It is interesting that the most interesting thing to happen in the league yesterday as far as the Pittsburgh Steelers go is that a player on another team received a suspension. Of course, that player was former Steelers running back LeGarrette Blount, and it is relevant to Pittsburgh today because he was disciplined for an action that occurred while he was with the team, and it occurred with the Steelers’ starting running back, Le’Veon Bell.
Blount received a one-game suspension, which sets the floor for what Bell will receive, which is widely believed to be a two-game knock. But the more important element of this release should be that the announcement of Bell’s suspension shouldn’t be far behind.
In draft news, the Steelers sent a strong contingent to Florida’s Pro Day yesterday, including head coach Mike Tomlin, and they apparently spent a good amount of time with center and captain Max Garcia. The Steelers are interested in acquiring offensive line depth, and Garcia, like Wesley Johnson, has played at guard and tackle as well.
I have written previously that both the Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals have expressed more than passing interest in free agent tight end Rob Housler. Apparently, now the Cleveland Browns are also joining that party, as they have scheduled a visit for Housler.
The Browns are looking to replace Cameron Jordan, who signed with Miami during this offseason. The team does not have very compelling options left in terms of pass catchers, and they only have two on the roster.
The Ravens and the Bengals both figure to be in better shape overall at the tight end position, especially, in the Ravens’ case, if they get their starter back healthy at some point this year. While the Steelers could also use a quality young body at the position, they seem set on addressing tight end in the draft, if at all.
There have been rumors in the past that the Eagles and Browns may be interested in dealing, as Eagles head coach Chip Kelly reportedly wants Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota in the draft. the Eagles traded for Sam Bradford earlier this offseason, who it was suggested could be traded to the Browns.
Now, apparently, there is a suggestion that Johnny Manziel could be involved in those trade talks. Whether or not there’s any validity to these rumors is…questionable, I would think. But it would be fun to see.
Both the Browns and the Ravens reportedly have scheduled visits for Mississippi St linebacker Benardrick McKinney, who was recently invited to attend the NFL Draft. He is hoping to be the first inside linebacker off the board. The Ravens, in particular, however, wouldn’t seem to have a particular need as inside linebacker, especially after addressing the position in the first round last year.
