Top 10 QB
1) Peyton Manning -117.54
2) Aaron Rodgers -107.72
3) Joe Flacco -104.92
4) Drew Brees -104.84
5) Ben Roethlisberger - 100.02
6) Matt Schaub - 98.28
7) Philip Rivers - 95.90
8) Brett Favre - 95.38
9) Eli Manning - 94.16
10) Jay Cutler - 92.84
Top 10 RB
1) Chris Johnson - 74.90
2) MJD - 72.50
3) Adrian Peterson - 72.40
4) Ronnie Brown - 67.10
5) Willis McGahee - 65.90
6) Fred Jackson - 55.90
7) Frank Gore - 55.40
8) Cedric Benson - 54.80
9) Ray Rice - 52.10
10) Julius Jones - 51.80
Top 10 WR
1) Steve Smith NYG - 71.90
2) Reggie Wayne - 63.10
3) Dallas Clark - 54.30
4) Vincent Jackson - 53.30
5) Antonio Gates - 51.70
6) DeSean Jackson - 51.10
7) Andre Johnson - 49.60
8) Chad Ochocinco - 48.00
9) Mike Sims-Walker - 46.60
10)Calvin Johnson - 46.20
Top 10 DEF
1) Denver - 107.00
2) New Orleans - 98.00
3) San Fransisco - 96.00
4) NY Jets - 77.00
5) Minnesota - 76.00
6) NY Giants - 73.00
7) Cincinnati - 64.00
8) Philadelphia - 62.00
9) Indianapolis - 61.00
10) Green Bay - 59.00
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Brandon Marshall to the Jets?
The Denver Broncos would want New York Jets linebacker David Harris in any trade scenario for wide receiver Brandon Marshall, two NFL sources told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter on Wednesday.
There is no indication that the Jets would surrender Harris, who was fifth on the team in tackles last season despite playing only 11 games due to groin surgery. He led the Jets in tackles the previous season.
Marshall has requested a trade from the Broncos, and new coach Josh McDaniels finally suspended him this week for conduct detrimental to the team.
In any trade for Marshall, Denver would reportedly like a player who could contribute to its team this season and a draft pick that would help later on. But the Broncos aren't making any deal if they don't think it improves them now. That has left them without a viable deal. McDaniels went so far as to say that the Broncos aren't shopping their disgruntled receiver.
"There are no discussions whatsoever taking place between the Denver Broncos and any team in the National Football League regarding Brandon Marshall," McDaniels said Wednesday. "We are looking forward to having Brandon back on the sixth of September and starting our preparation for Cincinnati with him."
There is no indication that the Jets would surrender Harris, who was fifth on the team in tackles last season despite playing only 11 games due to groin surgery. He led the Jets in tackles the previous season.
Marshall has requested a trade from the Broncos, and new coach Josh McDaniels finally suspended him this week for conduct detrimental to the team.
In any trade for Marshall, Denver would reportedly like a player who could contribute to its team this season and a draft pick that would help later on. But the Broncos aren't making any deal if they don't think it improves them now. That has left them without a viable deal. McDaniels went so far as to say that the Broncos aren't shopping their disgruntled receiver.
"There are no discussions whatsoever taking place between the Denver Broncos and any team in the National Football League regarding Brandon Marshall," McDaniels said Wednesday. "We are looking forward to having Brandon back on the sixth of September and starting our preparation for Cincinnati with him."
Monday, August 31, 2009
Matt Cassel out 3-4 Weeks!!!
Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel has a strained medial collateral ligament in his left knee and could miss the Chiefs' season opener and beyond, Yahoo Sports! reported on Monday.
Cassel
Citing a source within the organization, Yahoo Sports! reported Cassel could miss two to four weeks. He was hurt Saturday night when sacked on the third play of a 14-10 preseason loss to Seattle.
The Chiefs open the regular season Sept. 13 at Baltimore. They return to practice Monday and are expected to have injury updates on Cassel and others, including wide receiver Devard Darling (leg).
Tyler Thigpen is Cassel's primary backup.
Cassel was acquired by Kansas City in an offseason trade with New England and signed a $63 million, six-year contract with the Chiefs. The contract contains $28 million in guaranteed money.
Cassel replaced injured Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the first week of the 2008 season and threw for 3,693 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Cassel
Citing a source within the organization, Yahoo Sports! reported Cassel could miss two to four weeks. He was hurt Saturday night when sacked on the third play of a 14-10 preseason loss to Seattle.
The Chiefs open the regular season Sept. 13 at Baltimore. They return to practice Monday and are expected to have injury updates on Cassel and others, including wide receiver Devard Darling (leg).
Tyler Thigpen is Cassel's primary backup.
Cassel was acquired by Kansas City in an offseason trade with New England and signed a $63 million, six-year contract with the Chiefs. The contract contains $28 million in guaranteed money.
Cassel replaced injured Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the first week of the 2008 season and threw for 3,693 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Brady Quinn looking good for the Browns!
One Cleveland Browns quarterback threw a touchdown pass. The other did not.
And for Brady Quinn, that perfect pass may have pushed him over the top.
Quinn threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Braylon Edwards and outplayed Derek Anderson in perhaps their final auditions for coach Eric Mangini to be Cleveland's starting quarterback, and the Browns beat the Tennessee Titans 23-17 in an exhibition game Saturday night.
Quinn and Anderson entered the third preseason game in a virtual dead heat. Earlier this week, Mangini described their summer-long competition as "very close" and it remains that way. They've posted similar stats with Quinn's TD pass -- the only one by a Cleveland QB in the preseason -- as the only thing separating the pair.
Mangini said he is no nearer to naming his starter for the Sept. 13 opener against Minnesota.
"I'll look at the tape tomorrow, talk to the coaches and continue to evaluate it," Mangini said. "When the decision is made, I'll let everyone know."
After coming off the bench last week, Quinn got the start and finished 11-of-15 for 128 yards. He led the Browns to one TD and two field goals in his four series.
Anderson went 7-of-11 for 77 yards and led the Browns to one field goal on two possessions. He didn't have an interception, but one poorly thrown ball was dropped by Tennessee cornerback Tenard Davis.
Both QBs were happy with their performances and both did their best to sidestep questions about who they think will win their race.
"It's out of my hands," Anderson said. "Let the chips fall."
Quinn was asked if he expected a decision to come this week.
"I expect to practice on Monday," he said. "Derek and I are mentally tough guys. If our coach wants us to go forever, I'm sure we can go forever."
Quinn was given a short field to work with in the third quarter when the Browns recovered a Tennessee fumble on a kickoff at the Titans' 34. On first down, Quinn threw underneath to Jamal Lewis who weaved 14 yards on a screen.
Quinn then fired his TD pass on an inside slant to Edwards, who moments earlier made a sensational one-handed catch in the end zone on a pass from Anderson but could only get one foot down.
Edwards refused to handicap the Browns' quarterback derby.
"That's up to coach," he said. "Whatever decision he makes we'll support. Right now, they both look good."
While Cleveland's quarterbacks were under the microscope, Tennessee's Kerry Collins looked best.
Collins went 11-of-14 for 102 yards and threw a 6-yard TD pass to Justin Gage in the first quarter. The 36-year-old Collins can still throw it as hard and far as always and he showed soft touch on several balls.
"Kerry spread the ball around quite a bit," Titans coach Jeff Fisher said. "We got some things accomplished that we didn't see last week. I was pleased with the drives. We gave up a couple of plays, but I thought we handled the run with the starters"
With Patrick Ramsey nursing sore ribs, Vince Young played three quarters and went 17-of-24 for 174 yards. He threw a 15-yard TD pass to tight end Matthew Mulligan but also threw an interception that was returned 11 yards for a TD by Browns linebacker Alex Hall.
Young accepted blame for the pick.
"It was my fault," he said. "[Hall] made a great play. I threw a ball behind him [Mulligan]. I should have thrown it into the ground."
Collins threw a touchdown pass and played the whole first half last week in a loss at Dallas. But Tennessee's first-team offense managed just 78 yards. The Titans nearly equaled that the second time they had the ball as Collins capped a 75-yard drive with his TD pass to Gage.
Quinn displayed nice arm strength on an 18-yard pass to Mike Furrey and later stepped up and drilled a pass to Joshua Cribbs on third down for another 18 as Cleveland moved to the Titans' 10. But the Browns had to settle for Phil Dawson's 21-yard field goal to pull within 7-3.
Anderson impacted the game in a strange way before it was his turn to play.
On Tennessee's first play after Dawson's kick, Collins threw a deep pass down the right side that fell incomplete. However, field judge Terry Brown called a 15-yard penalty on Anderson, who was standing on the Browns sideline, for being outside the restricted bench area.
Brown tripped and fell over Anderson, who appeared to be trying to get out of the official's way.
Anderson admitted he was watching the play on the scoreboard and the next thing he knew the play was on top of him.
And for Brady Quinn, that perfect pass may have pushed him over the top.
Quinn threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Braylon Edwards and outplayed Derek Anderson in perhaps their final auditions for coach Eric Mangini to be Cleveland's starting quarterback, and the Browns beat the Tennessee Titans 23-17 in an exhibition game Saturday night.
Quinn and Anderson entered the third preseason game in a virtual dead heat. Earlier this week, Mangini described their summer-long competition as "very close" and it remains that way. They've posted similar stats with Quinn's TD pass -- the only one by a Cleveland QB in the preseason -- as the only thing separating the pair.
Mangini said he is no nearer to naming his starter for the Sept. 13 opener against Minnesota.
"I'll look at the tape tomorrow, talk to the coaches and continue to evaluate it," Mangini said. "When the decision is made, I'll let everyone know."
After coming off the bench last week, Quinn got the start and finished 11-of-15 for 128 yards. He led the Browns to one TD and two field goals in his four series.
Anderson went 7-of-11 for 77 yards and led the Browns to one field goal on two possessions. He didn't have an interception, but one poorly thrown ball was dropped by Tennessee cornerback Tenard Davis.
Both QBs were happy with their performances and both did their best to sidestep questions about who they think will win their race.
"It's out of my hands," Anderson said. "Let the chips fall."
Quinn was asked if he expected a decision to come this week.
"I expect to practice on Monday," he said. "Derek and I are mentally tough guys. If our coach wants us to go forever, I'm sure we can go forever."
Quinn was given a short field to work with in the third quarter when the Browns recovered a Tennessee fumble on a kickoff at the Titans' 34. On first down, Quinn threw underneath to Jamal Lewis who weaved 14 yards on a screen.
Quinn then fired his TD pass on an inside slant to Edwards, who moments earlier made a sensational one-handed catch in the end zone on a pass from Anderson but could only get one foot down.
Edwards refused to handicap the Browns' quarterback derby.
"That's up to coach," he said. "Whatever decision he makes we'll support. Right now, they both look good."
While Cleveland's quarterbacks were under the microscope, Tennessee's Kerry Collins looked best.
Collins went 11-of-14 for 102 yards and threw a 6-yard TD pass to Justin Gage in the first quarter. The 36-year-old Collins can still throw it as hard and far as always and he showed soft touch on several balls.
"Kerry spread the ball around quite a bit," Titans coach Jeff Fisher said. "We got some things accomplished that we didn't see last week. I was pleased with the drives. We gave up a couple of plays, but I thought we handled the run with the starters"
With Patrick Ramsey nursing sore ribs, Vince Young played three quarters and went 17-of-24 for 174 yards. He threw a 15-yard TD pass to tight end Matthew Mulligan but also threw an interception that was returned 11 yards for a TD by Browns linebacker Alex Hall.
Young accepted blame for the pick.
"It was my fault," he said. "[Hall] made a great play. I threw a ball behind him [Mulligan]. I should have thrown it into the ground."
Collins threw a touchdown pass and played the whole first half last week in a loss at Dallas. But Tennessee's first-team offense managed just 78 yards. The Titans nearly equaled that the second time they had the ball as Collins capped a 75-yard drive with his TD pass to Gage.
Quinn displayed nice arm strength on an 18-yard pass to Mike Furrey and later stepped up and drilled a pass to Joshua Cribbs on third down for another 18 as Cleveland moved to the Titans' 10. But the Browns had to settle for Phil Dawson's 21-yard field goal to pull within 7-3.
Anderson impacted the game in a strange way before it was his turn to play.
On Tennessee's first play after Dawson's kick, Collins threw a deep pass down the right side that fell incomplete. However, field judge Terry Brown called a 15-yard penalty on Anderson, who was standing on the Browns sideline, for being outside the restricted bench area.
Brown tripped and fell over Anderson, who appeared to be trying to get out of the official's way.
Anderson admitted he was watching the play on the scoreboard and the next thing he knew the play was on top of him.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Donald Brown to gain bigger role in offense!
Under the Tony Dungy regime, censorship reigned supreme. Emulating Bill Beezlechick, the soft spoken coach exhibited guardedness whenever pressed about player roles or injuries. The often limited information presented drove many fantasy freaks to seek consultation from a certain spiced Captain.
Unsurprisingly, Jim Caldwell has adopted the old coach's prudent diplomacy.
This year, owners who invest in the Indy backfield better have a straight-jacket within arm's reach. It's sure to be infuriating. Incumbent Joseph Addai(notes), who was wildly inconsistent last season running behind a disheveled offensive line while battling through constant nicks and scrapes, and flashy newcomer Donald Brown(notes) are expected to be involved in an unspecified platoon, a situation Caldwell appropriately danced around earlier this month:
"Looking back at our history, it has always been a part of what we've done," Caldwell said of using two running backs. "The years when we've been really effective, we've had someone who could take a little load off of the guy who was carrying it a majority of the time. It depends on who you face and the type of defensive structure that you have to deal with. But one thing we know for sure is there will be some type of rotation."
How exactly the carries will be divided is anyone's guess. If Addai's balky knee doesn't flare up, he will begin the season as the starter. But make no mistake, it's a loose designation.
A season ago the fantasy heartbreaker followed a banner 1,436-total yard, 15-TD campaign with a Benson-esque effort. Over 12 games he averaged a mere 3.5 yards per carry, 62.5 total yards and 9.8 points per game, a mark which ranked one spot behind Earnest Graham(notes) or 28th overall at his position. With Brown breathing down his neck, it's safe to assume the pressure on the veteran to perform is massive. Even though his mid-40s ADP is sizably discounted, employing the Indy rusher as an RB2 is an enhanced risk.
Drawing rave reviews from Caldwell for his studious preparation, maturity and skill set, Brown will likely be the more valuable of the two by midseason. The Colts selected the Connecticut product in Round 1 for a reason.
Equipped with dodgy elusiveness, hole-penetrating explosiveness and terrific vision, the shifty rookie's tools blend perfectly with Tom Moore's spread scheme. However, caught from behind by Minnesota defensive end Jayme Mitchell(notes) last week (See the scamper here), he doesn't possess a second gear to outrun defenders. But his balance across-the-board will prove effective, especially with Peyton Manning(notes) stretching out defenses. After rushing impressively for 58 yards on five carries against the Vikings in his preseason debut, Brown has already gained the admiration of his teammates, especially center Jeff Saturday(notes):
"I thought he did a great job. Got through the hole, was shifty, made big runs, got outside, showed his speed. You've got to be impressed with the way he ran the ball. He did a good job when he ran the ball. He did a good job when he got the opportunity to make a big play."
Because Addai is composed of 45 percent papier-mâche, 55 percent wuss, Brown is a tremendous value selection in the middle rounds. His odds of developing into a viable deep-league RB2 are strong. For the thrifty-minded, his 85.21 ADP (RB34) is certainly attractive. But if he shines against a stingy Eagles defense tonight on national TV, it's a foregone conclusion his stock will march north.
Unsurprisingly, Jim Caldwell has adopted the old coach's prudent diplomacy.
This year, owners who invest in the Indy backfield better have a straight-jacket within arm's reach. It's sure to be infuriating. Incumbent Joseph Addai(notes), who was wildly inconsistent last season running behind a disheveled offensive line while battling through constant nicks and scrapes, and flashy newcomer Donald Brown(notes) are expected to be involved in an unspecified platoon, a situation Caldwell appropriately danced around earlier this month:
"Looking back at our history, it has always been a part of what we've done," Caldwell said of using two running backs. "The years when we've been really effective, we've had someone who could take a little load off of the guy who was carrying it a majority of the time. It depends on who you face and the type of defensive structure that you have to deal with. But one thing we know for sure is there will be some type of rotation."
How exactly the carries will be divided is anyone's guess. If Addai's balky knee doesn't flare up, he will begin the season as the starter. But make no mistake, it's a loose designation.
A season ago the fantasy heartbreaker followed a banner 1,436-total yard, 15-TD campaign with a Benson-esque effort. Over 12 games he averaged a mere 3.5 yards per carry, 62.5 total yards and 9.8 points per game, a mark which ranked one spot behind Earnest Graham(notes) or 28th overall at his position. With Brown breathing down his neck, it's safe to assume the pressure on the veteran to perform is massive. Even though his mid-40s ADP is sizably discounted, employing the Indy rusher as an RB2 is an enhanced risk.
Drawing rave reviews from Caldwell for his studious preparation, maturity and skill set, Brown will likely be the more valuable of the two by midseason. The Colts selected the Connecticut product in Round 1 for a reason.
Equipped with dodgy elusiveness, hole-penetrating explosiveness and terrific vision, the shifty rookie's tools blend perfectly with Tom Moore's spread scheme. However, caught from behind by Minnesota defensive end Jayme Mitchell(notes) last week (See the scamper here), he doesn't possess a second gear to outrun defenders. But his balance across-the-board will prove effective, especially with Peyton Manning(notes) stretching out defenses. After rushing impressively for 58 yards on five carries against the Vikings in his preseason debut, Brown has already gained the admiration of his teammates, especially center Jeff Saturday(notes):
"I thought he did a great job. Got through the hole, was shifty, made big runs, got outside, showed his speed. You've got to be impressed with the way he ran the ball. He did a good job when he ran the ball. He did a good job when he got the opportunity to make a big play."
Because Addai is composed of 45 percent papier-mâche, 55 percent wuss, Brown is a tremendous value selection in the middle rounds. His odds of developing into a viable deep-league RB2 are strong. For the thrifty-minded, his 85.21 ADP (RB34) is certainly attractive. But if he shines against a stingy Eagles defense tonight on national TV, it's a foregone conclusion his stock will march north.
