Kruger Deactivated Again

[Stevo5278]

It's obvious to all of us that the Ravens need to improve their pass rush. It seems to me that the most obvious way to do that would be to activate Paul Kruger and deactivate one of the special teams only guys (Parmele, Lawrence, Burgess).

Preston noted that Suggs appeared out of shape out there yesterday with the heat and humidity. Maybe a side effect of sitting out training camp? Kruger went through the full camp and played almost every snap of every preseason game. There's no reason why he should be inactive on gameday. I thought the whole point of drafting him was to have him and Suggs providing pressure from both sides on 3rd down?

[McLovin]

Well, if he can't play special teams, they aren't going to activate him. He needs to be able to do more than one thing.

[ChrisP]

Is there something else going on? How often is a 2nd round pick deactivated? I know the Ravens are deep, but still...

[Sports Guy]

Well, if he can't play special teams, they aren't going to activate him. He needs to be able to do more than one thing.

Well when the one thing is the biggest need on the team right now, he needs to be in there.

[McLovin]

Well when the one thing is the biggest need on the team right now, he needs to be in there.
Eh, I'm more of the opinion that Suggs and Pryce need to just do their jobs. Suggs disappeared after a fast start.

[Sports Guy]

Eh, I'm more of the opinion that Suggs and Pryce need to just do their jobs. Suggs disappeared after a fast start.

Yea but when they are getting double teamed, brought out into coverage, etc....you need more help.

Just relying on a few guys is poor.

[ccbird]

Kruger had a solid preseason and the Ravens know what he brings to the table. There has to be a reason why he is inactive. Either he isn't going to get in on the 3rd down packages or there is something else going on behind the scenes.

[Sports Guy]

He is inactive again today.

[Oriolesfan1988]

He is inactive again today.

John Harbaugh said on his radio show he is not ready to contribute to the team yet. That when he is he will be activated. Impression I got that will be later this season sooner then later though what he said.

[Tony-OH]

So far, I hate to say it, but this guy looks like a bust. Sorry, but 2nd rounders should be able to make the active roster. I trust the Raven's judgement so if they say he's not ready, he's not.

[Waryn]

So far, I hate to say it, but this guy looks like a bust. Sorry, but 2nd rounders should be able to make the active roster. I trust the Raven's judgement so if they say he's not ready, he's not.

This is way too soon. He hasn't even played a meaningful snap of football yet.

To put this into prospective, BJ Raji (Green Bay's 1st) played his first game this week after being deactivated for the first two games.

Is he going to be a bust? Maybe, but you can't tell right now.

[JohnnyK27]

According to 105.7 ...Krugers has informed the Ravens through his agent that he doesnt play special teams...& never has in college. IMO he should be traded to a team in need of a pass rush. asap

[section18]

This story about him refusing to play on Special Teams seems hard to believe. He plays hard when he is on the field and it would seem like he would be a good ST player. We need to get him on the field.

[JohnnyK27]

This story about him refusing to play on Special Teams seems hard to believe. He plays hard when he is on the field and it would seem like he would be a good ST player. We need to get him on the field.

Usually 105.7 is pretty accurate. And they specifically mnetions his agent.

[xmarkakisthespt]

Burgess has already been traded. Some young linebackers need to make their bones on special teams. If, in fact, he doesn't wanna do it, or can't do it he should be deactivated. I'm sure not going to question what the coaches are doing with a 3-0 team that's sitting on the very top of some of the power rankings. Even if they don't mean anything.

[Tony-OH]

According to 105.7 ...Krugers has informed the Ravens through his agent that he doesnt play special teams...& never has in college. IMO he should be traded to a team in need of a pass rush. asap

This would explain why he's been deactivated. If this is true, this puts his character in question. Rookies normally don't ell their teams what they will or will not do. I hope this is wrong because he seemed like a good story.

[JohnnyK27]

Not sure where I read it, but it is apparently a gametime decision between Barnes and Kruger. Since Barnes is a good ST player and Kruger doesn't play ST at all, they have gone with Barnes the past 3 games.

I dont know about this...But it was a pretty big topic of discussion this morning on my way down the road to the game (10-10:45).

[section18]

This explains why he isn't playing. There has to be another player that can be deactivated to allow him to play. I have heard the 105.7 comments from AM about why Kruger isn't playing several times. It would be nice if a reporter would ask Harbaugh the Special Teams question about Kruger and see what he has to say. Adalius Thomas played on Special Teams as well as linebacker and he went on to get a pretty huge contract from the Patriots. There is nothing to be ashamed of playing on ST'S. Are you more prone to getting injured? I don't think so. Kruger is a tough guy. Get him out there on special teams and maybe we can improve their play. Why would he balk at playing on the ST? They played a little bit better today and contained Cribbs. Maybe the Browns will clean house in a few weeks and we can swing a deal for Cribbs.

