In addition to the Washington-NY Giants game on Thursday, September 4th, the NFL's primetime opening weekend looks like this:
Sunday, September 7th
Chicago at Indianapolis (NBC) at 815pm ET (first game at Lucas Oil Stadium)
Monday, September 8th
Minnesota vs. Green Bay (ESPN) at 6pm ET
Denver vs. Oakland (ESPN) at 10:15pm ET
Monday, March 31, 2008
Vikings-Packers to Open MNF Schedule
The Star Tribune is reporting that the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers will open the 2008 Monday Night Football season at 6pm ET on September 8th, 2008.
"The NFL will announce this afternoon that the Vikings will play the Green Bay Packers in the Monday night opener at 6 p.m. Sept. 8 on ESPN, according to an industry source. As has become the custom, it will be the first game of a Monday night doubleheader on the network. The game is expected to be played at Lambeau Field and will be the first for the Packers in the post-Brett Favre era."
"The NFL will announce this afternoon that the Vikings will play the Green Bay Packers in the Monday night opener at 6 p.m. Sept. 8 on ESPN, according to an industry source. As has become the custom, it will be the first game of a Monday night doubleheader on the network. The game is expected to be played at Lambeau Field and will be the first for the Packers in the post-Brett Favre era."
NFL To Announce 2008's Week 1 Primetime Schedule Today
Brad Biggs of the Chicago Sun-Times writes that the NFL is expected to announce compensatory picks this week. He also writes that there's scuttlebutt that the league will announce the full 2008 schedule on Thursday, but even NFL spokesman Greg Aiello has confirmed that won't happen on April 3rd (Thursday).
As for the NFL's Week 1 national prime-time TV schedule, that is expected to be released today. Here's one man's opinion on what that'll look like:
Thursday, September 4th: Washington at New York Giants, 7pm (NBC) *Confirmed*
Sunday, September 7th: New England at San Diego, 815pm (NBC)
Monday, September 8th: Chicago at Indianapolis, 7pm (ESPN)
Monday, September 8th: Dallas at Arizona, 10pm (ESPN)
I'll check back later with how wrong I was.
NFL News and Notes
ESPN's Ed Werder, who may or may not live at the Dallas Cowboys' facilities, reports that trade talks between Dallas and Tennessee for Adam "Pacman" Jones may have stalled.
Despite the depth the team already has at the position, Arkansas running back Darren McFadden will visit with the New England Patriots in Foxborough, Mass. before next month's NFL Draft.
Stephen Ross, the next owner of the Miami Dolphins, is a generous guy.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin feels good about the pieces his team has in place for 2008.
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Domata Peko would be disappointed if the NFL passed a rule restricting hair length because it's part of his Samoan culture.
What does Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen think of Roger Goodell's plan on changing the NFL's playoff seeding format? "I think it's a very bad idea,".
"Especially when you're in a competitive division," Bowlen said. "It can be tough to have a good record when you have so many tough teams in your division. In my mind, the AFC West is a very competitive division. The fans are into the rivalries that exist in our division."
The Dallas Cowboys' off-season workout program gets underway today.
When the New York Giants begin their off-season workout program today, several high profile players won't be in attendance.
The Minnesota Vikings are likely to make another attempt at trading for Houston Texans quarterback Sage Rosenfels.
After swinging and missing on free agents and a trade possibility, the Detroit Lions off-season plan to upgrade the middle linebacker position has now come down to the draft. Lions head coach Rod Marinelli listed 10 draft prospects at positions of need that the team is interested in.
It's not mentioned anywhere in the Seattle online fish wraps, but the Seattle Seahawks off-season workout program gets underway today.
Non-Football News
With 26 teams set to play their first game of the season today, the 2008 Major League Baseball season officially gets underway today. Below are my 2008 MLB predictions:
AL East
1. Boston
2. Toronto
3. New York
4. Tampa Bay
5. Baltimore
AL Central
1. Detroit
2. Cleveland
3. Chicago
4. Minnesota
5. Kansas City
AL West
1. Seattle
2. LA Angels
3. Oakland
4. Texas
NL East
1. Atlanta
2. NY Mets
3. Philadelphia
4. Washington
5. Florida
NL Central
1. Chicago
2. Milwaukee
3. Cincinnati
4. St. Louis
5. Houston
6. Pittsburgh
NL West
1. Arizona
2. San Diego
3. Colorado
4. Los Angeles
5. San Francisco
AL/NL Divisional Series
Cleveland over Boston
Detroit over Seattle
Chicago over NY Mets
Arizona over Atlanta
AL/NL Championship Series
Cleveland over Detroit
Arizona over Chicago
World Series
Arizona over Cleveland
Awards
AL Cy Young: CC Sabathia, Cleveland
NL Cy Young: Jake Peavy, San Diego
AL MVP: Alex Rodriguez, New York Yankees
NL MVP: David Wright, New York Mets
AL Rookie of the Year: Evan Longoria, Tampa Bay
NL Rookie of the Year: Geovany Soto, Chicago Cubs
AL Manager of the Year: John McLaren, Seattle
NL Manager of the Year: Bobby Cox, Atlanta
As for the NFL's Week 1 national prime-time TV schedule, that is expected to be released today. Here's one man's opinion on what that'll look like:
Thursday, September 4th: Washington at New York Giants, 7pm (NBC) *Confirmed*
Sunday, September 7th: New England at San Diego, 815pm (NBC)
Monday, September 8th: Chicago at Indianapolis, 7pm (ESPN)
Monday, September 8th: Dallas at Arizona, 10pm (ESPN)
I'll check back later with how wrong I was.
NFL News and Notes
ESPN's Ed Werder, who may or may not live at the Dallas Cowboys' facilities, reports that trade talks between Dallas and Tennessee for Adam "Pacman" Jones may have stalled.
Despite the depth the team already has at the position, Arkansas running back Darren McFadden will visit with the New England Patriots in Foxborough, Mass. before next month's NFL Draft.
Stephen Ross, the next owner of the Miami Dolphins, is a generous guy.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin feels good about the pieces his team has in place for 2008.
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Domata Peko would be disappointed if the NFL passed a rule restricting hair length because it's part of his Samoan culture.
What does Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen think of Roger Goodell's plan on changing the NFL's playoff seeding format? "I think it's a very bad idea,".
"Especially when you're in a competitive division," Bowlen said. "It can be tough to have a good record when you have so many tough teams in your division. In my mind, the AFC West is a very competitive division. The fans are into the rivalries that exist in our division."
The Dallas Cowboys' off-season workout program gets underway today.
When the New York Giants begin their off-season workout program today, several high profile players won't be in attendance.
The Minnesota Vikings are likely to make another attempt at trading for Houston Texans quarterback Sage Rosenfels.
After swinging and missing on free agents and a trade possibility, the Detroit Lions off-season plan to upgrade the middle linebacker position has now come down to the draft. Lions head coach Rod Marinelli listed 10 draft prospects at positions of need that the team is interested in.
It's not mentioned anywhere in the Seattle online fish wraps, but the Seattle Seahawks off-season workout program gets underway today.
Non-Football News
With 26 teams set to play their first game of the season today, the 2008 Major League Baseball season officially gets underway today. Below are my 2008 MLB predictions:
AL East
1. Boston
2. Toronto
3. New York
4. Tampa Bay
5. Baltimore
AL Central
1. Detroit
2. Cleveland
3. Chicago
4. Minnesota
5. Kansas City
AL West
1. Seattle
2. LA Angels
3. Oakland
4. Texas
NL East
1. Atlanta
2. NY Mets
3. Philadelphia
4. Washington
5. Florida
NL Central
1. Chicago
2. Milwaukee
3. Cincinnati
4. St. Louis
5. Houston
6. Pittsburgh
NL West
1. Arizona
2. San Diego
3. Colorado
4. Los Angeles
5. San Francisco
AL/NL Divisional Series
Cleveland over Boston
Detroit over Seattle
Chicago over NY Mets
Arizona over Atlanta
AL/NL Championship Series
Cleveland over Detroit
Arizona over Chicago
World Series
Arizona over Cleveland
Awards
AL Cy Young: CC Sabathia, Cleveland
NL Cy Young: Jake Peavy, San Diego
AL MVP: Alex Rodriguez, New York Yankees
NL MVP: David Wright, New York Mets
AL Rookie of the Year: Evan Longoria, Tampa Bay
NL Rookie of the Year: Geovany Soto, Chicago Cubs
AL Manager of the Year: John McLaren, Seattle
NL Manager of the Year: Bobby Cox, Atlanta
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Roger Goodell Seeks to Preserve Integrity of the Game
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell circulated a memo to all 32 NFL teams stating that "it was time to preserve the competitive integrity of the game".
How can Goodell keep a straight face while stressing "integrity" when it was his office that destroyed the evidence it discovered in a very brief investigation of the one team that was caught cheating during a game?
By the way, one of the biggest proponents of putting a radio device inside a defender's helmet, which is something the owners will be voting on this week, has been Bill Belichick. So by defying NFL rules and pointing a camera at the Jets sidelines last year, Belichick and the Patriots likely pushed enough holdouts to the other side and he'll get his way.
