May 21, 2013

The Best Browns Since 1999 – Cornerbacks

February 21, 2012 by 5 Comments

The Browns have struggled mostly to find top of the line starters at the cornerback position.  There’s a reason that Tom Heckert drafted Joe Haden and traded for Sheldon Brown when he arrived in Cleveland.  And for as much complaining as some fans do about Sheldon Brown, he has brought a lot to the table for the Browns in coverage.  It seems that sometimes corners do get beaten, but that just isn’t acceptable for the guy who gets thrown at opposite Joe Haden, I guess.  Anyway, on with the list. [Read more...]

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Eric Wright’s Forgettable Season is Finished

December 21, 2010 by 17 Comments

Eric Wright was supposed to be a key part of the Browns’ future in the defensive secondary.  He was supposed to have a bit of a chip on his shoulder and thrive off the competition with Joe Haden, Sheldon Brown and Brandon McDonald.  After winning the starting job opposite Brown and waving goodbye to B-Mac, it should have been all downhill as in “easy.”  Instead it was downhill as in headed to the bottom.   As of yesterday, due to a knee injury Eric Wright’s season is officially done.

It couldn’t possibly come at a worse time for Wright.  He flirted with Browns fans in the off-season referring to himself half-jokingly as “pay da man 2″ with a playful nod to Josh Cribbs and Wright’s own desire to make bigtime NFL dollars.  Wright is in the final year of his rookie deal, and this is the contract where NFL players look to make the richest of their careers.  All was going just fine until Wright met Anquan Boldin and Joe Flacco in the third week of this season. [Read more...]

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Eric Wright Needs to Shake it Off

September 27, 2010 by 37 Comments

For a lot of people, the arrogance and brashness of defensive backs is a turn off.  I don’t generally like that kind of swagger in people, but I am willing to accept that it might be a necessary attribute for the job of NFL cornerback.  It really makes you look stupid on days when you get torn up by a wide receiver.  Then again, at least Eric Wright didn’t pull up lame with a “hamstring injury” as Anquan Boldin waltzed into the end zone, right?  For all the brashness and arrogance talking about his “Pro Bowl Talent” Eric Wright knew that he had a bad game yesterday and he owned it.  When he was talking to Mary Kay Cabot yesterday he was quite honest and frank.  He admitted that he had a horrible day, he didn’t play up to his ability and that he let his team down.

There is no sense in harping on it (or tweeting pictures of his failures at him) at this point.  Everyone knows what happened including Wright.  Now, he must pay attention to that old adage about having a short memory.  He needs to forget about it because Ochocinco and T.O. are coming next week.  If he doesn’t the results could be disastrous like they have been for Brandon McDonald. [Read more...]

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McDonald tweets of “new journey” and LeBron checks out Wadsworth game

September 4, 2010 by 6 Comments

Around 10:30 this morning Brandon McDonald infered that he was cut when he posted the following on his twitter account ( @bmcdonald22 ):

“The new journey begins…. Thanks to all.. Peace and many many many blessings to all..ITS TRU”

Since then he’s replied to questions by saying that “new journey” does in fact mean “new team” and “yeh” he has been cut.  An hour ago he thanked people for their support and also notified ”Team B-Mac” that it is now time to load those cardboard boxes into the trunk and leave, when he added:

“Thanks to everyone fa da best wishes tweets.. I enjoyed my time here but all mus one day come to and end.. ITS TRU #teambmac #letsgo”

I cannot confirm who the active members of Team B-Mac are, however it does appear official that Mr. Lockdown will be locked out of Berea moving forward.  [Read more...]

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Browns vs. Packers – What We’re Watching For…

August 13, 2010 by 8 Comments

We’re finally about to see some “football”. And, while it’s not quite time to get into my “Browns Will Win If…” starting blocks for the year, it’s still a good chance to think about what we’d like to see from the Browns this weekend in their first live action of any kind against another team.

brownspackers

Where to set our expectations? First and foremost, we shouldn’t expect to see many of the “starters” much past the first few series, if even that long. So, other than reading into who’s getting action with the 1’s tomorrow night, there won’t be a ton of evaluation for the starters. That said, we do get our first look at Jake Delhomme as our starting quarterback, and our first look at the new-look (minus Eric Wright and D’Qwell Jackson) defense. So, what are we at WFNY looking for tomorrow night?

