Tampa Bay Buccaneers restricted free agent wide receiver Maurice Stovall has been given the original round restricted free agent tender, Roy Cummings of the Tampa Tribune reports.
A third-round pick in 2006, Stovall would earn $1.176 million dollars in 2010, and if he signs an offer sheet the Buccaneers decline to match, the Bucs would receive a fourth-round pick as compensation, as they've used the "Upgraded Tender" on left tackle Donald Penn.
Stovall has started just three of his 42 games for Tampa Bay, and has 44 receptions for 579 yards and two touchdowns in his career. He does have 22 special teams tackles over the last three seasons, though.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Highest Tender for Chargers' McNeil
Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports that it looks as though the San Diego Chargers will use the highest restricted free agent tender on left tackle Marcus McNeil.
McNeil (6-7, 336) was the team's second-round pick (50th overall) out of Auburn in 2006, and he's started all 62 games he's played.
As a player with four accrued seasons, McNeil's tender is worth $3.168 million dollars and comes with the first- and third-round draft pick compensation. McNeil was named to the AFC's Pro Bowl team after the 2006 and 2007 seasons.
McNeil (6-7, 336) was the team's second-round pick (50th overall) out of Auburn in 2006, and he's started all 62 games he's played.
As a player with four accrued seasons, McNeil's tender is worth $3.168 million dollars and comes with the first- and third-round draft pick compensation. McNeil was named to the AFC's Pro Bowl team after the 2006 and 2007 seasons.
QBs Robinson, Snead Improve Their Draft Stock
With many of the marquee quarterback prospects in the 2010 NFL Draft opting to wait for their Pro Days to throw, a couple of quarterbacks, Oklahoma State's Zac Robinson and Missisippi's Jevan Snead, took advantage of Sunday's workouts to improve their draft stock.
Rob Rang of The Sports Xchange and NFLDraftScout.com took in their workouts today at Lucas Oil Stadium, and filed this report:
On Robinson: "Robinson showed good footwork and balance dropping back--a question mark considering he's coming from a spread offense--and was consistently accurate to all levels of the field. He zipped intermediate slants and dig routes and showed plenty of drive on the deep out. As a perfect example of why quarterbacks should throw at the Combine, Robinson scored points with scouts on the accuracy of his deep ball (good trajectory, outside shade) despite none of his deep passes actually being caught by his receivers."
Rang thinks Robinson (6025, 214, 4.71-40, third among QBs) "will be rising up draft boards" after his performance on Sunday. He came from a spread offense in college, which can be a concern for quarterbacks as they enter the NFL. Robinson, however, appears to have realized this, and prepared accordingly.
"I've always enjoyed being under center," Snead said on Friday. "I was under center maybe 25 percent of the time (at Oklahoma State), but every time we were under there, I felt comfortable. We did a lot of play action there, just wasn't a whole lot of five-step, seven-step.
"But I would work on my own after practice even though we weren't...it wasn't in the game-plan. I kind of did that just to get ready for this. It was a little bit of an adjustment, but I enjoyed learning the Dolphins scheme (at the Senior Bowl) and I think overall it was a good week."
On the 6-3, 219-pound Snead, Rang said: "Snead was as accurate on this day as I've ever seen him -- hitting receivers in stride consistently and showing off his good arm strength. The problem with Snead is that he knows he has a good arm and he relies on it. He carries the ball a bit low and has a very quick release, but he rarely stepped into his throws today, relying almost exclusively on his arm. Snead has intriguing tools -- and he clearly helped his cause today by showing them -- but quarterback coaches I've spoken with in the past have pointed this out as an issue."
Rob Rang of The Sports Xchange and NFLDraftScout.com took in their workouts today at Lucas Oil Stadium, and filed this report:
On Robinson: "Robinson showed good footwork and balance dropping back--a question mark considering he's coming from a spread offense--and was consistently accurate to all levels of the field. He zipped intermediate slants and dig routes and showed plenty of drive on the deep out. As a perfect example of why quarterbacks should throw at the Combine, Robinson scored points with scouts on the accuracy of his deep ball (good trajectory, outside shade) despite none of his deep passes actually being caught by his receivers."
Rang thinks Robinson (6025, 214, 4.71-40, third among QBs) "will be rising up draft boards" after his performance on Sunday. He came from a spread offense in college, which can be a concern for quarterbacks as they enter the NFL. Robinson, however, appears to have realized this, and prepared accordingly.
"I've always enjoyed being under center," Snead said on Friday. "I was under center maybe 25 percent of the time (at Oklahoma State), but every time we were under there, I felt comfortable. We did a lot of play action there, just wasn't a whole lot of five-step, seven-step.
"But I would work on my own after practice even though we weren't...it wasn't in the game-plan. I kind of did that just to get ready for this. It was a little bit of an adjustment, but I enjoyed learning the Dolphins scheme (at the Senior Bowl) and I think overall it was a good week."
On the 6-3, 219-pound Snead, Rang said: "Snead was as accurate on this day as I've ever seen him -- hitting receivers in stride consistently and showing off his good arm strength. The problem with Snead is that he knows he has a good arm and he relies on it. He carries the ball a bit low and has a very quick release, but he rarely stepped into his throws today, relying almost exclusively on his arm. Snead has intriguing tools -- and he clearly helped his cause today by showing them -- but quarterback coaches I've spoken with in the past have pointed this out as an issue."
Top 10 RB 40 Times at 2010 NFL Scouting Combine
Below are the Top 10, official times in the 40-yard dash among running backs at the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine:
1. Jahvid Best, Cal (5-10, 199): 4.35
2. C.J. Spiller, Clemson (5-11, 196): 4.37
3. Ben Tate, Auburn (5-10, 220): 4.43
4. Ryan Mathews, Fresno State (5-11, 218): 4.45
5. Joe McKnight, USC (5-11, 198): 4.47
6. Montario Hardesty, Tennessee (5-11, 225): 4.49
7. James Starks, University of Buffalo (6-2, 218): 4.50
8. Lonyae Miller, Fresno St (5-11, 221): 4.53
9. Shawnbrey McNeal, SMU (5-9, 194)
10. Dexter McCluster, Mississippi (5-9, 172): 4.58
1. Jahvid Best, Cal (5-10, 199): 4.35
2. C.J. Spiller, Clemson (5-11, 196): 4.37
3. Ben Tate, Auburn (5-10, 220): 4.43
4. Ryan Mathews, Fresno State (5-11, 218): 4.45
5. Joe McKnight, USC (5-11, 198): 4.47
6. Montario Hardesty, Tennessee (5-11, 225): 4.49
7. James Starks, University of Buffalo (6-2, 218): 4.50
8. Lonyae Miller, Fresno St (5-11, 221): 4.53
9. Shawnbrey McNeal, SMU (5-9, 194)
10. Dexter McCluster, Mississippi (5-9, 172): 4.58
Cardinals to Release S Antrel Rolle
The Arizona Cardinals want to keep safety Antrel Rolle, but they will release him first, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Rolle (6-0, 208) earned Pro Bowl honors for the first time after posting 72 tackles, 1.5 quarterback sacks and 4 interceptions from his free safety position in 2009. Playing both cornerback and safety, Rolle has started 59 of his 68 games with the Cardinals, totaling 335 tackles, 34 pass break-ups, and 12 interceptions, four of which he's returned for touchdowns, in his career.
Chosen with the eighth overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft, Rolle is signed for the 2010 season, but has an $8.11 million dollar base salary, as well as a $4M roster bonus, which the Cardinals are unlikely to pay him for one season of work.
The Homestead, Florida native is expected to draw interest from the Miami Dolphins and Chicago Bears if he hits the free agent market, so there is an element of risk on the Cardinals' part. However, $12.11 million dollars in total compensation would not have been a prudent financial decision by the Cardinals, who took safety Rashad Johnson in the third-round of last year's draft, presumably as a safeguard should they release Rolle this off-season.
Rolle (6-0, 208) earned Pro Bowl honors for the first time after posting 72 tackles, 1.5 quarterback sacks and 4 interceptions from his free safety position in 2009. Playing both cornerback and safety, Rolle has started 59 of his 68 games with the Cardinals, totaling 335 tackles, 34 pass break-ups, and 12 interceptions, four of which he's returned for touchdowns, in his career.
Chosen with the eighth overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft, Rolle is signed for the 2010 season, but has an $8.11 million dollar base salary, as well as a $4M roster bonus, which the Cardinals are unlikely to pay him for one season of work.
The Homestead, Florida native is expected to draw interest from the Miami Dolphins and Chicago Bears if he hits the free agent market, so there is an element of risk on the Cardinals' part. However, $12.11 million dollars in total compensation would not have been a prudent financial decision by the Cardinals, who took safety Rashad Johnson in the third-round of last year's draft, presumably as a safeguard should they release Rolle this off-season.
Chargers' Merriman to Receive 1st and 3rd Round Tender
Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports that the San Diego Chargers will place the highest restricted free agent tender on outside linebacker Shawne Merriman.
Knee injuries have limited Merriman to just 15 games over the last two seasons, but the 6-4, 265-pound linebacker has 225 tackles, 43.5 quarterback sacks and three Pro Bowls (2005-07) since being chosen in the first round (12th overall) of the 2005 NFL Draft. Merriman was also named the AP's Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2005, and followed that up with a 17-sack performance in 2006, despite being suspended for four games after violating the NFL's steroid policy.
Last season, Merriman earned $2.792 million dollars. 110% of that salary is $3,269,200, which is $1,200 more than the $3.268M amount the 1st and 3rd round RFA tender for a player with five (5) accrued seasons is worth.
If another club signs Merriman to an offer sheet, which the Chargers decline to match, they'll be required to compensate the Chargers with a first- and third-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
Knee injuries have limited Merriman to just 15 games over the last two seasons, but the 6-4, 265-pound linebacker has 225 tackles, 43.5 quarterback sacks and three Pro Bowls (2005-07) since being chosen in the first round (12th overall) of the 2005 NFL Draft. Merriman was also named the AP's Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2005, and followed that up with a 17-sack performance in 2006, despite being suspended for four games after violating the NFL's steroid policy.
Last season, Merriman earned $2.792 million dollars. 110% of that salary is $3,269,200, which is $1,200 more than the $3.268M amount the 1st and 3rd round RFA tender for a player with five (5) accrued seasons is worth.
If another club signs Merriman to an offer sheet, which the Chargers decline to match, they'll be required to compensate the Chargers with a first- and third-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
Clemson's Ford Posts Top 40 Time Among WRs
Clemson's Jacoby Ford was the only wide receiver to crack the 4.4 barrier today, posting an official time of 4.28 in the 40-yard dash.
The rest of the Top 10 official times among wide receivers:
2. Taylor Price, Ohio: 4.41
3. Emmanuel Sanders, SMU: 4.41
4. Golden Tate, Notre Dame: 4.42
5. Kyle Williams, Arizona State: 4.43
6. Brandon Banks, Kansas State: 4.43
7. Marcus Easley, UCONN: 4.46
8. Scott Long, Louisville: 4.46
9. Andre Roberts, The Citadel: 4.46
10. Carlton Mitchell, South Florida: 4.49
The rest of the Top 10 official times among wide receivers:
2. Taylor Price, Ohio: 4.41
3. Emmanuel Sanders, SMU: 4.41
4. Golden Tate, Notre Dame: 4.42
5. Kyle Williams, Arizona State: 4.43
6. Brandon Banks, Kansas State: 4.43
7. Marcus Easley, UCONN: 4.46
8. Scott Long, Louisville: 4.46
9. Andre Roberts, The Citadel: 4.46
10. Carlton Mitchell, South Florida: 4.49
PFT: NFL Tries to the Buy the UFL
Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports that the National Football League may have tried to purchase the United Football League:
"The specific rumor is that the NFL offered within the past few days payment of $50 million for 51 percent of the one-year-old minor league. The second part of the rumor is that the UFL responded by offering 49 percent for $49 million."
For more on the rumor, including how any purchase would affect the league's anti-trust exemption, click the link above.
Personally, I'd be more interested in seeing the NFL use that money to reestablish NFL Europe, or invest in some other developmental league for the Spring.
"The specific rumor is that the NFL offered within the past few days payment of $50 million for 51 percent of the one-year-old minor league. The second part of the rumor is that the UFL responded by offering 49 percent for $49 million."
For more on the rumor, including how any purchase would affect the league's anti-trust exemption, click the link above.
Personally, I'd be more interested in seeing the NFL use that money to reestablish NFL Europe, or invest in some other developmental league for the Spring.