Who said cheaters never prosper?
I admit that I'm not the least bit impressed by Goodell's performance as commissioner to date. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if his run as commissioner winds up being one of the shortest tenures in NFL commissioner history.
Why do I think that? He's bumbled just about every single decision hes had to make thus far, which doesn't bode well considering the league is going to face labor strife, possibly even a strike, before the 2010 season.
NFL News and Notes
The Dallas Cowboys could expect the contract for the naming rights on their new stadium to exceed the 20-year, $400 million contracts buildings like the Barclays Center (New Jersey Nets) and Citi Field (New York Mets) received.
Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is playing golf and having fun.
New Green Bay Packers president Matt Murphy is ready for his first owner's meeting.
St. Louis Rams defensive end Leonard Little is confident his surgically reconstructed left big toe won't slow him down in 2008.
The Buffalo Bills need more than a tall wide receiver and a tight end in next month's draft.
Dave Hutchinson of The Star Ledger thinks that because the New York Jets signed Calvin Pace, they'll trade down instead of selecting Ohio State linebacker Vernon Gholston.
Pittsburgh Steelers free safety Ryan Clark, who had his spleen and gall bladder removed last year, is back working out at the Steelers practice facility.
Baltimore Ravens left tackle Jonathan Ogden said he'll likely have a decision about retirement before next month's NFL Draft.
The Indianapolis Colts' off-season conditioning program gets underway tomorrow.
Currently suspended Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones said last night that his days as a Titan are over with. He also signed an autograph using the number "21" (he wore #32 for the Titans), which he thinks Deion Sanders would be fine with him using if he becomes a Dallas Cowboy.
How can Goodell keep a straight face while stressing "integrity" when it was his office that destroyed the evidence it discovered in a very brief investigation of the one team that was caught cheating during a game?
By the way, one of the biggest proponents of putting a radio device inside a defender's helmet, which is something the owners will be voting on this week, has been Bill Belichick. So by defying NFL rules and pointing a camera at the Jets sidelines last year, Belichick and the Patriots likely pushed enough holdouts to the other side and he'll get his way.
Who said cheaters never prosper?
I admit that I'm not the least bit impressed by Goodell's performance as commissioner to date. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if his run as commissioner winds up being one of the shortest tenures in NFL commissioner history.
Why do I think that? He's bumbled just about every single decision hes had to make thus far, which doesn't bode well considering the league is going to face labor strife, possibly even a strike, before the 2010 season.
NFL News and Notes
The Dallas Cowboys could expect the contract for the naming rights on their new stadium to exceed the 20-year, $400 million contracts buildings like the Barclays Center (New Jersey Nets) and Citi Field (New York Mets) received.
Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is playing golf and having fun.
New Green Bay Packers president Matt Murphy is ready for his first owner's meeting.
St. Louis Rams defensive end Leonard Little is confident his surgically reconstructed left big toe won't slow him down in 2008.
The Buffalo Bills need more than a tall wide receiver and a tight end in next month's draft.
Dave Hutchinson of The Star Ledger thinks that because the New York Jets signed Calvin Pace, they'll trade down instead of selecting Ohio State linebacker Vernon Gholston.
Pittsburgh Steelers free safety Ryan Clark, who had his spleen and gall bladder removed last year, is back working out at the Steelers practice facility.
Baltimore Ravens left tackle Jonathan Ogden said he'll likely have a decision about retirement before next month's NFL Draft.
The Indianapolis Colts' off-season conditioning program gets underway tomorrow.
Currently suspended Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones said last night that his days as a Titan are over with. He also signed an autograph using the number "21" (he wore #32 for the Titans), which he thinks Deion Sanders would be fine with him using if he becomes a Dallas Cowboy.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
NFL to Announce Kickoff Weekend National TV Schedule
The NFL is going to announce the national TV schedule for it's opening weekend of the 2008 season, and Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe takes a look at the possible games that could involve the New England Patriots.
New England at San Diego would be a great match-up, and it's real easy to envision that one being the Sunday night game on NBC. But with the Red Sox on the road on opening weekend, though, in my opinion I think we'll end up seeing the Patriots host a team (Buffalo, NY Jets, Pittsburgh) in a non-nationally televised game on Sunday or in the early game on Monday Night Football in Week 1.
NFL News and Notes
Former Buffalo Bills tight end Kevin Everett praised the experimental therapies being developed at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis.
The New York Jets didn't extend Laveranues Coles' contract, they simply guaranteed the final two years and $11 million dollars remaining on it.
Free agent safety Chris Crocker agreed to a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins.
When the NFL league meetings get underway today, the elephant in the room will be the league's collective bargaining agreement, which the owners are likely to vote to opt out of in November, writes Ed Bouchette.
The Cleveland Browns signed guard Seth McKinney to a one-year contract. Whoever was working overnight at the Houston Chronicle seems to think that this is the same McKinney brother the Houston Texans released earlier this week. (Read the page description at the top of your computer screen.)
Restricted free agent cornerback Chris Carr signed an offer sheet with the Tennessee Titans. (I wonder what Titans GM Mike Reinfeldt thinks of the picture The Tennessean used with the story. Carr getting burned by Bernard Berrian? Yeah, that's not the image of Carr the Titans want to show their fans this morning.)
New Denver Broncos linebacker Niko Koutouvides wants to let his play on the field do the talking.
The Oakland Raiders signed free agent defensive end Kalimba Edwards to a two-year contract worth $5 million dollars.
Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News looks at the not-so-obvious draft needs of the Dallas Cowboys, including quarterback.
Mike Garafolo of The Star Ledger clarifies the Michael Strahan situation.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers GM Bruce Allen says the Buccaneers will not be vote to change the way playoff teams are seeded and will actively attempt to persuade others, too.
The Carolina Panthers signed free agent guard Milford Brown on Friday.
St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Claude Wroten wants to prove that he's not a bust. For the first time since 1993, the Rams off-season program began without wide receiver Isaac Bruce.
New England at San Diego would be a great match-up, and it's real easy to envision that one being the Sunday night game on NBC. But with the Red Sox on the road on opening weekend, though, in my opinion I think we'll end up seeing the Patriots host a team (Buffalo, NY Jets, Pittsburgh) in a non-nationally televised game on Sunday or in the early game on Monday Night Football in Week 1.
NFL News and Notes
Former Buffalo Bills tight end Kevin Everett praised the experimental therapies being developed at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis.
The New York Jets didn't extend Laveranues Coles' contract, they simply guaranteed the final two years and $11 million dollars remaining on it.
Free agent safety Chris Crocker agreed to a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins.
When the NFL league meetings get underway today, the elephant in the room will be the league's collective bargaining agreement, which the owners are likely to vote to opt out of in November, writes Ed Bouchette.
The Cleveland Browns signed guard Seth McKinney to a one-year contract. Whoever was working overnight at the Houston Chronicle seems to think that this is the same McKinney brother the Houston Texans released earlier this week. (Read the page description at the top of your computer screen.)
Restricted free agent cornerback Chris Carr signed an offer sheet with the Tennessee Titans. (I wonder what Titans GM Mike Reinfeldt thinks of the picture The Tennessean used with the story. Carr getting burned by Bernard Berrian? Yeah, that's not the image of Carr the Titans want to show their fans this morning.)
New Denver Broncos linebacker Niko Koutouvides wants to let his play on the field do the talking.
The Oakland Raiders signed free agent defensive end Kalimba Edwards to a two-year contract worth $5 million dollars.
Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News looks at the not-so-obvious draft needs of the Dallas Cowboys, including quarterback.
Mike Garafolo of The Star Ledger clarifies the Michael Strahan situation.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers GM Bruce Allen says the Buccaneers will not be vote to change the way playoff teams are seeded and will actively attempt to persuade others, too.
The Carolina Panthers signed free agent guard Milford Brown on Friday.
St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Claude Wroten wants to prove that he's not a bust. For the first time since 1993, the Rams off-season program began without wide receiver Isaac Bruce.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Mac's 2008 NFL Mock Draft - 1.0
Since we're just 29 days away from the 2008 NFL Draft, I thought I'd check in with the first of what will be a series of mock drafts, culminating in my third annual 7-round mock draft. (2007, 2006)
In the two years of doing a full, 7-round mock draft, I think I've gotten about a dozen selections right. Hey, I did correctly call that the Seahawks would take Ryan Plackemeier in the 7th round in 2006. That same year I had John McCargo going in the 3rd round, but Marv Levy sure changed that one.
