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This is another excerpt from My Life as a Pittsburgh Steelers Fan written by Swissvale72.  The link below will take you to the full document (70 pages) to read at your pleasure.  A great deal of effort and memory went into this piece and we thank Swiss for sharing and taking the time to put his experiences on paper to share with other fans.  Enjoy!

http://members.cox.net/steelerfury/Wer efromthetown.pdf

On the first day of the NFL combine I knew this draft was going to be wide open. Most drafts you can sit there with a defined list of the top twenty prospects from each position. The 2008 draft was very unique; every time I made a list it would change two day’s later. I stated weekly I have no clue what the Steelers were going to do…If I would have told you one week ago the Steelers will draft the number two rated running back in the draft in round one and the third best wide receiver in the draft in round two without trading you would think I smoked myself retarded.

I traditionally grade drafts harshly…I rarely agree with the main stream media. I follow one team religiously The Pittsburgh Steelers…Some of you will disagree with my grading I accept and welcome it.

1^st Round

Rashard Mendenhall Running Back Illinois

I believe this is a great pick. He is a four tool back. He can run the ball between the tackles, bounce the ball to the edge…Mendenhall runs with a great body lean, low pads and great vision. Mendenhall is a very good receiver out of the back field…He has the ability to split out wide and run routes…Mendenhall is fantastic in blitz pickup.

He is a perfect compliment to Willie Parker. Mendenhall is twenty years young with little wear and tear on his body. The question marks you hear about Mendenhall are two fold. Ball security…This is an issue and he must improve…He was awful as a sophomore…Improved as a junior. Mendenhall didn’t play hard until he became a starter. I say bull poo.

Final thoughts…Mendenhall may have been the best back between the tackles in this years draft…I am elated with the pick.

2^nd Round

Limas Sweed WR Texas

Another great pick…Way to Go Colbert!!! Sweed is the big target Ben asked for. Sweed is a great talent…He was the top rated Wr on my board for this draft. Sweed is the only “Big Wr” in this draft who regularly gets separation to beat man coverage. Sweed is 6-5 he runs sub 4.5 with big soft hands…He understands how to use that big body to shield defensive backs and attack the ball at its highest point. Sweed is a very willing blocker with great character.

The Sweed pick made my first day…The major knock on Sweed is his route running. I disagree with that view…Vince Young and Colt McCoy are great leaders -  both have struggled with accuracy throwing the ball. Sweed is a hard worker…TO and Randy Moss struggle with route running as well…They had decent 2007 seasons…Sometimes big men don’t look pretty. Sweed’s wrist injury checked out.

Final thoughts…Two years down the road at this time we still will be talking how much of a steal Sweed was in round 2.

Round 3

Bruce Davis UCLA Linebacker

Davis has a motor that doesn’t stop…He is relentless getting up field and attacking the passer. He anticipates the snap count and beats tackles out of their stance. I don’t like this pick…I really like the player…I don’t see where he fits. Davis opened his career at outside linebacker for the Bruins…Was moved inside to defensive end his junior year and exploded for 24 sacks and 43 tackles for loss over 2 seasons. Davis drove PAC 10 tackles nuts.

Davis was supposedly very impressive at his pro day workouts and at the combine playing in space. If Davis can drop into coverage and make plays…This pick was brilliant. I expect Davis to rush the passer and give Woodley and Harrison a blow in nickel and dime looks in 2008. Davis has all the intangibles you look for in a player. He plays hard, he plays with a passion, he is a very sound tackler…He leaves everything he has on the field.

Final thoughts…There is no denying Davis can rush the quarterback and cause chaos in the opposing team’s back field…If the Steelers are right and Davis can drop into coverage he will be a steal.

Round 4

Tony Hills Texas OT

Hills was an awful pick. He does nothing well. He is weak at the point of attack. He has slow feet…He is undersized and lacks playing strength. I would not have signed Hills as an undrafted free agent. I can’t think of a single quality player Hills faced in college and he failed to dominate…He actually was dominated.

Slow weak and small don’t feed the bull dog in the NFL

Final thoughts…Think Paul Wiggins…Think Chris Conrad…Think Kris Farris…Yeah that bad

Round 5

Dennis Dixon Oregon QB

Dixon has NFL arm strength. Dixon has NFL heart and composure. Dixon has a lot of tools to work with. Pre Knee injury he was a legit 4.5 guy…He out ran most defenders he faced. Dixon is not a scrambler and he is willing to read a defense…He has stones like Ben…He will sit in the pocket and take a pounding to hit the open receiver.

I have an opinion on drafting a quarterback…The player must be able to lead…Dixon is a natural leader. The player must have enough arm strength to make the opposing team respect the vertical passing game…Dixon has plenty of arm strength. The player must be able to process information quickly and make sound decisions with the ball…This I am not sure of…The players must have 2 seasons starting with at least a 60% completion percentage…Dixon does.

