Here's the official injury/participation report for Wednesday, September 30, 2009:
Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots
Baltimore
Did not participate: DE Trevor Pryce (illness), QB Troy Smith (illness)
Limited participation: DE Justin Bannan (knee), LB Tavares Gooden (shoulder, concussion), LB Ray Lewis (concussion), TE Todd Heap (back), LB Jarrett Johnson (shoulder), WR Kelley Washington (groin)
New England
Did not participate: T Nick Kaczur (ankle), LB Jerod Mayo (knee), NT Vince Wilfork (ankle)
Limited participation: CB Darius Butler (thigh), WR Randy Moss (back), WR Matt Slater (elbow), CB Shawn Springs (knee), WR Wes Welker (knee), CB Jonathan Wilhite (groin), DT Mike Wright (shoulder)
Full participation: QB Tom Brady (right shoulder)
Buffalo Bills at Miami Dolphins
Buffalo
Did not participate: T Demetrius Bell (groin), DT John McCargo (calf), CB Leodis McKelvin (fibula), LB Paul Posluszny (forearm), S Bryan Scott (ankle), S Donte Whitner (thumb), DT Kyle Williams (groin)
Limited participation: TE Shawn Nelson (shoulder)
Miami
Did not participate: LB Joey Porter (hamstring)
Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns
Cincinnati
OUT: T Andre Smith (foot)
Did not participate: RB Cedric Benson (knee), LB Adbul Hodge (knee), DT Tank Johnson (foot), CB Jonathan Joseph (foot), S Chinedum Ndukwe (hamstring), LB Rey Maualuga (knee)
Limited participation: CB David Jones (foot), DT Domata Peko (neck), S Roy Williams (forearm)
Full participation: T Andrew Whitworth (Achilles)
Cleveland
Did not participate: DE Kenyon Coleman (groin), K Phil Dawson (right calf), RB Jamal Lewis (hamstring), G Floyd Womack (ankle)
Limited participation: LB David Bowens (knee), G Rex Hadnot (knee), DT Shaun Rogers (foot), G Eric Steinbach (knee), DE Corey Williams (knee), LB Kamerion Wimbley (shoulder)
Full participation: CB Eric Wright (hand), P Dave Zastudil (right knee)
Dallas Cowboys at Denver Broncos
Dallas
Did not participate: S Michael Hamlin (wrist), LB Curtis Johnson (hamstring), RB Felix Jones (knee)
Limited participation: RB Marion Barber (thigh)
Full participation: T Flozell Adams (shoulder), LB DeMarcus Ware (neck), LB Jason Williams (ankle)
Denver
Practice not complete
Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears
Detroit
Did not participate: RB Kevin Smith (shoulder), DE Dwayne White (hamstring), DT Sammie Lee Hill (ankle), S Kalvin Pearson (quad)
Limited participation: DE Cliff Avril (hamstring), DT Grady Jackson (knee), LB Ernie Sims (shoulder), CB Eric King (shoulder)
Full participation: QB Drew Stanton (knee)
Chicago
Did not participate: LB Lance Briggs (foot), LB Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee), DE Alex Brown (ankle), LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (rib)
Limited participation: DT Anthony Adams (knee), TE Desmond Clark (rib), RB Matt Forte (knee), DT Tommie Harris (knee), DT Israel Idonije (knee), LS Patrick Mannelly (lower arm)
Full participation: G Frank Omiyale (ankle)
New York Giants at Kansas City Chiefs
NY Giants
Did not participate: RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot), DT Chris Canty (calf), DE Justin Tuck (shoulder), RB Danny Ware (elbow)
Limited participation: CB Kevin Dockery (hamstring), WR Domenik Hixon (knee), CB Aaron Ross (hamstring), LB Clint Sintim (groin), WR Hakeem Nicks (foot)
Full participation: C Adam Koets (ankle), RT Kareem McKenzie (knee)
Kansas City
Did not participate: WR Dwayne Bowe (hamstring)
Full participation: LB Derrick Johnson (groin)
New York Jets at New Orleans
NY Jets
Did not participate: CB Lito Sheppard (quad), CB Donald Strickland (ankle, S Jim Leonhard (knee), LB Larry Izzo (hamstring), T Wayne Hunter (not injury-related)
Limited participation: CB Darrelle Revis (hamstring), S Kerry Rhodes (knee)
Full participation: DT Sione Pouha (ankle), G Matt Slauson (ankle), T Damien Woody (shoulder), WR Wallace Wright (quad), NT Kris Jenkins (groin),
New Orleans
Did not participate: RB Mike Bell (knee), DT Kendrick Clancy (knee), TE Darnell Dinkins (foot), T Jermon Bushrod (ankle), CB Malcolm Jenkins (ankle), LS Jason Kyle (knee, ankle), DE Bobby McCray (back)
Limited participaton: WR Lance Moore (hamstring), WR Rod Harper (foot)
Oakland Raiders at Houston Texans
Oakland
Practice not complete
Houston
Did not participate: TE Joel Dreessen (hip), CB Antwaun Molden (quad), CB Jacques Reeves (finger)
Limited participation: WR David Anderson (back), RB Chris Brown (shin), DT Shaun Cody (knee), DT Amobi Okoye (back)
Full participation: LB Brian Cushing (shoulder), WR Andre Davis (concussion)
San Diego Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers
San Diego
Practice not complete
Pittsburgh
Did not participate: C Justin Hartwig (ankle), TE David Johnson (ankle), RB Willie Parker (toe), S Troy Polamalu (knee), WR Hines Ward (not injury related)
Full participation: TE Matt Spaeth (hip)
St. Louis Rams at San Francisco 49ers
St. Louis
OUT: S James Butler (knee)
Did not participate: T Jason Smith (knee), QB Marc Bulger (right shoulder)
Limited participation: T Alex Barron (thigh), CB Ronald Bartell (thigh)
San Francisco
Practice not complete
Seattle Seahawks at Indianapolis Colts
Seattle
OUT: LB Leroy Hill (groin), T Sean Locklear (ankle)
Did not participate: CB Jordan Babineaux (shoulder), T Brandon Frye (groin), FB Justin Griffith (knee), QB Matt Hasselbeck (rib), T Walter Jones (knee), G Rob Sims (oblique)
Limited participation: CB Ken Lucas (groin), CB Josh Wilson (ankle)
Full participation: LB Lofa Tatupu (hamstring)
Indianapolis
Did not participate: LB Gary Brackett (knee), DT Keyunta Dawson (foot), DE Dwight Freeney (quad), WR Anthony Gonzalez (knee), CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring), S Bob Sanders (knee), CB Chad Simpson (abdomen)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Washington Redskins
Tampa Bay
Did not participate: DE Gaines Adams (groin), C Jeff Faine (triceps), QB Byron Leftwich (hip), DE Kyle Moore (knee), RB Derrick Ward (knee)
Limited participation: WR Antonio Bryant (knee), CB Torrie Cox (ankle), RB Earnest Graham (hamstring), WR Maurice Stovall (knee)
Full participation: DT Roy Miller (ankle), RB Clifton Smith (quad), RB Cadillac Williams (knee)
Washington
Did not participate: DT Albert Haynesworth (glute), RB Clinton Portis (calf), CB Carlos Rogers (ankle), FB Mike Sellers (thigh)
Tennessee Titans at Jacksonville Jaguars
Tennessee
OUT: S Vincent Fuller (forearm)
Did not participate: CB Cortland Finnegan (hamstring), DT Jason Jones (shoulder), LB Stanford Keglar (hamstring), RB LenDale White (illness)
Jacksonville
OUT: DT Greg Peterson (knee)
Did not participate: T Eben Britton (knee), S Sean Considine (groin), DT Terrance Knighton (ankle), DT Derek Landri (illness), RB Montell Owens (illness), LB Adam Seward (groin)
Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings (1st practice for MNF games is on Thursday)
Green Bay
Minnesota
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Revisiting the Randy Moss-to-New England Trade
Oakland Raiders defensive back John Bowie, who was chosen with the 2007 4th round pick (110th overall) the Raiders acquired from the New England Patriots in exchange for Randy Moss, was "waived/injured" today, prompting ESPN.com's Adam Schefter to "Tweet" the following two entries:
"Trade now final. Raiders waived DB John Bowie, player they drafted in 4th round with pick they got from New England for WR Randy Moss.
"A co worker from ESPN just emailed me back on Moss-Bowie deal. Emailed: "Worst. Trade. Ever." Well, it's certainly in the discussion."
Bowie's involvement in this trade has always been unfair. It wasn't his fault that the Raiders chose to forever link him to Moss, and given how Moss "rebounded", i.e. starting trying again as soon as he was linked to a Hall of Fame quarterback, anything short of Bowie becoming a perennial Pro Bowl cornerback would've made the trade on that people like Schefter characterized as being in the discussion for the "Worst. Trade. Ever.".
Besides throwing a player a player like Bowie under the bus, there's been a weird remembrance of the circumstances involving the Raiders' decision to trade Moss, namely that he had quit on the team in 2006.
Repeat: Randy Moss quit on his team in 2006.
Moss openly admitted in 2007 that he had lost interest in the game during the '06 season, which certainly came as no surprise to anyone who had watched a Raiders game that season. Moss dogged it on routes, ran at half-speed, and basically stole money from the Raiders that season.
Any NFL analyst, like Schefter for example, would be quick to point out that the sooner you can get a player like that (disinterested in playing, makes a ton of money) off your roster and payroll, the better.
Complicating the Raiders effort to trade Moss was that he had two years and $21 million dollars remaining on his contract, and anyone trading for the then-30 year old wide receiver who again, had quit on his team and had everyone wondering if he had lost more than a step in his advanced age, would have to re-visit his contract and guarantee him some money.
I don't wish to defend Al Davis or the Oakland Raiders, but that they got anything for Moss was a miracle.
And fans and media should remember the circumstances at that time when evaluating this trade, and not be blinded by how Moss rebounded in 2007.
Then again, Moss did get more than a few votes for the "Comeback Player of the Year" award in 2007, so there's a fat chance of that happening. Had Moss won that award, he would've been the first player to ever overcome the crippling condition known as "being bored while making $8.25 million dollars" to earn that honor.
"Trade now final. Raiders waived DB John Bowie, player they drafted in 4th round with pick they got from New England for WR Randy Moss.
"A co worker from ESPN just emailed me back on Moss-Bowie deal. Emailed: "Worst. Trade. Ever." Well, it's certainly in the discussion."
Bowie's involvement in this trade has always been unfair. It wasn't his fault that the Raiders chose to forever link him to Moss, and given how Moss "rebounded", i.e. starting trying again as soon as he was linked to a Hall of Fame quarterback, anything short of Bowie becoming a perennial Pro Bowl cornerback would've made the trade on that people like Schefter characterized as being in the discussion for the "Worst. Trade. Ever.".
Besides throwing a player a player like Bowie under the bus, there's been a weird remembrance of the circumstances involving the Raiders' decision to trade Moss, namely that he had quit on the team in 2006.
Repeat: Randy Moss quit on his team in 2006.
Moss openly admitted in 2007 that he had lost interest in the game during the '06 season, which certainly came as no surprise to anyone who had watched a Raiders game that season. Moss dogged it on routes, ran at half-speed, and basically stole money from the Raiders that season.
Any NFL analyst, like Schefter for example, would be quick to point out that the sooner you can get a player like that (disinterested in playing, makes a ton of money) off your roster and payroll, the better.
Complicating the Raiders effort to trade Moss was that he had two years and $21 million dollars remaining on his contract, and anyone trading for the then-30 year old wide receiver who again, had quit on his team and had everyone wondering if he had lost more than a step in his advanced age, would have to re-visit his contract and guarantee him some money.
I don't wish to defend Al Davis or the Oakland Raiders, but that they got anything for Moss was a miracle.
And fans and media should remember the circumstances at that time when evaluating this trade, and not be blinded by how Moss rebounded in 2007.
Then again, Moss did get more than a few votes for the "Comeback Player of the Year" award in 2007, so there's a fat chance of that happening. Had Moss won that award, he would've been the first player to ever overcome the crippling condition known as "being bored while making $8.25 million dollars" to earn that honor.
Packers' Woodson to be Named NFC Defensive Player of the Month
Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson will be been named the NFC's Defensive Player of the Month, Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press-Gazette reports.
Woodson had three interceptions in September, returning one 37 yards for a touchdown.
This will be the second consecutive September where Woodson has won this award.
Woodson had three interceptions in September, returning one 37 yards for a touchdown.
This will be the second consecutive September where Woodson has won this award.
Flozell Adams Should Be Suspended, Ctd.
Dallas Cowboys left tackle Flozell Adams has been fined $7,500 for his attempted trip of Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers.
Adams has been fined $25,000 thus far this season.
At some point, the NFL will give him the "big fine", a.k.a dock him one game check by suspending him.
Adams has been fined $25,000 thus far this season.
