WoodysGirl
09-01-2004, 12:21 PM
posted this since nobody else did...
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Chris Mortensen: (10:59 AM ET ) Good morning.... how has everyone been out there? I'm very excited about the football season - pro, college and high school. I love it all. Let's get started today - by the way, I think I'm moving this chat to 11 a.m. ET every Wednesday. Thanks for joining me every week. I do appreciate it.
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Ray (Jackson,MS): Mort: A lot of hype coming out of Seattle. To me its just that every year a team thinks its ready to take over and try and to get over the hump. They thought it last year, but were simply outclassed by the Rams. The Rams had to go through the rites of passage with Frisco, just like Seattle has to and I don't think they are there. The Rams have mind control over them.
Chris Mortensen: (11:01 AM ET ) I think the Seahawks are legit and probably the smart pick for the NFC West. I did see the Rams in person Friday night and I was impressed. I think it's a stretch on the "mind control." The Seahawks are a good pick but the Rams may be underrated.
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Shawn, Milwaukee, WI: Hey Mort, your chat is the highlight of my week. I have been really excited about Steeler running game this preseason. If it contiunes, do you think that can make the difference and get them back to playoff, barring any more injuries
Chris Mortensen: (11:03 AM ET ) If the Steelers do run the ball, it will make a huge difference because I think it will allow Tommy Maddox the comfort he needs to play QB in this league. I don't see the Steelers as a playoff team this year - but I don't own the market on prognostication. That's why this is a great league. But you're definitely onto something if they can run it.
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Tom, Greenlawn, NY: Did the giants make the right call by starting Warner over Manning?
Chris Mortensen: (11:06 AM ET ) I'd trust Tom Coughlin on this one. He wants to win and he wants to develop Eli Manning. It's a tough juggling act. It actually is a pretty favorable position - Warner played well and Manning showed enough to justify the Giants' big trade for him. I think there's no set formula for playing young quarterbacks. It's case by case. I think Eli is ready than most but I have confidence in Coughlin's ability to make the right call at the right time.
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Gordy (Flushing, MI): Greetings Mort, How do you think a couple of 3rd yr qb's will fair in Harrington and Carr? Either one primed for a huge year?
Chris Mortensen: (11:07 AM ET ) I think Carr has a chance to be special and that Harrington should mature into a very productive QB, especially as that young talent (Rogers, Williams, Jones, etc.) matures around him. Carr just has exceptional skills - arm and athletically, so I do favor him. But both guys should break out more this year, yes.
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John M - Columbus, Oh: What are your thoughts on the Eagles running game? This worries me more than the rash of defensive injuries that have plagued them.
Chris Mortensen: (11:10 AM ET ) The Eagles running game should be pretty strong, in my opionion, because the O-line is one of the best, most physical in the NFL. The addition of Shawn Andrews - who will play RG this year - makes them very imposing. I believe Andy Reid will find a way to be productive with his guys. They still will be a failry pass-oriented team. And I do understand why you're worried a little about the defense. They could be vulnerable to the rush.
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Ronan (Ireland): Hey Mort, How do you think Miami's physical corners, Maddison & Surtain, will react to the stricter interpretation of the "no-contact downfield" rule imposed this year in the NFL ? Do you think they will soften their full-press coverage in any way or will we see more yellow flags in South Florida this season ?
Chris Mortensen: (11:11 AM ET ) Of all the teams, the Dolphins and the Patriots have to be nervous about the stricter enforcement of the contact rule. I think you'll see the Dolphins make an adjustment and mix in more zone coverage, although they did more of it last year.
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Jim Booch (NYC): Mort, Last-minute fantasy football question: Who would you select between McAllister, Shaun Alexander, and Portis?
Chris Mortensen: (11:12 AM ET ) I'd probably say McAllister.
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David F - Sidney, OH: If Mike Vick doesn't lead the Falcons to the playoffs this year do you think they will deal him elsewhere?
Chris Mortensen: (11:14 AM ET ) No, I don't, even from the franchise that has allowed Hall of Famers like Deion sanders and Brett Favre to depart. Vick does have to prove he can be healthy but I don't think this is the make-or-break year. He's an enormous talent and the Falcons went to the playoffs (second round) in his one full season of starting and they were 3-1 in December last year when he came back from the broken leg. They are high on Matt Schaub but Vick is their man.