Anyways, here's one man's opinion on what the 1st round might look like 29 days from now:
1. Miami - DE, Chris Long, Virginia
2. St. Louis - DT, Glenn Dorsey, LSU
3. Atlanta - OT, Jake Long, Michigan
4. Oakland - RB, Darren McFadden, Arkansas
5. Kansas City - OT, Chris Williams, Vanderbilt
6. NY Jets - DE/LB, Vernon Gholston, Ohio State
7. New England - LB, Keith Rivers, USC
8. Baltimore - QB, Matt Ryan, Boston College
9. Cincinnati - DT, Sedrick Ellis, USC
10. New Orleans - CB, Leodis McKelvin, Troy State
11. Buffalo - CB, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Tennessee State
12. Denver - OT, Ryan Clady, Boise State
13. Carolina - OT, Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh
14. Chicago - RB, Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois
15. Detroit - DE, Derrick Harvey, Florida
16. Arizona - CB, Aqib Talib, Kansas
17. Minnesota - DE, Phillip Merling, Clemson
18. Houston - RB, Jonathan Stewart, Oregon
19. Philadelphia - WR, Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma
20. Tampa Bay - CB, Mike Jenkins, Central Florida
21. Washington - WR, Limas Sweed, Texas
22. Dallas (fr. Cleveland) - RB, Felix Jones, Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh - OL, Branden Albert, Virginia
24. Tennessee - DE, Calais Campbell, Miami
25. Seattle - TE, Fred Davis, USC
26. Jacksonville - DT, Kentwan Balmer, North Carolina
27. San Diego - OT, Gosder Cherilus, Boston College
28. Dallas - WR, Devin Thomas, Michigan State
29. San Francisco (fr. Indianapolis) - LB, Jerod Mayo, Tennessee
30. Green Bay - CB, Brandon Flowers, Virginia Tech
31. NY Giants - LB, Dan Connor, Penn State
Feel free to hammer me on any or all of these picks.
NFL News and Notes
The Dallas Cowboys are believed to be offering a day-two draft pick to the Tennessee Titans for cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones, who is willing to redo his contract to make a deal happen.
New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce was fined $1,300 for neglecting his pets.
The Minnesota Vikings are willing to pay $250 million towards a new $954 million dollar stadium. (I haven't seen the plans, but my fingers are crossed that it's an open-air stadium.)
Free agent linebacker Alfred Fincher signed with the Detroit Lions.
The Chicago Bears have an interest in Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah, who will work out for scouts on April 9th.
Quarterback Chris Simms time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is pretty much over.
New Orleans Saints defensive end Charles Grant has been no stranger to knives this off-season.
The Carolina Panthers held a private workout with Illinois running back Rashard Mendenhall on Thursday.
The Atlanta Falcons are taking a second look at Louisville quarterback Brian Brohm.
Kicker Olindo Mare agreed to two-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks.
The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly interested in free agent quarterback Brian St. Pierre and defensive end Rodney Bailey. Both players are former Pittsburgh Steelers.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith says he expects to be ready for mini-camp and wants to put last year behind him.
Bryan Burwell of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch writes that if LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey is as healthy as he looked on Wednesday, the St. Louis Rams decision about what to do with the 2nd pick is easy.
New England Patriots tight end Ben Watson had surgery on his left ankle earlier this month.
Allen Wilson of the Buffalo News writes that it's silly that the NFL is actually going to vote on an issue as absurd as hair length.
New York Jets wide receiver Laveranues Coles agreed to a contract extension, which may have added two or three years (and more guaranteed money) to his contract.
The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed defensive end Nick Eason and hosted a quintet of draft prospects, including Boston College offensive tackle Gosder Cherilus, on Thursday.
The Cleveland Browns added a pair of assistant coaches to their staff.
Tennessee Titans guard Benji Olson announced his retirement after 10 years in the NFL.
Health is the biggest question mark facing Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub. The Texans officially signed safety Nick Ferguson yesterday.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall says it's time for him to grow up.
Free agent quarterbacks Erik Meyer and Jeff Otis signed with the Oakland Raiders.
In the two years of doing a full, 7-round mock draft, I think I've gotten about a dozen selections right. Hey, I did correctly call that the Seahawks would take Ryan Plackemeier in the 7th round in 2006. That same year I had John McCargo going in the 3rd round, but Marv Levy sure changed that one.
Anyways, here's one man's opinion on what the 1st round might look like 29 days from now:
1. Miami - DE, Chris Long, Virginia
2. St. Louis - DT, Glenn Dorsey, LSU
3. Atlanta - OT, Jake Long, Michigan
4. Oakland - RB, Darren McFadden, Arkansas
5. Kansas City - OT, Chris Williams, Vanderbilt
6. NY Jets - DE/LB, Vernon Gholston, Ohio State
7. New England - LB, Keith Rivers, USC
8. Baltimore - QB, Matt Ryan, Boston College
9. Cincinnati - DT, Sedrick Ellis, USC
10. New Orleans - CB, Leodis McKelvin, Troy State
11. Buffalo - CB, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Tennessee State
12. Denver - OT, Ryan Clady, Boise State
13. Carolina - OT, Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh
14. Chicago - RB, Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois
15. Detroit - DE, Derrick Harvey, Florida
16. Arizona - CB, Aqib Talib, Kansas
17. Minnesota - DE, Phillip Merling, Clemson
18. Houston - RB, Jonathan Stewart, Oregon
19. Philadelphia - WR, Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma
20. Tampa Bay - CB, Mike Jenkins, Central Florida
21. Washington - WR, Limas Sweed, Texas
22. Dallas (fr. Cleveland) - RB, Felix Jones, Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh - OL, Branden Albert, Virginia
24. Tennessee - DE, Calais Campbell, Miami
25. Seattle - TE, Fred Davis, USC
26. Jacksonville - DT, Kentwan Balmer, North Carolina
27. San Diego - OT, Gosder Cherilus, Boston College
28. Dallas - WR, Devin Thomas, Michigan State
29. San Francisco (fr. Indianapolis) - LB, Jerod Mayo, Tennessee
30. Green Bay - CB, Brandon Flowers, Virginia Tech
31. NY Giants - LB, Dan Connor, Penn State
Feel free to hammer me on any or all of these picks.
NFL News and Notes
The Dallas Cowboys are believed to be offering a day-two draft pick to the Tennessee Titans for cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones, who is willing to redo his contract to make a deal happen.
New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce was fined $1,300 for neglecting his pets.
The Minnesota Vikings are willing to pay $250 million towards a new $954 million dollar stadium. (I haven't seen the plans, but my fingers are crossed that it's an open-air stadium.)
Free agent linebacker Alfred Fincher signed with the Detroit Lions.
The Chicago Bears have an interest in Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah, who will work out for scouts on April 9th.
Quarterback Chris Simms time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is pretty much over.
New Orleans Saints defensive end Charles Grant has been no stranger to knives this off-season.
The Carolina Panthers held a private workout with Illinois running back Rashard Mendenhall on Thursday.
The Atlanta Falcons are taking a second look at Louisville quarterback Brian Brohm.
Kicker Olindo Mare agreed to two-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks.
The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly interested in free agent quarterback Brian St. Pierre and defensive end Rodney Bailey. Both players are former Pittsburgh Steelers.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith says he expects to be ready for mini-camp and wants to put last year behind him.
Bryan Burwell of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch writes that if LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey is as healthy as he looked on Wednesday, the St. Louis Rams decision about what to do with the 2nd pick is easy.
New England Patriots tight end Ben Watson had surgery on his left ankle earlier this month.
Allen Wilson of the Buffalo News writes that it's silly that the NFL is actually going to vote on an issue as absurd as hair length.
New York Jets wide receiver Laveranues Coles agreed to a contract extension, which may have added two or three years (and more guaranteed money) to his contract.
The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed defensive end Nick Eason and hosted a quintet of draft prospects, including Boston College offensive tackle Gosder Cherilus, on Thursday.
The Cleveland Browns added a pair of assistant coaches to their staff.
Tennessee Titans guard Benji Olson announced his retirement after 10 years in the NFL.
Health is the biggest question mark facing Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub. The Texans officially signed safety Nick Ferguson yesterday.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall says it's time for him to grow up.
Free agent quarterbacks Erik Meyer and Jeff Otis signed with the Oakland Raiders.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
NFL League Meeting Agenda Set
The NFL will hold it's annual league meeting next week in Palm Beach, Florida, and there are several interesting items on the agenda. Here's one man's take on a few of the items being proposed:
1. Changing seeding procedures for the playoffs. The top two teams would be seeded 1-2, but the rest of the seeds would be determined by record and not by whether or not they won their division.
Atlanta Falcons president Rich McKay, a fixture on the NFL's competition committee, says this has been talked about ever since the league expanded to 32 teams and 8 divisions, and he doesn't think this rule would diminish the importance of winning the division.
I disagree.
Winning the division should mean more than just the ability to raise a banner and sell some t-shirts. In my opinion, division winners should get the right to host at least one playoff game. Hopefully, enough people in the NFL agree and keep this rule the way it is.
2. Implementing a 5-7 day period prior to free agency during which teams can discuss contract terms with the agents for pending free agents.
This is designed to stop teams from tampering with free agents. Ok, I get that. Now that Roger Goodell has punished a team for doing something that every team presently engages in, he has to do something to prevent it from happening in the future.
I just don't see how eliminating the period where teams have exclusive negotiating rights with their free agents is going to accomplish the integrity this commissioner seeks.
