Ravens' Nico Siragusa 'Obviously Willing To Learn' Center Position

many Ravens fans probably thought the same thing: Is Nico related to former Ravens defensive tackle Tony Siragusa? ,After the Baltimore Ravens selected San Diego State offensive guard Nico Siragusa in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft

Nico Siragusa joined Glenn Clark Radio May 3 and revealed that he is related to a Tony Siragusa -- just not the one who played for the Ravens from 1997 to 2001 -- and he's been asked about his last name since he started playing football when he was about 16.

"You know how they have all those [websites] like Rivals and Scout and stuff? When you start getting offers, they interview you, and that's when they're like, 'Are you related to Tony Siragusa?' I was like, 'Nope,'" Nico Siragusa said. "My dad's name is Ramon Siragusa. He's a 5-foot-8 Puerto Rican dude. The funny thing is I have an uncle named Tony."

Nico Siragusa, a Chula Vista, Calif., native, was an Oakland Raiders fan growing up, and he remembers when the Ravens beat them in the AFC Championship Game in January 2001 with the help of Tony Siragusa.

" Nico Siragusa said. "Tony Siragusa had to go and crush [Raiders quarterback] Rich Gannon.","It was sad

Siragusa blocked for running back Donnel Pumphrey, who was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round in 2017, for four years. Pumphrey ran for an FBS-record 6,405 career yards,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/cody-whitehair-jersey-cheap ' title='Cody Whitehair Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Cody Whitehair Jersey</strong></a>, including 2,133 yards in 2016.

Siragusa said in the past that Pumphrey owes him some McDonald's food as a reward for Pumphrey's prolific rushing.

anyway. ,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/jonathan-bullard-jersey-cheap ' title='Jonathan Bullard Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Jonathan Bullard Jersey </strong></a>,Siragusa noted Pumphrey hasn't come through on payment -- not yet

"Since he's in Philadelphia, which I'm assuming is not that far away,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/eddie-goldman-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Eddie Goldman Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Eddie Goldman Jersey</strong></a>, we're going to have to meet halfway somewhere and he's for sure taking me to Ruth's Chris … or whatever fancy steakhouse,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/hroniss-grasu-jersey-cheap' title='Hroniss Grasu Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Hroniss Grasu Jersey</strong></a>," Siragusa said. "He's a fourth-rounder, so he's going to get some money, so we could take care of that and then we're good. And then he's going to take care of his O-linemen with the Eagles."

Siragusa was in Owings Mills, Md., for Baltimore's rookie minicamp May 5-7 to work out at the Ravens' facility for the first time and meet his new coaches and teammates. There are two openings on Baltimore's offensive line, and the 6-foot-4, 319-pound Siragusa will figure into the competition.

If Siragusa earns playing time in 2017, a middling mark. One scouting report said Siragusa is a "drive blocker with [the] strength to win individual battles" and "better-than-expected maneuverability when asked to pull." , he has a chance to impact a Baltimore team that rushed for 4.0 yards per carry last season

Ronnie Stanley and Marshal Yanda are entrenched at left tackle and right guard, respectively, but there's more flexibility with the other spots. Alex Lewis played left guard last season but was a left tackle at Nebraska in 2014 and 2015. Lewis could presumably bounce outside to right tackle, with Siragusa filling in at left guard. The competition for center also is wide open, though Siragusa has never played there before.

"I've never really snapped. If they want to teach me how to play center, I'm obviously willing to learn, but I haven't really played center before,<a href=' http://www.bearscheapstores.com/cody-whitehair-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Cody Whitehair Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Cody Whitehair Jersey</strong></a>," Siragusa said. "But I feel like I'm really football smart to where I could understand the schemes of the defense and offense and what calls to make and how to multi-task -- snapping and doing footwork at the same time.

"I just want to help the team win,<a href=' http://www.bearscheapstores.com/jonathan-bullard-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jonathan Bullard Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jonathan Bullard Jersey </strong></a>,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/kevin-white-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Kevin White Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Kevin White Jersey</strong></a>, and whatever that entails me to do -- if that means I've got to be the sixth guy and play both guard spots in case someone gets hurt, or be the backup center,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/kevin-white-jersey-cheap ' title='Kevin White Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Kevin White Jersey </strong></a>,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/eddie-goldman-jersey-cheap' title='Eddie Goldman Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Eddie Goldman Jersey</strong></a>, or come in on big-man packages, I don't care,<a href=' http://www.bearscheapstores.com/hroniss-grasu-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Hroniss Grasu Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Hroniss Grasu Jersey</strong></a>, just whatever it takes for the team to win."

CORNERBACK MARLON HUMPHREY GETTING ADJUSTED TO NFL LIFE

Marlon Humphrey is getting used to a new normal.

the former Alabama standout is now the low man on the totem pole. That was clear Thursday afternoon when he was pushed to the back of the press conference line after practice. ,<a href='http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/joe-mixon-jersey-cheap' title='Joe Mixon Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Joe Mixon Jersey</strong></a>,Even though he’s a first-round pick

” Coach Harbaugh joked as he walked past the rookie on his way to the microphone.,“Sorry Marlon

but he’s quickly gathering that the professional game is a whole other beast.,<a href=' http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/josh-malone-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Josh Malone Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Josh Malone Jersey</strong></a>,The No. 16 overall pick is learning what it takes to be an NFL player. He shined in a major college program

“It’s long days, get dinner, I’ll say that, but it seems like a normal job. You get breakfast, get lunch,” Humphrey said. “I used to always wonder how football could be a job, and in between you’re just doing football. That was probably the only thing that’s taking some time to get used to – having that 8-5 day.”

Humphrey has held his own.,On the field

He’s worked with the second team defense behind starting cornerbacks Jimmy Smith and Brandon Carr. He hasn’t been able to show his press coverage abilities, which may be his greatest strength,<a href='http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/john-ross-jersey-cheap ' title='John Ross Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>John Ross Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/jordan-willis-jersey-cheap ' title='Jordan Willis Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jordan Willis Jersey</strong></a>, because contact isn’t allowed during Organized Team Activities (OTAs).

and he’s also broken up a few passes.,But Humphrey has shown off his speed by running step-for-step with some of the team’s speedy receivers

Like all rookies,<a href='http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/carl-lawson-jersey-cheap' title='Carl Lawson Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Carl Lawson Jersey</strong></a>, he’s not a finished product. He found that out when third-year receiver Breshad Perriman beat him off the line on a slant route, caught a perfect pass from quarterback Joe Flacco and then outran him for a long touchdown.

