Jenny Vrentas of the Newark Star-Ledger reported this morning that New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress will surrender to the New York Police Department, possibly as early as Monday morning.
Attorney Benjamin Brafman is representing Burress on this matter, and he issued the following statement:
"We will make arrangements for Mr. Burress to be present when required," Brafman said. "He's not running away from this. He intends to deal with this responsibly, and we hope it works out in the end. I would ask that the public, the Giants, the media and everybody else withhold judgment. He's presumed innocent, hasn't been convicted of anything, and we have a long road ahead of us."
For illegally carrying a concealed weapon, under New York law Burress faces a mandatory sentence of 3.5 years in prison.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
NFL Week 13 GameDay Inactives Lists
Here are your official inactive lists for Week 13 of the NFL season:
San Francisco 49ers at Buffalo Bills
San Francisco: QB Jamie Martin (3rd QB), CB/KR Allen Rossum, CB Reggie Smith, S Dashon Goldson, C Cody Wallace, T Jacob Bender, WR Arnaz Battle, WR Josh Morgan
Buffalo: QB Gibran Hamdan (3rd QB), S Donte Whitner, CB Jabari Greer, LB Tedy Lehman, T Demetrius Bell, TE Robert Royal, DE Aaron Schobel, DE Copeland Bryan
Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals
Baltimore: QB Todd Bouman (3rd QB), WR Terrance Copper, WR Marcus Maxwell, CB Frank Walker, G David Hale, T Adam Terry, TE Edgar Jones, DT Lamar Divens
Cincinnati: QB Carson Palmer, CB David Jones, S Chinedu Ndukwe, DE Eric Henderson, G Evan Mathis, T Kirk Barton, T Levi Jones, DE Antwan Odom
Indianapolis Colts at Cleveland Browns
Indianapolis: S Bob Sanders, DE Brandon Foster, LB Buster Davis, C Jeff Saturday, TE Jamie Petrowski, WR Roy Hall, DT Daniel Muir, DE Curtis Johnson
Cleveland: CB Travis Daniels, S Hamza Abdullah, TE Jed Collins, LB Kris Griffin, LB Titus Brown, DT Ahyta Rubin, G Scott Young, TE Darnell Dinkins
Miami Dolphins at St. Louis Rams
Miami: QB John Beck (3rd QB), C Al Johnson, CB Jason Allen, TE Joey Haynos, T Nate Garner, DT Paul Soliai, DE Rodrique Wright, G Shawn Murphy
St. Louis: QB Brock Berlin (3rd QB), CB Tye Hill, LB Chris Draft, LB Larry Grant, C Cory Withrow, G Roy Schuening, T Anthony Davis, DE Eric Moore
New York Giants at Washington Redskins
NY Giants: K Lawrence Tynes, WR Plaxico Burress, CB Sam Madison, RB Ahmad Bradshaw, LB Jonathan Goff, T Adam Koets, DE Jerome McDougle, DT Fred Robbins
Washington: QB Colt Brennan (3rd QB), LB Marcus Washington, DT Kedric Golston, G Jason Fabini, T Chad Rinehart, DE Erasmus James, TE Fred Davis, DE Rob Jackson
New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New Orleans: QB Joey Harrington (3rd QB), CB David Pittman, RB Mike Bell, FB Mike Karney, LB Marvin Mitchell, G Jamar Nesbit, T Jermon Bushrod, WR David Patten
Tampa Bay: QB Josh Johnson (3rd QB), Brian Griese, WR Dexter Jackson, RB Noah Herron, S Donte Nicholson, LB Matt McCoy, T James Lee, DT Greg Peterson
Carolina Panthers at Green Bay Packers
Carolina: QB Matt Moore (3rd QB), CB C.J. Wilson, G Mackenzy Bernadeau, T Frank Omiyale, WR Dwayne Jarrett, WR Kenneth Moore, DT Gary Gibson, LB Adam Seward
Green Bay: QB Brian Brohm (3rd QB), LB Nick Barnett, CB Patrick Lee, Aaron Rouse, RB DeShawn Wynn, LB Danny Lansanah, T Breno Giacomini, G Allen Barbre
San Francisco 49ers at Buffalo Bills
San Francisco: QB Jamie Martin (3rd QB), CB/KR Allen Rossum, CB Reggie Smith, S Dashon Goldson, C Cody Wallace, T Jacob Bender, WR Arnaz Battle, WR Josh Morgan
Buffalo: QB Gibran Hamdan (3rd QB), S Donte Whitner, CB Jabari Greer, LB Tedy Lehman, T Demetrius Bell, TE Robert Royal, DE Aaron Schobel, DE Copeland Bryan
Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals
Baltimore: QB Todd Bouman (3rd QB), WR Terrance Copper, WR Marcus Maxwell, CB Frank Walker, G David Hale, T Adam Terry, TE Edgar Jones, DT Lamar Divens
Cincinnati: QB Carson Palmer, CB David Jones, S Chinedu Ndukwe, DE Eric Henderson, G Evan Mathis, T Kirk Barton, T Levi Jones, DE Antwan Odom
Indianapolis Colts at Cleveland Browns
Indianapolis: S Bob Sanders, DE Brandon Foster, LB Buster Davis, C Jeff Saturday, TE Jamie Petrowski, WR Roy Hall, DT Daniel Muir, DE Curtis Johnson
Cleveland: CB Travis Daniels, S Hamza Abdullah, TE Jed Collins, LB Kris Griffin, LB Titus Brown, DT Ahyta Rubin, G Scott Young, TE Darnell Dinkins
Miami Dolphins at St. Louis Rams
Miami: QB John Beck (3rd QB), C Al Johnson, CB Jason Allen, TE Joey Haynos, T Nate Garner, DT Paul Soliai, DE Rodrique Wright, G Shawn Murphy
St. Louis: QB Brock Berlin (3rd QB), CB Tye Hill, LB Chris Draft, LB Larry Grant, C Cory Withrow, G Roy Schuening, T Anthony Davis, DE Eric Moore
New York Giants at Washington Redskins
NY Giants: K Lawrence Tynes, WR Plaxico Burress, CB Sam Madison, RB Ahmad Bradshaw, LB Jonathan Goff, T Adam Koets, DE Jerome McDougle, DT Fred Robbins
Washington: QB Colt Brennan (3rd QB), LB Marcus Washington, DT Kedric Golston, G Jason Fabini, T Chad Rinehart, DE Erasmus James, TE Fred Davis, DE Rob Jackson
New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New Orleans: QB Joey Harrington (3rd QB), CB David Pittman, RB Mike Bell, FB Mike Karney, LB Marvin Mitchell, G Jamar Nesbit, T Jermon Bushrod, WR David Patten
Tampa Bay: QB Josh Johnson (3rd QB), Brian Griese, WR Dexter Jackson, RB Noah Herron, S Donte Nicholson, LB Matt McCoy, T James Lee, DT Greg Peterson
Carolina Panthers at Green Bay Packers
Carolina: QB Matt Moore (3rd QB), CB C.J. Wilson, G Mackenzy Bernadeau, T Frank Omiyale, WR Dwayne Jarrett, WR Kenneth Moore, DT Gary Gibson, LB Adam Seward
Green Bay: QB Brian Brohm (3rd QB), LB Nick Barnett, CB Patrick Lee, Aaron Rouse, RB DeShawn Wynn, LB Danny Lansanah, T Breno Giacomini, G Allen Barbre
Schefter on Favre Compensation
The NFL Network's Adam Schefter reported this morning on the conditional draft pick the New York Jets sent to the Green Bay Packers for Brett Favre.
Schefter reported that the pick has already moved from a 4th to a 3rd round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. If Favre plays in 70% of the Jets' plays, which is almost a certainty at this point, it will rise to a 2nd round draft pick.
If the Jets make the Super Bowl, and Favre plays in 80% of the team's offensive plays, the Jets' 1st round pick will be shipped to Green Bay.
So there you have it, Cheeseheads. You're now rooting for the Jets to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.
Wouldn't it be something if it were a Jets-Packers Super Bowl?
Schefter reported that the pick has already moved from a 4th to a 3rd round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. If Favre plays in 70% of the Jets' plays, which is almost a certainty at this point, it will rise to a 2nd round draft pick.
If the Jets make the Super Bowl, and Favre plays in 80% of the team's offensive plays, the Jets' 1st round pick will be shipped to Green Bay.
So there you have it, Cheeseheads. You're now rooting for the Jets to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.
Wouldn't it be something if it were a Jets-Packers Super Bowl?
Bucs-Saints to Play in Tornado Watch
Scott Hanson of the NFL Network is reporting that there's a tornado watch in Hillsborough County, Florida until 5pm ET, so today's New Orleans Saints-Tampa Bay Buccaneers game at Raymond James Stadium will played with one eye towards the sky.
Hey, what's an NFL season without some inclement weather in late November? You just don't expect it in Tampa, Florida.
Hey, what's an NFL season without some inclement weather in late November? You just don't expect it in Tampa, Florida.
David Givens' Painful Odyssey
Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe has an excellent article this morning which chronicles former New England Patriots and Tennessee Titans wide receiver David Givens road from high-priced free agent to a guy simply lucky to be walking two years later.
"Givens was running a pass pattern in a game against the Baltimore Ravens that afternoon, as he had done thousands of times over his career, whether it was at Notre Dame, with the Patriots, or with the Titans.
Here in New England, I heard a lot of talk about how "stupid" Givens was for leaving the Patriots. Sadly, I heard people laugh and say "See?" when he got hurt. (Though I doubt they understood the severity of his injuries.)
What these people don't understand is that for a 7th round draft like Givens, while winning may be nice, the cold reality is that the NFL is very much a business and he's only going to have one shot at cashing in.
If this were Major League Baseball or the NBA, where contracts are guaranteed, it would be different. The only thing guaranteed to Givens was the $8 million dollar signing bonus, which is nowhere near what the Patriots were willing to offer him.
"Givens was running a pass pattern in a game against the Baltimore Ravens that afternoon, as he had done thousands of times over his career, whether it was at Notre Dame, with the Patriots, or with the Titans.
As he exploded out of his cut, the inner workings of his left knee had the equivalent of a three-car highway pileup. The anterior cruciate ligament was torn. So was the meniscus - medial and lateral. The femur behind the kneecap broke off and shattered, as the knee shifted in directions it wasn't designed to go.
Four doctors turned him away for surgery because of the severity of the injury, and by the time Givens traveled to Birmingham, Ala., to see noted orthopedic surgeon James Andrews, the words he was hearing were scary."
Givens' tale is why I don't bemoan an NFL player doing whatever he needs to do when he becomes a free agent. For starters, a player needs to exceed the average lifespan of an NFL career just to hit the open market. So if a player has done something to make himself more marketable, he has an obligation to himself to take advantage of it.Here in New England, I heard a lot of talk about how "stupid" Givens was for leaving the Patriots. Sadly, I heard people laugh and say "See?" when he got hurt. (Though I doubt they understood the severity of his injuries.)
What these people don't understand is that for a 7th round draft like Givens, while winning may be nice, the cold reality is that the NFL is very much a business and he's only going to have one shot at cashing in.
If this were Major League Baseball or the NBA, where contracts are guaranteed, it would be different. The only thing guaranteed to Givens was the $8 million dollar signing bonus, which is nowhere near what the Patriots were willing to offer him.
Giants' Burress and Pierce to Face Criminal Charges
New York mayor Michael Bloomberg instituted some very strict gun laws, so New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress will face felony gun charges because he failed to have a carry permit for the handgun that he accidentally shot himself with. Carrying an illegal concealed weapon comes with a mandatory 3.5 year prison term, and Burress could face up to 5 years in prison, if convicted.
