DAILY NFL PLAYER UPDATE #23 07/29/2009

Jay Cutler (QB)
Bears spokesman Scott Hagel denied Wednesday that Brian Urlacher used an epithet to describe Jay Cutler to Bobby Wade in Las Vegas this past weekend.

"It's all nonsense," Hagel said. "I've talked to everybody [but Wade]. There is absolutely no truth to any of it." Hagel did admit that Urlacher and Wade spoke in Las Vegas, but he's convinced Jay Cutler wasn't discussed: "I don't know what they talked about other than what was not said."

Source: Chicago Sun Times



Jimmy Smith (WR)
Former Jaguars WR Jimmy Smith pleaded no contest to three charges stemming from his April DUI arrest.

Smith was charged with DUI, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was placed on 12 months probation ordered to complete 50 hours of community service while incurring fines and court costs.

Source: AP


Devin Thomas/Malcolm Kelly (WR)
Jason Campbell believes people are "going to be surprised, real surprised" about the development of second-year wideouts Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly.

The Redskins desperately need at least one of the two to step and draw attention away from Santana Moss and Chris Cooley. Campbell said Thomas is "getting some things figured out" after a lost rookie season. With a strong summer, he'll have a chance to push Antwan Randle El into the slot.

Source: Washington Post



Michael Vick (QB)
Redskins coach Jim Zorn left open the possibility of revisiting the Michael Vick situation in the future.

Zorn said he wishes Vick the best and is sure he will return to the NFL. "I would just say it won't be with us, at least at this juncture," added Zorn. Redskins GM Vinny Cerrato has denied an interest in Vick, but many league insiders still see D.C. as Vick's prime landing spot.

Source: AP



Darrius Heyward-Bey (WR)
Darrius Heyward-Bey remained unsigned as of the start of Raiders training camp Wednesday.

DHB is in the Bay Area and hopes to have a deal in place in time to be at Thursday's practice.

Source: Oakland Tribune



Brett Favre (QB)
Brett Favre told SI's Peter King Tuesday night that he truly believes his career is over, but he's leaving the door open to a return in the future.

"I truly, truly believe it's over," said football's Hamlet. "But if someone calls Nov. 1, who knows?" Favre plans to keep practicing with Oak Grove High in Mississippi and will continue to work out, though he says it's not with intention of keeping in playing shape. He says he made his decision to jilt the Vikings because he knew he wouldn't enter the season at 100 percent, and that's no way to enter a 16-game grind.

Source: SI.com



Braylon Edwards (WR)
Braylon Edwards was reportedly placed on the NFI list because he failed to arrive to training camp four days earlier than non-injured veterans.

Coach Eric Mangini notified Edwards that he would have to report Monday because he missed practice during mandatory minicamp, reportedly due to an ankle injury incurred while playing basketball. When Edwards finally reported on Tuesday, he failed his physical. The Browns have the option to fine him for arriving late, but they're not commenting on the situation. There's been no update on Edwards' injury status.

Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer



Jim Johnson (Defensive Coordinator)
Former Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson has passed away at age 68 after losing a battle with melanoma skin cancer.

Johnson began his career as Notre Dame's secondary coach after a brief playing career, and went on to coach for 31 years. He was most notable as the Eagles' defensive boss from 1999-2008. Known for relentless blitzing, Johnson's up-tempo defenses helped Philadelphia to five division titles. Between 2000 and 2008, Johnson's units ranked second in the NFL in sacks (390). He's survived by his wife Vicky, two children, and four grandchildren.

Plaxico Burress (WR)
The lawyer for ex-Giant Plaxico Burress confirmed that his client will testify on felony gun charges before a Manhattan grand jury Wednesday.

The New York City District Attorney is pushing for Plax to serve "at least" two years behind bars. Burress' lawyer, Benjamin Brafman, has all but admitted that the sides have been negotiating a plea deal that would result in prison time for Plax. Burress is trying to avoid that, but the odds of him doing so (much less play in the NFL this season) appear to be very slim. Burress' remaining hope is that the grand jury won't indict him after his Wednesday testimony.

Source: Mike Garafolo on Twitter

Brett Favre To Stay Retired

Brett Favre has decided to stay retired and not join the Minnesota Vikings this season, the quarterback told NFL Network's Rich Eisen in a text message.