Preseason updates
Carolina's Jonathan Stewart(notes) has been sidelined for most of camp by Achilles soreness, and it's allowed rookie fourth-rounder Mike Goodson(notes) a bit more visibility. That dude is dangerous. In the Panthers' preseason opener versus the Giants, Goodson had eight touches for 59 total yards and a TD. If Stewart's issues persist, remember Goodson's name. Here's a key quote from a local source: "This rookie is a big-play guy who will shake up Carolina's offense." [Charlotte Observer]
Chris Wells(notes) (ankle) is back at practice. Sort of. He's going through individual drills, then watching when the grown-ups take the field. "[Ken] Whisenhunt said Wells looked good. Wells' play will be progressed as the week goes, Whisenhunt said, as long as his ankle responds well daily." And of course there's no reason to doubt that Wells' ankle will respond superbly, right? [AZCardinals.com]
This is bad news for all Seahawks, past and present: Seattle LT Walter Jones(notes) needs another knee procedure. Ignore offensive lines at your own peril, fantasy owner. This is bad for Matt Hasselbeck(notes), bad for the ground game, bad for Funston … just bad, period. When asked about the amount of time Jones is expected to miss, coach Jim Mora had this to say: "I don't know. We'll have more information in the morning. We don't think that it's anything mind-blowing serious, but we want to be sure." [Seattle Times]
John Hansen delivered a collection of notes from the opening preseason games, and it's definitely worth a review. (Please note that it's pre-Favre). Here's a quick blurb on America's favorite Bengal: "I thought Cedric Benson(notes) ran hard, which is good. But I was really impressed with Bernard Scott(notes). He came in off the bench second, and I think if he continues to do well Scott will be the backup. If Benson goes down, Scott’s a major, major sleeper. He’s very talented and has a lot to offer. [Fantasy Guru]
Chris Wells(notes) (ankle) is back at practice. Sort of. He's going through individual drills, then watching when the grown-ups take the field. "[Ken] Whisenhunt said Wells looked good. Wells' play will be progressed as the week goes, Whisenhunt said, as long as his ankle responds well daily." And of course there's no reason to doubt that Wells' ankle will respond superbly, right? [AZCardinals.com]
This is bad news for all Seahawks, past and present: Seattle LT Walter Jones(notes) needs another knee procedure. Ignore offensive lines at your own peril, fantasy owner. This is bad for Matt Hasselbeck(notes), bad for the ground game, bad for Funston … just bad, period. When asked about the amount of time Jones is expected to miss, coach Jim Mora had this to say: "I don't know. We'll have more information in the morning. We don't think that it's anything mind-blowing serious, but we want to be sure." [Seattle Times]
John Hansen delivered a collection of notes from the opening preseason games, and it's definitely worth a review. (Please note that it's pre-Favre). Here's a quick blurb on America's favorite Bengal: "I thought Cedric Benson(notes) ran hard, which is good. But I was really impressed with Bernard Scott(notes). He came in off the bench second, and I think if he continues to do well Scott will be the backup. If Benson goes down, Scott’s a major, major sleeper. He’s very talented and has a lot to offer. [Fantasy Guru]
Monday, August 17, 2009
Lions already winning! :)
Matthew Stafford took his first snap as a pro and perfectly executed a play-action pass.
The problem: Keary Colbert dropped the ball.
Welcome to the Detroit Lions, kid.
Stafford threw a touchdown, an interception and had some passes dropped in his pro debut that Detroit rallied to win 27-26 over the Atlanta Falcons on Jason Hanson's 47-yard field goal as time expired.
"They're going to drop some balls just like I'm going to miss some," he said. "I was excited. I felt like I had a good day."
Stafford, the No. 1 pick of the NFL's first 0-16 team, completed half of his 14 passes for 114 yards.
He was pressured into making a poor pass, which was intercepted and returned by Tony Gilbert for a score. He responded by leading an 80-yard drive that ended with him looking left, throwing right and taking a hit on a 25-yard TD pass to fellow rookie Derrick Williams.
Detroit coach Jim Schwartz was impressed with how Stafford bounced back quickly after making a mistake.
Schwartz plans to start Stafford in the second exhibition game, but told reporters not to read into anything regarding the QB competition.
"They don't put preseason games on your tombstone or your resume," Schwartz said.
Detroit's Daunte Culpepper was 5-of-6 for 41 yards and moved around enough to show he's healthy after a knee injury stunted his career.
"I feel like I've finally gotten back to the player I want to be," he said.
The Falcons, meanwhile, just hope Matt Ryan and Michael Turner perform as they did last year for them and 10-time Pro Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez and veteran linebacker Mike Peterson prove to be valuable additions.
In limited chances, each looked good.
Ryan was 5-of-7 for 33 yards. Turner ran for a 40-yard TD. Gonzalez caught a pass to convert a third down on the opening drive. Peterson had a team-high three tackles in the first quarter.
"We just didn't get the outcome that we wanted," coach Mike Smith said. "But I think there were some good things, some bad things and some ugly things."
The Lions scratched 16 players, including six projected starters and two of the team's top three picks, from the lineup with injuries. Schwartz said about half of those players would've played if it was the regular season.
Culpepper and Stafford didn't have any of their top three receivers, including Calvin Johnson, and were without first-round tight end Brandon Pettigrew.
That created opportunities and Colbert failed to take advantage, dropping three of Stafford's passes.
"I feel like I could have made every one of those plays," Colbert said. "That would have made his day look better from the outside, but he had a good day anyway."
Ryan is clearly the man under center for Atlanta after being drafted No. 3 overall, starting every game last season, becoming Offensive Rookie of the Year and leading the team to the playoffs.
"We were a little bit rusty," he said. "But that's what the preseason is for."
Turner, who also had a lot to do with Atlanta's surprising season, had 63 yards rushing on six carries and ran into a hole and through a couple defenders on a long TD that put Atlanta ahead 7-3.
"It always feels good to get back into the groove of things," he said.
Detroit took an early lead on Hanson's field goal. Sixth-round pick Aaron Brown gave the Lions a chance to go ahead again with a 32-yard run for a score in the third period and a 45-yard TD reception with 2:05 left, when he was flagged for celebrating with a flip.
"I don't have the size," the 6-foot-1, 205-pound Brown said. "But I make up for it with speed."
The Lions got the ball back with no timeouts at their 27 with 1:36 remainder and third-string quarterback Drew Stanton ran for 18 yards to set up Hanson's winning kick.
"I got goosebumps when Jason hit that," Schwartz said after his first game as a head coach at any level.
The problem: Keary Colbert dropped the ball.
Welcome to the Detroit Lions, kid.
Stafford threw a touchdown, an interception and had some passes dropped in his pro debut that Detroit rallied to win 27-26 over the Atlanta Falcons on Jason Hanson's 47-yard field goal as time expired.
"They're going to drop some balls just like I'm going to miss some," he said. "I was excited. I felt like I had a good day."
Stafford, the No. 1 pick of the NFL's first 0-16 team, completed half of his 14 passes for 114 yards.
He was pressured into making a poor pass, which was intercepted and returned by Tony Gilbert for a score. He responded by leading an 80-yard drive that ended with him looking left, throwing right and taking a hit on a 25-yard TD pass to fellow rookie Derrick Williams.
Detroit coach Jim Schwartz was impressed with how Stafford bounced back quickly after making a mistake.
Schwartz plans to start Stafford in the second exhibition game, but told reporters not to read into anything regarding the QB competition.
"They don't put preseason games on your tombstone or your resume," Schwartz said.
Detroit's Daunte Culpepper was 5-of-6 for 41 yards and moved around enough to show he's healthy after a knee injury stunted his career.
"I feel like I've finally gotten back to the player I want to be," he said.
The Falcons, meanwhile, just hope Matt Ryan and Michael Turner perform as they did last year for them and 10-time Pro Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez and veteran linebacker Mike Peterson prove to be valuable additions.
In limited chances, each looked good.
Ryan was 5-of-7 for 33 yards. Turner ran for a 40-yard TD. Gonzalez caught a pass to convert a third down on the opening drive. Peterson had a team-high three tackles in the first quarter.
"We just didn't get the outcome that we wanted," coach Mike Smith said. "But I think there were some good things, some bad things and some ugly things."
The Lions scratched 16 players, including six projected starters and two of the team's top three picks, from the lineup with injuries. Schwartz said about half of those players would've played if it was the regular season.
Culpepper and Stafford didn't have any of their top three receivers, including Calvin Johnson, and were without first-round tight end Brandon Pettigrew.
That created opportunities and Colbert failed to take advantage, dropping three of Stafford's passes.
"I feel like I could have made every one of those plays," Colbert said. "That would have made his day look better from the outside, but he had a good day anyway."
Ryan is clearly the man under center for Atlanta after being drafted No. 3 overall, starting every game last season, becoming Offensive Rookie of the Year and leading the team to the playoffs.
"We were a little bit rusty," he said. "But that's what the preseason is for."
Turner, who also had a lot to do with Atlanta's surprising season, had 63 yards rushing on six carries and ran into a hole and through a couple defenders on a long TD that put Atlanta ahead 7-3.
"It always feels good to get back into the groove of things," he said.
Detroit took an early lead on Hanson's field goal. Sixth-round pick Aaron Brown gave the Lions a chance to go ahead again with a 32-yard run for a score in the third period and a 45-yard TD reception with 2:05 left, when he was flagged for celebrating with a flip.
"I don't have the size," the 6-foot-1, 205-pound Brown said. "But I make up for it with speed."
The Lions got the ball back with no timeouts at their 27 with 1:36 remainder and third-string quarterback Drew Stanton ran for 18 yards to set up Hanson's winning kick.
"I got goosebumps when Jason hit that," Schwartz said after his first game as a head coach at any level.
Edwards shines and Cutler looks terrible in debut!
Trent Edwards has plenty to be happy about with the new-look, no-huddle offense that's working to near perfection for Buffalo.
It's a much different story for Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears.
Those expecting Cutler to immediately transform the Bears into anything resembling a pass-happy offense had better be patient. As Cutler was inconsistent in his Bears preseason debut, the Bills' passing game was nearly unstoppable and got plenty of help from an opportunistic defense in a 27-20 victory Saturday night.
"I'm extremely encouraged because it's pressing the defense," Edwards said of the no-huddle attack the Bills have used exclusively since opening the preseason with a 21-18 loss to Tennessee in the Hall of Fame game last weekend. "We improved from last week's game. And now we have to take another step next week."
Except for settling for field goals in the first half, the Bills offense can't get much more efficient, even without Terrell Owens, who's nursing a sprained toe.
Edwards went 10 of 10 for 79 yards to key an efficient outing for the entire Bills quarterback corps, which went a combined 29 of 34 for 265 yards and a touchdown. Third-stringer Gibran Hamdan's 3-yard pass to Shawn Nelson put the Bills up for good 20-13 a minute into the third quarter.
"Efficiency is certainly a good word to describe it," right tackle Brad Butler said. "I would certainly say we're cautiously optimistic."
The defense did its part, too. Aside from limiting Cutler to 3 points and two first downs in four series, Buffalo (1-1) forced five turnovers, including two interceptions by rookie Ellis Lankster on consecutive drives. Both interceptions were thrown by third-stringer Brett Basanez, and led to Buffalo scoring twice in 34-second span.
Many eyes, though, were on Cutler, who failed to meet the much-anticipated offseason buzz he's generated since Chicago acquired him in a blockbuster offseason trade with Denver.
He went 5 of 10 for 64 yards and an interception on a poorly underthrown pass up the left sideline that was picked off by Leodis McKelvin. Cutler nearly threw another interception, but cornerback Reggie Corner dropped the ball that hit him squarely in the chest.
"It's too early to start to panic. It's preseason," Cutler said. "I feel fine about it."
Cutler also noted that the Bears rested starting running back Matt Forte and starting tight end Greg Olsen.
"We're just calling base stuff and seeing what happens out there right now," Cutler said at the half. "As soon as we start getting into the game plan, really nailing stuff down, that's when it's really going to count."
Cutler keyed mostly on Devin Hester, who caught only two of six passes thrown his way for 22 yards. Cutler's best throw came when he hit Desmond Clark in stride up the right hash mark for a 30-yard completion that set up Robbie Gould's opening 23-yard field goal.
"It's a lot of new guys on the field," Hester said, referring to the rough start. "The preseason games are going to help us see where we're at, so that by when the season starts we'll know what we're working with."
Cutler couldn't take advantage against Buffalo's second-string defense and facing a short field after the drive began at the Bills 43 after Dominic Rhodes muffed a punt.
Rhodes made up for that miscue by scoring on a 3-yard run. Bruce Hall also scored on a 4-yard plunge, one play after Lankster's second interception.
The Bills' defense was encouraged by its strong start after giving up two touchdowns on Tennessee's first two possessions last week.
"It's really a big point of emphasis to start fast and finish fast, because I think our team feeds off it, I think we feed off it," linebacker Kawika Mitchell said. "All in all, I think we just played them tough and that was a part of our success."
The Bills defeated Chicago for only the second time in 14 preseason meetings (2-11-1).
Bears backup Caleb Hanie went 8 of 11 for 87 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown pass to Will Ta'ufo'ou. Basanez bounced back, hitting Juaquin Iglesias for a 10-yard touchdown. Gould hit two field goals, including a 50-yarder.
It's a much different story for Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears.
Those expecting Cutler to immediately transform the Bears into anything resembling a pass-happy offense had better be patient. As Cutler was inconsistent in his Bears preseason debut, the Bills' passing game was nearly unstoppable and got plenty of help from an opportunistic defense in a 27-20 victory Saturday night.
"I'm extremely encouraged because it's pressing the defense," Edwards said of the no-huddle attack the Bills have used exclusively since opening the preseason with a 21-18 loss to Tennessee in the Hall of Fame game last weekend. "We improved from last week's game. And now we have to take another step next week."
Except for settling for field goals in the first half, the Bills offense can't get much more efficient, even without Terrell Owens, who's nursing a sprained toe.
Edwards went 10 of 10 for 79 yards to key an efficient outing for the entire Bills quarterback corps, which went a combined 29 of 34 for 265 yards and a touchdown. Third-stringer Gibran Hamdan's 3-yard pass to Shawn Nelson put the Bills up for good 20-13 a minute into the third quarter.
"Efficiency is certainly a good word to describe it," right tackle Brad Butler said. "I would certainly say we're cautiously optimistic."
The defense did its part, too. Aside from limiting Cutler to 3 points and two first downs in four series, Buffalo (1-1) forced five turnovers, including two interceptions by rookie Ellis Lankster on consecutive drives. Both interceptions were thrown by third-stringer Brett Basanez, and led to Buffalo scoring twice in 34-second span.
Many eyes, though, were on Cutler, who failed to meet the much-anticipated offseason buzz he's generated since Chicago acquired him in a blockbuster offseason trade with Denver.
He went 5 of 10 for 64 yards and an interception on a poorly underthrown pass up the left sideline that was picked off by Leodis McKelvin. Cutler nearly threw another interception, but cornerback Reggie Corner dropped the ball that hit him squarely in the chest.
"It's too early to start to panic. It's preseason," Cutler said. "I feel fine about it."
Cutler also noted that the Bears rested starting running back Matt Forte and starting tight end Greg Olsen.
"We're just calling base stuff and seeing what happens out there right now," Cutler said at the half. "As soon as we start getting into the game plan, really nailing stuff down, that's when it's really going to count."
Cutler keyed mostly on Devin Hester, who caught only two of six passes thrown his way for 22 yards. Cutler's best throw came when he hit Desmond Clark in stride up the right hash mark for a 30-yard completion that set up Robbie Gould's opening 23-yard field goal.
"It's a lot of new guys on the field," Hester said, referring to the rough start. "The preseason games are going to help us see where we're at, so that by when the season starts we'll know what we're working with."
Cutler couldn't take advantage against Buffalo's second-string defense and facing a short field after the drive began at the Bills 43 after Dominic Rhodes muffed a punt.
Rhodes made up for that miscue by scoring on a 3-yard run. Bruce Hall also scored on a 4-yard plunge, one play after Lankster's second interception.
The Bills' defense was encouraged by its strong start after giving up two touchdowns on Tennessee's first two possessions last week.
"It's really a big point of emphasis to start fast and finish fast, because I think our team feeds off it, I think we feed off it," linebacker Kawika Mitchell said. "All in all, I think we just played them tough and that was a part of our success."
The Bills defeated Chicago for only the second time in 14 preseason meetings (2-11-1).
Bears backup Caleb Hanie went 8 of 11 for 87 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown pass to Will Ta'ufo'ou. Basanez bounced back, hitting Juaquin Iglesias for a 10-yard touchdown. Gould hit two field goals, including a 50-yarder.
Sanchez to start for Jets!
Welcome to the NFL, Mark Sanchez. Now, let's see what you can do against one of the league's toughest defenses.
The New York Jets rookie quarterback will get his first career start against Ray Lewis and the Baltimore Ravens -- coach Rex Ryan's former team -- in a preseason Monday Night Football game on Aug. 24 (ESPN, 8 p.m. ET).
"I have my work cut out for me," Sanchez said Sunday with a laugh. "That's why it wouldn't be right of me or anyone else to make this a make-or-break game."
After all, it's still just the preseason and the Jets' quarterback competition between Sanchez and Kellen Clemens is far from being decided.
Or is it?
Ryan previously determined that Clemens would start the preseason opener against St. Louis on Friday and the quarterbacks would flip-flop against Baltimore. But after Sanchez, the fifth overall draft pick, sparkled in his debut against St. Louis on Friday, Ryan spoke glowingly of the rookie and did so again Sunday.
"I think he earned the reps with the 1s and all that," Ryan said. "It might have been done on paper that way in pencil, but he had to earn it. The guy had to earn his reps, and I think he's done that. Without question, he's done that."
Sanchez came into the 23-20 loss with 28 seconds left in the first quarter and threw a 48-yard pass to David Clowney on his opening play. He completed three of four passes for 88 yards in one series that was capped by Thomas Jones' 1-yard touchdown dive.
"He actually performed like I thought he would," Ryan said of Sanchez. "He's cool, doesn't get rattled and just went in there and did a great job. He was part of the solution. He let his teammates work and, shoot, they drove it right down the field."
Sanchez, told earlier Sunday that he'd start next Monday night's game, downplayed the decision.
"It's just a matter of the rotation, though," he said. "Nothing's changed yet and it's just the way things shake out, but of course I'm excited."
Meanwhile, Clemens, entering his fourth season, was 4 of 4 for 24 yards and was sacked once -- and lost a fumble -- in two series. He was solid, but lacked the big plays or star presence that Sanchez had; the rookie received a loud ovation when he came in.
"Mark is a very talented player," Clemens said. "I'm in a competition with a guy who obviously has some pretty serious ability. I don't rank myself all that low, either."
But many fans and media believe Sanchez has already taken a significant -- and maybe insurmountable -- lead in the competition.
"I'd say the good thing about that is that it's an outsider's opinion," Clemens said. "It's an insider who's going to make the ultimate decision. Rex has the ultimate decision."
How the quarterbacks perform against the Ravens could go a long way in helping Ryan make that determination.
"Well, yeah, if you do anything against that bunch, you could move it against anybody," Ryan said. "Baltimore and Pittsburgh have been the best defenses in this league for a long time, so if we can move the ball -- and I have confidence in our offense -- but it's going to be a great challenge. It would count more than moving it against St. Louis. No disrespect to St. Louis, but they ain't the Ravens and they're not Pittsburgh."
Ryan said he hadn't yet decided how many plays or series Sanchez and Clemens would play against Baltimore. He previously has said he'd like to have a regular-season starter selected by the third preseason game against the New York Giants on Aug. 29.
"I know I want to have it done then, but I'm not saying that 100 percent it will be," he said. "I'm assuming it will. I'm not going to guarantee that I'm going to have it done at that time."
One factor in playing time next Monday will be how much of the starting offensive line is healthy. The Jets were without center Nick Mangold (right knee), right tackle Damien Woody (head) and left guard Alan Faneca (broken finger) against St. Louis.
Faneca will be sidelined for the Ravens game after having surgery to repair the middle finger on his left hand. Ryan said Faneca had "a screw or two, or four, maybe," inserted, but added that the Pro Bowl lineman will be ready when the regular season begins.
Notes
FB Jehuu Caulcrick (left knee) is questionable for the Ravens game, but Ryan added "he probably will play." ... Stanley Daniels, who started at LG for Faneca vs. St. Louis, was excused from practice for personal reasons. ... Ryan wants his third-team units to scrimmage during practice all week to eliminate mistakes during the Rams game that he said were "embarrassing to me."