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Chris, CT: Hey Mort, give me some insight on what went down with the Hugh Douglas situation. Why was he cut, and were there any other serious suitors for him other than the Eagles? Perhaps the Giants?
Chris Mortensen: (11:17 AM ET ) Douglas disappointed the Jags last year when he produced just 3.5 sacks after getting a $6 million signing bonus. They gave him the benefit of doubt because he didn't report in great shape a year ago. This year, he rededicated himself and the Jags just didn't see any speed or explosiveness off the edge. I believe there were a lot of interested parties - but not for big money. Hugh has a lot of friends on the Eagles, so it's a nice fit there.
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Tim, Philadelphia, pa: Mort, any word on the James Jackson situation in Cleveland? I know they were looking to get a 3rd round pick in return, and teams were only interested in offering a fourth rounder. Think Miami is going to retnk this and offer a 3rd round pick eventually?
Chris Mortensen: (11:17 AM ET ) I'd be surprised if they get a 3rd round pick - maybe a fourth or fifth rounder. The Dolphins haven't ruled him out yet.
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Michael (Florence, SC): To me, the Panthers look better at every position (yes even the DBs) than last year except at OLine. What I've seen of the line so far leads me to believe they will be able to Pass Block effectively, but the Run game might suffer. Considering Fox's philosophy, can the Panthers win with this OLine?
Chris Mortensen: (11:19 AM ET ) I like the Panthers. Yes, their O-line is a legit concern. But they have a terrific coahcing staff and they will find ways around it. I agree that their passing game could be even more productive - Delhomme looks really good and Steve Smith is a legit Pro Bowl receiver. The other area that would be a concern is the secondary.
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Mike - Waldorf, MD: During the preseason the Redskins have played a very basic offense scheme, my question is, is this what we can expect from Gibbs or will he mix things up when the season begins?
Chris Mortensen: (11:21 AM ET ) I'm as curious as you. The Redskins look like they're struggling to me. It's possible that Gibbs is holding a lot back, but right now I'm reserving judgment. I would not pick the Redskins as a plyoff team right now, but they certainly cna change my mind once they start playing for real.
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J (Cleveland): Lot of opposing players dont think McGahee is running with authority. Is he coming back too soon?
Chris Mortensen: (11:23 AM ET ) No, he's not coming back too soon. You just have to get in the saddle again and again before you get comfortable. The Bills have believed all along that it will be October before he gets to about 95 percent. His knee is fine.
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Boudreaux- Austin Tx (1260 espn radio): I really have a bad feeling about me Saints this year. Our defense will continue to give up big plays, and I feel our offense looks good only on paper. Do you think McKenzie would help us and is he worth a 1st round pick??
Chris Mortensen: (11:27 AM ET ) The Saints' weakness still appears to be their secondary. They have one of the best defensive lines (depth, too) but they can't be in the QB's face all the time. McKenzie would be a great pick-up. I'd be tempted to trade a first because the Saints need to take the next step as a playoff team. But he also wants a lot more money, so that's a factor.
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Jeff ( Detroit, MI ): Hi Mort, A couple weeks ago you picked the Bucs to win the NFC South. What makes you think that they are good enough at RB and WR to pull this off? I just don't see it. Not to mention that the Panthers have looked excellent in the pre-season.
Chris Mortensen: (11:29 AM ET ) yeah, maybe I'm waffling on the Bucs. I think Gruden will do OK with the RBs - Garner, Alstott and Pittman (who serves a 3-game suspension to start the year). I think Joey Galloway and Jurevcious must step up, and I believe Michael Clayton could be an offensive rookie of year candidate. I admit it, though: I'm leaning toward the Panthers. I'm weak.
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Jeremy (Arlington,TX): Why is everyone writing off the Packers this year. The defense looks better even without McKenzie and the offense we know is explosive, so why no love for the Pack?
Chris Mortensen: (11:32 AM ET ) I will continue to say this: I think the Packers are underrated. If they can get their offensive line back together, their offense is one of the best. I think their secondary has issues and it would be nice if they get McKenzie back. I think the Pack and the Vikings give us another good race in the NFC North.
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Mike (Drexel Hill): Mort,who do you think will be the most productive Rookie WR this year? I'm going with Roy Williams over Fitzgerald simply because he has a running game and other productive revievers around him
Chris Mortensen: (11:34 AM ET ) It might be Michael Clayton. But I kinda believe that Fitzgerald will get more opportunites to catch the ball in Arizona. Roy Williams is a real talent but there's other young players around him and you never know how that will come together.