This morning, Ralph Vacciano reports that Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce was with Burress when he shot himself on Friday night, and ever the doting teammate, took and stashed Burress' gun in New Jersey.
A full report by multiple reporters at the New York Daily News can be read here. After reading their account, I can't a scenario Giants would allow Burress to suit up for their team when his hamstring and bullet wound heals.
This morning, Ralph Vacciano reports that Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce was with Burress when he shot himself on Friday night, and ever the doting teammate, took and stashed Burress' gun in New Jersey.
A full report by multiple reporters at the New York Daily News can be read here. After reading their account, I can't a scenario Giants would allow Burress to suit up for their team when his hamstring and bullet wound heals.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Burress' Incident Could Lead to Further Discipline
Let's recap the Plaxico Burress situation:
FOXSports.com's Jay Glazer reports that Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg last night.
ESPN's John Clayton reports that the accidental shooting took place in a nightclub.
Yahoo!Sports.com's Jason Cole reports that Burress was "grazed" by the bullet, and should be back in two weeks.
Or will he?
I'm only delving into this issue because Burress' was "grazed" by the bullet and will reportedly make a full and speedy recovery, but isn't Burress an ideal candidate for a league-issued vacation?
If Clayton's report is true, and JC is the best NFL reporter there is, and the shooting incident took place in a nightclub, Burress stands to face serious discipline under the NFL's Personal Conduct policy. Even if he's the person shot, the league won't take kindly to an NFL player being involved in a nightclub shooting.
And if the NFL doesn't act, perhaps the Giants should.
Given Burress' past transgressions, which included being suspended for a game this season and tens of thousands of dollars in fines, his involvement in nightclub shooting, even if he accidentally shot himself, has him in line for one of those four-game "conduct detrimental to the team" suspensions that ultimately facilitated Terrell Owens' departure from Philadelphia.
The Giants have already shown that they can win without Burress, and while he makes them even more dangerous, and caught the biggest pass in the franchise's recent history, Burress' off-field behavior may no longer be worth his on-field talent.
FOXSports.com's Jay Glazer reports that Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg last night.
ESPN's John Clayton reports that the accidental shooting took place in a nightclub.
Yahoo!Sports.com's Jason Cole reports that Burress was "grazed" by the bullet, and should be back in two weeks.
Or will he?
I'm only delving into this issue because Burress' was "grazed" by the bullet and will reportedly make a full and speedy recovery, but isn't Burress an ideal candidate for a league-issued vacation?
If Clayton's report is true, and JC is the best NFL reporter there is, and the shooting incident took place in a nightclub, Burress stands to face serious discipline under the NFL's Personal Conduct policy. Even if he's the person shot, the league won't take kindly to an NFL player being involved in a nightclub shooting.
And if the NFL doesn't act, perhaps the Giants should.
Given Burress' past transgressions, which included being suspended for a game this season and tens of thousands of dollars in fines, his involvement in nightclub shooting, even if he accidentally shot himself, has him in line for one of those four-game "conduct detrimental to the team" suspensions that ultimately facilitated Terrell Owens' departure from Philadelphia.
The Giants have already shown that they can win without Burress, and while he makes them even more dangerous, and caught the biggest pass in the franchise's recent history, Burress' off-field behavior may no longer be worth his on-field talent.
Tampa Tribune's Bucs Report is Doing the Lord's Work
I'm way late to the party here, but it needs to be mentioned that the Tampa Tribune's "Bucs Report" blog is doing the Lord's work.
And by that, I mean they're posting a picture of a Buccaneers cheerleader each week.
This week's entry: Ashton Rel.
Her name is reminiscent of a European sports car that is way out of the everyman's price range, but hey, she can rest her arm on top of her head while smiling.
Ahoy, matey!
And by that, I mean they're posting a picture of a Buccaneers cheerleader each week.
This week's entry: Ashton Rel.
Her name is reminiscent of a European sports car that is way out of the everyman's price range, but hey, she can rest her arm on top of her head while smiling.
Ahoy, matey!
Cowboys Place Kyle Kosier on IR; Sign Linebacker
Dallas Cowboys left guard Kyle Kosier has missed all but three games this season with a foot injury, and today the Cowboys placed him on injured reserve.
Kosier is the third Cowboy starter to be placed on that season-ending list.
To take Kosier's place on the roster, Dallas signed rookie linebacker Steve Octavien off the Washington Redskins practice squad. Octavien was an undrafted free agent, originally signed by the Kansas City Chiefs and was added to the Redskins' practice squad a little over a week ago.
Per the NFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement, Octavien will count against the Cowboys' 53-man roster for the next three weeks.
Kosier is the third Cowboy starter to be placed on that season-ending list.
To take Kosier's place on the roster, Dallas signed rookie linebacker Steve Octavien off the Washington Redskins practice squad. Octavien was an undrafted free agent, originally signed by the Kansas City Chiefs and was added to the Redskins' practice squad a little over a week ago.
Per the NFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement, Octavien will count against the Cowboys' 53-man roster for the next three weeks.
Update on Plaxico Burress Shooting
Jason Cole of Yahoo! Sports, who co-wrote Plaxico Burress' book, is reporting that Burress was "grazed" by a bullet accidentally fired from his own gun.
Cole's source said that Burress will play again this season and that he'll only miss a couple of weeks of action.
Cole's source said that Burress will play again this season and that he'll only miss a couple of weeks of action.
49ers Release Ahmad Brooks
When Ahmad Brooks was matriculating at the University of Virginia, his playmaking ability gave him the look of a player who would be chosen high in the NFL Draft.
Instead, he got into trouble and was kicked off the team by Al Groh.
Brooks was chosen in the 2006 supplemental draft by the Cincinnati Bengals, who used a 3rd round pick to select him.
They released him before the start of the 2008 season.
Brooks signed with the San Francisco 49ers, who envisioned Brooks as a potential play-maker to play alongside Patrick Willis and Manny Lawson. That plan never materialized, and today the 49ers released Brooks to make room for Chris Hannon, a backup wide receiver.
After playing in 13 games for Cincinnati (including 7 starts), Brooks never played a down for the 49ers. In his career, Brooks has 37 tackles, including a pair of sacks. At 24, Brooks' NFL career is far from over. There's simply too much raw ability there to be done at his age.
Instead, he got into trouble and was kicked off the team by Al Groh.
Brooks was chosen in the 2006 supplemental draft by the Cincinnati Bengals, who used a 3rd round pick to select him.
They released him before the start of the 2008 season.
Brooks signed with the San Francisco 49ers, who envisioned Brooks as a potential play-maker to play alongside Patrick Willis and Manny Lawson. That plan never materialized, and today the 49ers released Brooks to make room for Chris Hannon, a backup wide receiver.
After playing in 13 games for Cincinnati (including 7 starts), Brooks never played a down for the 49ers. In his career, Brooks has 37 tackles, including a pair of sacks. At 24, Brooks' NFL career is far from over. There's simply too much raw ability there to be done at his age.
NFL Fines from Week 12
Washington Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss was fined $5,000.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers right tackle Jeremy Trueblood was fined $7,500 for grabbing an opponent's facemask after the whistle.
New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light and Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder were fined $15,000 apiece for their fracas from last Sunday.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers right tackle Jeremy Trueblood was fined $7,500 for grabbing an opponent's facemask after the whistle.
New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light and Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder were fined $15,000 apiece for their fracas from last Sunday.
Redskins' Moss Fined $5,000
Washington Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss was fined $5,000 for punching Seattle Seahawks cornerback Josh Wilson last Sunday.
Moss luckily avoided ejection and had 4 catches for 74 yards in the game. Moss also drew a key pass interference penalty that led to the Redskins' first touchdown.
Moss luckily avoided ejection and had 4 catches for 74 yards in the game. Moss also drew a key pass interference penalty that led to the Redskins' first touchdown.
"Mr. Irrelevant" to Get First NFL Start
When the NFL Draft creeps into it's final hour, there's some debate about whether or not it's better to have your name called or to go undrafted and sign with a team of your choosing.
For the final guy chosen, there's also the stigma of being named "Mr. Irrelevant".
In 2008, "Mr. Irrelevant" was University of Idaho linebacker David Vobora, who was chosen 252nd overall by the St. Louis Rams.
Vobora, who spent the first two months of the season on the Rams' practice squad, will make his first NFL start at middle linebacker when the Rams face the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
"It's been a dream come true to get to this point, but there's no complacency," Vobora said. "I always want more, and this is a good opportunity to get in and contribute and show, 'Hey, this is what I can do; this is what I bring to the table.'"
Recent "Mr. Irrelevants", who drafted them, and where they are today:
2008 - LB, David Vobora, Idaho - St. Louis (Starting middle linebacker for Rams)
2007 - CB, Ramzee Robinson, Alabama - Detroit (Backup defensive back for Lions)
2006 - WR, Kevin McMahan, Maine - Oakland (Currently not on an NFL roster. Most recently with KC, but has spent time with Indianapolis, as well)
2005 - TE, Andy Stokes, William Penn - New England (Currently not on an NFL roster. Spent time with Arizona and Seattle in the off-season)
2004 - LB, Andre Sommersell - Oakland (Currently not on an NFL roster. Played for Edmonton of the Canadian Football League in 2006.)
2003 - WR, Ryan Hoag, Gustavus Adolphus (Currently not on an NFL roster. Was one of the final cuts in Jacksonville's training camp this season, and has also played for the New York Giants, Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings and Edmonton of the CFL.)
2002 - DT, Ahmad Miller, UNLV - Houston (Currently not on an NFL roster. Spent time on the New York Giants practice squad.)
2001 - TE, Tevita Ofahengaue, BYU - Arizona (Currently not on an NFL roster. Spent time on the Jacksonville Jaguars practice squad.)
2000 - S, Mike Green, Northwestern State - Chicago - (Backup safety for the Washington Redskins. Was with the Bears from 2000-05 and spent 2006-07 with the Seattle Seahawks.)
For the final guy chosen, there's also the stigma of being named "Mr. Irrelevant".
In 2008, "Mr. Irrelevant" was University of Idaho linebacker David Vobora, who was chosen 252nd overall by the St. Louis Rams.
Vobora, who spent the first two months of the season on the Rams' practice squad, will make his first NFL start at middle linebacker when the Rams face the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
"It's been a dream come true to get to this point, but there's no complacency," Vobora said. "I always want more, and this is a good opportunity to get in and contribute and show, 'Hey, this is what I can do; this is what I bring to the table.'"
Recent "Mr. Irrelevants", who drafted them, and where they are today:
2008 - LB, David Vobora, Idaho - St. Louis (Starting middle linebacker for Rams)
2007 - CB, Ramzee Robinson, Alabama - Detroit (Backup defensive back for Lions)
2006 - WR, Kevin McMahan, Maine - Oakland (Currently not on an NFL roster. Most recently with KC, but has spent time with Indianapolis, as well)
2005 - TE, Andy Stokes, William Penn - New England (Currently not on an NFL roster. Spent time with Arizona and Seattle in the off-season)
2004 - LB, Andre Sommersell - Oakland (Currently not on an NFL roster. Played for Edmonton of the Canadian Football League in 2006.)
2003 - WR, Ryan Hoag, Gustavus Adolphus (Currently not on an NFL roster. Was one of the final cuts in Jacksonville's training camp this season, and has also played for the New York Giants, Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings and Edmonton of the CFL.)