“Breshad is pretty fast,” Humphrey said with a smile. “Half the time I’m so tired I don’t know who is who [at receiver], but I can always tell when they get to running.”

but he has time to develop. Having veteran starters in place at cornerback means the Ravens don’t have to rush Humphrey into the lineup.,The Ravens certainly have big expectations for Humphrey

Another possibility is for the Ravens to give Humphrey a look as a slot cornerback, depending on the severity of Tavon Young’s knee injury. Humphrey has never played that role in a game, but said he saw action there in practice at Alabama.

but for now the 20-year-old defender is just focused on learning from his elder peers.,Humphrey figures to be a significant piece of Baltimore’s defensive plans

“Those guys have a lot of experience, so I think it definitely helps,<a href=' http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/john-ross-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic John Ross Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic John Ross Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/joe-mixon-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Joe Mixon Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Joe Mixon Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/jordan-willis-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jordan Willis Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jordan Willis Jersey </strong></a>,<a href='http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/josh-malone-jersey-cheap' title='Josh Malone Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Josh Malone Jersey </strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/carl-lawson-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Carl Lawson Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Carl Lawson Jersey</strong></a>,” he said. “It helps me take those steps and kind of [makes] becoming that guy a little bit easier with all those guys around me.”

Jared Goff shows he's growing into role of Rams quarterback

Jared Goff stepped up in the pocket and fired a bullet, he hit Nelson Spruce for a long touchdown. And leading up to that impressive throw to Woods,<a href=' http://www.cowboyscheapstore.com/chidobe-awuzie-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Chidobe Awuzie Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Chidobe Awuzie Jersey</strong></a>, he made crisp, roughly 30 yards down the field, right into the hands of Robert Woods on a post route. Earlier, accurate passes to Tyler Higbee and Cooper Kupp as part of a two-minute drill.

It's only organized team activities, which means players are not in pads and live contact is not permitted, but Goff looked good on Monday.

Rams rookie coach Sean McVay is nonetheless reserving judgement.

"Until you’re actually live as a quarterback," McVay said. "You’re having to move with the rush, avoid guys that can really tackle you. That’s always the best evaluator. I think he has done a nice job improving every single day, that’s when you truly get challenged, and that’s what’s going to give us a chance.”

Goff, began his offseason by receiving instruction from noted quarterback guru Tom House. And ever since the official offseason program began, the 22-year-old has immersed himself in McVay's offense, with a 22.2 Total QBR in his brief NFL career, spending almost every possible waking minute at the Rams' facility. McVay said he has been "very pleased" with what Goff has done "above the neck."

His teammates have noticed more confidence, more conviction.

"You can tell,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/larry-ogunjobi-jersey-cheap ' title='Larry Ogunjobi Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Larry Ogunjobi Jersey</strong></a>, and keep that poise when things aren’t going well and when things are going well,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/zane-gonzalez-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Zane Gonzalez Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Zane Gonzalez Jersey</strong></a>," said Higbee,<a href=' http://www.cowboyscheapstore.com/taco-charlton-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Taco CharltonJersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Taco CharltonJersey </strong></a>, especially just starting with the command of the offense, him being able to take that and control the huddle and get guys lined up, Goff's roommate throughout training camp last year. "He looks good."

"More confident, more poised in the pocket" is how second-year receiver Mike Thomas compared this year's Goff to last year's Goff. "Letting the game come to him and taking his time, more relaxed, being patient on the field."

Goff is benefiting from having an entire NFL season under his belt and knowing from the start that he will be the starting quarterback -- but he must perform in order to keep his job.

and thus has no real loyalty to Goff,McVay wasn't around when the Rams moved up 14 spots to draft Goff No. 1 overall last spring, McVay probably won't have a hard time turning to his backup, who struggled mightily over the course of seven rookie starts, all of them losses. If Goff doesn't show signs that he is making significant strides toward at least becoming a reliable starting quarterback for the foreseeable future, Sean Mannion, a third-round pick in 2015 who hasn't seen much playing time yet.

McVay often has said he and his staff will "constantly evaluate guys."

Starting fresh allows him to keep an open mind at every position, including quarterback.

"Jared is our guy; we have a lot of confidence in what he's done, Jared has done that so far. It’s a one-day-at-a-time process,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/larry-ogunjobi-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Larry Ogunjobi Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Larry Ogunjobi Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/howard-wilson-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Howard Wilson Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Howard Wilson Jersey </strong></a>, but what he has done is just pick things up. He’s getting better every single day," McVay stressed after Monday's practice. "But we have confidence in Sean as well. ... We’re going to play the guys that give us the ability to win football games and the guys that are competing at the highest level. Clearly,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/howard-wilson-jersey-cheap' title='Howard Wilson Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Howard Wilson Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/zane-gonzalez-jersey-cheap ' title='Zane Gonzalez Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Zane Gonzalez Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.cowboyscheapstore.com/taco-charlton-jersey-cheap ' title='Taco Charlton Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Taco Charlton Jersey </strong></a>,<a href='http://www.cowboyscheapstore.com/chidobe-awuzie-jersey-cheap' title='Chidobe Awuzie Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Chidobe Awuzie Jersey</strong></a>, and he has definitely commanded that role. He did that again today."

Rams CB Trumaine Johnson returns to OTAs after week absence

or because he was upset about his contract situation.,<a href=' http://www.broncoscheapstore.com/chad-kelly-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Chad Kelly Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Chad Kelly Jersey </strong></a>, Trumaine Johnson claims he didn’t miss a week of offseason workouts because he was mad at the Los Angeles Rams

but he said his absence wasn’t related to uncertainty over his long-term future with the team.,<a href='http://www.broncoscheapstore.com/jake-butt-jersey-cheap ' title='Jake Butt Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Jake Butt Jersey </strong></a>,The high-priced cornerback returned to voluntary workouts with the Rams on Monday after skipping a week. Johnson neglected to inform Rams coach Sean McVay in advance that he would miss last week’s program

Johnson spent the week dealing with an unspecified personal matter.,Instead

”I understand it’s a distraction,” Johnson said after practice. ”I’ve got to do better of communicating with them. McVay reached out to me. Everybody reached out to me (last Tuesday). It was just a personal situation, and I reached them right back (a day later).”