Final Thoughts…Charlie Batch is 34 years young…Ben plays quarterback like a kamikaze…Dixon has a lot of tools to work with…Pre Injury he was considered a second round pick…I would have preferred a defensive end…Dixon could develop into a quality player and become an asset to trade away in the future

Round 5 B

Mike Humpal Iowa LB

Tough farm boy with plenty of heart…He is a far better athlete then most people expect. Humpal doesn’t have blazing straight line speed…He plays sideline to sideline with plenty of quickness…He reads blocking schemes as well as any backer in this draft. Tom Bradley defensive coordinator at Penn St compared Humpal’s skill set and passion for the game to a former Steelers linebacker…Jack Ham.

Humpal is a run stuffing machine. He reads… He reacts…He tackles…The whistle is blown…Time for the next play. Humpal also does a decent job in zone coverage…He struggles to open his hips and run with a back or a tight end…He won’t be asked to do that often in Pittsburgh. Humpal doesn’t look pretty…He just gets the job done.

Final Thoughts…At this time next year at least ten of you will own Humpal Jerseys…He is not flashy…He is just consistent…He also hits like a cement truck when he comes free. I expect Humpal to contribute on special teams in 08…He could replace Farrior in 09

Round 6

Ryan Mundy FS Woody High

If he makes the team I will be amazed.

Final Thoughts…See above

I would also like to take the time to welcome Perch to the staff.

Meet the rookie class for the 2008-09 Pittsburgh Steelers.  (provided by www.nfl.com)

HIT REFRESH (F5) OFTEN FOR THE NEWEST CONTENT

Check back here often for the Steelerfury.com live blog, featuring thoughts and comments from Hardnosed, FC, Iron_City and Perch.

2:56PM EST - Hardnosed

We're a few minutes away from the ceremonial crowing of Jake Long as the #1 pick. That's when things get interesting. Kansas City has 13 picks - if they want Matt Ryan, they might need to go up and get him. Rumor has it the Atlanta Falcons will select Ryan with the 3rd pick. Reality or smokescreen?

3:00PM EST - Hardnosed

Raja Goodell introduces the "new streamlined version" of the NFL Draft, to massive boos. Before walking the catwalk, Jake Long was standing with Merton Hanks, who is now a senior manager and assistant director of operations for the National Football League.

3:13PM EST - Hardnosed

Schefter is reporting that Matt Ryan is the Falcons' pick. If so, it's unlikely the Falcons would still want to trade into the bottom of the first round. It also increases the chances of Kansas City taking an offensive lineman with the 5th pick, which could start a run on lineman. This is a bad thing for the Steelers if they wanted a lineman - their best chance was for the Falcons to take Glenn Dorsey and for the Chiefs to snag Matt Ryan at #5.

3:25PM EST - FC

The Steelers trade down possibilities with the Falcons went down the toilet after the Falcons selected Matt Ryan. The Falcons better find some linemen to protect Ryan...They better find some recievers who can catch the ball. I am suprised by the pick...I expected Glenn Dorsey to be the pic.

3:27PM EST - FC

The Raiders select Darren Mcfadden...I'm not suprised. Al Davis likes the Home run...DMC can take it to the house any time he touches the ball. How far does Dorsey fall? Do the Saints trade up?

3:30PM EST - Hardnosed

Saints will be all over Dorsey. We'll see if Jammal Brown is involved - that could really help the Steelers as far as linemen being available.

Did anyone see Al Davis' brother working the phones for the Raiders?

3:38PM EST FC

Chiefs take Dorsey...BPA. I like the player...Hate the pick..The Chiefs need OL DE CB help. The Chiefs offense was anemic last season. I dont believe Brody Coyle is the answer at QB...Larry Johnson has a ton of miles on those legs. Dorsey has to be the second coming of Warren Sapp to be a value pick.

3:43PM EST Hardnosed

I'm happy to see Gholston NOT go to the Pats. There are questions as to how good he's really going to be because of his motor, but he's a freak who could have really helped the Patriots.

3:46PM EST FC

J -E- T - S had to take Gholston...Smart pick...Gholston will mature into a every down pass rushing demon. The only knock on Gholston coming into this draft was motor...He will take downs off. Mangini and his staff will get everything out of Gholston.

3:47PM EST Hardnosed

Patsies are on the clock. Some mocks had them taking a lineman here, and I just can't see that. The Pats are likely trying to trade down, or they'll sit tight and take a corner. I've got to believe this is too high for Keith Rivers or Jerod Mayo.

3:51PM EST FC

And we have a trade....Pioli is a mad man. He has something going every year. I believe the Saints will go with a Trojan...Sedric Ellis

3:53PM EST Hardnosed

The Ravens traded down, the whole way to 26. That's a long way to go. Jaguars will select Derrick Harvey. There are 15 picks until the Steelers' pick, and even Ryan Clady is still on the board. Things are looking good for the PS, but the run is coming. Will Albert or Otah survive?

3:54EST FC

Saints take Ellis. I give the Saints credit...They are trying to build a defense. Ravens trade down with the Jags...Derrick Harvey looks like the pick

3:57PM EST SteelPerch

The AFC North team weaknesses remain. The Bengals defense will not get a dominant DT as Ellis was taken 1 pick before them and the Ravens missed their franchise QB in Ryan. They only have a tradeable 2, 4, 5 since their 3rd is a comp pick, so they probably can't get back into round 1 for the #2 or 3 QB.

