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Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Harvin sent home ill

"Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin, the 22nd pick in the first round of the April draft, was sent home from the NFL rookie symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., after becoming ill, according to the league's website.

The former University of Florida standout reported for the start of the four-day event Sunday afternoon, but the medical staff suggested he return home after he told them he wasn't feeling well. Harvin and his family live in the Gainesville area.

Organizers of the symposium officially excused Harvin; all 256 draft picks were in attendance on Sunday, according to symposium officials. The website, Pro Football Talk, reported that Harvin might return to the symposium today if he feels better. The symposium features a variety of seminars designed to help rookies adapt to life in the NFL.

Harvin's agent, Joel Segal, did not return a call or text message seeking a comment Monday night."

Eagles give McCoy Four Year Deal

"LeSean McCoy agreed to a four-year contract with the Eagles yesterday, ensuring that Brian Westbrook's projected backup will be in training camp. The terms were not disclosed.

A second-round draft pick, the elusive running back from Pittsburgh is seen as an insurance policy for Westbrook, who underwent ankle surgery June 5.

"I think he can do the same types of things that Brian can do," general manager Tom Heckert told the Eagles' Web site. "We think he's an all-around player, and we think he can step right in and help us out. He's a great receiver out of the backfield.""

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #6 06/30/2009

Vikings- Percy Harvin
Vikings first-round pick Percy Harvin was "sent home and officially excused" from the NFL's Rookie Symposium on Monday.
Harvin exhibited flu-like symptoms and was excused by a doctor. It's his second bizarre health-related issue this offseason. He was hospitalized for dehydration prior to the Vikings' rookie minicamp. A severe cynic would say the Vikes should've seen the writing on the wall when red flags about Harvin's attitude and character surfaced pre-draft, but it's probably nothing.
Source: Profootballtalk.com

Broncos- Brandon Marshall
The Broncos reportedly intend to stand firm on their refusal to honor Brandon Marshall's trade demand, unless they're "blown away" with an offer.
Team brass is currently on vacation and "not fretting" about the situation. They can only hope Marshall shows to Dove Valley on time. Since he wants a new contract and doesn't trust team doctors to handle his hip rehab, however, Marshall doesn't seem like a sure thing to be there on the first day of camp.
Source: ESPN.com

Cardinals- Darnell Docket
After appearing on NFL Network Monday night, Darnell Dockett posted on his Twitter account that he'd like to be paid like a top-five defensive tackle.
Well, we think it's his Twitter. There have been a lot of phonies going around. Dockett, slated to earn $3.5 million in 2009, was called a top-five tackle by NFL Network's Jamie Dukes and Rod Woodson. It doesn't make Cardinals management any more likely to upgrade his deal that's good through 2011.
Source: Darnell Dockett on Twitter

49ers- Scott Mckillop
Rookie fifth-rounder Scott McKillop is expected to be the 49ers' future "Ted" linebacker.
The Niners were reportedly just as excited about drafting McKillop as they were with Michael Crabtree. The rookie out of Pittsburgh is expected to play "Robin" to Patrick Willis' "Batman" once Takeo Spikes moves on.
Source: Sacramento Bee

Falcons- Michael Vick
The attorneys for suspended free agent Michael Vick will be in court Tuesday to update a judge on the progress of their client's bankruptcy plan.
Vick's two attempts to present a viable plan to get out of debt were previously rejected. The lawyers won't be formally presenting their new plan yet, but if the judge sounds positive their next attempt could come shortly.
Source: Associated Press

Lions- Cliff Avril
Cliff Avril will reportedly have to beat out Dewayne White to win the Lions' starting right defensive end job.
Starting Avril and White at the same time would give Detroit its most pass rush potential, but the new coaching staff seems satisfied with Jared DeVries at left end. White has the tools to move there full time, but surprisingly didn't practice on the strong side all spring. He and Avril will probably end up rotating on the weak side, which would hurt both of their IDP stats.
Source: MLive.com

Giants- Jay Alford
Justin Tuck predicts that DT Jay Alford will be the Giants' breakout defensive lineman this season.
Alford, who had three sacks on limited snaps in just 10 games last season, will play in sub-packages this year. Tuck indicates Alford will play next to him at tackle in the nickel, but that role is probably Rocky Bernard's. Either way, Alford is another example of New York's league-best depth on the line.
Source: Newark Star-Ledger

Vikings- Jasper Brinkley
Vikings signed fifth-round LB Jasper Brinkley to a four-year contract.
Brinkley was one of the biggest hitters to come out this year, but he doesn't offer much versatility as a pure inside linebacker without movement skills to play outside. He'll be groomed as an option behind MLB E.J. Henderson.

Browns- Willie McGinest
Free agent OLB Willie McGinest reiterated in an interview with The Sporting News that he wants to play another season.
"I've definitely got that itch. I feel good," McGinest said. "But it has to be the right situation." Now 37, McGinest's body has obviously been breaking down over the last two seasons, and it's surprising he'd indicate he could be picky. McGinest has generated no known interest this offseason.
Source: The Sporting News



Monday, June 29, 2009

Gary Kubiak Likes What He Sees

"The five-week period in which Texans coaches can work with players on the practice field ended Wednesday with the last day of minicamp.

Owner Bob McNair, general manager Rick Smith and coach Gary Kubiak left the Methodist Training Center knowing they have more talent than at any time in the team's eight-year history.

They also know fans have playoffs-or-bust expectations.

"The playoffs are why I came here," Kubiak said. "It's why I do what I do.

"We have high expectations. We're a better team than any time since I've been here. We're not going to be satisfied with another (8-8 record). I want more, a lot more. The players do, too.

"I'm looking forward to the journey because I like the guys I'm taking it with. We have tremendous character on this team."

