Happy New Year!

This was a remarkable year for this little ol' blog. A lot of you made it here for the very first time, and I hope you keep coming back, as I have some big plans for 2010.

So raise a glass and toast in the new year.

May it be the best one yet.

NFL Injury Report - 2009 Week 17 (Thurs.)

Here's the official NFL Injury/Practice Participation report for Thursday, December 31, 2009:

Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Atlanta

Did not participate: TE Tony Gonzalez (calf), DT Thomas Johnson (knee), LB Curtis Lofton (shoulder, hamstring), S Charlie Peprah (hamstring), RB Michael Turner (ankle), WR Eric Weems (head)
Limited participation: DE Jamaal Anderson (chest), DT Jonathan Babineaux (shoulder), T Sam Baker (elbow, hamstring), K Matt Bryant (right hamstring), P Michael Koenen (head), QB Matt Ryan (toe)

Tampa Bay

Did not participate: C Jeff Faine (back), DT Chris Hovan (illness)
Limited participation: DT Roy Miller (hamstring), RB Derrick Ward (knee, thigh), G Jeremy Zuttah (toe)
Full participation: TE Kellen Winslow (knee)

Baltimore Ravens at Oakland Raiders

Baltimore

Did not participate: WR Derrick Mason (knee)
Limited participation: S Ed Reed (groin, foot), LB Terrell Suggs (knee, thigh), DE Trevor Pryce (illness), LB Tavares Gooden (groin)
Full participation: T Oniel Cousins (knee), LB Jarrett Johnson (shoulder, back, knee), CB Cary Williams (thigh)

Oakland

Did not participate: DE Greg Ellis (knee), G Langston Walker (ankle), CB Chris Johnson (hamstring)
Limited participation: WR Darrius Heyward-Bey (foot), S Tyvon Branch (hip)
Full participation: DT Gerard Warren (shoulder)

Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions

Chicago

Did not participate: S Al Afalava (knee), WR Johnny Knox (ankle), S Danieal Manning (calf))
Limited participation: DT Tommie Harris (knee), S Craig Steltz (foot)
Full participation: WR Devin Hester (calf), S Kevin Payne (ankle)

NOTE: CB Charles Tillman (ribs) and DT Israel Idonije (foot) were listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but have since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

Detroit

Did not participate: S Louis Delmas (knee), LB Larry Foote (foot), DT Grady Jackson (knee)
Limited participation: CB Phillip Buchanon (shoulder), DT Joe Cohen (knee), QB Drew Stanton (ankle), CB Brian Witherspoon (ankle)
Full participation: LB Jordon Dizon (neck), DE Dewayne White (toe)

Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets

Cincinnati

Did not participate: WR Andre Caldwell (illness), S Chris Crocker (ankle), DE Robert Geathers (knee), DT Tank Johnson (foot)
Limited participation: DT Jonathan Fanene (shoulder), TE J.P. Foschi (neck), DT Domata Peko (knee)

NOTE: LB Rey Maualuga (ankle) was listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but has since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

New York Jets

Did not participate: CB Donald Strickland (quadricep)
Limited participation: DE Shaun Ellis (knee)
Full participation: RB Shonn Greene (shoulder), QB Mark Sanchez (knee), G Robert Turner (knee)

Green Bay Packers at Arizona Cardinals

Green Bay

OUT: S Derrick Martin (ankle)
Did not participate: LB Brandon Chillar (back), DT Ryan Pickett (hamstring)
Limited participate: RB Korey Hall (elbow), DE Mike Montgomery (ankle)
Full participation: LB Nick Barnett (illness), T Chad Clifton (knee), CB Trevor Ford (knee), DE Johnny Jolly (foot), CB Charles Woodson (shoulder)

NOTE: LB Jeremy Thompson (neck) was listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but has since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

Arizona

Did not participate: S Antrel Rolle (thigh)
Limited participation: DE Kenny Iwebema (head), RB Dan Kreider (neck), WR Sean Morey (head), TE Ben Patrick (head), K Neil Rackers (right groin), CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (toe), RB Chris Wells (groin)
Full participation: LB Will Davis (knee), WR Larry Fitzgerald (elbow), CB Gregory Toler (elbow)

Indianapolis Colts at Buffalo Bills

Indianapolis

Did not participate: DT Keyunta Dawson (knee), T Ryan Diem (elbow), DE Dwight Freeney (abdomen), DT Antonio Johnson (shoulder), T Charlie Johnson (foot), DE Robert Mathis (quadricep), CB Jerraud Powers (hamstring), TE Gijon Robinson (knee), LB Clint Session (knee), RB Chad Simpson (concussion)
Limited participation: CB Melvin Bullitt (shoulder), WR Pierre Garcon (hand)
Full participation: RB Joseph Addai (shoulder), CB Antoine Bethea (foot), LB Gary Brackett (foot), RB Donald Brown (illness), WR Austin Collie (not injury related), T Kyle DeVan (illness), CB Aaron Francisco (hand), LB Cody Glenn (shoulder), RB Mike Hart (ankle), CB Tim Jennings (ankle), CB Jacob Lacey (biceps), DT Fili Moala (knee), DT Daniel Muir (shoulder), G Jamey Richard (shoulder), T Tony Ugoh (knee), K Adam Vinatieri (right knee), WR Reggie Wayne (foot)

Buffalo

Did not participate: QB Trent Edwards (ankle), LB Nic Harris (knee), WR Steve Johnson (ankle), S Todd Johnson (hamstring), TE Shawn Nelson (illness), WR Josh Reed (ankle), LB Bryan Scott (head), T Jonathan Scott (ankle), DT Marcus Stroud (illness), S Donte Whitner (illness
Limited participation: LB Ashlee Palmer (ankle), T Andre Ramsey (calf), TE Jonathan Stupar (knee)
Full participation: QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (ankle)

Jacksonville Jaguars at Cleveland Browns

Jacksonville

Did not participate: DT Atiyyah Ellison (knee), DT John Henderson (shoulder), WR Torry Holt (hand), TE Marcedes Lewis (cheek, head), CB Rashean Mathis (groin)
Limited participation: CB Derek Cox (foot), S Anthony Smith (ankle), LB Daryl Smith (neck)

Cleveland

Did not participate: LB Titus Brown (hamstring), DE Kenyon Coleman (ankle, elbow), WR Brian Robiskie (ankle), T John St. Clair (ankle), RB Lawrence Vickers (groin), DE Corey Williams (ankle)
Limited participation: CB Mike Adams (elbow), LB David Bowens (knee), G Rex Hadnot (knee), RB Jerome Harrison (hip), DE Robaire Smith (groin), T Joe Thomas (shoulder), LB David Veikune (knee), S Raymond Ventrone (finger)
Full participation: RB Chris Jennings (shoulder)

Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos

Kansas City

Did not participate: G Andy Alleman (back)
Full participation: CB Brandon Flowers (shoulder), DE Alex Magee (hamstring)

Denver

Practice not complete.

New England Patriots at Houston Texans

New England

Limited participation: QB Tom Brady (right shoulder, right finger, rib), DE Jarvis Green (knee), DE Ty Warren (ankle), WR Wes Welker (not injury related), DT Vince Wilfork (foot)
Full participation: WR Julian Edelman (forearm), T Nick Kaczur (shoulder), CB Shawn Springs (knee), TE Benjamin Watson (knee)

Houston

Did not participate: DT Shaun Cody (knee), LB Brian Cushing (foot, ribs)
Limited participation: T Duane Brown (knee)
Full participation: TE Joel Dreessen (shoulder), WR Jacoby Jones (shoulder)

New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers

New Orleans

Did not participate: DE Bobby McCray (back), WR Lance Moore (ankle), S Darren Sharper (knee), TE David Thomas (calf), RB Pierre Thomas (rib), LB Jonathan Vilma (knee), S Usama Young (abdomen)
Limited participation: T Jermon Bushrod (wrist), TE Darnell Dinkins (foot), DT Sedrick Ellis (knee), G Jahri Evans (foot), CB Randall Gay (concussion), CB Jabari Greer (groin), RB Lynell Hamilton (shoulder), LS Jason Kyle (back), LB Scott Shanle (concussion), TE Jeremy Shockey (toe)

Carolina

Did not participate: CB Richard Marshall (ankle), WR Steve Smith (forearm), RB Jonathan Stewart (achilles), RB Tyrell Sutton (calf), RB DeAngelo Williams (ankle)
Full participation: QB Matt Moore (rib), WR Muhsin Muhammad (ankle), T Geoff Schwartz (groin)

New York Giants at Minnesota Vikings

NY Giants

Did not participate: RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle, foot), DT Chris Canty (knee), T Kareem McKenzie (knee), DE Justin Tuck (knee), CB Corey Webster (knee)
Limited participation: WR Mario Manningham (shoulder), WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring), DT Fred Robbins (lower leg), G Rich Seubert (knee)
Full participation: QB Eli Manning (foot)

