LJ as Steeler?

[Makaveli]

I know this is most assuredly a longshot given our (Steelers) "frugal" nature. As well as given what Mike Tomlin feels defines a quality player. (Vastly overated and or injury prone guys with "upside")
But the thought of us making a play for Larry Johnson is one that i find most intruiging. I feel he could not only return the the physicality to our ground game, but give us the "Bussy in his prime" big play threat. (Brutal long runs)

I think that he and Willie sharing the backfield would take a great deal of pressure off of our inconsistent passing game. And keep the guys on the defensive side of the ball at an optimum performance level because of the "rest".

Yes it's argued that he (LJ) is a "problem child". But was not the same said about Bussy prior to us having the vision and guts to aquire him from the Rams ?

[fansince'76]

LJ isn't injury prone? And which players do we cut (yes, that's playerS plural, because it's going to take more than one) to fit his massive salary under the cap? What do we give up to get him? (I have a feeling the Chiefs will want plenty because he is their franchise player)

[hizmi]

I'd take him in a flash, but fansince is right...the cost is just too high.

[SteelMember]

I think they have already made the play/pay for the RB of the future...

Unfortunately he is on the IR list.

Get Well Mendy!!

[lamberts-lost-tooth]

Originally Posted by Makaveli

But was not the same said about Bussy prior to us having the vision and guts to aquire him from the Rams ?

Granted its been 12 years...but I think the whole Bettis being a "problem" is revisionist history..and rather up for debate.

If I remember correctly...Rich Brooks decided that Bettis did not fit his offensive style.

Bettis, who had made two pro-bowls, wanted a new deal...but Brooks didnt want to pay him any more than the original rookie contract...(no different than most successfull third year players)

Brooks publicly said he wanted more speed at the position and drafted Lawrence Phillips ......and traded the Bus to the Steelers.

[STEELtownHAVOX]

don't need him.

[LVSteelersfan]

LJ is done. Don't need overpaid injury prone players who eat up the cap space and bring in the head case.

[Edman]

Signing LJ will be the dumbest move in Steelers history. At least Bettis was relatively young when he came to Pittsburgh. LJ has baggage, tons of mileage, and no longer has the burst he had. Oh yeah, and he's expensive. Besides, what makes you think he'll come to Pittsburgh with a reduced salary and a reduced role?

Say no to Larry Johnson.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Originally Posted by lamberts-lost-tooth

Granted its been 12 years...but I think the whole Bettis being a "problem" is revisionist history..and rather up for debate.

If I remember correctly...Rich Brooks decided that Bettis did not fit his offensive style.

Bettis, who had made two pro-bowls, wanted a new deal...but Brooks didnt want to pay him any more than the original rookie contract...(no different than most successfull third year players)

Brooks publicly said he wanted more speed at the position and drafted Lawrence Phillips ......and traded the Bus to the Steelers.

Exactly. The Rams said Bettis was a FB and would not be a feature back in their offense. Not exactly a "problem".

Johnson will be 29 years old next month. Dont want to start paying too much for a RB that is almost 30. The last time I remember that happening was the Seahawks backing up the Brinks truck for Shaun Alexander.

[steelreserve]

If we could get him for cheap, and only for a year or two, and he played like he did before his injuries, he would be a huge help. Unfortunately, I just don't see any of that happening.