What We’re Watching For: [Read more...]

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Eric Mangini Will Tolerate Players Using Twitter…For Now

August 10, 2010 by 9 Comments

One of the more unorthodox topics to stem from this weekend’s Brown and White scrimmage is the team’s use of Twitter.  Timely, given WFNY’s recent athlete account tournament, but the number of Browns players using the social media medium continues to grow by leaps and bounds – something that could inevitably force the front office to curb the content that streams on each player’s respective feed.

The tweet that stoked the newswire flames came from All-Scrimmage defensive back Brandon McDonald who published a not-so-friendly tweet about division rival Cincinnati Bengals and their signing of veteran wide receiver Terrell Owens.  McDonald would pawn the tweet off as a joke, something that he claimed “escalated” despite his non-malicious intentions.  Joke or not, Browns head coach Eric Mangini discussed the team’s need to think before hitting that send button. [Read more...]

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While We’re Waiting… Mangini’s Bus Ride, WKNR’s New Media, and Icing Gator Bros

June 7, 2010 by 8 Comments

While We’re Waiting serves as the early morning gathering of WFNY-esque information for your viewing pleasure. Have something you think we should see? Send it to our tips email at tips@waitingfornextyear.com

About last year’s infamous bus ride: “A year later, I don’t miss that bus. But I did feel I needed to take a  minute to make sure the right part of this story gets at least a little attention.  There was no bus ride this year, but another camp is taking place  today. From what I’ve gathered via computer and cellular device, it’s the biggest one yet with nearly 1,000 participants. And that’s the shame of last year’s controversy, that a truly good deed that helps kids who could use a little boost was overshadowed.

Bulkeley High, Mangini’s alma mater, is a city school. Most of the  campers are city kids; boxing trainer and analyst Teddy Atlas charters a bus for New York City kids, many of whom have never been out of the city. Kids from all over New England come to compete and learn, many on “scholarship” to cover the $45 fee. Outstanding campers are awarded scholarships to camps on college campuses this summer, the kind of camps that lead to college scholarships.” [Zac Jackson/The OBR]

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Browns’ Brandon McDonald Embraces New Role

June 4, 2010 by 12 Comments

With Cleveland Browns Organized Team Activities in full swing, every player on the current roster is getting their chance to prove their worth.  With the Browns adding several defensive backs in the offseason, many have pointed to third-year cornerback Brandon McDonald as the weak link and an already not-so-strong chain.

But if Thursday’s practice was any indication, both McDonald and head coach Eric Mangini are keeping a positive frame of mind regarding the future of the player.

“I think [McDonald's] had a really good camp, similar to the type of camp that Brian Robiskie has had and that’s a positive thing,” said Mangini.  ”He’s played a lot of football. He’s been in a lot of games and that’s good.”

[Read more...]

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Browns New Additions Providing Much-Needed Leadership

May 26, 2010 by 5 Comments

While veteran additions like linebacker Scott Fujita and defensive back Sheldon Brown are not going to turn the Browns around on their own, their presence in Cleveland appears to reach way beyond the field of play.  With a team that is comprised of a relatively young core, Fujita and Brown are providing some much-needed veteran leadership – something that will hopefully carry on with the team even after the two veterans are gone.

Lane Adkins of the Orange and Brown Report has provided subscribers with a very in-depth look at the recent organized team activities.  Closed to the media, these OTAs are a time where the coaching staff can obtain a bit of a feel for what they will have to work with come September 12.  But it is also a time for new teammates to acclimate with one another; and if the recent reports are any indication, the acclimation process is going very well.

[Read more...]

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While We’re Waiting… MLB Season Begins, Kobe’s Extension and Brandon McDonald

April 4, 2010 by 8 Comments

While We’re Waiting serves up an early morning breakfast buffet of WFNY-esque goodies for your daily viewing pleasure (on weekends too!!) Have something else you think we should see? Send it to our fancy tips email address at tips@waitingfornextyear.com.