4:05EST Hardnosed

Bengals select Keith Rivers. Great pursuit guy, very athletic. However, he's not very physical. Rivers is Odell Thurman without the baggage. Still, it's a major plus that the Bengals got stuck with Rivers - visions of Glenn Dorsey were probably dancing in many a Bengals fan's head.

4:08EST FC

The Bengals pick Keith Rivers...Rivers is a typical Bungels defender. I am not fan of Rivers...He looks great in shorts...He doesnt play with enough nastiness for my taste. I have a feeling the Pats take Mckelvin or Albert

4:09PM Hardnosed

12 picks to go, and Clady, Albert, Otah and Williams are all on the board. There's still a strong chance that they're all gone. The next few picks after Buffalo will tell the story. I have to admit, it's great to be a little over an hour in and be done with 10 picks.

4:14PM FC

Thank God the Pats took Mayo...I have watched him play at Tenn...I was not a fan...He doesnt take on blocks well at all...He doesnt read and react at a high level. He maybe a star...I've been wrong before. I think Mayo is a bust...Not half the player Al Wilson was at Tenn

4:23PM FC

Broncos select Ryan Clady...Great zone blocking tackle for a zone blocking team...Perfect fit. I am fan of the player...2 years down the road he will be considered the best LT in this draft

4:25PM Hardnosed

I'm with FC about Clady - he will be a much better left tackle than Jake Long. Carolina takes Jon Stewart. Great pick for them, and it keeps the tackles on the board. Chicago, Chiefs, Texans and Eagles are the threats left at OL.

4:35PM Hardnosed

Wow, Chris Williams goes before Otah and Albert. If the Steelers want either one, they should make a move. Detroit at 15 wouldn't shock me as far as a trading partner is concerned. The nice thing is, there's going to be a run on CB's as well.

4:41PM Hardnosed

I'm not entirely sure why KC felt the need to trade up. I don't think the Cards were a big threat for Albert. Maybe someone was trying to move into the Cards' slot.

4:48PM FC The Chiefs select....Brendan Albert as soon as I heard the trade announced I knew Albert was gone. The Chiefs are off to a good start in this draft...Dorsey and Albert is a nice start to any draft. I expect the Cards to take Mendenhall

4:56PM Hardnosed

And the Steeler fans rejoiced. Gosder Cherilus is off the board. I have to say that I'm shocked he was taken that high. For the Steelers, it's a waiting game. Houston's biggest need is at left tackle as far as their line goes, so Otah likely doesn't figure in. Philadelphia is still a major threat, but they might be enticed by their choice of wideouts.

5:03PM Hardnosed

Joe Flacco is going to be a very nice, very immobile target for Steelers' pass rushers. Dan McGwire, anyone?

5:09PM Hardnosed

Otah is off the board. The Steelers CANNOT reach down their draft board for an offensive lineman. They've got to be honed in on another position - they could have moved up to 19 with a 3rd round pick if Otah was their man. A receiver would not surprise me in the least. Hopefully Henne and Brohm stick around - the Steelers might find a suitor.

5:28PM Hardnosed

Sam Baker at 21? And a 3rd and a 5th as well? Stubby, shoddy-kneed Baker?

5:45PM Hardnosed

What a courageous pick by Kevin Colbert. He thought outside the box and brought in a talent that was projected to go within the top 15th picks. Kemo and Starks will love blocking for this guy, and power football is coming back to Pittsburgh. For those knocking the pick, Mendenhall has the potential to be the best Steelers running back since Franco Harris. He is the total package of size and speed, and is a natural runner with the vision and instincts that Willie Parker lacks. Parker will be more effective now that Mendenhall is on the team.

6:07PM Hardnosed

Duane Brown is the initial first round shocker, going 26th overall to the Texans. No matter what you think of the Mendenhall pick, it definitely wasn't a reach. Brown at #26 is a reach. If the Steelers want even a 2nd tier tackle, they might have to trade up in the 2nd round.

6:33PM Hardnosed

The Miami Hurricane's string of 14 years with a first round pick continues, as Kenny Phillips goes with the last pick of the first round. Chad Henne is available for the Miami Tuna.

One of the only knocks on Rashard Mendenhall is the fact that he doesn't carry the ball securely. Kirby Wilson has some work ahead of him to cure Mendenhall of some bad habits while he's toting the ball.

7:32PM SteelPerch

Well I nailed the Donnie Avery in the early 2nd, but figured he'd be the 3rd or 4th WR by then. WOW he went early and the big WR's are still on the board!

We are 9 picks away from the Steelers pick, and if Cincy passes on Groves I think he'll be a Steeler.

8:15PM Hardnosed

Limas Sweed is a great pick in the 2nd round and once again a terrific value.  Sweed and Holmes will make it difficult for teams to bring the kitchen sink against Ben.  Throw in Ward and Miller and it's quite a receiving corps.  Of course, the OL remains a question mark.  However, the re-signing of Starks and the signing of Hartwig gave the Steelers a lot of flexibility.  It appears highly likely that Starks will open at RT and Colon will compete with Kemo to replace Faneca.