Vikings Sign WR Greg Lewis to One-Year Deal
The Minnesota Vikings and veteran wide receiver Greg Lewis have agreed to terms on a one-year deal, Judd Zulgad of the Star Tribune reports.
Lewis, who turned 30 earlier this month, caught 8 passes for 96 yards and 32-yard touchdown with no time remaining on the clock in the Vikings' 27-24 win over the San Francisco 49ers in Week 3.
An undrafted free agent out of Illinois who has spent most of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, Lewis has 135 receptions for 1,795 yards and 8 touchdowns in his 7-year career. Lewis was traded by the Eagles to the New England Patriots last March, but was released by the Patriots during their final cuts on September 5.
Lewis was set to be an unrestricted free agent on Friday.
Lewis, who turned 30 earlier this month, caught 8 passes for 96 yards and 32-yard touchdown with no time remaining on the clock in the Vikings' 27-24 win over the San Francisco 49ers in Week 3.
An undrafted free agent out of Illinois who has spent most of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, Lewis has 135 receptions for 1,795 yards and 8 touchdowns in his 7-year career. Lewis was traded by the Eagles to the New England Patriots last March, but was released by the Patriots during their final cuts on September 5.
Lewis was set to be an unrestricted free agent on Friday.
Highest RFA Tender Coming for Chargers' Jackson, Floyd
Between the release of running back LaDainian Tomlinson and running back Darren Sproles hitting the free agent market next Friday, the San Diego Chargers can ill-afford to lose any more offensive play-makers this off-season.
That's why the Chargers are expected to place the high restricted free agent tenders on wide receivers Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd, reports Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, meaning that the Chargers would receive a 1st and 3rd round pick if they decline to match an offer sheet Jackson and/or Floyd signs with another club.
Jackson (6-5, 241) and Floyd (6-5, 225) finished second and third on the Chargers in receptions, with Jackson leading the Chargers with 1,167 yards and 9 touchdowns. Combined, the starting wideouts caught 113 passes for 1,943 yards and 10 touchdowns. Because of their size and production, both players were expected to draw interest on the restricted free agent market, with Floyd being a more likely target as he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Wyoming in 2004.
By placing these "Upgraded Tenders" on both receivers--Jackson was a second-round pick in 2005--the Chargers have likely assured that neither player will be going anywhere this off-season.
With four accrued seasons in the NFL, Floyd's tender would be worth $3.168 million dollars. With an additional accrued season, Jackson's is worth $3.268 million dollars in 2010.
The Chargers have also placed the "Original Round" tender on defensive lineman Travis Johnson, who was a first-round pick (16th overall) by the Houston Texans in 2005.
That's why the Chargers are expected to place the high restricted free agent tenders on wide receivers Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd, reports Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, meaning that the Chargers would receive a 1st and 3rd round pick if they decline to match an offer sheet Jackson and/or Floyd signs with another club.
Jackson (6-5, 241) and Floyd (6-5, 225) finished second and third on the Chargers in receptions, with Jackson leading the Chargers with 1,167 yards and 9 touchdowns. Combined, the starting wideouts caught 113 passes for 1,943 yards and 10 touchdowns. Because of their size and production, both players were expected to draw interest on the restricted free agent market, with Floyd being a more likely target as he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Wyoming in 2004.
By placing these "Upgraded Tenders" on both receivers--Jackson was a second-round pick in 2005--the Chargers have likely assured that neither player will be going anywhere this off-season.
With four accrued seasons in the NFL, Floyd's tender would be worth $3.168 million dollars. With an additional accrued season, Jackson's is worth $3.268 million dollars in 2010.
The Chargers have also placed the "Original Round" tender on defensive lineman Travis Johnson, who was a first-round pick (16th overall) by the Houston Texans in 2005.
Improving Offensive Line A Priority for the Raiders
The Oakland Raiders offensive line could look completely different in 2010, writes Jerry McDonald of the Bay Area News Group.
"You keep (left guard Robert) Gallery and hope he stays healthy. Every other position ought to be looked at. Draft analyst Mike Mayock thinks the Raiders at No. 8 will come away with one of the four top tackles in the draft _ Oklahoma’s Russell Okung, Oklahoma State’s Trent Williams, Rutgers’ Anthony Davis and Iowa’s Bryan Bulaga."
After yesterday's workout, Maryland offensive tackle Bruce Campbell has to be considered an option for the Raiders with that 8th pick.
Don't forget, they're the same team that took Maryland wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey with the 7th pick primarily because of his workout/potential combination, and the Raiders personnel department has not changed in the last year.
"You keep (left guard Robert) Gallery and hope he stays healthy. Every other position ought to be looked at. Draft analyst Mike Mayock thinks the Raiders at No. 8 will come away with one of the four top tackles in the draft _ Oklahoma’s Russell Okung, Oklahoma State’s Trent Williams, Rutgers’ Anthony Davis and Iowa’s Bryan Bulaga."
After yesterday's workout, Maryland offensive tackle Bruce Campbell has to be considered an option for the Raiders with that 8th pick.
Don't forget, they're the same team that took Maryland wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey with the 7th pick primarily because of his workout/potential combination, and the Raiders personnel department has not changed in the last year.
Eagles Talking Extension With Weaver, May Pay Vick's Bonus
Geoff Mosher of The News Journal reports that in addition to talking contract extension with Pro Bowl fullback Leonard Weaver, the Philadelphia Eagles are considering paying Michael Vick his $1.5 million roster bonus on March 5.
"Multiple league sources have told me that they anticipate the Eagles paying Vick’s 1.5 roster bonus and holding onto Vick for as long as possible to get the best available offer. Shelling out $1.5 million is hardly unreasonable if the team gets a third-or fourth-round pick in return."
The problem is that if they can't unload Vick, that $1.5 million dollars turns into a minimum of $2.5 million dollars ($1M of his $3.75M salary becomes guaranteed once the '10 option is picked up), and could swell to $5.25 million dollars if he's with the team for the entire season.
That's an awful lot of money to pay your #3 quarterback.
Regarding Weaver, Mosher caught up with his agent, Harold Lewis, at the Indiana Pacers' game on Saturday.
““Hopefully, we can get something done that works for everybody,” Lewis told Mosher, confirming that talks on a contract extension have occurred and will continue.
Weaver has gone from an undrafted tight end out of Division II Carson-Newman to a Pro Bowl-caliber fullback, setting a career-high last year in rushing yards (323) and touchdowns (2) in his first season with the Eagles, who signed him to a one-year, $1.75 million deal.
An unrestricted free agent in an uncapped year, Weaver spent the first four years of his NFL career with the Seattle Seahawks, who opted not to re-sign him to long-term deal following the 2008 season.
For his career, Weaver has 679 yards rushing on 150 carries, and 75 receptions for 687 yards and four touchdowns.
"Multiple league sources have told me that they anticipate the Eagles paying Vick’s 1.5 roster bonus and holding onto Vick for as long as possible to get the best available offer. Shelling out $1.5 million is hardly unreasonable if the team gets a third-or fourth-round pick in return."
The problem is that if they can't unload Vick, that $1.5 million dollars turns into a minimum of $2.5 million dollars ($1M of his $3.75M salary becomes guaranteed once the '10 option is picked up), and could swell to $5.25 million dollars if he's with the team for the entire season.
That's an awful lot of money to pay your #3 quarterback.
Regarding Weaver, Mosher caught up with his agent, Harold Lewis, at the Indiana Pacers' game on Saturday.
““Hopefully, we can get something done that works for everybody,” Lewis told Mosher, confirming that talks on a contract extension have occurred and will continue.
Weaver has gone from an undrafted tight end out of Division II Carson-Newman to a Pro Bowl-caliber fullback, setting a career-high last year in rushing yards (323) and touchdowns (2) in his first season with the Eagles, who signed him to a one-year, $1.75 million deal.
An unrestricted free agent in an uncapped year, Weaver spent the first four years of his NFL career with the Seattle Seahawks, who opted not to re-sign him to long-term deal following the 2008 season.
For his career, Weaver has 679 yards rushing on 150 carries, and 75 receptions for 687 yards and four touchdowns.
Jets Expected to Release RB Thomas Jones This Week
New York Jets 31-year old running back Thomas Jones had a career year in 2009, but with him due a $3 million dollar roster bonus due on March 9, and a $2.8 million dollar base salary in 2010, along with running back Shonn Greene coming off a strong finish to his rookie season, Jones' time with the club will come to an end later this week.
"He’s a great player,’’ Jets coach Rex Ryan said of Jones on Saturday at the NFL Scouting Combine. "There are tough decisions that our organization is going to be faced with. So we have some time but clearly Thomas is an outstanding player."
Acquired from the Chicago Bears in 2007 for a second-round draft choice, Jones signed a four-year, $20 million dollar contract, of which $12 million was guaranteed. Jones has $5.9 million dollars remaining on that deal, but he is unwilling to restructure his contract, which will prompt the club to release him.
In three seasons for Gang Green, Jones has 3,833 yards and 28 touchdowns rushing, and has caught 74 passes for 482 yards and three touchdowns as a receiver. He's finished in the Top 5 in the NFL in rushing the last two seasons, and was named to the AFC's Pro Bowl team in 2008.
A first-round pick (7th overall) by the Arizona Cardinals in 2000, Jones has quietly amassed 9,217 yards and 62 touchdowns on the ground, and has 289 career receptions for 1,858 yards.
Jones has topped 1,000 yards rushing in five consecutive seasons.
"He’s a great player,’’ Jets coach Rex Ryan said of Jones on Saturday at the NFL Scouting Combine. "There are tough decisions that our organization is going to be faced with. So we have some time but clearly Thomas is an outstanding player."
Acquired from the Chicago Bears in 2007 for a second-round draft choice, Jones signed a four-year, $20 million dollar contract, of which $12 million was guaranteed. Jones has $5.9 million dollars remaining on that deal, but he is unwilling to restructure his contract, which will prompt the club to release him.
In three seasons for Gang Green, Jones has 3,833 yards and 28 touchdowns rushing, and has caught 74 passes for 482 yards and three touchdowns as a receiver. He's finished in the Top 5 in the NFL in rushing the last two seasons, and was named to the AFC's Pro Bowl team in 2008.
A first-round pick (7th overall) by the Arizona Cardinals in 2000, Jones has quietly amassed 9,217 yards and 62 touchdowns on the ground, and has 289 career receptions for 1,858 yards.
Jones has topped 1,000 yards rushing in five consecutive seasons.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Bills' Denney, Reed, and Owens to Hit Free Agency
The Buffalo Bills have informed defensive end Ryan Denney, and veteran wide receivers Josh Reed and Terrell Owens, that they will not be offered contracts prior to March 5, making them unrestricted free agents, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
"I would like to thank the great fans in Buffalo,Ralph Wilson & the Bills organization for all their support this past season," Owens posted on his Twitter page on Saturday night.
Owens, 36, led the Bills with 55 receptions for 829 receiving yards, adding five touchdowns during his one season in Buffalo.
Reed and Denney were second-round picks by the Bills in 2002.
Reed, the 36th overall pick that year out of LSU, started 52 of his 115 games with the Bills, catching 311 passes for 3,575 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Denney, chosen with the 61st pick in 2002, appeared in 111 games during his 8 seasons in Buffalo, making 31 starts. The 6-7, 264-pounder from Brigham Young totaled 297 tackles and 23.5 quarterback sacks and caught a pair of touchdown passes on fake field goal attempts in the last two seasons.
"I would like to thank the great fans in Buffalo,Ralph Wilson & the Bills organization for all their support this past season," Owens posted on his Twitter page on Saturday night.
Owens, 36, led the Bills with 55 receptions for 829 receiving yards, adding five touchdowns during his one season in Buffalo.
Reed and Denney were second-round picks by the Bills in 2002.
Reed, the 36th overall pick that year out of LSU, started 52 of his 115 games with the Bills, catching 311 passes for 3,575 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Denney, chosen with the 61st pick in 2002, appeared in 111 games during his 8 seasons in Buffalo, making 31 starts. The 6-7, 264-pounder from Brigham Young totaled 297 tackles and 23.5 quarterback sacks and caught a pair of touchdown passes on fake field goal attempts in the last two seasons.
Rams to Meet With Bradford Tonight
Howard Balzer of the St. Louis Globe-Democrat reports that Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford will meet with the St. Louis Rams tonight.
"Rams will meet with Sam Bradford tonight. Bradford came off poised and personable with the media today. He has 'it'", Balzer posted to Twitter.