While Johnson returned to workouts Monday, the Rams were without All-Pro defensive lineman Aaron Donald, while Robinson and Barwin informed the new coaching staff in advance that they couldn’t make it Monday, offensive tackle Greg Robinson and new linebacker Connor Barwin. Donald has skipped the entire three weeks of organized team activities while he works on a lucrative contract with the Rams, McVay said.

making $16.74 million.,Johnson has ample motivation to make a positive impression on the Rams’ staff before training camp. He is likely to be the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL this year if he plays for the second straight season under the franchise tag

but the team decided to wait to open negotiations until after their mandatory minicamp wraps up next week. Los Angeles general manager Les Snead has said the team first wanted to see how Johnson fits in the schemes of new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips.,Johnson clearly would prefer to reach a long-term deal with the Rams

he isn’t showing it. His one-year contract under the franchise tag can be replaced by a longer deal only if they reach a deal before July 15.,If Johnson has any uncertainty or dissatisfaction over his contract situation

”Right now, I’m happy to be here and playing ball,<a href=' http://www.broncoscheapstore.com/carlos-henderson-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Carlos Henderson Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Carlos Henderson Jersey</strong></a>, and when that contract stuff comes up,” Johnson said. ”I’m controlling what I can control,<a href=' http://www.broncoscheapstore.com/brendan-langley-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Brendan Langley Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Brendan Langley Jersey </strong></a>, I’ll handle it.”

who took over the defense after McVay’s offseason arrival. Johnson sounds confident in his ability to fit anywhere in the Rams’ defense.,<a href='http://www.broncoscheapstore.com/chad-kelly-jersey-cheap ' title='Chad Kelly Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Chad Kelly Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.cardinalscheapstore.com/chandler-jones-jersey-cheap' title='Chandler Jones Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Chandler Jones Jersey</strong></a>,Johnson also appears to be getting along well with Phillips

”I’m a complete corner,” Johnson said. ”I can play man. I can play off. I can play zone. I can play waterboy. I can play anything y’all want me to play, man. This is my sixth year. I’m not a rookie.”

Although his new coaching staff has plenty of work to do in the next two weeks, McVay didn’t seem overly worried about Johnson’s absence or the departures of Robinson and Barwin, who are both candidates for important roles in the fall.

”As a coach,” McVay said. ”But you also understand the framework of the way this stuff is set up in the offseason program. I think the guys have done a good job of understanding … and we’re flexible with these guys as well. All things being equal, you’re always going to want the guys here, you would love to say, `Let’s get everybody here so that we can get all the work that you want, and you guys aren’t missing out on any information that’s given out.”’

McVay also sounds fairly confident he’ll have a full roster when the Rams begin their mandatory minicamp next week.

”You always hope for it, you’re kind of ready to take on new challenges,” McVay said. ”Each day, and things come up. That’s our hope, that’s our expectation,<a href='http://www.broncoscheapstore.com/carlos-henderson-jersey-cheap ' title='Carlos Henderson Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Carlos Henderson Jersey </strong></a>,<a href='http://www.broncoscheapstore.com/jake-butt-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jake Butt Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jake Butt Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.cardinalscheapstore.com/chandler-jones-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Chandler Jones Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Chandler Jones Jersey</strong></a>,http://www.broncoscheapstore.com/brendan-langley-jersey-cheap, and I guess we’ll find out next week.”

Colin Kaepernick is back to square one

There’s been no material change in the Colin Kaepernick story for months now,<a href=' http://www.ramscheapstore.com/tyler-higbee-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Tyler Higbee Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Tyler Higbee Jersey</strong></a>, but Austin Davis still feels like some sort of breaking point.

After all,<a href='http://www.ramscheapstore.com/pharoh-cooper-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Pharoh Cooper Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Pharoh Cooper Jersey</strong></a>, the Seattle Seahawks appeared to offer Kaepernick his best hope for ending his job search. An open-minded organization in an open-minded part of the country with an offense engineered around a mobile quarterback,<a href='http://www.ramscheapstore.com/rob-havenstein-jersey-cheap ' title='Rob Havenstein Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Rob Havenstein Jersey</strong></a>,” Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said.,<a href=' http://www.ramscheapstore.com/sean-mannion-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Sean Mannion Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Sean Mannion Jersey</strong></a>, Seattle kicked the tires on Kaepernick late last month and said they liked what they saw. “He’s a starter in this league

And then, the Seahawks signed Austin Davis. Which means ..., when it came time to pick a veteran backup for Russell Wilson

Well, at this point it means something big is going to have to change in order for Kaepernick to find a job. An injury or some other unforeseen calamity will have to upset some team’s quarterback situation enough to change its mind on giving him a chance -- even to be a backup.

It’s June now. Teams are finishing OTAs and heading into mandatory minicamps, and the only team that’s even had Kaepernick in its building gave a roster spot to Austin Davis instead., which represent the final activity before training camps begin in July. That means offseason rosters are basically set

New York Giants owner John Mara last week gave voice to the presumed (but previously unspoken) reason many teams have shied away, Mara made the point that teams are aware of the emotions that come attached to Kaepernick. It was easy to infer from his remarks that -- fairly or unfairly -- any team signing Kaepernick would risk angering a segment of its fan base. And teams don’t like to do that., when he told The MMQB he’d never received more or angrier messages from fans than he did at the height of the Kaepernick national anthem controversy last season. While not saying that’s why he didn’t sign Kaepernick

Which is why at least 31 quarterbacks whose 55.2 Total QBR in 2016 was lower than that of Kaepernick -- who ranked an uninspiring 23rd in that category -- are on NFL rosters right now and he’s not. That number doesn’t count Austin Davis,<a href='http://www.ramscheapstore.com/tyler-higbee-jersey-cheap ' title='Tyler Higbee Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Tyler Higbee Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.ramscheapstore.com/pharoh-cooper-jersey-cheap ' title='Pharoh Cooper Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Pharoh Cooper Jersey</strong></a>, who in five NFL seasons has 13 touchdown passes and 12 interceptions but who didn’t take a snap in 2016. It does count the likes of Mark Sanchez,<a href=' http://www.ramscheapstore.com/rob-havenstein-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Rob Havenstein Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Rob Havenstein Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.ramscheapstore.com/jamon-brown-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jamon Brown Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jamon Brown Jersey</strong></a>, who ranked a couple of spots ahead of Kaepernick on that list but also lost his job with the 49ers to Kaepernick midseason.,<a href='http://www.ramscheapstore.com/jamon-brown-jersey-cheap' title='Jamon Brown Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jamon Brown Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.ramscheapstore.com/sean-mannion-jersey-cheap' title='Sean Mannion Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Sean Mannion Jersey</strong></a>, Nick Foles, Geno Smith and Ryan Fitzpatrick. It does not count Blaine Gabbert

Carroll’s assertion that Kaepernick is a starter in the NFL might not hold up under an honest assessment of the once-brilliant quarterback’s performance over the past couple of seasons, but it’s undeniable that Kaepernick has more to offer than many of the quarterbacks who will report to NFL training camps next month. And while his protest of the anthem was peaceful and harmless and even respectful once he amended it upon consultation with members of the military, it was something the league hadn’t seen before, and it stirred fan anger to a unique extent that alarms NFL team owners.In a league that grants high-profile second chances to drunk drivers, Kaepernick can’t get one. And it’s clear that his anthem protest -- alarming in unprecedented ways to team owners -- is a major reason. At this point, domestic abusers and performance-enhancing drug users, something big and out of his control is going to have to happen for that to change.

DENNIS PITTA FEELS VERY DIFFERENT THAN HE DID A YEAR AGO

At about this time last year, tight end Dennis Pitta met with the media at the start of Ravens Organized Team Activities.