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

In 2007's version of this article, I made the following statement:

"For too long, Bill Cowher retained serviceable journeymen as backups instead of young, developmental players with future starter potential. That's a great philosophy for generating stability, but it's lousy for restocking a roster with players who can be developed into future starters."

A year later and the same problem exists. Maybe it's Kevin Colbert.

In free agency, the Steelers re-signed journeyman DE's Travis Kirschke and Nick Eason and signed two career backups (Mewelde Moore and Keyaron Fox) to moderate contracts to provide depth. Short-term fixes that block answers to longer-term problems.

To their credit, the Steelers did move decisively to upgrade the center position by adding Justin Hartwig.

Don't get me wrong, having veterans as depth helps greatly with continuity and consistency. The Patriots won their first Super Bowl with a gaggle of cheap veterans who could fill a role with aptitude. However, the Patriots dismantled that blueprint as quickly as possible once their drafts began to bear fruit. Today, the Patriots have a solid, draft-built core that freed the payroll for high-wattage additions in free agency.

With only 6 picks and a rare zero compensatory selections, the Steelers don't have a lot of ammunition in 2008. Because they've stocked the roster with cheap FA's, there aren't a lot of holes when looking at the roster numerically. However, they've got a lot of work to do next offseason. Nate Washington, Marvel Smith, Chris Kemoeatu, Max Starks, Trai Essex, James Farrior and Bryant McFadden will all be free agents. A few of those guys will get new deals, but the 2008 Draft can help with the preparations for another difficult offseason.

For this reason, the Steelers' 2008 first round pick could come at any number of positions, with an eye towards filling a future need. The Steelers could construct a respectable roster for 2008 with the players they have under contract right now.

The same cannot be said for 2009, and with that in mind I give you my 2008 Steelers' draft board for the first round.

Jeff Otah
Why They Would Take Him
He has more raw ability than any other tackle in this class, including Jake Long. He has a chance to be dominant at a variety of positions, possibly even left tackle. Plays with a mean streak and finishes his man. Otah probably hasn't played his best football yet - he didn't start playing football until he was a senior in high school and only has two years' experience at the division one level.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
He's unlikely to be on the board when they pick. Otah will be intriguing to both Carolina and Chicago well before the Steelers make their pick. The same aforementioned lack of experience means that he's raw and has some bust potential. His weight and fitness may become problems down the road. The Steelers appear set at right tackle, and that's Otah's most likely position.

Branden Albert
Why They Would Take Him
He's the prototype at left guard, the perfect choice to replace perennial All-Pro Alan Faneca. He can replace Faneca's ability to pull, and might be a better pass protector than Faneca right out of the box with his long arms and natural athleticism. An ability to transition to left tackle in the future only increases his value.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
Will Albert be available as we all believed a month ago, or does the current Internet hype reflect real world interest? I have a hard time believing that Albert will be drafted in the top ten, but it would be surprising if he's still on the board at 23. Albert is a little raw at guard, let alone tackle, and still needs some coaching.

Gosder Cherilus
Why They Would Take Him
To increase traffic on Internet message boards. Cherilus is a solid right tackle prospect and a guy with a lot of tape to grade in a tough conference. He has extremely long arms and huge hands, and should be a solid run blocker right out of the gate. His pure size makes him tough to run around.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
Right tackle is not a major need. Cherilus is slow and sometimes oafish. Pass protection is not his forte, as evidenced by his less than impressive stint at left tackle as a senior. He does not project at another line position.

Mike Jenkins
Why They Would Take Him
Can blanket receivers and gets his hands on a lot of balls. Is a natural athlete with great change of direction skills and a lot of upside athletically. Has long arms and a solid build. Jenkins fits into a variety of coverage schemes. Bryant McFadden is a free agent after this season, and Deshea Townsend is old.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
He could be gone as early as the 7th pick, as there are 4 or 5 corners who will be slotted differently by each team. While he breaks up a lot of passes, he doesn't have a lot of picks to his credit, only 6 in 53 collegiate games. Jenkins isn't the most physical player, and can be hesitant in run support. The Steelers have traditionally favored taller corners.

Aqib Talib
Why They Would Take Him
Has the size the Steelers covet, though he's not as physical as his size would suggest. At 6'1", he can turn and run with most receivers. Had a great combine and proved to be a better athlete than expected. Can play man or zone and has great ball skills.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
Carries a lot of off-field baggage. Despite great size and measurables, Talib was far from a shutdown corner in college. Jordy Nelson's abuse gets more press, but Maurice Purify of Nebraska destroyed him head-to-head as well. Thinks he's a lot better than he is, and likes to talk about it.

Malcolm Kelly
Why They Would Take Him
A great all-around football player. Runs nice routes, snatches the ball with his hands, makes blocks in the running game and scores big touchdowns. Has the potential to replace Hines Ward as the flanker, bringing better physical tools than Ward with the same kind of football intelligence.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
Kelly shouldn't have bothered working out at all this draft season ala Lendale White - his stock would be higher right now. While his slow times at his Oklahoma pro day present a problem, most of the talk has centered on his immature reaction to them. Kelly has typically been a stand up guy, but he's raised a lot of questions as far as loyalty and professionalism.

