DAILY NFL PLAYER UPDATE #13 07/09/2009

Redskins- Shaun Alexander
Free agent Shaun Alexander says he hasn't ruled out a return to the NFL.

The rest of the league has, but Alexander isn't ready to admit it. The 32-year old says he's had "preliminary talks with a few teams." Alexander spent part of last season with the Redskins, finishing with 11 carries for 24 yards.

Source: Mobile Press-Register

Steelers- Heath Miller
Profootballtalk.com picked up recent "scuttlebut" that the Steelers could make Heath Miller a salary cap casualty.

PFT then contacted a source with "intimate knowledge" of the team's decision making, however, and found that there's no truth to it. First of all, the cap savings to slash Miller's $800K salary would be minimal. Secondly, Miller is one of the top-ten all-around tight ends in the game. And third, the Steelers have all along been more likely to extend Miller's deal than terminate it.

Source: Profootballtalk.com

Ravens- Joe Flacco
Football Scientist K.C. Joyner says Joe Flacco was the most improved rookie in the league during the second half of 2008.

Joyner says Flacco's decision making and vertical passing improved sharply down the stretch despite a tougher schedule. This all sounds promising, but keep in mind that coordinator Cam Cameron rarely allowed Flacco to throw inside the numbers, dramatically reducing the risk of turnover. We'll see how good Flacco is this season, when he's (presumably) allowed full QB duty.

Source: New York Times

Jets- Brett Favre
The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Vikings trainer Eric Sugarman flew to Hattiesburg, MS on Wednesday to meet with free agent Brett Favre.

It's Sugarman's second visit to check on Favre's physical state; the two also met in mid-June. A Vikings source tells the Star-Trib that Favre's May biceps surgery "was a complete success" and that his arm will be 100% by the start of training camp. There's next to no doubt he'll be a Viking before then.

Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune

Lions- Brandon Pettigrew
The Lions were reportedly "pretty happy" with rookie Brandon Pettigrew's showing during OTAs and minicamps.

Pettigrew made a few "outstanding grabs" and showed good focus and competitiveness. The Lions won't ease Pettigrew in; he's going to be an every down player on day one. Just don't expect more than mid-range TE2 value.

Source: MLive.com

Bengals- Chase Coffman
Bengals rookie TE Chase Coffman says he's "very close to being 100 percent" recovered from his senior-year foot fracture.

Coffman was cleared for 11-on-11 minicamp drills in late June and says he's still building back muscle in his lower body. Considering his injury and lack of blocking experience, we're still not expecting much in Coffman's first year.

Source: Dayton Daily News

Lions- Aaron Brown
Lions sixth-round pick Aaron Brown reportedly showed explosiveness as a ball carrier during spring practices.

Brown is fighting just to make the roster, but he's probably got an edge on old regime holdover Aveion Cason. The spot will come down to special teams play.

Source: Detroit Free Press

Cowboys- DeMarcus Ware
Cowboys OLB DeMarcus Ware expressed confidence Thursday that he'll be signing a long-term extension shortly.

Ware also confirmed that he won't hold out of training camp, despite entering a contract season. "(There's) nothing that's going to stop me from doing what I do best, and that's rush the passer and play well," said the reigning sacks leader. "There's no deadline at all. I picture myself a lifetime Cowboy."

Source: Dallas Morning News

Patriots- Wes Welker
Wes Welker recently changed agents from Vann McElroy to David Dunn of Athletes First.

Welker is signed through 2011, but he could easily argue that he's underpaid. No one has as many receptions over the last two years and Welker's '09 salary is just $1.65 million. He led the Pats in catches and receiving yards in 2008. Still, the the agent switch reportedly isn't aimed at getting a new deal.

Source: Boston Globe

Bears- Greg Olsen
Bears tight end coach Rob Boras said Greg Olsen will line up anywhere in the offense to try to create mismatches against a safety or linebacker.

All reports out of Chicago say Olsen and new QB Jay Cutler are working together well and are getting on the same page. Olsen is ultra-talented and has a real good chance at a breakout season.

Source: chicagobears.com

Buccaneers- Brian Clark
Bucs wide receivers coach Richard Mann said that Brian Clark was the front-runner for the team's No. 3 WR job.

Kelly Campbell and Dexter Jackson are in the mix as well, but none figure to have much of a fantasy impact. The situation will get shaken out at training camp.