[JohnnyK27]

This explains why he isn't playing. There has to be another player that can be deactivated to allow him to play. I have heard the 105.7 comments from AM about why Kruger isn't playing several times. It would be nice if a reporter would ask Harbaugh the Special Teams question about Kruger and see what he has to say. Adalius Thomas played on Special Teams as well as linebacker and he went on to get a pretty huge contract from the Patriots. There is nothing to be ashamed of playing on ST'S. Are you more prone to getting injured? I don't think so. Kruger is a tough guy. Get him out there on special teams and maybe we can improve their play. Why would he balk at playing on the ST? They played a little bit better today and contained Cribbs. Maybe the Browns will clean house in a few weeks and we can swing a deal for Cribbs.

According to the report Kruger never played a snap on special teams in college.

[Sports Guy]

I highly doubt that a kid from Utah is trying to tell the Ravens what he will and will not do.

I am sure something has been lost in translation here.

What he probably told them is that he has never played ST before and doesn't really know how to do it properly.

I find it hard to believe that he is telling them that he will not do it at all.

[JohnnyK27]

I highly doubt that a kid from Utah is trying to tell the Ravens what he will and will not do.

I am sure something has been lost in translation here.

What he probably told them is that he has never played ST before and doesn't really know how to do it properly.

I find it hard to believe that he is telling them that he will not do it at all.

The report said that the agent had contacted the front office.

[Stevo5278]

The report said that the agent had contacted the front office.

I'd like to hear what some of our insiders have to say about this before accepting it as truth BUT if this is true, and he's going to play passive aggressive games like this, I'd suggest that the Ravens do one of several things:

1. Have Ray take the young man aside and explain to him what it means to be a member of the Ravens, and especially the Ravens defense.

2. Have Dwan Edwards take the young man aside and kindly explain that he has enjoyed a 6 year career now in large part because of his ability to contribute on special teams. Otherwise Edwards would have been off this team years ago.

3. Play the passive aggressive game right back and have Ron Johnson call Kruger's agent and explain just how short his career was because of his refusal to embrace a roll on special teams.

If this guy truly has the "motor" that they say he does, you'd think he'd be a natural for special teams.

[porterhouse]

Anyone recall if Kruger played on any ST during the preseason? Has he at least been practicing on ST?

Would seem strange that he or his agent would be telling the Ravens that he doesn't know how to play ST. Wouldn't that be for the Ravens to evaluate and determine?

If it's that he's actually not willing to play ST, then that is a problem and the Ravens probably won't put up with it. If he's just not really that good at it then I'd imagine the Ravens would keep working with him until he's good enough. I mean, can't he at least be in to rush the punter or kicker?

[ChaosLex]

I highly doubt that a kid from Utah is trying to tell the Ravens what he will and will not do.

I am sure something has been lost in translation here.

What he probably told them is that he has never played ST before and doesn't really know how to do it properly.

I find it hard to believe that he is telling them that he will not do it at all.

Agreed. I think I gotta put on my boots for this story because the b.s. is getting mighty thick. ;)

[McLovin]

O and D lineman are usually the guys who are deactivated. This is not unusual. The Ravens are also LB heavy - and all of the backup LB's play special teams. It's not that they can't use him on ST - there are just better ST players ahead of him.

I don't think there is any conspiracy here. Krueger is a luxury, and he will have to bide his time. Don't forget that he is a 'tweener' prospect who still probably has a bit to learn.

Jarret Johnson (admittedly a 4th rounder, but still a similar player) was hardly active the first half of his first season.

Just enjoy the fact that the Ravens are very healthy and very deep at the moment.

[olehippi]

I definitely find it hard to believe that Kruger would say to the Ravens that: "I don't do special teams." If he had, I have no doubt that Ozzie would have quickly traded him (see Burgess) or Harbaugh would have had a foot firmly planted on his azz as he booted him out the front door of The Palace.

Almost certainly, there is something else going on here. Most likely it's because Kruger didn't play ST in college and isn't ready yet, and/or there are simply better, more prepared guys in front of him right now.

[xKHx]

Anyone else notice the absence of the insiders on this thread. :scratchchinhmm:

[McLovin]

I definitely find it hard to believe that Kruger would say to the Ravens that: "I don't do special teams."
Especially a guy who hasn't played a down, and who is tied to a team for the next 4 years.

[McNulty]

So far, I hate to say it, but this guy looks like a bust. Sorry, but 2nd rounders should be able to make the active roster. I trust the Raven's judgement so if they say he's not ready, he's not.

This is ridiculously early. I remember a time when we all thought Chris Chester was a bust too. Now he's really playing well...similar situation where he had to learn a new position and it took him a while.

