Aug. 23, 2008

 Our sources in Pittsburgh have fully endorsed the Steelers’ decision to make Santonio Holmes their punt returner this season. Holmes had been requesting a shot at the return duties, but coaches had been resistant because of concerns that it would be too much of an injury and fatigue risk since they’re counting on him to deliver in the passing game, as well. It’s a gamble to have such a productive receiver on special-teams units, but Holmes’ big-play ability proved too tempting in this case.

 Sources in Baltimore say the Ravens are losing hope that Pro Bowl FS Ed Reed will be ready for their season opener Sept. 7 against the Bengals. Reed missed the team’s first two preseason games with a shoulder injury and has been practicing with a red jersey on, meaning he can’t do any hitting. Head coach John Harbaugh remains optimistic that Reed will be prepared to play in Week One, but we hear backup Jim Leonhard will likely be getting the start at free safety.

 Recently acquired Browns CB Travis Daniels was a player whom Cleveland GM Phil Savage had been eyeing for a long time, a source close to the team tells us. He’s likely to be the primary backup corner but won’t be seeing time as the nickel back. Because Daniels is new to the system, the Browns don’t want to burden him with learning slot responsibilities.