Limas Sweed
Why They Would Take Him
Sweed offers a unique blend of size and athleticism. Has long arms and big hands and catches the ball very naturally when he's focused. Will fight for balls and should be a terrific red zone threat in the right system. With improved durability and more coaching, Sweed could be a legitimate #1 receiver in the NFL.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
Many observers feel that Sweed should have dominated college football, and instead he mostly flashed his potential. Despite having soft hands, he dropped many catchable balls during his Texas career. He's a bit of a long strider who might have problems separating like Malcolm Kelly, but he's not the route runner that Kelly is, and he's no where near as fearless across the middle. Sweed probably belongs at Santonio Holmes' split end position in the Steelers offense.

Quentin Groves
Why They Would Take Him
In last year's version of this article, I mentioned in Lawrence Timmons' blurb that "Mike Tomlin is a fan." Well, the same applies to Groves. Groves is an athletic freak who projects perfectly as an impact player at ROLB. Incumbent (and Steelers MVP) James Harrison is getting older, and his domestic issues this offseason left egg on the Rooney family's face. The Giants won a Super Bowl by collecting gifted pass rushers.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
Had a poor senior season after dislocating three toes. Recently had heart surgery. His work ethic and motor have been questioned, and he'll need some technique work after getting by mostly on athleticism. OLB isn't an immediate need that requires a first round pick, though some depth behind the top three is required.

Jonathan Stewart
Why They Would Take Him
Has all the tools to be a Pro Bowl running back, a workhorse around whom an offense can be built. Has stunning athleticism at superior size. Is a natural running back with vision and instincts who can also catch and block. The Steelers won a Super Bowl with a two-running back attack, and the Steelers currently lack a physical back who can salt away games on the ground.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
There's a good chance that Stewart will be off the board when the Steelers pick. Willie Parker was leading the NFL in rushing when he broke his leg last year, and running back depth was improved with the offseason acquisition of Mewelde Moore.

Kentwan Balmer
Why They Would Take Him
Balmer is a big, stout guy who could play 2 gap DE for the Steelers. When Aaron Smith went down last year, the run defense suffered. When motivated, he's strong at the point of attack and offers above-average pursuit for a guy his size.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
His "one big year" as a senior simply wasn't that impressive. Will never be a quality pass rusher. Might not have the tenacity to play 2 gap day in, day out. Classic underachiever. The Steelers traditionally don't take 34 defensive ends in the 1st round.

Phillip Merling
Why They Would Take Him
Shares some qualities with Richard Seymour. Is tall with long arms and some growth potential. Plays hard all the time and with great technique. Possesses a variety of pass rush moves, and knows how to use them. Would offer a lot of help in sub packages right away, and would grow into a starting position in a year or two.

Why They Wouldn't Take Him
The only reason Merling might be available is because he hasn't worked out this offseason because of a sports hernia, but the injury should not affect his availability for minicamps, let alone next season. I expect Merling to be long gone at #23. Merling would be a projection at 34 DE, which is always a risk when dealing with first round picks.

Having catalogued my life by the ups and downs of the Pittsburgh Steelers Football Club, and having surpassed the half century mark in age, I endeavored to author a memoir of my life as a fan.  This perhaps would be suited for a time capsule for my children, or alternatively as a project for a publisher whose business was really, really slow. 

For the past few years, I’ve written a number of articles, under the screen name, Swissvale72 for a few Pittsburgh Steelers related websites, most notably, and of longest duration, was an association with Stillers.com, prior to my falling into disfavor with management. 

This manifesto had its beginnings during my weeks of teeth-gnashing after the Steelers lost to the Jacksonville Jagoffs (er…Jaguars) in the 2007 NFL Playoffs, whereupon I compiled page upon page of cathartic scribblings.  I had just started to “let it go” when the NFL admitted they had erred in a late non-call in that game which would have brought the Steelers victory.  Had that happened, they would have surely gone onto their 6^th Super Bowl title, and I would still be dancing in the streets of New England, “behind enemy lines,” where I’ve resided for over half my life. 

The greater part of this manuscript however, was written amid the pastoral beauty of Prince Edward Island in the Canadian Maritimes, where I’ve been fortunate enough to own a cottage on the Gulf of St. Lawrence since 2001.  Of course, this ownership was made possible by the US Dollar having been worth over $1.50 CAD at the time.  There’s no way on God’s green earth that this would have been possible now, what with the Loony outpacing the Dollar in today’s moribund economy. 

As you might have guessed, I’m given to digressions, and this rambling will be no exception.  I ventured to my PEI seaside paradise, a veritable writer’s haven, in March, 2008 intent on writing not only this piece, but also a work-related project, as well as starting on a long overdue diet.  Toward this end, I brought all of my sustenance along with me; two bags of Tostitos, four cans of tuna, and a case of beer.  One should note that since I was traveling to Canada, I brought Labatt’s Blue, brewed in Canada, and sold there for $18 a 12-pack.  It’s imported to the US, where in New Hampshire, the Live Free or Die State, I can buy this import for $8 a 12-pack, and carry it back over the border.  Nifty, eh?  My favorite beer is actually a New Hampshire product, Smuttynose Pale Ale, but at $14 a 12-pack, was too rich for my blood presently.   