By putting a "5-7 day" period where teams can negotiate with the agents for pending free agents, the NFL would actually be opening the door for a different brand of tampering. What's to stop a team from calling the agent for a free agent on a division rival and intentionally inflating his value when they have no real desire to add that player?
Sure, it happens already now, but why create a league of tattle-tales?
3. Prohibiting long hair from obscuring a player's name on the back of his jersey.
Under the CBA, teams can make rules about personal appearance, they just can't enforce them. So this rule would require players to tuck their long hair into their helmet.
I just don't see what the big deal is. We're only talking about a handful of players that have hair long enough to obscure the name on the back of his jersey, and in some cases, it's a cultural thing that the NFL shouldn't concern itself with.
4. Eliminating the 5-yard penalty for minor facemask violations.
Under this rule, only serious 15-yard serious facemask violations would be flagged, which I kind of agree with, mainly because I think it's a cheap way for the offense to gain an additional five yards.
Plus, aren't we sick of ball-carriers looking for a flag every time someone's hand inadvertently touches their facemasks? Flag the serious ones, where the defender yanks or holds onto the facemask, but let the minor ones go.
5. Allow the use of instant replay to review field goals, except on those where the ball rises above the uprights because of camera angles.
Obviously, this is meant to right the wrong during the Browns-Ravens game last November, where the officials reviewed a non-reviewable play, extending the game which Cleveland eventually won in overtime.
Passing this rule makes sense, as long as it doesn't open the door for field goals that rise above the uprights to be reviewed.
NFL News and Notes
When wide receiver Jabar Gaffney became an unrestricted free agent, he was only interested in re-signing with the New England Patriots.
The Buffalo Bills re-signed three restricted and exclusive rights free agents.
What should the trio of decision-makers in the Miami Dolphins front office be called? If you want to vote on it, you can do so here.
New Pittsburgh Steelers center Justin Hartwig is well-versed in the history of Steelers centers.
The Cleveland Browns re-signed linebacker Kris Griffin.
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay conducted a Q&A session in his office. During the session, Irsay mentioned that several months ago, team president Bill Polian had his contract extended by a few years.
Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Drayton Florence is excited to be back in the Sunshine State. (I know. That San Diego weather is just awful when compared to the hot, humid, muggy, hurricane-attracting weather that hits America's wang each summer.)
Former Buffalo Bills linebacker Josh Stamer agreed to a two-year contract with the Tennessee Titans.
Could the Titans choose a running back early in next month's draft? "It's a possibility", says Titans head coach Jeff Fisher.
The Houston Texans hope to sign free agent safety Nick Ferguson today. The Texans will also meet with cornerback Andre Dyson.
Denver Broncos center Casey Wiegmann was $180K cheaper than restricted free agent Chris Myers, who signed with the Texans. The Broncos offered kicker Olindo Mare a contract.
Texas A&M tight end Martellus Bennett will visit the Dallas Cowboys before next month's draft.
Jim Zorn's head coaching debut is going to be seen by everyone, as the Washington Redskins will open up the 2008 NFL season against the defending Super Bowl champions, the New York Giants. The game will likely be at 7pm on September 4th, to accommodate the final night of the Republican National Convention.
Free agent tight end Kris Wilson agreed to a three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Green Bay Packers long snapper Don Davis is making the transition to a role in the team's front office.
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Colletto is planning a more balanced attack that puts pressure on the players and gives the quarterback the option to audible.
Colorado State quarterback Caleb Hanie will have a pre-draft visit with the Chicago Bears.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback/spectator Chris Simms has decided to not participate in the team's off-season workout program.
Here are 5 things you may not know about Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner.
Seattle Seahawks cornerback Marcus Trufant is agreeing to two long-term deals this week. One with his employer, the other with his fiancee.
The Arizona Cardinals used some of the cap room freed up by the Larry Fitzgerald contract extension to sign free agent outside linebacker Clark Haggans, and re-sign defensive ends Joe Tafoya and Bo Schobel, as well as wide receivers Ahmad Merritt and Jerheme Urban.
Most of the 5th round draft picks the San Francisco 49ers have made in the last 10 years haven't had an impact.
Yesterday I linked to a story where a flight attendant was suing former St. Louis Rams defensive end Tyoka Jackson for $1.2M. A jury awarded him $3,000 for medical expenses.
Pro Day News and Notes
Brad Briggs of the Chicago Sun-Times reports that nobody ran well at the LSU Pro Day.
Rutgers offensive lineman Jeremy Zuttah tweaked his lower back during his Pro Day workout.
1. Changing seeding procedures for the playoffs. The top two teams would be seeded 1-2, but the rest of the seeds would be determined by record and not by whether or not they won their division.
Atlanta Falcons president Rich McKay, a fixture on the NFL's competition committee, says this has been talked about ever since the league expanded to 32 teams and 8 divisions, and he doesn't think this rule would diminish the importance of winning the division.
I disagree.
Winning the division should mean more than just the ability to raise a banner and sell some t-shirts. In my opinion, division winners should get the right to host at least one playoff game. Hopefully, enough people in the NFL agree and keep this rule the way it is.
2. Implementing a 5-7 day period prior to free agency during which teams can discuss contract terms with the agents for pending free agents.
This is designed to stop teams from tampering with free agents. Ok, I get that. Now that Roger Goodell has punished a team for doing something that every team presently engages in, he has to do something to prevent it from happening in the future.
I just don't see how eliminating the period where teams have exclusive negotiating rights with their free agents is going to accomplish the integrity this commissioner seeks.
By putting a "5-7 day" period where teams can negotiate with the agents for pending free agents, the NFL would actually be opening the door for a different brand of tampering. What's to stop a team from calling the agent for a free agent on a division rival and intentionally inflating his value when they have no real desire to add that player?
Sure, it happens already now, but why create a league of tattle-tales?
3. Prohibiting long hair from obscuring a player's name on the back of his jersey.
Under the CBA, teams can make rules about personal appearance, they just can't enforce them. So this rule would require players to tuck their long hair into their helmet.
I just don't see what the big deal is. We're only talking about a handful of players that have hair long enough to obscure the name on the back of his jersey, and in some cases, it's a cultural thing that the NFL shouldn't concern itself with.
4. Eliminating the 5-yard penalty for minor facemask violations.
Under this rule, only serious 15-yard serious facemask violations would be flagged, which I kind of agree with, mainly because I think it's a cheap way for the offense to gain an additional five yards.
Plus, aren't we sick of ball-carriers looking for a flag every time someone's hand inadvertently touches their facemasks? Flag the serious ones, where the defender yanks or holds onto the facemask, but let the minor ones go.
5. Allow the use of instant replay to review field goals, except on those where the ball rises above the uprights because of camera angles.
Obviously, this is meant to right the wrong during the Browns-Ravens game last November, where the officials reviewed a non-reviewable play, extending the game which Cleveland eventually won in overtime.
Passing this rule makes sense, as long as it doesn't open the door for field goals that rise above the uprights to be reviewed.
NFL News and Notes
When wide receiver Jabar Gaffney became an unrestricted free agent, he was only interested in re-signing with the New England Patriots.
The Buffalo Bills re-signed three restricted and exclusive rights free agents.
What should the trio of decision-makers in the Miami Dolphins front office be called? If you want to vote on it, you can do so here.
New Pittsburgh Steelers center Justin Hartwig is well-versed in the history of Steelers centers.
The Cleveland Browns re-signed linebacker Kris Griffin.
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay conducted a Q&A session in his office. During the session, Irsay mentioned that several months ago, team president Bill Polian had his contract extended by a few years.
Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Drayton Florence is excited to be back in the Sunshine State. (I know. That San Diego weather is just awful when compared to the hot, humid, muggy, hurricane-attracting weather that hits America's wang each summer.)
Former Buffalo Bills linebacker Josh Stamer agreed to a two-year contract with the Tennessee Titans.
Could the Titans choose a running back early in next month's draft? "It's a possibility", says Titans head coach Jeff Fisher.
The Houston Texans hope to sign free agent safety Nick Ferguson today. The Texans will also meet with cornerback Andre Dyson.
Denver Broncos center Casey Wiegmann was $180K cheaper than restricted free agent Chris Myers, who signed with the Texans. The Broncos offered kicker Olindo Mare a contract.
Texas A&M tight end Martellus Bennett will visit the Dallas Cowboys before next month's draft.
Jim Zorn's head coaching debut is going to be seen by everyone, as the Washington Redskins will open up the 2008 NFL season against the defending Super Bowl champions, the New York Giants. The game will likely be at 7pm on September 4th, to accommodate the final night of the Republican National Convention.
Free agent tight end Kris Wilson agreed to a three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Green Bay Packers long snapper Don Davis is making the transition to a role in the team's front office.
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Colletto is planning a more balanced attack that puts pressure on the players and gives the quarterback the option to audible.
Colorado State quarterback Caleb Hanie will have a pre-draft visit with the Chicago Bears.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback/spectator Chris Simms has decided to not participate in the team's off-season workout program.
Here are 5 things you may not know about Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner.