Vikings coach Brad Childress told The Star Tribune in Minneapolis that Favre didn't want to put himself through the grind of a 19th NFL season.

"I just think it was a rare opportunity to explore a Hall of Fame quarterback who had background in the NFC and in this division (with the Green Bay Packers)," Childress told The Star Tribune. "He knows our system inside out ... This doesn't change anything about how I feel about our football team."

Favre retired for a second time after playing for the New York Jets last season. He had surgery in May to alleviate a torn biceps tendon in hopes of extending his career with the Vikings.

The Vikings begin training camp on Thursday with a quarterback competition between Sage Rosenfels and Tarvaris Jackson.

Click here for full article

DAILY NFL PLAYER UPDATE #22 07/27/2009

Josh Freeman(QB)
The Bucs reportedly feel "very good" about their chances of getting first-round pick Josh Freeman signed before the start of camp Friday.

Discussions to this point have been "productive and amicable." Freeman would benefit from getting to training camp on time as he vies for snaps with vets Luke McCown and Byron Leftwich. He's the clear underdog in the battle.

Source: NFL.com



D.J Hackett (WR)
The Lions will try out free agent wideout D.J. Hackett on Friday, according to NFL Network's Jason La Canfora.

They must have not been blown away by Keary Colbert and John Standeford at OTAs. Hackett could put pressure on starting split end Bryant Johnson.

Source: Jason La Canfora on Twitter



Quinn Sypniewski (TE)
Despite waiving him Monday, Ravens coach John Harbaugh says free agent TE Quinn Sypniewski is "still very much in our plans down the road."

He'd better hope Sypniewski isn't claimed off waivers, then. A 27-year-old with dominant blocking skills, Sypniewski will generate interest if he's healthy.

Source: Jamison Hensley on Twitter


Hollis Thomas (DT)
The Lions have reportedly been in discussions with free agent DT Hollis Thomas.

Thomas is expected to decide between four teams this week. We knew the Eagles were one, and the Lions look like another. Detroit has to protect itself with starting NT Grady Jackson at risk of a four-game StarCaps suspension.

Source: Detroit News



Michael Vick (QB)
After learning of his conditional reinstatement to the NFL Monday, free agent Michael Vick issued a statement expressing "gratitude" and "appreciation" for the commissioner's decision. Vick admitted his "terrible mistakes" and said he understands playing football "is a privilege, not a right, and I am fully thankful." "Finally, I want to sincerely thank Coach (Tony) Dungy for being in my corner," Vick added. "And I look forward to him being a mentor for me." ESPN's John Clayton reports that Vick's phone is "already ringing." Time will tell if anything is serious.
Source: Profootballtalk on NBC Sports



Josh Cribbs (KR)
Despite Browns KR Josh Cribbs' pledge to report to training camp on time, he is reportedly "adamant" that he will sit out regular season games if the club doesn't upgrade his contract.

Cribbs reportedly at least needs "significant progress" to be willing to suit up for Week 1. The Browns haven't shown much urgency, but that could change after they get their draft class signed. They have well over a month to appease Cribbs, who is severely underpaid at just $620,000 in 2009 salary.

Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer



Brandon Marshall (WR)
Brandon Marshall reported to Broncos training camp on time Monday, and his agent is in Dove Valley.

The Broncos asked Marshall to be at camp three days early because of his hip injury, and he didn't want to risk $15,888 in daily fines. This is a good sign that Marshall is willing to do what the organization asks even though he wants to be traded. We'll see how long the good faith lasts.

Source: FOX31 KDVR



Leon Washington (RB)
Sports Illustrated's Peter King predicts that Jets RB Leon Washington will approach 300 combined touches this season.

Explained coach Rex Ryan: "He had six touchdowns on 73 carries last year. That number has to go up -- drastically. And it will." Washington will have to add about 100 touches from scrimmage to reach that total. While we agree that he'll have a larger role, King's prediction is on the optimistic side. Thomas Jones is coming off an All-Pro season, and rookie Shonn Greene will be added to the mix.

Source: Sports Illustrated




Marvin Harrison (WR)
A second man is now alleging that free agent receiver Marvin Harrison shot him during a shootout in Philadelphia last year.