Kevin Kaduk and David Brown continue their MLB previews with this long-winded conversation about the American League Central Division: “I’d like to pick the Cleveland Indians higher. Or maybe I need to get higher to pick the Cleveland Indians. One or the other. The Tribe has some very intriguing young players. Matt LaPorta and Michael Brantley are on the verge of something, they hope. I like Lou Marson a lot behind the plate and even if he’s not so good, Carlos Santana awaits in the high minors. Chris Perez has closer’s stuff — which is good, because Kerry Wood’s annual trip to the disabled list has already begun.” [Big League Stew]

On that note as well, take a look at this nice article about how 2010 shapes up with 2009: “With opening day just a weekend away, here is a comparison to this year’s (likely) opening day roster compared to a year ago (when hope was still alive in the world).” [APV/Let's Go Tribe]
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Browns DB Brandon McDonald Accused of Assault

February 7, 2010 by 73 Comments

Browns defensive back Brandon McDonald has been accused of assault via his alleged ex-girlfriend Sabrina Parr. Parr, a personality on WKNR’s Really Big Show tweeted the following this afternoon:

From: @MsParrTheHost
Sent: Feb 7, 2010 3:46p

I have never been hit so hard in my life but I promise he WONT get away with this!

Later, she followed with the confirmation that it was in fact McDonald.

From: @MsParrTheHost
Sent: Feb 7, 2010 3:46p

So Brandon Mcdonald put his hands on me & went crazy! I’m definitely pressing charges & sewing his [edited]!

[Read more...]

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Holmgren Report: Defensive Backs

January 25, 2010 by 24 Comments

Browns Roster Upgrade SevereNow that The Big Show Mike Holmgren has shored up his front office roster, it’s time for him–and for us–to look at the team’s roster. We’ve borrowed from the Department of Homeland Security and will be looking at each position group day by day, finishing with a roster upgrade ranking based on need. Check back each day this week for a new position group. Previous Reports: RB, OL, WR/TE, QB, ST

While the quarterback position is bantered about more than others, and should be the highest priority for the new front office due to the impact on the game, the Browns also have a gaping hole on the other side of the ball.  Specifically, the one that helps keep the opposing quarterbacks honest: the defensive backfield.

The 2008 off-season saw players like Jabari Greer visit Cleveland looking for a deal, only to leave without one where he would then sign with New Orleans.  Instead, the team opted for re-signing Mike Adams, drafting two late-round defensive backs and attempting to add free agents Hank Poteat and Corey Ivy – the latter did not even make the final roster.  The result of said negligence was not pretty.  [Read more...]

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WKNR’s Sabrina Parr Fires Back at Reghi

October 8, 2009 by

sabrina-parr-2jpg-dc137f4c0ab11183_mediumIn response to Michael Reghi’s comments late yesterday afternoon, the much-discussed WKNR/850AM radio contributor Sabrina Parr took the set in order to defend the comments that have drawn the ire of many including local authorities. Similar to your evening news broadcast, the program waiting until one of the final segments for Parr’s response, but nonetheless.

“I’ve never met Michael Reghi, and would introduce myself if he was in the studio today. But clearly, he knows about me,” stated Parrr. “I looked up credibility. It describes the power that inspires belief. Yesterday, from my description and the listeners that tuned in leading to reports means I was pretty credible.” [Read more...]

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Report: Brandon McDonald No Longer a Starter

October 2, 2009 by 17 Comments

Rod HoodWhile the big change that will continue to get national coverage is that of Derek Anderson replacing Brady Quinn, we get word from The OBR that there are also changes on the defensive side of the ball.  The biggest of which is that Brandon McDonald has lost his starting spot to Mike Adams.

Despite plotting revenge against the Denver Broncos two weeks ago, McDonald was a part of a defense that gave up entirely too many second-half yards to long runs as well as yards after receptions.  The icing on the cake may just have been the 72-yard touchdown pass to Derrick Mason of the Baltimore Ravens last week. 

We will still see plenty of McDonald, and the team may just be sending him a sign that his starting spot is not as written in stone as he may have once thought.  Mike Adams isn’t exactly Nnamidi Asomugha, and in the event that the Browns are on the defensive side of a third-and-long, McDonald should get a crack at defending the slot.