The New York Jets rookie quarterback will get his first career start against Ray Lewis and the Baltimore Ravens -- coach Rex Ryan's former team -- in a preseason Monday Night Football game on Aug. 24 (ESPN, 8 p.m. ET).
"I have my work cut out for me," Sanchez said Sunday with a laugh. "That's why it wouldn't be right of me or anyone else to make this a make-or-break game."
After all, it's still just the preseason and the Jets' quarterback competition between Sanchez and Kellen Clemens is far from being decided.
Or is it?
Ryan previously determined that Clemens would start the preseason opener against St. Louis on Friday and the quarterbacks would flip-flop against Baltimore. But after Sanchez, the fifth overall draft pick, sparkled in his debut against St. Louis on Friday, Ryan spoke glowingly of the rookie and did so again Sunday.
"I think he earned the reps with the 1s and all that," Ryan said. "It might have been done on paper that way in pencil, but he had to earn it. The guy had to earn his reps, and I think he's done that. Without question, he's done that."
Sanchez came into the 23-20 loss with 28 seconds left in the first quarter and threw a 48-yard pass to David Clowney on his opening play. He completed three of four passes for 88 yards in one series that was capped by Thomas Jones' 1-yard touchdown dive.
"He actually performed like I thought he would," Ryan said of Sanchez. "He's cool, doesn't get rattled and just went in there and did a great job. He was part of the solution. He let his teammates work and, shoot, they drove it right down the field."
Sanchez, told earlier Sunday that he'd start next Monday night's game, downplayed the decision.
"It's just a matter of the rotation, though," he said. "Nothing's changed yet and it's just the way things shake out, but of course I'm excited."
Meanwhile, Clemens, entering his fourth season, was 4 of 4 for 24 yards and was sacked once -- and lost a fumble -- in two series. He was solid, but lacked the big plays or star presence that Sanchez had; the rookie received a loud ovation when he came in.
"Mark is a very talented player," Clemens said. "I'm in a competition with a guy who obviously has some pretty serious ability. I don't rank myself all that low, either."
But many fans and media believe Sanchez has already taken a significant -- and maybe insurmountable -- lead in the competition.
"I'd say the good thing about that is that it's an outsider's opinion," Clemens said. "It's an insider who's going to make the ultimate decision. Rex has the ultimate decision."
How the quarterbacks perform against the Ravens could go a long way in helping Ryan make that determination.
"Well, yeah, if you do anything against that bunch, you could move it against anybody," Ryan said. "Baltimore and Pittsburgh have been the best defenses in this league for a long time, so if we can move the ball -- and I have confidence in our offense -- but it's going to be a great challenge. It would count more than moving it against St. Louis. No disrespect to St. Louis, but they ain't the Ravens and they're not Pittsburgh."
Ryan said he hadn't yet decided how many plays or series Sanchez and Clemens would play against Baltimore. He previously has said he'd like to have a regular-season starter selected by the third preseason game against the New York Giants on Aug. 29.
"I know I want to have it done then, but I'm not saying that 100 percent it will be," he said. "I'm assuming it will. I'm not going to guarantee that I'm going to have it done at that time."
One factor in playing time next Monday will be how much of the starting offensive line is healthy. The Jets were without center Nick Mangold (right knee), right tackle Damien Woody (head) and left guard Alan Faneca (broken finger) against St. Louis.
Faneca will be sidelined for the Ravens game after having surgery to repair the middle finger on his left hand. Ryan said Faneca had "a screw or two, or four, maybe," inserted, but added that the Pro Bowl lineman will be ready when the regular season begins.
Notes
FB Jehuu Caulcrick (left knee) is questionable for the Ravens game, but Ryan added "he probably will play." ... Stanley Daniels, who started at LG for Faneca vs. St. Louis, was excused from practice for personal reasons. ... Ryan wants his third-team units to scrimmage during practice all week to eliminate mistakes during the Rams game that he said were "embarrassing to me."
Roy Williams latest WR injury...
Dallas Cowboys receiver Roy Williams missed the team's second practice Sunday because of a sprained left wrist sustained when he came down hard earlier in the day.
The Cowboys said X-rays were negative and that Williams, expected to be the team's No. 1 receiver after the departure of Terrell Owens, is day to day. The Cowboys have one practice session Monday.
Williams
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Williams got hurt during the morning practice, and that the concern was that the wrist was still so sore when he returned for the afternoon session. That is when the Cowboys sent Williams for tests.
When Jones cut Owens last spring, the path was cleared for Williams to become quarterback Tony Romo's top target.
"I'm particularly pleased with how focused Roy is, and how conditioned he is," Jones said. "He's having a good camp."
Williams arrived from winless Detroit in mid-October and got a $45 million, five-year contract extension right after Romo sustained a broken pinkie on his throwing hand and missed three games. Williams was then bothered by a foot problem later in the season, plus T.O. was still there.
Williams and Romo started working together several weeks before summer practices, then had OTAs and a mandatory minicamp. And they have been coming together during training camp.
Romo said he wasn't concerned that the injury would stunt their progress.
"Nah, that's part of training camp, little nicks here and there," Romo said. "He's worked his butt off. If anything, it will help him have fresh legs."
Williams caught only 16 passes for 160 yards and no touchdowns in seven games with Romo last season. The lone touchdown pass Williams caught for Dallas was thrown by Brad Johnson during his first two games, when Romo was injured
The Cowboys said X-rays were negative and that Williams, expected to be the team's No. 1 receiver after the departure of Terrell Owens, is day to day. The Cowboys have one practice session Monday.
Williams
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Williams got hurt during the morning practice, and that the concern was that the wrist was still so sore when he returned for the afternoon session. That is when the Cowboys sent Williams for tests.
When Jones cut Owens last spring, the path was cleared for Williams to become quarterback Tony Romo's top target.
"I'm particularly pleased with how focused Roy is, and how conditioned he is," Jones said. "He's having a good camp."
Williams arrived from winless Detroit in mid-October and got a $45 million, five-year contract extension right after Romo sustained a broken pinkie on his throwing hand and missed three games. Williams was then bothered by a foot problem later in the season, plus T.O. was still there.
Williams and Romo started working together several weeks before summer practices, then had OTAs and a mandatory minicamp. And they have been coming together during training camp.
Romo said he wasn't concerned that the injury would stunt their progress.
"Nah, that's part of training camp, little nicks here and there," Romo said. "He's worked his butt off. If anything, it will help him have fresh legs."
Williams caught only 16 passes for 160 yards and no touchdowns in seven games with Romo last season. The lone touchdown pass Williams caught for Dallas was thrown by Brad Johnson during his first two games, when Romo was injured
Friday, August 7, 2009
Michael Crabtree could sit the entire year!
San Francisco 49ers receiver Michael Crabtree is prepared to sit out this season and re-enter the NFL draft in 2010, David Wells, Crabtree's cousin and adviser, said Thursday.
"We are prepared to do it," Wells said. "Michael just wants fair market value. They took him with the 10th pick and you have Darrius Heyward-Bey [the seventh overall pick by the Oakland Raiders] getting $38 million? This week is crucial. Michael was one of the best players in the draft and he just wants to be paid like one of the best players. This week is very crucial."
However, Crabtree's agent told ESPN.com that no such threat has been made on his part.
Addressing the report, agent Eugene Parker told ESPN.com on Thursday afternoon: "You've known me a long time and I'm not a guy who makes threats. Nor am I a guy who negotiates in the public. I don't know where this came from but no such threat has been made."
The 49ers on Thursday released a statement saying that the team does not negotiate in the media. "In our view, there have been open and positive conversations on both sides," the statement says.
Wells said he believes the Niners have made an offer but that it is not acceptable. Wells said Crabtree is ready to start practicing and was held out of organized team activities this spring by coaches only for precautionary reasons.
Crabtree, who turns 22 next month, also missed the 49ers' offseason minicamps while recovering from a foot injury but was a regular presence at team headquarters for rehabilitation and strengthening workouts.
When quarterback Alex Smith was told about the report, he shook his head.
"I haven't spoken to him since the summer," said Smith. "It's something I haven't thought about to tell you the truth. We're pretty focused on the guys we have here right now. I'm not worried about it."
If Crabtree does show up, he'll do so having missed all the OTAs and a growing chunk of training camp. "As a rookie, you're already behind the eight ball," Smith said. "You're just trying to catch up, all the timing that goes with it and trying to know your position, it's hard."
Crabtree caught 97 passes for 1,165 yards and 19 touchdowns last year during his sophomore season at Texas Tech. He finished his collegiate career with 231 receptions, 3,127 yards and 41 TDs.
"We are prepared to do it," Wells said. "Michael just wants fair market value. They took him with the 10th pick and you have Darrius Heyward-Bey [the seventh overall pick by the Oakland Raiders] getting $38 million? This week is crucial. Michael was one of the best players in the draft and he just wants to be paid like one of the best players. This week is very crucial."
However, Crabtree's agent told ESPN.com that no such threat has been made on his part.
Addressing the report, agent Eugene Parker told ESPN.com on Thursday afternoon: "You've known me a long time and I'm not a guy who makes threats. Nor am I a guy who negotiates in the public. I don't know where this came from but no such threat has been made."
The 49ers on Thursday released a statement saying that the team does not negotiate in the media. "In our view, there have been open and positive conversations on both sides," the statement says.
Wells said he believes the Niners have made an offer but that it is not acceptable. Wells said Crabtree is ready to start practicing and was held out of organized team activities this spring by coaches only for precautionary reasons.
Crabtree, who turns 22 next month, also missed the 49ers' offseason minicamps while recovering from a foot injury but was a regular presence at team headquarters for rehabilitation and strengthening workouts.
When quarterback Alex Smith was told about the report, he shook his head.
"I haven't spoken to him since the summer," said Smith. "It's something I haven't thought about to tell you the truth. We're pretty focused on the guys we have here right now. I'm not worried about it."
If Crabtree does show up, he'll do so having missed all the OTAs and a growing chunk of training camp. "As a rookie, you're already behind the eight ball," Smith said. "You're just trying to catch up, all the timing that goes with it and trying to know your position, it's hard."
Crabtree caught 97 passes for 1,165 yards and 19 touchdowns last year during his sophomore season at Texas Tech. He finished his collegiate career with 231 receptions, 3,127 yards and 41 TDs.
Reggie Bush suffers setback!
Even after going through a full practice, New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush had to answer questions about his left knee.
"The knee is fine," Bush said Wednesday night. "It's great. You saw me running."
Bush went through the afternoon session after concerns about his knee swirled due to a report that he left the morning practice early, iced his knee and then returned with a limp. While the story implied that Bush had suffered a setback, the Saints said that was not correct, that it was all part of the daily plan.
"I warmed up and ran through stretches with the team and then [went inside and] put ice on it," Bush said. "That was it, so I guess they suspected I came out, but I never even started practice."
The Saints have been cautious with Bush since the start of camp, often giving him practices off.
"That's been the protocol since Day 1," Bush said.
"The knee is fine," Bush said Wednesday night. "It's great. You saw me running."
Bush went through the afternoon session after concerns about his knee swirled due to a report that he left the morning practice early, iced his knee and then returned with a limp. While the story implied that Bush had suffered a setback, the Saints said that was not correct, that it was all part of the daily plan.
"I warmed up and ran through stretches with the team and then [went inside and] put ice on it," Bush said. "That was it, so I guess they suspected I came out, but I never even started practice."
The Saints have been cautious with Bush since the start of camp, often giving him practices off.
"That's been the protocol since Day 1," Bush said.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Reggie Bush injured!
After Reggie Bush left New Orleans Saints practice on Tuesday morning to ice his surgically repaired left knee, the running back said that he wasn't worried.
"I iced it just as a precaution, so when I ice it, that means I'm just maintaining," Bush said. "I've got to stay on top of it and treat it as if it was the first day I injured it."
Bush discarded the ice after a while and continued to stand with the running backs, still wearing his jersey and shoulder pads, for the remainder of practice. But he did not participate in drills and looked stiff as he walked with a slight limp.
Bush had surgery on his left knee last December to repair cartilage. Drafted second overall in 2006, the former Heisman Trophy winner out of Southern California has missed 10 games in his past two NFL seasons.
Head coach Sean Payton has already held Bush out of a couple practices on days when the Saints practice twice, limiting the star running back to one practice a day.
The Saints had two practices scheduled on Wednesday, and Bush said he planned to practice in the afternoon. Payton said that was the plan as well.
When Bush has practiced, he has done so vigorously. As recently as Tuesday afternoon, he turned an end run into a 15-yard touchdown during 11-on-11 drills.
Bush said he's had one MRI performed since training camp began late last week and said "everything came back great."
"Now it's just about getting myself back to football shape and getting my knee back to carrying the load again," Bush said.
Payton stressed that the Saints need to be careful with Bush and added he was confident the star running back is healthy enough to play in a regular-season game now.
"He's doing well," Payton said. "I'm just trying to be smart about the amount of work I give him so that it doesn't become a bigger factor when we get ready to play in the season. But he'd play this evening if we were playing. ... I'm not concerned with Reggie at all.
"I iced it just as a precaution, so when I ice it, that means I'm just maintaining," Bush said. "I've got to stay on top of it and treat it as if it was the first day I injured it."
Bush discarded the ice after a while and continued to stand with the running backs, still wearing his jersey and shoulder pads, for the remainder of practice. But he did not participate in drills and looked stiff as he walked with a slight limp.
Bush had surgery on his left knee last December to repair cartilage. Drafted second overall in 2006, the former Heisman Trophy winner out of Southern California has missed 10 games in his past two NFL seasons.
Head coach Sean Payton has already held Bush out of a couple practices on days when the Saints practice twice, limiting the star running back to one practice a day.
The Saints had two practices scheduled on Wednesday, and Bush said he planned to practice in the afternoon. Payton said that was the plan as well.
When Bush has practiced, he has done so vigorously. As recently as Tuesday afternoon, he turned an end run into a 15-yard touchdown during 11-on-11 drills.
Bush said he's had one MRI performed since training camp began late last week and said "everything came back great."
"Now it's just about getting myself back to football shape and getting my knee back to carrying the load again," Bush said.
Payton stressed that the Saints need to be careful with Bush and added he was confident the star running back is healthy enough to play in a regular-season game now.
"He's doing well," Payton said. "I'm just trying to be smart about the amount of work I give him so that it doesn't become a bigger factor when we get ready to play in the season. But he'd play this evening if we were playing. ... I'm not concerned with Reggie at all.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Matt Cassel gets another weapon!
Amani Toomer has signed a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, according to source.
Toomer, who has played all 13 of his seasons with the New York Giants, has 668 career receptions for 9,497 yards and 54 touchdowns.
Last season, Toomer caught 48 passes for 580 yards and four touchdowns.
Toomer, who has played all 13 of his seasons with the New York Giants, has 668 career receptions for 9,497 yards and 54 touchdowns.
Last season, Toomer caught 48 passes for 580 yards and four touchdowns.
Marshawn Lynch suspension upheld!
Buffalo Bills running back Marshawn Lynch's three-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy will stand.
The league announced that Lynch's appeal was denied in a statement released Monday afternoon.
Lynch's suspension begins on Sept. 5 and ends on Sept. 28, a day after the Bills play the New Orleans Saints in their third regular-season game.
Lynch, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards in each of his two seasons with the Bills, will be allowed to participate in all preseason practices and games before Sept. 5.
Lynch pleaded guilty in March to a misdemeanor gun charge in Los Angeles. He was sentenced to 80 hours of community service and three years probation.
"We are disappointed, obviously," Bills head coach Dick Jauron said after the team's afternoon practice at St. John Fisher College in Pittsford, N.Y. "We'll lose a real good football player for three games. But, hopefully, Marshawn has learned a good deal from it."
The suspension resulted from the player's arrest in Culver City, Calif., on Feb. 11, when police searched a parked car Lynch was in and found a 9mm semiautomatic handgun in a backpack in the trunk. Police also found four marijuana cigarettes in the car, but no drug charges were filed.
It was Lynch's second run-in with the law following a hit-and run-accident in Buffalo in May 2008. In that incident, he pleaded guilty to a traffic violation and admitted to driving off after striking a female pedestrian with his car near Buffalo's downtown bar district.
The Bills signed veteran running back Dominic Rhodes and re-signed Fred Jackson in the offseason.
The league announced that Lynch's appeal was denied in a statement released Monday afternoon.
Lynch's suspension begins on Sept. 5 and ends on Sept. 28, a day after the Bills play the New Orleans Saints in their third regular-season game.
Lynch, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards in each of his two seasons with the Bills, will be allowed to participate in all preseason practices and games before Sept. 5.
Lynch pleaded guilty in March to a misdemeanor gun charge in Los Angeles. He was sentenced to 80 hours of community service and three years probation.
"We are disappointed, obviously," Bills head coach Dick Jauron said after the team's afternoon practice at St. John Fisher College in Pittsford, N.Y. "We'll lose a real good football player for three games. But, hopefully, Marshawn has learned a good deal from it."
The suspension resulted from the player's arrest in Culver City, Calif., on Feb. 11, when police searched a parked car Lynch was in and found a 9mm semiautomatic handgun in a backpack in the trunk. Police also found four marijuana cigarettes in the car, but no drug charges were filed.
It was Lynch's second run-in with the law following a hit-and run-accident in Buffalo in May 2008. In that incident, he pleaded guilty to a traffic violation and admitted to driving off after striking a female pedestrian with his car near Buffalo's downtown bar district.
The Bills signed veteran running back Dominic Rhodes and re-signed Fred Jackson in the offseason.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Derrick Mason is back!
Baltimore Ravens receiver Derrick Mason has shown up to training camp at McDaniels College in Westminster, Md., and is going to end his retirement.
Mason, who met with coach John Harbaugh and general manager Ozzie Newsome on Saturday to discuss the matter, was expected to send a letter to the NFL stating his intentions to rejoin the team.
"It was a tough decision, but I think it was a good decision for me to come back," Mason said in a statement. "I needed to evaluate my life, football and my career.
"I still have an intense fire inside me, and I want to play. … I felt like I had left something undone, and I wanted to finish it. I believe this is a good example for my son and my daughter on how to be thoughtful and also follow through."
He called Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti on Saturday morning to express his decision to return.
He was taking a physical Saturday afternoon and was set for a conditioning test afterward, with intention to suiting up for practice Sunday.
Mason retired less than a week after the murder of close friend Steve McNair.
The loss of his friend, family pressure, and the team's unwillingness to adjust his $3 million salary combined to lead to a surprise retirement announcement July 13.
Harbaugh talked to Mason after the announcement and said he was optimistic that Mason would return. Camp started without Mason, but Harbaugh left the door open for Mason's arrival.
The 35-year-old played a key role in helping Baltimore reach the AFC Championship Game last season. He started all 16 games and led the Ravens in receptions (80) and yards receiving (1,037). He then added 12 catches for 190 yards and a touchdown in three playoff games.
Before Mason's retirement, the Ravens had been in the market for another veteran receiver. His retirement had put them in need of two receivers.
With Mason gone, Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams were the only receivers on the roster with catches last season. Clayton and Williams combined for 55 catches last season.
Mason, who met with coach John Harbaugh and general manager Ozzie Newsome on Saturday to discuss the matter, was expected to send a letter to the NFL stating his intentions to rejoin the team.
"It was a tough decision, but I think it was a good decision for me to come back," Mason said in a statement. "I needed to evaluate my life, football and my career.