NOTE: RB Brandon Jacobs (knee) and CB Aaron Ross (hamstring) were listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but have since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

Minnesota

Did not participate: DT Jimmy Kennedy (thumb)
Limited participation: S Eric Frampton (ankle), G Steve Hutchinson (shoulder), TE Visanthe Shiancoe (thigh), C John Sullivan (knee), DT Pat Williams (elbow), CB Antoine Winfield (foot)

Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys

Philadelphia

Full participation: WR Reggie Brown (shoulder), C Nick Cole (knee), S Quintin Demps (ankle), WR Jeremy Maclin (foot), QB Michael Vick (quadricep)

Dallas

Did not participate: T Marc Colombo (ankle), S Pat Watkins (knee)
Full participation: WR Miles Austin (thumb), CB Terence Newman (knee), S Gerald Sensabaugh (thumb), LB DeMarcus Ware (wrist)

Pittsburgh Steelers at Miami Dolphins

Pittsburgh

Did not participate: DE Brett Keisel (neck), WR Hines Ward (hamstring)
Limited participation: G Chris Kemoeatu (wrist), S Troy Polamalu (knee)
Full participation: LB Rocky Boiman (calf), DE Travis Kirschke (calf), RB Willie Parker (shoulder)

Miami

Limited participation: RB Ricky Williams (shoulder)
Full participation: T Vernon Carey (knee)

San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams

San Francisco

Practice not complete.

St. Louis

Did not participate: CB Quincy Butler (knee), RB Steven Jackson (back), LB Paris Lenon (toe), DE Leonard Little (knee), G Mark Setterstrom (tricep)
Limited participation: WR Donnie Avery (thigh), LB James Laurinaitis (knee), T Jason Smith (concussion)

Tennessee Titans at Seattle Seahawks

Tennessee

Did not participate: DT Tony Brown (knee, quadricep), T Troy Kropog (calf), C Kevin Mawae (elbow), CB Ryan Mouton (ankle)

NOTE: LB Keith Bulluck (knee) and CB Nick Harper (forearm) were listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but have since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

Seattle

OUT: WR Nate Burleson (ankle)
Did not participate: LB Aaron Curry (shoulder), RB Julius Jones (rib), CB Josh Wilson (hip)
Full participation: LB LeRoy Hill (knee)

Washington Redskins at San Diego Chargers

Washington

Did not participate: DT Albert Haynesworth (hip), S LaRon Landry (head), WR Devin Thomas (ankle)
Limited participation: LB Rocky McIntosh (back)
Full participation: WR Santana Moss (knee)

San Diego

Did not participate: RB Jacob Hester (shoulder), LB Shawne Merriman (foot), WR Legedu Naanee (foot), S Eric Weddle (knee)
Limited participation: WR Vincent Jackson (achilles)
Full participation: LB Kevin Burnett (neck), DE Jacques Cesaire (elbow), DE Travis Johnson (groin), P Mike Scifres (left groin)

Patriots Shuffle Roster

The New England Patriots shuffled their roster in advance of Sunday's regular season finale against the Houston Texans, waiving defensive lineman Titus Adams and signing center Ryan Wendell off the practice squad.

Because the Patriots do more to reward their practice squad players than just about every other team in the league, Wendell actually won't receive an increase in salary. Practice squad players usually receive $5,200 per week, or $88,400 over a 17-week season, but in the last weeks, the Patriots quietly bumped Wendell's pay to the minimum base salary for a first-year player ($310,000, or $18,235 per week, before taxes).

Adams, who will be free to sign with another team if he clears waivers, was earning over $8,800 per week on the Patriots' practice squad before he was signed to the active roster in Week 14. Because New England was paying him more than the minimum before signing to the active roster, and likely want to keep him around for the playoffs and 2010, other teams will likely need to dig deep and guarantee him money to pry him away from New England.

Titans Player and Coach Fined

Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports that the NFL has fined Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Chuck Cecil $20,000, and Titans defensive end William Haynes $5,000, for their action after a roughing the passer penalty was called on Hayes during the Titans' 42-17 loss to the San Diego Chargers on Christmas night.

Cecil was fined the $20K for verbally abusing a game official after Hayes was flagged for rouging Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers.

By being flagged, Hayes was already inline to receive a $5,000, which was handed down once the league determined the flagged was legitimately thrown.

Bills Officially Name Nix GM

The Buffalo Bills officially announced the promotion of national scout Buddy Nix to general manager, as well as the promotion of COO/GM Russ Brandon to CEO.

Nix had re-joined the Bills last January after spending eight years heading up the San Diego Chargers' scouting department.

Broncos' Stokley Fined $25,000

Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post reports that Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Stokley was fined $25,000 for making contact with an official during the first quarter of last Sunday's 30-27 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Stokely was ejected from the game.

Bills to Name Buddy Nix New General Manager

The Buffalo Bills created a stir this morning when they announced a 2:30pm ET press conference.

Multiple media outlets are now reporting that the press conference will be to introduce Buddy Nix as the team's new general manager.

Nix, 70, was a scout for the Bills from 1993-2000 before running the San Diego Chargers' scouting department from 2001-08. Nix re-joined the Bills last January as their national scout.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen notes that Nix has a connection to Marty Schottenheimer, who has expressed a desire to return to the NFL sidelines. Buffalo fired Dick Jauron earlier this season, and are currently coached on an interim basis by Perry Fewell.

Bears DT Harris Knows Lovie Smith Will Be Back

Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports that Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris doesn't just think Bears head coach Lovie Smith will be back in 2010, he knows he'll be back.

"I don't play into that. I know he'll be back," Harris said. "He deserves every reason to. We just went to the Super Bowl a couple of years ago. He's done some great things and Monday night everybody played their heart out and we're going to do the same on Sunday.

"The players believe in him, he's got great players that play well and guys play hard for him. I just think he believes in what he teaches and he sticks with it, that's what makes him great."

Since Smith has several million dollars remaining on his contract, it wouldn't be a surprise if he's back on the Bears' sidelines in 2010, especially since the prospect of a lockout looms large over 2011. It's questionable whether the McCaskey family be comfortable with not only paying Smith, who ownership really likes, millions to not coach the team while agreeing to a big-money contract with a Mike Shanahan or Bill Cowher, only to have them not coach in 2011, as well?

General manager Jerry Angelo, whose job should not be safe, says ownership won't fret about finances when it comes to the head coaching position, but I'm skeptical that they'd be willing to spend tens of millions to upgrade the position when the problem might be as easily fixed by removing Ron Turner as offensive coordinator.

"I Am Jumbotronicus"

Well played, philadelphiaeagles.com. Well played.

Raiders Place Norris, Nixon on IR

The Oakland Raiders have placed wide receiver Nick Miller and linebacker Slade Norris on injured reserve.

Miller has been inactive the entire season with a shin injury, while Norris, who was added to the active roster in Week 12, has a hamstring injury.

To replace Miller and Norris, the Raiders have promoted rookie safety Jerome Boyd (Oregon) and first-year defensive end Greyson Gunheim off their practice squad.

Giants Place Jacobs, Ross on IR

The New York Giants announced that running back Brandon Jacobs (knee) and cornerback Aaron Ross (hamstring) have been placed on injured reserve, ending their 2009 seasons.

Jacobs ran for 835 yards and 5 touchdowns this season, the first of a four-year, $25 million dollar contract extension he signed last February.

After starting 15 games a season ago, Ross was injured in the Giants' final practice of training camp, and missed more than half of the season before returning in Week 11. Ross last four games before re-injuring his left hamstring, and finishes the season with just 10 tackles.

To replace Jacobs and Ross, the Giants signed quarterback Rhett Bomar and safety Sha'Reff Rashad off their practice squad. First-year guard Rueben Riley and undrafted rookie wide receiver Bruce Francis were signed to the practice squad.

Saints' McCray Regrets Remarks

New Orleans Saints defensive end Bobby McCray regrets making disparaging remarks about the police officer who arrested him for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

McCray wrotes on his Twitter page that the officer "was a short guy with a Napoleon complex".

McCray apologized for that on Wednesday, while maintaining his innocence of the charges.

"I regret that my private messages were unintentionally posted on Twitter, " McCray said in a statement issued by his publicist. "I have respect for the men and women who serve the New Orleans Police Department, and I never meant to convey otherwise. My attorneys are now handling the matter, and I have faith that the legal process will rectify the situation in my favor."

The Saints will allow the legal process to run its course before disciplining McCray, a backup defensive end who has 1.5 quarterback sacks this season.

NFL News and Notes - December 31, 2009

Here's your NYE spin around the National Football League.

New England Patriots guard Logan Mankins would like a contract extension.

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Terrell Owens acknowledges that he hasn't played up to his standards.

After a shaky start, Miami Dolphins left tackle Jake Long has had a solid season.

New York Jets wide receiver Braylon Edwards guaranteed that they won't lose on Sunday night.