2002 - DT, Ahmad Miller, UNLV - Houston (Currently not on an NFL roster. Spent time on the New York Giants practice squad.)
2001 - TE, Tevita Ofahengaue, BYU - Arizona (Currently not on an NFL roster. Spent time on the Jacksonville Jaguars practice squad.)
2000 - S, Mike Green, Northwestern State - Chicago - (Backup safety for the Washington Redskins. Was with the Bears from 2000-05 and spent 2006-07 with the Seattle Seahawks.)
Plaxico Burress Accidentally Shoots Self in Leg
FOXSports.com's Jay Glazer cites multiple sources in reporting that New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress accidentally shot himself in the leg last night.
The injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, but Burress spent the night in a hospital. Burress had already been ruled out of Sunday's game against Washington with a hamstring injury.
ESPN.com's John Clayton is reporting that the incident took place at a nightclub.
Tom Coughlin and Jerry Reese are undoubtedly thrilled to have to answer questions about their star receiver getting shot in the leg.
The injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, but Burress spent the night in a hospital. Burress had already been ruled out of Sunday's game against Washington with a hamstring injury.
ESPN.com's John Clayton is reporting that the incident took place at a nightclub.
Tom Coughlin and Jerry Reese are undoubtedly thrilled to have to answer questions about their star receiver getting shot in the leg.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Friend of Jaguars Wideout Killed Outside Nightclub
Less than three months after Jacksonville Jaguars offensive tackle Richard Collier's life nearly came to an end after being shot multiple times after leaving a Jacksonville-area nightclub, another Jaguar was at the scene of a senseless crime.
This time, someone actually died.
Mike Florio at Pro Football Talk has cited a since removed blog item in the Orlando Sentinel that reported Jaguars wide receiver Mike Walker's friend was stabbed and killed outside an Orlando nightclub earlier this morning.
Walker was present and was excused from practice today.
This time, someone actually died.
Mike Florio at Pro Football Talk has cited a since removed blog item in the Orlando Sentinel that reported Jaguars wide receiver Mike Walker's friend was stabbed and killed outside an Orlando nightclub earlier this morning.
Walker was present and was excused from practice today.
Panthers Extend Chris Gamble
Carolina Panthers cornerback Chris Gamble has agreed to a massive six-year contract extension worth in excess of $50 million dollars.
Gamble, 25, is in his 5th season in the NFL and was scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent after the season.
"I wanted to be with Carolina. I didn't want to be with any other team," said Gamble. "I like the organization, the coaching staff, my teammates and the fans. I wanted to get it out of the way. ... I just feel very comfortable and welcome here. I just love it here."
KDVR Fox 31 in Denver, Colorado reports that the maximum value of Gamble's contract is $54.55 million dollars, with $23 million dollars of the deal guaranteed. Details of the agreement have not been released, but when they are, we'll bring 'em to you.
In his 5-year career, Gamble has missed just three games. In 72 games, he has 327 tackles, 19 interceptions and 1 quarterback sack. He also has two career touchdowns. Gamble is well on his way towards career-highs in tackles and passes defended.
Gamble, 25, is in his 5th season in the NFL and was scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent after the season.
"I wanted to be with Carolina. I didn't want to be with any other team," said Gamble. "I like the organization, the coaching staff, my teammates and the fans. I wanted to get it out of the way. ... I just feel very comfortable and welcome here. I just love it here."
KDVR Fox 31 in Denver, Colorado reports that the maximum value of Gamble's contract is $54.55 million dollars, with $23 million dollars of the deal guaranteed. Details of the agreement have not been released, but when they are, we'll bring 'em to you.
In his 5-year career, Gamble has missed just three games. In 72 games, he has 327 tackles, 19 interceptions and 1 quarterback sack. He also has two career touchdowns. Gamble is well on his way towards career-highs in tackles and passes defended.
NFL Injury Report - NFL Week 13
The official injury reports for Week 13 are out:
Atlanta Falcons at San Diego Chargers
Atlanta
Out: T Sam Baker (hip), WR Laurent Robinson (hamstring)
Questionable: DE John Abraham (neck), LB Keith Brooking (knee), K Jason Elam (left hip), WR Brian Finneran (hamstring), CB Brent Grimes (knee, quadricep), DT Grady Jackson (knee), DT Kindal Moorehead (foot), RB Jerious Norwood (rib), T Todd Weiner (knee), WR Roddy White (back)
San Diego Chargers
Doubtful: DE Keith Grennan (fibula), FB Mike Tolbert (shoulder)
Probable: DE Luis Castillo (groin), CB Antonio Cromartie (hip), CB Cletis Gordon (knee), LB Brandon Siler (foot)
Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals
Baltimore
Questionable: WR Mark Clayton (back), WR Terrance Copper (neck), G David Hale (ankle), CB Samari Rolle (thigh), T Adam Terry (head)
Probable: T Willie Anderson (foot, ankle), DT Lamar Divens (shoulder), T Jared Gaither (shoulder), TE Todd Heap (illness), WR Derrick Mason (shoulder), RB Le'Ron McClain (thigh), RB Lorenzo Neal (thigh), DE Trevor Pryce (head)
Cincinnati
Out: DE Robert Geathers (knee), G Scott Kooistra (knee), QB Carson Palmer (right elbow), DE Frostee Rucker (hamstring), G Andrew Whitworth (ankle)
Doubtful: LB Eric Henderson (neck), CB David Jones (knee), T Levi Jones (back), S Chinedum Ndukwe (foot), DE Antwan Odom (shoulder)
Probable: G Andrew Crummey (knee), WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (back), LB Rashad Jeanty (shin), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle)
Carolina Panthers at Green Bay Packers
Carolina
Out: LB Adam Seward (ankle)
Probable: RB Jonathan Stewart (heel)
Green Bay
Out: LB Nick Barnett (knee), CB Patrick Lee (knee)
Doubtful: RB DeShawn Wynn (calf)
Questionable: S Aaron Rouse (ankle), T Mark Tauscher (hamstring)
Probable: S Atari Bigby (ankle), CB Jarrett Bush (ankle), T Chad Clifton (knees), S Nick Collins (knee), TE Tory Humphrey (ankle), RB Brandon Jackson (ankle), WR Greg Jennings (rib), DT Johnny Jolly (ankle), WR James Jones (knee), DE Mike Montgomery (ankle), S Charlie Peprah (calf), DE Jeremy Thompson (groin), C Scott Wells (shoulder), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings
Chicago
Out: CB Nathan Vasher (hand)
Questionable: WR Marty Booker (knee), TE Desmond Clark (knee), RB Jason McKie (quadricep)
Probable: S Mike Brown (calf), DT Tommie Harris (knee), LB Jamar Williams (groin)
Minnesota
Doubtful: DT Letroy Guion (ankle)
Questionable: LB Vinny Ciurciu (hand), LB David Herron (shoulder), T Artis Hicks (elbow), TE Garrett Mills (ankle)
Probable: DE Jared Allen (shoulder), S Madieu Williams (shoulder)
Denver Broncos at NY Jets
Denver
Out: S Marlon McCree (ankle)
Doubtful: LB D.J. Williams (knee)
Questionable: CB Champ Bailey (groin), WR Eddie Royal (toe), LB Nate Webster (knee), RB Selvin Young (groin)
Probable: G Ben Hamilton (wrist), RB Peyton Hillis (shoulder), WR Brandon Marshall (hip), DT Kenny Peterson (achilles), RB P.J. Pope (ribs), DT Dewayne Robertson (knees), DT Josh Shaw (shoulder), DT Marcus Thomas (hamstring)
New York
Questionable: LB David Harris (groin), S Eric Smith (head)
Probable: WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder), DE Shaun Ellis (back), TE Bubba Franks (hip), CB Dwight Lowery (thigh), K Mike Nugent (right thigh), WR Brad Smith (shoulder), LB Jason Trusnik (knee)
Indianapolis Colts at Cleveland Browns
Indianapolis
Out: C Jeff Saturday (calf)
Questionable: CB Antoine Bethea (ankle), LB Gary Brackett (hamstring), CB Melvin Bullitt (rib), LB Tyjuan Hagler (knee), S Bob Sanders (knee)
Probable: T Tony Ugoh (quad)
Cleveland
Out: TE Darnell Dinkins (ankle)
Questionable: DT Shaun Smith (calf), RB Lawrence Vickers (ankle), TE Kellen Winslow (shoulder)
Probable: RB Charles Ali (rib), RB Jerome Harrison (hamstring), S Sean Jones (ankle), DT Shaun Rogers (shoulder), DE Corey Williams (foot)
Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders
Kansas City
Out: LB Donnie Edwards (hamstring, knee), G Adrian Jones (ankle), CB Patrick Surtain (quadricep)
Questionable: DE Alfonso Boone (back), WR Mark Bradley (calf), DE Tamba Hali (ankle), DT Tank Tyler (hip)
Oakland
Out: LB Ricky Brown (groin), C Jake Grove (calf)
Questionable: DE Kalimba Edwards (hip), TE Zach Miller (groin), WR Chaz Schilens (ankle)
Miami Dolphins at St. Louis Rams
Miami
Probable: CB Jason Allen (hand), T Jake Long (ankle)
St. Louis
Out: LB Chris Draft (foot), CB Tye Hill (knee)
Questionable: DT Adam Carriker (shoulder), RB Steven Jackson (thigh), DE Eric Moore (spine), LB Gary Stills (back), LB Will Witherspoon (shoulder)
Probable: QB Marc Bulger (concussion), WR Keenan Burton (knee), T Orlando Pace (knee)
New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New Orleans
Out: FB Mike Karney (knee)
Questionable: RB Reggie Bush (knee), DE Jeff Charleston (foot)
Tampa Bay
Questionable: QB Brian Griese (right elbow), S Jermaine Phillips (forearm), G Arron Sears (illness), TE Alex Smith (ankle)
Probable: WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder)
Atlanta Falcons at San Diego Chargers
Atlanta
Out: T Sam Baker (hip), WR Laurent Robinson (hamstring)
Questionable: DE John Abraham (neck), LB Keith Brooking (knee), K Jason Elam (left hip), WR Brian Finneran (hamstring), CB Brent Grimes (knee, quadricep), DT Grady Jackson (knee), DT Kindal Moorehead (foot), RB Jerious Norwood (rib), T Todd Weiner (knee), WR Roddy White (back)
San Diego Chargers
Doubtful: DE Keith Grennan (fibula), FB Mike Tolbert (shoulder)
Probable: DE Luis Castillo (groin), CB Antonio Cromartie (hip), CB Cletis Gordon (knee), LB Brandon Siler (foot)
Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals
Baltimore
Questionable: WR Mark Clayton (back), WR Terrance Copper (neck), G David Hale (ankle), CB Samari Rolle (thigh), T Adam Terry (head)
Probable: T Willie Anderson (foot, ankle), DT Lamar Divens (shoulder), T Jared Gaither (shoulder), TE Todd Heap (illness), WR Derrick Mason (shoulder), RB Le'Ron McClain (thigh), RB Lorenzo Neal (thigh), DE Trevor Pryce (head)
Cincinnati
Out: DE Robert Geathers (knee), G Scott Kooistra (knee), QB Carson Palmer (right elbow), DE Frostee Rucker (hamstring), G Andrew Whitworth (ankle)
Doubtful: LB Eric Henderson (neck), CB David Jones (knee), T Levi Jones (back), S Chinedum Ndukwe (foot), DE Antwan Odom (shoulder)
Probable: G Andrew Crummey (knee), WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (back), LB Rashad Jeanty (shin), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle)
Carolina Panthers at Green Bay Packers
Carolina
Out: LB Adam Seward (ankle)
Probable: RB Jonathan Stewart (heel)
Green Bay
Out: LB Nick Barnett (knee), CB Patrick Lee (knee)
Doubtful: RB DeShawn Wynn (calf)
Questionable: S Aaron Rouse (ankle), T Mark Tauscher (hamstring)
Probable: S Atari Bigby (ankle), CB Jarrett Bush (ankle), T Chad Clifton (knees), S Nick Collins (knee), TE Tory Humphrey (ankle), RB Brandon Jackson (ankle), WR Greg Jennings (rib), DT Johnny Jolly (ankle), WR James Jones (knee), DE Mike Montgomery (ankle), S Charlie Peprah (calf), DE Jeremy Thompson (groin), C Scott Wells (shoulder), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings
Chicago
Out: CB Nathan Vasher (hand)
Questionable: WR Marty Booker (knee), TE Desmond Clark (knee), RB Jason McKie (quadricep)