"I still have an intense fire inside me, and I want to play. … I felt like I had left something undone, and I wanted to finish it. I believe this is a good example for my son and my daughter on how to be thoughtful and also follow through."
He called Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti on Saturday morning to express his decision to return.
He was taking a physical Saturday afternoon and was set for a conditioning test afterward, with intention to suiting up for practice Sunday.
Mason retired less than a week after the murder of close friend Steve McNair.
The loss of his friend, family pressure, and the team's unwillingness to adjust his $3 million salary combined to lead to a surprise retirement announcement July 13.
Harbaugh talked to Mason after the announcement and said he was optimistic that Mason would return. Camp started without Mason, but Harbaugh left the door open for Mason's arrival.
The 35-year-old played a key role in helping Baltimore reach the AFC Championship Game last season. He started all 16 games and led the Ravens in receptions (80) and yards receiving (1,037). He then added 12 catches for 190 yards and a touchdown in three playoff games.
Before Mason's retirement, the Ravens had been in the market for another veteran receiver. His retirement had put them in need of two receivers.
With Mason gone, Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams were the only receivers on the roster with catches last season. Clayton and Williams combined for 55 catches last season.
Percy Harvin signs!
While many rookies who hold out of training camp fall dangerously behind as their teams practice without them, Percy Harvin took advantage of a luxury that few others enjoy: his friendship with Tim Tebow.
While Harvin's agent Joel Segal negotiated with the Minnesota Vikings, the speedy receiver spent his days on the campus of his alma mater catching passes from Tebow, his Heisman Trophy-winning teammate the past three seasons at Florida.
"He's probably the best thing other than a pro quarterback," Harvin said Sunday, after signing a five-year deal with the Vikings. "Of course he's not a pro quarterback, but I got the best work in I could do without actually being here."
Harvin, the 22nd overall pick, missed the first two days and four practices of training camp, but hopped an early flight from Florida to the Twin Cities to make sure he got there in time for Sunday's practice.
"I don't think anybody was more anxious to get on the field than me today," Harvin said.
Well, maybe there was one.
Coach Brad Childress said that it was important for Harvin to get into camp as soon as possible so he didn't fall too far behind. He'll be asked to play a variety of roles for the Vikings, including wide receiver, running back and return man, so he has plenty of studying to do.
"We're going to challenge him," Childress said. "It's not like we're going to spoon feed him."
While many scouts and draft analysts said Harvin had top-10 talent, he slipped to the Vikings due to concerns about his durability and a failed drug test at the NFL combine.
Childress had some of the same concerns, so he flew to Florida and met personally with Harvin and his family before the draft. The coach came away impressed by his willingness to take responsibility for past mistakes and didn't hesitate to draft Harvin when the Vikings came on the clock.
"It's a dream come true," Harvin said after his first official practice. "For me, there was a lot of bumps that prevented myself from getting to this point. It seemed to be a little farther than it actually was.
"But to actually get here, everything's behind me. I can kind of start over here. I'm just glad to be here and thankful and ready to hit the ground running."
The versatile playmaker is expected to complement Adrian Peterson in Minnesota's ramped-up offense. During minicamps earlier this summer, Childress and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell began experimenting with their new toy. They lined up Harvin at receiver out wide, in the slot, and motioned him into the backfield on reverses and other running plays.
His arrival could also bring a version of the Wildcat offense to Minnesota. Harvin and Peterson in the same backfield would give the Vikings a dynamic element that's been missing since Childress took over in 2006.
Harvin also could bolster the team's mediocre return game. His quickness and ability to change directions in a heartbeat make him ideal for the job.
"Return man. Slot. A little bit in the backfield," Harvin said. "The motions. The screens. I'm looking to be all over."
The Vikings threw him right into the mix on Sunday, giving him some time with the No. 1 offense during a goal-line installation and running reverses, catching passes and fielding kickoffs.
"He's playing big, he's playing fast, making turns like on the drop of a dime," tight end Visanthe Shiancoe said, "and he's catching everything."
While Harvin's agent Joel Segal negotiated with the Minnesota Vikings, the speedy receiver spent his days on the campus of his alma mater catching passes from Tebow, his Heisman Trophy-winning teammate the past three seasons at Florida.
"He's probably the best thing other than a pro quarterback," Harvin said Sunday, after signing a five-year deal with the Vikings. "Of course he's not a pro quarterback, but I got the best work in I could do without actually being here."
Harvin, the 22nd overall pick, missed the first two days and four practices of training camp, but hopped an early flight from Florida to the Twin Cities to make sure he got there in time for Sunday's practice.
"I don't think anybody was more anxious to get on the field than me today," Harvin said.
Well, maybe there was one.
Coach Brad Childress said that it was important for Harvin to get into camp as soon as possible so he didn't fall too far behind. He'll be asked to play a variety of roles for the Vikings, including wide receiver, running back and return man, so he has plenty of studying to do.
"We're going to challenge him," Childress said. "It's not like we're going to spoon feed him."
While many scouts and draft analysts said Harvin had top-10 talent, he slipped to the Vikings due to concerns about his durability and a failed drug test at the NFL combine.
Childress had some of the same concerns, so he flew to Florida and met personally with Harvin and his family before the draft. The coach came away impressed by his willingness to take responsibility for past mistakes and didn't hesitate to draft Harvin when the Vikings came on the clock.
"It's a dream come true," Harvin said after his first official practice. "For me, there was a lot of bumps that prevented myself from getting to this point. It seemed to be a little farther than it actually was.
"But to actually get here, everything's behind me. I can kind of start over here. I'm just glad to be here and thankful and ready to hit the ground running."
The versatile playmaker is expected to complement Adrian Peterson in Minnesota's ramped-up offense. During minicamps earlier this summer, Childress and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell began experimenting with their new toy. They lined up Harvin at receiver out wide, in the slot, and motioned him into the backfield on reverses and other running plays.
His arrival could also bring a version of the Wildcat offense to Minnesota. Harvin and Peterson in the same backfield would give the Vikings a dynamic element that's been missing since Childress took over in 2006.
Harvin also could bolster the team's mediocre return game. His quickness and ability to change directions in a heartbeat make him ideal for the job.
"Return man. Slot. A little bit in the backfield," Harvin said. "The motions. The screens. I'm looking to be all over."
The Vikings threw him right into the mix on Sunday, giving him some time with the No. 1 offense during a goal-line installation and running reverses, catching passes and fielding kickoffs.
"He's playing big, he's playing fast, making turns like on the drop of a dime," tight end Visanthe Shiancoe said, "and he's catching everything."
Beanie Wells is injured!
Rookie running back Beanie Wells sprained his right ankle in his first training camp practice with the Arizona Cardinals.
Coach Ken Whisenhunt said Sunday the injury doesn't appear serious but it's uncertain how much practice time Arizona's first-round draft pick will miss.
"We'll see how he progresses through the week," Whisenhunt said. "I don't anticipate it will be what everybody's reacting to, saying he's out for a month or something like that."
Wells agreed on a five-year, $11.8 million contract, with $6.3 million guaranteed, on Saturday. He was hurt later in the day when he was carrying the ball in a drill near the end of the workout.
"It was a little pain but I got up and walked off with it," he said. "It wasn't anything too serious. They just wanted to get an MRI and get it checked out."
Wells watched Sunday's practice and afterward acknowledged his frustration.
"I'm definitely disappointed about it," he said. "I've been going through the injury thing quite a while now and yesterday was just a fluke. It could have happened to anybody. Somebody just rolled up on my ankle."
Wells, who missed the first three games of his final season at Ohio State with a foot problem, was grateful this injury wasn't more serious.
"If you guys saw it it was a bad play and I'm just fortunate to walk away from it with nothing but an ankle sprain," he said.
Wells already was behind after missing the team's summer voluntary workouts because his Ohio State classes were still in session.
"I'm still staying caught up with Coach [Curtis] Modkins and the rest of the running backs in the film room," Wells said.
After he arrived Saturday, Wells said it was his goal to win the No. 1 running back job by the start of regular season. Second-year pro Tim Hightower is listed as the starter. Wells said his feelings haven't changed.
"I think an ankle sprain is nothing too major," he said. "If I get on top of it, it will go away quickly."
Whisenhunt downplayed the significance of the injury to Wells' status on the team.
"Unfortunately for Beanie, he's a rookie and it would have been nice to get him some reps," the coach said, "but we still have plenty of time to do that."
Coach Ken Whisenhunt said Sunday the injury doesn't appear serious but it's uncertain how much practice time Arizona's first-round draft pick will miss.
"We'll see how he progresses through the week," Whisenhunt said. "I don't anticipate it will be what everybody's reacting to, saying he's out for a month or something like that."
Wells agreed on a five-year, $11.8 million contract, with $6.3 million guaranteed, on Saturday. He was hurt later in the day when he was carrying the ball in a drill near the end of the workout.
"It was a little pain but I got up and walked off with it," he said. "It wasn't anything too serious. They just wanted to get an MRI and get it checked out."
Wells watched Sunday's practice and afterward acknowledged his frustration.
"I'm definitely disappointed about it," he said. "I've been going through the injury thing quite a while now and yesterday was just a fluke. It could have happened to anybody. Somebody just rolled up on my ankle."
Wells, who missed the first three games of his final season at Ohio State with a foot problem, was grateful this injury wasn't more serious.
"If you guys saw it it was a bad play and I'm just fortunate to walk away from it with nothing but an ankle sprain," he said.
Wells already was behind after missing the team's summer voluntary workouts because his Ohio State classes were still in session.
"I'm still staying caught up with Coach [Curtis] Modkins and the rest of the running backs in the film room," Wells said.
After he arrived Saturday, Wells said it was his goal to win the No. 1 running back job by the start of regular season. Second-year pro Tim Hightower is listed as the starter. Wells said his feelings haven't changed.
"I think an ankle sprain is nothing too major," he said. "If I get on top of it, it will go away quickly."
Whisenhunt downplayed the significance of the injury to Wells' status on the team.
"Unfortunately for Beanie, he's a rookie and it would have been nice to get him some reps," the coach said, "but we still have plenty of time to do that."
Brady Quinn vs. Derek Anderson
Once Eric Mangini picks a starting quarterback, the new Cleveland Browns coach intends to stick with him.
Mangini said Sunday that he will not rotate his QBs, that he has no timetable on picking between Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn and that he envisions both players staying on the Browns' roster once the regular season begins.
Mangini, who will spend the bulk of training camp evaluating them, shot down any thought of switching starters on a weekly basis. He also said that once he declares Anderson or Quinn as the No. 1 quarterback, he intends to stay with his choice.
"Once you make that decision and go with that decision, then at that point you're moving forward with that group," Mangini said.
There's a chance the Browns could be approached by other teams looking for a quarterback later this summer, but Mangini also sees both Anderson and Quinn staying with the team for the foreseeable future.
"In my mind, Brady and D.A. will both be here," Mangini said.
Anderson and Quinn are expected to split playing time and practice reps over the next few weeks. The Browns play their first preseason game Aug. 15 in Green Bay.
On Sunday, Anderson appeared to make better passes than Quinn during practice. Mangini said the twosome came into camp in a dead heat for the starting job.
Mangini said Sunday that he will not rotate his QBs, that he has no timetable on picking between Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn and that he envisions both players staying on the Browns' roster once the regular season begins.
Mangini, who will spend the bulk of training camp evaluating them, shot down any thought of switching starters on a weekly basis. He also said that once he declares Anderson or Quinn as the No. 1 quarterback, he intends to stay with his choice.
"Once you make that decision and go with that decision, then at that point you're moving forward with that group," Mangini said.
There's a chance the Browns could be approached by other teams looking for a quarterback later this summer, but Mangini also sees both Anderson and Quinn staying with the team for the foreseeable future.
"In my mind, Brady and D.A. will both be here," Mangini said.
Anderson and Quinn are expected to split playing time and practice reps over the next few weeks. The Browns play their first preseason game Aug. 15 in Green Bay.
On Sunday, Anderson appeared to make better passes than Quinn during practice. Mangini said the twosome came into camp in a dead heat for the starting job.
Carson Palmer back to 100%
After a two-day hiatus, Cincinnati Bengals starting quarterback Carson Palmer rejoined his team at training camp and participated in a Monday morning practice.
Palmer felt ill Saturday and missed the Bengals' last two sessions. According to a source, he was dealing with flu-like symptoms over the weekend. Backups J.T. O'Sullivan and Jordan Palmer took over the duties at quarterback for Cincinnati.
Carson Palmer, who is coming off an elbow injury that cut short his 2008 season, needs all the reps he can get in training camp. He hasn't played in an NFL game since last Oct. 5 as the Bengals finished 4-11-1.
Palmer felt ill Saturday and missed the Bengals' last two sessions. According to a source, he was dealing with flu-like symptoms over the weekend. Backups J.T. O'Sullivan and Jordan Palmer took over the duties at quarterback for Cincinnati.
Carson Palmer, who is coming off an elbow injury that cut short his 2008 season, needs all the reps he can get in training camp. He hasn't played in an NFL game since last Oct. 5 as the Bengals finished 4-11-1.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Brett Favre on a deadline!
Brett Favre acknowledged he's "running out of time" to decide whether he'll play for the Minnesota Vikings this season.
The quarterback told The Associated Press that he'll give the Vikings an answer on whether he'll play by the July 30 start of training camp. Favre has been working out with the Oak Grove High School football team three days a week all summer, but added a Sunday workout this week.
“
There's two weeks left and I'm doing everything I can. I was down here Sunday morning working out. I'm trying to get everything to where I feel 100 percent when I go in. I can't go in any less. When you're 39 years old, it's hard enough. But it's getting there.
” -- Brett Favre
"There's two weeks left and I'm doing everything I can," Favre said. "I was down here Sunday morning working out. I'm trying to get everything to where I feel 100 percent when I go in. I can't go in any less. When you're 39 years old, it's hard enough. But it's getting there."
The former Packers and Jets quarterback said surgery to repair a biceps tendon in his throwing arm was successful and that he has enough velocity to return to the NFL. He's just not sure whether that means he'll be able to compete for an entire season.
"I felt like going to New York last year that I still had it," Favre said. "I didn't know my arm was hurt at the time. So that's what I try to get across to people. I had that fixed, the surgery to fix that. So I'm trying to make sure that if I go back that that part is completely resolved."
It sure looked like it Wednesday morning, when a jovial Favre hit a variety of passes to high school and college wide receivers. He was crisp on short timing passes and was hitting receivers in the end zone from about 50 yards away. He attempted a few deep passes off bootlegs and usually hit his targets in stride.
Favre's spirals held true and he proved he still has plenty of zip when he tossed a deep pass to a college receiver who dropped by to work out. The pass split the receiver's hands and hit him in the face.
"He's a senior from Southeastern Louisiana, so I put a little more on it," Favre said with a smile.
Favre said if the arm strength wasn't there, he wouldn't be making a bid to return for his 19th season in the league.
"I don't think Minnesota would even consider it if I didn't have it," Favre said. "Second of all, I wouldn't even think about it if I didn't have it. Now, having it here and having in on the field on Sundays is two different things, I know that for a fact. I know what it takes to play on Sunday and I still believe I have that."
Favre said his hesitation is more about what those watching him practice might not see. He used a golfing analogy to explain his situation. What if, he asked, Tiger Woods came back and found he didn't have the same game?
"He goes out and hits a 2 iron and he thinks it will go the normal distance it has all his life, then all of a sudden it's 13 yards short, and he says, 'I don't know why that is because everything felt perfect,' so that's what I have to get through," Favre said.
"If you're throwing and it's a little off and you have a little pain, it's a little bit understandable. If there's no pain and there's no excuse, that's where you've got a problem. So I want to go out and have one of those days throwing and then have another where all of those throws you make, every warmup throw you make or just in general, feels perfect."
Favre was released by the Jets earlier this year, clearing the way for him to sign with any team willing to take him. Dr. James Andrews performed surgery May 22 to address the injured biceps tendon, which hampered Favre down the stretch last season.
The Vikings have remained mostly quiet on the topic in recent weeks, preferring to let Favre work through his rehabilitation from the surgery and make up his own mind.
At a fan forum in June, owner Zygi Wilf made it clear officials were receptive to Favre joining the team and the decision was Favre's to make.
"Right now, it's all up to Brett Favre in terms of where his future is at," Wilf told about 1,200 fans gathered at the State Theatre. "I'll just leave it at that."
Coach Brad Childress has had sporadic conversations with Favre throughout the summer.
"He's trying to make a push to get back," Childress said in June. "I just know this, he won't play unless he feels like he's able to play at the level that he's played over the course of the years. I know he's working hard."
The quarterback told The Associated Press that he'll give the Vikings an answer on whether he'll play by the July 30 start of training camp. Favre has been working out with the Oak Grove High School football team three days a week all summer, but added a Sunday workout this week.
“
There's two weeks left and I'm doing everything I can. I was down here Sunday morning working out. I'm trying to get everything to where I feel 100 percent when I go in. I can't go in any less. When you're 39 years old, it's hard enough. But it's getting there.
” -- Brett Favre
"There's two weeks left and I'm doing everything I can," Favre said. "I was down here Sunday morning working out. I'm trying to get everything to where I feel 100 percent when I go in. I can't go in any less. When you're 39 years old, it's hard enough. But it's getting there."
The former Packers and Jets quarterback said surgery to repair a biceps tendon in his throwing arm was successful and that he has enough velocity to return to the NFL. He's just not sure whether that means he'll be able to compete for an entire season.
"I felt like going to New York last year that I still had it," Favre said. "I didn't know my arm was hurt at the time. So that's what I try to get across to people. I had that fixed, the surgery to fix that. So I'm trying to make sure that if I go back that that part is completely resolved."
It sure looked like it Wednesday morning, when a jovial Favre hit a variety of passes to high school and college wide receivers. He was crisp on short timing passes and was hitting receivers in the end zone from about 50 yards away. He attempted a few deep passes off bootlegs and usually hit his targets in stride.
Favre's spirals held true and he proved he still has plenty of zip when he tossed a deep pass to a college receiver who dropped by to work out. The pass split the receiver's hands and hit him in the face.
"He's a senior from Southeastern Louisiana, so I put a little more on it," Favre said with a smile.
Favre said if the arm strength wasn't there, he wouldn't be making a bid to return for his 19th season in the league.
"I don't think Minnesota would even consider it if I didn't have it," Favre said. "Second of all, I wouldn't even think about it if I didn't have it. Now, having it here and having in on the field on Sundays is two different things, I know that for a fact. I know what it takes to play on Sunday and I still believe I have that."
Favre said his hesitation is more about what those watching him practice might not see. He used a golfing analogy to explain his situation. What if, he asked, Tiger Woods came back and found he didn't have the same game?
"He goes out and hits a 2 iron and he thinks it will go the normal distance it has all his life, then all of a sudden it's 13 yards short, and he says, 'I don't know why that is because everything felt perfect,' so that's what I have to get through," Favre said.
"If you're throwing and it's a little off and you have a little pain, it's a little bit understandable. If there's no pain and there's no excuse, that's where you've got a problem. So I want to go out and have one of those days throwing and then have another where all of those throws you make, every warmup throw you make or just in general, feels perfect."
Favre was released by the Jets earlier this year, clearing the way for him to sign with any team willing to take him. Dr. James Andrews performed surgery May 22 to address the injured biceps tendon, which hampered Favre down the stretch last season.