At some point, the NFL will give him the "big fine", a.k.a dock him one game check by suspending him.
Mangini Names Derek Anderson the Starter
Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini has named Derek Anderson the starting quarterback for this Sunday's against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Anderson replaced Brady Quinn during Sunday's 34-3 loss to the Baltimore Ravens and went 11-for-19 for 92 yards and 3 interceptions.
The 6-6, 230-pound signal-caller from Oregon State started 27 games for the Browns between 2006-08 before losing this summer's quarterback competition to Quinn, who had completed 60.8% of his passes, but for just 400 yards. Quinn had also been sacked 10 times in 84 attempts.
For his career, Anderson has completed 54.7% of his passes for 6,287 yards, 38 touchdowns and 37 interceptions, for a passer rating of 73.7.
By making the switch to Anderson, one wonders whether or not Quinn, the team's first-round pick in 2007, has a future with the team.
Anderson replaced Brady Quinn during Sunday's 34-3 loss to the Baltimore Ravens and went 11-for-19 for 92 yards and 3 interceptions.
The 6-6, 230-pound signal-caller from Oregon State started 27 games for the Browns between 2006-08 before losing this summer's quarterback competition to Quinn, who had completed 60.8% of his passes, but for just 400 yards. Quinn had also been sacked 10 times in 84 attempts.
For his career, Anderson has completed 54.7% of his passes for 6,287 yards, 38 touchdowns and 37 interceptions, for a passer rating of 73.7.
By making the switch to Anderson, one wonders whether or not Quinn, the team's first-round pick in 2007, has a future with the team.
NFL News and Notes - September 30, 2009
Here's your daily spin around the NFL:
Statistically-speaking, the New England Patriots defense has been stingy this season.
Buffalo Bills second-round defensive back Jairus Byrd will start on Sunday against Miami.
When it comes to which of their running backs has his number called, New York Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer is riding the hot back.
The Miami Dolphins acquired quarterback Tyler Thigpen from Kansas City for an undisclosed draft choice.
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Reggie Kelly, on injured reserve with a ruptured Achilles' tendon, is mentoring the team's young tight ends on the roster.
Cleveland Browns fans are losing faith in head coach Eric Mangini, writes Terry Pluto of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer.
Members of the Baltimore Ravens are honoring O.J. Brigance, the team's director of player development who is fighting ALS, by doing the dance he once did as the Ravens' special teams ace after they make a big play.
The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed fullback Cary Davis on Tuesday after putting rookie fullback Frank Summers on injured reserve.
The Houston Texans defense is dead-last on 3rd and 4th downs.
Jacksonville Jaguars offensive guard Maurice Williams' favorite teammate was Tony Boselli, who he learned a lot from.
Placing punter Craig Hentrich on injured reserve was just one of many roster moves the Tennessee Titans made on Tuesday.
Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star writes that while the Indianapolis Colts look great, history tells him that he can't trust his eyes.
The Denver Broncos schedule is about to get very difficult.
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Todd Haley is having trouble finding the right combination on the offensive line.
The San Diego Chargers are suing former linebacker Steve Foley to recoup a portion of his signing bonus.
Cornerback/return specialist Justin Miller is on his way back to the Oakland Raiders.
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Anthony Spencer hasn't been effective as a pass-rusher, which is affecting DeMarcus Ware.
New York Giants running back Gartrell Johnson impressed his new head coach on Sunday.
By re-signing with the Philadelphia Eagles on Tuesday, linebacker Jeremiah Trotter's dream has come true.
The mother of late Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor is in financial trouble.
Special teams demon Darrell McClover has re-signed with the Chicago Bears.
Busy day for the Detroit Lions, who re-signed defensive tackle Chuck Darby, released cornerback Marcus McCauley, and made two practice squads moves, as well.
Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews was drafted in the first round to make splash plays in big games.
Minnesota Vikings first-round wide receiver Percy Harvin was named the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week.
Mark Bradley of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution wonders if Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith coached scared in Foxborough last Sunday.
Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer thinks it's time for the Carolina Panthers to start Matt Moore at quarterback.
New Orleans Saints left tackle Jammal Brown was placed on season-ending injured reserve on Tuesday.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Johnson is going to need some help to do what the organization is asking him to do, writes Gary Shelton of the St. Petersburg Times.
Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic lists five reasons for optimism and pessimism concerning the Arizona Cardinals.
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh isn't getting the ball in key situations, writes Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times.
St. Louis Rams linebacker David Vobora has been suspended for four games for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs.
San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray McDonald has a knack for blocking kicks.
Today's NFL birthdays: Bears defensive end Jarron Gilbert (23), Bengals guard Jason Shirley (24), Packers fullback Quinn Johnson (24), Colts wide receiver Taj Smith-Wilson (26), Steelers linebacker Arnold Harrison (27), 49ers defensive end Justin Smith (30), Rams linebacker Chris Chamberlain (23), Redskins linebacker H.B. Blades (25), as well as free agent cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones (26).Cornerback/return specialist Justin Miller is on his way back to the Oakland Raiders.
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Anthony Spencer hasn't been effective as a pass-rusher, which is affecting DeMarcus Ware.
New York Giants running back Gartrell Johnson impressed his new head coach on Sunday.
By re-signing with the Philadelphia Eagles on Tuesday, linebacker Jeremiah Trotter's dream has come true.
The mother of late Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor is in financial trouble.
Special teams demon Darrell McClover has re-signed with the Chicago Bears.
Busy day for the Detroit Lions, who re-signed defensive tackle Chuck Darby, released cornerback Marcus McCauley, and made two practice squads moves, as well.
Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews was drafted in the first round to make splash plays in big games.
Minnesota Vikings first-round wide receiver Percy Harvin was named the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week.
Mark Bradley of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution wonders if Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith coached scared in Foxborough last Sunday.
Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer thinks it's time for the Carolina Panthers to start Matt Moore at quarterback.
New Orleans Saints left tackle Jammal Brown was placed on season-ending injured reserve on Tuesday.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Johnson is going to need some help to do what the organization is asking him to do, writes Gary Shelton of the St. Petersburg Times.
Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic lists five reasons for optimism and pessimism concerning the Arizona Cardinals.
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh isn't getting the ball in key situations, writes Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times.
St. Louis Rams linebacker David Vobora has been suspended for four games for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs.
San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray McDonald has a knack for blocking kicks.
Rams Cut DT Hollis Thomas
ESPN.com's NFC West reporter Mike Sando reports that the St. Louis Rams have released veteran defensive tackle Hollis Thomas.
Sando notes that Thomas "had played sparingly" this season, so the roster move shouldn't have a major impact on the defense.
The 14-year veteran, and St. Louis native, had made two tackles in three games.
Sando notes that Thomas "had played sparingly" this season, so the roster move shouldn't have a major impact on the defense.
The 14-year veteran, and St. Louis native, had made two tackles in three games.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Rams Sign WR Nate Jones Off Practice Squad
The St. Louis Rams worked out a pair of free agent wide receivers, Courtney Taylor and Larry Beavers, before elevating first-year wide receiver Nate Jones to the 53-man roster off their practice squad.
Jones has yet to appear in an NFL game.
Jones has yet to appear in an NFL game.
When You Spend $1.25B on a Building, Ctd
Sportsbooks, like Playblackjack.com, will take bets on whether or not someone will hit your big TV with a punt.
Lions Do Some Roster Shuffling
The Detroit Lions have announced that they have re-signed defensive tackle Chuck Darby, and released cornerback Marcus McCauley.
The Lions have also signed rookie wide receiver Taurus Johnson and rookie cornerback DeAndre Wright to the practice squad, releasing tight end Carson Butler and wide receiver John Broussard.
Darby (6-0, 302) originally joined the Lions in 2008, starting 15 games and making 32 tackles with 1.5 quarterback sack. Darby is an 8-year veteran, beginning his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he earned a Super Bowl ring in 2002, before joining the Seattle Seahawks in 2005.
The Lions have also signed rookie wide receiver Taurus Johnson and rookie cornerback DeAndre Wright to the practice squad, releasing tight end Carson Butler and wide receiver John Broussard.
Darby (6-0, 302) originally joined the Lions in 2008, starting 15 games and making 32 tackles with 1.5 quarterback sack. Darby is an 8-year veteran, beginning his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he earned a Super Bowl ring in 2002, before joining the Seattle Seahawks in 2005.
Chiefs Sign TE Leonard Pope
The Kansas City Chiefs have signed free agent tight end Leonard Pope, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Pope (6-8, 260) was a former third-round pick (72nd overall) out of Georgia by the Arizona Cardinals in 2006. He started 25 of his 42 career games with the Cardinals, catching 48 passes for 476 yards and 5 touchdowns.
The knock on Pope has been his work ethic, inconsistent hands and, despite his imposing size, he is not a very good blocker. A restricted free agent this past off-season, the Cardinals tendered Pope at the right-of-first refusal level ($1.01M). However, the team released him in their final cut down to the 53-man roster.
By signing in Kansas City, Pope is reunited with his former offensive coordinator, Todd Haley, now the head coach of the Chiefs.
Pope (6-8, 260) was a former third-round pick (72nd overall) out of Georgia by the Arizona Cardinals in 2006. He started 25 of his 42 career games with the Cardinals, catching 48 passes for 476 yards and 5 touchdowns.
The knock on Pope has been his work ethic, inconsistent hands and, despite his imposing size, he is not a very good blocker. A restricted free agent this past off-season, the Cardinals tendered Pope at the right-of-first refusal level ($1.01M). However, the team released him in their final cut down to the 53-man roster.
By signing in Kansas City, Pope is reunited with his former offensive coordinator, Todd Haley, now the head coach of the Chiefs.
Rams' Vobora Suspended Four Games
ESPN.com's NFC West reporter Mike Sando reports that St. Louis Rams linebacker David Vobora has been suspended four games by the NFL for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs.
Sando's report included the following statement from Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo:
"Dave’s situation is unfortunate. He has been a vital part of our team, and we are disappointed that we will be without him for the next four games. However, we respect the League’s decision in this matter."
Sando's report included the following statement from Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo:
"Dave’s situation is unfortunate. He has been a vital part of our team, and we are disappointed that we will be without him for the next four games. However, we respect the League’s decision in this matter."
Sprained PCL for Felix Jones
Dallas Cowboys running back Felix Jones has a sprained PCL in his left knee, reports Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News.
The timetable for his return is unknown, but he'll most certainly miss next Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos.
Dallas has a bye the following week, after which they could get both Jones and Marion Barber, who missed last night's game with a quad injury, back to full strength.
Tashard Choice is currently the only healthy running back on the 53-man roster, but the Cowboys do have Chauncey Washington on their practice squad.
The timetable for his return is unknown, but he'll most certainly miss next Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos.
Dallas has a bye the following week, after which they could get both Jones and Marion Barber, who missed last night's game with a quad injury, back to full strength.
Tashard Choice is currently the only healthy running back on the 53-man roster, but the Cowboys do have Chauncey Washington on their practice squad.
Eagles Release QB Jeff Garcia
To make room for linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, the Philadelphia Eagles released quarterback Jeff Garcia, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Garcia was signed after starting quarterback Donovan McNabb fractured a rib during the Eagles' season-opening win at Carolina. That injury, the release of A.J. Feeley before the season, and Michael Vick's suspension, left the Eagles with nobody to back-up third-year quarterback Kevin Kolb, who has started the last two games for Philadelphia.
Garcia received $50,000 to sign with Philadelphia and was guaranteed two weeks of his $845,000 salary, or just under $100K, which he's already been paid. His total haul was $149,412.
Garcia was signed after starting quarterback Donovan McNabb fractured a rib during the Eagles' season-opening win at Carolina. That injury, the release of A.J. Feeley before the season, and Michael Vick's suspension, left the Eagles with nobody to back-up third-year quarterback Kevin Kolb, who has started the last two games for Philadelphia.
Garcia received $50,000 to sign with Philadelphia and was guaranteed two weeks of his $845,000 salary, or just under $100K, which he's already been paid. His total haul was $149,412.
Titans Hosting Cornerbacks
Tennessee Titans cornerbacks Cortland Finnegan and Vincent Fuller were injured in Sunday's 24-17 loss to the New York Jets. Fuller, the team's nickel corner, expected to miss 4-to-6 weeks with a broken forearm.
Today, the Titans re-signed cornerback Cary Williams to their practice squad and are working out veteran cornerbacks Eric Green and Rod Hood.
Green and Hood were teammates on the Arizona Cardinals the last two years.
Hood signed a 5-year, $15M deal with Arizona after spending the first five years of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, who signed him as an undrafted free agent out of Auburn in 2003. He started 30 games for the Cardinals over the last two years before being released in the off-season. For his career, he's made 218 tackles, has 1 quarterback sack and 11 interceptions, including a career-high 5 in 2007, two of which were returned for touchdowns.
Arizona released Hood after the 2009 NFL Draft.