Enough of this preamble; on to the story. *

From “The Steelers Polka” by Jimmy Psihoulis 

JANUARY, 2008

It is the winter of my Steelers Discontent.  The Black & Gold have been dispatched from the playoffs at their earliest juncture in 14 years, victimized by their rookie head coach playing “not to lose” with a 1-point lead and 3 minutes remaining…and losing.  This abrupt exit generates the most excruciating of fates, needing to suffer through three more football weekends absent my team.   When January comes up on the calendar, the goal as a Steelers fan is to live to fight another day, play another game, extend the season.  The Steelers season ends, and days are darker, winter is colder, life is simply less happy.  

Thus, left with a football team prematurely eliminated, and a writing addiction unfed, I’ve sat down with my lone resources, the 2007 Pittsburgh Steelers Media Guide, and a memory completely unfiltered of all things Steelers, to begin my story..............................

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This is an excerpt from My life as a Pittsburgh Steelers Fan written by Swissvale72 and he asked me to post it and I agreed.  The link below will take to the full document (70 pages) to read at your pleasure.  A great deal of effort and memory went into this piece and we thank Swiss for sharing and taking the time to put his experiences on paper to share with other fans.  Enjoy!

http://members.cox.net/steelerfury/Wer efromthetown.pdf

As we approach the draft, I wanted to do something a little different and get an outsiders point of view  about some draft philosophies and prospects with respect to the Pittsburgh Steelers. One draft site I like to look at and sort through mock drafts and analysis is www.walterfootball.com. There are thousands of sites out there, but theres alot of stuff on this one I tend to agree with and and I like the '09 projections as well. The site creator of www.walterfootball.com , Walter Cherepinsky, was kind enough to give an exclusive draft interview to SteelerFury. For any self proclaimed draftnik, www.walterfootball.com is definately a site you should bookmark for analysis and mock drafts. I'd like to thank Mr. Cherepinsky in advance for taking the time out of his schedule to answer a few questions I asked of him.  So please take the time to look through Mr. Cherepinsky's website at your leisure.

On with the Show

1. Can you tell us a little bit about the background of you and your draft website and the time and research that goes into it and what makes your product unique?

WC -I started my Web site back in 1999 as a project for an internet class. I graduated that spring, but kept maintaining the site as a hobby. Eventually, I changed my major at Penn State to sports journalism, and decided to use the site as a resume-builder. Eventually, I thought I could do this as a full-time gig, and that's what I'm doing now in addition to a few other things. Something that makes my site unique is that I'm more than just a draft site; I have weekly picks against the spread, power rankings and weekly write-ups during the season, fantasy football information in the summer, detailed free agency lists and trackers, and I even delve into college basketball, NBA and MLB

2. Jumping right into the draft, most Steeler fans recognize our need to reload the offensive line. Some fan favorites are guard Brandon Albert from Virginia and local kid Jeff Otah from Pitt. Can you tell us a little bit about these 2 guys and if you feel they'll be available at pick #23?

WC - In one of my recent mocks, I had the Steelers going after Branden Albert, but in the wake of the Justin Hartwig signing, which kicks Sean Mahan out to guard, the Steelers will likely look elsewhere in the first round. I had Jeff Otah before, but his stock has soared (I have him going 14th to the Bears right now). So, while Albert should be there, Otah won't be. Albert has everything you want in a guard; he's big, but he's also athletic. He has really long arms, so he won't suffer from Robert Gallery Syndrome. He's extremely quick for a man his size, and there is speculation that he could play tackle in the NFL.

3. Continuing with that thought, can you give us some insight on the depths and strengths of this offensive line class in the first 3 rounds and which direction do you see the Steelers going?

WC - Gosder Cherilus is an option in the first round. If they go after a receiver instead, like Malcolm Kelly, they might have a chance of landing Carl Nicks in the second round. Nicks has first-round talent, but his recent legal troubles have dropped his stock just a bit. I don't consider his issues anything major, but teams may overreact, making him a huge steal toward the end of Round 2. If Pittsburgh passes on him, the team could go after Heath Benedict, Tony Hills or even Barry Richardson in Rounds 3-4.

4. Its a well known fact that Coach Tomlin found his niche and earned his pedigree as a DB coach. Taking future expiring contracts into consideration, what kind of quality CB's can we expect to be available in the mid rounds that would be a good fit for Steeler football?

WC - This class is really deep at defensive back. The Steelers should be able to acquire guys in the middle rounds like Trae Williams, DeJuan Tribble, Dwight Lowery, Chevis Jackson, Simeon Castille and Marcus Griffin, all of whom would be solid fits in Mike Tomlin's scheme.

5. The Steelers starting defensive line starters are all entering the later stages of their careers and are all over 30, so it may be time to think about getting younger. Couple that with the Steelers sack production being down last year, can you talk a little about any quality 5 technique DE's that may be available in the mid to late rounds.