Probable: S Mike Brown (calf), DT Tommie Harris (knee), LB Jamar Williams (groin)
Minnesota
Doubtful: DT Letroy Guion (ankle)
Questionable: LB Vinny Ciurciu (hand), LB David Herron (shoulder), T Artis Hicks (elbow), TE Garrett Mills (ankle)
Probable: DE Jared Allen (shoulder), S Madieu Williams (shoulder)
Denver Broncos at NY Jets
Denver
Out: S Marlon McCree (ankle)
Doubtful: LB D.J. Williams (knee)
Questionable: CB Champ Bailey (groin), WR Eddie Royal (toe), LB Nate Webster (knee), RB Selvin Young (groin)
Probable: G Ben Hamilton (wrist), RB Peyton Hillis (shoulder), WR Brandon Marshall (hip), DT Kenny Peterson (achilles), RB P.J. Pope (ribs), DT Dewayne Robertson (knees), DT Josh Shaw (shoulder), DT Marcus Thomas (hamstring)
New York
Questionable: LB David Harris (groin), S Eric Smith (head)
Probable: WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder), DE Shaun Ellis (back), TE Bubba Franks (hip), CB Dwight Lowery (thigh), K Mike Nugent (right thigh), WR Brad Smith (shoulder), LB Jason Trusnik (knee)
Indianapolis Colts at Cleveland Browns
Indianapolis
Out: C Jeff Saturday (calf)
Questionable: CB Antoine Bethea (ankle), LB Gary Brackett (hamstring), CB Melvin Bullitt (rib), LB Tyjuan Hagler (knee), S Bob Sanders (knee)
Probable: T Tony Ugoh (quad)
Cleveland
Out: TE Darnell Dinkins (ankle)
Questionable: DT Shaun Smith (calf), RB Lawrence Vickers (ankle), TE Kellen Winslow (shoulder)
Probable: RB Charles Ali (rib), RB Jerome Harrison (hamstring), S Sean Jones (ankle), DT Shaun Rogers (shoulder), DE Corey Williams (foot)
Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders
Kansas City
Out: LB Donnie Edwards (hamstring, knee), G Adrian Jones (ankle), CB Patrick Surtain (quadricep)
Questionable: DE Alfonso Boone (back), WR Mark Bradley (calf), DE Tamba Hali (ankle), DT Tank Tyler (hip)
Oakland
Out: LB Ricky Brown (groin), C Jake Grove (calf)
Questionable: DE Kalimba Edwards (hip), TE Zach Miller (groin), WR Chaz Schilens (ankle)
Miami Dolphins at St. Louis Rams
Miami
Probable: CB Jason Allen (hand), T Jake Long (ankle)
St. Louis
Out: LB Chris Draft (foot), CB Tye Hill (knee)
Questionable: DT Adam Carriker (shoulder), RB Steven Jackson (thigh), DE Eric Moore (spine), LB Gary Stills (back), LB Will Witherspoon (shoulder)
Probable: QB Marc Bulger (concussion), WR Keenan Burton (knee), T Orlando Pace (knee)
New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New Orleans
Out: FB Mike Karney (knee)
Questionable: RB Reggie Bush (knee), DE Jeff Charleston (foot)
Tampa Bay
Questionable: QB Brian Griese (right elbow), S Jermaine Phillips (forearm), G Arron Sears (illness), TE Alex Smith (ankle)
Probable: WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder)
Mac's NFL Picks - Week 13
New York Giants (-3) at Washington - I’ll admit it: I have no idea how the New York Giants are doing it.
They lose Michael Strahan to FOX’s pre-game show and Osi “5 Hour Energy” Umenyiora to a torn ACL, yet their defense improves from 11th to 1st in the NFL.
Last week, they deactivate their leading rusher (Brandon Jacobs) and lose Plaxico Burress after just one series, yet still manage to hang 37 points on the road against the soon-to-be NFC West champion Arizona Cardinals.
Are Jerry Reese and Tom Coughlin geniuses? I suppose we’ll have to wait until Steve Spagnuolo is an NFL head coach to find out the answer to that question. Pick: Giants -3
San Francisco at Buffalo (-6 ½) – West Coast teams are 0-15 on the East Coast this season and I seriously question Shaun Hill’s ability to handle the wintry late November weather Buffalo is famous for. Pick: Bills -6 ½
Baltimore (-7) at Cincinnati – The Ravens need to take advantage of this opportunity to fatten up their record this week, because their schedule in December gets harder. They’ll host Washington next Sunday night and Pittsburgh the week after that, before traveling to Dallas in Week 16. Pick: Ravens -7
Indianapolis (-4 ½) at Cleveland – It’s time to give credit where credit is due. When the Colts were 3-4 and had New England and road games against Pittsburgh and San Diego on the schedule, it wasn’t looking good for Indy. They’ve rallied off 4 straight and have a very favorable schedule the rest of the way. As long as they stay healthy, they could easily run the table. Pick: Colts -4 ½
Miami (-9) at St. Louis – Steven Jackson expects to play, but Jim Haslett isn’t quite as sure. Until Jackson returns, I don’t think the Rams can beat anyone or cover the spread. Pick: Dolphins -9
New Orleans at Tampa Bay (-4) – The NFL’s 1st-ranked pass offense goes up against the NFL’s 2nd-ranked pass defense. Should be a good one, but after what he did to a very good Packers secondary on Monday night, how can I go against Drew Brees this week? Pick: Saints +4
Carolina at Green Bay (-3) – What happened to the Packers last Monday night was nothing short of shocking. To give up 51 points on national television was embarrassing, so I expect the Packers to try to pound Ryan Grant at a Panthers’ run defense that surrendered four rushing touchdowns to Michael Turner a week ago. Pick: Packers -3
Atlanta at San Diego (-5) – Thanks to the weak AFC West, even if the Chargers lose on Sunday and drop to 4-8, they’ll still be in the hunt for a playoff spot. Pick: Falcons +5
Denver at NY Jets (7 ½) – Earlier this season, Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler suggested that he had a stronger arm than Mr. Ed impersonator and Denver deity John Elway. This week, Cutler says he has a stronger arm than Brett Favre. Uh-oh, Jay. Peter King won’t forgive such blasphemy. Pick: Jets -7 ½
Pittsburgh at New England (-1) – Even with Tom Brady healing from ACL surgery, Steelers safety Anthony Smith won’t be making any guarantees about this year’s Steelers-Patriots game. Then again, with Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu, Smith won’t have to play very much. Pick: Patriots -1
Kansas City at Oakland (-3) – Kansas City turned the ball over 5 times a week ago, and they wound up giving up 54 points. This week, Tyler Thigpen makes his maiden voyage into the Black Hole to face the Oakland Raiders and their opportunistic secondary. I doubt the Raiders will hang 50 on KC, but they’ll definitely put up some points. Pick: Raiders -3
Chicago at Minnesota (-3 ½) – NBC’s Al Michaels’ acting chops will be on display, as he’ll have to sound excited about calling a game where Gus Frerotte and Kyle Orton will do battle for NFC North supremacy. Nothing against those quarterbacks, but this game will be decided on the ground, so “Advantage: Minnesota”. The NFL still hasn’t suspended Vikings’ “Williams Wall” and Purple Jesus has 423 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns in three career games against the Bears. Pick: Vikings -3 ½
Jacksonville at Houston (-3 ½) – The Jaguars are one of the few teams the Houston Texans historically haven’t struggled against and the Texans may be catching them at the right time. The Jags are falling apart, with Fred Taylor calling the team the worst he’s been on. Pick: Texans -3 ½
This week: 2-1
Last week: 8-7-1
2008 Season: 85-89-2
They lose Michael Strahan to FOX’s pre-game show and Osi “5 Hour Energy” Umenyiora to a torn ACL, yet their defense improves from 11th to 1st in the NFL.
Last week, they deactivate their leading rusher (Brandon Jacobs) and lose Plaxico Burress after just one series, yet still manage to hang 37 points on the road against the soon-to-be NFC West champion Arizona Cardinals.
Are Jerry Reese and Tom Coughlin geniuses? I suppose we’ll have to wait until Steve Spagnuolo is an NFL head coach to find out the answer to that question. Pick: Giants -3
San Francisco at Buffalo (-6 ½) – West Coast teams are 0-15 on the East Coast this season and I seriously question Shaun Hill’s ability to handle the wintry late November weather Buffalo is famous for. Pick: Bills -6 ½
Baltimore (-7) at Cincinnati – The Ravens need to take advantage of this opportunity to fatten up their record this week, because their schedule in December gets harder. They’ll host Washington next Sunday night and Pittsburgh the week after that, before traveling to Dallas in Week 16. Pick: Ravens -7
Indianapolis (-4 ½) at Cleveland – It’s time to give credit where credit is due. When the Colts were 3-4 and had New England and road games against Pittsburgh and San Diego on the schedule, it wasn’t looking good for Indy. They’ve rallied off 4 straight and have a very favorable schedule the rest of the way. As long as they stay healthy, they could easily run the table. Pick: Colts -4 ½
Miami (-9) at St. Louis – Steven Jackson expects to play, but Jim Haslett isn’t quite as sure. Until Jackson returns, I don’t think the Rams can beat anyone or cover the spread. Pick: Dolphins -9
New Orleans at Tampa Bay (-4) – The NFL’s 1st-ranked pass offense goes up against the NFL’s 2nd-ranked pass defense. Should be a good one, but after what he did to a very good Packers secondary on Monday night, how can I go against Drew Brees this week? Pick: Saints +4
Carolina at Green Bay (-3) – What happened to the Packers last Monday night was nothing short of shocking. To give up 51 points on national television was embarrassing, so I expect the Packers to try to pound Ryan Grant at a Panthers’ run defense that surrendered four rushing touchdowns to Michael Turner a week ago. Pick: Packers -3
Atlanta at San Diego (-5) – Thanks to the weak AFC West, even if the Chargers lose on Sunday and drop to 4-8, they’ll still be in the hunt for a playoff spot. Pick: Falcons +5
Denver at NY Jets (7 ½) – Earlier this season, Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler suggested that he had a stronger arm than Mr. Ed impersonator and Denver deity John Elway. This week, Cutler says he has a stronger arm than Brett Favre. Uh-oh, Jay. Peter King won’t forgive such blasphemy. Pick: Jets -7 ½
Pittsburgh at New England (-1) – Even with Tom Brady healing from ACL surgery, Steelers safety Anthony Smith won’t be making any guarantees about this year’s Steelers-Patriots game. Then again, with Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu, Smith won’t have to play very much. Pick: Patriots -1
Kansas City at Oakland (-3) – Kansas City turned the ball over 5 times a week ago, and they wound up giving up 54 points. This week, Tyler Thigpen makes his maiden voyage into the Black Hole to face the Oakland Raiders and their opportunistic secondary. I doubt the Raiders will hang 50 on KC, but they’ll definitely put up some points. Pick: Raiders -3
Chicago at Minnesota (-3 ½) – NBC’s Al Michaels’ acting chops will be on display, as he’ll have to sound excited about calling a game where Gus Frerotte and Kyle Orton will do battle for NFC North supremacy. Nothing against those quarterbacks, but this game will be decided on the ground, so “Advantage: Minnesota”. The NFL still hasn’t suspended Vikings’ “Williams Wall” and Purple Jesus has 423 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns in three career games against the Bears. Pick: Vikings -3 ½
Jacksonville at Houston (-3 ½) – The Jaguars are one of the few teams the Houston Texans historically haven’t struggled against and the Texans may be catching them at the right time. The Jags are falling apart, with Fred Taylor calling the team the worst he’s been on. Pick: Texans -3 ½
This week: 2-1
Last week: 8-7-1
2008 Season: 85-89-2
Chad Johnson Goes Bargain Hunting
Perhaps hoping to off-set the fine for being late to a team meeting, which lead to his deactivation before Cincinnati's 27-10 loss to Pittsburgh last Thursday night, Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson showed up at Best Buy in Florence, Kentucky bright and early this morning to get some bargains.