He answered seven questions. Six were about his hip,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/nate-orchard-jersey-cheap ' title='Nate Orchard Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Nate Orchard Jersey</strong></a>, what his family thought of his decision to continue, ranging from how he was feeling physically and mentally upon returning to the field,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/xavier-cooper-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Xavier Cooper Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Xavier Cooper Jersey</strong></a>, to whether he was thinking about the possibility of another fracture.

The final question may have been the most interesting. It was about whether Pitta had to lower his expectations for the level he could play at.

“No, my expectations haven’t changed from four years ago,<a href='http://www.cowboyscheapstore.com/jaylon-smith-jersey-cheap' title='Jaylon Smith Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jaylon Smith Jersey</strong></a>, to now, to two years ago,” Pitta said then. “My level of expectation is extremely high going into this year.”

Pitta made good on his word. After sitting out essentially two years, he turned in career highs in receptions (86 – most among NFL tight ends), receiving yards (729) and scored two touchdowns. He played in all 16 games and received a team-high 119 targets.

Now, one year later, Pitta’s in a wildly different situation.

During Thursday's practice open to the media, nobody held their breath watching Pitta play. He hauled in a leaping catch without a hitch.

Pitta’s standing on the Ravens’ roster was even a bit of an unknown last year. Baltimore signed veteran Benjamin Watson and had young,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/nate-orchard-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Nate Orchard Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Nate Orchard Jersey </strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/duke-johnson-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Duke Johnson Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Duke Johnson Jersey</strong></a>, Crockett Gillmore,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/duke-johnson-jersey-cheap ' title='Duke Johnson Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Duke Johnson Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/xavier-cooper-jersey-cheap' title='Xavier Cooper Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Xavier Cooper Jersey</strong></a>, promising players in Maxx Williams,<a href=' http://www.cowboyscheapstore.com/jaylon-smith-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jaylon Smith Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jaylon Smith Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.cowboyscheapstore.com/maliek-collins-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Maliek Collins Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Maliek Collins Jersey </strong></a>, Nick Boyle and Darren Waller.

Watson,<a href='http://www.cowboyscheapstore.com/maliek-collins-jersey-cheap' title='Maliek Collins Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Maliek Collins Jersey</strong></a>, Williams and Gillmore all suffered injuries. Waller and Boyle were suspended for four and 10 games, respectively. That left Pitta carrying the load on what originally looked like a stacked tight end corps.

The Ravens have all those tight ends back this year in what again looks to be a very full room. Baltimore still kept Pitta, who will turn 32 in a month, though he took a pay cut for a second straight year.

Now with a full offseason of normal training, Steve Smith Sr., Pitta feels like he could be even better than last year. The Ravens could use him more as a red-zone target this season after last year’s leader in receiving touchdowns, retired. Pitta scored seven touchdowns in 2012 before his first hip injury.

Pitta also feels like having Offensive Coordinator Marty Mornhinweg running the unit at the start of the season will help the offense as a whole.

“Consistency at the offensive coordinator spot certainly helps,” Pitta said. “We have not had a lot of that over the years. I was one that was a little bit vocal last year in saying that we needed consistency. I’m happy that that is what we got, and that we can continue to build off of what we did last year.”

Broncos OTA Day 6 takeaways

Inside linebacker Brandon Marshall is ready for a big year. He's set his sights on career highs across the board. He changed up his training regimen after a frustrating 2016 season in which he struggled with a hamstring problem.

All that has translated to the practice field,<a href=' http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/jake-elliott-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jake Elliott Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jake Elliott Jersey </strong></a>, where he's showing signs of dominance and leadership as one of the ringleaders of the Broncos' swarming unit.

"I'm just getting my feet and my legs up under me. It feels good,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/myles-garrett-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Myles Garrett Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Myles Garrett Jersey</strong></a>," Marshall said. "I did a lot of hard training this offseason. I came back and continued that, and I feel like I'm playing really well."

He showed one example of his playmaking ability on the first play of the initial team period of Thursday's practice. With the offense in the red zone, Marshall raced toward the back left corner of the end zone and broke up a potential touchdown pass to A.J. Derby.

Later in practice, but Marshall kept chasing and poked the ball out, Marshall's persistence and hustle led to a forced fumble. Demaryius Thomas had caught a pass from Trevor Siemian and headed downfield, giving the defense another takeaway.

Here's what else stood out from Thursday's organized team activity:

... Safety Justin Simmons intercepted a pass for a second consecutive day, stepping in front of a pass during a red-zone drill to prevent a touchdown.

... Trevor Siemian continued to find Cody Latimer. The two connected multiple times Thursday after doing so Wednesday, including a touchdown pass during a team red-zone period.

... Paxton Lynch saw first-team work Thursday,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/jabrill-peppers-jersey-cheap' title='Jabrill Peppers Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jabrill Peppers Jersey</strong></a>, as Head Coach Vance Joseph continued to alternate Lynch and Siemian with the first team. Lynch showed poise under pressure operating Denver’s top unit.

During one team period, finding Emmanuel Sanders, the No. 1 defense dialed up a heavy pass rush on three consecutive plays. Lynch stood in the pocket and got rid of the football for completions on each of those plays,<a href='http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/jake-elliott-jersey-cheap' title='Jake Elliott Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jake Elliott Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/myles-garrett-jersey-cheap ' title='Myles Garrett Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Myles Garrett Jersey</strong></a>, Devontae Booker and finally Thomas as pass rushers bore down on him.

.... Rookie De'Angelo Henderson ripped off a touchdown run during the red-zone period,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/jabrill-peppers-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jabrill Pepperss Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jabrill Pepperss Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/deshone-kizer-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic DeShone Kizer Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic DeShone Kizer Jersey</strong></a>, capitalizing off solid blocks from rookie Elijah Wilkinson and 2016 practice-squad tackle Justin Murray to get to the left side. Henderson then showed good straight-line speed, accelerating forward past defenders for the score.

... Cornerback Lorenzo Doss made an athletic play to prevent a touchdown, lunging to break up what would have been a 35-yard score from Lynch to tight end Jeff Heuermanduring a team period.

... Rookie wide receiver Carlos Henderson elicited "oohs" from his teammates after making a sharp change of direction that sent a defender sliding to the ground following a reception from Siemian. Henderson was running from right to left when he caught the ball, and then stopped and cut back to his right, leaving a sprawling defender and plenty of open field to proceed with the football.

... Outside linebacker Von Miller isn't just about sacks when he rushes the passer, as he showed when he leapt and broke up a pass in the backfield during a team period late in practice.