When the Texans report for training camp July 30, their goals are to reduce turnovers and improve the red-zone offense and in all areas of defense. They've been 12-4 at home and 4-12 on the road over the last two years.

"The biggest progress we made last year was on offense (third in yards, 17th in scoring), but we still need to get better," Kubiak said. "This season, we have to get our defense caught up with our offense."

The Texans will have at least two new starters on defense in left end Antonio Smith and strong-side linebacker Brian Cushing, their first-round draft choice out of USC.

Cushing to start

"Rookies have to be big contributors to our team, but I don't imagine you're going to see three or four of them starting because we're a better team," Kubiak said. "Cushing has been a starter since the day he stepped off the bus. We're very happy with him.

"The (offseason program) went very well. The team's attitude is very positive. The young guys got more work than they ever have, and they made a lot of progress.

"The players worked real hard in the weight room. The leaders have taken charge. We have some great competition. I have to make sure, as a coach, that we get the reps evened out because we're going to have some tough decisions to make.""

Cowboys Romo To Play With Tiger Woods

Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has no problem getting tee times. At next week's AT&T National, he will be playing in the Wednesday pro-am with tournament host Tiger Woods. Then he'll compete in the American Century Championship celebrity tournament, which also includes former Cowboys RB Emmitt Smith, on July 17-19 at South Lake Tahoe, Nev.


Click here for full article

Roger Goodell Leaning Toward Indefinitely suspending Burress

Yahoo Sports reports that NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is "leaning toward" indefinitely suspending free agent Plaxico Burress.
Yahoo's Jason Cole also says it looks like free agent Michael Vick's indefinite suspension will be continued. A similar stance to the one Goodell took with Donte' Stallworth is expected in both cases. Cole says there's a "reasonable" chance that Vick won't play at all in 2009, and that Plax's suspension could be levied even before his legal issues play out. Burress wouldn't be worth a flier pick in fantasy leagues if he receives an indefinite ban.
Source: Yahoo Sports

Extended Regular Season in 2011?

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell stated a vote to extend the League's regular season may occur in May.

NFL officials and franchise owners are now discussing the future direction of the NFL at its annual meeting, and the possible extension of the regular season to 17 or 18 games per team would certainly bring more revenue opportunities for the sport.

Apart from revenue, it will give fans a whole lot more viewing enjoyment with an extra few games to watch.

According to reports:
A new collective bargaining agreement with the players' union must be secured in the next year or the NFL faces an uncapped 2010 season and a potential labour stoppage.

The parties would have to agree to additional player compensation for the extension measure to be enacted and that would likely see a cut in the number of pre-season encounters to keep the total number of games at 20 per team.


The only down side to this is--it is unlikely to come in before the 2011 season.

See these stories for details:

NFL eyes extension of season
- The Denver Post

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #5 06/29/2009

Chiefs- Tank Tyler
Tank Tyler is projected to start at nose tackle in the Chiefs' new 3-4 defense.
At 6'2/306, he's small for the position. It's hard to imagine Tyler commanding any double teams, or the Chiefs' run defense being remotely stout in 2009.
Source: Kansas City Star

Raiders- Darrius Heyward-Bey
Raiders first-round pick Darrius Heyward-Bey says his balky hamstring is still only at "80 percent."
The injury cost him nearly all of OTA season. Heyward-Bey predicts he'll be ready for the start of training camp in a month, but he's going to be behind Chaz Schilens and Johnnie Lee Higgins in their competition to start.
Source: NFL.com

Jaguars- Zach Miller
Jaguars signed sixth-round TE Zach Miller to a four-year contract.
Miller impressed onlookers during minicamp season, but he's still a pretty long shot as an undersized (6'4/233) converted quarterback coming from Nebraska-Omaha. The Jags will try to mold Miller into a pass-catching backup for Marcedes Lewis, who's never taken the next step as a receiver.

Giants- Tarvis Beckum
Giants signed third-round TE Travis Beckum to a four-year contract.
A Kellen Winslow clone, Beckum exhibited dominant pass-catching skills in Wisconsin's pro-style offense before a fractured fibula cut his career short. We would've been higher on Beckum for this year had he not missed most of spring practice with a balky hamstring. His role is currently uncertain.

Chiefs- Tyler Thigpen
Tyler Thigpen now says he's satisfied with being the Chiefs' backup quarterback behind Matt Cassel.
Thigpen was the fantasy QB2 overall behind only Drew Brees from Week 8 on last season, but he realizes that Cassel is the Chiefs' guy now. "They've got a lot of money invested in (Cassel)," Thigpen said. "I'm going to support him and do anything that I can to make him better. I'm a team player." Thigpen will be an immediate waiver wire pickup if Cassel goes down.
Source: Spartanburg Herald-Journal

Steelers- William Gay
According to The Football Scientist K.C. Joyner, William Gay of the Steelers gave up the fewest yards-per-attempt of any CB in the league last year.
Gay's 3.4 YPA was one of the primary reasons Pittsburgh was comfortable letting free agent Bryant McFadden walk. Gay will be the team's starting left corner this year. He'll likely still be tested often playing opposite Ike Taylor.
Source: New York Times

Lions- Bryant Johnson
Even though the Lions traded for WR Dennis Northcutt, Bryant Johnson is expected to remain the No. 2 wideout.
Johnson has never lived up to his first-round pick status, failing to crack 800 receiving yards in any of his six seasons. It's clear the Lions need to upgrade the spot opposite Calvin Johnson, but it doesn't look like Northcutt, Ronald Curry, or Derrick Williams will take that job away from Bryant Johnson.
Source: ESPN.com

Giants- Bears, Jets all but rule out Plaxico Burress
The Bears have "pretty much ruled out" free agent Plaxico Burress, reports ESPN.com's John Clayton.
Clayton added that the Jets are "almost in that same boat," and the Bucs GM expressed a similar sentiment over the weekend. No team is expected to sign Plax before the beginning of training camp. Potentially interested teams are in a holding pattern until commissioner Roger Goodell hands down his ruling on a suspension.
Source: ESPN.com