Source: buccaneers.com

Giants- Brandon Jacobs
Giants RB Brandon Jacobs took a shot at Cowboys QB Tony Romo, saying "I don't think he's that good a passer, to be honest with you."

Jacobs made the comments on ESPN 1050 radio in New York. Everyone seems to be down on Romo these days, and Jacobs' words will only fan the flames of the rivalry.

Source: ESPN 1050 Radio

Dolphins- Vontae Davis
Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland said that there had been just "preliminary discussions" about first-round pick Vontae Davis' contract.

Talks with second-round pick CB Sean Smith are expected to start this week. The Dolphins are building some nice depth in the defensive backfield. Most rookies taken in the first or second round won't be signed until training camp gets closer.

Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Seahawks- Walter Jones
Seahawks LT Walter Jones (microfracture surgery) was spotted running off to the side during minicamp.

According to Mike Sando of ESPN.com, Jones' biggest worry is his conditioning. Jones says the rehab on his knee is going well, but we'll have to wait until he gets some contact to be sure. He's obviously a key to the Seahawks' offense.

Source: ESPN.com

DAILY NFL PLAYER UPDATE #12 07/08/2009

Browns- Brady Quinn
ESPN's James Walker confirms that Brady Quinn currently has the lead in the Browns' quarterback competition.

Walker says Quinn had a "decent, albeit not spectacular" spring, but Derek Anderson "struggled most of the way" before missing the last two OTA days with a calf injury. It looks like Quinn will take the first snap in training camp.

Source: ESPN.com

Jaguars- Tony Pashos
Incumbent Tony Pashos has a "significant" lead in his battle at right tackle with rookie Eben Britton.

It looks like Britton will only be a swing guard/tackle reserve in his first year, as he's not as skilled a run blocker as Pashos yet. Britton, the No. 39 pick overall, could move into the first team when Pashos turns 30 in 2010.

Source: jaguars.com

Jaguars- Sean Considine
Free agent pickup Sean Considine was reportedly the best looking safety on the field during Jaguars Organized Team Activities.

Jags.com suggests that Reggie Nelson's job could be in danger after the club acquired Gerald Sensabaugh. The reality is Considine is an athlete and bound to look good in shorts. He's never been durable when the pads go on.

Source: jaguars.com

The United Football League
The United Football League will have several different rules than the NFL, including giving both teams at least one possession in overtime.

It's like the college rule, which we're guessing will come to the big leagues soon enough. Quarterbacks under pressure will also be able to ground the ball in or outside the pocket (David Carr seems a perfect fit), and the UFL will have no "tuck rule." Penalties for touchdown dancing are more lenient, and instant replays will be decided in the booth, not by on-field referees.

Source: Associated Press

Bengals- Andre Smith
SI.com's Ross Tucker expects the Bengals to use Andre Smith at right tackle permanently, rather than move him to the left side in time.

We actually believe Smith's best fit might be guard, but No. 6 overall was still quite high to pick a long-term right tackle. At 6'4 and lacking elite athleticism, Smith does profile better to the strong side if he's going to stay at tackle.

Source: SI.com

Packers- Jermichael Finley
Offensive coordinator Joe Philbin isn't ruling out Jermichael Finley beating out Donald Lee for the Packers' starting job.

"Jermichael is a much better player," Philbin said. "A year ago he was a 21-year-old kid from Texas. He didn’t know first base from third base. We're excited, he's making very good progress." Lee will play often either way because he's a better blocker, but Finley offers much more vertical ability.

Source: Green Bay Press-Gazette

Ravens- Steve McNair
Preliminary test results show that Steve McNair's mistress, Sahel Kazemi, fired the gun found at the scene of their deaths.

Tennessee state medical examiner Dr. Feng Li conducted autopsies on the bodies and found gunpowder on Kazemi's hands. The residue was traced back to the gun found under Kazemi's body, which she bought days earlier. Nashville police haven't made it official yet, but most signs continue to point towards a murder-suicide. More evidence will be revealed later this afternoon.

Source: Nashville Tennessean

Patriots- Tom Brady
Patriots tight end Ben Watson says Tom Brady (ACL, MCL surgery) "has looked great" this offseason and worked "really hard."

"He's definitely poised to come back and have a great year," Watson added. "We're looking forward to having him back." We haven't heard a negative report on Brady's knee in six months. He appears right on track for Week 1.

