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.
Monday, August 31, 2009
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.
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