... Late in practice, the offense and defense faced off in a "move-the-ball" scenario,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/david-njoku-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic David Njoku Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic David Njoku Jersey</strong></a>, with the offense starting at its 25-yard line and facing a two-point deficit. The No. 1 and No. 2 defense emerged victorious against the first- and second-team offenses,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/david-njoku-jersey-cheap' title='David Njoku Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>David Njoku Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/deshone-kizer-jersey-cheap' title='DeShone Kizer Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>DeShone Kizer Jersey </strong></a>, respectively, using pressure and tight coverage to prevent the offense from gaining a first down on either series.

Denver Broncos: Chris Harris Jr. On Path to be Team’s Best Corner

Champ Bailey and many past Denver Broncos corner backs rank as some of the all-time greats. For current defensive back Chris Harris Jr., Harris Jr. is halfway from breaking Bailey’s passes defended record in a Broncos uniform. Bailey registered 123 passes defended in his stint with the Broncos. Harris sits at 66.,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/deshone-kizer-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic DeShone Kizer Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic DeShone Kizer Jersey</strong></a>, he is on a path as the greatest. In a short amount of time (five years)

Harris Jr’s path to the NFL is a test of adversity. Not invited to the NFL Combine or a pro day Harris Jr. played with a chip on his shoulder. In the 2011 NFL Draft,Furthermore, Harris Jr. went undrafted. However, once he became a Denver Bronco, the rest is history. He is currently a three-time Pro Bowler, Super Bowl Champion and first-time All-Pro.

Notorious as a shutdown corner, the tackling between Harris Jr. and Bailey is eerily similar. Harris Jr. played with Bailey from 2011-2013..,<a href='http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/jake-elliott-jersey-cheap' title='Jake Elliott Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jake Elliott Jersey</strong></a>, Bailey is a playmaking extraordinaire. There are two similarities between Harris and Bailey. Harris is not afraid to mix it up and get dirty with the big boys. Bailey played with same attitude. Second

A mark for a terrific corner is soaking up as much knowledge from an all-time great. Bailey became a mentor for Harris Jr.

“That’s one thing,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/jabrill-peppers-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jabrill Pepperss Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jabrill Pepperss Jersey</strong></a>,” Harris Jr. on Bailey’s mentorship when Harris Jr. learned Bailey’s induction into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in April.,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/david-njoku-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic David Njoku Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic David Njoku Jersey</strong></a>, you don’t see a lot of the older guys like him becoming friends with the younger cats. Just to be able to have that relationship means a lot

Harris Jr. reflected on time with Bailey after future Hall of Famer was inducted to the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in April

“When I played with Champ, he was at the end of his career,” Harris Jr. said of his time with Bailey. “I didn’t get to see the prime, he was just really focusing on making sure those fundamentals were tight. He could still run and do everything. He focused more on his fundamentals the older he got.”, super prime Champ up close. At the time

Understanding the techniques from playing with Champ is something Harris Jr. will forever remember.

“Techniques. Just different techniques on-the-field-wise, fundamental-wise,<a href=' http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/jake-elliott-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jake Elliott Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jake Elliott Jersey </strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/myles-garrett-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Myles Garrett Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Myles Garrett Jersey</strong></a>,” Harris Jr. described what he learned from Bailey in April. “I play square through my fundamentals. It’s definitely something that I kept from Champ for sure.”,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/myles-garrett-jersey-cheap' title='Myles Garrett Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Myles Garrett Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/jabrill-peppers-jersey-cheap ' title='Jabrill Peppers Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jabrill Peppers Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/david-njoku-jersey-cheap' title='David Njoku Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>David Njoku Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/deshone-kizer-jersey-cheap' title='DeShone Kizer Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>DeShone Kizer Jersey </strong></a>, how he played square. I’m like an old school corner with techniques

Versatility has always been a part of Harris Jr’s game and is something that potentially separates him from the pack of great defensive backs to wear Broncos orange. Harris Jr. can play on the outside and inside as a corner back. The adaptability to play wherever coaches want makes Harris Jr. a coaching dream. Harris Jr. is one corner back never beaten.

AND HOW HE'S ADJUSTING TO HIS NEW ROLE,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/larry-ogunjobi-jersey-cheap' title='Larry Ogunjobi Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Larry Ogunjobi Jersey</strong></a>,WHY LARDARIUS WEBB RETURNED

The veteran safety loves playing in Baltimore and takes his job as a leader seriously. He wants to continue to pass on the Ravens tradition to the team’s younger players and contend for a Super Bowl.

Lardarius Webb wasn’t shocked when the Ravens released him in early March. He knew it was around the time when tough decisions like that are made league-wide.

“That’s business. That’s football, and figured it was time to start something new.”,” he said. “I had been here my whole career

As much as getting a taste of free agency for the first time was a bit exciting, however., Webb wasn’t exactly excited about venturing out

He loves playing for the Ravens, small-statured cornerback in the third round in 2009 and awarded him with a big multi-year extension after the 2011 season. His entire family loves the Ravens., who originally drafted the small-school

A month after the release, after some other teams expressed interest, and he jumped on it. He was back home., the Ravens offered Webb a three-year contract to return

So why did Webb come back?

Webb said there were multiple factors that led to him re-signing with the Ravens.

Some of it is personal. He has three kids, including two kids under 2 years old, he’s laid down roots., that he didn’t want to move. After eight years in Baltimore

Much of it is professional. At the top of that list is winning a championship,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/jabrill-peppers-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Jabrill Pepperss Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jabrill Pepperss Jersey</strong></a>, Head Coach John Harbaugh and a title-caliber defense they crafted this offseason.,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/david-njoku-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic David Njoku Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic David Njoku Jersey</strong></a>, which Webb feels the Ravens are poised to do with General Manager Ozzie Newsome

he’s started every game he’s played in except three.,What’s different is the role Webb will play in that hunt. He’s been a starter pretty much throughout his eight-year career (he even started four games as a rookie). Since 2011

Last year,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/deshone-kizer-jersey-cheap' title='DeShone Kizer Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>DeShone Kizer Jersey </strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/howard-wilson-jersey-cheap' title='Howard Wilson Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Howard Wilson Jersey</strong></a>, Webb went from the starting cornerback opposite Jimmy Smith to the starting safety next to Eric Weddle. Webb handled the transition well, one sack and one interception., making 73 tackles

But when the Ravens had the chance in free agency to grab one of the top, they pounced. Now Jefferson and Weddle are entrenched as the starters., young safeties in the game in Tony Jefferson

everybody is hoping for good health,Webb will be their top backup, as well as offer support at cornerback in case of injuries. He’s about as good and versatile veteran depth as a team could have in its secondary. Of course, it wouldn’t be surprising if Webb’s name is called to play a prominent role., but considering that injuries are common among defensive backs

but he didn’t play in the game after tearing his ACL midway through the season. He still thirsts to experience that in purple and black.,Webb has a Super Bowl XLVII ring