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jason sydney AUSTRALIA: MORT DO WHERE AUSTRALIA IS I KEEP SENDING QUESTIONS AND DON'T ANSWER THEM I LIKE SEE THE RAMS MAKE THE SUPERBOWL THIS SEASON
Chris Mortensen: (11:35 AM ET ) You have company - all the rams fans would like to see them make the Super Bowl, too. I do know that Mike Martz is very high on this team and believes they will be tough once their O-line settles in. I don't see them as a Super Bowl team.
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gabriel, san diego, ca.: hey mort you gotta answer this one, well now that woodson is a sure thing in oakland do you think they have a legitamite chance to top the afc west?
Chris Mortensen: (11:37 AM ET ) I really believe the Raiders could be one of those "surprise" teams - which is weird, thinking of the Raiders as a "surprise." I think they'll give the Chiefs and Broncos all they can handle in that AFC West race.
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Vick (Santa Rosa,TX): Hey Mort, I was wondering what your thoughts on Juluis Jones is, and do you think he will be a major weapon for the Cowboys' offense this season? Also do you think Terence Newman can become one of the top 5 CB's in the NFL, maybe better?
Chris Mortensen: (11:39 AM ET ) I actually talked to a few personnel guys last week about the top corners and Newman was mentioned consistently. I'd put him in that top five with Ty Law, Chris McAlister, Champ Baileyand Charles Woodson. I think Jones will be one of the reasons the Cowboys push the Eagles for the title in the NFC East.
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Tom (Bloomington, IN): Why is it that the bears keep getting snubbed? They were tough down the stretch last year and added some real interesting pieces this off-season. No one will confuse them with a SB contender, but how many teams want to face them now that they have Wale?
Chris Mortensen: (11:41 AM ET ) I just think they're going to have a transiition. I expect their defense to be pretty good again. I just can't find anybody who believes Grossman is a starting QB in this league. Myself, I want to see him play before passing judgment.
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Don (dallas, TX): With the new enforcement on cornerbacks, doesn't the NFL set itself up for more controversy both with players and fans? As a Patriots fan, it seems to me that Payton Manning will will continue his tradition of not being as effective against the Pats as other teams.
Chris Mortensen: (11:43 AM ET ) Sure, there will be controversy. I think Bill Belichick will always find a way to have one of the best defenses. Peyton Manning has had some good games vs. the Pats - but I don't know of any quarterback who gets very comfortable playing them.
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Brendan (PA): Mort, don't delude the Cowboy fans!! They will have a great D but you know that Vinnie is gonna have his issues in the regular season with his age (1TD from starters this preseason). They will be back, but the Tuna gets too much credit. Like they said on NFL Live, anyone else picks up these guys (Vinnie, Key, and Eddie) and we laugh. The Boys have too many issues on Offense to threaten the Eagles THIS year!
Chris Mortensen: (11:46 AM ET ) You'll be surprised - and disappointed if you believe everything you just said. I'm actuallly wondering about the Cowboys' defense more than their offense. The Dallas offense will be better - maybe much better than last year.
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Chris (New York): How do you see Jake Plummer faring with the depleted offense in Denver?
Chris Mortensen: (11:47 AM ET ) I'd be worried if I were a Broncos fan. Unless Ashley Lelie takes a big step up, Plummer will suffer. But I do think the Broncos will be fine running the ball, and that should help him. They are a bubble team right now.
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Patrick (Mayfield, KY): Mort, give TENNESSEE some love! What do you think of the Titans' chances to finally win a Superbowl? And also, do you think Tyrone Calico will be a top-flight receiver and break out this year?
Chris Mortensen: (11:50 AM ET ) I always put the Titans in my column of Super Bowl contenders because of Jeff Fisher and Steve McNair. Calico is hurt, so that's a blow. They think he can make some Randy Moss-type plays but Mason and Bennett have to carry it for now. I can't say enough about McNair. The defense will always be tough and McNair ggives them a chance to win every Sunday.
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kenny (Huntsville, AL): Please answer a Chiefs question! Although the defense has serious questions, do you think the receivers are good enough to take them to the next level?
Chris Mortensen: (11:54 AM ET ) When I look at the Chiefs, I think the receivers are the biggest question. Eddie Kennison and Johnny Morton will have to step up, especially with Boerigter out. I do wonder whether they should make a trade for McCardell or Burress (as has been rumored). They do have Tony Gonzalez, Trent Green and priest Holmes and Al Saunders seems to push all the right buttons as O-coordinator.