WC - Two five-technique guys you might be able to get in the middle rounds are Keilen Dykes and Kendall Langford. Dykes will be available a bit later than Langford because he had a mediocre Pro Day (he wasn't invite to the combine), but I still think he'll be a solid player up front in the 3-4

6. Another area that could use an overhaul are the special teams. What prospects do you feel could come in and make an immediate impact the coverage and return games?

WC - The guy everyone knows about is Corey Lynch, the Appalachian State safety who blocked the Michigan field goal in the upset. His teammate, Dexter Jackson, ran a 4.33 at the combine and will be a solid punt returner in the NFL. Then, you have the obvious guys like DeSean Jackson, Eddie Royal, Donnie Avery and the like.

7. Now that the combine is over, who would you consider combine "winners" and "losers"?

WC - We're in the Pro Day part of the schedule now, so I have a link for some of the guys who have improved or worsened their stock in the wake of their Pro Day: http://walterfootball.com/draftproday.php 

Sorted by position, here are my post-combine value charts for defensive positions. Players are ordered alphabetically by name in each round, not according to how I would rank them in that round. Further, these should not be treated as hard and fast predictions, but as general slotting among positions.

Sorted by position, here are my post-combine value charts. Players are ordered alphabetically by name in each round, not according to how I would rank them in that round. Further, these should not be treated as hard and fast predictions, but as general slotting among positions. Comparison at individual positions is possible at this stage, but comparing value across the draft (i.e., how does the 9th rated DE compare to the 7th rated DT) to make predictions is akin to trying to guess which Cincinnati Bengal will get arrested next, and I won't claim to be able to do so, especially through seven rounds. Moral of the story is, use these charts to aid in assembling your mock draft or for participating in one of the upcoming SteelerFury mock drafts (first one is tomorrow night - sign up in the forums now!), but don't bet your cousin a Corvette that Mike McGlynn is going in the 5th round based on my rankings.

Defensive player values are coming soon.

Farewell to Myron Cope.

Pittsburgh legend Myron Cope passed away today in Mt Lebo, PA after a long period of health problems.  The long time Steelers announcer and sportswriter become a figure as large as many of the players.  Myron was a favorite of mine and his sayings, nicknames, humor and mannerisms will be missed.  Myron will best be remembered for creating the “Terrible Towel” in 1975 for use in the playoffs.  The towel was nothing special but prior to the game against the Baltimore Colts, Cope urged everyone to bring a yellow towel to the game to wave.  He didn’t want people to have to buy anything new so he figured most people would have a yellow dish towel handy.  Cope will also be known as coining the most famous play in pro-football the “Immaculate Reception.”  Myron officially retired from announcing Steelers games in 2005.

Most associated Myron as a radio man but he got his start in sports as a journalist and freelanced for Sports Illustrated and wrote for the Saturday Evening Post.  Sports Illustrated honored Cope in the publication's 50^th Anniversary issue for writing a piece about Howard Cosell and considered his article one of the best published by SI.  Myron has also written a few books, most recently Double Yoi.  Myron Cope is also the only football commentator to be inducted to the National Radio Hall of Fame and recieved an award from the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  

Myron is a true Pittsburgh icon.  Okel-dokel   

The Combine.

The 2008 NFL Draft Combine is complete.  I’m not a draft junkie like some others around here but this site has been producing quality draft and player analysis since the start of last season.  Hardnosed, FC and I_C have been running herd with the help of a lot of posters that love this draft stuff.  There could be an opportunity opening up next season that would have these junkies act like they just received free season tickets and a personal seat license….Fans allowed at the Combine.  The Combine is a closely held event.  Owners, coaches and some team personnel have full access to the workouts but typically reporters and media are sequestered to a room and they don’t get to see the potential draftees’ workout.  They get their stats after they occur.  ESPN is reporting that next season, the Combine is moving from the RCA Dome to the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis and there is potential that the NFL may sell tickets for fans to attend.  Start saving now junkies, you can bet the NFL will squeeze your wallets for this one.  Perhaps some of the revenue generated by SteelerFury.Com can help send our writers there for coverage.

The Steelers and Free Agency. 

As decided upon and compiled by Hardnosed, FC and Iron_City, here is the third installment in our draft series.

Fred Davis - USC - 6025 - 250 - 3302 - 904

Bio: Was originally recruited to USC as a wide receiver. He bulked up to play TE not because he really had room to get bigger, but simply because he wasn't fast enough. Wasn't allowed to travel to the Orange Bowl in 2005 because of repeated violations of team rules. Got his act together in 2006, and had very solid seasons as a Junior and Senior.

Outlook: He arrived at USC as a 5 star WR prospect before bulking up to play TE. He's struggled to get movement but has shown to be a very willing blocker and could thrive in a west coast system and may be the only TE to crack the first round by ending up going to the Seattle Seahawks at pick #25 NFL Comparison: Tony Gonzalez

Positives: Very skilled Tight end. Runs clean sharp routes. Very good hands...Davis is a Threat after the catch. Reminds me of Tony Gonzales of the Chiefs.