Seattle Seahawks cornerback Marcus Trufant is agreeing to two long-term deals this week. One with his employer, the other with his fiancee.
The Arizona Cardinals used some of the cap room freed up by the Larry Fitzgerald contract extension to sign free agent outside linebacker Clark Haggans, and re-sign defensive ends Joe Tafoya and Bo Schobel, as well as wide receivers Ahmad Merritt and Jerheme Urban.
Most of the 5th round draft picks the San Francisco 49ers have made in the last 10 years haven't had an impact.
Yesterday I linked to a story where a flight attendant was suing former St. Louis Rams defensive end Tyoka Jackson for $1.2M. A jury awarded him $3,000 for medical expenses.
Pro Day News and Notes
Brad Briggs of the Chicago Sun-Times reports that nobody ran well at the LSU Pro Day.
Rutgers offensive lineman Jeremy Zuttah tweaked his lower back during his Pro Day workout.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Trufant Contract Numbers
Frank Hughes of the Tacoma News Tribune has some preliminary contract numbers on the new 6-year, $50.2 million dollar contract that Marcus Trufant will sign today.
The contract breaks down thusly:
$10 million dollar signing bonus.
$7 million dollar roster bonus in 2009.
$3 million dollar roster bonus in 2010.
Trufant's base salaries from 2008-2010 are $1M (2008), $1M (2009) and $5.7M (2010). Trufant also has $100K workout bonuses, which pushes the three-year total to $28 million dollars.
Trufant's cap numbers are (roughly):
2008: $2.767M ($1M base + $1.667M proration of signing bonus + $100K workout bonus)
2009: $9.767M ($1M base + $1.667M proration of signing bonus + $7M roster bonus + $100K workout bonus)
2010: $8.467M ($1M base + $1.667M proration of signing bonus + $3M roster bonus + $100K workout bonus)
The contract breaks down thusly:
$10 million dollar signing bonus.
$7 million dollar roster bonus in 2009.
$3 million dollar roster bonus in 2010.
Trufant's base salaries from 2008-2010 are $1M (2008), $1M (2009) and $5.7M (2010). Trufant also has $100K workout bonuses, which pushes the three-year total to $28 million dollars.
Trufant's cap numbers are (roughly):
2008: $2.767M ($1M base + $1.667M proration of signing bonus + $100K workout bonus)
2009: $9.767M ($1M base + $1.667M proration of signing bonus + $7M roster bonus + $100K workout bonus)
2010: $8.467M ($1M base + $1.667M proration of signing bonus + $3M roster bonus + $100K workout bonus)
Seahawks, Trufant Agree on Long-Term Deal
According to www.profootballtalk.com, the Seattle Seahawks have signed franchised cornerback Marcus Trufant to a six-year, $50.2M contract extension.
The deal reportedly includes $20 million in guaranteed money, and $28 million over the first three years of the deal.
Stay tuned for details.
The deal reportedly includes $20 million in guaranteed money, and $28 million over the first three years of the deal.
Stay tuned for details.
Pacman Pleads His Case
Adam "Pacman" Jones spent three hours talking on the Michael Irvin Show on ESPN Radio in Dallas. Audio from what I'm sure was a stimulating interview may be found here.
It's no secret that the Tennessee Titans plan on trading Jones as soon as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell reinstates him. Jones has expressed a desire to play for the Dallas Cowboys, who appear to be the only team that has shown any interest in acquiring the talented, but troubled, 24-year old cornerback from West Virginia.
Jean-Jacques Taylor of the Dallas Morning News still thinks the Cowboys trading for Jones would be a bad idea. In an earlier column, Taylor referred to the 68 strip clubs in the Dallas/Ft. Worth/Arlington area as a reason to not bring Jones into the fold.
NFL News and Notes
The Dallas Morning News is taking a daily look at draft prospects at the positions of need for hte Cowboys. Today's featured player is Oregon running back Jonathan Stewart.
New York Giants guard Rich Seubert signed a three-year contract extension.
Green Bay Packers GM Ted Thompson cruised in the NFL's Executive of the Year voting. Under Thompson's guidance, the Packers went 13-3, but fell short in the NFC title game.
I'm happy for Thompson, but apparently the standards for this award are dropping. Just two years ago, being the top football executive for a 13-3 team and actually making the Super Bowl weren't enough for Tim Ruskell to win the award. For what it's worth, Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer thinks the voters whiffed on this vote, too.
Free agent cornerback Benny Sapp signed a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Roy Williams says he's okay with being a "Lion for life". (Brooks from the Shawshank Redemption knows what Williams is talking about)
Hold onto your hats, but the Chicago Bears have selected a company to develop the team's first brand campaign in over a decade. And it's not who all those branding campaign mock drafts had projected!
No tampering charges have been filed against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees is legitimately excited to be back at work.
The Carolina Panthers signed free agent guard Toniu "Two-Ton" Fonoti, and could be interested in New York Jets defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson.
Jeff Schultz of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution thinks the Atlanta Falcons will choose LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey with the 3rd pick of the next month's NFL Draft.
The Seattle Seahawks signed linebacker D.D. Lewis and defensive lineman Chris Cooper to one-year deals on Tuesday. Both Lewis and Cooper previously played for Seattle, as recently as 2006.
Art Thiel of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer weighs in on how Seahawks president Tim Ruskell is rebuilding the running game, as well as the gaffes Ruskell made after the 2005 season.
The San Francisco 49ers can't even cheat right, writes Ray Ratto of the San Francisco Chronicle. Tim Kawakami teed off on the 49ers yesterday, as well.
St. Louis Rams guard Mark Setterstrom will compete with Brett Romberg and others for the starting center job. Rams linebacker Quinton Culberson will get a shot at a starting job.
Free agent wide receiver Reche Caldwell signed with the Rams, after turning down a contract offer from the Washington Redskins.
Former Rams defensive end Tyoka Jackson is being sued for $1.2 million by a male flight attendant Jackson allegedly pushed during a Memphis-to-St. Louis flight in 2005.
New England Patriots defensive lineman Richard Seymour is happy to participate in the team's off-season workout program for the first time in two years.
The Patriots re-signed exclusive rights free agents Wesley Britt and Pierre Woods on Tuesday.
The Buffalo Bills started their off-season workouts on Tuesday.
A new deal may be near for New York Jets wide receiver Laveranues Coles.
The Pittsburgh Steelers agreed to contracts with long snapper Greg Warren and defensive tackle Anthony "Booger" McFarland.
Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson wants to make it hard for the Jaguars to not re-sign him after this season.
In Paul Kuharsky's Titans notebook, there's word on when Vince Young will arrive for off-season workouts, a key role player gets a new deal and the Titans franchise player could soon be on an open market.
An original Houston Texan was released on Tuesday, but the door is open for his return.
The addition of assistant head coach Alex Gibbs should improve the Texans ground game, writes John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.
A $180,000 Mercedes belonging to San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman was engulfed in flames when police officers discovered it last Thursday.
Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey weighs in on the departure of kicker Jason Elam.
Woody Paige of the Denver Post is still looking for eggs from Easter '85, but he found the time to write about the many off-field exploits of Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall.
Pro Day News and Notes
A huge crowd turned out for the University of Arkansas Pro Day, and while all eyes may have been on Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, wide receiver Marcus Monk improved his draft stock yesterday.
28 of the 32 NFL teams turned out for the Pro Day at Wake Forest.
It's no secret that the Tennessee Titans plan on trading Jones as soon as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell reinstates him. Jones has expressed a desire to play for the Dallas Cowboys, who appear to be the only team that has shown any interest in acquiring the talented, but troubled, 24-year old cornerback from West Virginia.
Jean-Jacques Taylor of the Dallas Morning News still thinks the Cowboys trading for Jones would be a bad idea. In an earlier column, Taylor referred to the 68 strip clubs in the Dallas/Ft. Worth/Arlington area as a reason to not bring Jones into the fold.
NFL News and Notes
The Dallas Morning News is taking a daily look at draft prospects at the positions of need for hte Cowboys. Today's featured player is Oregon running back Jonathan Stewart.
New York Giants guard Rich Seubert signed a three-year contract extension.
Green Bay Packers GM Ted Thompson cruised in the NFL's Executive of the Year voting. Under Thompson's guidance, the Packers went 13-3, but fell short in the NFC title game.
I'm happy for Thompson, but apparently the standards for this award are dropping. Just two years ago, being the top football executive for a 13-3 team and actually making the Super Bowl weren't enough for Tim Ruskell to win the award. For what it's worth, Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer thinks the voters whiffed on this vote, too.
Free agent cornerback Benny Sapp signed a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Roy Williams says he's okay with being a "Lion for life". (Brooks from the Shawshank Redemption knows what Williams is talking about)
Hold onto your hats, but the Chicago Bears have selected a company to develop the team's first brand campaign in over a decade. And it's not who all those branding campaign mock drafts had projected!
No tampering charges have been filed against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees is legitimately excited to be back at work.
The Carolina Panthers signed free agent guard Toniu "Two-Ton" Fonoti, and could be interested in New York Jets defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson.