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Justin - NY: J E T S, JETS..JETS...JETS!!! Hey Chad, what do you think of the contract that the other Chad will sign soon? Do you think it's too high? Or just right for the market. What's your overall opinion of the "Rhodes Scholar" anyway? Thanks.
Chris Mortensen: (11:56 AM ET ) I think the contract is appropriate. Pennington is a great anchor for the franchise. They are an interesting team if they can bring that young defense together.
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harry(DC): Have you seen sean taylor? he's a monster! the redskins were definitely the wiser to choose him instead of winslow. his attitude wouldn't fit well with a gibbs team. which rookies do you think will have the most impact on defense?
Chris Mortensen: (11:57 AM ET ) Sean Taylor is hands-down the best defensive rookie in the NFL and he may prove to be one of the best players, regardless of position. His personality is puzzling but we have to judge him on his field play for now.
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Jason, Seattle: Mort, we have all heard about the NCAA ruling prohibiting Mike Williams from playing this year and the CBA from making him eligible for the draft and guaranteed money; what is the possibility of Mike turning pro as an undrafted free agent this year, does the CBA prohibit that as well and is that in his best interest since he now may lose his first round draft status?
Chris Mortensen: (11:59 AM ET ) Mike Williams cannot be an undrafted free agent because the same three-year rule applies. I also do not expect him to lose his high first round draft status as long as he keeps his weight down. Next year's receiving class will not compare to this last one, so Williams will benefit from that, even though it's a shame he's not playing. I wish he had not hired an agent and stayed in school.
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Erik (Md): How is Marshal Faulk looking and will he have a productive year.
Chris Mortensen: (12:02 PM ET ) I was in St. Louis on Friday and Marshall sounded very confident that his knee is well and that he will be productive. But he's got some years on him and he's paid some dues, so I don't expect that MVP-type production and rookie Steven Jackson has looked sharp, so I believe Mike Martz will take some of the load off Faulk.
Chris Mortensen: (12:02 PM ET ) That's the hour. Time to run. I'll check in next week! Thanks and God Bless!
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Chris Mortensen: (10:59 AM ET ) Good morning.... how has everyone been out there? I'm very excited about the football season - pro, college and high school. I love it all. Let's get started today - by the way, I think I'm moving this chat to 11 a.m. ET every Wednesday. Thanks for joining me every week. I do appreciate it.
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Ray (Jackson,MS): Mort: A lot of hype coming out of Seattle. To me its just that every year a team thinks its ready to take over and try and to get over the hump. They thought it last year, but were simply outclassed by the Rams. The Rams had to go through the rites of passage with Frisco, just like Seattle has to and I don't think they are there. The Rams have mind control over them.
Chris Mortensen: (11:01 AM ET ) I think the Seahawks are legit and probably the smart pick for the NFC West. I did see the Rams in person Friday night and I was impressed. I think it's a stretch on the "mind control." The Seahawks are a good pick but the Rams may be underrated.
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Shawn, Milwaukee, WI: Hey Mort, your chat is the highlight of my week. I have been really excited about Steeler running game this preseason. If it contiunes, do you think that can make the difference and get them back to playoff, barring any more injuries
Chris Mortensen: (11:03 AM ET ) If the Steelers do run the ball, it will make a huge difference because I think it will allow Tommy Maddox the comfort he needs to play QB in this league. I don't see the Steelers as a playoff team this year - but I don't own the market on prognostication. That's why this is a great league. But you're definitely onto something if they can run it.
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Tom, Greenlawn, NY: Did the giants make the right call by starting Warner over Manning?
Chris Mortensen: (11:06 AM ET ) I'd trust Tom Coughlin on this one. He wants to win and he wants to develop Eli Manning. It's a tough juggling act. It actually is a pretty favorable position - Warner played well and Manning showed enough to justify the Giants' big trade for him. I think there's no set formula for playing young quarterbacks. It's case by case. I think Eli is ready than most but I have confidence in Coughlin's ability to make the right call at the right time.
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Gordy (Flushing, MI): Greetings Mort, How do you think a couple of 3rd yr qb's will fair in Harrington and Carr? Either one primed for a huge year?