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker LaMarr Woodley thinks the teams the Steelers need to win will lay down on Sunday, thus keeping the Steelers out of the playoffs.

Cleveland Browns first-round center Alex Mack's punishment laps have paid off.

The Baltimore Ravens offensive line will be tested this Sunday.

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco has no plans to rest this Sunday.

Houston Texans running back Arian Foster could get the start on Sunday.

With nearly no hope of making the playoffs, the Jacksonville Jaguars are motivated to finish the season strong.

The Tennessee Titans are stunned that none of their offensive linemen made the Pro Bowl.

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay agreed with the decision to pull the starters last Sunday.

The Denver Broncos are taking a wait and see approach to Brandon Marshall, who was injured his practice on Wednesday.

Topping 1,000 yards rushing is a goal for running back Jamaal Charles and the rest of the Kansas City Chiefs offense.

Quarterback Philip Rivers was voted the San Diego Chargers' most valuable player.

The Oakland Raiders are once again playing the role of spoiler.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams says he's pressing to make plays.

New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora says change is needed for him to remain with the team.

Playing without center Jamaal Jackson will be a tough test for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Washington Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell faces an uncertain future.

Writers in Chicago are finally realizing that the Chicago Bears haven't done quarterback Jay Cutler any favors.

Only a few Detroit Lions have job security beyond Sunday, writes Tim Twentyman of the Detroit News.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been consistent in his 31 starts since Brett Favre left town.

Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams defended his performance from Monday night.

The Atlanta Falcons aren't happy that they were shut out of the Pro Bowl.

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Muhsin Muhammed has no plans to retire after the season.

Playing better while staying healthy is the top priority for the New Orleans Saints this Sunday.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Bryant wants to return in 2010, but vented his frustration about his lack of involvement in the offense this season.

St. Louis Rams quarterback Kyle Boller would like to return in 2010.

The Arizona Cardinals will be doing some scoreboard watching on Sunday.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Isaac Bruce will likely play this Sunday in St. Louis after his teammates lobbied the coaching staff to make him active.

The Seattle Seahawks' offense has fans and media alike asking "Where are the points?".

Today's NFL birthdays: Bills defensive Jermaine McGee (26), Texans cornerback Fred Bennett (26), Colts safety Travis Key (24), Vikings linebacker Fred Evans (28), Patriots practice squad wide receiver Darnell Jenkins (27), Chargers linebacker Antwan Applewhite (24), Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell (28), as well as free agent fullback Patrick Pass (32).

NFL Injury Report - 2009 Week 17 (Wed.)

Here's the official NFL Injury/Practice Participation report for Wednesday, December 30, 2009:

Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Atlanta

Did not participate: K Matt Bryant (right hamstring), TE Tony Gonzalez (calf), P Michael Koenen (head), LB Curtis Lofton (shoulder, hamstring), S Charlie Peprah (hamstring), QB Matt Ryan (toe), RB Michael Turner (ankle), WR Eric Weems (head)
Limited participation: DE Jamaal Anderson (chest), DT Jonathan Babineaux (shoulder), T Sam Baker (elbow, hamstring)

Tampa Bay

Did not participate: RB Derrick Ward (knee), G Jeremy Zuttah (toe)
Limited participation: DT Roy Miller (hamstring), TE Kellen Winslow (knee)

Baltimore Ravens at Oakland Raiders

Baltimore

Did not participate: WR Derrick Mason (knee), DE Trevor Pryce (illness), S Ed Reed (groin), LB Terrell Suggs (thigh)
Limited participation: T Oniel Cousins (knee), LB Tavares Gooden (groin)
Full participation: T Jared Gaither (foot), LB Jarret Johnson (back, knee), CB Cary Williams (thigh)

Oakland

Did not participate: DE Greg Ellis (knee), RB Justin Fargas (knee), QB Bruce Gradkowski (knees), T Langston Walker (ankle)
Limited participation: WR Darrius Heyward-Bey (foot), CB Chris Johnson (hamstring)
Full participation: DT Gerard Warren (shoulder)

Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions

Chicago

Did not participate: S Al Afalava (knee), WR Johnny Knox (ankle), S Danieal Manning (calf), S Craig Steltz (foot)
Limited participation: DT Tommie Harris (knee), WR Devin Hester (calf), S Kevin Payne (ankle)

NOTE: CB Charles Tillman (ribs) and DT Israel Idonije (foot) were listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but have since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

Detroit

Did not participate: S Louis Delmas (knee), LB Larry Foote (foot)
Limited participation: CB Phillip Buchanon (shoulder), DT Joe Cohen (knee), LB Jordon Dizon (neck), DT Grady Jackson (knee), QB Drew Stanton (ankle), CB Brian Witherspoon (ankle)
Full participation: DE Dewayne White (toe)

Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets

Cincinnati

Did not participate: S Chris Crocker (ankle), DE Robert Geathers (knee), DT Tank Johnson (foot)
Limited participation: DT Jonathan Fanene (shoulder), TE J.P. Foschi (neck), DT Domata Peko (knee)

NOTE: LB Rey Maualuga (ankle) was listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but has since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

New York Jets

Did not participate: RB Thomas Jones (not injury related), CB Darrelle Revis (illness), RB Tony Richardson (not injury related), CB Donald Strickland (quadricep)
Limited participation: DE Shaun Ellis (knee)
Full participation: RB Shonn Greene (shoulder), QB Mark Sanchez (knee), G Robert Turner (knee)

Green Bay Packers at Arizona Cardinals

Green Bay

OUT: S Derrick Martin (ankle)
Did not participate: LB Nick Barnett (illness), LB Brandon Chillar (back), DT Ryan Pickett (hamstring)
Limited participate: T Chad Clifton (knee), RB Korey Hall (elbow), DE Johnny Jolly (foot), DE Mike Montgomery (ankle), CB Charles Woodson (shoulder)
Full participation: CB Trevor Ford (knee)

NOTE: LB Jeremy Thompson (neck) was listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but has since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

Arizona

Did not participate: S Antrel Rolle (thigh)
Limited participation: DE Kenny Iwebema (head), RB Dan Kreider (neck), WR Sean Morey (head), TE Ben Patrick (head), K Neil Rackers (right groin), CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (toe), RB Chris Wells (groin)
Full participation: LB Will Davis (knee), WR Larry Fitzgerald (elbow), CB Gregory Toler (elbow)

Indianapolis Colts at Buffalo Bills

Indianapolis

Did not participate: RB Donald Brown (illness), WR Austin Collie (not injury related), DT Keyunta Dawson (knee), T Kyle DeVan (illness), DE Dwight Freeney (not injury related), DT Antonio Johnson (shoulder), T Charlie Johnson (foot), CB Jacob Lacey (biceps), DE Robert Mathis (quadricep), DT Fili Moala (knee), CB Jerraud Powers (hamstring), TE Gijon Robinson (knee), LB Clint Session (knee), RB Chad Simpson (concussion)
Limited participation: CB Melvin Bullitt (shoulder), WR Pierre Garcon (hand)
Full participation: RB Joseph Addai (shoulder), CB Antoine Bethea (foot), LB Gary Brackett (foot), T Ryan Diem (elbow), CB Aaron Francisco (hand), LB Cody Glenn (shoulder), RB Mike Hart (ankle), CB Tim Jennings (ankle), DT Daniel Muir (shoulder), G Jamey Richard (shoulder), T Tony Ugoh (knee), K Adam Vinatieri (right knee), WR Reggie Wayne (foot)

Buffalo

Did not participate: QB Trent Edwards (ankle), LB Nic Harris (knee), S Todd Johnson (hamstring), WR Josh Reed (ankle), LB Bryan Scott (head), T Jonathan Scott (ankle), DT Marcus Stroud (back), TE Jonathan Stupar (knee)
Limited participation: QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (ankle), LB Ashlee Palmer (ankle)

Jacksonville Jaguars at Cleveland Browns

Jacksonville

Did not participate: DT Atiyyah Ellison (knee), WR Torry Holt (hand), TE Marcedes Lewis (cheek, head), CB Rashean Mathis (groin), S Anthony Smith (ankle)

Cleveland

Did not participate: DE Kenyon Coleman (ankle, elbow), WR Brian Robiskie (ankle), DE Robaire Smith (groin), T John St. Clair (ankle), RB Lawrence Vickers (groin), DE Corey Williams (ankle)
Limited participation: LB David Bowens (knee), LB Titus Brown (hamstring), G Rex Hadnot (knee), T Joe Thomas (shoulder), S Raymond Ventrone (finger)
Full participation: CB Mike Adams (elbow), RB Chris Jennings (shoulder)

Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos

Kansas City

Limited participation: G Andy Alleman (back), CB Brandon Flowers (shoulder)
Full participation: DE Alex Magee (hamstring)