Source: ESPN.com

Browns- Martin Rucker
Browns second-year TE Martin Rucker saw consistent first- and second-team reps during offseason OTAs.

He often ran in a two-tight end set with likely starter Robert Royal. Rucker is Cleveland's top receiving TE prospect, with only Steve Heiden (ACL surgery) to beat out for second string. Interestingly, Rucker is lined up in the slot in his photo on the Browns' website. The club needs help at that position.

Source: clevelandbrowns.com

Raiders- JaMarcus Russel
NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reports that JaMarcus Russell has followed through on his promise to hold a private and voluntary passing camp with his receivers and it is currently ongoing.

La Canfora says Russell paid for the receivers' flights and calls it "a positive step" for the underachieving former first-round pick. Still, that this is a big deal just magnifies the overwhelming concern about Russell's work habits to this point. The Raiders are going to remain a run-first team no matter what Russell does in the offseason with Will Franklin and Chaz Schilens.

Texans- Dunta Robinson
The Texans remain far apart in contract discussions with unsigned franchise player Dunta Robinson, according to NFL Network's Jason La Canfora.

La Canfora expects Robinson to play the season on his one-year, $9.957 million tender. Still, he skipped mandatory offseason work and isn't a lock to show for the start of training camp. The Texans guarded themselves some by drafting mid-round corner help, but they need their top cover guy back badly.

Falcons- John Abraham
NFL Network's Steve Wyche passes along "rumblings" that Falcons RE John Abraham might want a new contract.

Wyche says Abraham won't target Albert Haynesworth money, but likely wants to be paid like Jared Allen (6 years/$73.26M). Abraham is coming off his best year (16.5 sacks, four forced fumbles), making second-team All Pro. At 31 with a $5 million '09 salary, however, Abraham doesn't have that great a case.

DAILY NFL PLAYER UPDATE #11 07/07/2009

Chargers- Shawne Merriman
Shawne Merriman says he is not upset that the Chargers have failed to extend his contract, which will expire after this season.

Merriman's bum left knee has a lot to do with it, but it sounds like the Bolts haven't even brought up an extension. "I just turned 25...I don’t care about any of that stuff." Merriman said. "I just feel like all my work will pay off...and somebody is going to realize what I bring and give me what I want."

Source: Yahoo Sports

Packers- Ryan Grant
Mike Lombardi of the National Football Post expects "the '07 (Ryan) Grant" to return this season.

Lombardi is a former high-level personnel man and still watches tape, so his opinion is worth consideration. He suspects that Grant's YPC and number of long runs dwindled in 2008 because he was more concerned with getting a new contract than working hard. Grant also fumbled more and scored less.

Source: National Football Post

Colts- Philip Wheeler
Philip Wheeler is currently the Colts' starting strong-side linebacker.

Middle man Gary Brackett and weak-side 'backer Clint Session are better IDP bets, but Wheeler has the most pass-rush ability of the three. He still won't get more than five sacks as a likely two-down player in Indy's 4-3 scheme.

Source: colts.com

Jaguars- Gerald Alexander
Newly acquired Jaguars SS Gerald Alexander is expected to compete for a starting job in training camp.

Jaguars.com points out that Jacksonville liked Alexander coming out of Boise State in 2007 and he passed his physical after a 2008 neck injury. Alexander could be a sleeper for 80-90 tackles if he beats out Sean Considine.

Source: jaguars.com

Giants- Michael Boley
NFL suspended Giants WLB Michael Boley one game for violating the league's personal conduct policy.

The Boley-Giants union is off to a rocky start. Signed to a $25 million deal that seemed like a steal in March, Boley has since torn the labrum in his hip and now won't be eligible until Week 2 at Dallas. Boley's status for the opener was already in question because he needed surgery, but discipline for his May 2008 battery charge guarantees he'll sit against the Redskins.

Giants- Bryan Kehl
Bryan Kehl and Gerris Wilkinson will likely battle in training camp to be the Giants' starting weak-side linebacker on opening day vs. Washington.

Wilkinson is more experienced, but Giants coaches seemed to prefer Kehl's aggressiveness when scrambling for weak-side help last year. Wilkinson has been an injury waiting to happen as a pro and Kehl is a better athlete.