I highly doubt he's telling the Ravens what he will and won't do. Especially after what he's been through losing a kidney AND getting jumped to the point where he was in the hospital for months in two different incidents.

Ray Rice didn't score his first TD until yesterday. Does he qualify as a bust too? Didn't think so.

[McLovin]

I remember a time when we all thought Chris Chester was a bust too.
Yeah, Chris Chester was a TE this time last year. Dwan Edwards took a couple of years too.

[Tony-OH]

This is ridiculously early. I remember a time when we all thought Chris Chester was a bust too. Now he's really playing well...similar situation where he had to learn a new position and it took him a while.

I highly doubt he's telling the Ravens what he will and won't do. Especially after what he's been through losing a kidney AND getting jumped to the point where he was in the hospital for months in two different incidents.

Ray Rice didn't score his first TD until yesterday. Does he qualify as a bust too? Didn't think so.

Ray Rice played right away so I'm not sure how in the world him scoring his first TD yesterday is the same thing?

I'm just saying that 105.7 has pretty good sources and the fact that the Ravens have been very quiet on this whole thing tells me there's more to the story then we're just giving him some time or that we have better players.

Perhaps we do have better players, and if we do, then he''s not living up to what a 2nd round talent should be. I'm not really saying he's a bust, but he's certainly not the guy the Ravens thought they got when they drafted him.

Maybe it will take him some time or maybe he'll need an injury to get some playing time, but either way, a 2nd round pick should be able to make an active roster his first year. The fact that the Ravens use so many different players to their strengths tell me there's more to the story than Barnes is a better special teamer.

[McNulty]

Ray Rice played right away so I'm not sure how in the world him scoring his first TD yesterday is the same thing?

I'm just saying that 105.7 has pretty good sources and the fact that the Ravens have been very quiet on this whole thing tells me there's more to the story then we're just giving him some time or that we have better players.

Perhaps we do have better players, and if we do, then he''s not living up to what a 2nd round talent should be. I'm not really saying he's a bust, but he's certainly not the guy the Ravens thought they got when they drafted him.

Maybe it will take him some time or maybe he'll need an injury to get some playing time, but either way, a 2nd round pick should be able to make an active roster his first year. The fact that the Ravens use so many different players to their strengths tell me there's more to the story than Barnes is a better special teamer.

I'm just saying its way too early to throw the bust word anywhere near him.

[porterhouse]

I just asked Ken Murray (The Sun) on his Ravens chat about Kruger and he said:

I think the rumor is pretty close to fact. Kruger has shown no interest in special teams, and he's not close to getting on the field. I'd forget about him for now. He needs an attitude adjustment.

[JohnnyK27]

I just asked Ken Murray (The Sun) on his Ravens chat about Kruger and he said:

I think the rumor is pretty close to fact. Kruger has shown no interest in special teams, and he's not close to getting on the field. I'd forget about him for now. He needs an attitude adjustment.

This is nearly the same thing said on 105.7 .... The guy doesnt view himself as a special teamer.

[Hank Scorpio]

Kruger's biggest problem is his mullet.

[Tony-OH]

I'm just saying its way too early to throw the bust word anywhere near him.

Actually, I agree with you, poor choice of words on my part. I would however say I have concerns about him.

[Tony-OH]

I just asked Ken Murray (The Sun) on his Ravens chat about Kruger and he said:

I think the rumor is pretty close to fact. Kruger has shown no interest in special teams, and he's not close to getting on the field. I'd forget about him for now. He needs an attitude adjustment.

Very interesting, thanks for sharing and good job by Murray for getting the truth out and not candy coating it. Mr. Kruger needs to realize this is Baltimore Freakin' Ravens he's playing on and if they want you to play special teams you play special teams.

I'm already very, very disappointed in this guy mainly because he was supposed to be a quality person on top of a great player. Rookies don't dictate how they are used, especially 2nd rounders. I'm sure Ray and company just love this guy and I'm sure this attitude is going over like a box of rocks with Harbaugh's Team concept.

[TJ Wrangler]

Very interesting, thanks for sharing and good job by Murray for getting the truth out and not candy coating it. Mr. Kruger needs to realize this is Baltimore Freakin' Ravens he's playing on and if they want you to play special teams you play special teams.

I'm already very, very disappointed in this guy mainly because he was supposed to be a quality person on top of a great player. Rookies don't dictate how they are used, especially 2nd rounders. I'm sure Ray and company just love this guy and I'm sure this attitude is going over like a box of rocks with Harbaugh's Team concept.

This is really interesting, but at the same time it's something I really don't want to believe. It would probably do him good to stand up in the locker room and volunteer to play exclusively on special teams for a game just to prove himself. Even if he isn't ready, he needs to be willing.