The Rams hold the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, and are believed to have narrowed their decision down to Bradford, Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen, and the draft's top two defensive tackles, Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh and Oklahoma's Gerald McCoy.
"I really don't think that needs to be out there," Bradford said earlier today when asked which teams he's talked to. The 6-4, 236-pound passer confessed to wanting to be the first overall pick.
"I think everybody dreams about being No. 1," he said. "Through this process, I'm preparing myself. I'm gonna show those teams everything I have. But at the end of the day, it's up to them. So I'm really not worried about what I can't control."
Clausen has yet to meet with the Rams, though that's surely to happen before this weekend comes to a close.
"Rams will meet with Sam Bradford tonight. Bradford came off poised and personable with the media today. He has 'it'", Balzer posted to Twitter.
The Rams hold the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, and are believed to have narrowed their decision down to Bradford, Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen, and the draft's top two defensive tackles, Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh and Oklahoma's Gerald McCoy.
"I really don't think that needs to be out there," Bradford said earlier today when asked which teams he's talked to. The 6-4, 236-pound passer confessed to wanting to be the first overall pick.
"I think everybody dreams about being No. 1," he said. "Through this process, I'm preparing myself. I'm gonna show those teams everything I have. But at the end of the day, it's up to them. So I'm really not worried about what I can't control."
Clausen has yet to meet with the Rams, though that's surely to happen before this weekend comes to a close.
NFL Competition Committee To Consider Modifying OT Rules
Sports Illustrated's Peter King reports the NFL's Competition Committee will considering revising the league's "sudden death" rule during the league's meetings in late March.
"Here's a stunner: NFL Competition Committee will consider a "modified sudden death'' rule at NFL Meetings in late March", King posted to his Twitter page.
Rich Eisen of the NFL Network thinks the rule change could be a "first one to six points, wins".
King counters that the proposal is expected to be a "first one to seven points", meaning that one field goal in overtime won't be enough to win the game, and that a touchdown won't necessarily win the game, either. (But really, how often are extra points missed or blocked?)
Those concepts are an improvement, but until each team is guaranteed one possession in overtime, no modifications to the rule will go far enough to appease the fans or media who don't like the current format.
"Here's a stunner: NFL Competition Committee will consider a "modified sudden death'' rule at NFL Meetings in late March", King posted to his Twitter page.
Rich Eisen of the NFL Network thinks the rule change could be a "first one to six points, wins".
King counters that the proposal is expected to be a "first one to seven points", meaning that one field goal in overtime won't be enough to win the game, and that a touchdown won't necessarily win the game, either. (But really, how often are extra points missed or blocked?)
Those concepts are an improvement, but until each team is guaranteed one possession in overtime, no modifications to the rule will go far enough to appease the fans or media who don't like the current format.
Cardinals GM Rod Graves Tampers, Too
Fresh off wondering if Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren violated the NFL's Anti-Tampering Policy by discussing Julius Peppers on Friday, Arizona Cardinals general manager Rod Graves gave Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com something to talk about on Saturday.
Here's what Holmgren said about Peppers on Friday that brought about the tampering accusation:
"When we talk about possible free agents, certainly Julius is one of the guys we talk about. Then I have to put on my other hat because there are some financial ramifications there. As great a player as Julius is, I'd be reluctant to compare anybody to Reggie White."
During Graves' session with the media at the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine, the discussion turned to the Cardinals' need to find a backup quarterback to Matt Leinart, who is now the starter after Kurt Warner's retirement. Here's what Graves said today:
Q: But what about Chad Pennington? You'd sign him right away, right?
Graves: "We will take a look at all of the players, and Chad will be among those if in fact he is a free agent. We will see what the situation presents but we will take a look at anyone who is an unrestricted free agent."
As Florio pointed out on Friday, "Any public or private statement of interest, qualified or unqualified, in another club's player to that player's agent or representative, or to a member of the news media, is a violation of this Anti-Tampering Policy."
Until March 5, the Miami Dolphins have exclusive negotiating rights with Pennington, so by the letter of the rule, Graves tampered with Pennington.
Of course, the Dolphins would have to be compelled to file those charges with the league, which is unlikely to happen. Though perhaps Dolphins' general manager Jeff Ireland could be compelled to overlook Graves' egregious transgression if the Cardinals were willing to accept, say, a fourth-round pick in exchange for any veteran wide receivers from the Miami area that Arizona is willing to part with?
Here's what Holmgren said about Peppers on Friday that brought about the tampering accusation:
"When we talk about possible free agents, certainly Julius is one of the guys we talk about. Then I have to put on my other hat because there are some financial ramifications there. As great a player as Julius is, I'd be reluctant to compare anybody to Reggie White."
During Graves' session with the media at the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine, the discussion turned to the Cardinals' need to find a backup quarterback to Matt Leinart, who is now the starter after Kurt Warner's retirement. Here's what Graves said today:
Q: But what about Chad Pennington? You'd sign him right away, right?
Graves: "We will take a look at all of the players, and Chad will be among those if in fact he is a free agent. We will see what the situation presents but we will take a look at anyone who is an unrestricted free agent."
As Florio pointed out on Friday, "Any public or private statement of interest, qualified or unqualified, in another club's player to that player's agent or representative, or to a member of the news media, is a violation of this Anti-Tampering Policy."
Until March 5, the Miami Dolphins have exclusive negotiating rights with Pennington, so by the letter of the rule, Graves tampered with Pennington.
Of course, the Dolphins would have to be compelled to file those charges with the league, which is unlikely to happen. Though perhaps Dolphins' general manager Jeff Ireland could be compelled to overlook Graves' egregious transgression if the Cardinals were willing to accept, say, a fourth-round pick in exchange for any veteran wide receivers from the Miami area that Arizona is willing to part with?
Cincinnati WR Gilyard Discusses His Maturation Process
University of Cincinnati wide receiver Mardy Gilyard discussed how being ruled academically ineligible in 2006, and losing his scholarship, helped him mature.
“It took me from a kid that felt like he was full--from a kid that felt like I was everything and anything to football in Cincinnati--to someone that didn’t have anything at all," Gilyard said. "I was homeless in the city. I lost my scholarship. I got evicted from my house. With that all in mind, I had to find faith and myself. I had to grow up. I was a real knucklehead kid. Arrogant, cocky, immature. I had to grow up, so that helped me out a lot. I wouldn’t change it for nothing."
Where did Gilyard live when he was homeless?
“Out of my car...That was the easiest rent I had to pay", Gilyard said, adding that he worked four jobs during those six-plus months. "I was a cook at an Italian restaurant, I sold kitchen cutlery, I was a delivery driver for pizza and worked construction."
Gilyard began his college career as a cornerback, but when he returned to the school in 2007, he played wide receiver and returned kicks. Gilyard caught 204 passes for 3,003 yards and 25 touchdowns for the Bearcats, while averaging 28.6 yards on 93 career kick returns, four of which he returned for touchdowns, and 12.6 yards on 16 punt returns as a senior, returning one for a touchdown.
"(Returning kicks) shows that I’m versatile, and I’m not just a receiver that catches balls," Gilyard said. "I can also play outside. I can play in the slot and back slot. Just to add that element of kick return and punt return and knowing that I’m dangerous at both of them too. Adds an extra plus to the game."
Gilyard has met with the St. Louis Rams this week, and hopes to run in the low 4.55s in the 40 on Sunday. He measured in at 6-0 and 187 pounds, and the only thing he won't do at the Combine this weekend is the bench press, which he'll do on his Pro Day.
“It took me from a kid that felt like he was full--from a kid that felt like I was everything and anything to football in Cincinnati--to someone that didn’t have anything at all," Gilyard said. "I was homeless in the city. I lost my scholarship. I got evicted from my house. With that all in mind, I had to find faith and myself. I had to grow up. I was a real knucklehead kid. Arrogant, cocky, immature. I had to grow up, so that helped me out a lot. I wouldn’t change it for nothing."
Where did Gilyard live when he was homeless?
“Out of my car...That was the easiest rent I had to pay", Gilyard said, adding that he worked four jobs during those six-plus months. "I was a cook at an Italian restaurant, I sold kitchen cutlery, I was a delivery driver for pizza and worked construction."
Gilyard began his college career as a cornerback, but when he returned to the school in 2007, he played wide receiver and returned kicks. Gilyard caught 204 passes for 3,003 yards and 25 touchdowns for the Bearcats, while averaging 28.6 yards on 93 career kick returns, four of which he returned for touchdowns, and 12.6 yards on 16 punt returns as a senior, returning one for a touchdown.
"(Returning kicks) shows that I’m versatile, and I’m not just a receiver that catches balls," Gilyard said. "I can also play outside. I can play in the slot and back slot. Just to add that element of kick return and punt return and knowing that I’m dangerous at both of them too. Adds an extra plus to the game."
Gilyard has met with the St. Louis Rams this week, and hopes to run in the low 4.55s in the 40 on Sunday. He measured in at 6-0 and 187 pounds, and the only thing he won't do at the Combine this weekend is the bench press, which he'll do on his Pro Day.
Jets LB Vernon Gholston Facing Make or Break Season
New York Jets linebacker Vernon Gholston earned himself a lot of money with an incredible performance at the 2008 NFL Scouting Combine. Two years and 29 games later, the 6-3, 264-pounder from Ohio State has just made just 3 NFL starts, totaling 30 total tackles (including special teams) and 0 quarterback sacks.
"That’s still a work in progress but I will say this. When we are going back and looking at our cut ups and things like that, I think this young man deserves a better chance than we are giving him," Ryan said from the Combine on Saturday. "We need to give him more playing time. When Calvin Pace was out for the first four games, we were 3-1 and I thought Vernon played pretty well and we have to get him in the rotation playing more in our nickel packages and things like that"
Jets head coach Rex Ryan agreed with the assessment that 2010 will be a "make or break" year for Gholston.
"I think that is an accurate statement," Ryan said. "Generally by the third year, you got to see a guy really making strides, and I expect Vernon to really make strides this year."
Other Ryan tidbits, who kicked off his presser by apologizing for the whole hockey jersey incident (video below):
"The problem that happened with that wardrobe. I was at the hockey game-and first off all I would like to say USA, let’s go take care of business, really proud of the way they are playing – but what happened,I thought I had the fighting strap attached to the t-shirt. Apparently I didn’t. Big mistake.
"But I appreciate everybody having such a special interest in that."
(On quarterback Mark Sanchez) "I will tell you, if he can just play like he did the last several weeks of the season, the last probably seven, eight weeks of the season, we will take that because that was winning football. I don’t know what our record was over that, I think 8-2, something like that, probably not that good. But he understood what we needed and that was the thing we were really excited about. Will it go exactly like our plan? We will still have a belief in the ground-and-pound system. But we may throw the ball a little more than we did last year. I think we had over 700 rushing attempts last year."
(Any second thoughts on playing Sanchez as a rookie) "No. No thoughts to that at all. I think he is going to be a tremendous player for us. When he was in there, I thought he gave us the best opportunity to win. And I know people thought I was crazy when we lost six out of seven, my wife probably leading that bandwagon. It was one of those things that you knew it was just a matter of time. He has all the physical tools to be a great quarterback. The thing I am really proud of with Mark right now, he is sitting in with our offensive coaches going over all the cut ups and everything right now. He can’t work out with his rehabbing from his knee operation and things like that but he is in there and trying to find a way to get better. This really is his offense. He is trying to learn the defenses, the communication, whatever it is. I really think he is going to have a huge year for us this year."
(On acquiring Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha) "Ah, there we go. You are trying to get me. I get myself in enough trouble, alright?", Ryan joked. "So I really don’t need your help to get me in trouble. I think I will pass on talking about any player that is under contract."
"That’s still a work in progress but I will say this. When we are going back and looking at our cut ups and things like that, I think this young man deserves a better chance than we are giving him," Ryan said from the Combine on Saturday. "We need to give him more playing time. When Calvin Pace was out for the first four games, we were 3-1 and I thought Vernon played pretty well and we have to get him in the rotation playing more in our nickel packages and things like that"
Jets head coach Rex Ryan agreed with the assessment that 2010 will be a "make or break" year for Gholston.
"I think that is an accurate statement," Ryan said. "Generally by the third year, you got to see a guy really making strides, and I expect Vernon to really make strides this year."
Other Ryan tidbits, who kicked off his presser by apologizing for the whole hockey jersey incident (video below):
"The problem that happened with that wardrobe. I was at the hockey game-and first off all I would like to say USA, let’s go take care of business, really proud of the way they are playing – but what happened,I thought I had the fighting strap attached to the t-shirt. Apparently I didn’t. Big mistake.