The Cincinnati Enquirer has the photographic evidence and details, including this awesome paragraph:
"Ocho Cinco makes his way through the Best Buy store in Florence, Ky. He said was in the store to buy coach Marvin Lewis a gift. Seen with a Rock Band kit, portable stereo and a Cuisinart four-slice toaster, Ocho Cinco said, "I've been trying to call coach, but he doesn't answer." It was 5:25 a.m."
Showing up on time for a meeting before a primetime game against a divisional opponent? Nah.
Showing up at Best Buy at 5am to get a good deal on a toaster? Hell yeah!
The Cincinnati Enquirer has the photographic evidence and details, including this awesome paragraph:
"Ocho Cinco makes his way through the Best Buy store in Florence, Ky. He said was in the store to buy coach Marvin Lewis a gift. Seen with a Rock Band kit, portable stereo and a Cuisinart four-slice toaster, Ocho Cinco said, "I've been trying to call coach, but he doesn't answer." It was 5:25 a.m."
Showing up on time for a meeting before a primetime game against a divisional opponent? Nah.
Showing up at Best Buy at 5am to get a good deal on a toaster? Hell yeah!
Recapping the NFL's Thanksgiving Day Games
Recapping the Thanksgiving Day games:
Titans 47, Lions 10
Thursday's 47-10 whipping of the Detroit Lions was therapuetic for the Tennessee Titans. The Titans defense gave up just 154 yards. Titans backup quarterback Vince Young saw his first action since September. Tennessee's rushing offense earned an A+ grade from Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
With the Lions' 37-point loss at home, a national television audience got to see what Detroit has been watching all season. Michael Rosenberg of the Detroit Free Press writes that the team may be 0-12, but head coach Rod Marinelli should stick around. Lions kicker Jason Hanson tied an NFL record on Thursday.
Cowboys 34, Seahawks 9
After blowing out the Seahawks on Thursday, the Dallas Cowboys are ready for the December stretch run towards the post-season. Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware had three of the team's season-high seven sacks, but had an MRI on his left knee after the game. Cowboys running back Marion Barber has a dislocated toe.
Seattle's latest embarrasing loss has the Seahawks looking like a team capable of finishing 2-14, writes Clare Farnsworth. Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck took a beating on Thursday. The Seahawks couldn't stop Cowboys tight end Jason Witten. Jim Moore of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer is embracing the 'Hawks losing streak.
Eagles 48, Cardinals 20
The Philadelphia Eagles made it look easy, dropping the Arizona Cardinals 48-20 at Lincoln Financial Field. Eagles running back Brian Westbrook left a huge footprint on the Arizona Cardinals. An improved rushing attack helped Donovan McNabb's revival. For now, McNabb's future is now, writes Rich Hofmann of the Philadelphia Daily News. Eagles guard Max Jean-Gilles was lost for the season with a fractured ankle.
With the possibility of clinching their first division title in 33 years, the Arizona Cardinals were awful on Thursday night. Dan Bickley of the Arizona Republic writes that the while the Cardinals will win the NFC West, the occasion has "lost some of it's verve". The Cardinals plan to run the ball didn't last long.
AFC News and Notes
New York Jets running back Leon Washington learned how to be a professional from watching Curtis Martin. Brian Costello of the New York Post looks at how the Jets can run the table.
New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork is one of the best nose tackles in the game, writes Christopher Gasper. Defensively, the Patriots need to tighten up in the red zone.
With Greg Camarillo down for the season, Miami Dolphins tight ends David Martin and Anthony Fasano will play a larger role in the offense. Dolphins wide receiver Ernest Wilford will be active on Sunday.
Spend :60 seconds with Buffalo Bills wide receiver Lee Evans. Teams from the West Coast struggle when traveling east, which should help the Bills on Sunday.
Since signing with the Cincinnati Bengals less than a month ago, safety Chris Crocker has made an impact in the secondary.
Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer ponders the big question with the Cleveland Browns: Brady Quinn may be Romeo Crennel's quarterback, but will Romeo Crennel be Brady Quinn's coach?
Kevin Van Valkenburg of the Baltimore Sun lists his "5 Reasons to be Thankful that Ben Grubbs is a Baltimore Raven". Ravens defensive tackle Haloti Ngata is still not in the Top 5 in Pro Bowl voting.
Pittsburgh Steelers center Jeff Hartwig will face a huge challenge this Sunday in Foxborough. Steelers safeties Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark are looking forward to playing in this year's Patriots game.
The Houston Texans will have to stay disciplined against Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard, who can beat you with his arm and his legs. The Texans had a short practice on Thursday.
Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Rashean Mathis and Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson have matched up on nine occasions. Jaguars newly signed punter Steve Weatherford has a chance to stick around in 2009.
Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Keyunta Dawson's family has plenty to be thankful for. Colts safety Bob Sanders isn't expected to play on Sunday against Cleveland.
Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler will take on Brett Favre this Sunday. Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall needs to be more assertive, says Hall of Fame wide receiver Michael Irvin.
Kansas City Chiefs rookie running back Jamaal Charles has been one of the team's biggest playmakers, but there are concerns about his ball security. The Chiefs defense may be short-handed against Oakland.
San Diego Chargers nose tackle Jamal Williams is still having fun. The Chargers coaching staff already has an eye on next Thursday night's game.
Oakland Raiders tight end Zach Miller dreams of putting up Tony Gonzalez-type numbers. The Raiders know the significance of division games.
NFC News and Notes
One key to a New York Giants win this Sunday is containing Clinton Portis. Giants running back Brandon Jacobs' availability for Sunday is still up in the air.
Washington Redskins kicker Shaun Suisham is ready to make the big kicks. Redskins head coach Jim Zorn doesn't expect London Fletcher to play this Sunday.
Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris has shown flashes of his Pro Bowl ability in recent weeks. Bears head coach Lovie Smith called Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson the best player in the NFL.
Green Bay Packers defensive end Aaron Kampman needs help from his teammates. The Packers want big plays from running back Ryan Grant.
Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears is a must-win game for the Minnesota Vikings. Right tackle Artis Hicks may miss a second consecutive game.
Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner has been moving the chains. Atlanta's "The Over 30 Club" has provided the team with veteran leadership.
Despite the ease in which the New Orleans Saints passed the ball on Monday night, the Carolina Panthers won't take the Green Bay Packers secondary lightly. The Panthers could be playing in the snow on Sunday.
New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith's season could be over after Sunday's game against Tampa Bay. Saints cornerback Aaron Glenn was placed on injured reserve.
Dave Scheiber of the St. Petersburg Times writes that the recent economic crisis has affected highly-paid NFL players. Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Jermaine Phillips is ready to get back on the field.
St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson is eager to get back on the field. The 1st and 2nd picks in the 2008 NFL Draft will meet up at the Edward Jones Dome on Sunday. Rams left tackle Orlando Pace says his knee is fine.
The San Francisco 49ers may be facing inclement weather in Buffalo this Sunday. 49ers head coach Mike Singletary wants the team to follow his "Formula for Success".
Titans 47, Lions 10
Thursday's 47-10 whipping of the Detroit Lions was therapuetic for the Tennessee Titans. The Titans defense gave up just 154 yards. Titans backup quarterback Vince Young saw his first action since September. Tennessee's rushing offense earned an A+ grade from Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
With the Lions' 37-point loss at home, a national television audience got to see what Detroit has been watching all season. Michael Rosenberg of the Detroit Free Press writes that the team may be 0-12, but head coach Rod Marinelli should stick around. Lions kicker Jason Hanson tied an NFL record on Thursday.
Cowboys 34, Seahawks 9
After blowing out the Seahawks on Thursday, the Dallas Cowboys are ready for the December stretch run towards the post-season. Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware had three of the team's season-high seven sacks, but had an MRI on his left knee after the game. Cowboys running back Marion Barber has a dislocated toe.
Seattle's latest embarrasing loss has the Seahawks looking like a team capable of finishing 2-14, writes Clare Farnsworth. Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck took a beating on Thursday. The Seahawks couldn't stop Cowboys tight end Jason Witten. Jim Moore of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer is embracing the 'Hawks losing streak.
Eagles 48, Cardinals 20
The Philadelphia Eagles made it look easy, dropping the Arizona Cardinals 48-20 at Lincoln Financial Field. Eagles running back Brian Westbrook left a huge footprint on the Arizona Cardinals. An improved rushing attack helped Donovan McNabb's revival. For now, McNabb's future is now, writes Rich Hofmann of the Philadelphia Daily News. Eagles guard Max Jean-Gilles was lost for the season with a fractured ankle.
With the possibility of clinching their first division title in 33 years, the Arizona Cardinals were awful on Thursday night. Dan Bickley of the Arizona Republic writes that the while the Cardinals will win the NFC West, the occasion has "lost some of it's verve". The Cardinals plan to run the ball didn't last long.
AFC News and Notes
New York Jets running back Leon Washington learned how to be a professional from watching Curtis Martin. Brian Costello of the New York Post looks at how the Jets can run the table.
New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork is one of the best nose tackles in the game, writes Christopher Gasper. Defensively, the Patriots need to tighten up in the red zone.
With Greg Camarillo down for the season, Miami Dolphins tight ends David Martin and Anthony Fasano will play a larger role in the offense. Dolphins wide receiver Ernest Wilford will be active on Sunday.
Spend :60 seconds with Buffalo Bills wide receiver Lee Evans. Teams from the West Coast struggle when traveling east, which should help the Bills on Sunday.
Since signing with the Cincinnati Bengals less than a month ago, safety Chris Crocker has made an impact in the secondary.
Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer ponders the big question with the Cleveland Browns: Brady Quinn may be Romeo Crennel's quarterback, but will Romeo Crennel be Brady Quinn's coach?
Kevin Van Valkenburg of the Baltimore Sun lists his "5 Reasons to be Thankful that Ben Grubbs is a Baltimore Raven". Ravens defensive tackle Haloti Ngata is still not in the Top 5 in Pro Bowl voting.