Jaguars- Trade Dennis Northcutt for Gerald Alexander
Jaguars agreed to trade WR Dennis Northcutt to the Lions in exchange for S Gerald Alexander. The deal is contingent on both players passing physicals and will not be official until Monday.
While the trade shows the Jags' high regard for their three late-round receivers, it also may signal a lack of faith in Lions third-round pick Derrick Williams, who recently came down with a hamstring injury. Northcutt is a candidate to return punts for the Lions and will likely battle Williams and Ronald Curry for slot receiver duties. Jags GM Gene Smith did well to get a young safety for Northcutt, who is grossly overpaid and turning 32. It's a shock that anybody wanted him for more than the minimum salary, but these are the Lions.
Source: Detroit Free Press

Giants- Plaxico Burress
Yahoo Sports reports that NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is "leaning toward" indefinitely suspending free agent Plaxico Burress.
Yahoo's Jason Cole also says it looks like free agent Michael Vick's indefinite suspension will be continued. A similar stance to the one Goodell took with Donte' Stallworth is expected in both cases. Cole says there's a "reasonable" chance that Vick won't play at all in 2009, and that Plax's suspension could be levied even before his legal issues play out. Burress wouldn't be worth a flier pick in fantasy leagues if he receives an indefinite ban.
Source: Yahoo Sports

Falcons- Michael Vick
Suspended free agent Michael Vick is in danger of missing the entire 2009 season, according to Yahoo Sports' Jason Cole.
"(Vick) is not just walking out one day and playing again," a source close to Vick said. "Yeah, he served his time, but he has to prove himself. When the commissioner talks about wanting to see remorse, he’s not kidding." Vick is currently on indefinite suspension. He has yet to present a bankruptcy plan in federal court that any judge has deemed doable.
Source: Yahoo Sports

Bills- Shawn Nelson
Rookie Shawn Nelson is not likely to claim the Bills' starting tight end job, according to the team's official website.
Nelson is practicing as a wide receiver and probably won't see much action on early downs in his first season. He could lead all Bills tight ends in receptions, but won't approach TE1 value as a mere third-down option.
Source: buffalobills.com

Eagles- LeSean McCoy
Eagles agreed to terms with RB LeSean McCoy, the No. 53 overall pick, on a four-year contract.
The first second-rounder to sign, McCoy will get a deal just north of last year's 53rd pick, Limas Sweed ($3.27M/4 years). McCoy has work to do with his blitz protections and inside running, but he's a ready-made receiving back with extremely quick feet and nifty open-field moves. Brian Westbrook's re-draft owners will want to reach into the middle rounds for McCoy as Philadelphia's starter recovers from more knee surgery and an ankle procedure.
Source: Drew Rosenhaus on Twitter

New Ravens cornerback Foxworth wise beyond his years

"His parents, his girlfriend and his teammates all say the same thing about Domonique Foxworth. The Ravens cornerback might look like a 26-year-old, he might run like a 26-year-old, but he thinks and conducts his life like a 40-year-old - always has. His parents considered him more responsible than his brother, who is two years older. His NFL mentor, Champ Bailey, considered him the levelheaded one in their relationship. Whether the subject is President Barack Obama, the role of a black athlete in modern society or the NFL players union's treatment of retired players, Foxworth can deliver a well-crafted opinion.

His ability to react, not with emotion but with a cool assessment of facts and priorities, has carried him through a complicated early career. On the verge of reporting to his first Ravens training camp next month, Foxworth already has endured the violent death of a beloved teammate, frustrating stints on the bench, an abrupt trade and free agency.

In the face of such obstacles, he helped establish a teen center in his murdered friend's name, became the youngest member of the NFL players union's executive committee and earned a $28 million deal with his hometown team.

It would be shortsighted to say he's worldly and thoughtful compared with other football players. Foxworth is worldly and thoughtful compared with most people.

"He's very methodical about everything he does," says Foxworth's father, Lorinzo. "When things come up, you're not going to get an off-the-wall reaction from him. There's going to be a thought-out process that goes into it."

Foxworth's mother, Karen, laughs at her husband's words. "That is directly descended from his father," she says. "They're both old men in young men's bodies."

Lorinzo Foxworth was in the midst of a 20-year Army career when Domonique was born in Oxford, England, in 1983. The family moved to the Baltimore area as he reached kindergarten age and settled in Randallstown. Domonique and his elder brother, Dion, built their existence around sports."

Rod Woodson's Road To Canton

"On occasion, a player comes along who does not belong in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a player so dominant in his sport that he deserves a higher honor.

A player such as Rod Woodson.

Who says? How about these guys:

"Without a doubt,'' Bill Cowher said, "he'll go down as one of the greatest players to ever play the game.''

"If you tell me Rod Woodson is your top defensive back of all time," said Dick LeBeau, "you will get no argument from me because he certainly merits that."

"He was a player you get once in a long time," said Dan Rooney.

And more ...

"He, in my opinion, might be the greatest athlete that Chuck Noll ever drafted," said Mel Blount. "And that's saying a lot when you think of all the Hall of Famers. This guy was special."

"He was one of those rare top draft picks who probably even exceeded what people thought he would be," said Tom Donahoe.

And, from Tony Dungy on coaching Woodson his first two seasons with the Steelers: "You could see the specialness. We felt he'd be a multi-year Pro Bowler. You could see that from the first day."

Woodson, who will be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 8, ranks among the best defensive backs in NFL history -- if not the best -- by testimony, by performance and by gaudy statistics."