[Miller192]

Alright, just was told that the agent remarks are completely false. No one is requesting that Kruger doesn't play special teams. Kruger, however, does have an incentive clause regarding playing time in his contract and obviously, he's not playing. His agent is apparently not happy about this.

I'm told that he just isn't good enough yet for him to be out on a football field. He was a project coming in and he still is a work in progress. The Ravens think he is going to be a very good player but it's going to take time and they have projected that.

They will probably make him active shortly but don't expect much playing time out of him yet.

[Tony-OH]

Alright, just was told that the agent remarks are completely false. No one is requesting that Kruger doesn't play special teams. Kruger, however, does have an incentive clause regarding playing time in his contract and obviously, he's not playing. His agent is apparently not happy about this.

I'm told that he just isn't good enough yet for him to be out on a football field. He was a project coming in and he still is a work in progress. The Ravens think he is going to be a very good player but it's going to take time and they have projected that.

They will probably make him active shortly but don't expect much playing time out of him yet.

We appreciate you giving us Kruger's agent spin on the situation, but there are two reports (105.7 and Murray) that have Kruger not wanting to play special teams. I'll probably believe the two guys who have nothing to gain by telling a story than the spin of an agent.

Seriously though, we appreciate you checking up on this.

[clapdiddy]

Alright, just was told that the agent remarks are completely false. No one is requesting that Kruger doesn't play special teams. Kruger, however, does have an incentive clause regarding playing time in his contract and obviously, he's not playing. His agent is apparently not happy about this.

I'm told that he just isn't good enough yet for him to be out on a football field. He was a project coming in and he still is a work in progress. The Ravens think he is going to be a very good player but it's going to take time and they have projected that.

They will probably make him active shortly but don't expect much playing time out of him yet.

Thanks for getting this straightened out. I'm surprised that Ken Murray would put something up like that on his Q&A without having some pretty good sources on it.

I hope that we can see Mr. Kruger soon enough...but I don't want him out there if he's not able to contribute yet.

[ChaosLex]

Alright, just was told that the agent remarks are completely false. No one is requesting that Kruger doesn't play special teams. Kruger, however, does have an incentive clause regarding playing time in his contract and obviously, he's not playing. His agent is apparently not happy about this.

I'm told that he just isn't good enough yet for him to be out on a football field. He was a project coming in and he still is a work in progress. The Ravens think he is going to be a very good player but it's going to take time and they have projected that.

They will probably make him active shortly but don't expect much playing time out of him yet.

Thanks for the update, Miller. :)

I thought that story smelled funny. :p

[ejf1025]

We appreciate you giving us Kruger's agent spin on the situation, but there are two reports (105.7 and Murray) that have Kruger not wanting to play special teams. I'll probably believe the two guys who have nothing to gain by telling a story than the spin of an agent.

Seriously though, we appreciate you checking up on this.

I don't think Miller said his source was the agent.

[Hank Scorpio]

So, let me get this straight.

The Ravens have been de-activating a rookie whom they don't think is ready quite yet, who by the way would be playing behind Suggs, Pryce, and Jarrett Johnson, and we are concerned that he hasn't suited up yet?

It's a good problem to have, folks. It's depth!!!!

[porterhouse]

It's a good problem to have, folks. It's depth!!!!
Absolutely, no argument there. I think what has folks stirred up is the rumored/possible/alleged "I ain't gonna play on ST" part.

[Miller192]

We appreciate you giving us Kruger's agent spin on the situation, but there are two reports (105.7 and Murray) that have Kruger not wanting to play special teams. I'll probably believe the two guys who have nothing to gain by telling a story than the spin of an agent.

Seriously though, we appreciate you checking up on this.

Well, I don't know what was said on 105.7 and I took Murray's comments as "if there's smoke there must be fire" dismission of the situation.

I do believe that Kruger probably isn't a better option than what is on the field now if you're planning to give him adequate playing time. If you're dissapointed that Kruger hasn't been able to grab a spot than I guess I could understand that but he certainly had his work cut out for him.

My feeling is, if the Ravens are going to rush 4, who are you going to bench in favor of Paul Kruger? I guess you could rotate him in more in the base defense but if the guy truly isn't ready, why give him the opportunity.

Hopefully he'll come along and give the Ravens some fresh legs down the road.

[Hank Scorpio]

Absolutely, no argument there. I think what has folks stirred up is the rumored/possible/alleged "I ain't gonna play on ST" part.

I guess ya gotta get stirred up about something, right? :laughlol:

[Sports Guy]

I don't think Miller said his source was the agent.

Right..All he said was that the agent isn't happy that he isn't playing.

The bottom line is if he was good on ST and had that ability to play it, he would be on the team because of it...But since he isn't and since he won't be getting time over what we have in his position, he is deactivated.

