 5.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for a loss. If he wasn’t suspended for the first five games of the season, Perkins might had doubled those numbers.
Hopefully Belichick appreciates Perkins, the pass rusher. Belichick values pressure, but quarterbacks are better at performing under pressure than ever before, or have the ability to escape pressure altogether and make plays.
Not that the Patriots made QBs uncomfortable. The Patriots were 23rd in Pro Football Focus’ pass rush rankings and 26th in the NFL in sacks with 24.
Quarterbacks can’t complete passes if they’re sacked, and New England’s off-season Seems to have had that in mind. The Patriots spent big for LB Matt Judon, brought back LB Kyle Van Noy, re-signed DL Deatrich Wise Jr., and drafted DT Christian Barmore and Perkins.
That’s a lot of players to improve the pass rush before Perkins. To make it more challenging, he will likely have to change position from defensive end to linebacker in New England’s defense. That learning curve could slow down Perkins’ development.
But that’s just a depth chart. Numbers on paper hadn’t kept Perkins from being productive before. That might not change now that he’s a Patriot.
Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, Patriots
Why Patriots rookie Rhamondre Stevenson can thrive right away in ‘bully-ball’ offense
Stevenson's hard-running style and underrated elusiveness make him an intriguing addition to a loaded Patriots backfield.
By Khari Thompson
June 2, 2021 | 5:58 PM
After years of featuring shifty pass-catching backs like Shane Vereen, Rex Burkhead, and James White to complement Tom Brady’s quick passing attacks, the New England Patriots appear to be trending in a new direction post-Brady: pound the rock.
New England could be gearing up for another run at bully ball in 2021 — one of the few things that worked well for them offensively last season.
The team already has established runners in Damien Harris, Sony Michel, and quarterback Cam Newton (assuming he plays much this year). But one big name to watch in the currently crowded running back room is fourth-round pick Rhamondre Stevenson.
The rookie averaged 7.2 yards a tote on just 165 career carries and scored 13 touchdowns in his two college years, establishing himself as the focal point of the Sooners offensive attack.
He’s not going to come in and immediately get “bell cow”-type carries for the Patriots. There are several talented runners above him on the depth chart, and he also needs to show he can be trusted on passing downs.
But his skill set is such that he both stands a good chance of making the 53-man roster and seeing some early touches for the Patriots’ ground-and-pound game.
He can run with menace and finesse
Stevenson’s toughness and aggression as a runner are among his biggest selling points. He’ll rarely run out of bounds willingly and is only too happy to seek contact and fight for extra yards.Take him head-on, and he’ll bounce right off of you or take you for a ride. Come at him from an angle, and you’re liable to catch a stiff arm to the jaw you won’t forget.
But Stevenson is more than just a bowling ball. He also is capable of running with patience, allowing blocks to set up and holes to fully open before charging through the breach.
Stevenson vs. Florida (2020)
At times, Stevenson does leave yards on the field by bouncing runs outside too quickly rather than staying the course and getting north and south. He’s best as a one-cut, downhill runner, but he’ll abandon those instincts if there’s quick penetration into the backfield.
Oklahoma State did a good job of putting bodies in the backfield and pushing him toward the sideline early in their matchup last year. But they couldn’t keep Stevenson down forever: he finished the game with 141 yards on 26 carries.
Eventually, as with his idol LaGarrette Blount, a hard-charging Stevenson to close out a football game is something defenses simply don’t want any part of.
But he’s also more than a bulldozer with legs.
His straight-line speed won’t wow anyone (though a 4.64 40-yard dash isn’t bad for a running back weighing in at more than 230 pounds.) So don’t expect him to run away from NFL defensive backs.
But you also shouldn’t make the mistake of thinking he’s “slow.” Stevenson possesses excellent burst for a back his size. Once he finds his lane to get downhill, he hits it with surprising acceleration.
Here, he blows by a linebacker at the second level who has an angle en route to a big gain.
Stevenson vs. Florida (2020)
His tape is full of runs like this — tacklers that arrive a half-step late flailing at the air as he surges past them through a hole or lulls them to sleep before blasting around the edge.
While everyone salivates over home run-hitting speed out of the backfield, short-area quickness is a more important trait for a running back on an every-play basis. Stevenson has more than enough of that.