"But I appreciate everybody having such a special interest in that."
(On quarterback Mark Sanchez) "I will tell you, if he can just play like he did the last several weeks of the season, the last probably seven, eight weeks of the season, we will take that because that was winning football. I don’t know what our record was over that, I think 8-2, something like that, probably not that good. But he understood what we needed and that was the thing we were really excited about. Will it go exactly like our plan? We will still have a belief in the ground-and-pound system. But we may throw the ball a little more than we did last year. I think we had over 700 rushing attempts last year."
(Any second thoughts on playing Sanchez as a rookie) "No. No thoughts to that at all. I think he is going to be a tremendous player for us. When he was in there, I thought he gave us the best opportunity to win. And I know people thought I was crazy when we lost six out of seven, my wife probably leading that bandwagon. It was one of those things that you knew it was just a matter of time. He has all the physical tools to be a great quarterback. The thing I am really proud of with Mark right now, he is sitting in with our offensive coaches going over all the cut ups and everything right now. He can’t work out with his rehabbing from his knee operation and things like that but he is in there and trying to find a way to get better. This really is his offense. He is trying to learn the defenses, the communication, whatever it is. I really think he is going to have a huge year for us this year."
(On acquiring Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha) "Ah, there we go. You are trying to get me. I get myself in enough trouble, alright?", Ryan joked. "So I really don’t need your help to get me in trouble. I think I will pass on talking about any player that is under contract."
Cardinals Open to Trading Boldin
Arizona Cardinals general manager Rod Graves announced today that wide receiver Anquan Boldin can be had in a trade.
"We're receptive to taking any calls," Graves said, according to Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald. "I don't want to get into specifics but we're going to look at all the possibilities."
Boldin turns 30 in October, and has one year and $3 million dollars remaining on his current contract. Any team who acquires Boldin will also have to meet his contract demands, which could include paying him $7-10 million dollars per season.
In 7 seasons with the Cardinals, the former second-round pick (54th overall) in 2003 has 586 receptions for 7,520 yards and 44 touchdowns, and earned Pro Bowl honors following the 2003, 2006, and 2008 seasons.
"We're receptive to taking any calls," Graves said, according to Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald. "I don't want to get into specifics but we're going to look at all the possibilities."
Boldin turns 30 in October, and has one year and $3 million dollars remaining on his current contract. Any team who acquires Boldin will also have to meet his contract demands, which could include paying him $7-10 million dollars per season.
In 7 seasons with the Cardinals, the former second-round pick (54th overall) in 2003 has 586 receptions for 7,520 yards and 44 touchdowns, and earned Pro Bowl honors following the 2003, 2006, and 2008 seasons.
Clausen Meets with Redskins, Bills
Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune/National Football Post reports that Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen met with the Washington Redskins and Buffalo Bills on Friday night.
The Redskins are expected to place a restricted free agent tender on quarterback Jason Campbell, but are believed to be interested in using their top pick (4th overall) on Clausen or Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford.
Buffalo Bills general manager Buddy Nix would prefer to use their top pick (9th overall) on an offensive tackle, a major weakness on the Bills' roster that was exasperated with the sudden retirement of 26-year old right tackle Brad Butler last week. The Bills have Trent Edwards, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Brian Brohm under contract for 2010.
A toe injury will keep Clausen from working this week in Indianapolis. The former Notre Dame quarterback was measured at over 6-2 and weighed 222 pounds at the Combine on Friday morning.
The Redskins are expected to place a restricted free agent tender on quarterback Jason Campbell, but are believed to be interested in using their top pick (4th overall) on Clausen or Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford.
Buffalo Bills general manager Buddy Nix would prefer to use their top pick (9th overall) on an offensive tackle, a major weakness on the Bills' roster that was exasperated with the sudden retirement of 26-year old right tackle Brad Butler last week. The Bills have Trent Edwards, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Brian Brohm under contract for 2010.
A toe injury will keep Clausen from working this week in Indianapolis. The former Notre Dame quarterback was measured at over 6-2 and weighed 222 pounds at the Combine on Friday morning.
Rams Tender Offers to 8 Exclusive Rights Free Agents
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the St. Louis Rams have tendered qualifying offers to eight "exclusive rights" free agents.
Exclusive rights free agents have fewer than three accrued seasons in the NFL.
Those tendered were:
DE C.J. Ah You
CB Quincy Butler
RB Kenneth Darby
LB Larry Grant
WR Jordan Kent
T Ryan McKee
S David Roach
LB David Vobora
Exclusive rights free agents have fewer than three accrued seasons in the NFL.
Those tendered were:
DE C.J. Ah You
CB Quincy Butler
RB Kenneth Darby
LB Larry Grant
WR Jordan Kent
T Ryan McKee
S David Roach
LB David Vobora
Colts to Hire Ron Turner
Former Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Ron Turner, who was fired in January and hired by Stanford earlier this month, is leaving the Cardinal to take an undisclosed position with the Indianapolis Colts, reports Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune.
McClure speculates that Turner could replace Clyde Christensen, the Colts' receivers coach who may replace Tom Moore as the team's offensive coordinator.
Stanford head coach Jim Harbaugh brought Turner in to coach the team's quarterbacks and receivers.
McClure speculates that Turner could replace Clyde Christensen, the Colts' receivers coach who may replace Tom Moore as the team's offensive coordinator.
Stanford head coach Jim Harbaugh brought Turner in to coach the team's quarterbacks and receivers.
Casey Hampton's Deal Isn't a Market-Setter
Below are the details of the 3-year, $21.3 million dollar contract that nose tackle Casey Hampton signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this week:
Signing bonus: $6.5 million dollars
Base salaries
2010: $4M
2011: $4.9M
2012: $5.9M
$11 million, or 51.6% of the deal, is guaranteed.
The always excellent Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com reports that $1M of the deal in each season is contingent on Hampton meeting workout and weight requirements. Overall, Reiss thinks the deal is bad news for Vince Wilfork.
"Wilfork, who is four years younger than Hampton, will command a richer deal than Hampton. But Hampton's deal helps establish the current-day market for nose tackles who play in 3-4 defenses, and it wasn't a blockbuster", Reiss writes.
No, it wasn't a blockbuster. But because of that 4-year age gap, I don't think it establishes the market, either. (Something the Steelers' front office hardly ever does, by the way)
Cleveland Browns nose tackle Shaun Rogers, who like Wilfork, is represented by Kennard McGuire, signed a six-year, $42 million dollar contract as a 29-year old nose tackle in 2008. That deal contained $20 million dollars in guarantees, as well.
Two off-season later, heading into an uncapped year, with more and more teams switching to a 3-4 defense, making nose tackles--a key component of a successful 3-4 defense-- harder and harder to find, the contract value of elite players at that position will have risen by only $100,000 per year?
I don't think so.
Even the NFL's current economic climate, Wilfork could get $8-9 million dollars per year in a long-term contract on the open market, with over $20 million in guarantees on a 4 to 5-year deal. That kind of deal probably won't happen in New England, and the franchise tag (and its two first-round pick compensation) will keep other teams from signing Wilfork to a contract that size.
Hampton's deal hasn't so much as set the market, as it ensured that Wilfork, unless he takes a considerable hometown discount, too, will play the 2010 season under the one-year franchise tag.
Signing bonus: $6.5 million dollars
Base salaries
2010: $4M
2011: $4.9M
2012: $5.9M
$11 million, or 51.6% of the deal, is guaranteed.
The always excellent Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com reports that $1M of the deal in each season is contingent on Hampton meeting workout and weight requirements. Overall, Reiss thinks the deal is bad news for Vince Wilfork.
"Wilfork, who is four years younger than Hampton, will command a richer deal than Hampton. But Hampton's deal helps establish the current-day market for nose tackles who play in 3-4 defenses, and it wasn't a blockbuster", Reiss writes.
No, it wasn't a blockbuster. But because of that 4-year age gap, I don't think it establishes the market, either. (Something the Steelers' front office hardly ever does, by the way)
Cleveland Browns nose tackle Shaun Rogers, who like Wilfork, is represented by Kennard McGuire, signed a six-year, $42 million dollar contract as a 29-year old nose tackle in 2008. That deal contained $20 million dollars in guarantees, as well.
Two off-season later, heading into an uncapped year, with more and more teams switching to a 3-4 defense, making nose tackles--a key component of a successful 3-4 defense-- harder and harder to find, the contract value of elite players at that position will have risen by only $100,000 per year?
I don't think so.
Even the NFL's current economic climate, Wilfork could get $8-9 million dollars per year in a long-term contract on the open market, with over $20 million in guarantees on a 4 to 5-year deal. That kind of deal probably won't happen in New England, and the franchise tag (and its two first-round pick compensation) will keep other teams from signing Wilfork to a contract that size.
Hampton's deal hasn't so much as set the market, as it ensured that Wilfork, unless he takes a considerable hometown discount, too, will play the 2010 season under the one-year franchise tag.
Maryland T Bruce Campbell Having Impressive Combine
Maryland offensive tackle Bruce Campbell cemented his status as a first-round prospect when he measured in at 6-6 and weighed 314 pounds, with 36 1/4" arms on Thursday.
Campbell did 34 reps in the 225-pound bench press on Friday, and when he hit Lucas Oil Stadium for on-field workouts on Saturday, posted unofficial times of 4.78 and 4.81 in the 40-yard dash.
Campbell has been described as one of the most improving looking physical specimens scouts have ever seen, as he has very little fat on his 6-6, 314-pound frame. His father was a basketball player, so Campbell attributes his physique to good genes.
"It’s genetics, you know," Campbell said on Thursday. "I didn’t really work hard at it until I really started to see how to use my body. 'If I lift, this is how much bigger I could get.' That’s what it was."
There are questions about Campbell's technique, as he only started 17 games at Maryland before declaring for the NFL Draft. Campbell knows he has room for improvement, technique-wise, perhaps more so than the rest of the tackle prospects.
"I do. I really do. I feel everyone has room for improvement," Campbell said. "But I feel like I have a little more. My first year, I'm really going to work on it because I really want to get in and play. I'm not the type of person who comes to the NFL and is satisfied with just being here.
"I actually want to do something in the NFL."
Campbell has met with the St. Louis Rams, who have the first overall pick in this year's draft, though that's probably a case of the Rams meeting with all the top prospects in case they trade down from the top spot. Campbell has also met with the Oakland Raiders (who pick 8th), the Houston Texans (20th), and the tackle-needy Indianapolis Colts, who pick 31st.
Campbell also spoken to the Seattle Seahawks, who hold the 6th and 14th picks in this year's draft and have a major need at the left tackle position.
Campbell did 34 reps in the 225-pound bench press on Friday, and when he hit Lucas Oil Stadium for on-field workouts on Saturday, posted unofficial times of 4.78 and 4.81 in the 40-yard dash.
Campbell has been described as one of the most improving looking physical specimens scouts have ever seen, as he has very little fat on his 6-6, 314-pound frame. His father was a basketball player, so Campbell attributes his physique to good genes.
"It’s genetics, you know," Campbell said on Thursday. "I didn’t really work hard at it until I really started to see how to use my body. 'If I lift, this is how much bigger I could get.' That’s what it was."
There are questions about Campbell's technique, as he only started 17 games at Maryland before declaring for the NFL Draft. Campbell knows he has room for improvement, technique-wise, perhaps more so than the rest of the tackle prospects.
"I do. I really do. I feel everyone has room for improvement," Campbell said. "But I feel like I have a little more. My first year, I'm really going to work on it because I really want to get in and play. I'm not the type of person who comes to the NFL and is satisfied with just being here.
"I actually want to do something in the NFL."
Campbell has met with the St. Louis Rams, who have the first overall pick in this year's draft, though that's probably a case of the Rams meeting with all the top prospects in case they trade down from the top spot. Campbell has also met with the Oakland Raiders (who pick 8th), the Houston Texans (20th), and the tackle-needy Indianapolis Colts, who pick 31st.
Campbell also spoken to the Seattle Seahawks, who hold the 6th and 14th picks in this year's draft and have a major need at the left tackle position.
Alabama DT Terrence Cody Weighs In at 354 Pounds
Former NFL scout Daniel Jeremiah of MovetheSticks.com reports that Alabama nose tackle Terrence Cody weighed in at 354 pounds this morning.
Cody weighed 370 pounds at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama last month. If he can get his weight down, and somehow prove to teams during the interview process that he's committed to keeping it down, he could improve his draft stock this weekend.