Robert Nixon, 33, claims he was caught in the crossfire when Harrison shot at Dwight Dixon on April 29, 2008. The new suit alleges "assault, battery negligence, and reckless misconduct." The emerging accusations against Harrison may be affecting his market value. He's getting next to no interest.

Source: ESPN.com



Knowshon Moreno (RB)
First-round picks Knowshon Moreno and Robert Ayers remained unsigned and were no-shows for Denver's first training camp workout Monday.

The Broncos are believed to be close to a deal with Ayers, but would be helped if some other picks around his draft slot (18th overall) signed first. Moreno could use all the practice he can get to beat out Correll Buckhalter.

Source: Associated Press



Reggie Bush (RB)
Reggie Bush and girlfriend/actress Kim Kardashian have decided to split, according to People Magazine.

They dated for two years, but reportedly couldn't keep it going long distance. Bush can now focus on his recovery from microfracture surgery, while Kardashian can get back to making sex tapes with little-known R&B singers.

Source: People Magazine



Michael Crabtree (WR)
Profootballtalk.com is hearing that the 49ers "won't flinch" on Michael Crabtree's reportedly exorbitant contract demands.

The agents of players around Crabtree's draft slot (No. 10) are hoping San Francisco satisfies his top-three pick contract request so they'll get more for their clients. But that reportedly isn't going to happen. The 49ers have the receiver depth to withstand a Crabtree holdout, but Josh Morgan and Isaac Bruce will likely be starting on opening day if it extends long enough.

Source: Profootballtalk on NBC Sports

Vick Reinstated, Can Participate Immediately

"Michael Vick has been conditionally reinstated by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, who will then decide on the quarterback's full reinstatement for Week 6 of the regular season.

Vick can participate without delay in preseason practices, workouts and meetings and can play in the final two preseason games -- if he can find a team that will sign him.

Once the season begins, Vick may participate in all team activities other than games, but could play as soon as October.

Goodell called a news conference for late Monday afternoon."

Click here for full article

Owens Weighs in on Vick's Return

"Buffalo Bills receiver Terrell Owens is disappointed in the way NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is considering Michael Vick's reinstatement now that the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback has served a 23-month prison sentence for his role in an illegal dogfighting ring.

Owens called the possibility of an additional Vick suspension to start the season, possibly for four games, "ridiculous" while meeting with reporters after Sunday morning's training camp session at St. John Fisher College.

"The Michael Vick situation, I think, is unfortunate," Owens said. "I think the way the commissioner is handling it is unfair to Michael Vick. I think he's done the time for what he's done. I don't think it's really fair for him to be suspended four more games. It's almost like kicking a dead horse in the ground.

"A lot of the guys around the league need to speak up. I think the players' union needs to step in because the guy's already suffered so much, and to add a four-game suspension onto a two-year prison sentence, I mean, that's ridiculous."

League sources told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio and Chris Mortensen on Thursday that Goodell is expected to announce details of Vick's conditional reinstatement, allowing the three-time Pro Bowler to sign with an NFL team.

Owens wouldn't speculate whether Vick will be signed by another NFL team, but claimed Vick deserved the opportunity.

"Why shouldn't he?" Owens said. "There's a number of guys around the league that have done far more worse things than that and gotten a second chance. So I don't see why he shouldn't.""

Click here for full article

DAILY NFL PLAYER UPDATE #21 07/26/2009

Vonnie Holliday
The Dolphins reportedly haven't ruled out re-signing free agent Vonnie Holliday, despite releasing him in March.

Holliday drew some interest from Denver and Detroit immediately after he was cut, but it's been quiet since. Holliday, 33, would obviously be a short-term solution for anyone, but he's coming off a very productive season.

Source: Palm Beach Post


Cadillac Williams
Cadillac Williams' recovery from a torn patellar tendon is reportedly ahead of schedule.

We're still not sure he's going to be on the Week 1 roster. The Bucs have three backs ahead of Williams (Derrick Ward, Earnest Graham, Clifton Smith) they consider capable of contributing in a variety of ways, and we doubt they would've paid Ward substantial money if there were plans to rely on Cadillac.

Source: National Football Post



Yamon Figurs
The Baltimore Sun suggests that third-year return man Yamon Figurs could be on the roster bubble in Ravens camp.