Jeff Schultz of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution thinks the Atlanta Falcons will choose LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey with the 3rd pick of the next month's NFL Draft.
The Seattle Seahawks signed linebacker D.D. Lewis and defensive lineman Chris Cooper to one-year deals on Tuesday. Both Lewis and Cooper previously played for Seattle, as recently as 2006.
Art Thiel of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer weighs in on how Seahawks president Tim Ruskell is rebuilding the running game, as well as the gaffes Ruskell made after the 2005 season.
The San Francisco 49ers can't even cheat right, writes Ray Ratto of the San Francisco Chronicle. Tim Kawakami teed off on the 49ers yesterday, as well.
St. Louis Rams guard Mark Setterstrom will compete with Brett Romberg and others for the starting center job. Rams linebacker Quinton Culberson will get a shot at a starting job.
Free agent wide receiver Reche Caldwell signed with the Rams, after turning down a contract offer from the Washington Redskins.
Former Rams defensive end Tyoka Jackson is being sued for $1.2 million by a male flight attendant Jackson allegedly pushed during a Memphis-to-St. Louis flight in 2005.
New England Patriots defensive lineman Richard Seymour is happy to participate in the team's off-season workout program for the first time in two years.
The Patriots re-signed exclusive rights free agents Wesley Britt and Pierre Woods on Tuesday.
The Buffalo Bills started their off-season workouts on Tuesday.
A new deal may be near for New York Jets wide receiver Laveranues Coles.
The Pittsburgh Steelers agreed to contracts with long snapper Greg Warren and defensive tackle Anthony "Booger" McFarland.
Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson wants to make it hard for the Jaguars to not re-sign him after this season.
In Paul Kuharsky's Titans notebook, there's word on when Vince Young will arrive for off-season workouts, a key role player gets a new deal and the Titans franchise player could soon be on an open market.
An original Houston Texan was released on Tuesday, but the door is open for his return.
The addition of assistant head coach Alex Gibbs should improve the Texans ground game, writes John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.
A $180,000 Mercedes belonging to San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman was engulfed in flames when police officers discovered it last Thursday.
Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey weighs in on the departure of kicker Jason Elam.
Woody Paige of the Denver Post is still looking for eggs from Easter '85, but he found the time to write about the many off-field exploits of Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall.
Pro Day News and Notes
A huge crowd turned out for the University of Arkansas Pro Day, and while all eyes may have been on Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, wide receiver Marcus Monk improved his draft stock yesterday.
28 of the 32 NFL teams turned out for the Pro Day at Wake Forest.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
49ers Guilty of Tampering
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell ruled that the San Francisco 49ers violated the NFL's anti-tampering policy and will have to forfeit a 5th round draft choice in 2008, as well as swap 2008 3rd round draft choices with the Chicago Bears.
Kevin Lynch at the Niners Insider blog writes that according to two league sources, the 49ers never tampered with Lance Briggs, and contacted Drew Rosenhaus to speak about another client of his.
Maybe they tampered, maybe they didn't. What we do know is this: Roger Goodell has made a previously "everyone does it" aspect of NFL life and turned it into an offense that can, and will, result in the loss of draft picks.
So it's very interesting this morning to hear Kansas City Chiefs head coach Herm Edwards imply that some free agent deals might have been reached before the start of free agency.
The article mentions two players the Chiefs targeted in free agency, center Jeff Faine and kicker Josh "Slave to the Businessman" Brown. Faine signed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Brown signed with the St. Louis Rams.
Edwards wisely stopped short of making any public accusations, but Goodell's ruling yesterday may have opened a can of worms that should have remained closed.
NFL News and Notes
After missing most of last year with a sternum clavicle separation, New England Patriots running back Sammy Morris is optimistic he'll be able to contribute this year.
Disgruntled New York Jets wide receiver Laveranues Coles unexpectedly showed up for the start of the team's off-season workout program yesterday.
In other disgruntled wide receiver news, Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson did not show up for the team's off-season workouts, but the team isn't concerned about it. Even though he has 273 fewer receptions than Johnson in the last three seasons, San Diego Chargers Pro Bowl "wide receiver" Kassim Osgood (and his 32 career receptions in 76 games) isn't happy, but the team has no intentions on trading him.
In idiotic wide receiver news, you just knew that Denver Bronco Brandon Marshall's pants were on fire when he said that he slipped on a McDonald's sack and put his arm through an entertainment center. Turns out, he was wrestling with family members and suffered serious injuries to his right arm that will force him to miss most of the team's off-season workout program.
The Baltimore Ravens officially re-signed linebacker Nick Greisen to a three-year contract.
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Jerry Porter is eager to shed the baggage he accumulated during his tumultuous time in Oakland.
Franchised Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth has not signed his one-year tender and will not partake in the team's off-season workout program.
Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak says the signing of Quinn Gray does not mean the team is going to trade Sage Rosenfels. (And if you think I enjoy typing the name "Sage Rosenfels", you'd be correct.)
Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham is going to coach the linebackers, as well.
Adam "Pacman" Jones will appear on the Michael Irvin Show on ESPN Radio in Dallas today.
New York Giants left guard Rich Seubert signed a contract extension that'll keep him in a Giants uniform through 2012.
Offensive lineman Jason Fabini plans on re-signing with the Washington Redskins.
Free agent linebacker Rocky Boiman signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. Boiman signing with Philly means the Indianapolis Colts have lost another free agent.
Brett Favre still counts against the Green Bay Packers salary cap because he hasn't filed his retirement paperwork with the NFL.
Minnesota Vikings center Matt Birk isn't happy with his contract and is avoiding the team's off-season workout program. Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway is looking to add bulk this off-season.
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Colletto says the team is looking to draft a running back or offensive linemen.
Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith had lunch yesterday with Darren McFadden and Felix Jones.
The Carolina Panthers had hoped to get a look at Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah, but the projected first-rounder was unable to participate in the school's Pro Day due to a sprained ankle.
Ohio State head coach/sweater enthusiast Jim Tressel has five reasons why the Atlanta Falcons (or some other team) should take Vernon Gholston.
The St. Louis Rams will be stressing injury prevention during their off-season workout program that gets underway today.
Kevin Lynch at the Niners Insider blog writes that according to two league sources, the 49ers never tampered with Lance Briggs, and contacted Drew Rosenhaus to speak about another client of his.
Maybe they tampered, maybe they didn't. What we do know is this: Roger Goodell has made a previously "everyone does it" aspect of NFL life and turned it into an offense that can, and will, result in the loss of draft picks.
So it's very interesting this morning to hear Kansas City Chiefs head coach Herm Edwards imply that some free agent deals might have been reached before the start of free agency.
The article mentions two players the Chiefs targeted in free agency, center Jeff Faine and kicker Josh "Slave to the Businessman" Brown. Faine signed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Brown signed with the St. Louis Rams.
Edwards wisely stopped short of making any public accusations, but Goodell's ruling yesterday may have opened a can of worms that should have remained closed.
NFL News and Notes
After missing most of last year with a sternum clavicle separation, New England Patriots running back Sammy Morris is optimistic he'll be able to contribute this year.
Disgruntled New York Jets wide receiver Laveranues Coles unexpectedly showed up for the start of the team's off-season workout program yesterday.
In other disgruntled wide receiver news, Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson did not show up for the team's off-season workouts, but the team isn't concerned about it. Even though he has 273 fewer receptions than Johnson in the last three seasons, San Diego Chargers Pro Bowl "wide receiver" Kassim Osgood (and his 32 career receptions in 76 games) isn't happy, but the team has no intentions on trading him.
In idiotic wide receiver news, you just knew that Denver Bronco Brandon Marshall's pants were on fire when he said that he slipped on a McDonald's sack and put his arm through an entertainment center. Turns out, he was wrestling with family members and suffered serious injuries to his right arm that will force him to miss most of the team's off-season workout program.
The Baltimore Ravens officially re-signed linebacker Nick Greisen to a three-year contract.
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Jerry Porter is eager to shed the baggage he accumulated during his tumultuous time in Oakland.
Franchised Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth has not signed his one-year tender and will not partake in the team's off-season workout program.
Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak says the signing of Quinn Gray does not mean the team is going to trade Sage Rosenfels. (And if you think I enjoy typing the name "Sage Rosenfels", you'd be correct.)
Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham is going to coach the linebackers, as well.
Adam "Pacman" Jones will appear on the Michael Irvin Show on ESPN Radio in Dallas today.
New York Giants left guard Rich Seubert signed a contract extension that'll keep him in a Giants uniform through 2012.
Offensive lineman Jason Fabini plans on re-signing with the Washington Redskins.
Free agent linebacker Rocky Boiman signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. Boiman signing with Philly means the Indianapolis Colts have lost another free agent.
Brett Favre still counts against the Green Bay Packers salary cap because he hasn't filed his retirement paperwork with the NFL.
Minnesota Vikings center Matt Birk isn't happy with his contract and is avoiding the team's off-season workout program. Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway is looking to add bulk this off-season.