Chris Mortensen: (11:07 AM ET ) I think Carr has a chance to be special and that Harrington should mature into a very productive QB, especially as that young talent (Rogers, Williams, Jones, etc.) matures around him. Carr just has exceptional skills - arm and athletically, so I do favor him. But both guys should break out more this year, yes.
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John M - Columbus, Oh: What are your thoughts on the Eagles running game? This worries me more than the rash of defensive injuries that have plagued them.
Chris Mortensen: (11:10 AM ET ) The Eagles running game should be pretty strong, in my opionion, because the O-line is one of the best, most physical in the NFL. The addition of Shawn Andrews - who will play RG this year - makes them very imposing. I believe Andy Reid will find a way to be productive with his guys. They still will be a failry pass-oriented team. And I do understand why you're worried a little about the defense. They could be vulnerable to the rush.
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Ronan (Ireland): Hey Mort, How do you think Miami's physical corners, Maddison & Surtain, will react to the stricter interpretation of the "no-contact downfield" rule imposed this year in the NFL ? Do you think they will soften their full-press coverage in any way or will we see more yellow flags in South Florida this season ?
Chris Mortensen: (11:11 AM ET ) Of all the teams, the Dolphins and the Patriots have to be nervous about the stricter enforcement of the contact rule. I think you'll see the Dolphins make an adjustment and mix in more zone coverage, although they did more of it last year.
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Jim Booch (NYC): Mort, Last-minute fantasy football question: Who would you select between McAllister, Shaun Alexander, and Portis?
Chris Mortensen: (11:12 AM ET ) I'd probably say McAllister.
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David F - Sidney, OH: If Mike Vick doesn't lead the Falcons to the playoffs this year do you think they will deal him elsewhere?
Chris Mortensen: (11:14 AM ET ) No, I don't, even from the franchise that has allowed Hall of Famers like Deion sanders and Brett Favre to depart. Vick does have to prove he can be healthy but I don't think this is the make-or-break year. He's an enormous talent and the Falcons went to the playoffs (second round) in his one full season of starting and they were 3-1 in December last year when he came back from the broken leg. They are high on Matt Schaub but Vick is their man.
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Chris, CT: Hey Mort, give me some insight on what went down with the Hugh Douglas situation. Why was he cut, and were there any other serious suitors for him other than the Eagles? Perhaps the Giants?
Chris Mortensen: (11:17 AM ET ) Douglas disappointed the Jags last year when he produced just 3.5 sacks after getting a $6 million signing bonus. They gave him the benefit of doubt because he didn't report in great shape a year ago. This year, he rededicated himself and the Jags just didn't see any speed or explosiveness off the edge. I believe there were a lot of interested parties - but not for big money. Hugh has a lot of friends on the Eagles, so it's a nice fit there.
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Tim, Philadelphia, pa: Mort, any word on the James Jackson situation in Cleveland? I know they were looking to get a 3rd round pick in return, and teams were only interested in offering a fourth rounder. Think Miami is going to retnk this and offer a 3rd round pick eventually?
Chris Mortensen: (11:17 AM ET ) I'd be surprised if they get a 3rd round pick - maybe a fourth or fifth rounder. The Dolphins haven't ruled him out yet.
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Michael (Florence, SC): To me, the Panthers look better at every position (yes even the DBs) than last year except at OLine. What I've seen of the line so far leads me to believe they will be able to Pass Block effectively, but the Run game might suffer. Considering Fox's philosophy, can the Panthers win with this OLine?
Chris Mortensen: (11:19 AM ET ) I like the Panthers. Yes, their O-line is a legit concern. But they have a terrific coahcing staff and they will find ways around it. I agree that their passing game could be even more productive - Delhomme looks really good and Steve Smith is a legit Pro Bowl receiver. The other area that would be a concern is the secondary.
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Mike - Waldorf, MD: During the preseason the Redskins have played a very basic offense scheme, my question is, is this what we can expect from Gibbs or will he mix things up when the season begins?
Chris Mortensen: (11:21 AM ET ) I'm as curious as you. The Redskins look like they're struggling to me. It's possible that Gibbs is holding a lot back, but right now I'm reserving judgment. I would not pick the Redskins as a plyoff team right now, but they certainly cna change my mind once they start playing for real.
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J (Cleveland): Lot of opposing players dont think McGahee is running with authority. Is he coming back too soon?
