Jamal Lewis shows good vision
The running backs continue to stay put. On the heels of Justin Fargas and Travis Henry staying with their teams, Jamal Lewis has decided to re-up with the Browns.
In a deep year for backs in the draft, it made sense for Lewis to re-sign. Cleveland's offensive line will make Lewis look like a better player than he really is, just like Derek Anderson. He wasn't going to get a huge deal elsewhere.
Lewis' transformation in 2007 was shocking after his down years with Baltimore. While his linemen deserve a lot of credit, Lewis was fifth in the NFL in plays over ten yards, showing surprising burst in the open field. He also was the sixth-toughest player to stop for no gain.
This deal makes a lot more sense for Lewis than the Browns. Cleveland should be wary of Lewis regressing and would be wise to find a young backup, ideally one that can excel on third downs. Lewis is only turning 29, but he's an old 29 with 2,100 career carries.
Fantasy leaguers should also temper their expectations. Lewis is a solid second running back, but Cleveland's schedule is going to be brutal and some decline from Lewis can be expected.
The happiest runner other than Lewis Thursday has to be impending free agent Michael Turner. He's now the clear top back on the market, and should get a big deal from a team like the Falcons.
Comments
"Browns offensive line will make Lewis look like a better player than he really is" Are you kidding me? So I guess in 2003 when he ran for over 2,000 yards, that was a fluke?
Posted by: Stuart M | February 22, 2008 09:32 AM
"Browns offensive line will make Lewis look like a better player than he really is" Are you kidding me? So I guess in 2003 when he ran for over 2,000 yards, that was a fluke?
Posted by: Stuart M | February 22, 2008 09:32 AM
that was four years ago!!
Posted by: scott c | February 22, 2008 01:02 PM
Oh so he was good 4 years ago, and now its the O-line that makes him look good? Hes been a dominating back ever since hes been in the league
Posted by: Stuart | February 22, 2008 03:13 PM
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