Denver

Did not participate: WR Eddie Royal (head/neck), TE Daniel Graham (knee)
Limited participation: WR Brandon Marshall (hamstring), CB Ty Law (hamstring), FB Spencer Larson (hamstring), LB Darrell Reid (knee)

New England Patriots at Houston Texans

New England

Did not participate: QB Tom Brady (right shoulder, right finger, rib), WR Randy Moss (not injury related)
Limited participation: DE Jarvis Green (knee), DE Ty Warren (ankle), WR Wes Welker (not injury related), DT Vince Wilfork (foot)
Full participation: WR Julian Edelman (forearm), T Nick Kaczur (shoulder), CB Shawn Springs (knee), TE Benjamin Watson (knee)

Houston

Did not participate: T Duane Brown (knee), DT Shaun Cody (knee), LB Brian Cushing (foot, ribs)
Limited participation: TE Joel Dreessen (shoulder), WR Jacoby Jones (shoulder)

New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers

New Orleans

Did not participate: DE Bobby McCray (back), WR Lance Moore (ankle), S Darren Sharper (knee), TE David Thomas (calf), RB Pierre Thomas (rib), LB Jonathan Vilma (knee), S Usama Young (abdomen)
Limited participation: T Jermon Bushrod (wrist), TE Darnell Dinkins (foot), DT Sedrick Ellis (knee), G Jahri Evans (foot), CB Randall Gay (concussion), CB Jabari Greer (groin), RB Lynell Hamilton (shoulder), LS Jason Kyle (back), LB Scott Shanle (concussion), TE Jeremy Shockey (toe)

Carolina

Did not participate: CB Richard Marshall (ankle), WR Muhsin Muhammad (ankle), T Geoff Schwartz (groin), WR Steve Smith (forearm), RB Jonathan Stewart (achilles), RB Tyrell Sutton (calf), RB DeAngelo Williams (ankle)
Limited participation: QB Matt Moore (rib)

New York Giants at Minnesota Vikings

NY Giants

OUT: RB Brandon Jacobs (knee)
Did not participate: RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle, foot), WR Mario Manningham (shoulder), T Kareem McKenzie (knee), CB Aaron Ross (hamstring), CB Corey Webster (knee)
Limited participation: DT Chris Canty (knee), WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring), DT Fred Robbins (lower leg), G Rich Seubert (knee)
Full participation: QB Eli Manning (foot)

Minnesota

Did not participate: DT Jimmy Kennedy (thumb), TE Visanthe Shiancoe (thigh)
Limited participation: S Eric Frampton (ankle), G Steve Hutchinson (shoulder), C John Sullivan (knee), DT Pat Williams (elbow), CB Antoine Winfield (foot)

Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys

Philadelphia

Did not participate: QB Michael Vick (quadricep)
Full participation: WR Reggie Brown (shoulder), C Nick Cole (knee), S Quintin Demps (ankle), WR Jeremy Maclin (foot)

Dallas

Did not participate: T Marc Colombo (ankle), S Pat Watkins (knee)
Full participation: WR Miles Austin (thumb), CB Terence Newman (knee), S Gerald Sensabaugh (thumb), LB DeMarcus Ware (wrist)

Pittsburgh Steelers at Miami Dolphins

Pittsburgh

Did not participate: LB James Farrior (not injury related), DE Brett Keisel (neck), G Chris Kemoeatu (wrist), DE Travis Kirschke (calf), WR Hines Ward (hamstring)
Limited participation: LB Rocky Boiman (calf), RB Willie Parker (shoulder), S Troy Polamalu (knee)

Miami

Full participation: T Vernon Carey (knee), RB Ricky Williams (shoulder)

San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams

San Francisco

Did not participate: DE Justin Smith (not injury related), WR Isaac Bruce (ankle), T Joe Staley (knee), K Joe Nedney (hamstring), CB Nate Clements (shoulder)
Limited participation: QB Shaun Hill (back), G Chilo Rachal (knee)
Full participation: RB Glen Coffee (thigh)

St. Louis

Did not participate: CB Quincy Butler (knee), RB Steven Jackson (back), LB Paris Lenon (toe), DE Leonard Little (knee), G Mark Setterstrom (tricep)
Limited participation: WR Donnie Avery (thigh), LB James Laurinaitis (knee), T Jason Smith (concussion)

Tennessee Titans at Seattle Seahawks

Tennessee

Did not participate: DT Tony Brown (knee, quadricep), T Troy Kropog (calf), C Kevin Mawae (elbow), CB Ryan Mouton (ankle)

NOTE: LB Keith Bulluck (knee) and CB Nick Harper (forearm) were listed as "OUT" on the injury report, but have since been placed on "Injured Reserve"

Seattle

OUT: WR Nate Burleson (ankle)
Did not participate: LB Aaron Curry (shoulder), LB LeRoy Hill (knee), RB Julius Jones (rib), CB Josh Wilson (hip)

Washington Redskins at San Diego Chargers

Washington

Did not participate: DT Albert Haynesworth (hip), S LaRon Landry (head), WR Devin Thomas (ankle)
Limited participation: LB Rocky McIntosh (back), WR Santana Moss (knee)

San Diego

Did not participate: LB Kevin Burnett (neck), RB Jacob Hester (shoulder), DE Travis Johnson (groin), WR Legedu Naanee (foot), S Eric Weddle (knee), LB Shawne Merriman (knee), WR Vincent Jackson (Achilles),
Full participation: P Mike Scifres (groin), DE Jacques Cesaire (elbow)

Good News, Bad News for St. Louis Rams Fans

The bad news for St. Louis Rams fans is that around 8,000 tickets remain for this Sunday's season finale against the San Francisco 49ers. That means that if you want to say "Goodbye" to Isaac Bruce, you'll have to find your way to the Edwards Jones Dome to do it, because its unlikely to be shown on local television.

The good news, though, is that tonight's Holiday Bowl (ESPN, 8pm ET) won't be blacked out locally, so you'll get a chance to watch Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, who the Rams will most likely be able to select with the 1st overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.

Provided, of course, that the Rams don't go do something crazy like win this Sunday.

Broncos' Marshall Injured at Practice

Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall appeared to injure his right hamstring during practice on Wednesday, Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post reports.

Marshall was running a pass route when he "pulled up, grabbed the back of his leg and took a knee before limping over to talk to head trainer Steve Antonopolous", Jones reports.

With Eddie Royal (head) not practicing, the Broncos were down to just Brandon Stokley, Jabar Gaffney, Brandon Lloyd, and practice squadder Matt Willis at the wide receiver position.

Titans Place Bulluck, Harper on IR

The Tennessee Titans have placed linebacker Keith Bulluck and cornerback Nick Harper on injured reserve, Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports.

Tennessee has added first-year guard Fernando Velasco off their own practice squad, and signed cornerback Jamar Love off the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad.

Love entered the NFL this season as an undrafted free agent from Arkansas. He made 8 tackles during the pre-season, but was waived at the end of training camp. Prior to signing with the Buccaneers' practice squad, Love spent a month on the Dallas Cowboys practice squad.

Jason Smith Returns to Rams Practice

Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that St. Louis Rams first-round offensive tackle Jason Smith, the second overall pick of the 2009 NFL Draft, returned to practice today for the first time since suffering a concussion on November 22.

"It was a great relief to, No. 1, pass the best and then to be able to be around the team, be at practice and be able to do something," Smith said after practice on Wednesday. "We took the test a couple of days ago, and I was able to pass it. We started taking it one day at a time from there, doing light workouts and seeing how the head reacts."

Neither the team nor Smith has ruled out the possibility of him playing in Sunday's season finale against the San Francisco 49ers.

Colts Re-Sign QB Willy to Practice Squad

The Indianapolis Colts re-signed quarterback Drew Willy to the practice squad on Wednesday.

Willy, an undrafted free agent from the University of Buffalo who went to training camp with the Baltimore Ravens, was signed to the active roster on Saturday and served as the emergency backup in the Colts' controversial 29-15 loss to the New York Jets on Sunday. Willy was waived on Monday, and his spot on the active roster has been filled by first-year wide receiver Samuel Giguere.

Joining Willy in signing with the Colts' practice squad on Wednesday were undrafted rookie wide receiver John Matthews and first-year linebacker Brandon Renkart.

Bears Place Two on IR, Sign Two Off Practice Squad

The Chicago Bears have placed cornerback Charles Tillman and defensive lineman Israel Idonije on injured reserve, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Quarterback Brett Basanez and cornerback Woodny Turenne have been signed off the team's practice squad to replace them on the 53-man roster.

Basanez and Turenne have been on the Bears' practice squad the entire season. Both figure to be inactive in Sunday's regular season finale, but this is a way for the front office to reward the player by giving them a check that is 3.5x larger than the $5,200 per week they'd get had they remained on the practice squad.

Bills S Donte Whitner Fined $7500

Buffalo Bills safety Donte Whitner announced via Twitter that he has been fined $7,500 by the NFL for taunting.