The Ravens made Figurs the 74th overall pick after he ran the fastest forty time at the 2007 Combine, but he adds little on offense and is in danger of losing his return duties. If Baltimore doesn't want him, perhaps Al Davis will.

Source: Baltimore Sun


Derrick Burgess
Beat writer Jerry McDonald indicates in his blog that the Raiders are serious about not starting DE Derrick Burgess this year.

McDonald expects Burgess, who barely practices anyway due to constant nagging injuries, to only see about "12-15 snaps" a game behind Greg Ellis and whoever wins Oakland's other starting defensive end job. This is going to hurt Burgess' IDP value immensely. His tackle numbers will be way down.

Source: Oakland Tribune



Alphonso Smith
Broncos agreed to terms with rookie CB Alphonso Smith, the No. 37 overall pick, on a four-year contract.

Mike Nolan's staff envisions Smith as a playmaking nickel back behind aging Champ Bailey and Andre' Goodman, with the potential to eventually take over one of the starting positions. Smith is small (5'9") and has below average speed, however. Covering the slot may prove his niche long term.

Source: Drew Rosenhaus on Twitter



Jeff George
Free agent Jeff George reiterated that he still wants back in the NFL.

"I feel like I can still play, and if there's someone out there to give me a shot, that would be wonderful," he said. "Age is only a number. It's about how you feel and how you feel when you keep throwing." George has gotten next to no interest because he's 41 and wasn't even very good when he was young.

Source: Illinois Sports Headquarters



Hollis Thomas
Free agent DT Hollis Thomas is reportedly considering signing with four teams, and plans to make a decision this week.

We know the Eagles are one. Other suitors could be the Lions, Falcons, Rams, and Vikings (who may be without starting DTs Pat and Kevin Williams for the first four games). Thomas, 35, can add depth at the nose tackle spot.

Source: Profootballtalk on NBC Sports



Michael Crabtree
According to beat writer Matt Maiocco, "there are indications that it will be a challenge for the 49ers to get (Michael Crabtree) signed before the start of training camp."

The sides are still far apart in contract negotiations and Crabtree's agent, Eugene Parker, is known for holdouts. Crabtree wants to be paid like a top-five player because that's where he "should have" gone. Crabtree is already far behind the 49ers' other receivers as he missed the entire offseason program (foot). This could be more trouble.

Source: Santa Rosa Press Democrat

DAILY NFL PLAYER UPDATE #20 07/25/2009

Mike Thomas
Jaguars rookie WR Mike Thomas has reportedly been "penciled in" for the slot receiver job.

The fourth-round pick got his chance when Dennis Northcutt was traded to the Lions. Thomas is tiny but will catch some quick-hitters from David Garrard and impressed with his speed in the spring. He won't be much of a fantasy factor unless something happens to Torry Holt or Mike Walker.

Source: Profootballweekly.com


James Hardy
Bills placed WRs James Hardy and C.J. Hawthorne on active/PUP.

Hardy, last year's second-round pick, is recovering from January ACL surgery. Hawthorne had an undisclosed surgery on his leg during June minicamp action. Both players can re-join the active roster as soon as they pass a physical. Considering the Bills depth at wide receiver, we still expect Hardy to open the season on the PUP list.

Source: buffalobills.com



Vaughn Martin
Chargers signed fourth-round DE Vaughn Martin to a four-year contract.

Martin, out of the University of Western Ontario, was the first Canadian collegiate underclassman ever to declare himself eligible for the draft. Born in Jamaica, Martin didn't take up football until 10th grade. He's an interesting developmental project.

Source: The Globe and Mail



Josh Cribbs
Josh Cribbs will reportedly be in attendance for the start of Browns training camp Friday.

There have been conflicting reports about whether or not Cribbs would hold out, but he couldn't even bring himself to stay away from minicamp. Even if he does report on time, this situation has the potential to turn ugly if the Browns don't tear up his old contract.

Source: Akron Beacon-Journal



Everette Brown
Panthers signed second-round DE Everette Brown to a four-year, $4.3 million contract, according to Scout.com. The deal includes $2.7 million in guarantees.