Related: Gerris Wilkinson

Browns- Donte Stallworth
Miami police revealed that Donte' Stallworth informed them he did four shots of tequila in the hours before his crash that killed 59-year-old pedestrian Mario Reyes earlier this year.

Stallworth said he met Braylon Edwards and other friends out the night previous, and went home for a "nap" before heading for breakfast at around 7AM the following morning. Stallworth claimed he did not "feel" drunk, but his blood-alcohol level was still .126, or above the 0.08 Florida legal limit.

Source: Associated Press

Bengals- Fui Vakapuna
Bengals signed seventh-round FB Fui Vakapuna to a four-year, $1.811 million contract.

Already 25 after serving a two-year Mormon mission, Vakapuna was mostly a lead blocker at BYU. At 5'11/244, he has the build to play fullback at this level if he improves his technique, but we're guessing he won't make the club.

Source: Profootballtalk.com

Seahawks- Owen Schmitt
Seahawks FB Owen Schmitt pleaded not guilty to suspicion of DUI in a Black Diamond (WA) courtroom Tuesday.

This was only an arraignment; a pre-trial hearing is scheduled for later this month. Schmitt could be in danger of NFL discipline if he isn't acquitted.

Source: Seattle Times

Packers- T.J. Lang
Packers signed fourth-round OL T.J. Lang to a four-year contract, including a $502,500 signing bonus.

Lang was a tackle throughout his Eastern Michigan days, but the Packers list him as a "guard/tackle." He did practice at right tackle during OTAs and has the athleticism to stay there in Green Bay's hybrid zone-blocking scheme.

Source: Profootballtalk.com

Eagles- Jon Runyan
Free agent OT Jon Runyan is reportedly on track for a late-July return.

Runyan's agent claims he's been in touch with "several teams." Clubs are likely waiting for the 35-year-old to be ready to pass a physical as he recovers from microfracture surgery. One potential suitor is the Vikings, who could use Runyan as competition for second-round pick Phil Loadholt.

Source: Profootballtalk.com

Falcons- Tony Gonzalez
Coordinator Mike Mularkey indicated that Tony Gonzalez will be asked to do more blocking in the Falcons' run-first offense.

"He's a productive blocker and that's important in our offense," the OC said. "As successful as he's been as a receiver, he's a good blocker too." Gonzo was essentially a rocked-up wideout for years in K.C., but Mularkey made it clear that Atlanta's offense will continue to revolve around Michael Turner. Don't expect Gonzalez to repeat his top fantasy TE finish from 2008.

Source: atlantafalcons.com

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #10 07/06/2009

Bengals- Brian Leonard
Brian Leonard "has to be a favorite" for the Bengals' backup tailback job behind Cedric Benson, according to the team's website.

Bengals.com writer Geoff Hobson points out that Leonard is six years younger than incumbent backup Kenny Watson with a similarly versatile skill set. The Bengals will likely only keep two backs this year. Watson, rookie Bernard Scott, and oft-injured DeDe Dorsey are the favorites for the third slot.

Source: bengals.com

Colts- Clint Session
The Colts' website confirms that Clint Session will likely be the team's starting weak-side linebacker this season.

Indianapolis is moving away from the weak-side friendly Tampa 2 system, but Session is still a good bet for 100 tackles and should get more blitz opportunities. He's a solid late-round target in tackle-heavy IDP leagues.

Source: colts.com

Packers- James Jones
James Jones didn't miss a practice during minicamps or OTAs and "looked like he was back to his old self," according to the Packers' website.

Jones, who didn't need surgery for his 2008 knee troubles, declared himself 100 percent and will battle Jordy Nelson for the third receiver job in August. Nelson performed admirably in the role last year, but Jones' experience, red-zone skills, and ability to dominate in the slot may give him an edge.

Source: packers.com

Bengals- Andre Smith
A league source tells Profootballtalk.com that the Bengals will open contract talks this week with Andre Smith, the No. 6 overall pick.

Most teams will begin negotiations with their first-round picks this week. Smith is widely expected to hold out for at least part of training camp because of his draft status and the Bengals' history of holdouts. Smith's agent, Alvin Keels, will likely wait for fellow top-ten tackles Jason Smith and Eugene Monroe to sign before getting too serious about his client's contract.

Source: Profootballtalk.com

Cardinals- Edgerrin James
FOXSports' Alex Marvez writes that free agent Edgerrin James "would have to accept a backup spot" if he is to sign with the Saints.