"Just received a fine of $7500 from the nfl....for taunting an opponent...but I didn't get a flag!!!! How?"

Well Donte, just because the official missed you taunting an opponent, doesn't mean the eye in the sky--which does not lie--missed you taunting an opponent.

Bengals Place Maualuga on IR

The Cincinnati Bengals announced that they have placed second-round linebacker Rey Maualuga on injured reserve, and have signed tight end Darius Hill off their practice squad.

Rookie free agent tight end Carson Butler (49ers) was signed to the practice squad.

Maualuga fractured his left ankle during Sunday's 17-10 win over the Kansas City Chiefs. The former USC standout finished his season with 63 tackles and a quarterback sack.

Tom Brady Wins Patriots' Ed Block Courage Award

The one team that had yet to announce their recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award was the New England Patriots, but that changed on Wednesday, as the team announced that quarterback Tom Brady has been selected for the award.

Brady has bounced back from a serious knee injury in the 2008 season-opener to have a Pro Bowl season, having thrown for 4,212 yards, 28 touchdowns and was named to the AFC Pro Bowl squad on Tuesday, two days after the Patriots clinched their seventh AFC East crown of the decade.

Here's the full list of 2009 Ed Block Courage Award winners.

Packers Place LB Jeremy Thompson on IR

Tom Pelissero of the Green Bay Press-Gazette reports that the Green Bay Packers have placed linebacker Jeremy Thompson on injured reserve.

First-year nose tackle Anthony Toribio was signed off the team's practice squad to replace Thompson on the 53-man roster, with rookie wide receiver Khalil Jones (Falcons) replacing Toribio on the practice squad.

Thompson, a second-year linebacker from Wake Forest, suffered a "stinger" during a December 4 practice that required Thompson to spend the night in a hospital.

Toribio's ascension to the active roster makes this a good week for his alma mater, Carson-Newman, a Division II school that has also produced Philadelphia Eagles fullback Leonard Weaver, who was named to the NFC Pro Bowl squad on Tuesday.

Giants' Jacobs Won't Play in Season Finale

According to Mike Garafolo of the Star-Ledger, New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs will have his knee scoped and will not play in the team's season finale against the ....

Jacobs ran for 835 yards and 5 touchdowns on 224 carries this season, the first year of a four-year, $25 million dollar contract extension he signed after last season. He added 18 receptions for 184 yards as a receiver, including a 74-yard touchdown in the Giants' Week 13 win over the Dallas Cowboys.

The Giants have been eliminated from the post-season, so there's no reason to risk long-term damage to Jacobs by playing him when he's less than 100% on Sunday. No decision has been made on whether or not to place Jacobs on injured reserve, but doing so would allow the Giants to sign a player off their practice squad. This would create a spot on the practice squad for them to get an early jump by signing a player they've identified for a "futures" contract next month.

Redskins Sign RB Hill, CB McCauley

The Washington Redskins have signed free agent cornerback Marcus McCauley, and added running back P.J. Hill off the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad.

To make room, they have placed offensive lineman Mike Williams and safety Reed Doughty on injured reserve. Williams tore a muscle in his foot and Doughty suffered a high ankle sprain during the Redskins' 17-0 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night.

McCauley, a third-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2007, has been well-traveled since the Vikings released him at the beginning of September. He spent the first month of the season with the Detroit Lions, before spending a couple of weeks each with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints.

Hill, an undrafted free agent from Wisconsin, who signed with the Saints last April. Hill ran for 128 yards and three touchdowns during the pre-season, but was released at the end of training camp and signed to the Saints' practice squad. Philadelphia signed Hill to their active roster midway through the season, and released him two weeks ago before re-signing him to their practice squad.

Bears' Tillman Still in Hospital

Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman remains hospitalized after suffering several cracked ribs and suffering a bruised lung during Monday night's 36-30 overtime win over the Minnesota Vikings.

Tillman was injured during the fourth quarter, when he and teammate Craig Steltz collided while making a tackle. Tillman took Steltz's helmet directly to the rib cage, which has damaged Tillman's right lung. He was removed from the field on a stretcher, and a member of the Bears' medical staff was administering oxygen to Tillman, the first indicator that Tillman's lungs had sustained some trauma.

The seven-year veteran from Louisiana-Lafayette is expected to remain at Northwest Memorial Hospital for a few more days, making him unlikely to play in Sunday's regular season finale against the Detroit Lions.

NFL News and Notes - December 30, 2009

Here's a Pro Bowl-centric spin around the NFL.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Miles Austin's Pro Bowl bid shows how far he's come, writes Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News.

Center Shaun O'Hara was the only member of the New York Giants to be named to the Pro Bowl, though six players are alternates.

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid belongs in the Coach of the Year discussion, writes Paul Domowitch of the Philadelphia Daily News.

First-round defensive end/linebacker Brian Orakpo is the Washington Redskins' lone Pro Bowler, one of three rookies to play in Miami the week before the Super Bowl.

David Haugh of the Chicago Tribune thinks now is the time for the Chicago Bears to address head coach Lovie Smith's future.

Detroit Lions first-round quarterback Matthew Stafford underwent successful knee surgery on Tuesday.

Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson is the team's lone Pro Bowl starter.

Thanks to some good ol' fashioned ballot-stuffing, the Minnesota Vikings are sending an NFL-high eight players to the Pro Bowl.

The Atlanta Falcons were shut out of this year's Pro Bowl.

As were the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

By being named to the Pro Bowl, Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers earned a $1.5 million dollar bonus.

A handful of New Orleans Saints were named to the Pro Bowl.

Running back Steven Jackson was the only St. Louis Rams player to make the Pro Bowl.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt has scaled back his player's workload.

Three San Francisco 49ers were named to the Pro Bowl team.

Three Seattle Seahawks wide receivers blasted head coach Jim Mora's college roommate for critical comments he's made about them on a Seattle sports radio station.

The New England Patriots offense is beginning to click under quarterbacks coach/play-caller Bill O'Brien.

Buffalo Bills second-round safety Jairus Byrd was named to the Pro Bowl, though he won't play.

Miami Dolphins left tackle Jake Long was the lone Dolphin to be named to the Pro Bowl.

The New York Jets will make the playoffs, but they won't last long, writes Gary Myers of the New York Daily News.

Despite going 10-5 and sweeping the AFC North, no Cincinnati Bengals player was named to the Pro Bowl.

A pair of Cleveland Browns were named to the Pro Bowl.

Five Baltimore Ravens made the Pro Bowl, including middle linebacker Ray Lewis, who is going to his 11th Pro Bowl.

Only two Pittsburgh Steelers made the Pro Bowl, and none were on offense.

A franchise-record four Houston Texans were named to the Pro Bowl, including first-round linebacker Brian Cushing.

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew was named to the Pro Bowl.

Tennessee Titans second-year running back Chris Johnson is headed to his second Pro Bowl.

Five Indianapolis Colts made the Pro Bowl, including first-timer, tight end Dallas Clark.

Denver Broncos outside linebacker Elvis Dumervil leads a contingent of five Broncos who are headed to the Pro Bowl.

The Kansas City Chiefs are still waiting for wide receiver Dwayne Bowe to prove himself.

Five San Diego Chargers are Pro Bowl-bound.

Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha and punter Shane Lechler were named to the AFC Pro Bowl team.

Today's NFL birthdays: Ravens running back Jalen Parmele (24) and safety Dawan Landry (27), Panthers quarterback Hunter Cantwell (24), Lions center Dominic Raiola (31), Dolphins nose tackle Paul Soliai (26) and practice squad wide receiver Julius Pruitt (24), Saints fullbacks Kyle Eckel (28) and Heath Evans (31), Seahawks defensive end Patrick Kerney (33), Titans quarterback Kerry Collins (37), and Redskins wide receiver Malcolm Kelly (23).

Matthews Stafford's Has Successful Knee Surgery

Tim Twentyman of the Detroit News reports that Detroit Lions first-round quarterback Matthew Stafford underwent successful knee surgery on Tuesday.

Orthopedic surgeron Dr. James Andrews performed a minor procedure on Stafford's right knee today in his Birmingham, Alabama office.

The first overall pick from Georgia completed 201-of-377 passes for 2,267 yards and 13 touchdowns and 20 interceptions during his rookie season.

Seahawks WRs Tee Off on Local Analyst

Seattle Seahawks wide receivers Nate Burleson and Deion Branch host a weekly radio show on 950-KJR, the same station--and host, Dave "Softy" Mahler--that aired a weekly "NFL Show" with former head coach and current Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren, during his first year away from head coach of the Seahawks.

Today, the Branch & Burleson Show was joined in the KJR studios by T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and it didn't take long for Branch to call out KJR football analyst Hugh Millen.