The massive nose tackle is projected to come off the board at some point in the second round. Losing another 15-20 pounds, and maintaining his strength, could see him rise into the latter portion of the first round.
Cody weighed 370 pounds at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama last month. If he can get his weight down, and somehow prove to teams during the interview process that he's committed to keeping it down, he could improve his draft stock this weekend.
The massive nose tackle is projected to come off the board at some point in the second round. Losing another 15-20 pounds, and maintaining his strength, could see him rise into the latter portion of the first round.
Vikings Not Tinkering With Adrian Peterson's Running Style
In addition to being willing to wait for a decision from quarterback Brett Favre, Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress isn't eager to change the running style of Pro Bowl running back Adrian Peterson.
"I'm not going to discourage [Peterson] from running the ball with the style that he runs the ball with," Childress said on Friday. "I'm not attempting to take his spirit or take his heart or any of those things...He's a good enough athlete and we're good enough coaches that we'll look at it and we'll do what we can to rectify it. Usually when he sets his mind to something he's pretty good at taking care of that business."
As productive as Peterson has been, totaling 4,484 rushing yards and 40 touchdowns over three Pro Bowl seasons, Peterson has struggled with fumbles, putting 20 on the ground during his career, with 16 coming in the last two seasons.
Peterson's struggles with ball security were never more evident than during the Vikings' 31-28 overtime loss to the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Championship Game, during which Peterson fumbled twice. (Neither resulted in a turnover)
Any chatter about the team consulting with former New York Giants running back Tiki Barber was quickly scuttled by Childress, who said Vikings running backs coach Eric Bieniemy would be the point man for addressing Peterson's issues with ball security.
"In my mind he's as good of running backs coach as there is in the National Football League," Childress said. "I feel like he's the best. Hands down, bar none. That would be the guy who will end up implementing it whatever it is we decide needs to be implemented. It may be nothing, it may just be a mental process."
"I'm not going to discourage [Peterson] from running the ball with the style that he runs the ball with," Childress said on Friday. "I'm not attempting to take his spirit or take his heart or any of those things...He's a good enough athlete and we're good enough coaches that we'll look at it and we'll do what we can to rectify it. Usually when he sets his mind to something he's pretty good at taking care of that business."
As productive as Peterson has been, totaling 4,484 rushing yards and 40 touchdowns over three Pro Bowl seasons, Peterson has struggled with fumbles, putting 20 on the ground during his career, with 16 coming in the last two seasons.
Peterson's struggles with ball security were never more evident than during the Vikings' 31-28 overtime loss to the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Championship Game, during which Peterson fumbled twice. (Neither resulted in a turnover)
Any chatter about the team consulting with former New York Giants running back Tiki Barber was quickly scuttled by Childress, who said Vikings running backs coach Eric Bieniemy would be the point man for addressing Peterson's issues with ball security.
"In my mind he's as good of running backs coach as there is in the National Football League," Childress said. "I feel like he's the best. Hands down, bar none. That would be the guy who will end up implementing it whatever it is we decide needs to be implemented. It may be nothing, it may just be a mental process."
NFL News and Notes - February 27, 2010
On-field workouts get underway in earnest today at the Scouting Combine, and to get you ready for it, here's a spin around the NFL and the goings on in Indianapolis:
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin met with the media at the Combine on Friday, and defensive end Osi Umenyiora was a hot topic.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick is expected to be traded this off-season.
Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan gave some hints about the team's direction.
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams will have to earn his starting job in 2010.
Adding depth at quarterback is an off-season priority for the Arizona Cardinals.
After a coin flip, the San Francisco 49ers will have the 17th pick of the 2010 NFL Draft.
The Seattle Seahawks will look at potential offensive playmakers this week in Indianapolis.
St. Louis Rams general manager Billy Devaney narrowed the top of the team's draft board to four players, the top two defensive tackles and top two quarterbacks.
Keeping unrestricted free agents Chad Clifton, Mark Tauscher, and Aaron Kampman could be costly to the Green Bay Packers.
Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress is willing to wait on a decision by Brett Favre.
The Chicago Bears are expected to be active in free agency this off-season.
Detroit Lions general manager Martin Mayhew's plan is to act quickly in free agency.
New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush will be back in 2010, head coach Sean Payton said.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Mark Dominik placed restricted free agent tenders on several players on Friday.
Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith met with the media on Friday.
Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers availability on March 5 is generating a lot of buzz at the Combine, prompting some to cry "tampering".
The Baltimore Ravens are expected to kick the tires on all the top wide receivers in this year's draft.
With Casey Hampton and Jeff Reed secured, the Pittsburgh Steelers are turning their attention to safety Ryan Clark.
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis is hopeful of signing a new contract this off-season.
Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren acknowledged that it's "a longshot" that both Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn will be back next season.
A quarterback may not be on the Buffalo Bills' shopping list on April 22.
New England Patriots director of player personnel Nick Caserio likes the team's wide receivers, but tight end Ben Watson will hit the free agent market.
New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum wants to see dedication and consistency from Braylon Edwards before giving the wide receiver a long-term deal.
When it comes to upgrading at wide receiver, the Miami Dolphins have options.
A coin toss has given the Jacksonville Jaguars the 10th pick of the 2010 NFL Draft.
39-year old Tennessee Titans center Kevin Mawae, an unrestricted free agency, could return as a backup.
Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith is preparing for free agency and the draft.
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay says the team will make a competitive offer to keep middle linebacker Gary Brackett.
Teams clamoring for quarterbacks at the top of the draft would benefit the Kansas City Chiefs.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall admits escalating fight before the death of teammate Darrent Williams on January 1, 2007.
San Diego Chargers running back Darren Sproles will be an unrestricted free agent on March 5.
Oakland Raiders tight end Zach Miller's pair of concussions last year means the team may be looking to add a prospect at the position.
Scouting Combine News and Notes
Central Michigan quarterback Dan LeFevour impressed the media on Friday.
Appalachian State quarterback Armanti Edwards will throw, but won't run on Sunday.
University of Cincinnati quarterback Tony Pike will do all the drills.
Hillsdale offensive tackle Jared Veldheer could be the Combine's top story.
LSU running back Charles Scott is recovering from a shoulder injury.
LSU wide receiver Brandon LaFell skipped the Senior Bowl to avoid a setback after injuring his knee during the Capital One Bowl.
Tennessee safety Eric Berry likes the idea of playing for the Buccaneers.
Florida quarterback Tim Tebow says changing his throwing motion wasn't on his college coaches agenda.
Notre Dame wide receiver Golden Tate is in high demand at the Combine, with half the league looking to meet with him.
At 5-7 and 154 pounds, Kansas State wide receiver Brandon Banks is drawing comparisons to Darren Sproles.
Western New York prospects Mike Williams (WR, Syracuse) and James Starks (RB, University of Buffalo) hope to impress scouts this weekend.
USC running back Joe McKnight feels he can be a 20-carry guy in the NFL.
Coming off a Lisfranc injury, University of Minnesota wide receiver Eric Decker should be 100% by training camp.
Today's NFL birthdays: Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez (34), Lions safety Jonathan Hefney (25), Vikings wide receiver Taye Biddle (27), Saints cornerback Glenn Sharpe (26), and Giants linebacker Kenny Ingram (24).
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin met with the media at the Combine on Friday, and defensive end Osi Umenyiora was a hot topic.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick is expected to be traded this off-season.
Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan gave some hints about the team's direction.
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams will have to earn his starting job in 2010.
Adding depth at quarterback is an off-season priority for the Arizona Cardinals.
After a coin flip, the San Francisco 49ers will have the 17th pick of the 2010 NFL Draft.
The Seattle Seahawks will look at potential offensive playmakers this week in Indianapolis.
St. Louis Rams general manager Billy Devaney narrowed the top of the team's draft board to four players, the top two defensive tackles and top two quarterbacks.
Keeping unrestricted free agents Chad Clifton, Mark Tauscher, and Aaron Kampman could be costly to the Green Bay Packers.
Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress is willing to wait on a decision by Brett Favre.
The Chicago Bears are expected to be active in free agency this off-season.
Detroit Lions general manager Martin Mayhew's plan is to act quickly in free agency.
New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush will be back in 2010, head coach Sean Payton said.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Mark Dominik placed restricted free agent tenders on several players on Friday.
Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith met with the media on Friday.
Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers availability on March 5 is generating a lot of buzz at the Combine, prompting some to cry "tampering".
The Baltimore Ravens are expected to kick the tires on all the top wide receivers in this year's draft.
With Casey Hampton and Jeff Reed secured, the Pittsburgh Steelers are turning their attention to safety Ryan Clark.
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis is hopeful of signing a new contract this off-season.
Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren acknowledged that it's "a longshot" that both Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn will be back next season.
A quarterback may not be on the Buffalo Bills' shopping list on April 22.
New England Patriots director of player personnel Nick Caserio likes the team's wide receivers, but tight end Ben Watson will hit the free agent market.
New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum wants to see dedication and consistency from Braylon Edwards before giving the wide receiver a long-term deal.
When it comes to upgrading at wide receiver, the Miami Dolphins have options.
A coin toss has given the Jacksonville Jaguars the 10th pick of the 2010 NFL Draft.
39-year old Tennessee Titans center Kevin Mawae, an unrestricted free agency, could return as a backup.
Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith is preparing for free agency and the draft.
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay says the team will make a competitive offer to keep middle linebacker Gary Brackett.
Teams clamoring for quarterbacks at the top of the draft would benefit the Kansas City Chiefs.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall admits escalating fight before the death of teammate Darrent Williams on January 1, 2007.
San Diego Chargers running back Darren Sproles will be an unrestricted free agent on March 5.
Oakland Raiders tight end Zach Miller's pair of concussions last year means the team may be looking to add a prospect at the position.
Scouting Combine News and Notes
Central Michigan quarterback Dan LeFevour impressed the media on Friday.
Appalachian State quarterback Armanti Edwards will throw, but won't run on Sunday.
University of Cincinnati quarterback Tony Pike will do all the drills.
Hillsdale offensive tackle Jared Veldheer could be the Combine's top story.
LSU running back Charles Scott is recovering from a shoulder injury.
LSU wide receiver Brandon LaFell skipped the Senior Bowl to avoid a setback after injuring his knee during the Capital One Bowl.
Tennessee safety Eric Berry likes the idea of playing for the Buccaneers.
Florida quarterback Tim Tebow says changing his throwing motion wasn't on his college coaches agenda.
Notre Dame wide receiver Golden Tate is in high demand at the Combine, with half the league looking to meet with him.
At 5-7 and 154 pounds, Kansas State wide receiver Brandon Banks is drawing comparisons to Darren Sproles.
Western New York prospects Mike Williams (WR, Syracuse) and James Starks (RB, University of Buffalo) hope to impress scouts this weekend.
USC running back Joe McKnight feels he can be a 20-carry guy in the NFL.
Coming off a Lisfranc injury, University of Minnesota wide receiver Eric Decker should be 100% by training camp.
Today's NFL birthdays: Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez (34), Lions safety Jonathan Hefney (25), Vikings wide receiver Taye Biddle (27), Saints cornerback Glenn Sharpe (26), and Giants linebacker Kenny Ingram (24).
Friday, February 26, 2010
Broncos WR Brandon Marshall Testimony Audio
Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall took the stand today in the trial of Willie Clark, who is accused of killing Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams on January 1, 2007.
The Denver Post is live-blogging the trial, and they've posted an mp3 of Marshall's testimony.
The Denver Post is live-blogging the trial, and they've posted an mp3 of Marshall's testimony.
Did Holmgren Tamper With Julius Peppers?
Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com seems to think so:
"On Friday, Browns president Mike Holmgren said during comments to reporters that his new team has had discussions regarding the possibility of signing impending free agent defensive end Julius Peppers, according to Justin Hathaway of NFL.com.
The rule in this regard is clear: 'Any public or private statement of interest, qualified or unqualified, in another club's player to that player's agent or representative, or to a member of the news media, is a violation of this Anti-Tampering Policy.'"
Here's what Holmgren said on Friday, when asked if considering how the Green Bay Packers signed Reggie White back in the early 90s, if Julius Peppers was on the Browns' radar screen:
"I learned a lot from Ron Wolf and if I didn't use that in my current position I'd be foolish. Yeah, we did make the trade for Brett (Favre). Reggie was the first free agent -- first year of free agency. When we talk about possible free agents, certainly Julius is one of the guys we talk about. Then I have to put on my other hat because there are some financial ramifications there. As great a player as Julius is, I'd be reluctant to compare anybody to Reggie White. We did it, at the time we bonused him for I think $8 million. Everybody thought we were nuts. It was numbers off the chart. Now think of that today. If I thought there was a Reggie White out there or a Brett Favre out there I could trade for, yeah, I'd be seriously interested."