Hood went to training camp with the Cleveland Browns, who released him when they cut down to 75 players on August 31. He was signed by the Chicago Bears on September 1, but was released just three days later.
Green, 27, was a third-round pick (75th overall) out of Virginia Tech by the Cardinals in 2005. He started 33 games during his career, making 167 tackles and picked off a pair of passes.
As an unrestricted free agent this off-season, Green signed a multi-year deal with the Miami Dolphins, who released him during training camp as second-round cornerback Sean Smith outplayed Green to earn the starting job. Green then signed with the San Francisco 49ers, who released before the start of the regular season.
Today, the Titans re-signed cornerback Cary Williams to their practice squad and are working out veteran cornerbacks Eric Green and Rod Hood.
Green and Hood were teammates on the Arizona Cardinals the last two years.
Hood signed a 5-year, $15M deal with Arizona after spending the first five years of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, who signed him as an undrafted free agent out of Auburn in 2003. He started 30 games for the Cardinals over the last two years before being released in the off-season. For his career, he's made 218 tackles, has 1 quarterback sack and 11 interceptions, including a career-high 5 in 2007, two of which were returned for touchdowns.
Arizona released Hood after the 2009 NFL Draft.
Hood went to training camp with the Cleveland Browns, who released him when they cut down to 75 players on August 31. He was signed by the Chicago Bears on September 1, but was released just three days later.
Green, 27, was a third-round pick (75th overall) out of Virginia Tech by the Cardinals in 2005. He started 33 games during his career, making 167 tackles and picked off a pair of passes.
As an unrestricted free agent this off-season, Green signed a multi-year deal with the Miami Dolphins, who released him during training camp as second-round cornerback Sean Smith outplayed Green to earn the starting job. Green then signed with the San Francisco 49ers, who released before the start of the regular season.
Colts DE Freeney to Miss 2-to-3 Weeks
Indianapolis Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney has a right quad injury that will keep him sidelined for two-to-three weeks.
The injury is described as a "strain".
Who benefits the most from this injury? Offensive tackle Brandon Frye, who three weeks ago was released by the Miami Dolphins but is now the starting left tackle for the Seattle Seahawks, who are waiting for the return of future Hall of Famer Walter Jones from microfracture surgery and lost his replacement, Sean Locklear, to a high ankle sprain in Week 2.
The Colts host the Seahawks at 1pm ET on Sunday.
The injury is described as a "strain".
Who benefits the most from this injury? Offensive tackle Brandon Frye, who three weeks ago was released by the Miami Dolphins but is now the starting left tackle for the Seattle Seahawks, who are waiting for the return of future Hall of Famer Walter Jones from microfracture surgery and lost his replacement, Sean Locklear, to a high ankle sprain in Week 2.
The Colts host the Seahawks at 1pm ET on Sunday.
Eagles Sign LB Jeremiah Trotter
Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com is reporting that the Philadelphia Eagles have signed veteran free agent linebacker Jeremiah Trotter to a one-year deal.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Trotter, 32, was a former third-round pick (72nd overall) by the Eagles in the 1998 NFL Draft. Trotter had two stints in Philadelphia (1998-2001, 2004-06), broken up by a two-year stint with the Washington Redskins.
Trotter spent the 2007 season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was out of football in 2008.
During his career, Trotter was named to four Pro Bowls (2000-01, 2004-05) and was a two-time All-Pro (2000-01).
For his career, the middle linebacker from Stephen F. Austin has made 931 tackles (unofficial numbers), has 12.5 quarterback sacks and 9 interceptions.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Trotter, 32, was a former third-round pick (72nd overall) by the Eagles in the 1998 NFL Draft. Trotter had two stints in Philadelphia (1998-2001, 2004-06), broken up by a two-year stint with the Washington Redskins.
Trotter spent the 2007 season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was out of football in 2008.
During his career, Trotter was named to four Pro Bowls (2000-01, 2004-05) and was a two-time All-Pro (2000-01).
For his career, the middle linebacker from Stephen F. Austin has made 931 tackles (unofficial numbers), has 12.5 quarterback sacks and 9 interceptions.
Flozell Adams Should Be Suspended
Dallas Cowboys left tackle was fined $5,000 for unnecessary roughness penalty after the season-opener in Tampa Bay, and $12,500 after kicking two New York Giants in Week 2, one of which caused a shoulder injury to Justin Tuck.
Last night, Adams did this.
As a repeat offender, a fine will not suffice.
Adams' deliberate attempt to trip Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers, which easily could've caused a strained groin--or worse--warrants a one-game vacation.
(Thank you to "Wellington" at BigBlueInteractive.com for the .gif)
Last night, Adams did this.
As a repeat offender, a fine will not suffice.
Adams' deliberate attempt to trip Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers, which easily could've caused a strained groin--or worse--warrants a one-game vacation.
(Thank you to "Wellington" at BigBlueInteractive.com for the .gif)
Chiefs Trade Thigpen to Miami
The Kansas City-Miami pipeline continues, as the Kansas City Chiefs announce that they have traded backup quarterback Tyler Thigpen to the Miami Dolphins for an undisclosed draft choice.
Thigpen started 11 games for the Chiefs in 2008, and has completed 232-of-426 pass attempts (54.5%) for 2,649 yards, with 18 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in his three-year career. Thigpen's career passer rating is 74.7, and the 6-1, 224-pounder has run for an additional 388 yards and three touchdowns.
The acquisitions earlier this off-season of Matt Cassel and Matt Gutierrez, as well as the re-emergence of Brodie Croyle, made Thigpen an expendable commodity in Kansas City.
Miami lost starter Chad Pennington for the season to a shoulder injury on Sunday, so the Dolphins were in the market for an experienced back-up behind starter-of-the-future Chad Henne. With Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli married to the daughter of Dolphins' vice-president of operations Bill Parcells, they're natural trade partners.
The two personnel men connected last month on a trade that sent a pair of backup offensive linemen, Andy Alleman and Ike Ndukwe, from the Dolphins to the Chiefs.
Thigpen is signed through next season, with base salaries of $460,000 this season and $550,000 in 2010.
Thigpen started 11 games for the Chiefs in 2008, and has completed 232-of-426 pass attempts (54.5%) for 2,649 yards, with 18 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in his three-year career. Thigpen's career passer rating is 74.7, and the 6-1, 224-pounder has run for an additional 388 yards and three touchdowns.
The acquisitions earlier this off-season of Matt Cassel and Matt Gutierrez, as well as the re-emergence of Brodie Croyle, made Thigpen an expendable commodity in Kansas City.
Miami lost starter Chad Pennington for the season to a shoulder injury on Sunday, so the Dolphins were in the market for an experienced back-up behind starter-of-the-future Chad Henne. With Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli married to the daughter of Dolphins' vice-president of operations Bill Parcells, they're natural trade partners.
The two personnel men connected last month on a trade that sent a pair of backup offensive linemen, Andy Alleman and Ike Ndukwe, from the Dolphins to the Chiefs.
Thigpen is signed through next season, with base salaries of $460,000 this season and $550,000 in 2010.
Jonathan Wilhite Injury Details
From the "Rap Sheet" blog at the Boston Herald, North Attleboro police released the details of the incident that led to New England Patriots cornerback Jonathan Wilhite being inactive for Sunday's game:
“On Sunday, September 27, 2009 the North Attleboro Police responded to the Cumberland Farms store in the Attleboro Falls area of town, after receiving a call from Jonathan Wilhite concerning suspicious activity. Mr. Wilhite stated that 2 subjects were in his parking lot when he arrived home, and one approached him on foot and yelled at him.
Mr. Wilhite became concerned and ran to Cumberland Farms where he asked the clerk to call police. He did mention that he had pulled his groin while he was running. The matter remains under investigation by North Attleboro Detectives.”
“On Sunday, September 27, 2009 the North Attleboro Police responded to the Cumberland Farms store in the Attleboro Falls area of town, after receiving a call from Jonathan Wilhite concerning suspicious activity. Mr. Wilhite stated that 2 subjects were in his parking lot when he arrived home, and one approached him on foot and yelled at him.
Mr. Wilhite became concerned and ran to Cumberland Farms where he asked the clerk to call police. He did mention that he had pulled his groin while he was running. The matter remains under investigation by North Attleboro Detectives.”
The Cautionary Tale of Chad Pennington
As you've not doubt heard, Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington is done for the year after dislocating his right shoulder during Sunday's loss to the San Diego Chargers.
Pennington's injury is so severe, there's even talk that Pennington, who won the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year Award and was runner-up in MVP voting in 2008, could be done for good.
Hearing this reminds me of this quote from Pennington back in January, when he was asked, since he was coming off such a fine season, would he seek a contract extension:
"I've been in this league long enough to know to feel good about where I am right now and let that take care of itself,'' Pennington said.
Pennington was never a Pro Bowl quarterback, and he likely wasn't the Dolphins' quarterback of the future, but chances are good that he could have received a little more long-term security had he approached the Dolphins about an extension that would add a few years to the back-end of the deal and given him a chance to compete with Chad Henne for the starting job in 2010 and beyond.
Instead, he held pat.
Pennington has earned a lot of money in the NFL during his 10-year career, and he'll make $3.9 million dollars for this season, the final year of his contract. By not pushing for an extension, and then suffering a potentially-career ending injury, he's left 3-to-4 years of earning potential on the table. For a player like Pennington, that could be anywhere from $5-15 million dollars.
Players at other positions can learn what not to do from Pennington and take advantage of their productive seasons before their current deals expire.
Pennington's injury is so severe, there's even talk that Pennington, who won the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year Award and was runner-up in MVP voting in 2008, could be done for good.
Hearing this reminds me of this quote from Pennington back in January, when he was asked, since he was coming off such a fine season, would he seek a contract extension:
"I've been in this league long enough to know to feel good about where I am right now and let that take care of itself,'' Pennington said.
Pennington was never a Pro Bowl quarterback, and he likely wasn't the Dolphins' quarterback of the future, but chances are good that he could have received a little more long-term security had he approached the Dolphins about an extension that would add a few years to the back-end of the deal and given him a chance to compete with Chad Henne for the starting job in 2010 and beyond.
Instead, he held pat.
Pennington has earned a lot of money in the NFL during his 10-year career, and he'll make $3.9 million dollars for this season, the final year of his contract. By not pushing for an extension, and then suffering a potentially-career ending injury, he's left 3-to-4 years of earning potential on the table. For a player like Pennington, that could be anywhere from $5-15 million dollars.
Players at other positions can learn what not to do from Pennington and take advantage of their productive seasons before their current deals expire.
NFL News and Notes - September 29, 2009
Dallas Cowboys 21, Carolina Panthers 7
Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo didn't screw up, and that was the difference...Cowboys running back Felix Jones strained his left knee.
Going back to last year's playoffs and the preseason, the Panthers have lost 8 straight...Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith took the blame for Terence Newman's game-clinching interception.
NFL News and Notes
New England Patriots cornerback Jonathan Wilwhite's surprise showing on the inactive list may be tied to a Sunday morning invasion of his North Attleborough home that is currently under investigation by local police.
A steady stream of blitzers kept Buffalo Bills quarterback Trent Edwards off-balance on Sunday.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne is getting his opportunity to prove he's the team's quarterback of the future a bit earlier than expected.
New York Jets linebacker David Harris isn't going anywhere, according to head coach Rex Ryan.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Andre Caldwell is emerging as a clutch receiver, writes Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini is waiting another day to announce who is starting quarterback is.
Under offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, the Baltimore Ravens have the AFC's top offense in terms of yards and scoring.
Thus far, the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2008 draft class is a bust.
The Houston Texans defense is on pace to be historically bad.
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio thinks his young team will continue to improve.
Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher is sticking with Kerry Collins as his quarterback, despite his team's 0-3 start.
Indianapolis Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney underwent an MRI for his injured right quad.
Denver Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels was pleased with how physical his team is playing.
Their upcoming schedule isn't going to help the Kansas City Chiefs get their first win of the Todd Haley Era.
Improving the NFL's 31st-ranked rushing attack would help the San Diego Chargers become more efficient on offense.
Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell will start next week against Houston.
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin is optimistic that the injuries to two of his offensive linemen won't keep them out of the lineup.
Free agent middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter worked out for the Philadelphia Eagles for a second time and may be close to returning to the NFL for the first time since 2007.
Washington Redskins head coach Jim Zorn still has confidence in his team.
Chicago Bears linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer's rib injury is not serious enough to keep him out of the starting lineup this week against the upstart Lions.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz is being coy with the status of running back Kevin Smith.
Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy is excited to face Brett Favre next week.
The Minnesota Vikings' defense didn't allow a third down conversion on Sunday.
Fixing the run defense is high atop Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith's "to-do" list during the bye week.
The New Orleans Saints offensive line is a big reason why they have the NFL's second-best rushing attack this season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris is changing starting quarterbacks.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt wants to get back to basics during the team's bye week.
Seattle Seahawks head coach Jim Mora admitted he was a little too critical of kicker Olindo Mare following Sunday's loss to Chicago.