Now, I do find it hard to believe that you can't bring him in for obvious passing situations and just let him go after the QB...He should be able to do that.

[McLovin]

Kruger, however, does have an incentive clause regarding playing time in his contract and obviously, he's not playing. His agent is apparently not happy about this.
This would go completely against what others in the media are saying. If Kruger has playing time incentives, he's losing money if he's not willing to play special teams.

If the agent saying is "my client doesn't play ST" - well, then he's saying "my client doesn't want your money."

[Miller192]

This would go completely against what others in the media are saying. If Kruger has playing time incentives, he's losing money if he's not willing to play special teams.

If the agent saying is "my client doesn't play ST" - well, then he's saying "my client doesn't want your money."

Well, my post is going against what others in the media are saying. I was told that there was no one from Kruger's camp that has stated he will not play special teams.

His agent wants him on the field and the Ravens aren't ready to put him there. Maybe there is some contention there because he's a high pick, I don't know.

[McLovin]

Well, my post is going against what others in the media are saying. I was told that there was no one from Kruger's camp that has stated he will not play special teams.

His agent wants him on the field and the Ravens aren't ready to put him there. Maybe there is some contention there because he's a high pick, I don't know.
I was saying your story is more believable than the media's, especially if there are playing time incentives.

[Miller192]

I was saying your story is more believable than the media's, especially if there are playing time incentives.

My bad, I'm stupid.

[Sports Guy]

I was saying your story is more believable than the media's, especially if there are playing time incentives.

Miller is much more accurate than the media has been IMO..Same with Hank.

This sounds to me, as I said, as a situation where people hear one thing and run with it in other directions.

They hear, he wants playing time but doesn't play ST and all of a sudden he has an attitude problem.

When what it really is, is he has incentives if he plays more but he can't play ST right now because he has never done it before...That's not a refusal to play them, that is a "I would be bad at it because I have never played them before" admittal.

Big difference but something that could easily be screwed up.

[McLovin]

Miller is much more accurate than the media has been IMO..Same with Hank.
Hence my agreement.

[Tony-OH]

Trust me, I'm not doubting Miller at all because he has proven to be very reliable and I know who his contact is. I'm just saying there are two sources that says Kruger either will not, or does not want to play special teams. Neither source has any reason to lie or cause bad will.

I also trust the Ravens to have the right personnel out there so I'm not bashing them at all on this. all I'm saying is we have a 2nd round pick who can't find his way onto the active roster. If I'm not mistaken, this was not a 21-year old project pick but an older senior sign who should be more mature more ready to play.

Sprinkle some reports that he doesn't want to play ST, and I think there's a problem here. Maybe there is nothing and perhaps 105.7 and Murray are making it all up (doesn't make much sense to me), but there's more to the story here IMHO.

[Tony-OH]

Miller is much more accurate than the media has been IMO..Same with Hank.

This sounds to me, as I said, as a situation where people hear one thing and run with it in other directions.

They hear, he wants playing time but doesn't play ST and all of a sudden he has an attitude problem.

When what it really is, is he has incentives if he plays more but he can't play ST right now because he has never done it before...That's not a refusal to play them, that is a "I would be bad at it because I have never played them before" admittal.

Big difference but something that could easily be screwed up.

But Rob, what professional player would actually say that? I don't know, but most guys would give their left testicle to suit up even if it meant being the ball holder on kickoffs in the wind.

Kruger was supposed to be a high motor guy and that usually translates well to ST. I'd imagine that most of the high draft picks didn't play much ST in college either so I'm not buying that as an excuse. Something just isn't right.

What I will buy is that this guy might just not be as good as advertised and the Ravens are not about to hurt their chances this year with a project.

[Sports Guy]

Trust me, I'm not doubting Miller at all because he has proven to be very reliable and I know who his contact is. I'm just saying there are two sources that says Kruger either will not, or does not want to play special teams. Neither source has any reason to lie or cause bad will.

I also trust the Ravens to have the right personnel out there so I'm not bashing them at all on this. all I'm saying is we have a 2nd round pick who can't find his way onto the active roster. If I'm not mistaken, this was not a 21-year old project pick but an older senior sign who should be more mature more ready to play.

Sprinkle some reports that he doesn't want to play ST, and I think there's a problem here. Maybe there is nothing and perhaps 105.7 and Murray are making it all up (doesn't make much sense to me), but there's more to the story here IMHO.But they are hearing it from someone else...How do you know that the people hearing it aren't screwing up something in the translation?

You know how rumors are.

Now, you very well may be right Tony..I am not disputing that...But I don't think you can be so absolute about it either.

[Sports Guy]

But Rob, what professional player would actually say that? I don't know, but most guys would give their left testicle to suit up even if it meant being the ball holder on kickoffs in the wind.