Nfl Broadcast Boot Camp Teaches Players Xs and Os

"Loading...Related NewsPhoto Gallery2009 Draft: Meet the new Jets and GiantsVideoFalse start! NFL boot camp bloopersJets lineman Damien Woody looked right at home. Hunched in the huddle with other players awaiting orders, Woody had done this a thousand times.

But the guy barking the orders was a broadcasting pro - not a quarterback - and when the huddle broke and the camera rolled, the mishaps began.

"Cut!" Woody yelled. "I messed up. Let's try it again."

So it went at the NFL Broadcast Boot Camp, a four-day crash-course in broadcasting the NFL and NFL Films ran last week in Mt. Laurel, N.J.

It was aimed at current and former NFL players who want to trade in their helmets and shoulder pads for a career in the booth.

The week consisted of intensive instruction in Broadcasting 101 - from sideline reporting, film editing, green room prep and wardrobe setup.

Woody was among 24 players in the boot camp, including Giants linebacker Danny Clark, ex-Giants wide receiver Joe Jurevicius, retired ex-Jets tight end Kyle Brady, and current stars Matt Light of the New England Patriots and Maurice Jones-Drew of the Jacksonville Jaguars.

More impressive than the lineup of players was the group of instructors, including CBS' James Brown, Fox's Curt Menefee, and ESPN's Ron (Jaws) Jaworski.

"They really put us through the ringer," said Brady, who retired in 2007 and has worked for NFL Europe. "It's been eye-opening."

Woody offered a similar take: "They really throw you into the fire here. Yesterday was longer than a two-a-day in training camp. It was a grind."

The grind has proven fruitful since the boot camps began in 2007.

Of the 40 players who took part in the program in its first two years, 21 have landed broadcasting jobs, including Tim Hasselbeck (ESPN) and Ross Tucker (Sirius Satellite Radio).

Vaughn Bryant, the NFL's manager of player development, said it's part of the effort to help players adapt to life after football.

"The goal is to give players a good glimpse of all the disciplines in broadcast media and give them some training and foundational pieces (to) launch a career," Bryant said. "It's all a learning experience; guys learn what type of professional they can be, what their expertise can be. Some guys are going to learn they don't have the disposition to do it."

The camp's nightly critique sessions were rough.

"There was kind of an 'American Idol' feel to it. We definitely got put on blast a little bit," Jurevicius said. "I got lambasted pretty good. But when guys like James (Brown) and Jaws are taking time to help you learn the business, if we don't soak it up, we've got some problems.""

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Knowshon Moreno Wins Upper Deck Dance Contest

Upper Deck had its 2009 NFL Rookie Premiere Photo Shoot at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on May 16. And it appears its touchdown dance contest was the hit of the event.

According to Upperdeckblog.com, new New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez was one of the show stealers.
    When I informed USC QB Mark Sanchez the night before about Upper Deck’s TD Dance competition, he just looked at me and said, “I don’t dance. What am I gonna do?” I told him he’d dance on Saturday and that a Michael Jordan signed jersey was at stake. “Hmmm, maybe,” he said.

    When Sanchez’s two-man group came around on Saturday, which included New York Jets teammate Shonn Greene (RB, Iowa), he remembered our conversation and seemed genuinely excited. When he finished his interview, where he mentioned former Jets QB Brett Favre has always been one of his idols, he hurried over to the end zone and went right to work. He even incorporated Greene to help him perform an end zone “football birth” for the competition. With Greene lying flat on his back with a towel strewn over his legs, Sanchez served as delivery doctor and - calling out QB-like signals - pulled a football from between Greene’s legs. The crowd went wild, right up until Sachez spiked the newly born baby football!
If it wasn't for helping out his teammate, Sanchez would have received an F for his dunk celebration, which was so very 1980. Of course, maybe he was going for the retro look. The winner? Denver Broncos rookie running back Knowshon Moreno, from Georgia. Moreno's winning prize? A Michael Jordan-signed red Chicago Bulls jersey (with a rumored retail price of $1,699.99). Moreno is wearing his winnings (backwards) at the end of the four-minute video.

Competing were Mark Sanchez, Matt Stafford, Mohamed Massaquoi, Michael Crabtree, Nate Davis, Glen Coffee, Ramses Barden, Knowshon Moreno, Andre Brown, Donald Brown, Aaron Curry, Josh Freeman, Shonn Greene, Percy Harvin, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Tyson Jackson, LeSean McCoy, Stephen McGee, Hakeem Nicks, Brandon Pettigrew, Javon Ringer, Jason Smith and Chris Wells (with help from Brian Robiskie).




In order to compare these rookies with other NFL players, here's a link to ESPN's top 10 celebrations. Looks like a few of the rookies borrowed their dances from the pros.

Broncos' Graham Gives Back To Hometown

"What does it mean to Daniel Graham to be able to work with all those Denver-area kids at his annual football camp?

You didn't have to ask him Friday morning. All you had to do was look at him.

The Denver kid who graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and played at Colorado and owns Nuggets season tickets and followed his dad's footsteps to the Broncos was wearing . . . what else? . . . a Rockies cap. No word on whether he had an Avs license-plate holder on his car.

"I don't really recall any football camps growing up around here," Graham said. "It's just something I wanted to do to give back, to help these kids, especially in my hometown. I was fortunate to have a father who played in the NFL, someone I could look up to and model myself after. I wanted to show my support for these kids, just like he did for me."

If you know the Grahams, you knew Camp DG was going to be a family affair. Tom, the patriarch, played linebacker for the Broncos and a few other NFL teams in the '70s. He was there, as was Daniel's mother, Marilyn, and his twin brother, Joshua, among others.

Then there was Daniel's honorary uncle, George Martin, the former Giants defensive end who played with Tom at Oregon back in the day. Not that Martin is the giving type, but he spent nine months in 2007-08 walking from New York City to San Diego on a Journey for 9-11, raising $5 million for the heroes of the post-attack calamity. "

Suggs says he's close to signing a new deal

"Pro Bowl linebacker Terrell Suggs said Friday that he is nearing a long-term deal with the Ravens, a contract that surprisingly wouldn't make him the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL.