The St. Louis Rams got good injury news on quarterback Marc Bulger, but lost Laurent Robinson for the season.
San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore will miss three weeks with an ankle strain.
Today's NFL birthdays: Cardinals wide receiver Michael Ray Garvin (23), Browns linebacker Eric Barton (32), Jaguars defensive tackle Atiyyah Ellison (28), Titans defensive tackle Tony Brown (29) and safety Chris Hope (29).
Monday, September 28, 2009
Levi Jones Works Out for Packers
Veteran free agent offensive tackle Levi Jones worked out today for the Green Bay Packers, reports the NFL Network's Jason La Canfora.
La Canfora adds that a contract is not imminent.
Jones, 30, has been on the free agent market since being released by the Cincinnati Bengals during the off-season. The former Arizona State standout has started 89 games during his seven-year career since being chosen with the 10th overall pick of the 2002 NFL Draft.
Injuries have limited Jones to just 28 games over the last three seasons. His inability to stay healthy, along with his high salary and the selection of Andre Smith, is what prompted the Bengals to release, despite taking a hefty hit to their '09 salary cap.
Jones has remained a free agent primarily because he has been seeking a starting job, and to be paid like a starting left tackle. Thus far, no team has been willing to do either.
La Canfora adds that a contract is not imminent.
Jones, 30, has been on the free agent market since being released by the Cincinnati Bengals during the off-season. The former Arizona State standout has started 89 games during his seven-year career since being chosen with the 10th overall pick of the 2002 NFL Draft.
Injuries have limited Jones to just 28 games over the last three seasons. His inability to stay healthy, along with his high salary and the selection of Andre Smith, is what prompted the Bengals to release, despite taking a hefty hit to their '09 salary cap.
Jones has remained a free agent primarily because he has been seeking a starting job, and to be paid like a starting left tackle. Thus far, no team has been willing to do either.
49ers' Gore to Miss Three Weeks
An MRI on San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore's ankle revealed a right ankle strain and a right heel strain, two injuries that will keep Gore out for approximately three weeks.
Gore is currently 8th in the NFL in rushing with 241 yards through three weeks.
With him out, third-round rookie Glen Coffee should assume the starting duties. After a promising preseason (249 yards, 5.9 avg.), Coffee has gained just 64 yards on his 35 carries, for a dismal 1.8 average.
The 49ers host the St. Louis Rams and their 27th-ranked run defense next Sunday.
Gore is currently 8th in the NFL in rushing with 241 yards through three weeks.
With him out, third-round rookie Glen Coffee should assume the starting duties. After a promising preseason (249 yards, 5.9 avg.), Coffee has gained just 64 yards on his 35 carries, for a dismal 1.8 average.
The 49ers host the St. Louis Rams and their 27th-ranked run defense next Sunday.
Patriots Sign DT Terdell Sands
Veteran defensive tackle Terdell Sands signed with the New England Patriots on Monday.
Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork suffered a sprained ankle in Sunday's 26-10 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Sands, who is 6-7 and 335 pounds, would add considerable size to the interior of New England's defensive line.
In 7 NFL seasons, most of which with the Oakland Raiders, Sands has 129 tackles and 4 quarterback sacks.
To make room for Sands on the 53-man roster, the Patriots released linebacker Prescott Burgess, who was acquired from the Baltimore Ravens last week.
Financial terms of Sands' deal with New England are unknown.
Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork suffered a sprained ankle in Sunday's 26-10 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Sands, who is 6-7 and 335 pounds, would add considerable size to the interior of New England's defensive line.
In 7 NFL seasons, most of which with the Oakland Raiders, Sands has 129 tackles and 4 quarterback sacks.
To make room for Sands on the 53-man roster, the Patriots released linebacker Prescott Burgess, who was acquired from the Baltimore Ravens last week.
Financial terms of Sands' deal with New England are unknown.
Patriots Cornerback Injured in "Police Matter"
New England Patriots cornerback Jonathan Wilhite was inactive on Sunday, due to what his agent describes as a "police matter".
According to the Providence Journal, North Attleboro (Mass.) are investigating "an incident involving a Patriots player" that occurred over the weekend, though the authorities are prohibited from going into further detail regarding a police investigation.
Wilhite's agent, Jason Chayut, wouldn't discuss the particulars, but did say it's nothing serious.
"Basically the injury is nothing serious," said Chayut. "He'll be back at practice. The incident is not something I'm going to talk about. It's a police matter. It was nothing serious. The kid is fine."
According to the Providence Journal, North Attleboro (Mass.) are investigating "an incident involving a Patriots player" that occurred over the weekend, though the authorities are prohibited from going into further detail regarding a police investigation.
Wilhite's agent, Jason Chayut, wouldn't discuss the particulars, but did say it's nothing serious.
"Basically the injury is nothing serious," said Chayut. "He'll be back at practice. The incident is not something I'm going to talk about. It's a police matter. It was nothing serious. The kid is fine."
Rams May Lose Top WR for Season
While the news on quarterback Marc Bulger was good, St. Louis Rams wide receiver Laurent Robinson wasn't as lucky.
Robinson, who leads the Rams with 13 receptions and 167 yards, suffered a lower-leg fracture and a high ankle sprain and will likely miss the remainder of the 2009 season.
St. Louis acquired Robinson during the off-season from the Atlanta Falcons, who originally drafted him in the 3rd round (75th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft. He has one year remaining on his rookie contract.
Robinson, who leads the Rams with 13 receptions and 167 yards, suffered a lower-leg fracture and a high ankle sprain and will likely miss the remainder of the 2009 season.
St. Louis acquired Robinson during the off-season from the Atlanta Falcons, who originally drafted him in the 3rd round (75th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft. He has one year remaining on his rookie contract.
Eagles to Rotate Running Backs
One day after Philadelphia Eagles rookie running back LeSean McCoy ran for 84 yards and a touchdown, Eagles head coach Andy Reid admitted that he plans on rotating McCoy and veteran Brian Westbrook, once Westbrook's ankle complies, of course.
"He will rotate in there," Reid said. "I don’t know exactly the rotation that we would do. We would work him in there.
“I think this game helped LeSean to see where he was at with protections. He did a nice job. That’s always a concern with certain guys. … I need to do a better job of mixing him in. I should have done that with Buck [Correll Buckhalter], obviously.”
The Eagles are off this week.
"He will rotate in there," Reid said. "I don’t know exactly the rotation that we would do. We would work him in there.
“I think this game helped LeSean to see where he was at with protections. He did a nice job. That’s always a concern with certain guys. … I need to do a better job of mixing him in. I should have done that with Buck [Correll Buckhalter], obviously.”
The Eagles are off this week.
Rams' Bulger Avoided Serious Injury
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that tests performed Monday revealed that St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger did not seriously injure his throwing shoulder on Sunday.
It was thought, and reported in some places, that when Bulger was sacked in the first quarter of yesterday's loss to the Green Bay Packers, he sustained damage to his rotator cuff.
While that's not the case, Bulger's availability for next Sunday's game in San Francisco is unknown.
It was thought, and reported in some places, that when Bulger was sacked in the first quarter of yesterday's loss to the Green Bay Packers, he sustained damage to his rotator cuff.
While that's not the case, Bulger's availability for next Sunday's game in San Francisco is unknown.
ESPN: Pennington to Miss Remainder of Year
ESPN's Chris Mortensen is reporting that Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington has a "torn capsule" in his throwing shoulder and while a second opinion will be sought, Pennington will miss the remainder of the season.
Pennington was injured early in the third quarter of Sunday's 23-13 loss to the San Diego Chargers. CBS cameras captured the training stuff cutting off Pennington's jersey and shoulder pads, an indicator that Pennington's injury was painful.
With Pennington injured, the Dolphins could either go with second-year quarterback Chad Henne, who replaced Pennington on Sunday, a combination of Henne and rookie Pat White, or could look to add a veteran, either off the street or via a trade.
Pennington was injured early in the third quarter of Sunday's 23-13 loss to the San Diego Chargers. CBS cameras captured the training stuff cutting off Pennington's jersey and shoulder pads, an indicator that Pennington's injury was painful.
With Pennington injured, the Dolphins could either go with second-year quarterback Chad Henne, who replaced Pennington on Sunday, a combination of Henne and rookie Pat White, or could look to add a veteran, either off the street or via a trade.
Leftwich Demoted to 3rd QB
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Byron Leftwich has been demoted to third string, head coach Raheem Morris announced today.
Second-year quarterback Josh Johnson will start, with rookie first-rounder Josh Freeman as the #2 quarterback.
"He [Johnson] provides us more options," Morris said. "We evaluated this morning, looked at the tape, and made the decision today. He gives you the dynamic that you all know about. He creates a better chance to break out of the pocket and make a play with his feet."
Through the first three games, Leftwich had completed 54.2% of his passes for 594 yards, 3 touchdowns and two interceptions, with a passer rating of 71.2. Johnson replaced Leftwich during Sunday's 24-0 loss to the New York Giants, completing 4-of-10 passes for 36 yards and ran once for 15 yards.
The Buccaneers face the Washington Redskins (1-2) next Sunday.
Second-year quarterback Josh Johnson will start, with rookie first-rounder Josh Freeman as the #2 quarterback.
"He [Johnson] provides us more options," Morris said. "We evaluated this morning, looked at the tape, and made the decision today. He gives you the dynamic that you all know about. He creates a better chance to break out of the pocket and make a play with his feet."
Through the first three games, Leftwich had completed 54.2% of his passes for 594 yards, 3 touchdowns and two interceptions, with a passer rating of 71.2. Johnson replaced Leftwich during Sunday's 24-0 loss to the New York Giants, completing 4-of-10 passes for 36 yards and ran once for 15 yards.
The Buccaneers face the Washington Redskins (1-2) next Sunday.
NFL Week 3 Recap
Mac's Game Balls
Offense: Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis - Manning completed 24-of-35 passes for 379 yards and 4 touchdowns as the Colts cruised to an easy prime-time road win on a short week.
Defense: Kevin Burnett, LB & Eric Weddle, S, San Diego - Burnett had a team-high 12 tackles and a quarterback sack, while Weddle sealed the Chargers' win by jumping a Chad Henne pass and returning it 31 yards for a touchdown with less than 6 minutes to go in the 4th quarter.
Special Teams: Percy Harvin, WR, Minnesota - Harvin returned a kick 101 yards, untouched, for a touchdown late in the 3rd quarter. Harvin was a question mark to even play on Sunday, as he'd been dealing with the flu. But he battled through it and helped the Vikings stay perfect.
Baltimore Ravens 34, Cleveland Browns 3
Baltimore's blowout of the Browns was a total team victory...Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun grades the Ravens' performance on Sunday.
Browns head coach (for now) Eric Mangini pulled his starting quarterback, and the replacement tossed three interceptions...During this nine-game streak, the Browns are historically bad.
Detroit Lions 19, Washington Redskins 14
With their first win since December 23, 2007, the Lions got "King Kong off our back", owner William Clay Ford said afterward...Lions rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford played with confidence in himself on Sunday.
With this loss, the Redskins have officially hit rock bottom...The Redskins couldn't get their running game going against a run defense that had been struggling.
Jacksonville Jaguars 31, Houston Texans 24
The Jaguars showed on Sunday that they can be an entertaining team...Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew had a big day, running for 119 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Just when you start to believe in the Texans, they lay an egg...Texans running back Steve Slaton got going in the second half.
New England Patriots 26, Atlanta Falcons 10
Despite having an offense that struggles in the red zone, the Patriots earned an impressive win...Patriots quarterback Tom Brady tossed his 200th career touchdown pass.
The Falcons learned a valuable lesson on Sunday, writes Mark Bradley of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution...Atlanta's defense was surprised by how many times the Patriots ran the ball.
Green Bay Packers 36, St. Louis Rams 17
Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers used his feet to beat the Rams on Sunday...Packers running back Ryan Grant carried the ball 26 times for 99 yards, with most of his carries coming on first down.
This loss, coupled with the Lions win, means the St. Louis Rams now own the NFL's longest losing streak, which is at 13 games...Rams tight end Daniel Fells scored a pair of touchdowns.
New York Giants 24, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 0
Dominating defense and a pair of Eli Manning touchdowns lifted the Giants to an easy road win...Giants defensive end Justin Tuck made a surprise appearance.
Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris will start Byron Leftwich against Washington next Sunday...At 0-3, the Buccaneers "are winless. And helpless. And hopeless. And clueless.", writes Gary Shelton of the St. Petersburg Times.
New York Jets 24, Tennessee Titans 17
Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez became the first rookie quarterback to start 3-0...Jets inside linebacker David Harris is playing at Pro Bowl level.
Titans rookie cornerback Ryan Mouton owned up to his pair of special teams miscues...Two key members of the Titans' secondary were injured in yesterday's loss.