Harris showed last year that you don’t need to run a 4.2 40 to rip off big runs on a regular basis. Perhaps the Patriots’ newest running back can do the same.
He can be an asset in the passing game
Stevenson’s pure running ability will get him a touch or two here and there. But producing good snaps on passing downs is the key to him carving out a real role in the Patriots offense.Most importantly, he’ll need to stick his nose in to protect his quarterback.
The tape shows a willing blocker on passing downs with the physicality to be stout in blitz pickup. He’s not shy about bringing his pads with him against oncoming rushes and is hard to overwhelm with a bullrush when he has his legs under him.
That said, he needs additional coaching and reps to refine his technique as a pass-blocker.
Stevenson vs. Texas Tech (2020)
Though Stevenson manages to keep his quarterback clean against this safety blitz by Texas Tech, he makes the mistake of lunging at his target rather than staying square and using his arms to engage. The blitzer bounces off his glancing blow and nearly gets the sack.
Stevenson does recover to allow his quarterback to extend the play, but he’s proven capable of much better reps than that one. Case in point: he stays much more disciplined and balanced on a similar blitz against Oklahoma State.
Stevenson vs. Oklahoma State (2020)
The area with the most untapped potential for Stevenson might be his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
He caught just 28 passes for 298 yards in his two years as a starting running back with Oklahoma. But 211 of those receiving yards came last year despite him catching just eight more passes in 2020 than in 2019.
He’s no James White and may not have the ability to run refined routes out of the backfield yet, but he’s dangerous on screens and swings into the flat when given space to run.
Stevenson vs. Oklahoma State (2020)
Look for the Patriots to explore what Stevenson can do as a receiver during early practices and training camp as he fights for his chance to make the roster. Having White to learn from would be especially helpful.
If Stevenson is the runner his college tape says he is, he might already be on the road to overtaking Michel for carries. But he also prides himself on his special teams contributions, covering kicks frequently in college. That factor more than anything will put him in a good position for surviving final cuts this fall.
The “battering-ram” rookie might not be the flashiest runner the Patriots could have added to their running back room. But given what New England appears to be preparing to do offensively, Stevenson’s fit with the Patriots couldn’t be better.
Adrian Ealy, OT, Ravens
NBC Sports ranks Ravens UDFA class second-best in the AFC
Landing Ar’Darius Washington is a big addition, according to Thor NystromBy Kyle P Barber@BB_KylePBarber May 20, 2021, 9:00am EDT
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After Washington, the Ravens biggest [UDFA] name comes in the form of 6-foot-6, 318 pound Adrian Ealy. In fact, the Ravens showed real interest with Ealy, offering him $115k guaranteed. Among AFC UDFA’s, that was ranked No. 21 for guarantees and most for the Ravens UDFA class. As Baltimore situates their offensive line, they will be looking for depth at the tackle position and Ealy could very well find a spot. Baltimore’s tackle depth is thin after Orlando Brown Jr. was traded and D.J. Fluker signed with the Miami Dolphins this offseason.
--Outside linebacker Daelin Hayes had a standout day in 11-on-11 action. On a play-action drop-back, he dipped around undrafted tackle Adrian Ealy, a two-year starter and All-Big 12 Conference selection at Oklahoma, for a quarterback pressure.
--Tackle Adrian Ealy looked a bit more polished than I expected. There may be something to build on with the former Oklahoma Sooner. Word is that O-line coach Joe D’Alessandris is looking forward to working with Ealy.
Most Likely UDFA to Make Each NFL Team
Baltimore Ravens: OT Adrian Ealy, Oklahoma
The Baltimore Ravens obliged Orlando Brown Jr. by trading him to the Kansas City Chiefs. In turn, the Ravens signed seven-year veteran Alejandro Villanueva to take over right tackle duties.Villanueva signed a two-year deal, but Baltimore can release him next year and save $6 million. Whether he's with the team in 2022 or not, the Ravens will be searching for a long-term right tackle.
Tyre Phillips, whom the Ravens drafted in last year's third round, hasn't found a home along the line. Ultimately, he could be a guard.
Oklahoma's Adrian Ealy spent the last two seasons at right tackle. He's an aggressive blocker in both the run game and his pass set. Ealy plays stiff and isn't nimble. At the same time, Brown wasn't a stellar athlete, either. But both showed how effective they can be in Lincoln Riley's explosive offense.
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