"This is Deion Branch...I'm going to give it to you raw and uncut. Hey, I've been a part of two Super Bowls. Nobody on this football team has been a part of it, period. No coach. Nobody. I have. I've won two of them. The bottom line is are we winning? No. Do we have a good team? Yes. To Hugh Millen and [KJR afternoon host] Ian Furness. We have a good football team. Are we talented? Yes. Are we playing good? No. We're not playing good football...We're not executing plays."

Houshmandzadeh quickly chimed in, saying "This is coming from a guy [Millen] that's got 22 career touchdowns and 35 interceptions. And I can show you why he's got 35 interceptions: He doesn't know coverages."

Branch also took issue with Millen and Furness, blaming everyone for the team's blowout the last three weeks, except one person.

Mahler: "Let's explain the last three weeks of blowouts for Seahawks football."

Branch: "Execution. We're not executing out plays. And that's the bottom line."

Mahler: "Why? Why not?"

Branch: "It can be a combination of everything, but let Hugh Millen and Ian Furness tell you that everybody's messing up, except one guy. And I'm not hitting on nobody in here. I'm going to give it to you raw and uncut--"

Mahler: "Everybody is messing except for--

Branch (talking over the end of Mahler's question): "except for Matt Hasselbeck"

Mahler: "one guy. Are you talking about the quarterback?"

Branch: "Yes sir."

Mahler: "Wow."

Branch: "And I'm going to tell you right now, I love Matt Hasselbeck to death. But guess what? When we lose, we all lose. Everybody that boards that plane, we all lose. It's not 52 people lose the game, except for one guy. That's the bottom line. Everybody lose. The quarterback lose, the receivers lose. We all make mistakes. This is not a perfect game. You will not take the football field and play a perfect game. Everybody lose together, as a team. But for these guys to sit up and say 'T.J. messed up', 'Deion Branch messed up', 'The offensive line messed up', 'The entire defense messed up'--that's wrong for them to say that."

Houshmandzadeh then interjected, adding that he had other options in free agency, but chose to come to Seattle because he thought he'd have a better chance to win there. He added that he, Branch, and Burleson had prior success before arriving in Seattle, and then took what appears to be a shot at offensive coordinator Greg Knapp.

"When you bring guys together, one, you have to trust the people that are making decisions," Houshmandzadeh said. "You've got to trust the people that are calling plays. You've got to trust everything that's going on in order for things to work. If that trust is not there, you're always going to second-guess things. There are times in games where everybody's effort isn't what it should be, and I think that's for teams that are undefeated, or were undefeated. Everybody does not go 100% every play. That's not football, that's not how it works. That's just how it is."

KJR then got Millen on the phone, and things got even more interesting. It's well worth a listen, and it's important to note that Millen and Seahawks head coach Jim Mora were college roommates.

I found it astonishing that three veteran wide receivers, who are the 4th (Houshmandzadeh), 5th (Branch), and 8th (Burleson) highest-paid players on the entire roster, would go on the radio and not only call out media members, but to do so because those media members are not calling out the quarterback, too.

Let this be another example of why Seahawks CEO Tod Leiweke needs to abandon the organization's "We're not going to join them, they're going to join us" approach towards finding a new general manager. The Seahawks not only need to detoxify it's roster, it needs to amiable towards changing a coaching staff that allows such behavior to manifest itself on local airwaves.

Put another way: This kind of thing wouldn't have happened if the players had any respect whatsoever for the coaching staff.

2010 NFL Pro Bowl Rosters

The NFL has announced the AFC and NFC Pro Bowl rosters.

Compared with who I thought would make it, I picked 15 starters and 3 of the 4 specialists (I omitted the "ST" spot altogether. Brainfart) in the AFC, and 20 starters and 2 of the 4 specialists in the NFC.

Ray Rice Named to AFC Pro Bowl

In an another example of how Twitter is changing the media landscape, Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice's brother, Markell Rice, announced over Twitter that Ray had been named to the AFC Pro Bowl roster.

"SHOUT OUT TO BIG LIL BRO @RayRice27 .. MADE THE PRO BOWL !! LET'S GET IT"

Rice is fourth in the AFC in rushing with 1,269 yards and has 7 rushing touchdowns. He also leads all AFC running backs with 74 receptions and 683 yards receiving. Overall, he's scored eight touchdowns this season.

PFT: Two Browns Make Pro Bowl

Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports that a pair of Cleveland Browns have been named to the AFC's Pro Bowl roster.

They are offensive tackle Joe Thomas, who will make his third trip to the Pro Bowl in as many seasons, and return specialist Josh Cribbs, who'll be making his first Pro Bowl appearance.

The NFL's full announcement will be at 7pm ET today on the NFL Network. I gave my opinion on who'll make the Pro Bowl here.

Mac's 2009 Pro Bowl Teams

The NFL will announce the AFC and NFC Pro Bowl rosters at 7pm ET. Here's one man's opinion of who'll make it.

AFC

Offense

QB - Peyton Manning, Indianapolis
RB - Chris Johnson, Tennessee
FB - Lousaka Polite, Miami
WR - Andre Johnson, Houston
WR - Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis
TE - Dallas Clark, Indianapolis
OT - Michael Roos, Tennessee
OT - Ryan Clady, Denver
OG - Logan Mankins, New England
OG - Alan Faneca, NY Jets
OC - Jeff Saturday, Indianapolis

Defense

DE - Dwight Freeney, Indianapolis
DT - Haloti Ngata, Baltimore
DT - Domata Peko, Cincinnati
DE - Aaron Schobel, Buffalo
OLB - Elvis Dumervil, Denver
OLB - James Harrison, Pittsburgh
ILB/MLB - David Harris, NY Jets
CB - Darrelle Revis, NY Jets
CB - Nnamdi Asomugha, Oakland
S - Brian Dawkins, Denver
S - Antoine Bethea, Indianapolis

Specialists

P - Shane Lechler, Oakland
K - Nate Kaeding, San Diego
ST - Josh Cribbs, Cleveland

NFC

Offense

QB - Drew Brees, New Orleans
RB - Adrian Peterson, Minnesota
FB - Leonard Weaver, Philadelphia
WR - Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona
WR - Miles Austin, Dallas
TE - Vernon Davis, San Francisco
OT - Bryant McKinnie, Minnesota
OT - Jason Peters, Philadelphia
OG - Steve Hutchinson, Minnesota
OG - Jahri Evans, New Orleans
OC - Andre Gurode, Dallas

Defense

DE - Jared Allen, Minnesota
DT - Kevin Williams, Minnesota
DT - Darnell Dockett, Arizona
DE - Julius Peppers, Carolina
OLB - DeMarcus Ware, Dallas
OLB - Clay Matthews, Green Bay
ILB/MLB - Patrick Willis, San Francisco
CB - Charles Woodson, Green Bay
CB - Asante Samuel, Philadelphia
S - Darren Sharper, New Orleans
S - Adrian Wilson, Arizona

Specialists

P - Andy Lee, San Francisco
K - David Akers, Philadelphia
ST - Percy Harvin, Minnesota

Eagles Place Jamaal Jackson on IR

Adam Caplan of Scout.com reports that the Philadelphia Eagles have announced that they have placed center Jamaal Jackson on injured reserve, and have signed offensive lineman Dallas Reynolds off their practice squad.

To replace Reynolds, Caplan reports the Eagles have signed safety Brandon Harrison, an undrafted rookie from Michigan who was with the team during the second half of the pre-season.

Falcons Sign Kicker, Place Two on IR

The Atlanta Falcons have announced that they have placed cornerback Chris Houston and guard Harvey Dahl on injured reserve.

To fill those spots on the 53-man roster, they have signed linebacker Robert James off their practice squad and signed free agent kicker Steven Hauschka.

Hauschka, a second-year kicker from North Carolina State, was 9-of-13 on field goal tries earlier this season before being released in the middle of November. Hauschka originally tried out for the Falcons, but lost the kicking competition to Matt Bryant, who injured his hamstring on Sunday.

For his career, Hauschka is 10-of-15 on field goal attempts, and has hit on 27-of-28 extra points.

James was a fifth-round pick by the Falcons in 2008 who spent all of last season on injured reserve and all of this season on the team's practice squad.

Terms of their deals were not disclosed.

Houston, a second-round pick out of Arkansas in 2007, had started ten games at right cornerback this season before injuring his hamstrings against Philadelphia in Week 13. He's been inactive the following two games. Dahl, an undrafted free agent from Nevada, started 27 straight games at right guard for the Falcons, but has been out since Week 12 with an ankle injury.

Unlike Houston, Dahl is unsigned for 2010.

Saints' McCray Facing DUI Charges

The New Orleans Saints have lost two straight home games, and despite clinching the #1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the NFC Playoffs, they appear to be backing into the post-season.

And now, backup defensive end Bobby McCray has been arrested under suspicion of driving under the influence.

According to New Orleans Police spokesman Gary Flot, McCray was stopped at 4:30 this morning near the I-10 Carrollton overpass and was charged with speeding, driving while intoxicated, no registration and careless operation.

He was released at 7am.