Chris Mortensen: (11:23 AM ET ) No, he's not coming back too soon. You just have to get in the saddle again and again before you get comfortable. The Bills have believed all along that it will be October before he gets to about 95 percent. His knee is fine.
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Boudreaux- Austin Tx (1260 espn radio): I really have a bad feeling about me Saints this year. Our defense will continue to give up big plays, and I feel our offense looks good only on paper. Do you think McKenzie would help us and is he worth a 1st round pick??
Chris Mortensen: (11:27 AM ET ) The Saints' weakness still appears to be their secondary. They have one of the best defensive lines (depth, too) but they can't be in the QB's face all the time. McKenzie would be a great pick-up. I'd be tempted to trade a first because the Saints need to take the next step as a playoff team. But he also wants a lot more money, so that's a factor.
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Jeff ( Detroit, MI ): Hi Mort, A couple weeks ago you picked the Bucs to win the NFC South. What makes you think that they are good enough at RB and WR to pull this off? I just don't see it. Not to mention that the Panthers have looked excellent in the pre-season.
Chris Mortensen: (11:29 AM ET ) yeah, maybe I'm waffling on the Bucs. I think Gruden will do OK with the RBs - Garner, Alstott and Pittman (who serves a 3-game suspension to start the year). I think Joey Galloway and Jurevcious must step up, and I believe Michael Clayton could be an offensive rookie of year candidate. I admit it, though: I'm leaning toward the Panthers. I'm weak.
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Jeremy (Arlington,TX): Why is everyone writing off the Packers this year. The defense looks better even without McKenzie and the offense we know is explosive, so why no love for the Pack?
Chris Mortensen: (11:32 AM ET ) I will continue to say this: I think the Packers are underrated. If they can get their offensive line back together, their offense is one of the best. I think their secondary has issues and it would be nice if they get McKenzie back. I think the Pack and the Vikings give us another good race in the NFC North.
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Mike (Drexel Hill): Mort,who do you think will be the most productive Rookie WR this year? I'm going with Roy Williams over Fitzgerald simply because he has a running game and other productive revievers around him
Chris Mortensen: (11:34 AM ET ) It might be Michael Clayton. But I kinda believe that Fitzgerald will get more opportunites to catch the ball in Arizona. Roy Williams is a real talent but there's other young players around him and you never know how that will come together.
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jason sydney AUSTRALIA: MORT DO WHERE AUSTRALIA IS I KEEP SENDING QUESTIONS AND DON'T ANSWER THEM I LIKE SEE THE RAMS MAKE THE SUPERBOWL THIS SEASON
Chris Mortensen: (11:35 AM ET ) You have company - all the rams fans would like to see them make the Super Bowl, too. I do know that Mike Martz is very high on this team and believes they will be tough once their O-line settles in. I don't see them as a Super Bowl team.
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gabriel, san diego, ca.: hey mort you gotta answer this one, well now that woodson is a sure thing in oakland do you think they have a legitamite chance to top the afc west?
Chris Mortensen: (11:37 AM ET ) I really believe the Raiders could be one of those "surprise" teams - which is weird, thinking of the Raiders as a "surprise." I think they'll give the Chiefs and Broncos all they can handle in that AFC West race.
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Vick (Santa Rosa,TX): Hey Mort, I was wondering what your thoughts on Juluis Jones is, and do you think he will be a major weapon for the Cowboys' offense this season? Also do you think Terence Newman can become one of the top 5 CB's in the NFL, maybe better?
Chris Mortensen: (11:39 AM ET ) I actually talked to a few personnel guys last week about the top corners and Newman was mentioned consistently. I'd put him in that top five with Ty Law, Chris McAlister, Champ Baileyand Charles Woodson. I think Jones will be one of the reasons the Cowboys push the Eagles for the title in the NFC East.
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Tom (Bloomington, IN): Why is it that the bears keep getting snubbed? They were tough down the stretch last year and added some real interesting pieces this off-season. No one will confuse them with a SB contender, but how many teams want to face them now that they have Wale?
Chris Mortensen: (11:41 AM ET ) I just think they're going to have a transiition. I expect their defense to be pretty good again. I just can't find anybody who believes Grossman is a starting QB in this league. Myself, I want to see him play before passing judgment.
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Don (dallas, TX): With the new enforcement on cornerbacks, doesn't the NFL set itself up for more controversy both with players and fans? As a Patriots fan, it seems to me that Payton Manning will will continue his tradition of not being as effective against the Pats as other teams.