Philadelphia Eagles 34, Kansas City Chiefs 14
Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb became the first quarterback in NFL history to throw for 300+ yards in each of his first two starts...Eagles rookie running back LeSean McCoy ran for 84 yards, scored a touchdown, and more importantly, protected the football.
The Chiefs weren't competitive in their 20-point loss to the Eagles on Sunday...The Chiefs were playing without two key players, wide receiver Dwayne Bowe and linebacker Derrick Johnson.
Minnesota Vikings 27, San Francisco 49ers 24
With his former team coming to town next Monday night, Brett Favre might have a hard time topping yesterday's performance...Wide receiver Greg Lewis, dumped by two teams earlier this year and inactive the first two weeks, made his first catch with the Vikings a spectacular one.
49ers head coach Mike Singletary told his team that they'd see the Vikings again in January...The 49ers are struggling on third downs.
New Orleans Saints 27, Buffalo Bills 7
With an explosive offense somewhat held in check, the Saints' defense stepped up in the 27-7 win over Buffalo...The Saints won ugly, writes Jeff Duncan of the Times-Picayune.
Terrell Owens' streak of 185 games with a reception came to an end as the Bills couldn't do anything offensively...Bills quarterback Trent Edwards turned into "Captain Checkdown", writes Jerry Sullivan of the Buffalo News.
Chicago Bears 25, Seattle Seahawks 19
Now that the Bears have a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback, no deficit is insurmountable...The Bears' ground game was good enough to bring balance to the offense.
The Seahawks and Seneca Wallace came up short on Sunday...Seahawks head coach Jim Mora was not happy with kicker Olindo Mare, who missed a pair of field goals and could be out of a job.
Cincinnati Bengals 23, Pittsburgh Steelers 20
The Bengals rallied in the 4th quarter to upset the Steelers...Bengals rookie linebacker Rey Maualuga felt something pop in his left knee, but didn't miss a series.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin doesn't want to make a habit of blowing late-game leads...Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward passed the 10,000-yard mark.
Denver Broncos 23, Oakland Raiders 3
The Broncos defense and running game helped the Broncos and Josh McDaniels stay perfect...Facing Ryan Clady each day makes Elvis Dumervil a better pass-rusher.
Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell had a 22.6 passer rating and Darren McFadden fumbled three times...Defensive end Richard Seymour had his "Welcome to the Raiders" moment on Sunday.
San Diego Chargers 23, Miami Dolphins 13
Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers used his legs and right arm to spur the Chargers to a 23-13 win...Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman's groin limited him to just a few snaps on Sunday.
Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington suffered a right shoulder injury in Miami's loss...Now at 0-3, the season is slipping away from the Dolphins.
Indianapolis Colts 31, Arizona Cardinals 10
The Colts were nearly perfect in their second prime-time road win in six days...The short work week didn't bother the Colts, writes Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star.
Outplayed in all phases of the game, and now 0-2 at home this season, the Cardinals got an early jump on their bye week...The Cardinals were rocked on a national stage, writes Dan Bickley of the Arizona Republic.
NFL News and Notes
Dallas Cowboys running back Felix Jones should see plenty of action on Monday night.
Tonight is the pivotal point of the Carolina Panthers' season, writes Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer.
Today's NFL birthday: Saints wide receiver Robert Meachem (25), Eagles wide receiver Jordan Norwood (23), 49ers guard David Baas (28), and Rams offensive tackle Alex Barron (27).
Sunday, September 27, 2009
2009 NFL GameDay Inactive Lists - Week Three
Below are the official inactive lists for Week 3 of the 2009 NFL season:
Atlanta Falcons at New England Patriots
Atlanta QB John Parker Wilson (3rd QB), CB Tye Hill, S William Moore, RB Jerious Norwood, LB Spencer Adkins, T Will Svitek, T Garrett Reynolds, DT Vance Walker
New England WR Wes Welker, LB Prescott Burgess, CB Darius Butler, RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, LB Jerod Mayo, G Rich Ohrnberger, G Kendall Simmons, CB Jonathan Wilhite
Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens
Cleveland QB Brett Ratliff (3rd QB), G Rex Hadnot, RB Jamal Lewis, G Floyd Womack, K Phil Dawson, WR Brian Robiskie, CB Gerard Lawson, TE Greg Estandia
Baltimore QB John Beck (3rd QB), DE Paul Kruger, RB Jalen Parmele, LB Dannell Ellerbe, T Oniel Cousins, T Tony Moll, TE Tony Curtis, DT Kelly Talavou
Green Bay Packers at St. Louis Rams
Green Bay S Atari Bigby, T Chad Clifton, RB Brandon Jackson, CB Brandon Underwood, FB Quinn Johnson, LB Jeremy Thompson, T Breno Giacomini, DE Michael Montgomery
St. Louis QB Keith Null (3rd QB), S David Roach, G Roger Allen, T Jason Smith, DE Victor Adenyanju, DT Dorell Scott, S Anthony Smith, WR Ruvell Martin
Jacksonville Jaguars at Houston Texans
Jacksonville LB Adam Seward, CB Brian Witherspoon, CB William Middleton, S Courtney Greene, LB Brian Iwuh, G Kynan Forney, T Jordan Black, DE Jeremy Navarre
Houston QB Dan Orlovsky (3rd QB), CB Antwaun Molden, WR Andre Davis, S Bernard Pollard, CB Jacques Reeves, C Antoine Caldwell, TE Anthony Hill, DT Frank Okam
Kansas City Chiefs at Philadelphia Eagles
Kansas City QB Tyler Thigpen (3rd QB), QB Matt Gutierrez, WR Dwayne Bowe, WR Quinten Lawrence, CB Ricardo Colclough, LB Derrick Johnson, TE Jake O'Connell, LB Pierre Walters
Philadelphia QB Donovan McNabb, G Todd Herremans, CB Dimitri Patterson, WR Kevin Curtis, RB Brian Westbrook, S Quintin Demps, G Mike McGlynn, DE Jason Babin
New York Giants at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NY Giants DE Chris Canty, WR Hakeem Nicks, CB Aaron Ross, RB Danny Ware, LB Clint Sintim, C Adam Koets, CB Kevin Dockery, WR Domenik Hixon
Tampa Bay QB Josh Freeman (3rd QB), C Jeff Faine, DE Kyle Moore, RB Earnest Graham, T Marc Dile, T Demar Dotson, WR Maurice Stovall, DT Dre Moore
San Francisco 49ers at Minnesota Vikings
San Francisco QB Nate Davis (3rd QB), WR Brandon Jones, WR Jason Hill, CB Marcus Hudson, LB Marques Harris, C Cody Wallace, S Curtis Taylor, DE Ricky Jean-Francois
Minnesota QB Sage Rosenfels (3rd QB), LB Erin Henderson, WR Jaymar Johnson, CB Asher Allen, S Hamza Abdullah, C Kory Lichtensteiger, DT Jimmy Kennedy, DE Jayme Mitchell
Tennessee Titans at New York Jets
Tennessee QB Vince Young (3rd QB), P Craig Hentrich, TE Bo Scaife, LB Stanford Keglar, T Troy Kropog, WR Lavelle Hawkins, DT Sen'Derrick Marks, DE Dave Ball
NY Jets QB Erik Ainge (3rd QB), QB Kevin O'Connell, CB Lito Sheppard, CB Donald Strickland, LB Jamaal Westerman, G Matt Slauson, DE Rppati Pitoitua, WR David Clowney
Washington Redskins at Detroit Lions
Washington CB Kevin Barnes, OL D'Anthony Batiste, LB Robert Henson, RB Marcus Mason, WR Marko Mitchell, DT Anthony Montgomery, C Edwin Williams, DE Renaldo Wynn
Detroit QB Drew Stanton (3rd QB), DE Cliff Avril, LB Ernie Sims, CB Eric King, G Daniel Loper, CB Marcus McCauley, DE Turk McBride, T Eprhaim Salaam
4pm Games (Players listed now are 3rd QBs or players designated as "Out" on injury report)
Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals
Pittsburgh QB Dennis Dixon (3rd QB), S Troy Polamalu, FB Frank Summers, CB Keenan Lewis, G Kraig Urbik, DE Nick Eason, WR Shaun McDonald, T Tony Hills
Cincinnati QB Jordan Palmer (3rd QB), T Andre Smith, CB David Jones, S Tom Nelson, G Nate Livings, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson, DE Frostee Rucker
New Orleans Saints at Buffalo Bills
New Orleans QB Chase Daniel (3rd QB), T Jammal Brown, TE Darnell Dinkins, DT Kendrick Clancy, WR Lance Moore, RB Mike Bell, LB Jo-Lonn Dunbar, WR Rod Harper
Buffalo QB Gibran Hamdan (3rd QB),LB Paul Posluszny, CB Ellis Lankster, T Jamon Meredith, TE Shawn Nelson, WR Justin Jenkins, DE Chris Ellis, DT John McCargo
Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks
Chicago LB Pisa Tinoisamoa, WR Juaquin Iglesias, WR Devin Aromashodu, G Lance Louis, DT Matt Toeaina, TE Desmond Clark, CB D.J. Moore, CB DeAngelo Smith
Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck, LB Leroy Hill, T Sean Locklear, CB Josh Wilson, T Walter Jones, FB Justin Griffith, DE Michael Bennett, LB Lofa Tatupu
Miami Dolphins at San Diego Chargers
Miami QB Chad Henne (3rd QB), T Andrew Gardner, S Chris Clemons, LB Erik Walden, TE John Nalbone, DE Lionel Dotson, WR Patrick Turner, G Shawn Murphy
San Diego QB Charlie Whitehurst (3rd QB), RB LaDainian Tomlinson, C Nick Hardwick, G Louis Vasquez, LB Antwan Applewhite, DT Travis Johnson, S C.J. Spillman, WR Craig Davis
Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders
Denver QB Tom Brandstater (3rd QB), LB Spencer Larsen, WR Brandon Lloyd, T Brandon Gorin, DE Jarvis Moss, WR Kenny McKinley, G Seth Olsen, DE Chris Baker
Oakland QB Charlie Frye (3rd QB), G Robert Gallery, WR Nick Miller, WR Chaz Schilens, S Hiram Eugene, WR Javon Walker, G Paul McQuistan, TE Brandon Myers
Indianapolis Colts at Arizona Cardinals
Indianapolis WR Anthony Gonzalez, S Bob Sanders,
Arizona QB Brian St. Pierre (3rd QB), DE Kenny Iwebema
Atlanta Falcons at New England Patriots
Atlanta QB John Parker Wilson (3rd QB), CB Tye Hill, S William Moore, RB Jerious Norwood, LB Spencer Adkins, T Will Svitek, T Garrett Reynolds, DT Vance Walker
New England WR Wes Welker, LB Prescott Burgess, CB Darius Butler, RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, LB Jerod Mayo, G Rich Ohrnberger, G Kendall Simmons, CB Jonathan Wilhite
Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens
Cleveland QB Brett Ratliff (3rd QB), G Rex Hadnot, RB Jamal Lewis, G Floyd Womack, K Phil Dawson, WR Brian Robiskie, CB Gerard Lawson, TE Greg Estandia
Baltimore QB John Beck (3rd QB), DE Paul Kruger, RB Jalen Parmele, LB Dannell Ellerbe, T Oniel Cousins, T Tony Moll, TE Tony Curtis, DT Kelly Talavou
Green Bay Packers at St. Louis Rams
Green Bay S Atari Bigby, T Chad Clifton, RB Brandon Jackson, CB Brandon Underwood, FB Quinn Johnson, LB Jeremy Thompson, T Breno Giacomini, DE Michael Montgomery
St. Louis QB Keith Null (3rd QB), S David Roach, G Roger Allen, T Jason Smith, DE Victor Adenyanju, DT Dorell Scott, S Anthony Smith, WR Ruvell Martin
Jacksonville Jaguars at Houston Texans
Jacksonville LB Adam Seward, CB Brian Witherspoon, CB William Middleton, S Courtney Greene, LB Brian Iwuh, G Kynan Forney, T Jordan Black, DE Jeremy Navarre
Houston QB Dan Orlovsky (3rd QB), CB Antwaun Molden, WR Andre Davis, S Bernard Pollard, CB Jacques Reeves, C Antoine Caldwell, TE Anthony Hill, DT Frank Okam
Kansas City Chiefs at Philadelphia Eagles
Kansas City QB Tyler Thigpen (3rd QB), QB Matt Gutierrez, WR Dwayne Bowe, WR Quinten Lawrence, CB Ricardo Colclough, LB Derrick Johnson, TE Jake O'Connell, LB Pierre Walters
Philadelphia QB Donovan McNabb, G Todd Herremans, CB Dimitri Patterson, WR Kevin Curtis, RB Brian Westbrook, S Quintin Demps, G Mike McGlynn, DE Jason Babin
New York Giants at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NY Giants DE Chris Canty, WR Hakeem Nicks, CB Aaron Ross, RB Danny Ware, LB Clint Sintim, C Adam Koets, CB Kevin Dockery, WR Domenik Hixon
Tampa Bay QB Josh Freeman (3rd QB), C Jeff Faine, DE Kyle Moore, RB Earnest Graham, T Marc Dile, T Demar Dotson, WR Maurice Stovall, DT Dre Moore
San Francisco 49ers at Minnesota Vikings
San Francisco QB Nate Davis (3rd QB), WR Brandon Jones, WR Jason Hill, CB Marcus Hudson, LB Marques Harris, C Cody Wallace, S Curtis Taylor, DE Ricky Jean-Francois
Minnesota QB Sage Rosenfels (3rd QB), LB Erin Henderson, WR Jaymar Johnson, CB Asher Allen, S Hamza Abdullah, C Kory Lichtensteiger, DT Jimmy Kennedy, DE Jayme Mitchell
Tennessee Titans at New York Jets
Tennessee QB Vince Young (3rd QB), P Craig Hentrich, TE Bo Scaife, LB Stanford Keglar, T Troy Kropog, WR Lavelle Hawkins, DT Sen'Derrick Marks, DE Dave Ball
NY Jets QB Erik Ainge (3rd QB), QB Kevin O'Connell, CB Lito Sheppard, CB Donald Strickland, LB Jamaal Westerman, G Matt Slauson, DE Rppati Pitoitua, WR David Clowney
Washington Redskins at Detroit Lions
Washington CB Kevin Barnes, OL D'Anthony Batiste, LB Robert Henson, RB Marcus Mason, WR Marko Mitchell, DT Anthony Montgomery, C Edwin Williams, DE Renaldo Wynn
Detroit QB Drew Stanton (3rd QB), DE Cliff Avril, LB Ernie Sims, CB Eric King, G Daniel Loper, CB Marcus McCauley, DE Turk McBride, T Eprhaim Salaam
