On Further Review

Now we're worried.

Yesterday we noted, somewhat in passing, somewhat in detail, the lack of professionalism exhibited by Browns quarterback Charlie Frye in throwing what may be the worst pass we've seen in recent years.

We note today that Frye readily acknowledges that it was a "bonehead" play that is not to be repeated. Good. But what scares us is that what drove him to make the throw in the first place is the fact that it supposedly worked three or four other times in the past. Really? We defy Frye to name the times, places, and situations where it worked even once. We guarantee he can't do it. Besides, even if he could, is that what we can expect out of this guy. In Frye's world, a stupid mistake that happens to work shouldn't be met with a sigh of relief that he got away with one. Instead, it's met with the false confidence to try it again. If that's what's guiding Frye in his development, we submit that the Browns will be on the market for a new starter before the start training camp next season.

We also were intrigued by the comments of Joe Jurevicius. As reported in the Akron Beacon Journal, Frye's play didn't cost him the respect of his teammates, according to Jurevicius.``He's a phenomenal competitor. He takes the hits and still takes charge in the huddle.... I don't care where he went to school,'' Jurevicius said.

This somewhat backhanded compliment only underscores the tenuous nature of Frye's grip on the respect of his teammates. Not only must he overcome the stigma of being from the University of Akron, he also must overcome the stigma of throwing two critical, ill conceived passes in the red zone in consecutive weeks. Just getting up after being repeatedly hit will ultimately lose its luster. If Frye continues to play like he's still at the U of A instead of the NFL, that respect for taking the hits will quickly turn into disdain, as in "why the heck doesn't he get rid of the ball faster? He deserves what he gets."

Yes, we all hope it's a learning experience for Frye. And, frankly, we're pulling for him. But Frye must recognize that until he starts approaching his job as a professional, he'll never carry the gravitas accorded of a NFL veteran.