Contrast that with the response from St. Louis Rams general manager Billy Devaney, who was asked about trading for Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick:
"We haven't talked to the Eagles about any of their players. This has come up a lot in St. Louis, and I have to stick to it. I can no more talk about Mike Vick than I can about Drew Brees or Tom Brady. He's a member of the Eagles. And he's under contract with the Eagles. But I can tell you this: We have not talked to any of their guys."
As much as I'd love to defend Holmgren's name, Florio is right: By the letter of the rule, Holmgren has tampered with Peppers by discussing him with the media, just as Florio's also right when he says the league rarely punishes teams for tampering.
It should also be noted that the Panthers, not Mike Florio, would need to be the ones to file tampering charges against Holmgren and Browns.
Would that happen?
Well, here's what Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said when the team announced that they will not use the franchise tag on Peppers this year:
"We never say never," Hurney said on Tuesday about the possibility of re-signing Peppers. "We always have an open mind. I will say this and I think history would indicate, when a player of Julius' caliber gets to this point (unrestricted free agency), seldom does it happen that they return."
Three days after admitting Peppers is an unrestricted agent, and that seldom do players "of Julius' caliber" return when they're in that position, it would be laughable for the Panthers to file tampering charges in an attempt to extract a draft choice from the Browns for the comments Holmgren made today.
"On Friday, Browns president Mike Holmgren said during comments to reporters that his new team has had discussions regarding the possibility of signing impending free agent defensive end Julius Peppers, according to Justin Hathaway of NFL.com.
The rule in this regard is clear: 'Any public or private statement of interest, qualified or unqualified, in another club's player to that player's agent or representative, or to a member of the news media, is a violation of this Anti-Tampering Policy.'"
Here's what Holmgren said on Friday, when asked if considering how the Green Bay Packers signed Reggie White back in the early 90s, if Julius Peppers was on the Browns' radar screen:
"I learned a lot from Ron Wolf and if I didn't use that in my current position I'd be foolish. Yeah, we did make the trade for Brett (Favre). Reggie was the first free agent -- first year of free agency. When we talk about possible free agents, certainly Julius is one of the guys we talk about. Then I have to put on my other hat because there are some financial ramifications there. As great a player as Julius is, I'd be reluctant to compare anybody to Reggie White. We did it, at the time we bonused him for I think $8 million. Everybody thought we were nuts. It was numbers off the chart. Now think of that today. If I thought there was a Reggie White out there or a Brett Favre out there I could trade for, yeah, I'd be seriously interested."
Contrast that with the response from St. Louis Rams general manager Billy Devaney, who was asked about trading for Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick:
"We haven't talked to the Eagles about any of their players. This has come up a lot in St. Louis, and I have to stick to it. I can no more talk about Mike Vick than I can about Drew Brees or Tom Brady. He's a member of the Eagles. And he's under contract with the Eagles. But I can tell you this: We have not talked to any of their guys."
As much as I'd love to defend Holmgren's name, Florio is right: By the letter of the rule, Holmgren has tampered with Peppers by discussing him with the media, just as Florio's also right when he says the league rarely punishes teams for tampering.
It should also be noted that the Panthers, not Mike Florio, would need to be the ones to file tampering charges against Holmgren and Browns.
Would that happen?
Well, here's what Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said when the team announced that they will not use the franchise tag on Peppers this year:
"We never say never," Hurney said on Tuesday about the possibility of re-signing Peppers. "We always have an open mind. I will say this and I think history would indicate, when a player of Julius' caliber gets to this point (unrestricted free agency), seldom does it happen that they return."
Three days after admitting Peppers is an unrestricted agent, and that seldom do players "of Julius' caliber" return when they're in that position, it would be laughable for the Panthers to file tampering charges in an attempt to extract a draft choice from the Browns for the comments Holmgren made today.
Bears GM (Sort Of) Addresses Ruskell Rumors
Chicago Bears general manager Jerry Angelo sort of addressed the rumors swirling that former Seattle Seahawks general manager Tim Ruskell would join the Bears' front office.
"Obviously, I want to restructure," Angelo said, according to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times. "But I haven't cemented anything.
"There's been a lot of speculation - wrongful speculation."
"He's a professional friend," Angelo said of Ruskell, who he worked with from 1987-2000 in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers front office.
"Obviously, I want to restructure," Angelo said, according to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times. "But I haven't cemented anything.
"There's been a lot of speculation - wrongful speculation."
"He's a professional friend," Angelo said of Ruskell, who he worked with from 1987-2000 in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers front office.
Minnesota WR Eric Decker Out Until June
University of Minnesota wide receiver Eric Decker suffered a Lisfranc injury to his left foot last October, bringing his senior season to an abrupt end.
Decker started 40 of 41 games for the Gophers, finishing his college career with 220 receptions for 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns. Decker battled through leg injuries in 2008 to haul in 84 passes for 1,074 yards and 7 touchdowns, and was named second-team All-Big Ten in 2008 and 2009.
Though he won't be doing on-field work at this week's Combine, he will do the bench press on Saturday and today, he met with the media to discuss where he's at in his recovery process.
"I’m going to get some surgery March 15 and get my plate and screw removed," Decker said. "Dr. Anderson said by June, I’ll be 'no restrictions' working out, and by fall camp I’ll be 100 percent."
A terrific athlete (he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins out of high school), Decker measured in at 6-3, 217 pounds today, and said he patterns his game after Minneapolis native Larry Fitzgerald.
Decker hopes to meet with the Minnesota Vikings, and has already met with a handful of position coaches, including those with the Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, Cleveland Browns, and Seattle Seahawks, whose quarterbacks coach, Jedd Fisch, was Decker's offensive coordinator in Minnesota last season.
"I hope I go away with a good message of being able introduce myself and sell myself to teams," Decker said of the interview process. "From a character standpoint, from the X’s and O’s receiver-type guy, and also show my strength in the bench."
And what are teams getting from Decker on the field?
"They’re getting a durable, reliable guy that has been through a lot of transition in college and understands how to quickly adapt to a philosophy offensively. And get on the field as a physical receiver, isn’t afraid to block, getting in the box and block some linebackers or whoever it may be. And also make a big play when it’s needed. Third down in a critical situation, go up and catch the ball when it’s needed to be made."
Due to concerns about his medical history, Decker is projected to go in the middle rounds (3-5).
Decker started 40 of 41 games for the Gophers, finishing his college career with 220 receptions for 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns. Decker battled through leg injuries in 2008 to haul in 84 passes for 1,074 yards and 7 touchdowns, and was named second-team All-Big Ten in 2008 and 2009.
Though he won't be doing on-field work at this week's Combine, he will do the bench press on Saturday and today, he met with the media to discuss where he's at in his recovery process.
"I’m going to get some surgery March 15 and get my plate and screw removed," Decker said. "Dr. Anderson said by June, I’ll be 'no restrictions' working out, and by fall camp I’ll be 100 percent."
A terrific athlete (he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins out of high school), Decker measured in at 6-3, 217 pounds today, and said he patterns his game after Minneapolis native Larry Fitzgerald.
Decker hopes to meet with the Minnesota Vikings, and has already met with a handful of position coaches, including those with the Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, Cleveland Browns, and Seattle Seahawks, whose quarterbacks coach, Jedd Fisch, was Decker's offensive coordinator in Minnesota last season.
"I hope I go away with a good message of being able introduce myself and sell myself to teams," Decker said of the interview process. "From a character standpoint, from the X’s and O’s receiver-type guy, and also show my strength in the bench."
And what are teams getting from Decker on the field?
"They’re getting a durable, reliable guy that has been through a lot of transition in college and understands how to quickly adapt to a philosophy offensively. And get on the field as a physical receiver, isn’t afraid to block, getting in the box and block some linebackers or whoever it may be. And also make a big play when it’s needed. Third down in a critical situation, go up and catch the ball when it’s needed to be made."
Due to concerns about his medical history, Decker is projected to go in the middle rounds (3-5).
USC's McKnight Feels He's a 20-Carry Guy
When Joe McKnight entered USC in 2007, some wondered if head coach Pete Carroll had cloned Reggie Bush, USC's Heisman Trophy-winning running back who was chosen with the 2nd overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft.
McKnight never lived up to those Heisman-level expectations, going so far as to give his college career "a C grade".
"I was frustrated with the injuries," McKnight said. "I couldn't really be that back that Coach Carroll wanted me to be. I tried my best, but it just didn't turn it out that way."
McKnight doesn't think those comparisons to Bush were unfair.
"No. It wasn't unfair," McKnight said. "Everybody gets compared to somebody, but that's what my biggest problem was--trying to be so much like him (Bush), instead of just being Joe McKnight and playing Joe McKnight football."
Though McKnight won't be chosen as highly in this year's draft as Bush was in 2006, he might have tough time shaking the Bush comparisons after he was measured at 5-11 and weighed 198 pounds on Friday. (Bush was 5-11, 201 pounds in '06)
McKnight said his fastest time in the 40 was 4.37 (Bush ran a 4.37 during his Pro Day in '06), which he's going to try to best on Sunday.
"I'm going to shoot for the stars and the low 4.3s," McKnight. "I'm not going to say I'm going to get it, (but) I'm shooting for it."
Splitting carries during his college career has McKnight feeling like he can carry a heavier load in the NFL.
"It's going to help me a lot because it will save hits on my body," McKnight said. "Coming into the league, you know a lot of running backs don't make it past 30. Prime example, LT (LaDainian Tomlinson) and Brian Westbrook. But me rotating with all these different backs at SC was a big help for me on my body and on my mental state.
"This past season I went from having eight carries a game to 15 carries a game. I feel like I can be that 20-carry a game guy. Just keeping my body in shape, and after every game, stay in that training room getting treatment."
McKnight said that he had made his decision to enter the NFL Draft before Carroll took the Seattle Seahawks head coaching job, adding that he "can't wait to see what he's (Carroll's) going to do in the league."
McKnight hopes to be a first-day guy, but said he "just hope somebody picks me up."
And if that somebody were Carroll?
"Maybe. I hope so."
McKnight never lived up to those Heisman-level expectations, going so far as to give his college career "a C grade".
"I was frustrated with the injuries," McKnight said. "I couldn't really be that back that Coach Carroll wanted me to be. I tried my best, but it just didn't turn it out that way."
McKnight doesn't think those comparisons to Bush were unfair.
"No. It wasn't unfair," McKnight said. "Everybody gets compared to somebody, but that's what my biggest problem was--trying to be so much like him (Bush), instead of just being Joe McKnight and playing Joe McKnight football."
Though McKnight won't be chosen as highly in this year's draft as Bush was in 2006, he might have tough time shaking the Bush comparisons after he was measured at 5-11 and weighed 198 pounds on Friday. (Bush was 5-11, 201 pounds in '06)
McKnight said his fastest time in the 40 was 4.37 (Bush ran a 4.37 during his Pro Day in '06), which he's going to try to best on Sunday.
"I'm going to shoot for the stars and the low 4.3s," McKnight. "I'm not going to say I'm going to get it, (but) I'm shooting for it."
Splitting carries during his college career has McKnight feeling like he can carry a heavier load in the NFL.
"It's going to help me a lot because it will save hits on my body," McKnight said. "Coming into the league, you know a lot of running backs don't make it past 30. Prime example, LT (LaDainian Tomlinson) and Brian Westbrook. But me rotating with all these different backs at SC was a big help for me on my body and on my mental state.
"This past season I went from having eight carries a game to 15 carries a game. I feel like I can be that 20-carry a game guy. Just keeping my body in shape, and after every game, stay in that training room getting treatment."
McKnight said that he had made his decision to enter the NFL Draft before Carroll took the Seattle Seahawks head coaching job, adding that he "can't wait to see what he's (Carroll's) going to do in the league."
McKnight hopes to be a first-day guy, but said he "just hope somebody picks me up."
And if that somebody were Carroll?
"Maybe. I hope so."
Mike Holmgren on Walter Jones
During his media session at the Scouting Combine, Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren was asked about Seattle Seahawks left tackle Walter Jones.