Pittsburgh Steelers center Jeff Hartwig will face a huge challenge this Sunday in Foxborough. Steelers safeties Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark are looking forward to playing in this year's Patriots game.
The Houston Texans will have to stay disciplined against Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard, who can beat you with his arm and his legs. The Texans had a short practice on Thursday.
Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Rashean Mathis and Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson have matched up on nine occasions. Jaguars newly signed punter Steve Weatherford has a chance to stick around in 2009.
Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Keyunta Dawson's family has plenty to be thankful for. Colts safety Bob Sanders isn't expected to play on Sunday against Cleveland.
Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler will take on Brett Favre this Sunday. Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall needs to be more assertive, says Hall of Fame wide receiver Michael Irvin.
Kansas City Chiefs rookie running back Jamaal Charles has been one of the team's biggest playmakers, but there are concerns about his ball security. The Chiefs defense may be short-handed against Oakland.
San Diego Chargers nose tackle Jamal Williams is still having fun. The Chargers coaching staff already has an eye on next Thursday night's game.
Oakland Raiders tight end Zach Miller dreams of putting up Tony Gonzalez-type numbers. The Raiders know the significance of division games.
NFC News and Notes
One key to a New York Giants win this Sunday is containing Clinton Portis. Giants running back Brandon Jacobs' availability for Sunday is still up in the air.
Washington Redskins kicker Shaun Suisham is ready to make the big kicks. Redskins head coach Jim Zorn doesn't expect London Fletcher to play this Sunday.
Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris has shown flashes of his Pro Bowl ability in recent weeks. Bears head coach Lovie Smith called Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson the best player in the NFL.
Green Bay Packers defensive end Aaron Kampman needs help from his teammates. The Packers want big plays from running back Ryan Grant.
Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears is a must-win game for the Minnesota Vikings. Right tackle Artis Hicks may miss a second consecutive game.
Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner has been moving the chains. Atlanta's "The Over 30 Club" has provided the team with veteran leadership.
Despite the ease in which the New Orleans Saints passed the ball on Monday night, the Carolina Panthers won't take the Green Bay Packers secondary lightly. The Panthers could be playing in the snow on Sunday.
New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith's season could be over after Sunday's game against Tampa Bay. Saints cornerback Aaron Glenn was placed on injured reserve.
Dave Scheiber of the St. Petersburg Times writes that the recent economic crisis has affected highly-paid NFL players. Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Jermaine Phillips is ready to get back on the field.
St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson is eager to get back on the field. The 1st and 2nd picks in the 2008 NFL Draft will meet up at the Edward Jones Dome on Sunday. Rams left tackle Orlando Pace says his knee is fine.
The San Francisco 49ers may be facing inclement weather in Buffalo this Sunday. 49ers head coach Mike Singletary wants the team to follow his "Formula for Success".
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving, NFL Fans
Mac's picks for today's game:
Titans (-11) over Detroit
Seattle (+12.5) over Dallas
Philadelphia (-3) over Arizona.
Happy Thanksgiving everybody!
AFC News and Notes
For his role in an on-field brawl last Sunday against Miami, New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light was fined $15,000, but avoided a suspension. Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel was named the AFC's Offensive Player of the Week for the second time this season.
Three defensive starters (Aaron Schobel, Jabari Greer and Keith Ellison) will miss Sunday's game against San Francisco. Bills cornerback Terrence McGee has been matched-up against the opponents top receivers.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter apologized to his coaches and teammates. Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder was fined $15,000 for his involvement in an on-field brawl against New England. Dolphins rookie left tackle Jake Long missed practice on Wednesday.
New York Jets safety Abram Elam has plenty to be thankful for. Jets quarterback Brett Favre has a fan in Mike Shanahan.
Cincinnati Bengals left guard Andrew Whitworth was declared "out" of Sunday's game against Baltimore. Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson understands why Marvin Lewis deactivated him.
Cleveland Browns head coach Romeo Crennel has already named his starting quarterback for 2009. Now that he's the starter for the rest of the season, Browns quarterback Derek Anderson could be auditioning for a new team.
Baltimore Ravens tackle Willie Anderson has played a key role since joining the team in September.
11 years into his career, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward is still one of the best at his position. Former Steelers center Dermonnti Dawson is a semi-finalist for the Hall of Fame, and received an endorsement from Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.
The Houston Texans are still looking for the winning formula. Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson will be up against Rashean Mathis on Sunday.
Jacksonville Jaguars running back Fred Taylor thinks he might be swept off the roster in 2009. Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson is one of 32 NFLers who'll receive the President's volunteer service award.
The Tennessee Titans want to get back to running the ball. Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean has "Five Things to Know" about today's Titans-Lions game.
Indianapolis Colts center Jeff Saturday isn't sure when he'll return to the lineup. The Colts have converted 49% of their 3rd down conversion attempts.
Denver Broncos defensive end Jarvis Moss is working to become an every-down lineman. Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler has no filter.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Tyler Thigpen will have to smart to beat the Oakland Raiders. Last week's loss showed how important ball security is to the Chiefs.
The San Diego Chargers showed that giving away can be a good thing. Chargers linebacker Matt Wilhelm is having an impact in Ron Rivera's system.
Oakland Raiders cornerback Chris Johnson has ably replaced DeAngelo Hall. Raiders punt returner Johnnie Lee Higgins was named the AFC's Special Teams Player of the Week.
NFC News and Notes
Former Dallas Cowboys cornerback Ike Thomas is thankful his daughters are alive. Cowboys nose tackle Jay Ratliff is quietly having a solid season.
New York Giants safety Kenny Phillips idolized Sean Taylor. Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes is trying to get a pardon for his imprisoned brother.
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Asante Samuel is unlikely to play tonight against Arizona. Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb has a sympathizer in Kurt Warner.
Washington Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell is earning Jim Zorn's trust. Redskins linebacker Marcus Washington has been ruled "out" for Sunday's game against the Giants.
Chicago Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher is out indefinitely with a fractured hand. The Bears will be up against the Williams Wall on Sunday.
The Detroit Lions have never really been dominant on Thanksgiving. Nicholas Cotsonika of the Detroit Free Press scouts today's Lions-Titans game.
Consistency has been a problem for the Green Bay Packers defense. All of the Packers safeties practiced on Wednesday.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Gus Frerotte thinks he's holding up physically. Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has fared well against the Bears run defense.
Atlanta Falcons rookie wide receiver Harry Douglas was named the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week. Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff is locking up the players who are key to the Falcons' future.
The Carolina Panthers players discussed their favorite Thanksgiving food. Panthers head coach John Fox broke the team's practice routine on Wednesday.
New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush thinks he'll play on Sunday against Tampa Bay. Saints running back Deuce McAllister showed why he's a fan favorite on Tuesday.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Ronde Barber was named the NFC's Defensive Player of the Week. The Buccaneers changed their playoff ticket policy.
An Arizona Cardinals win tonight would mean a lot. Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner's jersey was sent to the Hall of Fame.
The Seattle Seahawks will be playing for pride today in Dallas. Jose Miguel Romero of the Seattle Times previews today's Seahawks-Cowboys game.
St. Louis Rams guard Richie Incognito apologized to the fans. Rams quarterback Marc Bulger is ready to return from his concussion on Sunday.
For throwing blocks, the San Francisco 49ers throw a bone to tight end Vernon Davis.
Titans (-11) over Detroit
Seattle (+12.5) over Dallas
Philadelphia (-3) over Arizona.
Happy Thanksgiving everybody!
AFC News and Notes
For his role in an on-field brawl last Sunday against Miami, New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light was fined $15,000, but avoided a suspension. Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel was named the AFC's Offensive Player of the Week for the second time this season.
Three defensive starters (Aaron Schobel, Jabari Greer and Keith Ellison) will miss Sunday's game against San Francisco. Bills cornerback Terrence McGee has been matched-up against the opponents top receivers.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter apologized to his coaches and teammates. Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder was fined $15,000 for his involvement in an on-field brawl against New England. Dolphins rookie left tackle Jake Long missed practice on Wednesday.
New York Jets safety Abram Elam has plenty to be thankful for. Jets quarterback Brett Favre has a fan in Mike Shanahan.
Cincinnati Bengals left guard Andrew Whitworth was declared "out" of Sunday's game against Baltimore. Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson understands why Marvin Lewis deactivated him.
Cleveland Browns head coach Romeo Crennel has already named his starting quarterback for 2009. Now that he's the starter for the rest of the season, Browns quarterback Derek Anderson could be auditioning for a new team.
Baltimore Ravens tackle Willie Anderson has played a key role since joining the team in September.
11 years into his career, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward is still one of the best at his position. Former Steelers center Dermonnti Dawson is a semi-finalist for the Hall of Fame, and received an endorsement from Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.
The Houston Texans are still looking for the winning formula. Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson will be up against Rashean Mathis on Sunday.
Jacksonville Jaguars running back Fred Taylor thinks he might be swept off the roster in 2009. Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson is one of 32 NFLers who'll receive the President's volunteer service award.
The Tennessee Titans want to get back to running the ball. Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean has "Five Things to Know" about today's Titans-Lions game.
Indianapolis Colts center Jeff Saturday isn't sure when he'll return to the lineup. The Colts have converted 49% of their 3rd down conversion attempts.
Denver Broncos defensive end Jarvis Moss is working to become an every-down lineman. Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler has no filter.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Tyler Thigpen will have to smart to beat the Oakland Raiders. Last week's loss showed how important ball security is to the Chiefs.
The San Diego Chargers showed that giving away can be a good thing. Chargers linebacker Matt Wilhelm is having an impact in Ron Rivera's system.
Oakland Raiders cornerback Chris Johnson has ably replaced DeAngelo Hall. Raiders punt returner Johnnie Lee Higgins was named the AFC's Special Teams Player of the Week.
NFC News and Notes
Former Dallas Cowboys cornerback Ike Thomas is thankful his daughters are alive. Cowboys nose tackle Jay Ratliff is quietly having a solid season.
New York Giants safety Kenny Phillips idolized Sean Taylor. Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes is trying to get a pardon for his imprisoned brother.
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Asante Samuel is unlikely to play tonight against Arizona. Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb has a sympathizer in Kurt Warner.
Washington Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell is earning Jim Zorn's trust. Redskins linebacker Marcus Washington has been ruled "out" for Sunday's game against the Giants.
Chicago Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher is out indefinitely with a fractured hand. The Bears will be up against the Williams Wall on Sunday.
The Detroit Lions have never really been dominant on Thanksgiving. Nicholas Cotsonika of the Detroit Free Press scouts today's Lions-Titans game.
Consistency has been a problem for the Green Bay Packers defense. All of the Packers safeties practiced on Wednesday.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Gus Frerotte thinks he's holding up physically. Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has fared well against the Bears run defense.
Atlanta Falcons rookie wide receiver Harry Douglas was named the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week. Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff is locking up the players who are key to the Falcons' future.
The Carolina Panthers players discussed their favorite Thanksgiving food. Panthers head coach John Fox broke the team's practice routine on Wednesday.
New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush thinks he'll play on Sunday against Tampa Bay. Saints running back Deuce McAllister showed why he's a fan favorite on Tuesday.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Ronde Barber was named the NFC's Defensive Player of the Week. The Buccaneers changed their playoff ticket policy.
An Arizona Cardinals win tonight would mean a lot. Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner's jersey was sent to the Hall of Fame.
The Seattle Seahawks will be playing for pride today in Dallas. Jose Miguel Romero of the Seattle Times previews today's Seahawks-Cowboys game.
