From: mocnik@iccgcc.decnet.ab.com
Newsgroups: rec.sport.football.pro
Subject: Browns News - Aug 28th
Date: 28 Aug 92 09:29:31 EST

Browns News - August 28th
--------------------------

I wasn't going to post until next week, but a few changes have occurred
which I feel need mentioning. Sorry for being long-winded, but
I like to get out as much info as I can. 


Aruhmmmmm (clearing my throat!!!)


1. It looks like the Browns will be getting their much-needed center.
   Jay Hilgenberg of the Bears will become a Brown, if 2 things happen:
 
    #1 - Jay passes his physical, which is to be given TODAY.

    #2 - The Bears and the Browns can agree on the draft choices and/or
         players which the Bears will receive.

  The physical should not be a problem, but what the Browns must give up
  may become a problem. There has been much speculation as to who or
  what will be given. Some of the rumors are:

    - a #2 or a #3 Draft choice next year

    - A #3 and Eric Metcalf.

    - Eric Metcalf and a lower Round draft choice.

  Art Modell said as he announced the talks with the Bears for Hilgenberg,
  ONLY draft choices were involved in the deal. Last night though 
  much speculation that Eric Metcalf was also included in the trade, began
  to be heard on the local talk shows. It was mentioned that Eric has been
  sought after by the Bears, since they need a kick returner. Remember Eric
  is also a holdout free agent and must be signed by the Browns before he
  can be traded. There has been NO announcement that Eric is signed.
  It is hoped that the trade will be completed no later than tomorrow.


  A little background:  {The scenario that follows is my interpretation
                         from radio interviews with Chicago and Cleveland
                         media people. I only listened to the interviews.}
  Jay Hilgenberg is a 7-time all pro center. He is 32 and has only missed a
  few games in his career. He wanted to be the highest paid lineman in 
  football. Jim Lachey of the Redskins just signed for $1.3 M. The Bears were 
  only willing to go up $850 K, Jay wanted more. The Browns were desparate for a
  center and talked to the Bears about Jay. Talks with the Bears started BEFORE
  Monday nights performance. After the performance Monday, talks intensified.
  The Browns were allowed by the Bears to offer Jay a contract. Jay decided to 
  accept the Browns offer. The only problem at this point being what
  compensation would the Bears receive. This is where we are at now. I think.
  The contract is a 2-year deal, calling for $1 M the first, and $1.2 M the 
  second year. 

  I hear the people in Chicago are mad at the Bears about this deal. They
  are very upset with McCasky, Bears GM. They are mad that the Bears were 
  unwilling to offer more money, and are also upset at the rumored
  compensation. I don't blame them. We, in Cleveland, have felt this before:
  ( Mike Baab's trade w/ Patriots a few years ago, Ernest Byner trade,
    Greg Pruitt trade to the Raiders, I could go on....)

  My comments:
          I think the Browns pushed the panic button after the 56-3 loss, and
          Art Modell said, "Do whatever you can to improve this team. NOW!!!"
          He did not want to see any "JUMP ART" signs at the stadium.
          The Browns decided that Chris Thome would take a longer time to
          develop. So the Browns went shopping. Jay Hilgenberg, I feel, was
          one of many possibilities. 
          I applaud this move. A proven center with Jay's credentials will 
          help this offense IMMENSELY. 

2. The Browns signed 2 players:
   - John Brown III, WR, who was released by the Bears. John was a 7th round
     draft choice in this years draft. He went to the University of Houston.

   - Wayne Haddix, CB, who was released by the Bengals. He previously had 
     played under Belichick in New York.

    The roster must be trimmed to 47 next Tuesday.

3. Tonight the Browns play at Tampa versus the Bucaneers. It will be interesting
   to see how this team reacts after Monday Night. Most of the regulars are
   scheduled to play the 1st half.

4. Patrick Rowe, WR, had surgery yesterday on his knee to repair the ligaments.
   He is out for the year. He got injured returning a kickoff in Monday's
   game.

5. Michael Dean Perry took part in yesterday's walk thru. He had been running
   without much trouble. He is scheduled to practice next week and be ready
   for the Indy game. Also Leroy Hoard is on schedule to play next week.
   Kevin Mack's calf may keep him out of tonights game.


See you next week!!!!

Don Mocnik


NOTE: the go Browns which used to reside here will remain missing until this
      team shows they deserve it. Hopefully tonight.
Newsgroups: rec.sport.football.pro