The Vikings have remained mostly quiet on the topic in recent weeks, preferring to let Favre work through his rehabilitation from the surgery and make up his own mind.
At a fan forum in June, owner Zygi Wilf made it clear officials were receptive to Favre joining the team and the decision was Favre's to make.
"Right now, it's all up to Brett Favre in terms of where his future is at," Wilf told about 1,200 fans gathered at the State Theatre. "I'll just leave it at that."
Coach Brad Childress has had sporadic conversations with Favre throughout the summer.
"He's trying to make a push to get back," Childress said in June. "I just know this, he won't play unless he feels like he's able to play at the level that he's played over the course of the years. I know he's working hard."
Friday, June 19, 2009
Is Matt Ryan a top 5 Fantasy QB?
Matt Ryan’s(notes) teammates say the quarterback will be even better in 2009 than he was when he won widespread acclaim as the NFL’s offensive rookie of the year last season.
“By leaps and bounds,” Atlanta fullback Ovie Mughelli(notes) said of Ryan on Wednesday as the Falcons approached the end of their organized team activities. “It’s actually scary how much he’s improved and it’s only his second year. People thought he couldn’t get much better than last year.
“In the weight room, what he’s done out here, his arm strength, the way he reads plays, he’s gotten better in every aspect.”
The Falcons will have their last day of workouts Thursday and begin training camp on Aug. 1.
Ryan led the Falcons to an 11-5 record—an unexpected jump from a 4-12 finish in 2007—and a playoff spot last season. Michael Turner(notes) rushed for 1,699 yards and 17 touchdowns in his first season as a full-time starter, and Roddy White(notes) had 88 receptions for 1,382 yards.
Ryan, Turner, White and Mughelli have been joined by 10-time Pro Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez(notes), who was acquired from Kansas City.
The Falcons, who a year ago were a popular pick to finish last in the NFC South, now look like a rising force, especially on offense.
“The thing you see out there across the board is confidence, starting with Matt at quarterback, all the way down,” said center Todd McClure(notes). “Everybody just has a different confidence than we had even last year, because we were trying to learn a new system. Now we have a year under our belt and that confidence can take us a long way if we can just stay together.”
Coach Mike Smith(notes) says he has focused on the Falcons’ passing game in the organized workouts.
“Matt is making good decisions and being accurate with the football,” Smith said. “I don’t think those two traits can be overlooked. That’s what we’ve emphasized with Matt, make better decisions and to be more accurate throwing the football.”
Ryan says the Falcons already are preparing to deal with increased expectations.
“I heard a quote from coach Smith, ‘expect to win but don’t get caught up in expectations,”’ Ryan said. “I think that’s pretty pertinent because you can’t worry about all the long-term stuff. You just have to go out there and have confidence in yourself and not worry about all the long-term stuff that goes with it.”
Ryan said he began studying film after the Falcons’ playoff loss to Arizona as he focused on making better decisions in key situations.
“The No. 1 thing going into the offseason for me was to improve the decision making and so I’ve watched a ton of film, just trying to get better and to sharpen up for next season,” he said. “I’m going to continue to do that for the next two or three months.”
Ryan completed 61.1 percent of his passes for 3,440 yards with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He said there’s much room to reach the levels of improvement that Mughelli sees.
“Quarterbacks make their living on third down and in the red zone, so those are areas I felt I could improve on from last year,” he said. “You also make your living at the end of the game so you want to make good plays and make good decisions in two-minute situations, so those are areas I definitely focused on.”
“By leaps and bounds,” Atlanta fullback Ovie Mughelli(notes) said of Ryan on Wednesday as the Falcons approached the end of their organized team activities. “It’s actually scary how much he’s improved and it’s only his second year. People thought he couldn’t get much better than last year.
“In the weight room, what he’s done out here, his arm strength, the way he reads plays, he’s gotten better in every aspect.”
The Falcons will have their last day of workouts Thursday and begin training camp on Aug. 1.
Ryan led the Falcons to an 11-5 record—an unexpected jump from a 4-12 finish in 2007—and a playoff spot last season. Michael Turner(notes) rushed for 1,699 yards and 17 touchdowns in his first season as a full-time starter, and Roddy White(notes) had 88 receptions for 1,382 yards.
Ryan, Turner, White and Mughelli have been joined by 10-time Pro Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez(notes), who was acquired from Kansas City.
The Falcons, who a year ago were a popular pick to finish last in the NFC South, now look like a rising force, especially on offense.
“The thing you see out there across the board is confidence, starting with Matt at quarterback, all the way down,” said center Todd McClure(notes). “Everybody just has a different confidence than we had even last year, because we were trying to learn a new system. Now we have a year under our belt and that confidence can take us a long way if we can just stay together.”
Coach Mike Smith(notes) says he has focused on the Falcons’ passing game in the organized workouts.
“Matt is making good decisions and being accurate with the football,” Smith said. “I don’t think those two traits can be overlooked. That’s what we’ve emphasized with Matt, make better decisions and to be more accurate throwing the football.”
Ryan says the Falcons already are preparing to deal with increased expectations.
“I heard a quote from coach Smith, ‘expect to win but don’t get caught up in expectations,”’ Ryan said. “I think that’s pretty pertinent because you can’t worry about all the long-term stuff. You just have to go out there and have confidence in yourself and not worry about all the long-term stuff that goes with it.”
Ryan said he began studying film after the Falcons’ playoff loss to Arizona as he focused on making better decisions in key situations.
“The No. 1 thing going into the offseason for me was to improve the decision making and so I’ve watched a ton of film, just trying to get better and to sharpen up for next season,” he said. “I’m going to continue to do that for the next two or three months.”
Ryan completed 61.1 percent of his passes for 3,440 yards with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He said there’s much room to reach the levels of improvement that Mughelli sees.
“Quarterbacks make their living on third down and in the red zone, so those are areas I felt I could improve on from last year,” he said. “You also make your living at the end of the game so you want to make good plays and make good decisions in two-minute situations, so those are areas I definitely focused on.”
Carson Palmer back to 100%
Carson Palmer(notes) squinted into the harsh afternoon sun, sizing up the defense. He pointed to the middle of the field with both index fingers, took the snap and threw a quick pass to rookie receiver Quan Cosby, a crisp spiral that zipped over defenders’ outstretched hands.
Perfect. Just what the Cincinnati Bengals have been missing.
Their franchise quarterback, the one with the balky elbow, was back at the center of the offense Thursday, running the show during the first day of minicamp. He wore long, white sleeves and black sweat pants, keeping his California cool in the midday heat.
It looked and felt like old times.
“Carson, he’s sweet,” receiver Chad Ochocinco said. “He’s on top of his stuff. As far as the elbow (injury), it’s got to be gone because all of the balls had the normal zip. He’s on point.”
Not quite, but close. Certainly close enough for the Bengals to think that they have a chance to become respectable again.
Palmer missed a dozen games during Cincinnati’s 4-11-1 season last year. He partially tore a ligament and tendon from the bone in his passing elbow, and got conflicting medical advice on what to do about it. He could have gotten reconstructive surgery, but chose to see if it would heal on its own.
So far, it’s apparent he made the right choice. Palmer has been throwing informally and during voluntary team workouts, slowly building back his strength.
“It’s getting stronger in the sense that I can throw for longer,” Palmer said after the morning practice. “I have the same speed on the ball at the end of practice. I’m starting to get to the point now where the ball’s not dying at the end of practice.”
The Bengals are keeping Palmer on the equivalent of a pitch count, limiting the number of throws he makes in practice until the season begins. After his completion to Cosby in the afternoon session, Palmer removed his helmet, covered his head with a white towel and turned spectator.
Palmer’s return to form—and Ochocinco’s return to the fold—buoyed a team still smarting from its worst showing under seventh-year coach Marvin Lewis. Palmer got hurt in the third game last season, a loss to the Giants in which his arm was hit while he threw. He played one more game, sensed the elbow wasn’t right and went for tests that detected the season-ending injury.
While Palmer recovered, Ochocinco groused. He caught only 53 passes for 540 yards last season, after failing to force a trade. He skipped most of the voluntary workouts in the offseason, but showed up last week with a smile and an upbeat demeanor.
“I’m back,” Ochocinco said. “I can’t explain it any other way. Before last year, this is how I was. I was good. I was happy. I’m good. It’s going to be a great year. We’re going to the playoffs. We’re going, man.”
To get themselves turned around, they’ll have to protect Palmer and get the flamboyant Ochocinco to be more of a team player. During workouts Thursday, everyone wore black shorts or sweat pants except Ochocinco, who ran around in flashy orange shorts.
When he caught a pass down the sideline and went for a touchdown during an 11-on-11 drill, Ochocinco raised both arms in jubilation, let out a scream and did a hip bump with receiver Chris Henry.
Palmer didn’t mind the excess enthusiasm.
“I hope it lasts all the way through Super Bowl weekend,” Palmer said. “And I think he is sincere. He’s excited to be here. He’s excited to be back playing football at a high level, at the level he used to play at when he was leading the AFC in yards. He’s in way better shape than I’ve seen him in a couple of years.”
But Palmer drew a line at becoming a roommate.
Ochocinco told reporters last week that he’ll be moving in with Palmer, his wife and two young children for a week or two in July, giving them a chance to bond and catch up on missed time.
“He doesn’t really have a choice,” the receiver repeated on Thursday.
Oh, yes he does. When Palmer’s wife, Shaelyn, heard about Ochocinco’s plan, she wasn’t thrilled with her husband.
“I think she got an e-mail or something and as soon as I walked in the door from work the other day, she just gave me that look,” Palmer said. “And I was like, ‘Whoa, whoa, calm down. It’s just media stuff. It’s just Chad being Chad. Don’t worry.”’
Perfect. Just what the Cincinnati Bengals have been missing.
Their franchise quarterback, the one with the balky elbow, was back at the center of the offense Thursday, running the show during the first day of minicamp. He wore long, white sleeves and black sweat pants, keeping his California cool in the midday heat.
It looked and felt like old times.
“Carson, he’s sweet,” receiver Chad Ochocinco said. “He’s on top of his stuff. As far as the elbow (injury), it’s got to be gone because all of the balls had the normal zip. He’s on point.”
Not quite, but close. Certainly close enough for the Bengals to think that they have a chance to become respectable again.
Palmer missed a dozen games during Cincinnati’s 4-11-1 season last year. He partially tore a ligament and tendon from the bone in his passing elbow, and got conflicting medical advice on what to do about it. He could have gotten reconstructive surgery, but chose to see if it would heal on its own.
So far, it’s apparent he made the right choice. Palmer has been throwing informally and during voluntary team workouts, slowly building back his strength.
“It’s getting stronger in the sense that I can throw for longer,” Palmer said after the morning practice. “I have the same speed on the ball at the end of practice. I’m starting to get to the point now where the ball’s not dying at the end of practice.”
The Bengals are keeping Palmer on the equivalent of a pitch count, limiting the number of throws he makes in practice until the season begins. After his completion to Cosby in the afternoon session, Palmer removed his helmet, covered his head with a white towel and turned spectator.
Palmer’s return to form—and Ochocinco’s return to the fold—buoyed a team still smarting from its worst showing under seventh-year coach Marvin Lewis. Palmer got hurt in the third game last season, a loss to the Giants in which his arm was hit while he threw. He played one more game, sensed the elbow wasn’t right and went for tests that detected the season-ending injury.
While Palmer recovered, Ochocinco groused. He caught only 53 passes for 540 yards last season, after failing to force a trade. He skipped most of the voluntary workouts in the offseason, but showed up last week with a smile and an upbeat demeanor.
“I’m back,” Ochocinco said. “I can’t explain it any other way. Before last year, this is how I was. I was good. I was happy. I’m good. It’s going to be a great year. We’re going to the playoffs. We’re going, man.”
To get themselves turned around, they’ll have to protect Palmer and get the flamboyant Ochocinco to be more of a team player. During workouts Thursday, everyone wore black shorts or sweat pants except Ochocinco, who ran around in flashy orange shorts.
When he caught a pass down the sideline and went for a touchdown during an 11-on-11 drill, Ochocinco raised both arms in jubilation, let out a scream and did a hip bump with receiver Chris Henry.
Palmer didn’t mind the excess enthusiasm.
“I hope it lasts all the way through Super Bowl weekend,” Palmer said. “And I think he is sincere. He’s excited to be here. He’s excited to be back playing football at a high level, at the level he used to play at when he was leading the AFC in yards. He’s in way better shape than I’ve seen him in a couple of years.”
But Palmer drew a line at becoming a roommate.
Ochocinco told reporters last week that he’ll be moving in with Palmer, his wife and two young children for a week or two in July, giving them a chance to bond and catch up on missed time.
“He doesn’t really have a choice,” the receiver repeated on Thursday.
Oh, yes he does. When Palmer’s wife, Shaelyn, heard about Ochocinco’s plan, she wasn’t thrilled with her husband.
“I think she got an e-mail or something and as soon as I walked in the door from work the other day, she just gave me that look,” Palmer said. “And I was like, ‘Whoa, whoa, calm down. It’s just media stuff. It’s just Chad being Chad. Don’t worry.”’
More on Brandon Marshall
Holdout wide receiver Brandon Marshall(notes) reported to camp— his own.
The Denver Broncos Pro Bowl receiver who skipped the team’s mandatory minicamp last weekend in a contract dispute is holding a two-day youth football camp for 500 kids ages 7-18 at a local high school.
Marshall declined to answer questions about his status with the Broncos on Thursday, other than to say he and his agent are communicating with the team.
Asked if he thought this youth football camp was his grand goodbye to the community that’s embraced him, Marshall said basically that nothing good lasts forever.
“I think we saw this past year as far as change, as for changes in our front office. Coach Shanahan being here 13 years. Gone! I think that’s part of life. You know it’s just change,” Marshall said.
“You can control what you can control and what you can’t control you don’t worry about. So I’m here to show my wisdom, to give wisdom and get a feel for the kids.”
Marshall said he does plan to hold the camp again next summer in Denver but also in Pittsburgh, where he grew up, and Orlando, Fla., where he lives.
If he gets his way, Marshall’s camp in Colorado next summer will be as a visiting player.
“I want him to stay. We aren’t as good a team without him,” said 14-year-old camper Jaylen McDonald of Denver.
Marshall, who said he’s been working out at his alma mater, Central Florida, participated in some of the on-field work at his camp, which consisted strictly of no-contact drills.
Dressed in red sweats, Marshall jogged a lap with the kids and took part in some stretching before helping teach football skills to the enthusiastic boys and girls.
This week, Marshall posted a farewell to Denver fans on his blog even as coach Josh McDaniels was saying he looked forward to seeing Marshall at training camp next month. And Marshall’s agent, Kennard McGuire, said team owner Pat Bowlen had told his client that he would try to accommodate his trade request.
Bowlen hasn’t spoken publicly about the matter.
Marshall has precious little leverage, however, to force his way out of town like quarterback Jay Cutler(notes) did this spring when he got into a feud with McDaniels and was dealt to Chicago.
Marshall, who is set to make $2.2 million in 2009, faces legal and health issues that would seem to prevent him from cashing in with a huge contract anytime soon.
He’s coming off hip surgery and faces a trial this summer on misdemeanor battery charges; a conviction could lead to his second suspension from the NFL in just over a year.
Plus, with next season being an uncapped year, Marshall is set to be a restricted free agent in 2010 rather than an unrestricted free agent, after which the Broncos could slap the franchise tag on him to keep him in Denver for years to come.
Of course, they may decide it’s not worth it to force a disgruntled star to stick around.
Marshall is entering the final season of the four-year deal he signed as a fourth-round draft pick in 2006 and he could be quite a bargain for a player who’s had consecutive 100-catch seasons while playing more like a top-10 pick than a fourth-rounder.
Yet, nobody knows how he’ll bounce back from April 1 hip surgery or whether he’ll start the season on the suspended list again.
Marshall is prepping for a big year—wherever that may be.
“I feel great. I’m working out at Central Florida with the team, running routes, doing pass (drills). I’m not 100 percent. (But) I’m 10 times better than I was for the first game last year,” he said.
Despite putting up Pro Bowl numbers last season, Marshall had several crucial fumbles and also dropped an astonishing number of passes, something he blamed on the nerve damage in his right arm, which he said he put through a television set while horsing around with his brother in March 2008.
On Thursday, Marshall said the numbness in his arm was “just the nerve regenerating. I’m fine. I went through a whole year (with it). It’s almost there. The doctor said it should take a year or two and we’re right there.”
The Denver Broncos Pro Bowl receiver who skipped the team’s mandatory minicamp last weekend in a contract dispute is holding a two-day youth football camp for 500 kids ages 7-18 at a local high school.
Marshall declined to answer questions about his status with the Broncos on Thursday, other than to say he and his agent are communicating with the team.
Asked if he thought this youth football camp was his grand goodbye to the community that’s embraced him, Marshall said basically that nothing good lasts forever.
“I think we saw this past year as far as change, as for changes in our front office. Coach Shanahan being here 13 years. Gone! I think that’s part of life. You know it’s just change,” Marshall said.
“You can control what you can control and what you can’t control you don’t worry about. So I’m here to show my wisdom, to give wisdom and get a feel for the kids.”
Marshall said he does plan to hold the camp again next summer in Denver but also in Pittsburgh, where he grew up, and Orlando, Fla., where he lives.
If he gets his way, Marshall’s camp in Colorado next summer will be as a visiting player.
“I want him to stay. We aren’t as good a team without him,” said 14-year-old camper Jaylen McDonald of Denver.
Marshall, who said he’s been working out at his alma mater, Central Florida, participated in some of the on-field work at his camp, which consisted strictly of no-contact drills.
Dressed in red sweats, Marshall jogged a lap with the kids and took part in some stretching before helping teach football skills to the enthusiastic boys and girls.
This week, Marshall posted a farewell to Denver fans on his blog even as coach Josh McDaniels was saying he looked forward to seeing Marshall at training camp next month. And Marshall’s agent, Kennard McGuire, said team owner Pat Bowlen had told his client that he would try to accommodate his trade request.
Bowlen hasn’t spoken publicly about the matter.
Marshall has precious little leverage, however, to force his way out of town like quarterback Jay Cutler(notes) did this spring when he got into a feud with McDaniels and was dealt to Chicago.
Marshall, who is set to make $2.2 million in 2009, faces legal and health issues that would seem to prevent him from cashing in with a huge contract anytime soon.
He’s coming off hip surgery and faces a trial this summer on misdemeanor battery charges; a conviction could lead to his second suspension from the NFL in just over a year.
Plus, with next season being an uncapped year, Marshall is set to be a restricted free agent in 2010 rather than an unrestricted free agent, after which the Broncos could slap the franchise tag on him to keep him in Denver for years to come.
Of course, they may decide it’s not worth it to force a disgruntled star to stick around.
Marshall is entering the final season of the four-year deal he signed as a fourth-round draft pick in 2006 and he could be quite a bargain for a player who’s had consecutive 100-catch seasons while playing more like a top-10 pick than a fourth-rounder.
Yet, nobody knows how he’ll bounce back from April 1 hip surgery or whether he’ll start the season on the suspended list again.
Marshall is prepping for a big year—wherever that may be.
“I feel great. I’m working out at Central Florida with the team, running routes, doing pass (drills). I’m not 100 percent. (But) I’m 10 times better than I was for the first game last year,” he said.
Despite putting up Pro Bowl numbers last season, Marshall had several crucial fumbles and also dropped an astonishing number of passes, something he blamed on the nerve damage in his right arm, which he said he put through a television set while horsing around with his brother in March 2008.