A former seventh-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2004, McCray's best season came during 2006, where he posted a career-high 10 quarterback sacks, but was also arrested for reckless driving and drug possession, after being clocked doing 92 in a 65mph zone while in possession of two Vicodin tablets that were given to him by team doctors during the team's flight home that evening.

The drug charges were later dropped.

McCray's production slipped in 2007, and despite finishing the season strong, he was allowed to hit free agency, signing a 5-year, $20 million dollar contract with the Saints. McCray has appeared in 31 games for the Saints, including starting the second half of last season when Charles Grant was placed on injured reserve.

He has 39 tackles and 7.5 quarterbacks sacks during his time with the Saints, including 1.5 sacks in a reserve role this season.

Randy Moss Fan Unmasked

Christopher Price of WEEI.com reports that the New England Patriots fan wearing the Randy Moss mask and afro who, along with the actual Moss, entertained the Gillette Stadium crowd at the end of the Patriots' 35-7 blowout of the Jacksonville Jaguars...is a 12-year old Connecticut resident who was attending his 1st NFL game.

"I thought it was pretty cool," Josiah Shumaker told WEEI.com Tuesday morning. "I was just trying to have some fun at my first game."

The full exchange between Moss and Shumaker can be viewed on the Patriots' official website.

Panthers' Smith Has Successful Surgery

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith's surgery to repair a broken left forearm was successful, head coach John Fox said on Monday via the Charlotte Observer.

Smith broke his forearm while hauling in a 27-yard touchdown pass from Matt Moore, and Fox praised Smith's toughness for finishing the play, despite the obvious injury.

"He's a pretty tough individual," Fox said. "His finish on the touchdown was pretty unbelievable."

Smith will be placed on injured reserve, with second-year wide receiver Dexter Jackson likely replacing him on the active roster. A second-round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers out of Appalachian State (Boone, NC) in 2008, Jackson (5-9, 182) caught three passes for 28 yards, had two carries for 19 yards, and averaged 20.2 yards on five kick return and 30 yards on four punt returns, including one he returned 83 yards for a touchdown, during two pre-seasons worth of action for the Buccaneers.

The Buccaneers waived Jackson at the end of this year's training camp, and he's been on the Panthers' practice squad since Week 6 of this season.

Cutler's Alleged Middle Finger Salute

Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler demonstrated his Pro Bowl-caliber abilities on Monday night, passing for a season-high 4 touchdowns, including a perfectly-thrown 39-yard strike to Devin Aromashodu to give the Bears an overtime win over the Minnesota Vikings, an NFC North rival that is officially reeling as it enters the post-season.

So of course all anyone is talking about this morning is whether or not he flipped the bird to a booing Soldier Field crowd when the Bears took a knee with less than 10 seconds to go in regulation.

Images of the alleged flipping can be found here and here.

I re-watched the incident, and before flipping the ball to the referee, he gave a dismissive wave towards the crowd with his left hand. It's unclear whether or not he flipped the crowd off, but in the moments after the images captured above, Cutler was in a brief discussion with Matt Forte, who can be seen running off the field in the first image.

It's possible that Cutler was pointing something out to Forte, but since Cutler is also a bit of grumpypuss, it's equally believable that was flipping off the fans he was in the process of delivering a win to.

This may be naive on my part, but I don't think he did it. And if he had, so what. You'd be a bit cranky, too, if you were stuck in Ron Turner's unimaginative offense, with the worst offensive line in football, no running game, and midgets incapable of making a catch in traffic to throw to, while every sportswriter and talking head in the country pounced at every opportunity to bash you for each and every interception you threw.

Colts Fans Aren't Happy

Indianapolis Colts head coach Jim Caldwell, perhaps on the orders of his boss Bill Polian, removed key members when the the Colts led the New York Jets 15-10 in the third quarter. The backup Colts fumbled away the lead, and Indianapolis lost 29-15, ending their run at a perfect season.

Also lost on Sunday was the collective minds of the Indianapolis Colts fanbase.

Take Brent Richards, for example. Brent doesn't plan on renewing the season tickets he's held for 11 years because the Colts are focused on winning a Lombardi Trophy, and not focused on beating a New York Jets team on December 27.

"I know the Colts could probably care less that I am letting my tickets go after 11 years since they have a huge waiting list . . . but at some point they need to realize the 'business' they run has customers and they might want to think about the happiness of those customers," Richards wrote in an e-mail to the Indianapolis Star. "Those customers overwhelmingly think that when you have a chance to do something that has never been done, you do it."

Mr. Richards, what would make you happier? A win over the Jets on December 27, or a parade through downtown Indianapolis in February?

Even the City-County Council is getting involved, as 41-year council member Beurt "The Vowel" SerVaas has drafted a resolution demanding that the NFL refund the money to ticket holders.

As a New Englander, who is surrounded by New England Patriots fans everywhere I go, allow me to clue Colts fans in on something: Every Patriots fan, as well as every Patriots player, coach, and staffer from that 2007 team would gladly trade a regular season loss for an undefeated post-season.

So you can either be grateful that the powers that be within the Colts organization, the same people you are currently railing against, have built--for both your entertainment pleasure and for your civic pride--a team that is capable of winning a Lombardi Trophy each and every season, or you can whine about losing a meaningless game in late December.

Choice is yours, Indianapolis.

NFL News and Notes - December 29, 2009

Bears quarterback Jay Cutler was going to struggle without having a big, physical target like Brandon Marshall to throw to. With Devin Hester (5-11, 180), Earl Bennett (5-11, 200) and Johnny Knox (6-0, 180) emerging as the team's top receivers, it wasn't surprising that, as far back as the summer, he was lobbying to get 6-2, 200-pound Devin Aromashodu more involved in the offense.

Though not a 6-4, 215-pound monster that Marshall is, Aromashodu is the biggest and most physical wide receiver on the Bears' roster. He has long arms, strong hands, and can make the contested catch, something that Hester, Knox, or even Bennett can't do consistently enough to help Cutler out.

It took an injury to Hester to get Aromashodu onto the field, but he's making the most of his opportunity. As a starter the last three games, the seventh-round pick (233rd overall) out of Auburn by the Miami Dolphins in 2006 has 17 receptions for 236 yards and a pair of touchdowns, including the 39-yard game-winner in overtime to beat the Minnesota Vikings on Monday Night Football.

Chicago Bears 36, Minnesota Vikings 30 (OT)

Cutler's four touchdown passes helped the Bears avoid another fourth-quarter meltdown...Bears cornerback Charles Tillman was taken to the hospital with fractured ribs.

Minnesota is stumbling into the post-season...Vikings running back Adrian Peterson took the blame for the loss.

NFL News and Notes

How much to rest his players is a decision New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick will have to make.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick may return for the season finale.

Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder will miss the remainder of the season.

The New York Jets can't blow this opportunity, writes Rich Cimini of the New York Daily News.

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis has to decide how much to rest his players next Sunday night against the Jets.

Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren hasn't made a decision on Eric Mangini.

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh needs to improve the team's discipline.

The Pittsburgh Steelers dug their own playoff hole, writes Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Houston Texans first-round linebacker Brian Cushing is everything the Texans hoped he'd be and more, writes Richard Justice of the Houston Chronicle.

Whatever remains of the Jacksonville Jaguars fanbase is frustrated.

The Tennessee Titans would like to see quarterback Vince Young bounce back in the season finale against Seattle.

Fans of the Indianapolis Colts are upset that the team pulled its starters on Sunday.

A pair of Denver Broncos were lost for the season, which faces long odds of continuing past this Sunday.

The Kansas City Chiefs will likely pick third in the 2010 NFL Draft.

San Diego Chargers running back Darren Sproles has helped keep LaDainian Tomlinson fresh.

Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable defended himself on Monday.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is powering the team's late-season surge.

New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin and quarterback Eli Manning apologized to the fans for what transpired on Sunday.

Philadelphia Eagles center Jamaal Jackson tore his ACL and will miss the remainder of the season.

The Washington Redskins complied with the Rooney Rule regarding the team's still occupied head coaching position.

Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz is not happy with the play of his quarterbacks.

Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy would not divulge details on how he'll approach Sunday's game against Arizona.

The Atlanta Falcons rookie class is getting valuable playing time down the stretch.

Carolina Panthers head coach John Fox and his staff can all return in 2010, the Charlotte Observer reports.

The New Orleans Saints aren't pushing the panic button.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris isn't paying attention to the rumors swirling about his job status.

The Arizona Cardinals still have a chance for a first-round bye.

San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Singletary was displeased that his team failed to produce points off the six turnovers the defense forced.

Questions about Seattle Seahawks head coach Jim Mora's status will linger until a new president is made, writes Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times.

St. Louis Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo would like to end the season with a win, but a loss would secure the first overall pick of the 2010 NFL Draft.

