Here are the most interesting stories Tuesday in the AFC North:
- Following their pending release, the Baltimore Ravens reportedly want receiver Derrick Mason and tight end Todd Heap back at a lower price.
Morning take: Both are among quarterback Joe Flacco’s favorite targets. But with a tight salary cap, the Ravens were willing to cut some age and high salaries. It will be a matter of whether or not Mason and/or Heap will take less to stay in Baltimore.
- Is Cincinnati Bengals receiver Chad Ochocinco next to be released?
Morning take: As you can see with the Ravens, you can’t put anything past teams during this crazy period. The difference is Cincinnati is more than $35 million under the cap and can easily absorb Ochocinco’s salary. So there’s at least a chance he stays.
- Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II said he isn’t sure at this point if his players will receive NFL discipline.
Morning take: Rooney confirmed that troubled players can be subject by league punishment, even during the lockout. But don’t expect James Harrison or Hines Ward to miss any games for their transgressions.
- The Cleveland Browns are set to open training camp on Friday.
Morning take: Cleveland needs to get to work ASAP, because it has a lot of ground to make up. A solid training camp could help them avoid a slow start.