The Panthers gave up their 2010 first-round pick to select the ACC sack leader. Brown will play a situational passing-rush role this season, and he's insurance in case the team can't re-sign Julius Peppers next offseason.

Source: Scout.com



Evander Hood
Steelers agreed to terms with first-round DT Evander "Ziggy" Hood on a five-year, $11.3 million contract. The deal comes with $6.1 million in guarantees and a base package of $8.7 million.

The Steelers now have all of their rookies locked up. The defending champs can afford to take it slowly with Hood since they have Aaron Smith and Brett Keisel as returning starters. Keisel is a free agent after the season, so Hood could step in next year.

Source: Profootballtalk at NBCSports.com

Super Bowl Would cap off Bailey's Career

"Champ Bailey is going on decade No. 2 in the NFL. In Bailey's first 10 seasons, 15 different teams have played in the Super Bowl. None of whom have been any of Bailey's teams. "The older I get, the more it bothers me," Bailey said. After five seasons with the Redskins and now in his sixth season with the Broncos, Bailey has become recognized as one of the league's top defensive backs despite his absence from the league's greatest stage. Bailey had a streak of eight consecutive Pro Bowl seasons snapped last year because of a groin injury suffered in Game 7 against Josh McDaniels' Patriots. Does coming off his injury-plagued, non-Pro Bowl season heighten Bailey's anticipation for 2009?"

Click here for full article

Goodell to allow Vick To Sign With A Team

"Michael Vick could be on his way back to the NFL if a team signs him before, during or following a four-game suspension levied by Commissioner Roger Goodell.

ESPN.com reported Thursday that Goodell issued a conditional reinstatement for the suspended former Falcons quarterback that will allow Vick to attend training camp if he signs with a team, but will still suspend Vick for the first four games of the 2009 season.

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello, however, told The Associated Press on Thursday no decisions on Vick's future have been made.

"This is a serious matter," Aiello said in an e-mail. "We are engaging in a careful and thoughtful process."

Vick, fresh from serving 23-months in federal prison for dogfighting, met with Goodell Wednesday, hoping to restart his NFL career, according to published reports.

The two met Wednesday afternoon in Allendale, N.J., ESPN.com reported, citing a unnamed league source.

Sport Illustrated reported on its Web site that Vick and Goodell were seen departing from Buckley Petersen Global Inc. around 4 p.m.

Vick left in a Cadillac Escalade; Goodell in a BMW 10 minutes later, according to SI.com. Eyewitnesses described the two as having "somber" looks on their faces.

Aiello declined to confirm the meeting when contacted by The AP.

On Tuesday, Vick met one-on-one with NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith.

That same day Goodell, who suspended Vick indefinitely, said he'll make a decision "in the near future" on reinstating him.

In order for Goodell to reinstate Vick, he must show remorse and convince him and the public that he is reformed.

The animal rights group PETA issued a statement Thursday reiterating its resistance to Vick rejoining the NFL unless he first undergoes a psychological evaluation."

Click here for full article

Favre anguished over whether to play again

"And on the 87th day he was anguished.

Two-plus months after the Brett Favre-to-the-Vikings soap opera began, and days before a decision was expected to be announced, ESPN reported Thursday that the 39-year-old quarterback "remains anguished about whether he should come out of retirement and join the team."

Did anyone really think the saga would end today?

ESPN's latest report suggests that any decision by Favre probably won't come until next week and it even raises doubt about whether he will meet his self-imposed deadline of July 30. That is the drop-dead day for Vikings players to report to training camp in Mankato, with the first practice scheduled for the following day.

Citing a source, ESPN's Ed Werder reported that Favre is conflicted about returning for his 19th season in large part because of phone calls and text messages he has received from Vikings players urging him to be their QB. The report mentioned Adrian Peterson, Jared Allen and Steve Hutchinson.

Several Vikings have been in some form of contact with Favre in recent months, and ESPN reported Favre is beginning to feel a sense of obligation to Vikings players and the coaching staff because of their involvement in trying to get him to play.

"If it weren't for the involvement of the Vikings players directly telling Brett they want him on their team, I think he might have already decided against playing again," the source told Werder."

Click here for full article

DAILY NFL PLAYER UPDATE #19 07/24/2009

Luke McCown
The Bucs' starting quarterback job is "Luke McCown's to lose," according to ESPN.com's Pat Yasinskas.