4pm Games (Players listed now are 3rd QBs or players designated as "Out" on injury report)
Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals
Pittsburgh QB Dennis Dixon (3rd QB), S Troy Polamalu, FB Frank Summers, CB Keenan Lewis, G Kraig Urbik, DE Nick Eason, WR Shaun McDonald, T Tony Hills
Cincinnati QB Jordan Palmer (3rd QB), T Andre Smith, CB David Jones, S Tom Nelson, G Nate Livings, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson, DE Frostee Rucker
New Orleans Saints at Buffalo Bills
New Orleans QB Chase Daniel (3rd QB), T Jammal Brown, TE Darnell Dinkins, DT Kendrick Clancy, WR Lance Moore, RB Mike Bell, LB Jo-Lonn Dunbar, WR Rod Harper
Buffalo QB Gibran Hamdan (3rd QB),LB Paul Posluszny, CB Ellis Lankster, T Jamon Meredith, TE Shawn Nelson, WR Justin Jenkins, DE Chris Ellis, DT John McCargo
Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks
Chicago LB Pisa Tinoisamoa, WR Juaquin Iglesias, WR Devin Aromashodu, G Lance Louis, DT Matt Toeaina, TE Desmond Clark, CB D.J. Moore, CB DeAngelo Smith
Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck, LB Leroy Hill, T Sean Locklear, CB Josh Wilson, T Walter Jones, FB Justin Griffith, DE Michael Bennett, LB Lofa Tatupu
Miami Dolphins at San Diego Chargers
Miami QB Chad Henne (3rd QB), T Andrew Gardner, S Chris Clemons, LB Erik Walden, TE John Nalbone, DE Lionel Dotson, WR Patrick Turner, G Shawn Murphy
San Diego QB Charlie Whitehurst (3rd QB), RB LaDainian Tomlinson, C Nick Hardwick, G Louis Vasquez, LB Antwan Applewhite, DT Travis Johnson, S C.J. Spillman, WR Craig Davis
Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders
Denver QB Tom Brandstater (3rd QB), LB Spencer Larsen, WR Brandon Lloyd, T Brandon Gorin, DE Jarvis Moss, WR Kenny McKinley, G Seth Olsen, DE Chris Baker
Oakland QB Charlie Frye (3rd QB), G Robert Gallery, WR Nick Miller, WR Chaz Schilens, S Hiram Eugene, WR Javon Walker, G Paul McQuistan, TE Brandon Myers
Indianapolis Colts at Arizona Cardinals
Indianapolis WR Anthony Gonzalez, S Bob Sanders,
Arizona QB Brian St. Pierre (3rd QB), DE Kenny Iwebema
NFL News and Notes - September 27, 2009
Here's your daily spin around the NFL:
New England Patriots wide receivers Randy Moss and Wes Welker could be sidelined today against Atlanta.
The Buffalo Bills' red zone defense will be the key to slowing the New Orleans Saints' offense, writes Mark Gaughan of the Buffalo News.
To avoid an 0-3 start, the Miami Dolphins need to pressure Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers.
The New York Jets can answer the "Are they for real?" question today against Tennessee.
Balance and pressure are the key ingredients to a Cincinnati Bengals' win today over Pittsburgh, writes Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Cleveland Browns kicker Phil Dawson won't play today against Baltimore, so the team signed free agent kicker Billy Cundiff on Saturday.
The Baltimore Ravens aren't taking the 0-2 Browns lightly, writes Aaron Wilson of the Carroll County Times.
Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette previews today's Pittsburgh Steelers game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
When Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub is healthy, he's a quarterback to be feared, writes Dale Robertson of the Houston Chronicle.
On a Jacksonville Jaguars roster loaded with rookies, it's time for the veterans to step up and lead.
Today is a must-win game for Tennessee Titans quarterback Kerry Collins.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne will make his 100th consecutive start tonight.
There's no quit in Denver Broncos running back Correll Buckhalter.
Jason Whitlock of the Kansas City Star takes a shot at Kansas City Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli.
The San Diego Chargers would like to control the time of possession battle against Miami.
Rumored to be cut or traded earlier this year, Oakland Raiders safety Michael Huff is tied for the NFL lead in interceptions.
Dallas Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips' overreaction to last week's game-winning field goal may be a troubling sign, writes Tim Cowlishaw of the Dallas Morning News. (Personally, I thought Phillips' sideline reactions made him look like this kid when the guy hands him the cardboard truck.)
New York Giants safety C.C. Brown will start for the injured Kenny Phillips.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick won't be running the "Wildcat", he'll be running the Spread Eagle.
An 0-3 start and an in-season firing of the head coach could make the Washington Redskins the NFL's most dysfunctional team, writes Michael Wilbon of the Washington Post.
Chicago Bears tight end Greg Olsen is off to a slow start, but the Pro Bowl potential is there.
Five Detroit Lions rookies will start today against the Redskins.
Stopping Rams running back Steven Jackson is the top priority for the Green Bay Packers defense today.
If it weren't for Brett Favre, Minnesota Vikings center John Sullivan would be the top story on the offense.
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brian Williams' ability to stop Randy Moss is the key to a Falcons' road win, writes D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Carolina Panthers safety Chris Harris is doubtful for Monday night's game against Dallas.
New Orleans Saints cornreback Jabari Greer has helped stabilize the team's pass defense.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Ronde Barber believes in the team's new defensive scheme.
The Arizona Cardinals can learn from the Indianapolis Colts about keeping multiple wide receivers happy.
Seattle Seahawks head coach Jim Mora is invigorated by the challenge of leading his team through an injury crisis.
The St. Louis Rams will see a pair of familiar faces on the other sideline today.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Shaun Hill is beginning to stand out.
Today's NFL birthdays: Cowboys quarterback Stephen McGee (24) and Packers offensive tackle Breno Giacomini (24).
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Seahawks "Going Green"
The Seahawks are "going green" tomorrow against the Chicago Bears.
Picture of Nate Burleson in lime green uniform on Matt Hasselbeck's Twitter page, who wrote the following: "@Nate81Burleson & Co. "Going Green" tomorrow #nfl #seahawks #bears (you saw it here first)"
As a Seahawks fan, whoever green-lighted the use of these uniforms should be embarrassed and may Sunday be the only time these mistakes/eyesores ever see the light of day.
You're a football team, not extras in an Enuff Z'Nuff video.
Picture of Nate Burleson in lime green uniform on Matt Hasselbeck's Twitter page, who wrote the following: "@Nate81Burleson & Co. "Going Green" tomorrow #nfl #seahawks #bears (you saw it here first)"
As a Seahawks fan, whoever green-lighted the use of these uniforms should be embarrassed and may Sunday be the only time these mistakes/eyesores ever see the light of day.
You're a football team, not extras in an Enuff Z'Nuff video.
"Heart to Heart"
A must-read from Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com about what New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light and Atlanta Falcons linebacker Stephen Nicholas have in common.
"Patriots left tackle Matt Light and Falcons linebacker Stephen Nicholas will be on the same football field Sunday, playing a game in which the word "miracle" is sometimes used to describe unexpected comeback victories or successful Hail Mary passes.
But they both know what a miracle truly is, and it has nothing to do with football.
Light lived his four years ago after watching his newborn son, Collin, undergo two major heart surgeries at Boston Children's Hospital.
About three years later, Nicholas was in a similar situation, his six-month-old son Stephen Jr. the recipient of a heart transplant at Children's.
Both children are now thriving."
Bring Kleenex.
"Patriots left tackle Matt Light and Falcons linebacker Stephen Nicholas will be on the same football field Sunday, playing a game in which the word "miracle" is sometimes used to describe unexpected comeback victories or successful Hail Mary passes.
But they both know what a miracle truly is, and it has nothing to do with football.
Light lived his four years ago after watching his newborn son, Collin, undergo two major heart surgeries at Boston Children's Hospital.
About three years later, Nicholas was in a similar situation, his six-month-old son Stephen Jr. the recipient of a heart transplant at Children's.
Both children are now thriving."
Bring Kleenex.
Browns Sign K Billy Cundiff
Cleveland Browns kicker Phil Dawson is nursing a right calf injury, so the Browns have signed veteran free agent Billy Cundiff, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Cundiff hasn't kicked in an NFL regular season game since 2006, but he did spent part of last month in camp with the Detroit Lions while their kicker, Jason Hanson, was sidelined with an injury.
In five NFL seasons with the Dallas Cowboys (2002-05) and New Orleans Saints (2006), Cundiff has hit 72.3% of his field goal attempts (60-of-83) and 100-of-101 extra points. He also has eight career touchbacks.
No word on who was released to make room for him on the 53-man roster.
Cundiff hasn't kicked in an NFL regular season game since 2006, but he did spent part of last month in camp with the Detroit Lions while their kicker, Jason Hanson, was sidelined with an injury.
In five NFL seasons with the Dallas Cowboys (2002-05) and New Orleans Saints (2006), Cundiff has hit 72.3% of his field goal attempts (60-of-83) and 100-of-101 extra points. He also has eight career touchbacks.
No word on who was released to make room for him on the 53-man roster.
NFL News and Notes - September 26, 2009
Here's your daily spin around the NFL:
For the second week in a row, the Dallas Cowboys defense will try to stop a Steve Smith.
Despite the seriousness of safety Kenny Phillips' knee condition, the New York Giants are optimistic about his future.
The Philadelphia Eagles offense could look very different on Sunday.
As the offense struggles, the Washington Redskins defense is prepared to carry the load.
Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris must start dominating for the Bears' defense to play at an elite level.
Detroit Lions defensive end Jason Hunter would start if Cliff Avril can't play on Sunday.
Green Bay Packers first-round defensive lineman B.J. Raji could make his NFL debut tomorrow.
The Minnesota Vikings cornerbacks aren't afraid to get physical.
Atlanta Falcons coordinators Mike Mularkey and Brian VanGorder discuss their upcoming game against the New England Patriots.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme has a lot in common with Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo.
For the second week in a row, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees was the FedEx Air Player of the Week.
Newly signed Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Corey Lynch already has a nickname around One Buccaneer Place.
The Arizona Cardinals defense will ignore Peyton Manning's hand signals at the line of scrimmage.
Seattle Seahawks head coach Jim Mora hopes to be able to suit up 45 healthy players on Sunday.
The St. Louis Rams could learn from Mike Singletary's San Francisco 49ers, writes Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye is going to use their "Taser" package.
New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss was added to the team's injury report on Friday.
Buffalo Bills defensive line coach Bob Sanders is looking for ways to improve the pass rush.
If Miami Dolphins backup quarterback Chad Henne is looking for a role model, it could be Philip Rivers.
New York Jets cornerback Lito Sheppard and Donald Strickland won't play against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday.
Concerned about the H1N1 virus, the Cincinnati Bengals are keeping sick players away from the team's facility.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis and kicker Phil Dawson may not be available on Sunday.
Baltimore Ravens special teams coordinator Jerry Rosburg is concerned about facing Browns return specialist Josh Cribbs.
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Tyrone Carter wore extra padding during practice on Friday.
Houston Texans wide receiver Kevin Walter should play on Sunday.
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio says he can't concern himself with how the fans' perceive him, reports Michael C. Wright of the Florida Times-Union.
Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson's shoes from last Sunday's game are now in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The Indianapolis Colts expect their rookies to perform.
Denver Broncos first-round running back Knowshon Moreno and wide receiver Brandon Stokley missed practice on Friday.
Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Glenn Dorsey thinks he's improved over last season.
San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson will miss a second straight game.
Discarded by Dallas, defensive end Greg Ellis is thriving in Oakland.
Today's NFL birthdays: Panthers linebacker James Anderson (26), Browns linebacker D'Qwell Jackson (26), Packers linebacker Cyril Obiozor (23), Vikings defensive tackle Trumaine Johnson (24), Jets linebacker Larry Izzo (35), and Seahawks wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh (32).
Friday, September 25, 2009
Rich Gannon Not Welcome at Raiders' HQ
Seven years ago, Rich Gannon quarterbacked the Oakland Raiders to the Super Bowl. Today, he's not welcome at Raiders headquarters.
"Rich Gannon is not welcome here," Raiders executive John Herrera, who famously confronted Bay Area columnist Tim Kawakami last year, said on Friday. "We told CBS we did not want him in our building, we did not want him to be part of our production meeting, and that's where it sits.
"He's attacked us on a regular basis since becoming a member of the media," Herrera said. "After affording him the opportunity to establish a career here, he has since gone on to attack us in a way that's totally unacceptable."
According to NFL spokesman Greg Aiello, banning of an analyst for one of their broadcast partners is not permitted by the National Football League.
"It is not permitted under league policy regarding cooperation with our network partners," Aiello said.
Herrera specifically mentioned Gannon's comment that the Raiders should "blow up the building and start over".
"We think in a post 9/11 world, that's not a very proper thing to say," Herrera said. "It's uncalled for. He seems to be a guy who can't get over the fact that he played the worst Super Bowl game in the history of the game and he wants to blame everybody but himself.
"I guess it's our fault he threw five interceptions."
Because such a ban violates league rules, the Raiders have relented on their request and will allow Gannon into their facility. But if the Raiders' execs don't want to subject themselves to Rich Gannon's analysis this week, all they'll have to do is stay home.
The Raiders failed to sell enough tickets in advance of Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos, and their game won't be shown on local television.
"Rich Gannon is not welcome here," Raiders executive John Herrera, who famously confronted Bay Area columnist Tim Kawakami last year, said on Friday. "We told CBS we did not want him in our building, we did not want him to be part of our production meeting, and that's where it sits.
"He's attacked us on a regular basis since becoming a member of the media," Herrera said. "After affording him the opportunity to establish a career here, he has since gone on to attack us in a way that's totally unacceptable."
According to NFL spokesman Greg Aiello, banning of an analyst for one of their broadcast partners is not permitted by the National Football League.
"It is not permitted under league policy regarding cooperation with our network partners," Aiello said.
Herrera specifically mentioned Gannon's comment that the Raiders should "blow up the building and start over".
"We think in a post 9/11 world, that's not a very proper thing to say," Herrera said. "It's uncalled for. He seems to be a guy who can't get over the fact that he played the worst Super Bowl game in the history of the game and he wants to blame everybody but himself.
"I guess it's our fault he threw five interceptions."
Because such a ban violates league rules, the Raiders have relented on their request and will allow Gannon into their facility. But if the Raiders' execs don't want to subject themselves to Rich Gannon's analysis this week, all they'll have to do is stay home.
The Raiders failed to sell enough tickets in advance of Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos, and their game won't be shown on local television.
NFL Injury Report - 2009 Week Three (Fri.)
Here's the NFL practice participation report for Friday, September 25, 2009:
Atlanta Falcons at New England Patriots
Atlanta
Questionable: RB Jerious Norwood (head)
Probable: K Jason Elam (left hamstring), S William Moore (hamstring), TE Justin Peelle (back)
New England
OUT: LB Jerod Mayo (knee)
Questionable: TE Chris Baker (ankle), CB Darius Butler (thigh), G Dan Connolly (back), WR Julian Edelman (ankle), S Brandon Meriweather (ankle), WR Randy Moss (back), DE Myron Pryor (calf), WR Matt Slater (elbow), CB Shawn Springs (knee), CB Terrence Wheatley (knee), WR Wes Welker (knee)
Probable: QB Tom Brady (right shoulder)
Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks
Chicago
OUT: LB Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee)
Doubtful: TE Desmond Clark (rib),
Questionable: DE Alex Brown (ankle)
Probable: DT Israel Idonije (knee), DT Tommie Harris (knee), G Frank Omiyale (ankle)
Seattle
OUT: LB Leroy Hill (groin), T Sean Locklear (ankle), CB Josh Wilson (ankle)
Doubtful: RB Justin Griffith (knee), QB Matt Hasselbeck (rib), LB Lofa Tatupu (hamstring)
Questionable: CB Ken Lucas (groin), DT Brandon Mebane (calf), T Walter Jones
Probable: WR Deion Branch (hamstring), CB Travis Fisher (hamstring), T Walter Jones (knee), C Chris Spencer (quad), WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (back)
Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens
Cleveland
Doubtful: G Rex Hadnot (knee), RB Jamal Lewis (hamstring), G Floyd Womack (ankle)
Questionable: LB David Bowens (knee), DT Shaun Rogers (foot), K Phil Dawson (right calf)
Probable: RB James Davis (shoulder), C Alex Mack (knee), WR Mohamed Massaquoi (shoulder), RB Cedric Peerman (thigh), DT Ahtyba Rubin (toe), P Dave Zastudil (right knee)
Baltimore
Questionable: LB Jarrett Johnson (shoulder), S Ed Reed (neck), TE L.J. Smith (hamstring)
Probable: DT Justin Bannan (knee), T Jared Gaither (illness), S Tom Zbikowski (head), CB Fabian Washington (illness)
Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders
Denver
OUT: LB Spencer Larsen (shoulder)
Questionable: RB Knowshon Moreno (groin), DE Le Kevin Smith (knee), WR Brandon Stokley (thigh)
Probable: S Josh Barrett (shoulder), WR Jabar Gaffney (finger), LB Mario Haggan (knee), G Ben Hamilton (hamstring), G Chris Kuper (ankle), QB Kyle Orton (right finger)
Oakland
OUT: G Robert Gallery (fibula), WR Nick Miller (shin), WR Chaz Schilens (foot)
Doubtful: S Hiram Eugene (calf)
Probable: CB Nnamdi Asomugha (wrist), WR Johnnie Lee Higgins (shoulder), LB Kirk Morrison (elbow), DE Richard Seymour (knee)
Green Bay Packers at St. Louis Rams
Green Bay
OUT: S Atari Bigby (knee), T Chad Clifton (ankle), RB Brandon Jackson (ankle)
Questionable: RB Korey Hall (shoulder, concussion), DE B.J. Raji (ankle), LB Jeremy Thompson (knee)
Probable: S Nick Collins (chest), LB Aaron Kampan (hand), S Jarrett Bush (ankle), K Mason Crosby (abdomen)
St. Louis
Doubtful: T Jason Smith (knee)
Probable: C Jason Brown (knee)
Jacksonville Jaguars at Houston Texans
Jacksonville
OUT: LB Adam Seward (groin), CB Brian Witherspoon (hamstring)
Probable: C Brad Meester (knee), RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee)
Houston
OUT: CB Antwaun Molden (quad)
Doubtful: WR Andre Davis (concussion), CB Jacques Reeves (fibula)
Questionable: DT Shaun Cody (knee), WR Kevin Walter (hamstring),
Probable: S Eugene Wilson (knee), G Mike Brisiel (shoulder), FB Vonta Leach (knee)
Kansas City Chiefs at Philadelphia Eagles
Kansas City
Questionable: WR Dwayne Bowe (hamstring), LB Derrick Johnson (groin), TE Jake O'Connell (ankle), G Brian Waters (ankle)
Probable: CB Brandon Flowers (shoulder), QB Matt Cassel (knee)
Philadelphia
OUT: G Todd Herremans (foot), CB Dimitri Patterson (hand)
Doubtful: QB Donovan McNabb (rib), WR Kevin Curtis (knee), S Quintin Demps (hamstring)
Questionable: RB Brian Westbrook (ankle), WR DeSean Jackson (groin)
Probable: DE Victor Abiamiri (groin), LB Omar Gaither (neck), G Max Jean-Gilles (knee), T Winston Justice (hamstring), LB Joe Mays (shoulder), CB Asante Samuel (neck)
Miami Dolphins at San Diego Chargers
Miami
Questionable: G Justin Smiley (shoulder), LB Joey Porter (knee)
Probable: T Vernon Carey (knee)
San Diego
OUT: RB LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle), C Nick Hardwick (ankle),
Doubtful: G Louis Vasquez (knee),
Questionable: LB Kevin Burnett (knee)
New Orleans Saints at Buffalo Bills
New Orleans
OUT: T Jammal Brown (hip), TE Darnell Dinkins (foot), DT Kendrick Clancy (knee), WR Lance Moore (hamstring), RB Mike Bell (knee)
Questionable: LB Jo-Lonn Dunbar (hamstring),
Probable: DE Charles Grant (hamstring), DE Bobby McCray (hamstring), S Roman Harper (hamstring), QB Drew Brees (left shoulder), T Jermon Bushrod (knee), TE Jeremy Shockey (ankle), RB Pierre Thomas (knee)
Buffalo
OUT: T Brad Butler (knee), TE Derek Schouman (knee), LB Paul Posluszny (forearm)
Doubtful: DT John McCargo (back), TE Shawn Nelson (shoulder)
Questionable: CB Terrence McGee (ankle), WR Josh Reed (ankle)
Probable: CB Leodis McKelvin (fibula), C Geoff Hangartner (back),WR Roscoe Parrish (quad)
New York Giants at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NY Giants
OUT: DE Chris Canty (calf), WR Hakeem Nicks (foot), CB Aaron Ross (hamstring), RB Danny Ware (elbow), LB Clint Sintim (groin)
Questionable: OL Adam Koets (ankle), CB Kevin Dockery (hamstring), DE Justin Tuck (shoulder), WR Domenik Hixon (knee)
Probable: WR Mario Manningham (shoulder)
Tampa Bay
OUT: C Jeff Faine (triceps), DE Kyle Moore (knee)
Doubtful: WR Maurice Stovall (knee)
Questionable: RB Earnest Graham (hamstring), LB Matt McCoy (back), RB Carnell Williams (knee)
Probable: TE John Gilmore (ankle), CB Elbert Mack (shoulder), WR Antonio Bryant (knee), DT Roy Miller (ankle), RB Clifton Smith (quad)
Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals
Pittsburgh
OUT: S Troy Polamalu (knee)
Probable: S Tyrone Carter (thigh), WR Limas Sweed (foot), LB Lawrence Timmons (ankle), LB James Harrison (illness)
Cincinnati
OUT: T Andre Smith (foot), CB David Jones (foot)
Questionable: DT Jonathan Fanene (illness), DE Michael Johnson (illness), G Nate Livings (knee)
Probable: CB Johnathan Joseph (ankle), RB Cedric Benson (ankle), WR Chris Henry (quad), DE Antwan Odom
San Francisco 49ers at Minnesota Vikings
San Francisco
Questionable: LB Marques Harris (toe)
Probable: RB Frank Gore (ankle), G David Baas (ankle), RB Glen Coffee (hip)
Minnesota
OUT: LB Erin Henderson (calf)
Questionable: WR Percy Harvin (illness), LB E.J. Henderson (shoulder)
Probable: RB Adrian Peterson (back), TE Jim Kleinsasser (hand), S Madieu Williams (shoulder)
Tennessee Titans at New York Jets
Tennessee
OUT: P Craig Hentrich (left calf)
Doubtful: LB Stanford Keglar (hamstring), QB Vince Young (illness)
Questionable: G Eugene Amano (illness), TE Bo Scaife (knee), K Rob Bironas (right ankle)
NY Jets
OUT: CB Lito Sheppard (quad), CB Donald Strickland (ankle)