St. Louis Rams guard Richie Incognito apologized to the fans. Rams quarterback Marc Bulger is ready to return from his concussion on Sunday.
For throwing blocks, the San Francisco 49ers throw a bone to tight end Vernon Davis.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Cut Matt Hasselbeck?
I wrote this story today for Seahawks.Net, a part of the Scout.com network, in response to a report by Adam Schefter that the Seattle Seahawks may decide to release quarterback Matt Hasselbeck for salary cap purposes.
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
FOX Sports: Brady Quinn to Miss Remainder of Season
FOXSports.com's Jay Glazer is reporting that Cleveland Browns quarterback Brady Quinn will miss the rest of the season.
Glazer writes that doctors (Quinn visited Dr. James Andrews this week) concluded that the break to his right index finger was worsened in his attempt to play with it. The problem with his finger isn't just a broken bone, he sustained tendon damage, as well.
Derek Anderson would start in his place, with Ken Dorsey backing him up. If Quinn is placed on injured reserve, they would likely sign another quarterback for insurance. Some names the Browns may consider are Bruce Gradkowski, Jared Lorenzen and Kyle Wright.
Glazer writes that doctors (Quinn visited Dr. James Andrews this week) concluded that the break to his right index finger was worsened in his attempt to play with it. The problem with his finger isn't just a broken bone, he sustained tendon damage, as well.
Derek Anderson would start in his place, with Ken Dorsey backing him up. If Quinn is placed on injured reserve, they would likely sign another quarterback for insurance. Some names the Browns may consider are Bruce Gradkowski, Jared Lorenzen and Kyle Wright.
Lions Sell Out Thanksgiving Game
The NFL gave the Detroit Lions an extension to sell the remaining tickets for Thursday's Thanksgiving Day game against the Tennessee Titans.
And today, they've announced that the tickets were sold and the game will not be blacked out on local television.
So good news, Lions fans. You don't need to go to the game to see it.
And today, they've announced that the tickets were sold and the game will not be blacked out on local television.
So good news, Lions fans. You don't need to go to the game to see it.
Semifinalists for Pro Football's Hall of Fame Class of 2009 Announced
The Pro Football Hall of Fame's Board of Selectors announced the list of 25 semifinalists being considered for the Hall of Fame's Class of 2009.
Those chosen were:
Cris Carter, WR - Philadelphia Eagles (1987-89), Minnesota Vikings (1990-2001), Miami Dolphins (2002)
Roger Craig, RB - San Francisco 49ers (1983-90), Los Angeles Raiders (1991), Minnesota Vikings (1992-93)
Terrell Davis, RB - Denver Broncos (1995-2001)
Dermontti Dawson, C - Pittsburgh Steelers (1988-2000)
Richard Dent, DE - Chicago Bears (1983-93, 1995), San Francisco 49ers (1994), Indianapolis Colts (1996), Philadelphia Eagles (1997)
Chris Doleman, DE - Minnesota Vikings (1985-1993, 1999), Atlanta Falcons (1994-95), San Francisco 49ers (1996-98)
Kevin Greene, LB - Los Angeles Rams (1985-92), Pittsburgh Steelers (1993-95), Carolina Panthers (1996, 1998-99), San Francisco 49ers (1997)
Russ Grimm, G - Washington Redskins (1981-91)
Ray Guy, P - Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1973-86)
Charles Haley, DE - San Francisco 49ers (1986-91, 1999), Dallas Cowboys (1992-96)
Lester Hayes, CB - Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1977-86)
Cortez Kennedy, DT - Seattle Seahawks (1990-2000)
Bob Keuchenberg, G - Miami Dolphins (1970-84)
Randall McDaniel, G - Minnesota Vikings (1988-99), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2000-01)
Art Modell, Owner - Cleveland Browns (1961-1995), Baltimore Ravens (1996-2003)
John Randle, DT* - Minnesota Vikings (1990-2000), Seattle Seahawks (2001-03)
Andre Reed, WR - Buffalo Bills (1985-99), Washington Redskins (2000)
Shannon Sharpe, TE* - Denver Broncos (1990-99, 2002-03), Baltimore Ravens (2000-01)
Bruce Smith, DE* - Buffalo Bills (1985-99), Washington Redskins (2000-03)
Ken Stabler, QB - Oakland Raiders (1970-79), Houston Oilers (1980-81), New Orleans Saints (1982-84)
Paul Tagliabue, Commissioner - National Football League (1989-2006)
Steve Tasker, WR/ST - Houston Oilers (1985-86), Buffalo Bills (1986-97)
Derrick Thomas, LB - Kansas City Chiefs (1989-99)
Ralph Wilson, Owner - Buffalo Bills (1959-Present)
Rod Woodson, CB/S* - Pittsburgh Steelers (1987-96), San Francisco 49ers (1997), Baltimore Ravens (1998-2001), Oakland Raiders (2002-03)
*-1st year eligible
This list will be parred down to 15, plus two "Seniors Committee" nominees, who this year are Bob Hayes and Claude Humphrey.
The 2009 Hall of Fame Class will consist of between 4-to-7 enshrinees, with only 5 "modern-era nominees" allowed in each Class.
My list? Well, ok!
Ralph Wilson
Cris Carter
Cortez Kennedy
Derrick Thomas
Bob Kuechenberg
Those chosen were:
Cris Carter, WR - Philadelphia Eagles (1987-89), Minnesota Vikings (1990-2001), Miami Dolphins (2002)
Roger Craig, RB - San Francisco 49ers (1983-90), Los Angeles Raiders (1991), Minnesota Vikings (1992-93)
Terrell Davis, RB - Denver Broncos (1995-2001)
Dermontti Dawson, C - Pittsburgh Steelers (1988-2000)
Richard Dent, DE - Chicago Bears (1983-93, 1995), San Francisco 49ers (1994), Indianapolis Colts (1996), Philadelphia Eagles (1997)
Chris Doleman, DE - Minnesota Vikings (1985-1993, 1999), Atlanta Falcons (1994-95), San Francisco 49ers (1996-98)
Kevin Greene, LB - Los Angeles Rams (1985-92), Pittsburgh Steelers (1993-95), Carolina Panthers (1996, 1998-99), San Francisco 49ers (1997)
Russ Grimm, G - Washington Redskins (1981-91)
Ray Guy, P - Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1973-86)
Charles Haley, DE - San Francisco 49ers (1986-91, 1999), Dallas Cowboys (1992-96)
Lester Hayes, CB - Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1977-86)
Cortez Kennedy, DT - Seattle Seahawks (1990-2000)
Bob Keuchenberg, G - Miami Dolphins (1970-84)
Randall McDaniel, G - Minnesota Vikings (1988-99), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2000-01)
Art Modell, Owner - Cleveland Browns (1961-1995), Baltimore Ravens (1996-2003)
John Randle, DT* - Minnesota Vikings (1990-2000), Seattle Seahawks (2001-03)
Andre Reed, WR - Buffalo Bills (1985-99), Washington Redskins (2000)
Shannon Sharpe, TE* - Denver Broncos (1990-99, 2002-03), Baltimore Ravens (2000-01)
Bruce Smith, DE* - Buffalo Bills (1985-99), Washington Redskins (2000-03)
Ken Stabler, QB - Oakland Raiders (1970-79), Houston Oilers (1980-81), New Orleans Saints (1982-84)
Paul Tagliabue, Commissioner - National Football League (1989-2006)
Steve Tasker, WR/ST - Houston Oilers (1985-86), Buffalo Bills (1986-97)
Derrick Thomas, LB - Kansas City Chiefs (1989-99)
Ralph Wilson, Owner - Buffalo Bills (1959-Present)
Rod Woodson, CB/S* - Pittsburgh Steelers (1987-96), San Francisco 49ers (1997), Baltimore Ravens (1998-2001), Oakland Raiders (2002-03)
*-1st year eligible
This list will be parred down to 15, plus two "Seniors Committee" nominees, who this year are Bob Hayes and Claude Humphrey.
The 2009 Hall of Fame Class will consist of between 4-to-7 enshrinees, with only 5 "modern-era nominees" allowed in each Class.
My list? Well, ok!
Ralph Wilson
Cris Carter
Cortez Kennedy
Derrick Thomas
Bob Kuechenberg
ESPN: Redskins Release Shaun Alexander
ESPN.com's Mike Sando is reporting that the Washington Redskins have released running back Shaun Alexander.
Alexander signed with the Redskins in October when running backs Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts were injured. During 4 games with the Redskins, Alexander carried the ball 11 times for 24 yards and caught one pass for 9 yards.
He was active, but did not play, in his return trip to Seattle on Sunday.
Alexander signed with the Redskins in October when running backs Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts were injured. During 4 games with the Redskins, Alexander carried the ball 11 times for 24 yards and caught one pass for 9 yards.
He was active, but did not play, in his return trip to Seattle on Sunday.
Ahman Green Placed on Injured Reserve
Houston Texans running back Ahman Green has been placed on injured reserve, the Houston Chronicle is reporting.
Green sprained his knee in Sunday's 16-6 win over the Cleveland Browns. Since with the Texans before the 2007 season, Green has missed 11 of 27 games, making 6 starts and carrying the ball 144 times for 544 yards and 5 touchdowns.
Green signed a four-year contract with Houston worth $23 million dollars on March 4th, 2007. He has already $12.5 of that $23 million, but since the Texans will save approximately $4.25 million against their cap in 2009 by releasing Green, they'll likely do so after the season.
Green sprained his knee in Sunday's 16-6 win over the Cleveland Browns. Since with the Texans before the 2007 season, Green has missed 11 of 27 games, making 6 starts and carrying the ball 144 times for 544 yards and 5 touchdowns.
Green signed a four-year contract with Houston worth $23 million dollars on March 4th, 2007. He has already $12.5 of that $23 million, but since the Texans will save approximately $4.25 million against their cap in 2009 by releasing Green, they'll likely do so after the season.
"Remembering 21"
On November 26th, 2007, Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor was shot during a break-in at his Miami-area home. He would pass away the following day.
With the Washington Redskins set to induct Taylor into their "Ring of Fame" during this Sunday's game against the New York Giants, the Washington Post takes a look back at Sean Taylor's life and his senseless death.
I highly recommend taking a few moments to read their entries:
Gregg Williams discusses his relationship with Taylor
Jason La Canfora looks at the biggest hits of Taylor's career
Jason Reid discusses Taylor in a video blog
La Canfora arrived in Washington the same year the Redskins drafted Taylor
More posts about Taylor appear to be on the way, so be sure to check the "Redskins Insider" blog for more coverage.
With the Washington Redskins set to induct Taylor into their "Ring of Fame" during this Sunday's game against the New York Giants, the Washington Post takes a look back at Sean Taylor's life and his senseless death.
I highly recommend taking a few moments to read their entries:
Gregg Williams discusses his relationship with Taylor
Jason La Canfora looks at the biggest hits of Taylor's career
Jason Reid discusses Taylor in a video blog
La Canfora arrived in Washington the same year the Redskins drafted Taylor
More posts about Taylor appear to be on the way, so be sure to check the "Redskins Insider" blog for more coverage.
Saints Blowout Packers on Monday Night Football
Saints 51, Packers 29
Jeff Duncan of The Times-Picayune writes that Monday night was the official debut of the New Orleans Saints "heralded offense". Duncan also notes that last night's 416-yard and 51-point outburst was done without Reggie Bush, who happens to be the most dynamic weapon on the Saints roster.