Most reports indicate a two-horse race with McCown and Byron Leftwich. If this report is true, Leftwich will have to leave no doubt in preseason action that he's the better quarterback.

Source: ESPN.com



Drew Bennett
Ravens agreed to terms with WR Drew Bennett on a one-year contract for the veteran minimum.

Bennett stood out among D.J. Hackett, Chris Hannon and Justin Brown during Friday morning's workout. The Ravens didn't hear the answer they wanted from Derrick Mason, so they're forced to cover themselves with a veteran receiver. Right now, Bennett is likely second behind Mark Clayton for fantasy potential among Baltimore receivers. That would obviously change if Mason reconsiders his retirement.

Source: Profootballtalk at NBCSports.com



Harry Douglas
ESPN.com's Pat Yasinskas believes Harry Douglas will push Michael Jenkins for a starting job.

We're skeptical on this one. Jenkins is one of the best blocking receivers in the league, which comes in handy in a run-heavy offense. He's also coming off a career year and a contract extension. Douglas was fantastic in OTAs, but he's likely ticketed for slot duties again.

Source: ESPN.com



Dexter Jackson
Last year's second-round WR/KR Dexter Jackson will need to have a "heck of a training camp" to even make the Bucs roster, according to ESPN.som's Pat Yasinskas. Jackson failed to record a catch last season, and his calling card -- kick returning -- has fallen into the hands of Clifton Smith. Even if he manages to stay on the roster, he'd likely be inactive on game days.
Source: ESPN.com



DeAngelo Smith
Cowboys agreed to terms with fifth-round S DeAngelo Smith on a four-year contract.

Smith was strictly a cornerback at Cincinnati, but the Cowboys envision both him and Alan Ball as a versatile enough to also handle safety. An option to return punts, he'll concentrate mostly on special teams as a rookie.

Source: Dallas Morning News



Deon Butler
Seahawks signed third-round WR Deon Butler to a four-year contract.

Butler stood out as the team's most impressive rookie in May minicamp action, and his 4.3 speed adds much-needed homerun hitting ability to the receiving corps. Due to backup at split end this season, he could spell the end of Deion Branch if he continues to impress.

Source: Seattle Times



Matt Wilhelm
Chargers released ILB Matt Wilhelm.

The Chargers have been unhappy with Wilhelm's work against the run, and he was benched for Tim Dobbins and Carlos Polk while dealing with a calf injury at mid-season last year. Dobbins will be the favorite to step in opposite Stephen Cooper, with Kevin Burnett likely handling nickel duties. The Patriots, hurting for depth inside, may be interested in Wilhelm

Source: chargers.com



Ben Roethlisberger
NFL insider Adam Schefter reported on his Twitter account that what he's hearing about Ben Roethlisberger's sexual assault allegations "look very good" for the quarterback.

"Let's just say that sometimes there are things you hear and know, and the things I'm hearing and knowing look very good for Ben," wrote Schefter. Our favorite league insider added that ESPN's handling of the Big Ben story "will be proven 100% correct."

Source: Adam Schefter on Twitter



James Casey
Texans agreed to terms with fifth-round TE James Casey on a four-year contract.

The Texans have talked about using Casey at several positions, but he's likely to be limited to special teams as a rookie. He's fourth on the depth chart at tight end and will need to work on his blocking to move up. Ultra-productive at Rice, Casey could be Owen Daniels' successor if contract problems can't be ironed out with the Pro Bowler.

Source: Houston Chronicle



Nate Davis
49ers signed fifth-round QB Nate Davis to a four-year contract, including a $150,300 signing bonus.

Davis, a developmental project for the Niners, is going to have to make an impression this summer if the Niners are going to carry him over third quarterback Damon Huard. The practice squad is a more likely scenario.

Source: Matt Maiocco on Twitter



Vonta Leach
Texans FB Vonta Leach was arrested earlier this week in Lumberton, North Carolina and charged with a misdemeanor simple assault.

He allegedly hit another man in the face with a beer bottle and kicked him during a fight. Leach claims, however, that he was accosted and simply defended himself. He was jailed in Robeson County and released on a "written promise." His court date is scheduled for August 18.

Source: The Robesonian