On Thursday, Marshall said the numbness in his arm was “just the nerve regenerating. I’m fine. I went through a whole year (with it). It’s almost there. The doctor said it should take a year or two and we’re right there.”
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Mock Version #2
My Mock Version #2 (June 17th 2009) Top 50
1) Adrian Peterson
2) Michael Turner
3) LaDanian Tomlinson
4) Maurice Jones-Drew
5) Matt Forte
6) Frank Gore
7) Steven Jackson
8) Drew Brees
9) Larry Fitzgerald
10) DeAngelo Williams
11) Clinton Portis
12) Chris Johnson
13) Andre Johnson
14) Brandon Jacobs
15) Steve Slaton
16) Tom Brady
17) Marion Barber
18) Peyton Manning
19) Calvin Johnson
20) Brian Westbrook
21) Randy Moss
22) Steve Smith
23) Anquan Boldin
24) Philip Rivers
25) Reggie Wayne
26) Greg Jennings
27) Roddy White
28) Ronnie Brown
29) Terrell Owens
30) Joseph Addai
31) Kevin Smith
32) Ryan Grant
33) Marshawn Lynch
34) Aaron Rodgers
35) Braylon Edwards
36) Wes Welker
37) Roy Williams
38) Dwayne Bowe
39) Tony Romo
40) Kurt Warner
41) Marques Colston
42) Knowshon Moreno
43) Chris Wells
44) Brandon Marshall
45) Thomas Jones
46) Matt Ryan
47) Reggie Bush
48) Darren McFadden
49) Jay Cutler
50) Pierre Thomas
1) Adrian Peterson
2) Michael Turner
3) LaDanian Tomlinson
4) Maurice Jones-Drew
5) Matt Forte
6) Frank Gore
7) Steven Jackson
8) Drew Brees
9) Larry Fitzgerald
10) DeAngelo Williams
11) Clinton Portis
12) Chris Johnson
13) Andre Johnson
14) Brandon Jacobs
15) Steve Slaton
16) Tom Brady
17) Marion Barber
18) Peyton Manning
19) Calvin Johnson
20) Brian Westbrook
21) Randy Moss
22) Steve Smith
23) Anquan Boldin
24) Philip Rivers
25) Reggie Wayne
26) Greg Jennings
27) Roddy White
28) Ronnie Brown
29) Terrell Owens
30) Joseph Addai
31) Kevin Smith
32) Ryan Grant
33) Marshawn Lynch
34) Aaron Rodgers
35) Braylon Edwards
36) Wes Welker
37) Roy Williams
38) Dwayne Bowe
39) Tony Romo
40) Kurt Warner
41) Marques Colston
42) Knowshon Moreno
43) Chris Wells
44) Brandon Marshall
45) Thomas Jones
46) Matt Ryan
47) Reggie Bush
48) Darren McFadden
49) Jay Cutler
50) Pierre Thomas
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Brandon Marshall stock is dropping
The Denver Broncos said they are aware of a radio report that said holdout receiver Brandon Marshall asked team owner Pat Bowlen for a trade during a meeting Friday.
However, a team spokesman said Denver does not have any comment on the report. Adam Schefter, who will join ESPN in August, reported Monday on KOA in Denver that Marshall requested the trade during a meeting Friday. Marshall's agent, Kennard McGuire, did not return phone messages Monday.
Marshall skipped Denver's mandatory minicamp Friday-Sunday. He is protesting because he has medical trust issues and he wants a pay raise. Marshall's contract expires after next season. Marshall had hip surgery in March and he won't be able to practice until training camp starts late next month. Still, he was required to rehabilitate at the camp. Denver can fine him for missing the sessions.
Marshall is entering his fourth season and made his first Pro Bowl in 2008. He has had back-to-back 100-plus catch seasons.
The Marshall situation is another issue for new Denver coach Josh McDaniels. The former New England offensive coordinator took over for the fired Mike Shanahan after 14 years. McDaniels' tenure in Denver got off to a rocky start when Pro Bowl quarterback Jay Cutler was traded to Chicago. The saga began when Cutler caught wind that the new coach was considering trading him in a package for Matt Cassel, who starred for McDaniels in New England last season.
However, a team spokesman said Denver does not have any comment on the report. Adam Schefter, who will join ESPN in August, reported Monday on KOA in Denver that Marshall requested the trade during a meeting Friday. Marshall's agent, Kennard McGuire, did not return phone messages Monday.
Marshall skipped Denver's mandatory minicamp Friday-Sunday. He is protesting because he has medical trust issues and he wants a pay raise. Marshall's contract expires after next season. Marshall had hip surgery in March and he won't be able to practice until training camp starts late next month. Still, he was required to rehabilitate at the camp. Denver can fine him for missing the sessions.
Marshall is entering his fourth season and made his first Pro Bowl in 2008. He has had back-to-back 100-plus catch seasons.
The Marshall situation is another issue for new Denver coach Josh McDaniels. The former New England offensive coordinator took over for the fired Mike Shanahan after 14 years. McDaniels' tenure in Denver got off to a rocky start when Pro Bowl quarterback Jay Cutler was traded to Chicago. The saga began when Cutler caught wind that the new coach was considering trading him in a package for Matt Cassel, who starred for McDaniels in New England last season.
More Brett Favre news...is...isn't he?
Brett Favre will know in several weeks whether his surgically repaired arm will allow him to come out of retirement again.
The quarterback made his first public comments since retiring from the New York Jets in February in an interview Monday night on "Joe Buck Live." He said the only team he has spoken to is the Minnesota Vikings -- and that they would be a perfect fit because he's familiar with their offense.
The three-time NFL MVP said Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery 2½ weeks ago on his throwing arm. Andrews told him it would take 4-5 weeks to know if he'll be able to make all the throws he needs to.
"If it ever gets to the point where it feels like it did before it started hurting, then the biggest question mark is out of the way," Favre said.
Favre said Vikings coach Brad Childress wanted him to attend Minnesota's recent organized team activities, but he declined.
"I figured there would be a media frenzy if I was there," he said. "And there would be a media frenzy if I couldn't play, if we had to say three weeks later, 'You know, his arm's just not up to par. He can't play.'
"So why not have just one media frenzy, and that be later on?"
HBO said Favre agreed in April to appear on the show at the request of Buck, the longtime baseball and football announcer. That was before his release from the Jets, which prompted Minnesota's pursuit of the NFL's career leader in touchdown passes.
Asked by Buck if he would play this season, Favre replied, "Um ... " After a pause, he said, "Maybe."
"I know people are tired of it, really," Favre said earlier of the drama that accompanies his annual waffling over retirement. "My intentions are not to -- although it's good for you -- create controversy."
The Vikings were a presumed suitor last summer when Favre renounced his retirement from the Packers and was told Green Bay was going with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. But the Packers weren't going to let him go to their NFC North rivals, and after a messy divorce with Green Bay, Favre was shipped to the Jets.
He threw 22 touchdown passes and 22 interceptions last season. The team finished out 1-4 and missed the playoffs, as Favre was bothered by a torn biceps tendon.
The Vikings won their division without him, but have been unsettled at the sport's most important position for the past three-plus years. Quarterback continues to be viewed as one of the team's few weak spots on an otherwise talent-laden roster.
"It makes a lot of sense because the pieces are in place," Favre said.
He said he met with a Vikings trainer Sunday to go over some arm exercises as part of his rehab, but the team has not made plans to evaluate his readiness to play. Favre said his conversations with Vikings officials have been infrequent and limited.
"Nothing other than, 'Are you interested?'" he said. "And vice versa."
The quarterback made his first public comments since retiring from the New York Jets in February in an interview Monday night on "Joe Buck Live." He said the only team he has spoken to is the Minnesota Vikings -- and that they would be a perfect fit because he's familiar with their offense.
The three-time NFL MVP said Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery 2½ weeks ago on his throwing arm. Andrews told him it would take 4-5 weeks to know if he'll be able to make all the throws he needs to.
"If it ever gets to the point where it feels like it did before it started hurting, then the biggest question mark is out of the way," Favre said.
Favre said Vikings coach Brad Childress wanted him to attend Minnesota's recent organized team activities, but he declined.
"I figured there would be a media frenzy if I was there," he said. "And there would be a media frenzy if I couldn't play, if we had to say three weeks later, 'You know, his arm's just not up to par. He can't play.'
"So why not have just one media frenzy, and that be later on?"
HBO said Favre agreed in April to appear on the show at the request of Buck, the longtime baseball and football announcer. That was before his release from the Jets, which prompted Minnesota's pursuit of the NFL's career leader in touchdown passes.
Asked by Buck if he would play this season, Favre replied, "Um ... " After a pause, he said, "Maybe."
"I know people are tired of it, really," Favre said earlier of the drama that accompanies his annual waffling over retirement. "My intentions are not to -- although it's good for you -- create controversy."
The Vikings were a presumed suitor last summer when Favre renounced his retirement from the Packers and was told Green Bay was going with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. But the Packers weren't going to let him go to their NFC North rivals, and after a messy divorce with Green Bay, Favre was shipped to the Jets.
He threw 22 touchdown passes and 22 interceptions last season. The team finished out 1-4 and missed the playoffs, as Favre was bothered by a torn biceps tendon.
The Vikings won their division without him, but have been unsettled at the sport's most important position for the past three-plus years. Quarterback continues to be viewed as one of the team's few weak spots on an otherwise talent-laden roster.
"It makes a lot of sense because the pieces are in place," Favre said.
He said he met with a Vikings trainer Sunday to go over some arm exercises as part of his rehab, but the team has not made plans to evaluate his readiness to play. Favre said his conversations with Vikings officials have been infrequent and limited.
"Nothing other than, 'Are you interested?'" he said. "And vice versa."
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
My Mock Version #1
My Mock Version #1 (June 10th 2009) Top 50
1) Adrian Peterson
2) Michael Turner
3) Matt Forte
4) Drew Brees
5) LaDanian Tomlinson
6) Frank Gore
7) Chris Johnson
8) Maurice Jones-Drew
9) Clinton Portis
10) DeAngelo Williams
11) Larry Fitzgerald
12) Steven Jackson
13) Brandon Jacobs
14) Marion Barber
15) Steve Slaton
16) Tom Brady
17) Andre Johnson
18) Peyton Manning
19) Calvin Johnson
20) Brian Westbrook
21) Steve Smith
22) Randy Moss
23) Anquan Boldin
24) Philip Rivers
25) Reggie Wayne
26) Aaron Rodgers
27) Greg Jennings
28) Roddy White
29) Ronnie Brown
30) Terrell Owens
31) Kevin Smith
32) Joseph Addai
33) Ryan Grant
34) Marshawn Lynch
35) Braylon Edwards
36) Wes Welker
37) Pierre Thomas
38) Dwayne Bowe
39) Tony Romo
40) Kurt Warner
41) Marques Colston
42) Knowshon Moreno
43) Chris Wells
44) Brandon Marshall
45) Thomas Jones
46) Matt Ryan
47) Reggie Bush
48) Darren McFadden
49) Jay Cutler
50) Roy Williams
1) Adrian Peterson
2) Michael Turner
3) Matt Forte
4) Drew Brees
5) LaDanian Tomlinson
6) Frank Gore
7) Chris Johnson
8) Maurice Jones-Drew
9) Clinton Portis
10) DeAngelo Williams
11) Larry Fitzgerald
12) Steven Jackson
13) Brandon Jacobs
14) Marion Barber
15) Steve Slaton
16) Tom Brady
17) Andre Johnson
18) Peyton Manning
19) Calvin Johnson
20) Brian Westbrook
21) Steve Smith
22) Randy Moss
23) Anquan Boldin
24) Philip Rivers
25) Reggie Wayne
26) Aaron Rodgers
27) Greg Jennings
28) Roddy White
29) Ronnie Brown
30) Terrell Owens
31) Kevin Smith
32) Joseph Addai
33) Ryan Grant
34) Marshawn Lynch
35) Braylon Edwards
36) Wes Welker
37) Pierre Thomas
38) Dwayne Bowe
39) Tony Romo
40) Kurt Warner
41) Marques Colston
42) Knowshon Moreno
43) Chris Wells
44) Brandon Marshall
45) Thomas Jones
46) Matt Ryan
47) Reggie Bush
48) Darren McFadden
49) Jay Cutler
50) Roy Williams
Monday, June 8, 2009
Minnesota Vikings coach Brad Childress has imposed a deadline of this week for Brett Favre to decide whether he will be the team's quarterback for the upcoming season, according to two sources.
Favre, however, is apparently reluctant to commit to playing a 19th NFL season without first being more confident the arthroscopic surgery performed recently on his throwing shoulder has succeeded in eliminating all of the problems related to a torn biceps tendon.
It would seem reasonable that both Favre and the Vikings want to know his shoulder is healthy before reaching an agreement, and the team is virtually certain to insist on seeing the 39-year-old quarterback throw before any contract is signed. Minnesota has four organized team activity sessions this week, beginning Tuesday.
While sources say Favre has done some throwing since the surgery, they describe him as being unconvinced that his passing arm is game-ready. Favre has always been unpredictable when making major career decisions, so only he would know what he will do if he believes the Vikings are forcing him to make a decision before he is fully prepared. Favre has claimed he did that two years ago in retiring from the Green Bay Packers even though he had doubts at the time, and he made a decision to leave the game that he began to regret even as he was announcing it.
According to sources, Favre is conflicted between his desire to provide the Vikings with the quarterback he believes is the only thing they lack to be a legitimate Super Bowl contender and his resolve to feel confident enough in his shoulder that it will not undermine his performance, which eroded under a league-high nine interceptions the final month of last season when the Jets faded from playoff contention. Favre took personal responsibility for the Jets' failure, blaming his painful shoulder for creating a random lack of arm strength and throwing accuracy.
The Vikings are the Packers' rivals in the NFC North, and the team that Favre wanted to play for last season after deciding to come out of retirement. But the Packers controlled Favre's rights, and general manager Ted Thompson refused to consider trading Favre to Minnesota. Not only that, but Thompson was so determined to ensure the Green Bay icon could not play for the Packers' hated rival twice a year that he included a clause in the trade agreement with the Jets that the Packers would be compensated with three first-round draft choices if Favre were dealt to the Vikings.
But Favre effectively circumvented that when he retired in February for a second time and later received his unconditional release from the Jets after they traded up to select USC quarterback Mark Sanchez in the first round of the draft in April. That created the opportunity for Favre and the Vikings to discuss a partnership that could damage the quarterback's legacy in Green Bay.
Favre, however, is apparently reluctant to commit to playing a 19th NFL season without first being more confident the arthroscopic surgery performed recently on his throwing shoulder has succeeded in eliminating all of the problems related to a torn biceps tendon.
It would seem reasonable that both Favre and the Vikings want to know his shoulder is healthy before reaching an agreement, and the team is virtually certain to insist on seeing the 39-year-old quarterback throw before any contract is signed. Minnesota has four organized team activity sessions this week, beginning Tuesday.
While sources say Favre has done some throwing since the surgery, they describe him as being unconvinced that his passing arm is game-ready. Favre has always been unpredictable when making major career decisions, so only he would know what he will do if he believes the Vikings are forcing him to make a decision before he is fully prepared. Favre has claimed he did that two years ago in retiring from the Green Bay Packers even though he had doubts at the time, and he made a decision to leave the game that he began to regret even as he was announcing it.
According to sources, Favre is conflicted between his desire to provide the Vikings with the quarterback he believes is the only thing they lack to be a legitimate Super Bowl contender and his resolve to feel confident enough in his shoulder that it will not undermine his performance, which eroded under a league-high nine interceptions the final month of last season when the Jets faded from playoff contention. Favre took personal responsibility for the Jets' failure, blaming his painful shoulder for creating a random lack of arm strength and throwing accuracy.
The Vikings are the Packers' rivals in the NFC North, and the team that Favre wanted to play for last season after deciding to come out of retirement. But the Packers controlled Favre's rights, and general manager Ted Thompson refused to consider trading Favre to Minnesota. Not only that, but Thompson was so determined to ensure the Green Bay icon could not play for the Packers' hated rival twice a year that he included a clause in the trade agreement with the Jets that the Packers would be compensated with three first-round draft choices if Favre were dealt to the Vikings.
But Favre effectively circumvented that when he retired in February for a second time and later received his unconditional release from the Jets after they traded up to select USC quarterback Mark Sanchez in the first round of the draft in April. That created the opportunity for Favre and the Vikings to discuss a partnership that could damage the quarterback's legacy in Green Bay.
Friday, June 5, 2009
My Top 10 QB predictions for this coming season!
I have been in the fantasy football mood since Yahoo released their leagues yesterday. I think I will post my top 10 fantasy players for the upcoming season. I am going to rank the top 10 quarterback, running back, and receivers according to my draft strategy and reasoning.
QB
1) Peyton Manning
a. Easily the most consistent QB of our generation. I think he will have his average 3800+ yds and 25+ TD. That is hard to bet against in any given year.
2) Drew Brees
a. I have a hard time believing he will match last year’s stats. With that said he is still a fantasy given at the top of this list.
3) Philip Rivers
a. He has been on the brink of breaking through for a couple years and I think this year is it. Fantasy wise, the Chargers are going to bounce back this year.
4) Aaron Rodgers
a. He was in the top 10 in any league last year. This is his second year at the helm and he will become top 5 I guarantee this!
5) Tom Brady
a. He will have another Brady year, but it will not be top tier this season. I think next season he is back in the top 3.
6) Tony Romo
a. He ,like Brees, is a typical fantasy QB. He puts up the ball whether it is a touchdown or INT he throws it.
7) Jay Cutler
a. He is going to prove he is the top tier QB that he is. I think he is mad the Denver saga looked as if they didn’t want him. He is hungry!
8) Matt Ryan
a. He is the real deal. Atlanta got better in its passing game by acquiring Tony Gonzalez and that will help Ryan very much.
9) Carson Palmer
a. He will bounce back to the top QB he was a couple years back. Bringing in Coles should help with the loss of TJH. I think Palmer is a prototypical QB.
10) Kurt Warner
a. He is also a passer, no matter what the defense gives him, a pass can be thrown.
QB
1) Peyton Manning
a. Easily the most consistent QB of our generation. I think he will have his average 3800+ yds and 25+ TD. That is hard to bet against in any given year.
2) Drew Brees
a. I have a hard time believing he will match last year’s stats. With that said he is still a fantasy given at the top of this list.
3) Philip Rivers
a. He has been on the brink of breaking through for a couple years and I think this year is it. Fantasy wise, the Chargers are going to bounce back this year.
4) Aaron Rodgers
a. He was in the top 10 in any league last year. This is his second year at the helm and he will become top 5 I guarantee this!
5) Tom Brady
a. He will have another Brady year, but it will not be top tier this season. I think next season he is back in the top 3.
6) Tony Romo
a. He ,like Brees, is a typical fantasy QB. He puts up the ball whether it is a touchdown or INT he throws it.
7) Jay Cutler
a. He is going to prove he is the top tier QB that he is. I think he is mad the Denver saga looked as if they didn’t want him. He is hungry!
8) Matt Ryan
a. He is the real deal. Atlanta got better in its passing game by acquiring Tony Gonzalez and that will help Ryan very much.
9) Carson Palmer
a. He will bounce back to the top QB he was a couple years back. Bringing in Coles should help with the loss of TJH. I think Palmer is a prototypical QB.