“We all have that same goal, they haven’t won Super Bowls. I haven’t played in a Super Bowl. The way we win a Super Bowl is to have the best players.”,” Webb said. “With T.J. coming here and Weddle coming here

Another reason why Webb wanted to come back is to continue his role as a defensive leader.

and took young players such as Tavon Young and Maurice Canady under his wing last year – just like safety Ed Reed mentored Webb when he was a young pup. Now Webb is looking forward to working with rookie first-round cornerback Marlon Humphrey and sixth-round safety Chuck Clark.,He has long been a respected and trusted voice in the locker room

and he said he would have signed elsewhere had the Ravens not come with an offer.,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/jabrill-peppers-jersey-cheap' title='Jabrill Peppers Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jabrill Peppers Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.brownscheapstore.com/david-njoku-jersey-cheap' title='David Njoku Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>David Njoku Jersey</strong></a>,Webb said the thought of retiring to spend more time with his family crossed his mind after the Ravens released him. But it was a fleeting thought

“I still got it,” Webb said with a chuckle. “Don’t let ‘em fool you.”,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/deshone-kizer-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic DeShone Kizer Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic DeShone Kizer Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/larry-ogunjobi-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Larry Ogunjobi Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Larry Ogunjobi Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.brownscheapstore.com/howard-wilson-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Howard Wilson Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Howard Wilson Jersey </strong></a>, now

Why I’m a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs

Welcome to the refreshed Arrowhead Pride! To celebrate the new look and feel of our sports communities,<a href=' http://www.jaguarscheapstore.com/dante-fowler-jr-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Dante Fowler Jr Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Dante Fowler Jr Jersey</strong></a>, we're sharing stories of how and why we became fans of our favorite teams. If you'd like to share your story,<a href=' http://www.jaguarscheapstore.com/t.j.-yeldon-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic T.J. Yeldon Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic T.J. Yeldon Jersey</strong></a>, head over to the FanPosts to write your own post. Each FanPost will be entered into a drawing to win a $500 Fanatics gift card [contest rules]. We're collecting all of the stories here and featuring the best ones across our network as well. Come Fan With Us!

SB Nation’s blogs are getting a refreshed look today and as part of that we’re going back to our roots and writing about why we are fans of our teams. For me,<a href='http://www.jaguarscheapstore.com/a.-j.-cann-jersey-cheap' title='A. J. Cann Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>A. J. Cann Jersey</strong></a>, that’s the Chiefs. Why am I a fan? Like many of you, I had no choice. I don’t mean that in a bad way but that when you grow up in Kansas City, especially in the 1990s, you’re a Chiefs fan.

I was born in the 1980s and grew up watching Marty Schottenheimer’s Chiefs in the 1990s. That is the story of so many Chiefs fans today. For my peers,<a href='http://www.jaguarscheapstore.com/dante-fowler-jr-jersey-cheap' title='Dante Fowler Jr Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Dante Fowler Jr Jersey </strong></a>,<a href='http://www.jaguarscheapstore.com/t.j.-yeldon-jersey-cheap' title='T.J. Yeldon Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>T.J. Yeldon Jersey</strong></a>, the talk of why you’re a fan often starts with Marty. He was on a first name basis with the entire city. Still today I can say Marty around Chiefs fans and everyone knows who I’m talking about. There is just one Marty.

The Chiefs in the 1990s were a big deal. It was very easy to become a fan of them during that time period. They had been so bad for so long that the city was thirsty for a winner. They had just drafted a future Hall of Famer in Derrick Thomas and paired him with another star in Neil Smith. There were so many personalities on those 1990s teams.

My family - Chris,<a href=' http://www.jaguarscheapstore.com/a.-j.-cann-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic A. J. Cann Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic A. J. Cann Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.chiefscheapstore.com/chris-jones-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Chris Jones Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Chris Jones Jersey</strong></a>, the Old Man,<a href='http://www.chiefscheapstore.com/chris-jones-jersey-cheap' title='Chris Jones Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Chris Jones Jersey</strong></a>, me (and sometimes my Mom) - would watch the games every Sunday. I remember an uncle of mine renting a big screen TV for Chiefs season one year in the early 1990s (which seems insane today).

The Chiefs also brought me disappointment. Plenty of it. I can remember like it was yesterday when they lost the AFC Championship game to the Bills. It was my first painful sports heartbreak. It would only hurt more and more as the Chiefs continued to lose playoff games after that. In fact,<a href=' http://www.chiefscheapstore.com/keivarae-russell-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic KeiVarae Russell Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic KeiVarae Russell Jersey</strong></a>, the Chiefs haven’t made it that far since then.

This could be the year though. It’s hard not to be optimistic with this team this year. It’s hard not to notice the similarities to the 1990s. It’s cool knowing that 20 years from now there are going to be some kids out there who grew up Chiefs fans because of Big Red.

Barring a situation where Hooker has to miss more time than expected -- he’ll be out until the start of training camp -- he should be in line to start next season. The Colts want him using his speed to roam the field chasing the ball down.

"I think that what we can expect mentally from Malik is to dive in with both feet and go full speed with the install and see how far he can get down the road in terms of film study and becoming a better pro,<a href='http://www.chiefscheapstore.com/keivarae-russell-jersey-cheap' title='KeiVarae Russell Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>KeiVarae Russell Jersey</strong></a>," Monachino said. "I think that once he does start to go out and compete on the field I think that we can expect great things.”

Anyway, just as we often said:" everything is possible."

Bengals to find out what they have in QB Jeff Driskel

and while the bulk of what will eventually be the 53-man roster in September is largely known there are always opportunities for new faces to earn their way onto the team or the practice squad. ,The Cincinnati Bengals’ first organized team activity begins Tuesday on the practice fields adjacent to Paul Brown Stadium

Marcus Hardison and Brandon Thompson look like coming off season-ending injuries? ,But even for those who spent the last year in the Bengals locker room, William Jackson III, there are still some mysteries. Can Cedric Ogbuehi and Jake Fisher cement themselves as starting tackles? Can Andre Smith change positions nearly a decade into his career? What will Andrew Billings

the 49ers waived Driskel on Sept. 3. Cincinnati swooped in to claim him the next day. Seven days later he was in New York as the Bengals opened their season against the Jets as the third quarterback behind Andy Dalton and AJ McCarron. ,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/jonathan-bullard-jersey-cheap' title='Jonathan Bullard Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Jonathan Bullard Jersey </strong></a>,Despite rave reviews from former San Francisco 49ers head coach Chip Kelly over the performance of his 2016 sixth-round pick last summer

and was active just once – as an emergency wide receiver against the Cleveland Browns in December.,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/eddie-goldman-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Eddie Goldman Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Eddie Goldman Jersey</strong></a>,Driskel didn’t appear in a game

the Bengals don’t know much about the 24-year-old as a quarterback.,<a href=' http://www.bearscheapstores.com/hroniss-grasu-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Hroniss Grasu Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Hroniss Grasu Jersey</strong></a>,But really

The voluntary workout sessions over the last month afforded them their first real time watching him run Ken Zampese’s offense and throw to moving targets.