This is likely why Edge won't go to New Orleans. The Saints would use him as a true backup for Pierre Thomas, basically replacing Reggie Bush. Bush is now a slot receiver with extra passing-down value, and essentially no longer a ball carrier. Marvez says the Saints are happy with starting Thomas, meaning they probably won't offer Edge more than the minimum.

Source: FOXSports.com

Jets- Brett Favre
Brett Favre and his wife put a $30,000 deposit on a condo in Edina, a suburb of Minneapolis.

This is clue number 7,987 that Favre will be a Viking this season. Expect the rumor to become official sometime before July 20, when the team puts its single-game tickets up for sale.

Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press

49ers- Allen Rossum
49ers beat writer Matt Maiocco thinks Allen Rossum is the favorite to return punts and kickoffs this season.

Rossum signed a one-year deal in February and is 33 years old. Other candidates to return kicks for the Niners include Delanie Walker, Michael Robinson and Micheal Spurlock - if he makes the team.

Source: Santa Rosa Press Democrat

Chiefs- Monty Beisel
The Kansas City star projects Monty Beisel to open the season as the Chiefs' starting weak outside linebacker.

This would be quite an ugly sign for Tamba Hali as he transitions from 4-3 end. Beisel is a journeyman with just five career sacks in eight pro seasons.

Source: Kansas City Star

Jets- Nevin McCaskill
Jets signed OG Nevin McCaskill, formerly of the Packers.

He'll be a camp body for Kris Jenkins and company to tee off on.

Ravens- Steve McNair
The gun found at the scene of Steve McNair and Sahel Kazemi's deaths matches the semiautomatic pistol recently bought by Kazemi, Nashville police confirmed on Monday.

Kazemi's ex-boyfriend was questioned "in detail," but is not a suspect and no other suspects are being pursued. Police are now testing if gunshot residue was present on Kazemi's hands after her body was found. It's unclear how Kazemi, 20, got the gun. Anyone under 21 is prohibited from purchasing a handgun, and Tennessee requires a person to be 21 to have carry permit. Police are clearly leaning towards labeling the deaths a murder-suicide.

Source: Nashville Tennessean

Vikings- Antoine Winfield
The agent for Vikings contract-year CB Antoine Winfield indicated Monday that his client has no plans to hold out of training camp.

"There is way too much time for me or Antoine to even think of anything like that," the agent said. "As of right now that option has not been discussed at all. Antoine is not making any demands or threats or anything like that." The Winfield camp is clearly optimistic something will happen before camp.

Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune

Lions- Caleb Campbell
Former Lions draft pick Caleb Campbell will try out for the 2010 U.S. Olympic bobsled team.

The No. 218 pick overall last year, Campbell's NFL dreams were dashed last July when the U.S. Army forced him to serve his military service time. He isn't eligible for the NFL until 2010, but we're guessing he won't pursue it. The Army does have a policy allowing soldiers to pursue Olympic training.

Source: AOL NFL Fanhouse

Cardinals- Darnell Dockett
In a Twitter post Monday evening, Cardinals DT Darnell Dockett said he would not let his contract issues distract him or his team this season.

He won't hold out. Dockett wanted to be traded or get his contract upgraded, but it was never a realistic goal. Tonight's statement is essentially is Dockett admitting he's not getting more money this season. He's under contract through 2011, and perhaps the Cardinals will talk extension next offseason, but we doubt it.

Source: ESPN.com

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #9 07/05/2009

Bears- Johnny Knox
Fifth-round rookie Johnny Knox reportedly evoked memories of Bernard Berrian during Bears OTAs.

It's hard to like the comparison, as Knox is playing in the slot and Berrian is a pure outside receiver, but Knox's 4.3 speed does give him deep threat upside. Knox is battling Juaquin Iglesias and Rashied Davis for playing time.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Ravens-
Nashville police formally classified Steve McNair's shocking death Sunday as a homicide.

The death of 20-year-old girlfriend Sahel Kazemi has not been classified, however. An autopsy revealed that McNair suffered four gunshot wounds; two to his head and two to his chest. Kazemi's only wound was to her head. A semiautomatic pistol was recovered under her body, and Kazemi's condo showed no signs of forced entry. Police believe the two died early Saturday, well before the bodies were found. Authorities are still not looking for suspects. McNair is survived by his wife of 12 years and four sons.