The league deadline to reach a new contract with players who have received the franchise tag is July 15. If no deal can be struck, Suggs would play under the franchise tag for a second straight season, earning $10.2 million this year.

"We are close to an agreement. We just have a few little things to work out," Suggs told The Baltimore Sun. "I don't want to go into great detail, but it's things like the years of the agreement and incentives, but the basic framework has been done."

Suggs, 26, is considered one of the rising defensive stars in the NFL. Some NFL observers have contended that Suggs would test the free-agent market in March, when he would become one of the top players available.

But the Ravens' top pass rusher said Friday that he would "be very surprised if this contract isn't done soon." He also denied speculation that this contract will make him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the NFL.

"No, that's not true," he said. "But that's cool if people want to believe that. Being one of the highest-paid players has never been my motivation. I just wanted to be paid what is fair, what I think I've earned."

A Ravens spokesman had no comment.

There has been speculation that Suggs is looking for a contract similar to the one given in 2007 to the Indianapolis Colts' Dwight Freeney, whose six-year, $72 million deal ($30 million guaranteed) made him the highest-paid defender in league history at the time."

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #4 06/28/2009

Jets- Brett Favre
Adrian Peterson said he would welcome Brett Favre "with open arms" should the Vikings sign the future Hall of Famer.
Only Jim Brown and Eric Dickerson have rushed for more yards in their first two seasons than Peterson. It's scary to think how explosive he will be if a healthy Favre can keep the eighth and ninth defenders out of the box.
Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune

Browns- Braylon Edwards
After an offseason spent squarely on the trade block, Braylon Edwards insists he remains committed to the Browns.
"I never said I wanted to go," Edwards said. "The Browns tried to put a trade out there ... I never took it personal." We expect the Browns offense to struggle this season, but Edwards' talent still makes him a good bounce back candidate in fantasy leagues.
Source: nfl.fanhouse.com

Packers- Jordy Nelson
According to the Green Bay Press Gazette, Jordy Nelson was "quietly was one of the standouts of the offseason."
The Packers boast one of the deepest receiver corps in the league, so Nelson won't be much of a fantasy factor. More of a possession receiver, last year's second-rounder is expected to battle big-play threat James Jones for the No. 3 receiver job.
Source: Green Bay Press-Gazette

Buccaneers- Josh Freeman
Bucs GM Mark Dominik reiterated that rookie Josh Freeman isn't a realistic candidate to begin the season as the starting quarterback.
"The ultimate goal is to let Josh Freeman sit back and learn," Dominik said. "He's a 21-year-old quarterback who came out as a true junior. You'd like for him to grow and mature into his role and not be forced into it." According to the GM, the race between Luke McCown and Byron Leftwich remains "extremely close," and the starter may not be named until the end of preseason action.
Source: St. Petersburg Times

Jags-Mike Thomas
Beat writer Michael Wright confirmed that the Jaguars' confidence in their rookie receivers was a primary factor in the Dennis Northcutt trade.
Fourth-rounder Mike Thomas is a prototypical slot receiver with great short area quickness and after-the-catch running ability. Fifth-rounder Jarett Dillard is a polished receiver with eye-popping college production, outstanding leaping ability and great hands. He would likely be the choice to start should Mike Walker or Torry Holt suffer an injury.
Source: Florida Times Union

Packers- Matty Flynn
Matt Flynn reportedly remains "well ahead" of Brian Brohm for the Packers backup quarterback job.
This is coming from beat writer Pete Doughtery, but there have also been reports of Brohm showing improvement this offseason. Last year's disappointing second-rounder will have to shine in preseason action to unseat Flynn.
Source: Green Bay Press-Gazette

Giants- Plaxico Burress
Bucs GM Mark Dominik said he has no interest in signing Plaxico Burress at this time.
The Bucs reportedly called Plax's agent earlier this offseason, and Plax later expressed an interest in playing in Tampa. The team is obviously leery of Burress' legal troubles, but it could be inferred that they may revisit the subject after the commissioner's final ruling.
Source: St. Petersburg Times

Falcons- Michael Vick
The Patriots are reportedly not interested in signing Michael Vick, even as a 'Wildcat' quarterback.
This was never a realistic option, but that didn't stop many in the national media from tabbing the Pats as a likely landing spot. Vick will be looking for a chance to play a larger role, and the Pats' offensive scheme doesn't suit his style.
Source: National Football Post

Raiders- Jamarcus Russell
JaMarcus Russell's work ethic continues to be called into question, according to the National Football Post's Michael Lombardi.
Russell scored surface points with his plans to host an extra minicamp for his receivers, but that good impression didn't last long. Russell reportedly went AWOL on the last day of the team's minicamp after urging teammates to step up their efforts and finish out the OTAs on a positive note.
Source: National Football Post

Packers-Patrick Lee
Packers second-year CB Patrick Lee has reportedly made significant progress this offseason.
He still isn't going to be more than a fourth corner, but Green Bay needs its young CBs to develop behind over-30 starters Charles Woodson and Al Harris. Lee, one of the Packers' three second-round picks last year, finished his rookie campaign with just two tackles and a breakup in five appearances.
Source: Green Bay Press-Gazette

Lions- Jeff Backus
Lions LT Jeff Backus has surrendered an average of 10 sacks per season over the last three years.
League average tackles average about five sacks allowed per year, so this puts in perspective how bad Backus has been. The Lions reportedly don't know which Backus they'll get this year, but he's likely to continue to struggle if Daunte Culpepper wins the starting quarterback job. Culpepper is a sack waiting to happen with a long release and no remaining mobility.
Source: MLive.com

