tiggerpolice

Scouts views: Training camp
Posted: July 19, 2005


Observations and opinions from two NFL scouts, one from each conference:

"I don't think the Steelers' passing game will change much without Plaxico Burress. Antwaan Randle El gives up size, but he has the speed and quickness to make the big plays downfield that they need. As long as Hines Ward is hanging tough on the shorter routes, the deep stuff will open up for Randle El. He was a real spark for them when he got his chances with Burress out last year. ...

The Saints have a nice group of defensive ends in Darren Howard, Will Smith and Charles Grant. It doesn't matter who leaves camp as the two starters because all three will play significant roles in rushing the passer in their rotation. Grant is the best one -- he just blows by people. The ends will need help from the secondary, which needs to hold up in coverage longer so they can get to the quarterback. Having CB Mike McKenzie in camp and set for a full season is a big thing. ...
Lions QB Joey Harrington doesn't have to change much in what he's doing to remain the team's starter in camp-he just needs to stay focused and maintain consistency. Having RB Kevin Jones certainly takes much of the pressure off. ...

I think the Chargers made a great move in drafting DT Luis Castillo. With Jamal Williams banged up and getting up there in age (29), they needed to get a younger guy who could play the nose in the future. They need to get their other rookie, OLB Shawne Merriman, into camp on time because he's a guy they need to produce right away. ...

In the Chargers' secondary, CB Quentin Jammer has shown he can play physical; now the question is how well he can put together what he's learned in coverage the past three years. He needs to grow up faster with Randy Moss in the division. ...

Rams RB Steven Jackson will pick up the little things he needs to be a complete back; he just needs time. He has all the natural ability, and the blocking will come with getting the reps of a starter. It was the same way for a young Marshall Faulk. ...

The Bengals' offense should be ready to bust out. It all starts with their strong line, and now that QB Carson Palmer is settled in, WR Chad Johnson will be even better. Another key, however, may be backup RB Chris Perry. He was disappointing as a rookie before he got hurt (sports hernia). They need him to have a good camp to show he can take some of the backfield load. They can't afford for Rudi Johnson to wear down late in the season. ...

I really liked what the Falcons' defense did last year in the 4-3, and they should play faster this season. OLB Demorrio Williams has great speed and range, and that will only help fellow OLB Keith Brooking make more plays. CB DeAngelo Hall also is a burner, and having him stay healthy early will help the secondary jell. ...

I see the Cardinals as being improved tremendously on both sides of the ball, mainly because of Dennis Green having another year and bringing in veterans he trusts, such as SS Robert Griffith, to make the young players work harder and be more competitive. They have an aggressive scheme on defense, and guys such as OLB Karlos Dansby are perfect for it. I think with his instincts, rookie CB Antrel Rolle will have no trouble fitting in early. ...

It will be interesting to see if Dolphins QB A.J. Feeley shows enough improvement to hold the starting job. Gus Frerotte has been a career backup, but his arm and experience will be better for them if he's the top guy.


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