Chiefs- Bernard Pollard
According to the K.C. Star, SS Bernard Pollard is at more risk of losing his starting job to newly acquired Mike Brown than is FS Jarrad Page.

The club would be better off if its young safeties kept their jobs, but Brown can play both safety spots and Pollard's tackling has been inconsistent over the last two years. Of course, you wouldn't know it by checking the box score.

Source: Kansas City Star

Ravens- Marshal Yanda
Ravens G/T Marshal Yanda (ACL, MCL, PCL surgeries) will begin training camp on the active/PUP list.

Yanda, who sat out all of OTA season, will be a candidate for regular season PUP as well. The Ravens may only be hoping for Yanda to fill a reserve role by midyear as he recovers from multiple extensive knee surgeries.

Source: Baltimore Sun

Colts- Pierre Garcon
The National Football Post's Mike Lombardi predicts that Pierre Garcon will "be the new Marvin Harrison in Indy."

We suspect Lombardi is projecting Garcon to fill Marvin's production void from last year (60/636/5), not emerge as a future Hall of Famer. Still, it's more evidence that Garcon has a handle on Indianapolis' third receiver job.

Source: National Football Post

Browns- Braylon Edwards
The Browns reportedly plan to use Braylon Edwards on more slant routes and quick throws to get him the ball more frequently.

Edwards' drop-filled 2008 can be partially blamed on never finding a rhythm because his weekly catch totals were so inconsistent. He caught four balls or more in back-to-back games three times all year. Edwards' strength is still as a deep threat, but he should dominate targets in Cleveland's new offense.

Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer

Daily Player Update #9 07/03/09

Redskins- Colt Brennan
Backup Redskins QB Colt Brennan said that he's "going to play a ton" in the preseason as he battles with Todd Collins for the No. 2 job.
That may mean that the Redskins are trying to see if he can step on the field in 2009. After trying to acquire Jay Cutler and Mark Sanchez in the offseason, it's clear starter Jason Campbell is on a short leash. Brennan put up huge numbers at Hawaii but has yet to take an NFL snap.
Source: The Monty Show on Sporting News Radio

Bears- Earl Bennett
According to Bears beat writer Brad Biggs, WR Earl Bennett is "being counted on for major production."
At this point the Bears seem comfortable going into the season with Bennett and Devin Hester as their top wideouts. Bennett played with Jay Cutler at Vanderbilt and performed well at spring workouts. Even though Bennett caught zero passes in his rookie season, he's going to have a chance to make a name for himself now.
Source: Chicago Sun Times

Bears- Zackary Bowman
Thanks in part to his 12 interceptions during OTAs, Bears CB Zackary Bowman has shot up the depth chart.
Bowman seems likely to make the team and will provide depth in case Charles Tillman or Nathan Vasher go down.
Source: Chicago Tribune

Bills- Eric Wood
Rookies Eric Wood and Andy Levitre are projected to be the Bills' starting guards this season.
The Bills offensive line is a mess as they won't have anyone playing the same position they played last year. Langston Walker is moving from right tackle to left tackle, replacing Jason Peters. Wood and Levitre rarely played guard in college. Take this for what it's worth when drafting Buffalo's skill players.
Source: espn.com

Patriots- Leigh Bodden
Chris Gasper of the Boston Globe thinks that Patriots CB Leigh Bodden "could have a Pro Bowl year."
Gasper says Bodden is the team's No. 1 corner and will start opposite Shawn Springs. Don't sleep on Bodden as an IDP candidate.
Source: Boston Globe

Packers- Nick Barnett
Packers LB Nick Barnett (ACL surgery) says he is 90 percent and expects to be limited at the start of training camp.
Barnett is making a quick recovery from the surgery and seems like he'll be ready for Week 1. Barnett also said that Brett Favre was a "huge distraction" last year and the situation hurt the team.
Source: Ross Tucker on Twitter

49ers- Shaun Hill
Beat writer Matt Maiocco doesn't expect the 49ers offense to have any serious issues with the transition from Mike Martz's system to Jimmy Raye's.
Raye, whose "meat and potatoes" system uses digit terminology similar to Martz's complex scheme, has already successfully installed his new offense. Maiocco notes that Shaun Hill and Alex Smith both looked better than he's ever seen them on the practice field.
Source: Santa Rosa Press Democrat