To me, the story of the night was the play of Saints wide receiver Lance Moore , who is enjoying a breakout season. Moore joined the Saints as an undrafted free agent from Toledo in 2005, and with all the injuries the Saints have dealt with this season, Moore has stepped up and produced numbers similar to the league's most talented, and highest-paid, wide receivers.
Here are two wide receivers you may have heard of, and their 2008 compensation and compensation, compared with Moore's salary and production.
Randy Moss ($13.9 million dollars)- 54 receptions, 740 yards, 8 touchdowns
Terrell Owens ($13.73 million dollars) - 47 receptions, 718 yards, 7 touchdowns
Lance Moore ($520,000) - 57 receptions, 724 yards, 7 touchdowns
Moore doesn't have a contract for 2009, but with just three accrued seasons in the NFL, he'll be a restricted free agent in the off-season.
More Saints-Packers notes
As long as Drew Brees remains healthy, the Saints have a shot against anyone in the NFL, writes Peter Finney. Saints running back Deuce McAllister set a franchise record with his 54th career touchdown.
Green Bay's secondary was shredded on Monday night. Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers isn't to blame for the loss, but he didn't help. A handful of Packers were injured during last night's game, including right tackle Mark Tauscher. ESPN's Tony Kornheiser wouldn't stop talking about #4.
AFC News and Notes
The New York Jets offensive line had their best game of the season on Sunday. The Big Apple is buzzing about the possibilities of an all-New York Super Bowl.
National Football League director of football operations Gene Washington is reviewing the fight between New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light and Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder. The Patriots are using the spread offense.
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Greg Camarillo's torn ACL is a huge blow to the Dolphins offense. Dolphins linebackers Channing Crowder and Joey Porter could face in-house disciplinary action.
Buffalo Bills running backs Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson are living up to their "Beast Mode" reputations. The Bills win on Sunday kept the team's playoff hopes alive.
Don't expect anyone in the Pittsburgh Steelers secondary to guarantee a win over the New England Patriots this season. The Steelers made a change at punter.
The Baltimore Ravens have been taking care of business in the 4th quarter. The Ravens offensive line is banged up at the wrong time, writes Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun.
Cleveland Browns general manager Phil Savage and head coach Romeo Crennel are on the hot seat, writes Mary Kay Cabot in the Cleveland Plain-Dealer. Browns quarterback Brady Quinn will visit Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion on his fractured right index finger.
A pair of Cincinnati Bengals defensive ends were placed on injured reserve on Monday. Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer may need surgery on his elbow.
Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher and running back LenDale White reached an understanding on Monday. The Titans turned their focus to the Detroit Lions.
The Indianapolis Colts plan to push the Tennessee Titans in the AFC South in December.
Houston Texans defensive coordinator Richard Smith called an aggressive game on Sunday. The Texans are short on healthy running backs.
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio is already looking ahead to 2009. Jaguars running back Fred Taylor says "the mix is all wrong" when asked why the Jaguars aren't a good team.
Denver Broncos kicker Matt Prater laments his bad day on Sunday against Oakland. Invesco Field doesn't have the same homefield advantage of Mile High Stadium.
The pathetic state of the AFC West is keeping the 4-7 San Diego Chargers' playoff hopes alive. Chargers head coach Norv Turner acknowledged he made a clock management mistake in Sunday night's final minute.
Believe it or not, the Oakland Raiders are only three games behind the divison-leading Denver Broncos.
Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham is having a rough season.
NFC News and Notes
The New York Giants offense has been doing whatever it wants to do. Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress had tests performed on his hamstring on Monday.
Kevin Sherrington of the Dallas Morning News on the Dallas Cowboys: "As soon as you say something nice about these guys, it goes straight to their over-inflated heads." The DMN also looks back at the best moments of Cowboys & Thanksgiving.
The Washington Redskins offense has struggled against elite defenses, writes Barry Svrluga. Two key members of the Redskins defense had MRIs on Monday.
2008 should be Andy Reid's 10th and final season as the Philadelphia Eagles head coach, writes Bill Conlin of the Philadelphia Daily News. Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb will start on Thursday night against Arizona.
Chicago Bears rookie running back Matt Forte is 5th in the NFL in rushing. Bears running back Kevin Jones has been inactive the last few weeks due to needs on special teams.
The Minnesota Vikings passing offense lacks consistency. Vikings defensive end Ray Edwards isn't at all happy with his $25,000 fine.
Detroit Lions quarterback Drew Stanton has a concussion, meaning Drew Henson will be the #2 quarterback on Thursday against Tennessee. Lions head coach Rod Marinelli says they're trying to get the ball into Calvin Johnson's hands.
Atlanta Falcons defensive end John Abraham should be able to play on Sunday against San Diego, Falcons head coach Mike Smith said. Falcons rookie tackle Sam Baker is getting closer to returning from back surgery.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme doesn't expect a cut on his throwing elbow to keep him from doing anything this week. Slow starts finally caught up to the Panthers.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are about to run through a gauntlet of divisional games. The Buccaneers are getting points from their defense and special teams.
Paola Boivin of the Arizona Republic compares Arizona Cardinals running back J.J. Arrington to his 1970 Dodge Challenger. The Cardinals have turned their focus to their Thursday night game against Philadelphia.
Seattle Seahawks rookie tight end John Carlson is excited to play on Thanksgiving. The Seahawks' December 7th home game against the New England Patriots was pulled from prime time.
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting that St. Louis Rams head coach Jim Haslett has been told by Rams ownership that he needs to win a couple of games to be retained as head coach in 2009. Rams guard Richie Incognito won't be disciplined for taunting Rams fans in recent days.
Under new head coach Mike Singletary, the San Francisco 49ers have improved in several areas. 49ers rookie guard Chilo Rachal will start against Buffalo on Sunday.
Jeff Duncan of The Times-Picayune writes that Monday night was the official debut of the New Orleans Saints "heralded offense". Duncan also notes that last night's 416-yard and 51-point outburst was done without Reggie Bush, who happens to be the most dynamic weapon on the Saints roster.
To me, the story of the night was the play of Saints wide receiver Lance Moore , who is enjoying a breakout season. Moore joined the Saints as an undrafted free agent from Toledo in 2005, and with all the injuries the Saints have dealt with this season, Moore has stepped up and produced numbers similar to the league's most talented, and highest-paid, wide receivers.
Here are two wide receivers you may have heard of, and their 2008 compensation and compensation, compared with Moore's salary and production.
Randy Moss ($13.9 million dollars)- 54 receptions, 740 yards, 8 touchdowns
Terrell Owens ($13.73 million dollars) - 47 receptions, 718 yards, 7 touchdowns
Lance Moore ($520,000) - 57 receptions, 724 yards, 7 touchdowns
Moore doesn't have a contract for 2009, but with just three accrued seasons in the NFL, he'll be a restricted free agent in the off-season.
More Saints-Packers notes
As long as Drew Brees remains healthy, the Saints have a shot against anyone in the NFL, writes Peter Finney. Saints running back Deuce McAllister set a franchise record with his 54th career touchdown.
Green Bay's secondary was shredded on Monday night. Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers isn't to blame for the loss, but he didn't help. A handful of Packers were injured during last night's game, including right tackle Mark Tauscher. ESPN's Tony Kornheiser wouldn't stop talking about #4.
AFC News and Notes
The New York Jets offensive line had their best game of the season on Sunday. The Big Apple is buzzing about the possibilities of an all-New York Super Bowl.
National Football League director of football operations Gene Washington is reviewing the fight between New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light and Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder. The Patriots are using the spread offense.
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Greg Camarillo's torn ACL is a huge blow to the Dolphins offense. Dolphins linebackers Channing Crowder and Joey Porter could face in-house disciplinary action.
Buffalo Bills running backs Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson are living up to their "Beast Mode" reputations. The Bills win on Sunday kept the team's playoff hopes alive.
Don't expect anyone in the Pittsburgh Steelers secondary to guarantee a win over the New England Patriots this season. The Steelers made a change at punter.
The Baltimore Ravens have been taking care of business in the 4th quarter. The Ravens offensive line is banged up at the wrong time, writes Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun.
Cleveland Browns general manager Phil Savage and head coach Romeo Crennel are on the hot seat, writes Mary Kay Cabot in the Cleveland Plain-Dealer. Browns quarterback Brady Quinn will visit Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion on his fractured right index finger.
A pair of Cincinnati Bengals defensive ends were placed on injured reserve on Monday. Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer may need surgery on his elbow.
Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher and running back LenDale White reached an understanding on Monday. The Titans turned their focus to the Detroit Lions.
The Indianapolis Colts plan to push the Tennessee Titans in the AFC South in December.
Houston Texans defensive coordinator Richard Smith called an aggressive game on Sunday. The Texans are short on healthy running backs.
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio is already looking ahead to 2009. Jaguars running back Fred Taylor says "the mix is all wrong" when asked why the Jaguars aren't a good team.
Denver Broncos kicker Matt Prater laments his bad day on Sunday against Oakland. Invesco Field doesn't have the same homefield advantage of Mile High Stadium.
The pathetic state of the AFC West is keeping the 4-7 San Diego Chargers' playoff hopes alive. Chargers head coach Norv Turner acknowledged he made a clock management mistake in Sunday night's final minute.
Believe it or not, the Oakland Raiders are only three games behind the divison-leading Denver Broncos.
Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham is having a rough season.
NFC News and Notes
The New York Giants offense has been doing whatever it wants to do. Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress had tests performed on his hamstring on Monday.
Kevin Sherrington of the Dallas Morning News on the Dallas Cowboys: "As soon as you say something nice about these guys, it goes straight to their over-inflated heads." The DMN also looks back at the best moments of Cowboys & Thanksgiving.
The Washington Redskins offense has struggled against elite defenses, writes Barry Svrluga. Two key members of the Redskins defense had MRIs on Monday.
2008 should be Andy Reid's 10th and final season as the Philadelphia Eagles head coach, writes Bill Conlin of the Philadelphia Daily News. Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb will start on Thursday night against Arizona.
Chicago Bears rookie running back Matt Forte is 5th in the NFL in rushing. Bears running back Kevin Jones has been inactive the last few weeks due to needs on special teams.
The Minnesota Vikings passing offense lacks consistency. Vikings defensive end Ray Edwards isn't at all happy with his $25,000 fine.
Detroit Lions quarterback Drew Stanton has a concussion, meaning Drew Henson will be the #2 quarterback on Thursday against Tennessee. Lions head coach Rod Marinelli says they're trying to get the ball into Calvin Johnson's hands.
Atlanta Falcons defensive end John Abraham should be able to play on Sunday against San Diego, Falcons head coach Mike Smith said. Falcons rookie tackle Sam Baker is getting closer to returning from back surgery.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme doesn't expect a cut on his throwing elbow to keep him from doing anything this week. Slow starts finally caught up to the Panthers.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are about to run through a gauntlet of divisional games. The Buccaneers are getting points from their defense and special teams.
Paola Boivin of the Arizona Republic compares Arizona Cardinals running back J.J. Arrington to his 1970 Dodge Challenger. The Cardinals have turned their focus to their Thursday night game against Philadelphia.
Seattle Seahawks rookie tight end John Carlson is excited to play on Thanksgiving. The Seahawks' December 7th home game against the New England Patriots was pulled from prime time.
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting that St. Louis Rams head coach Jim Haslett has been told by Rams ownership that he needs to win a couple of games to be retained as head coach in 2009. Rams guard Richie Incognito won't be disciplined for taunting Rams fans in recent days.
Under new head coach Mike Singletary, the San Francisco 49ers have improved in several areas. 49ers rookie guard Chilo Rachal will start against Buffalo on Sunday.
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