Browns- Alex Hall
Terry Pluto of the Cleveland Plain Dealer believes that Alex Hall can be the Browns' best pass rusher.
A seventh-round pick from little St. Augustine last year, Hall flashed with three sacks and two forced fumbles in his first season. He's in the mix with David Bowens and perhaps David Veikune to start opposite Kamerion Wimbley.
Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer

Chiefs- Javarris Williams
Seventh-round pick Javarris Williams admits he's had trouble picking up the Chiefs' playbook at minicamps.
Williams is struggling with blitz pickup, which is always a hurdle for rookies. "At Tennessee State it was a lot more simple," he admitted. He's in the mix with Kolby Smith and Dantrell Savage to be the team's No. 3 back.
Source: Nashville Tennessean

Ravens- Ravens Offense
Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome says he eventually plans to return to his home state of Alabama, although in what capacity he isn't sure.
"At some point I'm coming back home," says Newsome, 53, who's established as one of the NFL's top GMs. "I want to tailgate and be around the fans. I have not had the chance to experience being a fan." It's speculative to say he'd want the job, but the Alabama A.D. position (currently held by Hal Moore) may open soon amid sanctions for a textbook-selling scandal.
Source: Collegefootballtalk.com

Bills- Bills Offense
Owner Ralph Wilson says the Bills do not anticipate adding games to be played in Toronto to the regular season schedule anytime soon.
Wilson will wait "two or three years" before expanding Buffalo's outside the U.S. schedule because he isn't sure it'll be a success. The Bills currently play once in Toronto in the regular season and three preseason games there. They're "hosting" the Jets at the Rogers Centre in Week 13 this year.
Source: Associated Press

Saturday, June 27, 2009

NFL commissioner turns focus to Michael Vick's future

"Commissioner Roger Goodell says he is beginning to focus on evaluating Michael Vick's future in the NFL.

But Goodell said Thursday his decision on the former Atlanta Falcons star quarterback will come "in due time" and not necessarily before the season begins.

"I haven't given a timeline," on a decision about reinstatement, Goodell told The Associated Press during a telephone interview.

Goodell says he has yet to speak to Vick, and won't sit down with him until after Vick is released July 20 from home confinement and federal custody.

Vick is currently suspended from the league because of his involvement in a dogfighting ring."

Starks signs $26 million four-year deal with Steelers

"The Steelers have been saying since March that signing offensive tackle Max Starks to a long-term contract was one of their top priorities.

They finally made it happen Tuesday.

The Steelers and Starks agreed to a four-year deal that can be worth as much as $26.3 million and includes a $10 million signing bonus.

Starks, 27, had signed a one-year, $8.451 million deal at the end of February. His new contract, which replaces the old one, allows him to stay with the team that drafted him beyond the 2009 season.

In addition, it provides the Steelers with some stability at left tackle where they don't have an experienced player behind Starks.

"It also gives us (salary) cap flexibility to possibly get some more things done," Steelers director of football operations Kevin Colbert said.

Indeed the Steelers still have a number of key players who will be unrestricted free agents after the 2009 season. The list includes nose tackle Casey Hampton, running back Willie Parker, defensive end Brett Keisel, free safety Ryan Clark and kicker Jeff Reed.

Tight end Heath Miller and right tackle Willie Colon are also going into the final year of their contract. The two, however, will only become unrestricted free agents next February if the owners and NFL Players Association agree on a collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

The two sides have been without a CBA since the owners opted out of the previous deal in May 2008. If they don't agree on a new CBA, Miller and Colon will be restricted free agents following the 2009 season.

When asked what the Steelers may do next in regard to locking up their own players to long-term deals, Colbert said the Starks signing "gives us the flexibility to at least explore possible signings. I wouldn't say we've determined anything other than that."

Starks, a third-round pick out of Florida in 2004, has started at both right and left tackle for the Steelers.

He lost his starting job at right tackle to Colon in 2007 and opened last season as a backup to Colon and starting left tackle Marvel Smith."

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #3 06/27/2009

Bengals- Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer admitted to reporters last week that his arm strength still needs some work.
Palmer has an idea of how to fix it: "Throw. "It’s just like when a track guy needs to get faster. You don’t do 5,000 squats, you run and run some more. To get your arm in shape you throw and continue to throw. So I will be throwing all summer long as well as in training camp." He missed 12 games last season with an elbow injury.
Source: Dayton Daily News

Cardinals- Edgerrin James
According to agent Drew Rosenhaus, Edgerrin James received an offer from the Cardinals earlier this offseason but turned it down.
James is on the hunt for regular carries. "We will be selective," Rosenhaus said. "We want to make sure for Edge that he goes to a good situation. He would like an opportunity to have a significant role and a great opportunity for playing time. We may wait until right before camp and see what teams have the greatest need. We may wait until during or after camps when teams are dealing with injuries."
Source: Profootballtalk.com

Lions- Jon Jansen
Jon Jansen is open to playing at any position on the offensive line for the Lions this season.
Lions coach Jim Schwartz said the team will give him a look at guard, and even center. Jansen seems fine with the uncertaintity of it all. "I want to make myself as marketable as possible," he said Friday. "You've got to play all five spots if you're going to be a backup.
Source: MLive.com

Browns- Joe Jurevicius
The Browns predictably deny that they were negligent in causing and handling Joe Jurevicius' staph infection.
Remember when this was a nice story of a hometown guy taking less money to play for his favorite team? The Browns plan to "vigorously defend" themselves, so it sounds like we're headed for a trial.
Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer

Ravens- Marcus Smith
Marcus Smith is the favorite to be Baltimore's fourth receiver this season.
He hasn't impressed the local scribes, but Smith is a good bet for significant playing time this season. The guys in front of him - Derrick Mason, Mark Clayton, and Demetrius Williams - all face injury concerns.
Source: BaltimoreRavens.com