10) Kurt Warner
a. He is also a passer, no matter what the defense gives him, a pass can be thrown.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
QB merry-go-round
Browns coach Eric Mangini says he will not decide on Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson as Cleveland's starting quarterback until late in the preseason.
Mangini said before Thursday's voluntary practice that he will take his time evaluating the two quarterbacks and wants to see how they play in preseason games before making his choice.
Anderson was a Pro Bowl selection in 2007, but lost his job midway through last season to Quinn, the former Notre Dame star and first-round draft pick. Both Quinn (finger) and Anderson (knee) suffered season-ending injuries last season, when the Browns offense failed to score a touchdown in the club's final six games. Cleveland finished 4-12 and replaced coach Romeo Crennel with Mangini.
Mangini said before Thursday's voluntary practice that he will take his time evaluating the two quarterbacks and wants to see how they play in preseason games before making his choice.
Anderson was a Pro Bowl selection in 2007, but lost his job midway through last season to Quinn, the former Notre Dame star and first-round draft pick. Both Quinn (finger) and Anderson (knee) suffered season-ending injuries last season, when the Browns offense failed to score a touchdown in the club's final six games. Cleveland finished 4-12 and replaced coach Romeo Crennel with Mangini.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Cowboys release pro bowl LB
The Dallas Cowboys, perhaps wanting to avoid any more offseason turmoil with veteran Greg Ellis, released the Pro Bowl linebacker Tuesday.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had acknowledged last week that the 12th-year pro, who has a recent history of complaining about his role, his contract, or both, likely would be playing elsewhere this fall.
But the writing already was on the wall by April's NFL draft, when the Cowboys focused on players who could help them on the pass rush, and Ellis, 33, did not participate in the team's May 21 organized team activities session.
By releasing him, the Cowboys save the $4.15 million he was scheduled to make in 2009. But they're also losing a team leader, and Ellis is the players' union team representative.
Ellis, the Cowboys' first-round pick in 1998, played in 162 games -- all with Dallas -- and started 156 of them.
Ellis complained in 2006 about moving from defensive end to linebacker, saying the Cowboys and former coach Bill Parcells were setting him up to fail in the new 3-4 defensive alignment.
After that turned out OK, Ellis squawked again a year later when the Cowboys drafted Anthony Spencer, another college defensive end they planned to move to outside linebacker.
Back then, Ellis said he was sure they were trying to replace him and demanded a new contract that showed the team's commitment. He got the new deal in 2007 and responded with his best season, a Pro Bowl year with a career-high 12½ sacks despite missing the first three games recovering from a torn Achilles tendon. He was named the NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2007.
Ellis finished his Cowboys career with 634 tackles, 36 tackles for losses, 197 quarterback pressures and 77 sacks.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had acknowledged last week that the 12th-year pro, who has a recent history of complaining about his role, his contract, or both, likely would be playing elsewhere this fall.
But the writing already was on the wall by April's NFL draft, when the Cowboys focused on players who could help them on the pass rush, and Ellis, 33, did not participate in the team's May 21 organized team activities session.
By releasing him, the Cowboys save the $4.15 million he was scheduled to make in 2009. But they're also losing a team leader, and Ellis is the players' union team representative.
Ellis, the Cowboys' first-round pick in 1998, played in 162 games -- all with Dallas -- and started 156 of them.
Ellis complained in 2006 about moving from defensive end to linebacker, saying the Cowboys and former coach Bill Parcells were setting him up to fail in the new 3-4 defensive alignment.
After that turned out OK, Ellis squawked again a year later when the Cowboys drafted Anthony Spencer, another college defensive end they planned to move to outside linebacker.
Back then, Ellis said he was sure they were trying to replace him and demanded a new contract that showed the team's commitment. He got the new deal in 2007 and responded with his best season, a Pro Bowl year with a career-high 12½ sacks despite missing the first three games recovering from a torn Achilles tendon. He was named the NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2007.
Ellis finished his Cowboys career with 634 tackles, 36 tackles for losses, 197 quarterback pressures and 77 sacks.
Anquan Boldin still may move teams before preseason
Arizona Cardinals general manager Rod Graves says he looks forward to working with Anquan Boldin's new agent, Tom Condon.
Condon has not confirmed multiple reports he was hired by Boldin, but Graves ended any doubt with his comments after the Cardinals practiced on Monday.
"I look forward to working with him on this deal whenever we can get the opportunity to concentrate on it," Graves said.
Graves said he's already had contact with Condon.
"I anticipate a meeting with him sometime later this month," Graves said.
Condon, who represents such NFL stars as Peyton and Eli Manning and Marvin Harrison, did not return messages left at his office and on his cell phone. Condon's clients also include Cardinals backup quarterback Matt Leinart.
Boldin, embroiled in a long contract fight with the Cardinals, fired Drew Rosenhaus. The wide receiver has had a number of representatives since being drafted out of Florida State in 2003. Boldin sat out minicamp last month, citing a sore hamstring. He has been a no-show in the subsequent voluntary workouts.
Graves said the Cardinals are working on new contracts for safety Adrian Wilson and linebacker Karlos Dansby before turning their attention to Boldin.
Asked if there would be enough money under the salary cap to sign Boldin this year, Graves said, "It will have some challenges. There's certainly cause for some give and take and creativity on both sides, but Tom's been noted for that. Again, I just look forward to sitting with him and we'll find out where we are at that point."
Will Boldin's switch to Condon make it easier to reach an agreement?
"I don't know, we'll see," Graves said. "I look forward to talking with him. We've had a history of being able to get deals done with Tom Condon."
Boldin, who has made the Pro Bowl three of his six NFL seasons, has two years left on his contract but says the Cardinals lied to him when they failed to follow through on what he says was a promise for a new contract a year ago. Through Rosenhaus, Boldin asked to be traded, but the Cardinals say they won't make any deal without getting sufficient compensation and prefer to re-sign him.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals got a scare when their other Pro Bowl receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, landed awkwardly while stretching to make a catch in Monday's practice, hurting his groin. After a few moments, he got up and rejoined the practice.
He walked past reporters as he left the field, saying he needed to get treatment.
"It was a little something," Fitzgerald said. "I'll be OK."
Condon has not confirmed multiple reports he was hired by Boldin, but Graves ended any doubt with his comments after the Cardinals practiced on Monday.
"I look forward to working with him on this deal whenever we can get the opportunity to concentrate on it," Graves said.
Graves said he's already had contact with Condon.
"I anticipate a meeting with him sometime later this month," Graves said.
Condon, who represents such NFL stars as Peyton and Eli Manning and Marvin Harrison, did not return messages left at his office and on his cell phone. Condon's clients also include Cardinals backup quarterback Matt Leinart.
Boldin, embroiled in a long contract fight with the Cardinals, fired Drew Rosenhaus. The wide receiver has had a number of representatives since being drafted out of Florida State in 2003. Boldin sat out minicamp last month, citing a sore hamstring. He has been a no-show in the subsequent voluntary workouts.
Graves said the Cardinals are working on new contracts for safety Adrian Wilson and linebacker Karlos Dansby before turning their attention to Boldin.
Asked if there would be enough money under the salary cap to sign Boldin this year, Graves said, "It will have some challenges. There's certainly cause for some give and take and creativity on both sides, but Tom's been noted for that. Again, I just look forward to sitting with him and we'll find out where we are at that point."
Will Boldin's switch to Condon make it easier to reach an agreement?
"I don't know, we'll see," Graves said. "I look forward to talking with him. We've had a history of being able to get deals done with Tom Condon."
Boldin, who has made the Pro Bowl three of his six NFL seasons, has two years left on his contract but says the Cardinals lied to him when they failed to follow through on what he says was a promise for a new contract a year ago. Through Rosenhaus, Boldin asked to be traded, but the Cardinals say they won't make any deal without getting sufficient compensation and prefer to re-sign him.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals got a scare when their other Pro Bowl receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, landed awkwardly while stretching to make a catch in Monday's practice, hurting his groin. After a few moments, he got up and rejoined the practice.
He walked past reporters as he left the field, saying he needed to get treatment.
"It was a little something," Fitzgerald said. "I'll be OK."
Vince Young : Play me or else!
Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young isn't saying "play me or trade me," but he's coming pretty close.
In an interview with Baltimore's WMAR-TV, Young said if he doesn't win back his starting job, he wants to move on. The problem is that Kerry Collins is still the starter.
"I definitely want to get back out there playing ball and picking up where I left off, winning games and having a good time with my teammates and with the fans," Young said, according to the television station. "At the same time, if them guys don't want me to be in there, it's time for me to make a career change for myself. Because the fact is I'm ready to play ball. If they're not ready for me to play ball, then somebody is."
The former rookie of the year suffered a knee injury in the first game of the season last year. Veteran Kerry Collins stepped in and was the starter for the remainder of the year, leading the Titans to a 13-3 record and the playoffs.
Young's season was further marred by an incident after that first game against Jacksonville in which the quarterback was reported missing. He was later found and there was some question as to his state of mind.
This offseason, Titans coach Jeff Fisher said that Young would have to unseat Collins as the starter.
"I'm still focused, staying focused," Young said, according to WMAR. "I got a lot of people that look up to me. I got a lot of fans that love me and want to see me back out on the football field."
In an interview with Baltimore's WMAR-TV, Young said if he doesn't win back his starting job, he wants to move on. The problem is that Kerry Collins is still the starter.
"I definitely want to get back out there playing ball and picking up where I left off, winning games and having a good time with my teammates and with the fans," Young said, according to the television station. "At the same time, if them guys don't want me to be in there, it's time for me to make a career change for myself. Because the fact is I'm ready to play ball. If they're not ready for me to play ball, then somebody is."
The former rookie of the year suffered a knee injury in the first game of the season last year. Veteran Kerry Collins stepped in and was the starter for the remainder of the year, leading the Titans to a 13-3 record and the playoffs.
Young's season was further marred by an incident after that first game against Jacksonville in which the quarterback was reported missing. He was later found and there was some question as to his state of mind.
This offseason, Titans coach Jeff Fisher said that Young would have to unseat Collins as the starter.
"I'm still focused, staying focused," Young said, according to WMAR. "I got a lot of people that look up to me. I got a lot of fans that love me and want to see me back out on the football field."
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Tom Brady is on the field!
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is back on the field and throwing the football.
Brady, 31, took part in the team's practice on Thursday, stretching and tossing the ball around in a light rain. It's the third and final day of the Patriots' organized team activities, and the only one open to the media. The team held voluntary workouts last week for younger players and free agents. Brady and nearly the entire team have participated in this week's practices.
Brady, a two-time Super Bowl MVP, suffered a season-ending knee injury in the 2008 season opener. He had surgery in October and later had another procedure to treat an infection in the knee. He is expected to be ready to play this season.
Brady, 31, took part in the team's practice on Thursday, stretching and tossing the ball around in a light rain. It's the third and final day of the Patriots' organized team activities, and the only one open to the media. The team held voluntary workouts last week for younger players and free agents. Brady and nearly the entire team have participated in this week's practices.
Brady, a two-time Super Bowl MVP, suffered a season-ending knee injury in the 2008 season opener. He had surgery in October and later had another procedure to treat an infection in the knee. He is expected to be ready to play this season.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Best Available Players unsigned....
With the annual case of Favre Fixation occupying the minds of many throughout the NFL, it’s worth noting that many high-profile players who could help teams are still out of work. Call it the All-Available Team.
From Favre to linebacker Derrick Brooks(notes) to wide receiver Plaxico Burress(notes), there are a number of prominent players available who could provide a helping hand in 2009. There’s enough to even make up an entire team that would have been better than what the Detroit Lions trotted out last season on the way to 0-16.
“This is the time of the year when everybody has a chance to really sit back and study their team and figure out what’s that one missing piece or try to patch up a position that you just don’t like,” San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said. “It really depends on what you’re looking for.
“You can name guys right off the top of your head who can help a team: … Edgerrin James(notes), Derrick Brooks, Brett Favre(notes), Jon Runyan(notes). But so much of it is about how a guy fits in your system. Are you looking for a good, solid backup or are you desperate and you’re looking for a stop-gap guy to get you through a season?”
From now until the beginning of training camp in late July, that’s a question that almost every team in the NFL will be evaluating. Those teams will pore over their depth charts and evaluate the rookies who looked so good on the draft board in April, but then looked pretty lost when they got to minicamp in May and June.
“For a lot of teams, once you get past the draft and you really start thinking about going into the season, you ask yourself, ‘Am I really confident going into next season with this rookie playing or do I want a veteran?’ Smith said. “That’s the really hard question that GMs and coaches have to ask themselves.”
With that in mind, here’s a look at the top players, by position, who are still on the market:
Offense
QB: Brett Favre – America’s favorite vagabond passer continues his mid-life crisis. Other options: Rex Grossman(notes) and J.P. Losman(notes).
RB: Edgerrin James – His once-great burst is gone, but he’s still workmanlike. Other options: Warrick Dunn(notes), Deuce McAllister(notes) and Rudi Johnson(notes).
FB: Cecil Sapp(notes) – Better athlete than most fullbacks, but still nothing special.
TE: Ben Troupe(notes) – Best from a mediocre offering. Other options: Mark Campbell(notes) and Dan Campbell(notes).
No. 1 WR: Plaxico Burress – Legal issues are holding him up, but he’ll play.
No. 2 WR: Amani Toomer(notes) – Only 16 months ago, Toomer and Burress helped win a Super Bowl. Other options: Marvin Harrison(notes), Drew Bennett(notes) and Joe Jurevicius(notes).
LT: Levi Jones(notes) – Injuries curtailed a nice career, but he’s still only 29.
LG: Mark Tauscher(notes) – He’s a tackle, but could easily switch inside.
C: Jeremy Newberry(notes) – His knees are bad, but they have been forever.
RG: Pete Kendall(notes) – Smart, tough, but a lot of mileage.
RT: Jon Runyan – Biggest if of an iffy group. His knee still isn’t healthy. Other O-line options: Fred Miller(notes), Jonas Jennings(notes), Wayne Gandy(notes), Melvin Fowler(notes) and Jason Whittle(notes).
Defense
DE: Kalimba Edwards(notes) – He’s 33 and banged up, but still has some pass-rush skill.
DE: Ebenezer Ekuban(notes) – Pretty nice pass rusher still out there on the market.
DT: Kevin Carter(notes) – Amazing longevity, productivity and versatility.
DT: Ellis Wyms(notes) – Has his limitations, but is a very tough player.Other D-line options: Dewayne Robertson(notes), John Engelberger(notes) and La’Roi Glover(notes).
LB: Morlon Greenwood(notes) – At 31, he’s one of the youngest starters.
LB: Pisa Tinoisamoa(notes) – A tackle machine, but he better play in a two-gap system.
LB: Derrick Brooks – Still can bring great leadership to a young defense. Other options: Napoleon Harris(notes), Paris Lenon(notes), Antwan Peek(notes) and Nate Webster(notes).
CB: Chris McAlister(notes) – Coming off injury and has lost speed, but still very physical.
CB: Ty Law(notes) – Perennial late-signee can still make a couple of plays if the offense isn’t careful. Other options: Jason Craft(notes), Dre Bly, Deltha O’Neal(notes) and Roderick Hood(notes).
SS: Lawyer Milloy(notes) – Years of physical play have taken their toll, but he’s really smart.
FS: Dexter Jackson – Has lost a step, but who on this team hasn’t? Other safety options: Mike Brown(notes), Michael Boulware(notes), Kevin Kaesviharn(notes) and Will Demps(notes).
From Favre to linebacker Derrick Brooks(notes) to wide receiver Plaxico Burress(notes), there are a number of prominent players available who could provide a helping hand in 2009. There’s enough to even make up an entire team that would have been better than what the Detroit Lions trotted out last season on the way to 0-16.
“This is the time of the year when everybody has a chance to really sit back and study their team and figure out what’s that one missing piece or try to patch up a position that you just don’t like,” San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said. “It really depends on what you’re looking for.
“You can name guys right off the top of your head who can help a team: … Edgerrin James(notes), Derrick Brooks, Brett Favre(notes), Jon Runyan(notes). But so much of it is about how a guy fits in your system. Are you looking for a good, solid backup or are you desperate and you’re looking for a stop-gap guy to get you through a season?”
From now until the beginning of training camp in late July, that’s a question that almost every team in the NFL will be evaluating. Those teams will pore over their depth charts and evaluate the rookies who looked so good on the draft board in April, but then looked pretty lost when they got to minicamp in May and June.
“For a lot of teams, once you get past the draft and you really start thinking about going into the season, you ask yourself, ‘Am I really confident going into next season with this rookie playing or do I want a veteran?’ Smith said. “That’s the really hard question that GMs and coaches have to ask themselves.”
With that in mind, here’s a look at the top players, by position, who are still on the market:
Offense
QB: Brett Favre – America’s favorite vagabond passer continues his mid-life crisis. Other options: Rex Grossman(notes) and J.P. Losman(notes).
RB: Edgerrin James – His once-great burst is gone, but he’s still workmanlike. Other options: Warrick Dunn(notes), Deuce McAllister(notes) and Rudi Johnson(notes).
FB: Cecil Sapp(notes) – Better athlete than most fullbacks, but still nothing special.
TE: Ben Troupe(notes) – Best from a mediocre offering. Other options: Mark Campbell(notes) and Dan Campbell(notes).
No. 1 WR: Plaxico Burress – Legal issues are holding him up, but he’ll play.
No. 2 WR: Amani Toomer(notes) – Only 16 months ago, Toomer and Burress helped win a Super Bowl. Other options: Marvin Harrison(notes), Drew Bennett(notes) and Joe Jurevicius(notes).
LT: Levi Jones(notes) – Injuries curtailed a nice career, but he’s still only 29.
LG: Mark Tauscher(notes) – He’s a tackle, but could easily switch inside.
C: Jeremy Newberry(notes) – His knees are bad, but they have been forever.
RG: Pete Kendall(notes) – Smart, tough, but a lot of mileage.
RT: Jon Runyan – Biggest if of an iffy group. His knee still isn’t healthy. Other O-line options: Fred Miller(notes), Jonas Jennings(notes), Wayne Gandy(notes), Melvin Fowler(notes) and Jason Whittle(notes).
Defense
DE: Kalimba Edwards(notes) – He’s 33 and banged up, but still has some pass-rush skill.
DE: Ebenezer Ekuban(notes) – Pretty nice pass rusher still out there on the market.
DT: Kevin Carter(notes) – Amazing longevity, productivity and versatility.
DT: Ellis Wyms(notes) – Has his limitations, but is a very tough player.Other D-line options: Dewayne Robertson(notes), John Engelberger(notes) and La’Roi Glover(notes).
LB: Morlon Greenwood(notes) – At 31, he’s one of the youngest starters.
LB: Pisa Tinoisamoa(notes) – A tackle machine, but he better play in a two-gap system.
LB: Derrick Brooks – Still can bring great leadership to a young defense. Other options: Napoleon Harris(notes), Paris Lenon(notes), Antwan Peek(notes) and Nate Webster(notes).
CB: Chris McAlister(notes) – Coming off injury and has lost speed, but still very physical.
CB: Ty Law(notes) – Perennial late-signee can still make a couple of plays if the offense isn’t careful. Other options: Jason Craft(notes), Dre Bly, Deltha O’Neal(notes) and Roderick Hood(notes).
SS: Lawyer Milloy(notes) – Years of physical play have taken their toll, but he’s really smart.