Kruger was supposed to be a high motor guy and that usually translates well to ST. I'd imagine that most of the high draft picks didn't play much ST in college either so I'm not buying that as an excuse. Something just isn't right.

What I will buy is that this guy might just not be as good as advertised and the Ravens are not about to hurt their chances this year with a project.

Well, if he has never done it and doesn't know what to do, maybe he is worried about injury? With the way ST are, the likelihood of injury is probably much higher if you don't know what you are doing.

What I don't get is how did he not play ST in training camp?

[Miller192]

Spoke with David Canter, he's going to address the issue.

[McLovin]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bal-prestonqa0929,0,2151315.story

On when Kruger will suit up:


He'll play when the Ravens think he is ready. Kruger works hard and has volunteered to play every position possible to get on the field, but apparently the Ravens don't think he is ready. That's the real scoop, unless the National Enquirer has something different.

Never in the brief history of the Ravens has there been so much interest in one rookie not suiting up for games. Kruger has talent. He had a decent training camp and preseason, but he isn't better than the guys in front of him. Nope, he's not better than Terrell Suggs, Antwan Barnes, Trevor Pryce, Dwan Edwards or Jarret Johnson. Face it, that's a deep and talented gang of players ahead of him.

[Old#5fan]

Here's a thought as well. Perhaps he needs time to learn the defense well enough to contribute as opposed to being a liability. I know Sports Guys espouses he should be able to be inserted on obvious passing downs to rush the passer but to me that is an over-simplification of the play calling in the NFL as many times runs, screens, reverses, etc. are called on obvious passing downs and Kruger being inexperienced could get caught out of position and that could result in a big play. I just think that people are over-reacting over this as he probably just needs to watch, learn, observe and practice with the defense so he fully understands his responsibilities. It certainly is not as simplified as - Hey Kruger go out there and rush the passer!:laughlol:

[Tony-OH]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bal-prestonqa0929,0,2151315.story

On when Kruger will suit up:

Very interesting. Now I'd like to see Murray respond to all of this.

[ShaneDawg85]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bal-prestonqa0929,0,2151315.story

On when Kruger will suit up:

It's rather amusing Preston brings up some of those names, considering I still don't know how Dwan Edwards has lasted in Baltimore as long as he has, and Pryce is nearing the end of his career.

No one is arguing he get playing time over Suggs, Barnes, Gooden, etc. But it is rediculous that he hasn't gotten a single snap, and even worse, he hasn't even been activated, not even to play special teams. It's not like the unit is setting the world on fire. I, and I hope nobody else, is arguing for the guy to get a starters job ahead of others who truly deserve it. But for a 2nd round draft pick to be entering the quarter mark of the season and not played a down yet or even suited up is incredibly disappointing, especially given all that we have heard about the guy.

[McLovin]

Very interesting. Now I'd like to see Murray respond to all of this.
Yeah, he kind of calls him out, no? That's why I bolded the 'Enquirer' bit.


It's rather amusing Preston brings up some of those names, considering I still don't know how Dwan Edwards has lasted in Baltimore as long as he has, and Pryce is nearing the end of his career.
Have to disagree there. Edwards was very good in 2007, was missed enough in 2008 that they had to make a trade to replace him, and he's played very well so far. Edwards is going to make a lot of money this offseason.

[AgentOrange]

Very interesting. Now I'd like to see Murray respond to all of this.

Seems like it falls right in line with that Miller was saying. Sounds accurate to me.

[orayole]

I was listening to 105.7 today and they were saying the same thing Preston said in that article.

[Tony-OH]

Ok, so the good news in all of this is that it doesn't appear to be an attitude problem with Kruger. The bad news, he's a 2nd round pick who's not good enough to earn some playing time through the first three regular season game despite the fact Suggs has been hobbled with some injuries and Price is no longer a threat on the end to get pressure on the QB (he still stuffs the run pretty well though).

So, I guess it's good that the kid is not giving out ultimatums, but not so good that he can't crack the 45-man on game day.

[McLovin]

I think we can put the attitude issues to bed.

http://masnsports.com/2009/09/kruger-addresses-his-lack-of-p.html

Not only that, but this reinforces that he's just only learning ST. He needs to be able to play ST to be on the active roster, and he's not ready yet.

If you're not starting, you need to be able to contribute on ST. Maybe he is good enough to help out the pass rush. But he's not good enough to play ST. This makes sense to me.

[AgentOrange]

Ok, so the good news in all of this is that it doesn't appear to be an attitude problem with Kruger. The bad news, he's a 2nd round pick who's not good enough to earn some playing time through the first three regular season game despite the fact Suggs has been hobbled with some injuries and Price is no longer a threat on the end to get pressure on the QB (he still stuffs the run pretty well though).