Friday, June 26, 2009

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #2 06/26/2009

Giants- Plaxico Burress
Agent Drew Rosenhaus now says five teams are interested in Plaxico Burress.
"I expect more teams to enter the mix over the next few weeks as well," Rosenhaus all too predictably tweeted. Rosenhaus' announcement came just minutes after an ESPN report that Commissioner Goodell is beginning a probe of Burress. Coincidence? We think not.
Source: Rosenhaus Sports on Twitter

Packers- Greg Jennings
Greg Jennings' three-year, $26.35 million extension comes with an $11.25 million signing bonus.
Including his $5 million salary, Jennings stands to make $16.25 million in 2009. The upfront money plus the ability to hit free agency in 2013 makes Jennings' deal more player-friendly than previous reports would indicate.
Source: Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel

Titans- Chris Johnson
Chris Johnson defended himself from criticism that he's a "me first" player after attempting to separate from LenDale White and change his nickname to "Every Coach's Dream."
"I know people are saying I want to be an individual, that I’m not a team guy," Johnson said. "All I want is a new nickname, and it’s in fun. I am an entertaining guy." Johnson, a coaching staff and teammate favorite, remains on great terms with White (and is now dubbing LenDale "Every Coach's Nightmare"). Fantasy owners shouldn't worry about Johnson blossoming into a full-blown diva.
Source: Nashville Tennessean

Redskins- Brian Orakpo
Brian Orakpo remains penciled in as the starting SAM linebacker for the Redskins, according to beat writer Paul Tenorio.
There had been doubts about the decision to have a college end transfer to linebacker in a 4-3 defense, but the 'Skins are following through with the plan. Orakpo will stay at linebacker on early downs and move to defensive end in obvious passing situations.
Source: Washington Post

Texans- Chester Pitts
Texans LG Chester Pitts (elbow surgery) expects to be healthy for training camp.
Pitts said his elbows are feeling good after undergoing a scope on each of them this offseason. The Texans will bring their offensive line back intact from last season.
Source: houstontexans.com

Jags- Dennis Northcutt to Lions
According to ESPN.com's John Clayton, the Lions have acquired WR Dennis Northcutt from the Jaguars.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #1 06/25/2009

Redskins- Todd Collins
Todd Collins would reportedly be a candidate for release if he loses the No. 2 quarterback job to Colt Brennan this summer.
Collins is set to make $3 million, which is cost prohibitive in a third quarterback. The Redskins signed Mizzou's Chase Daniel as an undrafted free agent, and his fate is tied to Brennan beating out Collins.
Source: Washington Post

Redskins- Albert Haynesworth
In an interview with Sirius NFL Radio's Adam Schein, Albert Haynesworth revealed that he left money on the table from the Bucs to sign with the Redskins.
"They offered me a whole lot more, and even with their tax situation, it could have been 20 percent more," said Haynesworth. When asked why he would choose the Redskins, Haynesworth said the 'Skins have "a lot of pieces together" plus the D.C. market. The Bucs did have a surfeit of cap space, but Haynesworth's perspective tends to be skewed.
Source: St. Petersburg Times

Falcons- Mike Vick
Commissioner Roger Goodell said a decision on Michael Vick's future will come "in due time" and may not be finalized before the season begins.
Goodell said he hasn't given a timeline and won't sit down with Vick until after Vick's July 20th release from home confinement. Vick remains under indefinite suspension, so a delayed decision would obviously hamper his ability to catch on with an NFL team this summer.
Source: Associated Press

Seahawks- Owen Schmitt
Seahawks FB Owen Schmitt was arrested for suspicion of DUI Saturday in Black Diamond, Washington.
His blood-alcohol content measured between 0.151 and 0.161. Schmitt looked like Seattle's fullback of the future when he was picked in the fifth round last year, but the arrest won't help him beat out Justin Griffith, a veteran of coordinator Greg Knapp's zone-blocking scheme. It's Schmitt's first law run-in as a pro, so the West Virginia product should avoid suspension.
Source: Seattle Times

Bucs- Josh Freeman
Bucs GM Mark Dominik downplayed QBs coach Greg Olson's assertion that Josh Freeman might be ready to start in Week 1.
"It doesn’t hurt for him to sit a little," the GM said. "Let these other guys really battle out for the quarterback spot. Let this young guy develop." The Bucs haven't even begun contract talks with Freeman, and teams sometimes cater to mini holdouts for QBs they'd rather not play right away. Dominik would also lose leverage by admitting Freeman could start on opening day.
Source: WQYK Tampa

Vikings- Vikings to pursue Harrison?
According to Charley Walters of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, there is "buzz" that the Vikings are pursuing free agent Marvin Harrison.
Walters essentially writes a gossip column and puts this under the heading "Don't Print This," so it obviously has to be taken with a grain of salt. He says Marvin would get "a one-year, low-end deal" to compete with Sidney Rice at flanker. The signing would make a lot of sense, but it isn't a reliable source.
Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press

Chiefs- S Mike Brown
Chiefs signed S Mike Brown, formerly of the Bears.
The KC Star's report says Brown "could" swipe Jarrad Page or Bernard Pollard's starting job, but he's more likely to be a third safety. It's the role he's best suited for at age 31 with a long history of unreliable health. A onetime Pro Bowler (2005) and Chicago's all-time leader in defensive TDs (7), Brown can play both safety spots. There's a lot to like about this pickup.
Source: Kansas City Star


Childress Says Favres 'Pain Free'

"Vikings fans rooting for the team to sign Brett Favre got more reasons to cheer on Friday: Coach Brad Childress said Favre is "pain-free right now" during a radio interview in which he lavished praise on the future hall of fame quarterback.

It was an important update on the status of Favre's surgically repaired arm. The widespread belief is that Favre will sign with the Vikings as long as his arm wouldn't prevent him from playing at a high level.