FS: Dexter Jackson – Has lost a step, but who on this team hasn’t? Other safety options: Mike Brown(notes), Michael Boulware(notes), Kevin Kaesviharn(notes) and Will Demps(notes).
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
NY Jets have some RB issues that need addressed!
Two of the New York Jets' top running backs -- Leon Washington and Thomas Jones -- are reportedly unhappy with their contracts and are skipping offseason workouts.
That's bad news for Jets rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez, the team's top draft pick who will need a strong running game if he starts from day one.
Washington, the Jets' dynamic running back/kick returner, skipped the first day of the Jets' organized team activities Monday amid reports he's unhappy with his current contract, which has a base salary of $535,000.
Jones, 30, the team's No. 1 running back, has been a no-show for all of the team's workouts this offseason. Jones is scheduled to make $900,000 in 2009, the third season of a four-year, $20 million contract he agreed to when he was acquired from the Bears in 2007. He made $13.1 million in the first two seasons of his contract.
Washington, 26, is entering the final season of his initial rookie contract. He reportedly is seeking a new contract that averages $6 million per season. The Jets have been negotiating a new contract with Washington this offseason, but according to The Star-Ledger of Newark, N.J., those talks hit a snag. A source told the newspaper that the team's initial offer to Washington was "insulting."
Washington led the NFL with 2,337 all-purpose yards in 2008 and scored nine touchdowns. Jones also enjoyed a standout 2008 season, rushing for 1,312 yards and 13 touchdowns. The Jets also drafted another running back, Shonn Greene, with the first pick of the third round -- trading three draft picks to move up 11 spots to select him.
All of the Jets' workouts so far have been voluntary. Their first mandatory minicamp is scheduled for June 9-11.
That's bad news for Jets rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez, the team's top draft pick who will need a strong running game if he starts from day one.
Washington, the Jets' dynamic running back/kick returner, skipped the first day of the Jets' organized team activities Monday amid reports he's unhappy with his current contract, which has a base salary of $535,000.
Jones, 30, the team's No. 1 running back, has been a no-show for all of the team's workouts this offseason. Jones is scheduled to make $900,000 in 2009, the third season of a four-year, $20 million contract he agreed to when he was acquired from the Bears in 2007. He made $13.1 million in the first two seasons of his contract.
Washington, 26, is entering the final season of his initial rookie contract. He reportedly is seeking a new contract that averages $6 million per season. The Jets have been negotiating a new contract with Washington this offseason, but according to The Star-Ledger of Newark, N.J., those talks hit a snag. A source told the newspaper that the team's initial offer to Washington was "insulting."
Washington led the NFL with 2,337 all-purpose yards in 2008 and scored nine touchdowns. Jones also enjoyed a standout 2008 season, rushing for 1,312 yards and 13 touchdowns. The Jets also drafted another running back, Shonn Greene, with the first pick of the third round -- trading three draft picks to move up 11 spots to select him.
All of the Jets' workouts so far have been voluntary. Their first mandatory minicamp is scheduled for June 9-11.
Monday, May 11, 2009
6 NFL teams that might not make the playoffs this year!
When picking the teams that will make the playoffs in a given year, the so-called experts (as opposed to the so-called idiots, of which I proudly am one) typically play it safe.
They look at the dozen franchises that made it a year ago, and they replace maybe the bottom team in each conference's playoff field with a team that was close to qualifying.
But the reality is that, typically, half of the teams that played in the postseason last year won't be back the next time around.
In 2008, more than half of the 2007 playoff teams didn't return for an encore.
Seven of the 12 franchises didn't qualify again. In the AFC, only two of the six from the year before were bounced; in the NFC, the turnover rate was 83.3 percent as five of the six teams that qualified in 2007 were left holding a big bag of nothing in '08.
For present purposes, we'll assume that six of the teams will make it back and six won't.
Today's challenge? Identifying the six teams that will play only 16 games that count this season.
1. Miami Dolphins
No one saw the Dolphins coming in 2008. This year, everyone does.
Their reward for winning the AFC East last year includes a first-place schedule, which features games against the Steelers and the Chargers, and games against every team in the AFC South and NFC South.
Oh, and two against the Patriots.
Last year, New England racked up 48 points against the Fins in Miami. With Matt Cassel(notes) at quarterback. With Tom Brady(notes) back, the Pats could score 70.
The '08 Dolphins also benefited from the absence of injuries. This season, chances are the Dolphins will be dealing with many more major and minor sprains and strains and snaps and cracks. And a harder schedule. And an improved Patriots team. And a bigger target on their backs.
So, yeah, it might be too much to expect the Dolphins to match last year's unlikely feat.
2. Tennessee Titans
Last year, the Titans' season started with a thud. Sure, they beat the Jaguars. But quarterback Vince Young(notes) suffered a sprained knee and a fractured ego.
Enter Kerry Collins(notes), who did just enough to complement a great defense and a strong running game to propel the Titans to the best regular-season record in the league.
This year, however, the guy who made that defense go—defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth(notes)—is long gone.
And Kerry Collins is still the starter.
And the receivers really aren't all that much better.
And defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz is coaching the Lions.
And the up-and-down Jaguars are due to be up again.
And the Texans seem poised to finally make the playoffs.
Odd men out? Yep, the Titans.
3. San Diego Chargers
Last year, the San Diego Chargers needed a miracle to capture the watered-down AFC West and make it to the playoffs.
This year, lightning might not strike again.
On paper, the Chargers have the talent. But questions persist regarding whether Norv Turner is the right man for this or any NFL head-coaching job.
So even with Philip Rivers(notes), LaDainian Tomlinson(notes), Darren Sproles(notes) and a healthy Shawne Merriman(notes) and a healthy Jyles Tucker(notes) and a rookie first-rounder who does the same thing that both of them do, it might not be enough to make it four straight division titles in a wide-open AFC West featuring teams in Kansas City and Oakland that might be more dangerous than expected. (We can forget about the Broncos.)
4. New York Giants
I know, I know. I said last year that the Giants wouldn't follow their Super Bowl title with another playoff appearance.
So maybe, if I say it again, the odds will be in my favor.
This time around, my confidence is bolstered by the fact that the Giants can't consistently move the ball without a high-end wideout like Plaxico Burress(notes). Apart from what he does when he catches the ball, his mere presence opens up the rest of the offense by requiring teams to devote two defenders to him at all times.
So, once he was gone for the year due to an unfortunate incident involving a gun, a bullet and his leg, the Giants weren't the same.
He's now gone for good, and even though rookies Hakeem Nicks(notes) and Ramses Barden(notes) might replace his production, they won't command the same respect that essentially reduces the field to 10-on-9.
5. Minnesota Vikings
Once every few years, the Vikings are the trendy pick to get back to the Super Bowl.
Thirty-three years and counting, they've yet to deliver on the expectations.
This year, many will dub the Vikings as a potential Super Bowl team.
And for good reason. Adrian Peterson is the best running back in the game. The defense remains solid, especially against the run. Defensive end Jared Allen(notes) punctuates a great pass rush.
The biggest question mark—the passing game—could become an exclamation point if Brett Favre(notes) ends up becoming the quarterback.
With or without Favre, there's something about this team that just doesn't click. Plenty of their fans sense it, even if they won't admit it to themselves during the high-hopes phase of the calendar, when everyone is 0-0.
Frankly, it's the coach. And if the Vikings don't make it back to the playoffs in 2009, there will be a new one in Minnesota next year at this time.
6. Arizona Cardinals
I've said it before, I'll say it again—the fact that the Cardinals have finally made it to a Super Bowl doesn't mean they finally know how to run a successful football operation.
Yes, they've re-signed quarterback Kurt Warner(notes) after basically inviting him to find another job. And they've addressed one of the primary weaknesses on the roster by taking running back Chris "Beanie" Wells at the bottom of round one.
But this team has issues. Multiple assistant coaches are gone, including the offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator.
Receiver Anquan Boldin(notes) still wants out, and the team has engaged in a half-hearted effort to create the impression that meaningful trade talks occurred.
They didn't. The Cardinals dragged their feet and didn't give Boldin's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, permission to work out a contract with a new team. So, now, the Cardinals likely are shrugging their shoulders (do birds have shoulders?) and taking the position that, well, they tried.
Meanwhile, they likely don't want to give Boldin the kind of raise he wants.
He behaved in 2008; he might try a different approach in 2009. And the Cardinals might regret not dealing with the situation differently.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals are the hunted, for the first time in a very long time. And so every week they'll see the best that the opponents have to offer, and when the dust settles they'll likely be back in a more familiar position—out of the running for the silver trophy they almost won in February.
Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.
They look at the dozen franchises that made it a year ago, and they replace maybe the bottom team in each conference's playoff field with a team that was close to qualifying.
But the reality is that, typically, half of the teams that played in the postseason last year won't be back the next time around.
In 2008, more than half of the 2007 playoff teams didn't return for an encore.
Seven of the 12 franchises didn't qualify again. In the AFC, only two of the six from the year before were bounced; in the NFC, the turnover rate was 83.3 percent as five of the six teams that qualified in 2007 were left holding a big bag of nothing in '08.
For present purposes, we'll assume that six of the teams will make it back and six won't.
Today's challenge? Identifying the six teams that will play only 16 games that count this season.
1. Miami Dolphins
No one saw the Dolphins coming in 2008. This year, everyone does.
Their reward for winning the AFC East last year includes a first-place schedule, which features games against the Steelers and the Chargers, and games against every team in the AFC South and NFC South.
Oh, and two against the Patriots.
Last year, New England racked up 48 points against the Fins in Miami. With Matt Cassel(notes) at quarterback. With Tom Brady(notes) back, the Pats could score 70.
The '08 Dolphins also benefited from the absence of injuries. This season, chances are the Dolphins will be dealing with many more major and minor sprains and strains and snaps and cracks. And a harder schedule. And an improved Patriots team. And a bigger target on their backs.
So, yeah, it might be too much to expect the Dolphins to match last year's unlikely feat.
2. Tennessee Titans
Last year, the Titans' season started with a thud. Sure, they beat the Jaguars. But quarterback Vince Young(notes) suffered a sprained knee and a fractured ego.
Enter Kerry Collins(notes), who did just enough to complement a great defense and a strong running game to propel the Titans to the best regular-season record in the league.
This year, however, the guy who made that defense go—defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth(notes)—is long gone.
And Kerry Collins is still the starter.
And the receivers really aren't all that much better.
And defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz is coaching the Lions.
And the up-and-down Jaguars are due to be up again.
And the Texans seem poised to finally make the playoffs.
Odd men out? Yep, the Titans.
3. San Diego Chargers
Last year, the San Diego Chargers needed a miracle to capture the watered-down AFC West and make it to the playoffs.
This year, lightning might not strike again.
On paper, the Chargers have the talent. But questions persist regarding whether Norv Turner is the right man for this or any NFL head-coaching job.
So even with Philip Rivers(notes), LaDainian Tomlinson(notes), Darren Sproles(notes) and a healthy Shawne Merriman(notes) and a healthy Jyles Tucker(notes) and a rookie first-rounder who does the same thing that both of them do, it might not be enough to make it four straight division titles in a wide-open AFC West featuring teams in Kansas City and Oakland that might be more dangerous than expected. (We can forget about the Broncos.)
4. New York Giants
I know, I know. I said last year that the Giants wouldn't follow their Super Bowl title with another playoff appearance.
So maybe, if I say it again, the odds will be in my favor.
This time around, my confidence is bolstered by the fact that the Giants can't consistently move the ball without a high-end wideout like Plaxico Burress(notes). Apart from what he does when he catches the ball, his mere presence opens up the rest of the offense by requiring teams to devote two defenders to him at all times.
So, once he was gone for the year due to an unfortunate incident involving a gun, a bullet and his leg, the Giants weren't the same.
He's now gone for good, and even though rookies Hakeem Nicks(notes) and Ramses Barden(notes) might replace his production, they won't command the same respect that essentially reduces the field to 10-on-9.
5. Minnesota Vikings
Once every few years, the Vikings are the trendy pick to get back to the Super Bowl.
Thirty-three years and counting, they've yet to deliver on the expectations.
This year, many will dub the Vikings as a potential Super Bowl team.
And for good reason. Adrian Peterson is the best running back in the game. The defense remains solid, especially against the run. Defensive end Jared Allen(notes) punctuates a great pass rush.
The biggest question mark—the passing game—could become an exclamation point if Brett Favre(notes) ends up becoming the quarterback.
With or without Favre, there's something about this team that just doesn't click. Plenty of their fans sense it, even if they won't admit it to themselves during the high-hopes phase of the calendar, when everyone is 0-0.
Frankly, it's the coach. And if the Vikings don't make it back to the playoffs in 2009, there will be a new one in Minnesota next year at this time.
6. Arizona Cardinals
I've said it before, I'll say it again—the fact that the Cardinals have finally made it to a Super Bowl doesn't mean they finally know how to run a successful football operation.
Yes, they've re-signed quarterback Kurt Warner(notes) after basically inviting him to find another job. And they've addressed one of the primary weaknesses on the roster by taking running back Chris "Beanie" Wells at the bottom of round one.
But this team has issues. Multiple assistant coaches are gone, including the offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator.
Receiver Anquan Boldin(notes) still wants out, and the team has engaged in a half-hearted effort to create the impression that meaningful trade talks occurred.
They didn't. The Cardinals dragged their feet and didn't give Boldin's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, permission to work out a contract with a new team. So, now, the Cardinals likely are shrugging their shoulders (do birds have shoulders?) and taking the position that, well, they tried.
Meanwhile, they likely don't want to give Boldin the kind of raise he wants.
He behaved in 2008; he might try a different approach in 2009. And the Cardinals might regret not dealing with the situation differently.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals are the hunted, for the first time in a very long time. And so every week they'll see the best that the opponents have to offer, and when the dust settles they'll likely be back in a more familiar position—out of the running for the silver trophy they almost won in February.
Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The Arizona Cardinals granted running back Edgerrin James' wish to be released on Tuesday and cut two others who played significant roles in the team's run to the Super Bowl.
While James' move was anticipated, the release of cornerback Rod Hood and defensive end Travis LaBoy was not.
The moves clear salary cap space for the Cardinals, who want to sign new deals with linebacker Karlos Dansby and safety Adrian Wilson, and eventually with unhappy wide receiver Anquan Boldin.
James, Hood and LaBoy combined were to have made $10 million next season, but because of the $7.5 million signing bonus given to LaBoy a year ago, the cap savings will be several million dollars less than what the three would have earned. Still, it gives spending room to a franchise that had been just below the salary ceiling.
"Edgerrin James had a great run in Arizona and now it is time for him to continue his Hall of Fame career elsewhere," James' agent Drew Rosenhaus told ESPN.com's John Clayton. "One of his goals was to help the Cardinals get to a Super Bowl and he is eager to help another team get to that same level. Edgerrin is excited about signing with a new team. So far, several teams have expressed interest and we may have a deal in place in the very near future."
James had 794 carries for 2,895 yards and 16 touchdowns in his three seasons in Arizona. He topped 1,000 yards in 2006 and 2007, and his resurgence during last season's playoffs gave Arizona the running game it had sorely lacked.
He was benched for seven games earlier in 2008, the first time that's happened in his career, and he asked the team to release him then. The Cardinals refused, and he was reinserted into the lineup late in the season.
Despite it being such a difficult year, it led to James' only Super Bowl.
James had sought his release early in the free agency period, but the Cardinals held off until after last weekend's draft, where they chose Ohio State running back Chris "Beanie" Wells in the first round, the No. 31 pick overall. Wells and second-year pro Tim Hightower are expected to be Arizona's featured backs in the coming season.
James, 30, had one year left, at $5 million, on the four-year, $40 million deal he signed with Arizona before the 2006 season. He recently experienced a personal tragedy with the death of his longtime girlfriend, and mother of his four children, of leukemia at age 30.
In his 10-year career, James has rushed for 12,121 yards, 11th on the NFL career list and first among active players.
Hood appeared in 31 games, 30 as a starter, since signing with Arizona as a free agent in 2007. He had 105 tackles and six interceptions. The Cardinals added a cornerback in free agency by signing Bryant McFadden, then drafted Greg Toler out of tiny St. Paul's College of Virginia in the fourth round on Sunday.
While James' move was anticipated, the release of cornerback Rod Hood and defensive end Travis LaBoy was not.
The moves clear salary cap space for the Cardinals, who want to sign new deals with linebacker Karlos Dansby and safety Adrian Wilson, and eventually with unhappy wide receiver Anquan Boldin.
James, Hood and LaBoy combined were to have made $10 million next season, but because of the $7.5 million signing bonus given to LaBoy a year ago, the cap savings will be several million dollars less than what the three would have earned. Still, it gives spending room to a franchise that had been just below the salary ceiling.
"Edgerrin James had a great run in Arizona and now it is time for him to continue his Hall of Fame career elsewhere," James' agent Drew Rosenhaus told ESPN.com's John Clayton. "One of his goals was to help the Cardinals get to a Super Bowl and he is eager to help another team get to that same level. Edgerrin is excited about signing with a new team. So far, several teams have expressed interest and we may have a deal in place in the very near future."
James had 794 carries for 2,895 yards and 16 touchdowns in his three seasons in Arizona. He topped 1,000 yards in 2006 and 2007, and his resurgence during last season's playoffs gave Arizona the running game it had sorely lacked.
He was benched for seven games earlier in 2008, the first time that's happened in his career, and he asked the team to release him then. The Cardinals refused, and he was reinserted into the lineup late in the season.
Despite it being such a difficult year, it led to James' only Super Bowl.
James had sought his release early in the free agency period, but the Cardinals held off until after last weekend's draft, where they chose Ohio State running back Chris "Beanie" Wells in the first round, the No. 31 pick overall. Wells and second-year pro Tim Hightower are expected to be Arizona's featured backs in the coming season.
James, 30, had one year left, at $5 million, on the four-year, $40 million deal he signed with Arizona before the 2006 season. He recently experienced a personal tragedy with the death of his longtime girlfriend, and mother of his four children, of leukemia at age 30.
In his 10-year career, James has rushed for 12,121 yards, 11th on the NFL career list and first among active players.
Hood appeared in 31 games, 30 as a starter, since signing with Arizona as a free agent in 2007. He had 105 tackles and six interceptions. The Cardinals added a cornerback in free agency by signing Bryant McFadden, then drafted Greg Toler out of tiny St. Paul's College of Virginia in the fourth round on Sunday.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
I hope the Titans land Boldin today!
Maybe the Arizona Cardinals will deal wide receiver Anquan Boldin Saturday. A potention trade partner, according to Scout.com, might be the Tennessee Titans. The web site reports the Cardinals have been gathering information on Tennessee running backs LenDale White and Chris Henry according to the report.
The Titans have interest in WR Anquan Boldin so Arizona's potential interest in either back could signal that trade discussions could intensify over the next 24 hours.
White, who led the NFL in rushing touchdowns last season, is on the final year of his contract. Henry, who was selected in the second round of the 2007 season and created a lot of pre-draft buzz two years ago because of his speed and size, only played in one game last season and only in eight over his first two seasons.
The Titans have interest in WR Anquan Boldin so Arizona's potential interest in either back could signal that trade discussions could intensify over the next 24 hours.
White, who led the NFL in rushing touchdowns last season, is on the final year of his contract. Henry, who was selected in the second round of the 2007 season and created a lot of pre-draft buzz two years ago because of his speed and size, only played in one game last season and only in eight over his first two seasons.
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