“When you bring him in on the final cut,<a href=' http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/william-jackson-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic William Jackson Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic William Jackson Jersey</strong></a>, way more than he threw to any moving targets this whole year. Which sounds silly but that’s just (the way it is).”, when you claim him, getting comfortable in an NFL pocket in practice. You’re still not getting hit. So it will be in the spring time where we’ll get to see him really run our offense. He probably threw to people,” Bengals quarterback coach Bill Lazor said. “I saw him improve with his pocket presence, there really wasn’t a lot of opportunity to play in our offense, targets who were standing still with me in drill work

Bengals players grapple with uncertain futures

The only receivers running routes Driskel threw to were when some were brought in for tryouts late in the season – so the bulk of his work came before games. It was routine: Driskel, zipping spirals. , Lazor and a pass catcher lining up on one-half of the field. Driskel would drop back and drop back

“Coach Lazor, but he gave me some coaching points.”, he put a lot of time into me mechanically, which is kind of odd to say,” Driskel said. “I don’t get a lot of throws or anything during practice but before the games,<a href=' http://www.bearscheapstores.com/jonathan-bullard-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Jonathan Bullard Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jonathan Bullard Jersey </strong></a>,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/kevin-white-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Kevin White Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Kevin White Jersey</strong></a>, we would go out and get a bunch of throws in. I think I got a lot better just in pregame warmups

Driskel must have been showing improvement for the Bengals to carry him on the 53-man roster the entire season – especially once injuries began to mount and the playoffs began to slip away.

“That’s something that the Bengals haven’t done a ton of in the past,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/kevin-white-jersey-cheap' title='Kevin White Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Kevin White Jersey </strong></a>,” Driskel said. “Me being on that 53 for all 16 weeks really shows their commitment to me and I just want to prove my worth next year and show that was the right move for them to make.”,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/eddie-goldman-jersey-cheap' title='Eddie Goldman Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Eddie Goldman Jersey</strong></a>, and it just shows that they like me

2 inches) and posted a 32-inch vertical.,<a href='http://www.bearscheapstores.com/hroniss-grasu-jersey-cheap' title='Hroniss Grasu Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Hroniss Grasu Jersey</strong></a>,In his brief time in San Francisco,<a href='http://www.bengalscheapstore.com/william-jackson-jersey-cheap' title='William Jackson Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>William Jackson Jersey </strong></a>, Kelly liked the fact that Driskel operated in multiple offenses in college (under four different offensive coordinators) and can be considered an athletic marvel for his position. At the 2016 combine, led his position group in the broad jump (10 feet, Driskel ran the fastest of any QB (4.56 seconds)

their former special teams coach talked about maybe using Driskel as a personal protector on punts to get him on the field.,In 49ers camp

going 15-for-31 for 132 yards and two interceptions.,But most of the pre-draft evaluations of Driskel said he had to work on his accuracy (59.4 percent in four years at Florida) and his deep ball. And, the fundamentals of the position are just different in the NFL. He did get a full camp in San Francisco and played in four preseason games, like most college quarterbacks

training camp and the preseason will be important for Driskel to prove he did develop.,Without being able to practice fully with the Bengals last year, mini-camp, the organized training activities

Rams claim center Austin Blythe off waivers from Indianapolis Colts

he Rams added depth at center Tuesday when they claimed Austin Blythe off waivers from the Indianapolis Colts.

played at Iowa and was a seventh-round draft pick by the Colts in 2016. He played in eight games last season,Blythe, 24, starting one.

The Rams also signed defensive back Dominique Hatfield, an undrafted free agent from Utah who participated as a tryout player at last week’s rookie camp. The Rams waived linebacker Adefolarin Orimolade, an undrafted linebacker from Dartmouth.

Claiming the 6-foot-2, 291-pound Blythe is the latest move the Rams have made at center after last season’s offensive line struggles.

who had played for Rams offensive line coach Aaron Kromer with the Buffalo Bills,In March, the Rams released two-year starting center Tim Barnes. They pursued restricted free agent Ryan Groy,<a href='http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/christian-mccaffrey-jersey-cheap' title='Christian McCaffrey Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Christian McCaffrey Jersey</strong></a>, but the Bills matched the Rams offer sheet and retained Groy.

$900,<a href='http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/curtis-samuel-jersey-cheap' title='Curtis Samuel Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Curtis Samuel Jersey</strong></a>,In April,<a href=' http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/daeshon-hall-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Daeshon Hall Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Daeshon Hall Jersey</strong></a>,000 contract, the Rams signed veteran John Sullivan to a one-year,<a href='http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/harrison-butker-jersey-cheap' title='Harrison Butker Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Harrison Butker Jersey</strong></a>, according to spotrac.com. Sullivan played for the Minnesota Vikings for seven seasons before suffering back injuries that forced him to sit out the 2015 season. He played last season as a reserve for the Washington Redskins in new Rams coach Sean McVay’s final season as offensive coordinator.

The center group now includes Sullivan, Blythe, third-year pro Demetrius Rhaney and undrafted free agent Jake Eldrenkamp.

Eldrenkamp, 6-5 and 297 pounds, played guard and tackle in college at Washington.

“He’s a guy that’s got good movement,” McVay said last week during the rookie camp. “He’s got some flexibility to be able to play on the interior line.”

McVay also said that guards were “cross-training” to play center.

” he said. “If something did happen to one of those centers,<a href=' http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/christian-mccaffrey-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Christian McCaffrey Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Christian McCaffrey Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/curtis-samuel-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Curtis Samuel Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Curtis Samuel Jersey</strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/taylor-moton-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Taylor Moton Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Taylor Moton Jersey</strong></a>,“Just because you’ve got to have the season in mind when you’ve got seven,<a href='http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/taylor-moton-jersey-cheap' title='Taylor Moton Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Taylor Moton Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/daeshon-hall-jersey-cheap' title='Daeshon Hall Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Daeshon Hall Jersey</strong></a>, typically it’s going to be guard, maybe eight linemen up [on game day],<a href=' http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/harrison-butker-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Harrison Butker Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Harrison Butker Jersey</strong></a>, unless you’re going to have one of those guys that’s your sixth or seventh lineman be exclusively a center.

“It’s important for those guards to be able to have some flexibility and be able to snap that football if some of those emergency situations dictate that.”

Texans hoping for 'exponential growth' from Will Fuller, Braxton Miller

The education of NFL rookie wide receivers involves plenty of trial, error and confusion.

It's a complicated position and there are a lot of adjustments to be made.