Chris Mortensen: (11:43 AM ET ) Sure, there will be controversy. I think Bill Belichick will always find a way to have one of the best defenses. Peyton Manning has had some good games vs. the Pats - but I don't know of any quarterback who gets very comfortable playing them.
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Brendan (PA): Mort, don't delude the Cowboy fans!! They will have a great D but you know that Vinnie is gonna have his issues in the regular season with his age (1TD from starters this preseason). They will be back, but the Tuna gets too much credit. Like they said on NFL Live, anyone else picks up these guys (Vinnie, Key, and Eddie) and we laugh. The Boys have too many issues on Offense to threaten the Eagles THIS year!
Chris Mortensen: (11:46 AM ET ) You'll be surprised - and disappointed if you believe everything you just said. I'm actuallly wondering about the Cowboys' defense more than their offense. The Dallas offense will be better - maybe much better than last year.
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Chris (New York): How do you see Jake Plummer faring with the depleted offense in Denver?
Chris Mortensen: (11:47 AM ET ) I'd be worried if I were a Broncos fan. Unless Ashley Lelie takes a big step up, Plummer will suffer. But I do think the Broncos will be fine running the ball, and that should help him. They are a bubble team right now.
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Patrick (Mayfield, KY): Mort, give TENNESSEE some love! What do you think of the Titans' chances to finally win a Superbowl? And also, do you think Tyrone Calico will be a top-flight receiver and break out this year?
Chris Mortensen: (11:50 AM ET ) I always put the Titans in my column of Super Bowl contenders because of Jeff Fisher and Steve McNair. Calico is hurt, so that's a blow. They think he can make some Randy Moss-type plays but Mason and Bennett have to carry it for now. I can't say enough about McNair. The defense will always be tough and McNair ggives them a chance to win every Sunday.
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kenny (Huntsville, AL): Please answer a Chiefs question! Although the defense has serious questions, do you think the receivers are good enough to take them to the next level?
Chris Mortensen: (11:54 AM ET ) When I look at the Chiefs, I think the receivers are the biggest question. Eddie Kennison and Johnny Morton will have to step up, especially with Boerigter out. I do wonder whether they should make a trade for McCardell or Burress (as has been rumored). They do have Tony Gonzalez, Trent Green and priest Holmes and Al Saunders seems to push all the right buttons as O-coordinator.
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Justin - NY: J E T S, JETS..JETS...JETS!!! Hey Chad, what do you think of the contract that the other Chad will sign soon? Do you think it's too high? Or just right for the market. What's your overall opinion of the "Rhodes Scholar" anyway? Thanks.
Chris Mortensen: (11:56 AM ET ) I think the contract is appropriate. Pennington is a great anchor for the franchise. They are an interesting team if they can bring that young defense together.
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harry(DC): Have you seen sean taylor? he's a monster! the redskins were definitely the wiser to choose him instead of winslow. his attitude wouldn't fit well with a gibbs team. which rookies do you think will have the most impact on defense?
Chris Mortensen: (11:57 AM ET ) Sean Taylor is hands-down the best defensive rookie in the NFL and he may prove to be one of the best players, regardless of position. His personality is puzzling but we have to judge him on his field play for now.
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Jason, Seattle: Mort, we have all heard about the NCAA ruling prohibiting Mike Williams from playing this year and the CBA from making him eligible for the draft and guaranteed money; what is the possibility of Mike turning pro as an undrafted free agent this year, does the CBA prohibit that as well and is that in his best interest since he now may lose his first round draft status?
Chris Mortensen: (11:59 AM ET ) Mike Williams cannot be an undrafted free agent because the same three-year rule applies. I also do not expect him to lose his high first round draft status as long as he keeps his weight down. Next year's receiving class will not compare to this last one, so Williams will benefit from that, even though it's a shame he's not playing. I wish he had not hired an agent and stayed in school.
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Erik (Md): How is Marshal Faulk looking and will he have a productive year.
Chris Mortensen: (12:02 PM ET ) I was in St. Louis on Friday and Marshall sounded very confident that his knee is well and that he will be productive. But he's got some years on him and he's paid some dues, so I don't expect that MVP-type production and rookie Steven Jackson has looked sharp, so I believe Mike Martz will take some of the load off Faulk.
Chris Mortensen: (12:02 PM ET ) That's the hour. Time to run. I'll check in next week! Thanks and God Bless!