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Colletto says the team is looking to draft a running back or offensive linemen.
Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith had lunch yesterday with Darren McFadden and Felix Jones.
The Carolina Panthers had hoped to get a look at Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah, but the projected first-rounder was unable to participate in the school's Pro Day due to a sprained ankle.
Ohio State head coach/sweater enthusiast Jim Tressel has five reasons why the Atlanta Falcons (or some other team) should take Vernon Gholston.
The St. Louis Rams will be stressing injury prevention during their off-season workout program that gets underway today.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Patriots Scout QB, Belichick Scouts Tight End
Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe reports that the New England Patriots sent a "high-ranking" member of their coaching staff to conduct a private workout with University of San Diego quarterback Josh Johnson.
According to NFLDraftScout.com, Johnson is the 6th-ranked quarterback in next month's draft.
Meanwhile, Bill Belichick was in Florida scouting tight ends.
According to NFLDraftScout.com, Johnson is the 6th-ranked quarterback in next month's draft.
Meanwhile, Bill Belichick was in Florida scouting tight ends.
NFL News and Notes - March 24th, 2008
I trust you all managed to survive a day without this blog, but a day to re-charge the batteries was sorely needed and I figured a Sunday/holiday would be the most opportune time to do so.
It was a fairly slow news day on Sunday, so the links this morning are sparse.
NFL News and Notes
Pete Dougherty of the Green Bay Press-Gazette writes that only two Hall of Fame quarterbacks have directly followed a Hall of Fame quarterback for the same team.
Steve Schrader of the Detroit Free Press translates some recent quotes from members of the Detroit Lions.
Jon Gruden rarely sees a tight end he couldn't use, writes Stephen Holder.
Robert Meachem, the New Orleans Saints first-round pick in 2007, is out to prove he isn't a bust.
Atlanta Falcons middle linebacker Keith Brooking spoke to Steve Wyche about the team's off-season.
Defensive end Chris Long, offensive tackle Jake Long, linebacker Vernon Gholston, running back Darren McFadden and defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey will visit with the St. Louis Rams in April.
Former Cleveland Browns running back William Green is attempting an NFL comeback.
Newly signed tight end Ben Utecht gives the Cincinnati Bengals a pass receiving threat at the position.
Free agent quarterback Quinn Gray has signed a one-year deal with the Houston Texans.
Matt Prater is the early favorite to win the Denver Broncos kicking job.
Arrowhead Stadium is one of the few NFL stadiums that allow smoking in concourses and concession stands.
It was a fairly slow news day on Sunday, so the links this morning are sparse.
NFL News and Notes
Pete Dougherty of the Green Bay Press-Gazette writes that only two Hall of Fame quarterbacks have directly followed a Hall of Fame quarterback for the same team.
Steve Schrader of the Detroit Free Press translates some recent quotes from members of the Detroit Lions.
Jon Gruden rarely sees a tight end he couldn't use, writes Stephen Holder.
Robert Meachem, the New Orleans Saints first-round pick in 2007, is out to prove he isn't a bust.
Atlanta Falcons middle linebacker Keith Brooking spoke to Steve Wyche about the team's off-season.
Defensive end Chris Long, offensive tackle Jake Long, linebacker Vernon Gholston, running back Darren McFadden and defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey will visit with the St. Louis Rams in April.
Former Cleveland Browns running back William Green is attempting an NFL comeback.
Newly signed tight end Ben Utecht gives the Cincinnati Bengals a pass receiving threat at the position.
Free agent quarterback Quinn Gray has signed a one-year deal with the Houston Texans.
Matt Prater is the early favorite to win the Denver Broncos kicking job.
Arrowhead Stadium is one of the few NFL stadiums that allow smoking in concourses and concession stands.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Tatupu to be a "Seahawk For Life"
Seattle Seahawks Pro Bowl middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu couldn't envision himself playing in any another uniform. Now that he's signed a 6-year contract extension worth $42 million dollars, he'll never have to.
The deal keeps Tatupu under contract with the Seahawks until 2015, and he took far less money than he could have received if he were to hit the free agent market after the 2009 season.
"Winning is more important to me," Tatupu said. "We're going in the right direction here. If it costs a couple bucks, whatever. I'm going to be more than taken care of. I'm thrilled to be here."
After getting a big contract, every player defers to the old cliche that "winning is important" to them. Heck, even Josh "I'm not going to be a slave to the businessman" Brown said winning was more important to him after leaving the Seahawks (who have won 4 straight NFC West titles) to sign with the 3-13 St. Louis Rams a few weeks ago.
"Winning is important to me" may be a throwaway line straight out the Professional Athlete's Handbook, but the difference with Lofa Tatupu is that he's actually putting his money where his mouth is.
NFL News and Notes
New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss was honored for his work with youth-based charities in West Virginia on Friday.
"I don't need the pat on the back," Moss said. "The kids do. That's what really got me caught up and emotional, because all I could really think about was growing up and not really having access to anything and now that I have that opportunity to give back -- maybe with my time, a few words, an autograph, a hug, whatever it may be -- I just want people to know that I'm sincere.
"I want you to know that what I'm going to continue to do for the state of West Virginia is all coming from my heart and nowhere else."
Joe Buck's mock disgust was unavailable for comment.
When the Pittsburgh Steelers released wide receiver Cedrick Wilson, they cleared up $2 million in salary cap room.
The Cleveland Browns signed linebacker Shantee Orr to a one-year contract.
Restricted free agent tight end Ben Utecht is officially a Cincinnati Bengal.
The top priority in the draft for the Baltimore Ravens appears to be cornerback, writes Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun.
After deciding not to match the offer sheet to Ben Utecht, the Indianapolis Colts are suddenly thin at the tight end position.
Prices for New York Giants tickets will increase by an average of $7.01 in 2008.
Green Bay Packers safety Atari Bigsby, an "exclusive rights free agent", has signed his one-year offer of $445,000.
The Minnesota Vikings are one of four teams who are expected to meet with North Carolina defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer.
Are you ready to concede that the Detroit Lions blew it last year when they drafted Calvin Johnson?, Drew Sharp asks.
The Chicago Bears aren't hiding their interest in Tulane running back Matt Forte.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may have overpaid for center Jeff Faine, but it sounds like he's exactly what the team needed.
New Orleans Saints quarterback Mark Brunell knew he'd be wrapping up his career in a supporting role.
The Atlanta Falcons and 38-year old kicker Jason Elam agreed to a 4-year, $9 million dollar contract that includes $3.3 million in guaranteed money. Elam is an Atlanta-area native.
The San Francisco 49ers remain interested in free agent linebacker Takeo Spikes.
St. Louis Rams VP of Personnel Billy Devaney answered some draft-related questions from Bernie Miklasz on Team 1380 radio yesterday.
Pro Day News and Notes
Vanderbilt offensive tackle prospect Chris Williams measured in at 6-6 1/4 and 320 pounds before being put through position drills by Joe Bugel. Also during the Vanderbilt Pro Day, wide receiver Earl Bennett caught all 22 passes thrown to him by former Commodores quarterback Jay Cutler.
The deal keeps Tatupu under contract with the Seahawks until 2015, and he took far less money than he could have received if he were to hit the free agent market after the 2009 season.
"Winning is more important to me," Tatupu said. "We're going in the right direction here. If it costs a couple bucks, whatever. I'm going to be more than taken care of. I'm thrilled to be here."
After getting a big contract, every player defers to the old cliche that "winning is important" to them. Heck, even Josh "I'm not going to be a slave to the businessman" Brown said winning was more important to him after leaving the Seahawks (who have won 4 straight NFC West titles) to sign with the 3-13 St. Louis Rams a few weeks ago.
"Winning is important to me" may be a throwaway line straight out the Professional Athlete's Handbook, but the difference with Lofa Tatupu is that he's actually putting his money where his mouth is.
NFL News and Notes
New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss was honored for his work with youth-based charities in West Virginia on Friday.
"I don't need the pat on the back," Moss said. "The kids do. That's what really got me caught up and emotional, because all I could really think about was growing up and not really having access to anything and now that I have that opportunity to give back -- maybe with my time, a few words, an autograph, a hug, whatever it may be -- I just want people to know that I'm sincere.
"I want you to know that what I'm going to continue to do for the state of West Virginia is all coming from my heart and nowhere else."
Joe Buck's mock disgust was unavailable for comment.
When the Pittsburgh Steelers released wide receiver Cedrick Wilson, they cleared up $2 million in salary cap room.
The Cleveland Browns signed linebacker Shantee Orr to a one-year contract.
Restricted free agent tight end Ben Utecht is officially a Cincinnati Bengal.
The top priority in the draft for the Baltimore Ravens appears to be cornerback, writes Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun.
After deciding not to match the offer sheet to Ben Utecht, the Indianapolis Colts are suddenly thin at the tight end position.
Prices for New York Giants tickets will increase by an average of $7.01 in 2008.
Green Bay Packers safety Atari Bigsby, an "exclusive rights free agent", has signed his one-year offer of $445,000.