It's the growth and determination through those learning moments that coaches and executives look for.

In the case of Texans wide receivers Will Fuller and Braxton Miller, both displayed potential after being drafted by the AFC South champions last season.

With 4.28 speed in the 40-yard dash, Fuller emerged as a dangerous deep threat who was difficult to corral in the open field.

What held Fuller back from making more of a splash as a rookie after being drafted in the first round out of Notre Dame was a tendency to drop long throws and nagging knee and hamstring injuries.

Miller made a fairly smooth transition to slot wide receiver after being drafted in the third round. A shoulder injury eventually forced him onto injured reserve,A converted quarterback and former Big Ten Conference Offensive Player of the Year at Ohio State,<a href=' http://www.texanscheapstore.com/jaelen-strong-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Jaelen Strong Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Jaelen Strong Jersey</strong></a>, ending his season prematurely.

The Texans are hopeful that both players will make more of an impact as they head into their second NFL season. The Texans hold their first organized team activity this week.

" Texans general manager Rick Smith said. "There's a lot of learning. There's a lot of physical demands on that position. The expectation and the progression from a career,<a href='http://www.coltscheapstore.com/ryan-kelly-jersey-cheap ' title='Ryan Kelly Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Ryan Kelly Jersey</strong></a>,"'It's a difficult position to play in our league,<a href=' http://www.coltscheapstore.com/le_raven-clark-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Le'Raven Clark Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Le'Raven Clark Jersey</strong></a>, there's exponential growth expected from Year 1 to Year 2.

in a lot of respects, that's good. That next year is when you tend to see that biggest jump.", they know pro football a lot better,"And it's because, the rhythm of the season,<a href=' http://www.texanscheapstore.com/benardrick-mckinney-jersey-cheap Benardrick McKinney Jersey' title='Authentic Benardrick McKinney Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Benardrick McKinney Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.texanscheapstore.com/jaelen-strong-jersey-cheap' title='Jaelen Strong Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Jaelen Strong Jersey</strong></a>, the demands,<a href=' http://www.coltscheapstore.com/ryan-kelly-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Ryan Kelly Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Ryan Kelly Jersey </strong></a>,<a href=' http://www.coltscheapstore.com/t.j.-green-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic T.J. Green Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic T.J. Green Jersey</strong></a>, everything is just different. It's heightened. To the degree that a guy can come in and process that and play with some success as a rookie

The last time Fuller was in a game,<a href='http://www.coltscheapstore.com/t.j.-green-jersey-cheap' title='T.J. Green Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>T.J. Green Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.coltscheapstore.com/le_raven-clark-jersey-cheap' title='Le'Raven Clark Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Le'Raven Clark Jersey</strong></a>, an accurate pass from former Texans starting quarterback Brock Osweiler ricocheted off his forearm and cost them a potential 45-yard touchdown in a playoff loss to the New England Patriots.

"I got to make that play," Fuller said following the Texans' 34-16 AFC divisional-round playoff loss at Gillette Stadium. "It hit me in my hands. Brock threw a perfect pass. I got to make that play. Very tough. My team needed a play and I should've made that one. I just wasn't able to make the play."

Fuller caught just three passes for 16 yards in the AFC divisional-round loss to the Patriots despite being targeted six times.

It was a costly drop by Fuller, who finished his rookie season with 47 catches for 635 yards and two touchdowns.

Is a new contract really the last thing on Atlanta Falcons RB Devonta Freeman’s mind?

Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman mistakingly waded into some hot water during the week before the Super Bowl. We’ve addressed his comments and the comments of his agent ad nauseum, the man did nothing wrong, so I’ll spare you an in-depth analysis. At best, the comments he made and the comments his agent made were ill-timed and premature. Basically we’ve moved on., and after a lot of hard work, he’s just trying to secure his future. At worst

The AJC’s D. Orlando Ledbetter wrote up an interesting piece discussing Devonta’s offseason. He’s been busy, not worrying about contract negotiations or publicly lobbying for a raise. Instead, and spoiler alert: Devonta’s ready., he’s been putting on muscle and mentally processing the Super Bowl loss. OTA’s kick off in about 10 days

the blown blocking assignment heard ‘round the world:,Here’s what Devonta had to say about his critical misstep in Super Bowl 51

“Plays happen in a game,” Freeman said. “I just feel like you can’t dwell on it at this point. You just move on from it [...] I can watch film on it,<a href='http://www.billscheapstore.com/adolphus-washington-jersey-cheap Adolphus Washington Jersey' title='Authentic Adolphus Washington Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Adolphus Washington Jersey </strong></a>, good and bad,<a href='http://www.billscheapstore.com/cardale-jones-jersey-cheap ' title='Cardale Jones Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Cardale Jones Jersey </strong></a>, and if it’s a good play I can find something that I could have did better. That’s how you get over that stuff.“,<a href='http://www.billscheapstore.com/john-miller-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic John Miller Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic John Miller Jersey </strong></a>, and I can watch play-for-play in the Super Bowl,<a href='http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/vernon-butler-jersey-cheap' title='Authentic Vernon Butler Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Vernon Butler Jersey</strong></a>,” Freeman said. “I could watch each play probably about 10 times

Devonta made a concerted effort to put on some weight this offseason:,Meanwhile

Freeman said he’s added five pounds of muscle and wants to get bigger, faster and stronger. He’s stopped eating junk food and engaging in the late-night meals and snacks. “I’m just trying to eat more baked foods and stuff like that, who noticed that he has more energy.”,” said Freeman

As I read DOL’s piece, I need to get paid!” Because in truth we know he’s likely extremely concerned about it, I was struck by how little Devonta ostensibly cares about the contract situation now. He’s focused on getting bigger and getting over the Super Bowl loss. I’m sure he actually wants to say, “somebody better pay me, and that includes your acumen in contract negotiations., as he should be. NFL careers are short-lived, particularly when you’re a running back. It’s important to be smart about money from the outset

Really Devonta is playing his best hand now. He’s going about his business,<a href='http://www.billscheapstore.com/cardale-jones-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Cardale Jones Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Cardale Jones Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.billscheapstore.com/ronald-darby-jersey-cheap ' title='Authentic Ronald Darby Jersey ' target='_blank'><strong>Authentic Ronald Darby Jersey </strong></a>, which will eventually be good for his pocket book.,<a href='http://www.billscheapstore.com/ronald-darby-jersey-cheap ' title='Ronald Darby Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Ronald Darby Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.billscheapstore.com/john-miller-jersey-cheap ' title='John Miller Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>John Miller Jersey</strong></a>,<a href='http://www.pantherscheapstore.com/vernon-butler-jersey-cheap' title='Vernon Butler Jersey' target='_blank'><strong>Vernon Butler Jersey</strong></a>, and that’s good for business

Your thoughts?

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