Browns
Browns Head Coach Todd Monken is in a bit of a waiting game with standout left guard Joel Bitonio. Monken recently shared that he attempted to persuade Bitonio to return, but the seasoned lineman is still weighing his options.
"He came up to the office a few weeks ago, and we tried to talk him into it right then," Monken explained. "But he wasn't ready to commit just yet.
I'm all for great players, and Joel is one of those rare ones. His preparation and performance over the years have been nothing short of remarkable."
Bitonio, a veteran with 12 years under his belt, is taking his time to evaluate the situation, particularly focusing on the quarterback position.
"At the end of the day, the NFL is a quarterback league," Bitonio noted. "Having an elite quarterback gives you a better chance at sustained success. Until you find that stable leader, it's tough to avoid the ups and downs."
Bitonio hinted that his decision might not come for a couple of months. "It's tough to make a call right now. The offseason gives you a chance to breathe, and it's hard to say, 'I'm retiring,' when things don't really ramp up until June or July."
Ravens
The Ravens stirred up some buzz when they backed out of a trade for Raiders DE Maxx Crosby, citing a failed physical. Baltimore's GM, Eric DeCosta, addressed the situation, emphasizing his commitment to the team's best interests.
"We live in an age of skepticism," DeCosta said. "I understand the questions, but my responsibility is to the Ravens, our community, and our fans."
The timing raised eyebrows, as the Ravens withdrew from the trade when DE Trey Hendrickson remained unsigned. Some believe the trade was meant as a backup plan if Hendrickson wasn't secured.
A league executive speculated, "I think the trade was insurance in case they couldn't land Hendrickson. They seemed willing to pay a premium for that security."
Steelers
Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. shared his enthusiasm after an encouraging chat with Head Coach Mike McCarthy.
"I don't want to spill all the details, but it was very positive," Pittman said. "Pittsburgh's style of tough, gritty football feels like a perfect fit for me."
Meanwhile, Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb offered insights into McCarthy's offensive strategy, which he previously experienced.
"We called it the 'Texas Coast' when he was with us," Lamb explained. "I'm sure it'll be the 'Steelers Coast' there.
It's got a West Coast vibe, focusing on spreading the ball and attacking vertically. The quickest path to the end zone is right through the middle."