Browns Blog

Is it worth it?

Through the first five of 12 practices, the Browns have lost offensive lineman Ryan Tucker until probably August with hip injury that required surgery and cornerback Daven Holly for the season with a knee injury. The injury to Holly is particularly damaging because of lack of depth and inexperience on the corners.

OTAs were never heard of until recent years. Coaches wanting to have more on-field practices than the three-day minicamp were granted 12 extra practices that are spread out over a four-week period. Practices are conducted without pads and minus contact, which is supposed to help avoid serious injuries.

The best of plans don't always go as planned. Four years ago then rookie safety Sean Jones tore knee ligaments during one of the Browns' final OTA practices. He missed the entire 2004 season but was able to return and develop into one of the NFL's best strong safeties.

Why coaches need OTAs is hard to figure, other than to ease their paranoia. Every coach thinks other coaches are doing something to get an edge during the offseason. By setting up the OTA system, the NFL is trying to make sure that every coach gets in enough practice time to keep them happy.

The reality of the situation is that the practices are basically usless. They're only important to first-year coaches that are installing entirely new offensive and defensive systems.

Coaches should be able to get in enough practice time during six weeks of training camp to prepare players for the regular season. The OTAs are simply more chances for players to get hurt, which the Browns have found out more than once.

Players basically need about four weeks of training camp. The longer the drudgery of camp is prolonged, the sooner bodies begin to wear down during the season.

Maybe the NFL should re-consider the OTA concept. Just ask Daven Holly.

Share:

Facebook  MySpace  Digg  Stumble    Mixx  Fark  del.icio.us   LiveSpaces

 

Member Comments

View Comments: | Post a comment

No comments posted for this article.

You must first login before you can comment.

Existing Member Login
Not a Member?	Create a Member Account
*Your email address:		<--Email REQUIRED!
*Password:	Forgot Password?	<--Password REQUIRED!
	Remember my email address.