Childress' effusive comments serve as the latest mounting evidence that the Vikings want the marriage to happen, and Favre appears more ready, at least physically, to walk down the aisle.

"My understanding is that he is pain-free right now," Childress said during an interview with KFAN-AM 1130. "Does he have the endurance and the stamina in that arm yet? He doesn't know that yet. It's no different than grabbing a golf club for the first time during the year when you rip around 18 holes, and you wake up the next day and your side hurts. You say, 'Geez, I haven't felt that muscle in a while.' So he's got to build some endurance in that and see if he thinks he can get it back to where he wants to get it."

Childress again said that it is not a foregone conclusion that Favre will sign to play for the Vikings, but he spoke glowingly about him.

Vikings defensive end Ray Edwards said during a recent interview with ESPN that Favre could help the team win but that some of Favre's actions last season while with the New York Jets, including dressing in a separate area away from his teammates, wouldn't be welcomed in Minnesota. Edwards said he doesn't want Favre to bring his "prima-donna attitude" because he believes that "will break a team apart."

Childress told KFAN he wasn't bothered by Edwards' comments. "I think it was all in jest. Defensive linemen, usually by nature, hate quarterbacks, and that's OK."

Childress added: "I talked to (former Viking) Tony Richardson, who was (Favre's) teammate at the Jets. He had nothing but great things to say about him. Did I get into, Did he have a separate locker? It's hard for me to see that. Of course, I know how Winter Park is set up. I think he'll be a great locker room guy. He's probably one of the better practical jokers out there over the course of 16 years, and he's not afraid to give it to anybody, and I think he'll be a tremendous teammate, as well."

Childress said Favre understands the benefits of going through a full training camp with a team, and more pressing than getting to know the Vikings' offense would be getting to know his new teammates and their abilities on the field.

Don't expect the Favre signing to happen until close to training camp, though. Childress plans to leave Monday for a weeklong fishing trip to Alaska with Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid. And Childress' daughter, Cara, is getting married July 11 in the Twin Cities area.

Reports of Favre's diva attitude with the Jets would seem to run contrary to how he was perceived around the NFL by opponents and teammates throughout most of his career.

"I think what that is is that's a guy that plays with passion, to a degree wears his emotions on his sleeve," Childress said. "You really don't really like quarterbacks that ride a roller coaster. Obviously his standard was usually pretty good. Could he get wild? Could he throw some interceptions? Sure he could. But he plays the game with enthusiasm and with excitement. There's kind of a boyishness even though he's approaching 40 years old." "

Vontae Davis Says He Wasnt Arrested.

"Whether it was a case of mistaken identity or identity fraud or both, no one can say for sure.

Dolphins rookie Vontae Davis just wants people to know he was not arrested on June 9 in Champaign, Ill., where he starred at the University of Illinois.

A report to that effect surfaced Tuesday morning in The Daily Illini, the campus newspaper. Citing a report filed by Champaign police officer Michael A. Talbott, the newspaper reported Davis had been arrested at 6:47 p.m. and charged with unnecessary vehicular noise and driving without a valid license.

The arrest summary, a copy of which is available online at the City of Champaign Web site, lists a Vontae Ottis Davis and a home address of 920 Emerson Street in Washington, D.C. Both the name and address belong to the Dolphins rookie.

However, Davis and the Dolphins say he was in Davie attending organized team activities on both June 9 and June 10.

"I talked to Vontae, and he told me he was here all day on June 9," said Harvey Greene, Dolphins senior vice president of media relations. "It was an OTA day, followed by a rookie symposium that we know kept him in the building until at least 3:30 [p.m.]. There was no way he could have been in Illinois at 6:40 [p.m.] or whenever that happened."

According to Greene, Davis was back at the Dolphins' complex by 7 a.m. on June 10 for another workout.

"He told me he wasn't there [in Illinois]," Greene said. "Our own people told me he wasn't."

Davis, reached on his cell phone, said he hadn't even been in Champaign since February.

"It's a crazy thing," he said. "When I heard about it, it hit me: 'Oh, God.' It was something I couldn't prepare for. It just came out of nowhere."

According to Davis, his wallet was stolen before he left school to turn pro. He canceled all his credit cards and reported the theft, but theorized it's possible someone who looks similar to him was still using his old driver's license as identification."

Twists in the Peppers Saga

"The five-month Julius Peppers saga took two dramatic turns Wednesday.

First, the Carolina Panthers announced their Pro Bowl defensive end had finally signed his offer sheet and would play for them this season. Then, late in the evening, agent Carl Carey said Peppers was satisfied with his contract situation, and also open to considering a possible long-term deal.

For about two years, Peppers has resisted the Panthers' attempts to sign him to a contract extension, turning down offers that would have made him the NFL's highest-paid defensive player.

Peppers' change of heart apparently occurred after recent meetings with team officials.

"Julius has always had tremendous respect for the individuals in the organization, and he had the opportunity to sit down face to face and talk with the people he's had great respect for," said Carey. "Sometimes it takes a discussion to begin to understand each other's perpectives."

Carey's comment amplified a statement Peppers released through Carey earlier in the day.

"I've had positive and productive discussions with the organization," Peppers said in the statement. . "I am optimistic and focused as I look forward to the upcoming NFL season."

The Panthers have a three-week window to discuss a contract extension with Peppers because of the NFL's July 15 deadline for all teams to sign players who were given the franchise player designation to a long-term deal.

If Carolina doesn't sign Peppers to an extension by then, they would have to wait until after the 2009 season to resume contract talks.

The Panthers likely would have to make Peppers the highest paid defensive player and top the deals signed this offseason by Oakland cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (three years, $45.3 million) and Washington defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (a seven-year deal that is widely viewed as a four-year, $48 million contract)."

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