Eastman's NFL Overview (Part One)
by Allen Eastman - 07/24/2007
NFL camps start this week. Jobs will be won and lost throughout two-a-days, cut downs and exhibition games. As a capper, you must keep track of all the ins and outs for each team!! I for one spend four hours a day writing notes. This week I will show some key changes and key issues on the AFC teams. Check back next week for more AFC teams and the following week for NFC teams.
BALTIMORE
The Ravens made a major change at quarterback, bringing in veteran Steve McNair. This year It's running back Willis McGahee coming from Buffalo to replace Jamal Lewis. Can McGahee Help? Ray Lewis, 32, isn't getting any younger.
BUFFALO
First rounder Marshawn Lynch is being asked to replace Willis McGahee as the primary rusher. QB Losman has the job to himself and is being counted on to be a leader on this young squad.
CINCINNATI
Top draft pick, CB Leon Hall, is expected to play a big role in the secondary. Off field behavior is still an issue. Hall is being counted on to help the league's worst pass defense.
CLEVELAND
Got a good pick on draft day. Picking up Joe Thomas with the third pick, then trading up to get QB Brady Quinn in the first round. How fast can the rookies, Thomas Quinn and the second round pick Eric Wright, make significant contributions?
DENVER
Travis Henry figures to put up better numbers than predecessor Tatum Bell. An overhauled line could vault the defense to elite status. They have suffered a tragic off-season with the deaths of CB Darrent Williams and RB Damien Nash. The damage to the team's psyche remains to be seen.
HOUSTON
Make over in Houston, Atlanta backup QB Matt Schaub will be replacing David Carr. Veteran Ahman Green from Green Bay comes in to help at running back. First round pick Mario Williams will help a young defensive line.
INDIANAPOLIS
Key starters will be hard to replace. Rookie Joseph Addai needs a good start. The team needs often-injured safety Bob Sanders to stay on the field.
JACKSONVILLE
Not many changes!!! They release safety Donovin Darius and replace him with first round pick Reggie Nelson. Byron Leftwich entering the final year of his contract.
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Best of Luck. Allen Eastman.