Raiders- Louis Murphy
Coach Tom Cable singled out fourth-round WR Louis Murphy as the surprise of the Raiders rookie class.
"He has all the makings to be a very special football player at this level," said Cable. "We really think we found one." Don't expect much out of Murphy as a rookie, but the burner has a chance to climb a flimsy Raiders depth chart in the future.
Source: NFL.com

Falcons- Michael Vick
Commissioner Michael Huyghue says the UFL will give Michael Vick a chance to play as long as his legal issues are behind him.
Vick's rights belong to the Orlando franchise. If NFL Commissioner Goodell upholds his indefinite suspension for another year, Vick could opt to play his way into football shape in the new league.
Source: Associated Press

Patriots- Patrick Chung "Pat Chung"
Patriots second-round S Patrick Chung recently announced that he prefers to go by "Pat Chung."
Pat is the son of 1980s reggae singer Sophia George-Chung and half-Jamaican, half-Chinese record producer Ronald Chung. The former Oregon star is expected to be the Patriots' third safety this season.
Source: ESPN.com

Jets- Brett Favre
Brett Favre is reportedly close to purchasing a condominium in the Minneapolis area.
It's not a done deal, but Favre is believed to be "settling" on the condo in Edina. Profootballtalk's latest educated guess has the Favre signing being announced during the week of July 13-17, after the wedding of Brad Childress' daughter and before single-game tickets go on sale July 20.
Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune

DAILY PLAYER UPDATE #7 07/01/2009

Jets- Mike Fladell
Jets waived/failed physical OT Mike Fladell.

As the transaction suggests, Fladell didn't pass his physical.

Source: Newark Star-Ledger

Cardinals- Edgerrin James
Agent Drew Rosenhaus writes on his Twitter page that free agent Edgerrin James is "in great playing shape" and "excited about this season."

As NFL news slows to a halt, we always have Rosenhaus to count on for updates. James, who turns 31 in August, is reportedly down to 216 pounds. He's listed at 220. Edge may still have to wait for injuries to strike before finding a team, though with Brian Westbrook ailing Philly wouldn't be a bad fit.

Source: Drew Rosenhaus on Twitter

Vikings- Percy Harvin
Former Vikings receiver Cris Carter reportedly unleashed on a player he caught dozing off during Carter's speech at the Rookie Symposium.

Well, we know it wasn't Percy Harvin. Carter, the symposium's final speaker, reportedly told the rookie that, "if you don’t want to listen to people who know more than you and who can help you navigate through what lies ahead, odds are you won’t be in the league for long." It'll be interesting to see if the player is exposed later on. We're betting he will be.

Source: NFL.com

Redskins- Chad Rinehart
Redskins offensive line coach Joe Bugel has noticed a "night and day" change in 2008 third-round pick Chad Rinehart.

Rinehart gave Washington nothing as a rookie, but the team hopes he'll provide depth at guard. The Skins have done poorly developing their offensive line draft picks of late. There was concern last year that Rinehart would bust, but Bugel now says "he's going to be a real good football player for us."

Source: Washington Post

Rams-Alex Barron
Beat writer Bill Coats expects Alex Barron to remain the Rams' starting left tackle when the season opens.

Barron, 27, is in a contract year and could significantly increase his 2010 market value if he performs well on Marc Bulger's blind side. Rookie Jason Smith's superior strength will come in handy at right tackle, although he'll likely move to the left side eventually. It just may not happen this season.

Source: St Louis Post-Dispatch

Rams- Adam Carriker
Rams DT Adam Carriker is reportedly fully healthy for the first time since suffering a torn labrum in December of 2007.

Carriker, who showed off his strength and quickness in OTAs, will key Steve Spagnuolo's defensive line along with last year's first-rounder Chris Long. He also has the luxury of sticking to one position this season -- left defensive tackle.

Source: St Louis Post-Dispatch

Titans- Jared Cook
Beat writer Jim Wyatt calls Jared Cook the most impressive Titans rookie thus far.

First-rounder Kenny Britt has been slowed by a hamstring injury, so it shouldn't come as any surprise that the third-rounder has stood out the most. A freakish athlete, Cook has combined unique playmaking ability with bad drops this offseason.

Source: Nashville Tennessean

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

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