"That will be a huge hole to fill when he stops playing, and I hope he can play some more," Holmgren said, according to Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times. "I believe if I was still there I would be coaxing him into something. Trying anyway. But he has played a long time, and I think he has really been a warrior the last couple years because he's played on some bad wheels, a bad shoulder and things. He's played a lot of football.
"He's one of the best offensive players I've coached, yes, absolutely. And he's the best tackle."
"That will be a huge hole to fill when he stops playing, and I hope he can play some more," Holmgren said, according to Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times. "I believe if I was still there I would be coaxing him into something. Trying anyway. But he has played a long time, and I think he has really been a warrior the last couple years because he's played on some bad wheels, a bad shoulder and things. He's played a lot of football.
"He's one of the best offensive players I've coached, yes, absolutely. And he's the best tackle."
Holmgren Doesn't Expect Browns to Keep Both Quinn and Anderson in 2010
Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren doesn't expect both Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn to be with the team in 2010
"I think it's a longshot," Holmgren said on Friday. "But never say never. But I've gone on record saying I don't like quarterback competitions. They did that last year. And that didn't work all that great.
"Somebody's got to play a full season," he continued. "Not two games here and three there. So pick one, commit, coach him up, build confidence, make him better and then surround him with good people."
Finances may play a large role in the Browns' decision.
Anderson, who completed 44.5% of his passes for 888 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions last season, is due a $2 million dollar roster bonus on March 19, and has a $7.45 million dollar base salary, making him virtually untradeable. Quinn is a year younger than Anderson, is more athletic, less expensive, and performed better last season, but after finishing two of his three NFL seasons on injured reserve, there are questions about his durability.
The Browns are also rumored to be interested in acquiring Kevin Kolb from the Philadelphia Eagles, where general manager Tom Heckert worked for 10 years before joining the Browns organization last month.
If the Browns went in that direction, there's a chance that neither Quinn nor Anderson would be on the team in 2010.
"I think it's a longshot," Holmgren said on Friday. "But never say never. But I've gone on record saying I don't like quarterback competitions. They did that last year. And that didn't work all that great.
"Somebody's got to play a full season," he continued. "Not two games here and three there. So pick one, commit, coach him up, build confidence, make him better and then surround him with good people."
Finances may play a large role in the Browns' decision.
Anderson, who completed 44.5% of his passes for 888 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions last season, is due a $2 million dollar roster bonus on March 19, and has a $7.45 million dollar base salary, making him virtually untradeable. Quinn is a year younger than Anderson, is more athletic, less expensive, and performed better last season, but after finishing two of his three NFL seasons on injured reserve, there are questions about his durability.
The Browns are also rumored to be interested in acquiring Kevin Kolb from the Philadelphia Eagles, where general manager Tom Heckert worked for 10 years before joining the Browns organization last month.
If the Browns went in that direction, there's a chance that neither Quinn nor Anderson would be on the team in 2010.
Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant Addresses Suspension
"Whatever’s asked, I’m going to answer it", Oklahoma State wide receiver Dez Bryant said when asked how he was going to answer questions about his 2009 suspension by the NCAA during the interview process at this week's Combine.
"I just tell them I misled the NCAA about going out to Deion Sanders’ house," Bryant said. "I apologized for it and I’m back on track and ready to go.
"I was nervous, the way they came in. Going out to Deion Sanders’ house wasn’t a violation, but lying was a violation, so I got the punishment."
Bryant, who measured in at 6-2 and 225 pounds, with 34" arms and 9 3/4" hands, tweaked his hamstring last week and will not work out at the Combine.
Bryant's Pro Day is scheduled for March 10 on Oklahoma State's campus in Stillwater.
"I just tell them I misled the NCAA about going out to Deion Sanders’ house," Bryant said. "I apologized for it and I’m back on track and ready to go.
"I was nervous, the way they came in. Going out to Deion Sanders’ house wasn’t a violation, but lying was a violation, so I got the punishment."
Bryant, who measured in at 6-2 and 225 pounds, with 34" arms and 9 3/4" hands, tweaked his hamstring last week and will not work out at the Combine.
Bryant's Pro Day is scheduled for March 10 on Oklahoma State's campus in Stillwater.
Words of Wisdom From Charlie Casserly
Former NFL general manager and current CBS analyst Charlie Casserly on when to take offensive tackles.
"I'd take 'em as soon as I could get 'em," Casserly said at the Combine on Friday. "History shows if you analyze Pro Bowl rosters, most tackles are in the Pro Bowl are left tackles, and most came in the first round. If you're getting one after that, you're more lucky than good."
One question I often get from Seattle Seahawks fans is "Can the Seahawks wait and draft Charles Brown with the 40th pick?".
"Sure", I say. "But they'd be taking an awfully big risk."
This year's draft, where the first round is on April 22 and the second round begins at 6:30pm ET on April 23, provides teams with nearly 18 hours to regroup and re-evaluate their draft strategies after the first-round. During this time off, other teams in need of a tackle may be inclined to trade ahead of Seattle to draft a projected second-round tackle, which Brown has been headed into the Combine. (At 303 pounds, though, Brown's stock may be rising)
This is why the Seahawks, if they're serious about addressing the position this year, need to do so with the 6th or 14th pick.
The madness has gone on long enough.
"I'd take 'em as soon as I could get 'em," Casserly said at the Combine on Friday. "History shows if you analyze Pro Bowl rosters, most tackles are in the Pro Bowl are left tackles, and most came in the first round. If you're getting one after that, you're more lucky than good."
One question I often get from Seattle Seahawks fans is "Can the Seahawks wait and draft Charles Brown with the 40th pick?".
"Sure", I say. "But they'd be taking an awfully big risk."
This year's draft, where the first round is on April 22 and the second round begins at 6:30pm ET on April 23, provides teams with nearly 18 hours to regroup and re-evaluate their draft strategies after the first-round. During this time off, other teams in need of a tackle may be inclined to trade ahead of Seattle to draft a projected second-round tackle, which Brown has been headed into the Combine. (At 303 pounds, though, Brown's stock may be rising)
This is why the Seahawks, if they're serious about addressing the position this year, need to do so with the 6th or 14th pick.
The madness has gone on long enough.
Chargers To Let RB Sproles Test Free Agency
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the San Diego Chargers will not place a restricted free agent tender on running back Darren Sproles, allowing him to test unrestricted free agency on March 5.
Spoles, a fourth-round pick (130th overall) in 2005, played last season under the one-year franchise tag, which paid Sproles $6.621 million dollars in 2009. Any restricted free agent tender would've cost the Chargers 110% of Sproles' 2009 salary, or $7.283 million dollars.
The 5-6, 185-pound Sproles ran for a career-high 343 yards last season, and also set career-highs with 45 receptions, 497 receiving yards, 2,323 all-purpose yards and 8 total touchdowns.
Running back is even more of a priority this off-season, as the Chargers released LaDainian Tomlinson, the team's all-time leading rusher, earlier this week. The Chargers have running backs Michael Bennett and Curtis Brinkley, along with fullbacks Jacob Hester, Mike Tolbert, and Billy Latsko, under contract for 2010.
Spoles, a fourth-round pick (130th overall) in 2005, played last season under the one-year franchise tag, which paid Sproles $6.621 million dollars in 2009. Any restricted free agent tender would've cost the Chargers 110% of Sproles' 2009 salary, or $7.283 million dollars.
The 5-6, 185-pound Sproles ran for a career-high 343 yards last season, and also set career-highs with 45 receptions, 497 receiving yards, 2,323 all-purpose yards and 8 total touchdowns.
Running back is even more of a priority this off-season, as the Chargers released LaDainian Tomlinson, the team's all-time leading rusher, earlier this week. The Chargers have running backs Michael Bennett and Curtis Brinkley, along with fullbacks Jacob Hester, Mike Tolbert, and Billy Latsko, under contract for 2010.
Tom Coughlin on Osi Umenyiora
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin on disgruntled defensive end Osi Umenyiora, who wanted to meet with the Giants' front office/coaching staff to discuss his future with the team, if any.
"I just reassured Osi our expectations for him were very high," Coughlin said. "He’s an integral part of our plans and of our defensive football team. He met with Perry Fewell. I want to say he met with (DL coach) Robert Nunn, but I’m not exactly sure how that went because he didn't see all these people in one day. But Osi is a big part of our team and the word 'team' is critical to me.
"I mentioned some things about how our identity had slipped a little bit last year as the New York Giant football team. One of the things I believe in is team. I think that facet has to be brought back together before we go isolating offense, defense and special teams. We succeed as one.
"Osi’s a big part of our team and we expect he’ll come back, work as hard as he can and be a big part of our defensive rejuvenation, if you will. Competition is a very good thing. We’ve been able to, over the course of the last few years, have a very good system whereby we waved our defensive linemen in. It helped us in our Super Bowl year and we continue to do that.
"But Osi’s a big part of our plans."
Coughlin expressed disappointment that Umenyiora went public.
"He should come in and talk to me," Coughlin said. "Which he did do, and we had a good talk, but that’s where it’ll stop."
Umenyiora is signed through the 2012 season, and has a $3.1 million dollar base salary for 2010.
"I just reassured Osi our expectations for him were very high," Coughlin said. "He’s an integral part of our plans and of our defensive football team. He met with Perry Fewell. I want to say he met with (DL coach) Robert Nunn, but I’m not exactly sure how that went because he didn't see all these people in one day. But Osi is a big part of our team and the word 'team' is critical to me.
"I mentioned some things about how our identity had slipped a little bit last year as the New York Giant football team. One of the things I believe in is team. I think that facet has to be brought back together before we go isolating offense, defense and special teams. We succeed as one.
"Osi’s a big part of our team and we expect he’ll come back, work as hard as he can and be a big part of our defensive rejuvenation, if you will. Competition is a very good thing. We’ve been able to, over the course of the last few years, have a very good system whereby we waved our defensive linemen in. It helped us in our Super Bowl year and we continue to do that.
"But Osi’s a big part of our plans."
Coughlin expressed disappointment that Umenyiora went public.
"He should come in and talk to me," Coughlin said. "Which he did do, and we had a good talk, but that’s where it’ll stop."
Umenyiora is signed through the 2012 season, and has a $3.1 million dollar base salary for 2010.
Buccaneers Tender Ruud, Trueblood, and Williams
Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times reports the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed the 1st and 3rd round restricted free agent tender on middle linebacker Barrett Ruud and the original round tender on running back Cadillac Williams.
Right tackle Jeremy Trueblood, a second-round pick out of Boston College in 2006, was tendered at the second-round compensation level, and will earn $1.759 million dollars in 2010, provided he isn't signed to a long-term deal or to an offer sheet by another club.
As a player with five accrued seasons, Ruud's tender is worth $3.268 million dollars. Tampa Bay's second-round pick in 2005, Ruud has started 52 games over the last four seasons, totaling 467 tackles, 3 quarterback sacks, and 5 interceptions.
Williams, the Bucs' first-round pick in '05, was tendered at the "original round" level, and will receive 110% of his 2009 salary. Williams missed most of the 2007 and 2008 seasons with knee injuries, and has 3,240 career rushing yards with 18 touchdowns, while adding 88 receptions for 554 yards and three touchdowns as a receiver.
"Carnell has to decide what he wants to do, obviously, but once he accepts the 110-perncet offer, it's a deal," Buccaneers general manager Mark Dominik said Friday. "Once he does that, he's under contract."
Williams earned $2.094 million dollars in salary last season, and 110% of that would be $2.303 million dollars. They'll receive a first-round pick as compensation for Williams, should another team sign him to an offer sheet.
Right tackle Jeremy Trueblood, a second-round pick out of Boston College in 2006, was tendered at the second-round compensation level, and will earn $1.759 million dollars in 2010, provided he isn't signed to a long-term deal or to an offer sheet by another club.
As a player with five accrued seasons, Ruud's tender is worth $3.268 million dollars. Tampa Bay's second-round pick in 2005, Ruud has started 52 games over the last four seasons, totaling 467 tackles, 3 quarterback sacks, and 5 interceptions.
Williams, the Bucs' first-round pick in '05, was tendered at the "original round" level, and will receive 110% of his 2009 salary. Williams missed most of the 2007 and 2008 seasons with knee injuries, and has 3,240 career rushing yards with 18 touchdowns, while adding 88 receptions for 554 yards and three touchdowns as a receiver.
"Carnell has to decide what he wants to do, obviously, but once he accepts the 110-perncet offer, it's a deal," Buccaneers general manager Mark Dominik said Friday. "Once he does that, he's under contract."