Questionable: G Matt Slauson (ankle)
Probable: QB Kellen Clemens (right elbow), DT Kris Jenkins (back), S Jim Leonhard (knee), CB Dwight Lowery (ankle), C Nick Mangold (toes), DT Sione Pouha (ankle), QB Mark Sanchez (knee), LB Bryan Thomas (ankle), LB Jamaal Westerman (quad), T Damien Woody (shoulder), WR Wallace Wright (hamstring)
Washington Redskins at Detroit Lions
Washington
Questionable: RB Clinton Portis (ankle)
Probable: QB Jason Campbell (foot), DT Anthony Montgomery (knee), T Mike Williams (illness)
Detroit
Doubtful: DE Cliff Avril (hamstring), CB Eric King (shoulder), LB Ernie Sims (shoulder)
Questionable: CB Phillip Buchanon (neck), DT Andre Fluellen (knee), QB Drew Stanton (knee),
Probable: RB Jerome Felton (ankle), G Daniel Loper (knee), S Marquand Manuel (knee), DT Sammie Lee Hill (neck), DT Grady Jackson (knee)
Indianapolis Colts at Arizona Cardinals
Indianapolis
OUT: WR Anthony Gonzalez (knee), S Bob Sanders (knee)
Questionable: LB Clint Session (ankle) LB Gary Brackett (knee), DE Dwight Freeney (back), CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring),
Arizona
OUT: DE Kenny Iwebema (ankle)
Questionable: T Levi Brown (ankle), S Matt Ware (shoulder) WR Steve Breaston (knee), LB Chike Okeafor (shoulder), LB Ali Highsmith (hamstring), S Rashad Johnson (ankle)
Probable: WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring), LB Will Davis (knee), WR Early Doucet (ribs), CB Bryant McFadden (groin), WR Sean Morey (ribs), S Antrel Rolle (quad), QB Brian St. Pierre (back), QB Kurt Warner (right shoulder), G Reggie Wells (thumb)
Carolina Panthers at Dallas Cowboys
Carolina
Did not participate: DE Everette Brown (ankle), LB Na'il Diggs (rib), FB Brad Hoover (back), S Chris Harris (knee)
Limited participation: T Jordan Gross (knee), DE Charles Johnson (cramps), CB Captain Munnerlyn (cramps), T Jeff Otah (shoulder), RB Jonathan Stewart (heel)
Full participation: LB Dan Connor (shoulder), WR Muhsin Muhammed (ankle), WR Steve Smith (ankle), RB Mike Goodson (illness), DT Nick Hayden (toe)
Dallas
Did not participate: S Michael Hamlin (wrist), LB Jason Williams (ankle)
Limited participation: RB Marion Barber (thigh)
Full participation: QB Stephen McGee (knee)
Atlanta Falcons at New England Patriots
Atlanta
Questionable: RB Jerious Norwood (head)
Probable: K Jason Elam (left hamstring), S William Moore (hamstring), TE Justin Peelle (back)
New England
OUT: LB Jerod Mayo (knee)
Questionable: TE Chris Baker (ankle), CB Darius Butler (thigh), G Dan Connolly (back), WR Julian Edelman (ankle), S Brandon Meriweather (ankle), WR Randy Moss (back), DE Myron Pryor (calf), WR Matt Slater (elbow), CB Shawn Springs (knee), CB Terrence Wheatley (knee), WR Wes Welker (knee)
Probable: QB Tom Brady (right shoulder)
Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks
Chicago
OUT: LB Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee)
Doubtful: TE Desmond Clark (rib),
Questionable: DE Alex Brown (ankle)
Probable: DT Israel Idonije (knee), DT Tommie Harris (knee), G Frank Omiyale (ankle)
Seattle
OUT: LB Leroy Hill (groin), T Sean Locklear (ankle), CB Josh Wilson (ankle)
Doubtful: RB Justin Griffith (knee), QB Matt Hasselbeck (rib), LB Lofa Tatupu (hamstring)
Questionable: CB Ken Lucas (groin), DT Brandon Mebane (calf), T Walter Jones
Probable: WR Deion Branch (hamstring), CB Travis Fisher (hamstring), T Walter Jones (knee), C Chris Spencer (quad), WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (back)
Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens
Cleveland
Doubtful: G Rex Hadnot (knee), RB Jamal Lewis (hamstring), G Floyd Womack (ankle)
Questionable: LB David Bowens (knee), DT Shaun Rogers (foot), K Phil Dawson (right calf)
Probable: RB James Davis (shoulder), C Alex Mack (knee), WR Mohamed Massaquoi (shoulder), RB Cedric Peerman (thigh), DT Ahtyba Rubin (toe), P Dave Zastudil (right knee)
Baltimore
Questionable: LB Jarrett Johnson (shoulder), S Ed Reed (neck), TE L.J. Smith (hamstring)
Probable: DT Justin Bannan (knee), T Jared Gaither (illness), S Tom Zbikowski (head), CB Fabian Washington (illness)
Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders
Denver
OUT: LB Spencer Larsen (shoulder)
Questionable: RB Knowshon Moreno (groin), DE Le Kevin Smith (knee), WR Brandon Stokley (thigh)
Probable: S Josh Barrett (shoulder), WR Jabar Gaffney (finger), LB Mario Haggan (knee), G Ben Hamilton (hamstring), G Chris Kuper (ankle), QB Kyle Orton (right finger)
Oakland
OUT: G Robert Gallery (fibula), WR Nick Miller (shin), WR Chaz Schilens (foot)
Doubtful: S Hiram Eugene (calf)
Probable: CB Nnamdi Asomugha (wrist), WR Johnnie Lee Higgins (shoulder), LB Kirk Morrison (elbow), DE Richard Seymour (knee)
Green Bay Packers at St. Louis Rams
Green Bay
OUT: S Atari Bigby (knee), T Chad Clifton (ankle), RB Brandon Jackson (ankle)
Questionable: RB Korey Hall (shoulder, concussion), DE B.J. Raji (ankle), LB Jeremy Thompson (knee)
Probable: S Nick Collins (chest), LB Aaron Kampan (hand), S Jarrett Bush (ankle), K Mason Crosby (abdomen)
St. Louis
Doubtful: T Jason Smith (knee)
Probable: C Jason Brown (knee)
Jacksonville Jaguars at Houston Texans
Jacksonville
OUT: LB Adam Seward (groin), CB Brian Witherspoon (hamstring)
Probable: C Brad Meester (knee), RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee)
Houston
OUT: CB Antwaun Molden (quad)
Doubtful: WR Andre Davis (concussion), CB Jacques Reeves (fibula)
Questionable: DT Shaun Cody (knee), WR Kevin Walter (hamstring),
Probable: S Eugene Wilson (knee), G Mike Brisiel (shoulder), FB Vonta Leach (knee)
Kansas City Chiefs at Philadelphia Eagles
Kansas City
Questionable: WR Dwayne Bowe (hamstring), LB Derrick Johnson (groin), TE Jake O'Connell (ankle), G Brian Waters (ankle)
Probable: CB Brandon Flowers (shoulder), QB Matt Cassel (knee)
Philadelphia
OUT: G Todd Herremans (foot), CB Dimitri Patterson (hand)
Doubtful: QB Donovan McNabb (rib), WR Kevin Curtis (knee), S Quintin Demps (hamstring)
Questionable: RB Brian Westbrook (ankle), WR DeSean Jackson (groin)
Probable: DE Victor Abiamiri (groin), LB Omar Gaither (neck), G Max Jean-Gilles (knee), T Winston Justice (hamstring), LB Joe Mays (shoulder), CB Asante Samuel (neck)
Miami Dolphins at San Diego Chargers
Miami
Questionable: G Justin Smiley (shoulder), LB Joey Porter (knee)
Probable: T Vernon Carey (knee)
San Diego
OUT: RB LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle), C Nick Hardwick (ankle),
Doubtful: G Louis Vasquez (knee),
Questionable: LB Kevin Burnett (knee)
New Orleans Saints at Buffalo Bills
New Orleans
OUT: T Jammal Brown (hip), TE Darnell Dinkins (foot), DT Kendrick Clancy (knee), WR Lance Moore (hamstring), RB Mike Bell (knee)
Questionable: LB Jo-Lonn Dunbar (hamstring),
Probable: DE Charles Grant (hamstring), DE Bobby McCray (hamstring), S Roman Harper (hamstring), QB Drew Brees (left shoulder), T Jermon Bushrod (knee), TE Jeremy Shockey (ankle), RB Pierre Thomas (knee)
Buffalo
OUT: T Brad Butler (knee), TE Derek Schouman (knee), LB Paul Posluszny (forearm)
Doubtful: DT John McCargo (back), TE Shawn Nelson (shoulder)
Questionable: CB Terrence McGee (ankle), WR Josh Reed (ankle)
Probable: CB Leodis McKelvin (fibula), C Geoff Hangartner (back),WR Roscoe Parrish (quad)
New York Giants at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NY Giants
OUT: DE Chris Canty (calf), WR Hakeem Nicks (foot), CB Aaron Ross (hamstring), RB Danny Ware (elbow), LB Clint Sintim (groin)
Questionable: OL Adam Koets (ankle), CB Kevin Dockery (hamstring), DE Justin Tuck (shoulder), WR Domenik Hixon (knee)
Probable: WR Mario Manningham (shoulder)
Tampa Bay
OUT: C Jeff Faine (triceps), DE Kyle Moore (knee)
Doubtful: WR Maurice Stovall (knee)
Questionable: RB Earnest Graham (hamstring), LB Matt McCoy (back), RB Carnell Williams (knee)
Probable: TE John Gilmore (ankle), CB Elbert Mack (shoulder), WR Antonio Bryant (knee), DT Roy Miller (ankle), RB Clifton Smith (quad)
Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals
Pittsburgh
OUT: S Troy Polamalu (knee)
Probable: S Tyrone Carter (thigh), WR Limas Sweed (foot), LB Lawrence Timmons (ankle), LB James Harrison (illness)
Cincinnati
OUT: T Andre Smith (foot), CB David Jones (foot)
Questionable: DT Jonathan Fanene (illness), DE Michael Johnson (illness), G Nate Livings (knee)
Probable: CB Johnathan Joseph (ankle), RB Cedric Benson (ankle), WR Chris Henry (quad), DE Antwan Odom
San Francisco 49ers at Minnesota Vikings
San Francisco
Questionable: LB Marques Harris (toe)
Probable: RB Frank Gore (ankle), G David Baas (ankle), RB Glen Coffee (hip)
Minnesota
OUT: LB Erin Henderson (calf)
Questionable: WR Percy Harvin (illness), LB E.J. Henderson (shoulder)
Probable: RB Adrian Peterson (back), TE Jim Kleinsasser (hand), S Madieu Williams (shoulder)
Tennessee Titans at New York Jets
Tennessee
OUT: P Craig Hentrich (left calf)
Doubtful: LB Stanford Keglar (hamstring), QB Vince Young (illness)
Questionable: G Eugene Amano (illness), TE Bo Scaife (knee), K Rob Bironas (right ankle)
NY Jets
OUT: CB Lito Sheppard (quad), CB Donald Strickland (ankle)
Questionable: G Matt Slauson (ankle)
Probable: QB Kellen Clemens (right elbow), DT Kris Jenkins (back), S Jim Leonhard (knee), CB Dwight Lowery (ankle), C Nick Mangold (toes), DT Sione Pouha (ankle), QB Mark Sanchez (knee), LB Bryan Thomas (ankle), LB Jamaal Westerman (quad), T Damien Woody (shoulder), WR Wallace Wright (hamstring)
Washington Redskins at Detroit Lions
Washington
Questionable: RB Clinton Portis (ankle)
Probable: QB Jason Campbell (foot), DT Anthony Montgomery (knee), T Mike Williams (illness)
Detroit
Doubtful: DE Cliff Avril (hamstring), CB Eric King (shoulder), LB Ernie Sims (shoulder)
Questionable: CB Phillip Buchanon (neck), DT Andre Fluellen (knee), QB Drew Stanton (knee),
Probable: RB Jerome Felton (ankle), G Daniel Loper (knee), S Marquand Manuel (knee), DT Sammie Lee Hill (neck), DT Grady Jackson (knee)
Indianapolis Colts at Arizona Cardinals
Indianapolis
OUT: WR Anthony Gonzalez (knee), S Bob Sanders (knee)
Questionable: LB Clint Session (ankle) LB Gary Brackett (knee), DE Dwight Freeney (back), CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring),
Arizona
OUT: DE Kenny Iwebema (ankle)
Questionable: T Levi Brown (ankle), S Matt Ware (shoulder) WR Steve Breaston (knee), LB Chike Okeafor (shoulder), LB Ali Highsmith (hamstring), S Rashad Johnson (ankle)
Probable: WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring), LB Will Davis (knee), WR Early Doucet (ribs), CB Bryant McFadden (groin), WR Sean Morey (ribs), S Antrel Rolle (quad), QB Brian St. Pierre (back), QB Kurt Warner (right shoulder), G Reggie Wells (thumb)
Carolina Panthers at Dallas Cowboys
Carolina
Did not participate: DE Everette Brown (ankle), LB Na'il Diggs (rib), FB Brad Hoover (back), S Chris Harris (knee)
Limited participation: T Jordan Gross (knee), DE Charles Johnson (cramps), CB Captain Munnerlyn (cramps), T Jeff Otah (shoulder), RB Jonathan Stewart (heel)
Full participation: LB Dan Connor (shoulder), WR Muhsin Muhammed (ankle), WR Steve Smith (ankle), RB Mike Goodson (illness), DT Nick Hayden (toe)
Dallas
Did not participate: S Michael Hamlin (wrist), LB Jason Williams (ankle)
Limited participation: RB Marion Barber (thigh)
Full participation: QB Stephen McGee (knee)
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