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(Thomas Ondrey/The Plain Dealer)

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While We’re Waiting… Buckeyes/Bills Paradox, Rob Kurz to Camp, and McDonald’s Redemption

September 16, 2009 by 16 Comments

While We’re Waiting serves as the early morning gathering of WFNY-esque information for your viewing pleasure. Have something you think we should see? Send it to our tips email in the sidebar.

scott-norwood-wide-right 

But who’s our Norwood? “Ask Ohio State fans how they feel this week. In fact, let’s play a game inside the ClayNation Starting 11, what if Miami doesn’t get flagged for pass interference in 2003? Then “THE” Ohio State Buckeyes are college football’s Buffalo Bills, even more so, right? Ohio State would have lost the 2003, 2006, and 2007 title games. They already lost the big game at home to Vince Young and Texas in 2005, the big game to USC in 2008 and now 2009, the big game to Texas in 2008′s Fiesta Bowl. Think about this for a moment, absent that one single, belated penalty, Ohio State is the untrammeled master of failed expectations. Jim Tressel isn’t a genius in a sweatervest who owns the Big Ten, he’s just a guy in a sweatervest who is the best of a bad lot of teams. The guy in charge when Michigan switched identities.” [Clay Travis/NCAA FanHouse] 

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Browns Release CB Rod Hood

August 31, 2009 by 27 Comments

Rod HoodWith the NFL preseason wrapping up, the next step as we head into the regular season comes with roster cuts.  As the Browns look to reduce their roster to 75 players by tomorrow, they have announced their first wave up cuts.

A surprising name on said list is cornerback Roderick Hood, who the Browns just signed this offseason to help bolster the defensive backfield.  The 27-year old Hood was thought to be competing for a starting spot on the Browns and was recently touted as an upgrade over last season.  Unfortunately, he has gone from starting in the Super Bowl to having a fairly bad preseason ultimately resulting in his release.

The cornerback position currently rosters Eric Wright, Brandon McDonald, Hank Poteat, Corey Ivy and Coye Francies.  Not exactly an intimidating bunch, but still better than one that features Terry Cousin.  Stay tuned for other cuts as there are bound to be a few more surprises.

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(Image via Thomas Ondrey/The Plain Dealer)

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While We’re Waiting… Lee Continues to Flourish, Baseball Physics, and Football Outsiders

August 14, 2009 by 10 Comments

While We’re Waiting serves as the early morning gathering of WFNY-esque information for your viewing pleasure. Have something you think we should see? Send it to our tips email in the sidebar.

cliff-lee-cole-hamels 

Pour out some Great Lakes: “When he first came over, we kind of dubbed Cliff Lee the 1a to Cole’s No. 1 status in the rotation. No more. Cliff is this team’s beast [...]  Mr. Lee is the kind of guy you don’t only expect to pitch well every time out, you also expect a win.  MLBCoz points out that Since the All-Star Break, Cliff Lee is 5-0 with a 1.32 ERA in 5 starts with 3 complete games. The man is ours.” [Enrico/The 700 Level] 

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While We’re Waiting… The Big Ten Title, Odom and the Heat, and Scouting Connor Graham

July 27, 2009 by 13 Comments

While We’re Waiting serves as the early morning gathering of WFNY-esque information for your viewing pleasure. Have something you think we should see? Send it to our tips email in the sidebar.

carmen-ohio-2 

Since we always do so well when expected: “The Big Ten Conference announced today that Ohio State has been selected as the preseason favorite for the 2009 football season by media members attending the conference’s football media day. Penn State was tabbed to finish second, and Michigan State was third. In addition, the media panel also named Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor the Preseason Offensive Player of the Year and Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year.” [Big Ten dot Org]

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While We’re Waiting… Pavano’s Trade Value, Thoughts on the TMZ Tape, and Browns DBs

July 23, 2009 by 14 Comments

While We’re Waiting serves as the early morning gathering of WFNY-esque information for your viewing pleasure. Have something you think we should see? Send it to our tips email in the sidebar.

rainy-cleveland-day

The one where we provide a few more links than normal on this rainy Thursday morning…

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