So, I guess it's good that the kid is not giving out ultimatums, but not so good that he can't crack the 45-man on game day.

Well, considering everyone is saying how much depth the Ravens have, it might not be too terrible. I am sure he can step up if any injuries were to happen. It is a great thing to have this much depth.

[xKHx]

Well, considering everyone is saying how much depth the Ravens have, it might not be too terrible. I am sure he can step up if any injuries were to happen. It is a great thing to have this much depth.

Would be nice if he can take over for Pryce next year.

[McLovin]

Would be nice if he can take over for Pryce next year.
He's a long way from being big enough. Totally different position.

[ccbird]

He's a long way from being big enough. Totally different position.

Yeah, especially playing a 3-4. As some have mentioned, I wouldn't worry about Kruger being a disappointment right now because of the depth we have at Dline and LB. He just isn't going to crack the starting lineup and he's battling guys like Barnes and McClain who are solid ST guys for backup roles and pass rushing situations. The other thing to take note of is it seems we haven't been putting a lot of special packages in this year on third down anyway. We have been staying with most of our starting front 7 for all 3 downs.

[Miller192]

Paul Kruger owes me a steak.

[ChaosLex]

He's also willing to play Tight End...

http://blogs.baltimoreravens.com/?p=1178

[JohnnyK27]

He's also willing to play Tight End...

http://blogs.baltimoreravens.com/?p=1178

I guess this clears it up.

[McLovin]

Paul Kruger owes me a steak.
Seriously. And after ChaosLex' link, he really turned lemons to lemonade...


“I’ve been practicing with special teams since the day I got here,” explained the Utah product. “I’m completely willing and excited to get on any team I can. Defense, special teams, offense. I don’t care what it is, I just want to be out there.”

[Stevo5278]

You have to wonder who started the rumor, and why.

Furthermore, IMO Ken Murray gets an F in journalism for this for simply piling onto a rumor without investigating it further. This is exactly why The Sun and other outlets in the "old media" are losing their credibility. Instead of doing their own investigations and fact-checking, they're just piling on to rumors and publishing fluff that will create excitement and increase circulation.

[Tony-OH]

You have to wonder who started the rumor, and why.

Furthermore, IMO Ken Murray gets an F in journalism for this for simply piling onto a rumor without investigating it further. This is exactly why The Sun and other outlets in the "old media" are losing their credibility. Instead of doing their own investigations and fact-checking, they're just piling on to rumors and publishing fluff that will create excitement and increase circulation.

You are not kidding. He owes his readers an apology as well as Kruger.

[Hank Scorpio]

He's a really good dude, anxious to dress, but behind 4 or 5 extremely talented football players. His time will come. Someone will get hurt at some point or another.

[The Rick]

He's a really good dude, anxious to dress, but behind 4 or 5 extremely talented football players. His time will come. Someone will get hurt at some point or another.

I'm glad to hear this, and feel stupid and embarrassed to have piled on Kruger after hearing the nasty rumor. I should have known better than to believe everything I hear. I just can't wait to watch him play.

[Wind Rider]

He was active and had a good motor in ST but not particularly productive. Possible bust. Typical Ravens 2nd rounder, guys with good potential but iffy. They need to change what they do on 2nd rounders.

[ccbird]

You have to wonder who started the rumor, and why.

Furthermore, IMO Ken Murray gets an F in journalism for this for simply piling onto a rumor without investigating it further. This is exactly why The Sun and other outlets in the "old media" are losing their credibility. Instead of doing their own investigations and fact-checking, they're just piling on to rumors and publishing fluff that will create excitement and increase circulation.

From what I understand it was Marks who started this rumor. I'm not suprised she was wrong and is now made to look like a fool. When will people stop listening to the crap that comes out of her mouth.

[Stevo5278]

From what I understand it was Marks who started this rumor. I'm not suprised she was wrong and is now made to look like a fool. When will people stop listening to the crap that comes out of her mouth.

Rep to you! I guess she's got to blab about something else now that it's clear that Brandon Marshall isn't coming to Baltimore this year.

[Tony-OH]

Let's not forget that longtime Sun writer Ken Murray said that Kruger needed, "An attitude change."

I really didn't pay much attention until he reported that. I'm still waiting to hear why Murray said that about Kruger if it appears it's the exact opposite? Was he just doing lazy reporting and parroting what Marks said on 105.7? If so, the Sun owes their readers an apology because honestly, if this the reporting we should expect from them then why read it? As of now, Murray goes on my "Do not pay attention to" list.

[TGO]

Let's not forget that longtime Sun writer Ken Murray said that Kruger needed, "An attitude change."