Today's NFL birthdays: Cardinals defensive tackle Alan Branch (25), Falcons running back Jason Snelling (26), Bengals wide receiver Laveranues Coles (32), Cowboys kicker Shaun Suisham (28), Texans linebacker Kevin Bentley (30), Vikings wide receiver Darius Reynaud (24), and Redskins safety Chris Horton (24)

New Orleans Clinches #1 Seed in NFC Playoffs

With the Chicago Bears' 36-30 overtime win over the Minnesota Vikings, the New Orleans Saints have now clinched the #1 seed in the NFC Playoffs.

At 11-4, the Vikings can still get a first-round bye, but will need to win and a loss by the Philadelphia Eagles to do so. The Eagles travel to the Dallas Cowboys next Sunday.

Updated NFC Playoff Picture:

1. New Orleans (13-2) - Clinched NFC South; Clinched #1 seed and home-field throughout NFC Playoffs
2. Philadelphia (11-4)- Can clinch NFC East with win over DAL; Would have conference record tiebreaker over MIN
3. Minnesota (11-4) - Clinched NFC North
4. Arizona (10-5) - Clinched NFC West
5. Green Bay (10-5) - Clinched WC spot
6. Dallas (10-5)- Clinched playoff spot; Can win NFC East with win over PHI

Holmgren Focusing on Re-structuring Browns

While Mike Holmgren hasn't ruled out coaching at some point, during his conference call with the Cleveland media on Monday, he stated that his immediate focus will be structuring the Cleveland Browns organization.

"Right now I'm putting together the structure of the organization as far as I would like to do it," Holmgren said when asked about his responsibilities. "A lot of these things can't be done until the season is over, as far as other people and contacting other positions.

My coaching, as far as coaching on the field, in the near future I'm not going to do that. Things can change, I suppose, down the road, but this year I accepted this new challenge in my career and I'm really excited about it. It's different, because I won't be on the field, but I'll be doing everything in my power to help make the head coach successful. That's how I'm looking at my current position."

Holmgren hasn't made a decision on head coach Eric Mangini ("I have not made a decision on Eric") and did state that he intends on hiring a general manager, which won't happen until after the season, at which time they'll interview minority candidates so that they're in compliance with the NFL's Rooney Rule.

In typical Holmgren fashion, he joked about the level of responsibility he has now, but in doing so, he pridefully illustrated to everyone that he is "sans layers" in his new gig.

"I think I have way too much responsibility," Holmgren said jokingly. "I am really looking forward to it. It's quite different than what I'm used to. When I went to Seattle, I went as the coach and general manager and executive vice president. I did have a president that I answered to, who was in between me and the owner. Then my duties changed there, obviously, after about four or five years. This, Randy Lerner is my boss and I answer to Randy. Then it's my job to kind of direct traffic and put the organization together after that. I have all the responsibility anyone could ask for and now I have to hire good people."

Vikings-Bears Inactives

Here are the inactives for tonight's Minnesota Vikings-Chicago Bears game.

Minnesota: QB Sage Rosenfels (3rd QB), CB Karl Paymah, WR Jaymar Johnson, TE Garrett Mills, LB J Leman, C Jon Cooper, DE Jayme Mitchell, DT Pat Williams

Chicago: P Richmond McGee, WR Devin Hester, S Kevin Payne, S Al Afalava, G Lance Louis, WR Juaquin Iglesias, DT Matt Toeania, T James Marten

Eagles C Jamaal Jackson is Heartbroken

Philadelphia Eagles center Jamaal Jackson will miss the remainder of the season after tearing the ACL in his left knee early in Sunday's 30-27 win over the Denver Broncos. In a text to The Eagletarian, Jackson is predictably devastated, but optimistic about the future.

"I'm heartbroken that I can't help my teammates win a divisional title and possibly a Super Bowl. But I thank (the fans) for all the support that they have showed me over the years, and somehow, some way I'll be back on the field in the future!"

Holmgren Will Take Time to Make Decision on Eric Mangini

Mike Holmgren won't begin his tenure as the Cleveland Browns team president until January 4, but he took part in a conference call with Cleveland-area media members on Monday.

One of the issues discussed was the future of head coach Eric Mangini, who has led the Browns to three straight wins at the end of the season.

"I have not made a decision on Eric," Holmgren said on Monday according to Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer. "I met with Eric when I was back there for my brief stay, and I've talked to him on the phone about football issues. It would be unfair (to make a decision now). He's at the end of finishing his first season, the team is doing well and responding to him. That type of decision will be made once I get back there. Eric and I will meet next week and then we'll come to sort of decision."

Holmgren has repeatedly said that, as a head coach himself, that head coaches deserve a second season. When he was positioning himself for the top job in Seattle, he had stated that he believed Seahawks head coach Jim Mora deserved two years on the job, which may be part of the reason why Mora endorsed Holmgren's candidacy for the team's president/general manager position.

Speaking of general managers, three names emerged over the weekend as potential candidates to be Holmgren's general manager in Cleveland. Randy Mueller (San Diego), John Schneider (Green Bay), and current Philadelphia Eagles general manager Tom Heckert.

Schneider and Heckert are both candidates for the Seahawks job. It's unclear whether or not Heckert would be interested in Cleveland job, as he'd be below Holmgren, which isn't much different than his current job, where head coach Eagles head coach Andy Reid has final authority on personnel issues.

Dolphins' Sparano Takes Blame for Team's Lack of Improvement

Miami Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano blames himself for his team regressing and failing to finish the season strong.

"This is my fault," Sparano said. "This is what I'm disappointed in me for. I take great pride in the fact that we work our team hard enough, and our team gets better as the season goes on. We didn't get better in that phase. We didn't get better fundamentally. We didn't tackle well enough.

"There are some things we didn't do fundamentally well [on Sunday]. I take that personally.

"After what happened out there, I hope it's not very hard to regroup and bounce back. There are a lot of very prideful players in that locker room. I really do believe that. They've been gritty and feisty the entire year.

"I know there's a great deal of pride in that locker room and they are a pretty resilient bunch...When you're feelings get hurt a little bit there's only one way to answer that. You need to bounce back, and that's what we'll do."

Sparano wasn't completely negative on Monday, offering words of encouragement for how some of his team's younger plays have improved this season.

"I see improvement in a lot of areas right now on this football team, I really do. I am pleased with what some of young guys are doing, I really am. I think some of these young players are getting better. We have to get them all to get better at the same time."

Miami needs a miracle to make the playoffs. Here's how they get in:

Beat the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, AND the Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Baltimore Ravens, and New York Jets lose next Sunday.

If all that happens, the Dolphins will face the New England Patriots in the Wild Card round of the AFC Playoffs.

Giants Issue Apology to Fans

A day after the New York Giants lost 41-9 to the Carolina Panthers in the final home game in Giants Stadium history, and were later ousted from playoff contention when their loss, several members of the Giants apologized:

"The one thing I want to say to our fans, and to a man also, is we’d like to apologize for yesterday," Giants head coach Tom Coughlin said. "For whatever reason, a team that had an awful lot to play for, that had opportunities there, that was playing Giants Stadium for the last regular season game of the Giants, didn’t play up to our capabilities. It’s a very frustrating thing."

Giants quarterback Eli Manning also was in an apologetic mood.

"I apologize. I wish I had an answer," Manning said. "I wish we would have come out and played better football. I don’t have the answer to why it happened and why it’s happened throughout the season where we’ve been up and down in our play. We have to find a way to be more consistent. The good teams in this league, they are consistent week in and week out. You might not win every game, but you’re going to be in the fight every game."

It's going to be a long off-season for the Giants, who started 5-0 before losing four straight before their bye week. They were unable to put two wins together for much of the season, and as a result, will miss out on the playoffs for the first time since 2004.

Fritz Pollard Alliance Meets With Redskins Candidates

Rick Maese of the Washington Post reports that John Wooten, the president of the Fritz Pollard Alliance, has met with Washington Redskins coaches Jerry Gray and Greg Blache to determine whether or not they're interviews with the Redskins for the soon-to-be vacant head coaching position were legitimate.

From Maese's Twitter account: "They have done what we look for in an interview; therefore, they have satisfied the Rooney Rule."

Wooten added that he does not discourage the interviewing of candidates before there's a job opening, saying that would "be stupid on my part, wouldn't it?".

The Redskins are expected to hire Mike Shanahan, perhaps as early as next Monday, after they fire Jim Zorn following the season finale.

The Fritz Pollard Alliance was formed to promote diversity and equality of job opportunity in the coaching, front office, and scouting departments in the NFL. To find out more about the FPA, check out www.FPAL.org.

ESPN: Childress Will Pull Favre if Vikings Have Big Lead

Via Judd Zulgad of the Star Tribune, ESPN is reporting that Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress says he'll pull quarterback Brett Favre if the Vikings have a big lead in tonight's game against the Chicago Bears.

It's almost enough to make me want to see the Vikings build a big lead, just to see if Favre has learned anything this last week and adheres to his coach's decision.