Flacco Is Going to 'Pound the Desk' for a New Contract and More AFC North News

Everyone knew that this Super Bowl, no matter the outcome, would be a turning point in Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco's career. With Flacco an impending free agent, the fact that he helped steer his team to the NFL's biggest stage means a big payday is ahead.

Flacco joked with the assembled media after the Ravens' win over the San Francisco 49ers that he's ready to "pound on the desk" of team owner Steve Bisciotti about his new contract, one that could approach the $100 million mark.

The other option is the franchise tag, worth $14.6 million in 2013, but the hope is that the Ravens and Flacco can come to an agreement on a contract instead, which would be more beneficial to Baltimore's strained salary cap.

Baltimore Ravens

If it wasn't enough for Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco to win Super Bowl MVP Sunday, Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun reports that his wife, Dana, is also expecting their second child. 

Bleacher Report's Stephen Sheehan breaks down the biggest clutch performers of Sunday's Super Bowl.

Cincinnati Bengals

Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer spoke with Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Thomas Howard about the progress he's making after tearing his ACL in a September practice.

David Campbell of Bleacher Report gives his latest predictions for whom the Bengals will target in the 2013 NFL draft.

Cleveland Browns

Terry Pluto of the Cleveland Plain Dealer is pleased that former Cleveland Browns and eventual Baltimore Ravens owner Art Modell didn't reach the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year—not for reasons of revenge, rather Pluto doesn't think what he's done has warranted him enshrinement in Canton.

Michael W. Youngman of Bleacher Report takes a look at the failed free agency pickups in Browns history.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette takes a look at the state of the Pittsburgh Steelers' receiving corps.

Chris G. of Bleacher Report details five positions the Steelers would be best not to address in the first round of this year's draft.

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