I really didn't pay much attention until he reported that. I'm still waiting to hear why Murray said that about Kruger if it appears it's the exact opposite? Was he just doing lazy reporting and parroting what Marks said on 105.7? If so, the Sun owes their readers an apology because honestly, if this the reporting we should expect from them then why read it? As of now, Murray goes on my "Do not pay attention to" list.

And Ken Murray then wrote the "that rumor isn't true" blog entry without any sort of mea culpa whatsoever for his (major) part in spreading the rumor. http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/blog/2009/09/the_mystery_of_paul_kruger_is_no_mystery.html

[Miller192]

Let's not forget that longtime Sun writer Ken Murray said that Kruger needed, "An attitude change."

I really didn't pay much attention until he reported that. I'm still waiting to hear why Murray said that about Kruger if it appears it's the exact opposite? Was he just doing lazy reporting and parroting what Marks said on 105.7? If so, the Sun owes their readers an apology because honestly, if this the reporting we should expect from them then why read it? As of now, Murray goes on my "Do not pay attention to" list.

You're post here is the exact reason I got in touch with Paul's agent. I did some legwork for him but he got in touch with a couple of reporters in town including sending an email to Ken Murray.

It's one thing to create rumor based off of little info about signing this guy or that. However, if you are going to write something negative about a player you better have a solid source for it.

I don't carry any torch against Murray. Personally, I think he should stay away from blogging, it's likely to land a guy like him in more trouble.

Anyway, I found out how this rumor started and it's pretty absurd.

[Tony-OH]

You're post here is the exact reason I got in touch with Paul's agent. I did some legwork for him but he got in touch with a couple of reporters in town including sending an email to Ken Murray.

It's one thing to create rumor based off of little info about signing this guy or that. However, if you are going to write something negative about a player you better have a solid source for it.

I don't carry any torch against Murray. Personally, I think he should stay away from blogging, it's likely to land a guy like him in more trouble.

Anyway, I found out how this rumor started and it's pretty absurd.

Good work on your part. Although I'm still a little skeptical about an older 2nd round pick that can't crack the 45-man, I'm happy there's nothing wrong with his attitude. Hopefully the hard work will pay off and Kruger will be a big part of our future.

As for Murray, the fact that he wrote that piece without a mea culpa tells me all I need to know. He's acting like he never said that comment in his Q&A. We all make mistakes in reporting, I've certainly made mine, but I at least admitted when I was wrong.

[Birds of B'more]

As for Murray, the fact that he wrote that piece without a mea culpa tells me all I need to know. He's acting like he never said that comment in his Q&A. We all make mistakes in reporting, I've certainly made mine, but I at least admitted when I was wrong.

This is why The Baltimore Sun will eventually go belly-up. Too many of their remaining "journalists" are probably more worried about the next buy-out or round of lay-offs than doing their job. This thread is proof that you can go to message boards or blogs for more accurate and up-to-date information, provided you know who the reliable sources are. Which brings me to the rep I owe Miller192....good job and thanks for sharing that with us! And I hope Kruger follows up on that steak he owes you.

[JohnnyK27]

This is why The Baltimore Sun will eventually go belly-up. Too many of their remaining "journalists" are probably more worried about the next buy-out or round of lay-offs than doing their job. This thread is proof that you can go to message boards or blogs for more accurate and up-to-date information, provided you know who the reliable sources are. Which brings me to the rep I owe Miller192....good job and thanks for sharing that with us! And I hope Kruger follows up on that steak he owes you.

The Sun is already Belly-up.... I'm glad the info was wrong about Kruger. I hope he gets on the field soon. Personally I havent been impressed with Gooden so far. I think for playing next to Ray his name hasn't been called very much.

[Birds of B'more]

The Sun is already Belly-up.... I'm glad the info was wrong about Kruger. I hope he gets on the field soon. Personally I havent been impressed with Gooden so far. I think for playing next to Ray his name has been called very much.

By belly-up I mean the building is shuttered and no more paper/web site...The Sun isn't there yet, but it's on its way.

I think part of the reason we don't hear much from Gooden, and J. McClain, is because Ayanbadejo has been such a pleasant surprise so far this season. When a guy is making plays the way he is, you have to get him on the field, which takes snaps away from the others.

[McLovin]

Somehow I missed this blog entry from Murray.

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/blog/2009/09/the_mystery_of_paul_kruger_is_no_mystery.html

Read the comments. It's infuriating that he's ignoring the furor that he caused.

[JohnnyK27]

Somehow I missed this blog entry from Murray.

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/blog/2009/09/the_mystery_of_paul_kruger_is_no_mystery.html

Read the comments. It's infuriating that he's ignoring the furor that he caused.

Totally Bush League! :mad:

[Birds of B'more]

Like someone in the comments section of the blog said, I wouldn't blame Paul Kruger if he never gives Ken Murray the time of day again.