Negatives: Davis is not a great blocker...Its a stretch to say Davis is a willing blocker. Davis is a blown up Wr playing TE...He doesnt have a huge body or great timed speed.

Marcellus Bennett - Texas A & M - 6070 - 253

Bio: Was a top ten recruit coming out of high school, and also played basketball for Texas A & M as a freshman and sophomore. At 6'7", he averaged 23 points and 9 boards a game as a senior in high school. Was a Mackey Award finalist as a junior.

Outlook: Exceptional hands and route running ability will allow him to work linebackers up the seam and crossing patterns and could be a nice addition clearing the middle of the field for Steve Smith in Carolina in round 3. NFL Comparison: Marcedes Lewis

Positives: Very long lean target with very long arms. He must add at least 10 pounds before he can be an every down NFL Tight End. He is pure upside...Great route runner...Super athleticism...Great Hands..He will time well. Bennett blocking is better then expected.

Negatives: Bennett is a 6-6 235 pound Tight End...He wont block anyone in the NFl at that size...He must get bigger or run fast enough to play Wr.

John Carlson - Notre Dame - 6060 - 259

Bio: Another dual sport athlete, he played for the Fighting Irish basketball team as a freshman. Was also an all-conference tennis player in high school. Started 28 games at Notre Dame during his college career and was an Academic All-American.

Outlook: A quality athelte whose production suffered in a poor Notre Dame system. He brings his lunchpail to work daily and his size could make him a nice red zone target for a team like the Cincinnatti Bengals in round 3. NFL Comparison: Heath Miller

Positives: Classic Tight End...He does nothing great...He is a quality receiver and blocker...He is a blue collar dependable player.

Negatives: Combine will make or break Carlson. Carlson may not be a NFL athlete..He compares favorably to Anthony Fasano of the Cowboys.

Jermichael Finley - 6050 - 240

Bio: Came to Texas as a 220 pound WR/TE hybrid but is leaving as a 245 pounder who has shown some toughness in the running game. Was also a standout basketball player in high school. Was a productive starter his final two seasons at Texas.

Outlook: A tireless worker with a very high ceiling and a very good red zone threat. Explodes in and out of his breaks and is a mismatch for LB's. But like most of the rest of his TE class, is limited in the run game but could emerge as a threat on day 2 to a team like the New Orleans Saints. NFL Comparison: Todd Heap

Positives: Finley is a tall athletic target with great speed. Finley is a tireless worker and could easily be the best TE in this class...He is a huge mismatch in the passing game.

Negatives: Finley needs to add some weight to play every down in the NFl.

Martin Rucker - Missouri - 6046 - 248 - 3401 - 900

Bio: Is the younger brother of longtime Panthers DE Mike Rucker. His father is a member of the Missouri House of Representatives. A three year starter and a first team All American as a senior. Like seemingly every TE prospect, he was a star basketball player in high school.

Outlook: A nice receiving threat that was very productive in college setting a school record with 84 catches. Has shown to be limited in route running and body control but could emerge as a quality TE2 in a vertical passing offense but wont be selected until day 2 to a team like the Detroit Lions NFL Comparison: Jeremy Stevens

Positives: Another classic Tight End...Rucker is a quality receiver he runs quality routes...Has dependable hands.

Negatives: Rucker is not a polished blocker...He needs alot of work...He is NFL ready in the passing game.

Kellen Davis - Michigan State - 6062 - 259 - 3302 - 900

Bio: Also played defensive end for the Spartans as a senior, helping to replace Jonal Saint-Dic when he was suspended for the Champs Sports Bowl. Was suspended because of aggravated assault allegations as a junior.

Outlook: A good looking athlete that definately passes the eyeball test with big hands and good ups. Under utilized playing inside Devin Thomas but emerged as a good run blocker in a rush offense that produced almost 200 yds/game. Very raw and may need sit and learn his craft for a year but will be a nice day 2 project for a team like the Tennessee Titans NFL Comparison: Kellen Winslow

Positives: Huge athlete...Is a far better blocker then most expect. He will test off the charts at the combine. He has NFL ability and potential.

Negatives: Davis is a one year wonder...He was awful as a JR. Davis could be a decent college player who becomes a great NFL pro.

Brad Cottam - Tennessee - 6075 - 271 - 3400 - 904

Bio: After sitting early in his career, made 6 starts as a junior and only 5 as a senior after breaking his wrist. Also was a standout high school basketball player. Academic All-American. When it comes right down to it, Cottam only caught 21 passes during his college career.

Outlook: A big lumbering TE that is like having a 3rd tackle on the field. Can be dominating in a run first system that can also sneak to the corner in the red zone after releasing from a block. Could be a late round steal to a power run team like the Jacksonville Jaguars late on day 2 NFL Comparison: Matt Spaeth

Positives: The big ugly of the bunch. Best run blocking Tight end I have seen since Jason Peters played at Arkansas. He can get movement on Defensive ends in the run game. Cottam has quality hands.

Negatives: He is not the best route runner and not a huge threat in the passing game...He is slow and plodding.