The Minnesota Vikings are one of four teams who are expected to meet with North Carolina defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer.
Are you ready to concede that the Detroit Lions blew it last year when they drafted Calvin Johnson?, Drew Sharp asks.
The Chicago Bears aren't hiding their interest in Tulane running back Matt Forte.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may have overpaid for center Jeff Faine, but it sounds like he's exactly what the team needed.
New Orleans Saints quarterback Mark Brunell knew he'd be wrapping up his career in a supporting role.
The Atlanta Falcons and 38-year old kicker Jason Elam agreed to a 4-year, $9 million dollar contract that includes $3.3 million in guaranteed money. Elam is an Atlanta-area native.
The San Francisco 49ers remain interested in free agent linebacker Takeo Spikes.
St. Louis Rams VP of Personnel Billy Devaney answered some draft-related questions from Bernie Miklasz on Team 1380 radio yesterday.
Pro Day News and Notes
Vanderbilt offensive tackle prospect Chris Williams measured in at 6-6 1/4 and 320 pounds before being put through position drills by Joe Bugel. Also during the Vanderbilt Pro Day, wide receiver Earl Bennett caught all 22 passes thrown to him by former Commodores quarterback Jay Cutler.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Seahawks Sign Lofa Tatupu to 6-year, $40M Contract
ESPN.com's John Clayton is reporting that the Seattle Seahawks have signed middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu to a six-year contract extension worth an estimated $40 million dollars.
The contract contains more than $16 million dollars in guarantees, and is an extension onto the two remaining years Tatupu has on his original contract, essentially making Tatupu a "Seahawk for life".
Tatupu has played three seasons in the NFL, and has finished each and every one of them with a trip to the Pro Bowl.
The contract contains more than $16 million dollars in guarantees, and is an extension onto the two remaining years Tatupu has on his original contract, essentially making Tatupu a "Seahawk for life".
Tatupu has played three seasons in the NFL, and has finished each and every one of them with a trip to the Pro Bowl.
Raiders Sign Hall to 7-year, $70M Contract
A new contract for DeAngelo Hall was all that was standing in the way of a trade that would send Hall to the Oakland Raiders and pair of picks in next month's draft to the rebuilding Atlanta Falcons.
Yesterday, the Raiders and Hall agreed in principle on a 7-year contract that is believed to be worth as much as $70 million dollars, including nearly $25 million in guarantees.
Raiders head coach (for now) Lane Kiffin said that this signing means Oakland has "one of the most talented defenses in the league". Considering the money Oakland paid Hall, Tommie Kelly and Nnamdi Asomugha (arguably the only one whose play warrants it) this off-season, it had better be one of the NFL's top units.
NFL News and Notes
Veteran free agent cornerback Fernando Bryant signed a one-year deal with the New England Patriots on Thursday.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick met with South Florida cornerbacks Mike Jenkins and Trae Williams yesterday.
Oakland Raiders restricted free agent cornerback Chris Carr met with the Buffalo Bills yesterday. With Hall and Nnamdi Asomugha earning nearly $20 million this year, what are the chances the Raiders match any offer on Carr? On second thought, don't answer that one.
Even with a 2007 second-round pick on the roster (John Beck), the Miami Dolphins are looking hard at the quarterback position in the 2008 draft. They've held a private meeting with Boston College's Matt Ryan, who many draftniks predict could be the #1 overall pick in the draft. The Dolphins will also hold a private workout with Michigan quarterback Chad Henne next Tuesday in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Atlanta, Seattle and Tampa Bay will also work out Henne next week.
The Pittsburgh Steelers raised some ticket prices as much as 21%.
After immediately releasing Cedrick Wilson, and not doing the same with Pro Bowl linebacker James Harrison, Steelers chairman Dan Rooney had to clarify his comments on domestic abuse.
Free agents Clark Haggans and Bennie Sapp left Cleveland without contracts.
The Cincinnati Bengals finally signed linebacker Brandon Johnson.
Former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Quinn Gray will visit the Houston Texans this weekend.
The Tennessee Titans off-season workout program gets underway on Monday.
San Diego Chargers center Nick Hardwick had foot surgery last week and could miss up to 6 months, including the start of the 2008 regular season.
Denver Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan is building a 34,927-square foot home that includes a bowling alley, a poker room, a video-golf room, and a racquetball court. (Ostentatious much?)
The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly held discussions about acquiring Adam "Pacman" Jones from the Titans.
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning would like you to get more exercise.
Punter Derrick Frost received a one-year contract from the Washington Redskins for the veteran minimum.
The Green Bay Packers re-signed exclusive rights free agents Tory Humphrey and John Kuhn.
Veteran safety Michael Boulware signed with the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday.
Detroit Lions running back Tatum Bell wants 1,300 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns in 2008.
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Marques Colston is focusing on getting healthy for 2008, and not on a new contract.
The Carolina Panthers signed free agent safety Terrence Holt on Thursday. Panthers offensive tackle Jordan Gross signed his one-year franchise tender, as well.
For Terence Moore of the Atlanta Journal Constitution, who the Falcons should select with the third overall pick is a no-brainer.
Kent Somer of The Arizona Republic reports that one of the snags holding up the Larry Fitzgerald contract is a clause that states that if the Cardinals place the franchise tag on Fitzgerald after the final year of the deal, the tag will be worth $23 million dollars.
The St. Louis Rams signed free agent cornerback David Macklin and re-signed center Brett Romberg. Both agreed to one-year deals.
Pro Day News and Notes
At least 25 teams are expected to be in attendance for Vanderbilt University's Pro Day today, where they'll get an up-close look at offensive tackle Chris Williams and wide receiver Earl Bennett.
Yesterday, the Raiders and Hall agreed in principle on a 7-year contract that is believed to be worth as much as $70 million dollars, including nearly $25 million in guarantees.
Raiders head coach (for now) Lane Kiffin said that this signing means Oakland has "one of the most talented defenses in the league". Considering the money Oakland paid Hall, Tommie Kelly and Nnamdi Asomugha (arguably the only one whose play warrants it) this off-season, it had better be one of the NFL's top units.
NFL News and Notes
Veteran free agent cornerback Fernando Bryant signed a one-year deal with the New England Patriots on Thursday.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick met with South Florida cornerbacks Mike Jenkins and Trae Williams yesterday.
Oakland Raiders restricted free agent cornerback Chris Carr met with the Buffalo Bills yesterday. With Hall and Nnamdi Asomugha earning nearly $20 million this year, what are the chances the Raiders match any offer on Carr? On second thought, don't answer that one.
Even with a 2007 second-round pick on the roster (John Beck), the Miami Dolphins are looking hard at the quarterback position in the 2008 draft. They've held a private meeting with Boston College's Matt Ryan, who many draftniks predict could be the #1 overall pick in the draft. The Dolphins will also hold a private workout with Michigan quarterback Chad Henne next Tuesday in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Atlanta, Seattle and Tampa Bay will also work out Henne next week.
The Pittsburgh Steelers raised some ticket prices as much as 21%.
After immediately releasing Cedrick Wilson, and not doing the same with Pro Bowl linebacker James Harrison, Steelers chairman Dan Rooney had to clarify his comments on domestic abuse.
Free agents Clark Haggans and Bennie Sapp left Cleveland without contracts.
The Cincinnati Bengals finally signed linebacker Brandon Johnson.
Former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Quinn Gray will visit the Houston Texans this weekend.
The Tennessee Titans off-season workout program gets underway on Monday.
San Diego Chargers center Nick Hardwick had foot surgery last week and could miss up to 6 months, including the start of the 2008 regular season.
Denver Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan is building a 34,927-square foot home that includes a bowling alley, a poker room, a video-golf room, and a racquetball court. (Ostentatious much?)
The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly held discussions about acquiring Adam "Pacman" Jones from the Titans.
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning would like you to get more exercise.
Punter Derrick Frost received a one-year contract from the Washington Redskins for the veteran minimum.
The Green Bay Packers re-signed exclusive rights free agents Tory Humphrey and John Kuhn.
Veteran safety Michael Boulware signed with the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday.
Detroit Lions running back Tatum Bell wants 1,300 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns in 2008.
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Marques Colston is focusing on getting healthy for 2008, and not on a new contract.
The Carolina Panthers signed free agent safety Terrence Holt on Thursday. Panthers offensive tackle Jordan Gross signed his one-year franchise tender, as well.
For Terence Moore of the Atlanta Journal Constitution, who the Falcons should select with the third overall pick is a no-brainer.
Kent Somer of The Arizona Republic reports that one of the snags holding up the Larry Fitzgerald contract is a clause that states that if the Cardinals place the franchise tag on Fitzgerald after the final year of the deal, the tag will be worth $23 million dollars.
The St. Louis Rams signed free agent cornerback David Macklin and re-signed center Brett Romberg. Both agreed to one-year deals.
Pro Day News and Notes
At least 25 teams are expected to be in attendance for Vanderbilt University's Pro Day today, where they'll get an up-close look at offensive tackle Chris Williams and wide receiver Earl Bennett.