Williams earned $2.094 million dollars in salary last season, and 110% of that would be $2.303 million dollars. They'll receive a first-round pick as compensation for Williams, should another team sign him to an offer sheet.
Oregon State's Canfield Wants to Show Off His Arm
Unlike the early-round quarterback prospects at this week's Scouting Combine, Oregon State quarterback Sean Canfield is looking forward to showing off his arm when quarterbacks hit the field this Sunday.
"After talking with my agent at the Senior Bowl, one thing I think they (NFL talent evaluators) want to see is arm strength. I’ve never doubted my arm strength. I’ve always considered myself with a pretty strong arm. And so I think showing that off on Sunday will be big for me.
"I want to show off what I have. I know a lot of guys have caught flak for not wanting to throw. I’ve never been a guy who would not want to do something like that. The only thing I won’t do is bench. But throwing is something I want to do and I want to show off that arm strength."
Canfield feels that playing in (Oregon State head coach) Mike Riley's pro-style offense, working out in the off-season with former Oregon State quarterbacks Derek Anderson and Matt Moore, as well as playing under center 60% of the time, has helped him prepare for the next level.
The left-handed Canfield passed for 3,271 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2009, after missing most of the 2008 season with a left shoulder injury. Canfield has already spoken with the Seattle Seahawks, and has another meeting with them scheduled for Friday night.
"After talking with my agent at the Senior Bowl, one thing I think they (NFL talent evaluators) want to see is arm strength. I’ve never doubted my arm strength. I’ve always considered myself with a pretty strong arm. And so I think showing that off on Sunday will be big for me.
"I want to show off what I have. I know a lot of guys have caught flak for not wanting to throw. I’ve never been a guy who would not want to do something like that. The only thing I won’t do is bench. But throwing is something I want to do and I want to show off that arm strength."
Canfield feels that playing in (Oregon State head coach) Mike Riley's pro-style offense, working out in the off-season with former Oregon State quarterbacks Derek Anderson and Matt Moore, as well as playing under center 60% of the time, has helped him prepare for the next level.
The left-handed Canfield passed for 3,271 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2009, after missing most of the 2008 season with a left shoulder injury. Canfield has already spoken with the Seattle Seahawks, and has another meeting with them scheduled for Friday night.
Rams' GM Billy Devaney Talks Quarterbacks
With ESPN's Adam Schefter reporting that the St. Louis Rams would take Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford with the 1st overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, Bradford was a popular subject matter when general manager Billy Devaney spoke to the media this morning at the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine.
"That took a lot of pressure off us right away because when Dr. Schefter cleared him medically," Devaney joked. "We feel really good about the health status of Sam Bradford now with Dr. Schefter giving him a clean bill of health and guaranteeing our pick. So we're on to the second round right now."
Prior to that comment, Devaney mentioned that the team's medical staff is gathering information on Bradford's injury, and that they'll probably get more than one opinion on his shoulder.
Devaney also mentioned the importance of needing to see Bradford work out.
"You'll get obviously all the tests, but we've got to see him throw. I think his (pro) date is the 25th of March and in my mind we may go in again right before the draft and see a couple weeks later what his status is. Is it improving? Is it the same? Has he regressed? We need to find out and be as sure as possible."
Given his prior history with drafting quarterbacks, namely Ryan Leaf when he was the director of pro personnel for the San Diego Chargers, Devaney now looks for the intangibles when evaluating quarterbacks.
"I've come full circle. If you don't have the intangibles to play that position...To me the physical skills are almost the easy part now for these kids. There's so much that goes into being a quarterback in the NFL. The work ethic that you have to have. The leadership. The time that you put in. The media scrutiny. If you can't handle all that stuff, you're going to have a hard time performing on the field."
Unlike other talent evaluators, Devaney doesn't fret about the decision by top QB prospects to wait for their Pro Days to work out.
"It's not worth getting frustrated over. Some of these guys, it's legit. I mean physically, they can't work out. So you've just got to roll with it. We'll see 'em work out before the draft.
"But I will say this: You'd love to see them work out, but for a quarterback here, it's not the greatest environment for them to show what they've got. So there's no sense freaking out about it. It is what it is. We'll get to see 'em throw eventually."
Why is it so hard for quarterbacks to work out at the Combine?
"Well, they're throwing to receivers that they've never worked with before," Devaney said. "They'll go to their pro days that they'll have and it's structured. It's organized. They're throwing to receivers that they know a lot about. They're throwing routes here (at the Combine) that maybe they haven't thrown in college. And it's hard to get in a groove. You throw three balls and then you go to the end of the line. And you wait for your turn to come up again and you throw three balls and then you stand around...It does make it hard for a quarterback."
"That took a lot of pressure off us right away because when Dr. Schefter cleared him medically," Devaney joked. "We feel really good about the health status of Sam Bradford now with Dr. Schefter giving him a clean bill of health and guaranteeing our pick. So we're on to the second round right now."
Prior to that comment, Devaney mentioned that the team's medical staff is gathering information on Bradford's injury, and that they'll probably get more than one opinion on his shoulder.
Devaney also mentioned the importance of needing to see Bradford work out.
"You'll get obviously all the tests, but we've got to see him throw. I think his (pro) date is the 25th of March and in my mind we may go in again right before the draft and see a couple weeks later what his status is. Is it improving? Is it the same? Has he regressed? We need to find out and be as sure as possible."
Given his prior history with drafting quarterbacks, namely Ryan Leaf when he was the director of pro personnel for the San Diego Chargers, Devaney now looks for the intangibles when evaluating quarterbacks.
"I've come full circle. If you don't have the intangibles to play that position...To me the physical skills are almost the easy part now for these kids. There's so much that goes into being a quarterback in the NFL. The work ethic that you have to have. The leadership. The time that you put in. The media scrutiny. If you can't handle all that stuff, you're going to have a hard time performing on the field."
Unlike other talent evaluators, Devaney doesn't fret about the decision by top QB prospects to wait for their Pro Days to work out.
"It's not worth getting frustrated over. Some of these guys, it's legit. I mean physically, they can't work out. So you've just got to roll with it. We'll see 'em work out before the draft.
"But I will say this: You'd love to see them work out, but for a quarterback here, it's not the greatest environment for them to show what they've got. So there's no sense freaking out about it. It is what it is. We'll get to see 'em throw eventually."
Why is it so hard for quarterbacks to work out at the Combine?
"Well, they're throwing to receivers that they've never worked with before," Devaney said. "They'll go to their pro days that they'll have and it's structured. It's organized. They're throwing to receivers that they know a lot about. They're throwing routes here (at the Combine) that maybe they haven't thrown in college. And it's hard to get in a groove. You throw three balls and then you go to the end of the line. And you wait for your turn to come up again and you throw three balls and then you stand around...It does make it hard for a quarterback."
Favre's Agent Isn't Sure What Favre Will Do
James "Bus" Cook, the agent for Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre, isn't sure what his most famous, and most indecisive, client will decide about his playing future, Judd Zulgad of the Star Tribune reports.
"I don't know, I have no idea," Cook said at the NFL Scouting Combine this morning. "He's just not even thinking about it really.
"We'll just have to see what he wants to do whenever he makes up his mind," Cook said. "I've never asked him about [the future] and don't intend to start that now. I've never bothered him about that stuff."
Cook was able to discuss one event in Favre's future, though, that being his appearance on "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno next week.
"They'll be talking about retirement and un-retirement and all that stuff," Cook said, jokingly. "They both have been doing it."
"I don't know, I have no idea," Cook said at the NFL Scouting Combine this morning. "He's just not even thinking about it really.
"We'll just have to see what he wants to do whenever he makes up his mind," Cook said. "I've never asked him about [the future] and don't intend to start that now. I've never bothered him about that stuff."
Cook was able to discuss one event in Favre's future, though, that being his appearance on "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno next week.
"They'll be talking about retirement and un-retirement and all that stuff," Cook said, jokingly. "They both have been doing it."
"Original Pick" Tender for Giants WR Sinorice Moss
New York Giants wide receiver Sinorice Moss has received the "original round" restricted free agent tender, Ralph Vacchiano of the New York Daily News reports.
Moss, a second-round pick by the Giants in 2006, would receive a base salary of $1.176 million dollars if he does not sign a long-term deal or an offer sheet from another club, who would be required to compensate the Giants with a third-round draft pick because of the "Upgraded Tenders" used on Barry Cofield, Dave Tollefson, and Domenik Hixon.
The 5-8, 185-pound receiver has 39 receptions for 421 yards and 3 touchdowns in 37 career games.
Moss, a second-round pick by the Giants in 2006, would receive a base salary of $1.176 million dollars if he does not sign a long-term deal or an offer sheet from another club, who would be required to compensate the Giants with a third-round draft pick because of the "Upgraded Tenders" used on Barry Cofield, Dave Tollefson, and Domenik Hixon.
The 5-8, 185-pound receiver has 39 receptions for 421 yards and 3 touchdowns in 37 career games.
Bucs' Place High RFA Tender on LT Donald Penn
For the second year in a row, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed the high restricted free agent tender on left tackle Donald Penn, reports Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network.
"Bucs LT Donald Penn gets the highest restricted tender for the second straight year and his agent is not pleased", La Canfora tweeted.
Penn is a 6-5, 305-pound undrafted free agent from Utah State who the Buccaneers signed off the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad in 2006. Penn has started 44 consecutive games at left tackle, replacing Luke Petitgout, who tore an ACL four games into the 2007 season.
Because of the uncapped year, Penn is not eligible for unrestricted free agency.
Penn played last season under the high RFA tender, earning $2.792 million dollars in base salary. If the two sides are unable to reach a long-term deal this off-season, Penn will earn $3.168 million dollars in base salary in 2010.
The Buccaneers would receive a 1st and 3rd round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft should another team sign Penn to an offer sheet that the Buccaneers decline to match.
"Bucs LT Donald Penn gets the highest restricted tender for the second straight year and his agent is not pleased", La Canfora tweeted.
Penn is a 6-5, 305-pound undrafted free agent from Utah State who the Buccaneers signed off the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad in 2006. Penn has started 44 consecutive games at left tackle, replacing Luke Petitgout, who tore an ACL four games into the 2007 season.
Because of the uncapped year, Penn is not eligible for unrestricted free agency.
Penn played last season under the high RFA tender, earning $2.792 million dollars in base salary. If the two sides are unable to reach a long-term deal this off-season, Penn will earn $3.168 million dollars in base salary in 2010.
The Buccaneers would receive a 1st and 3rd round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft should another team sign Penn to an offer sheet that the Buccaneers decline to match.
Boston Herald: Branch Isn't Going Anywhere
While reporting on some New England Patriots nuggets, Ian Rapoport of the Boston Herald is hearing that Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Deion Branch isn't going anywhere.
"Just heard from a pretty reliable source that Deion Branch isn’t going anywhere in Seattle. The release of Nate Burleson seemed to make that happen. So he may not reunite with Tom Brady."
Burleson is eligible for unrestricted free agency on March 5, and there was some speculation that the 'Hawks would use the franchise tag to keep the Seattle native in the 206 area code. Seattle used the tag on kicker Olindo Mare, meaning Burleson will test what's believed to be a rather thin free agent wide receiver market.
Branch is on the books for a $5.47 million dollar base salary in 2010, the fifth year of a six-year contract Branch signed with the team after being acquired for a 2007 first-round pick (Brandon Meriweather). The 30-year old caught 45 passes for 437 yards (9.7 avg) and a pair of touchdowns in 2009, and has 177 receptions for 2,235 yards and 14 touchdowns in the 47 games he's played in a Seahawks uniform.
Personally, I would be shocked if Branch were back in Seattle at his present salary. That said, a year ago at this time, I would've been shocked if Branch were on the Seahawks' 53-man roster to begin 2009 if he didn't agree to restructure the $4.94 million dollars beforehand.
That restructure never happened, and despite all the Seahawks' front office shuffling over the last two-and-a-half months, John Idzik still oversees the team's salary cap.
Another possible element to the "Branch isn't going anywhere" chatter is that the Seahawks may be trying to trade Branch after March 5. (For salary cap reasons, they can't do anything with Branch before the new league year begins) That won't be easy, as whoever acquires Branch will almost certainly seek to reduce his salary before finalizing a trade.
Branch might be willing to do for one team, and one team only: The New England Patriots.
"Just heard from a pretty reliable source that Deion Branch isn’t going anywhere in Seattle. The release of Nate Burleson seemed to make that happen. So he may not reunite with Tom Brady."
Burleson is eligible for unrestricted free agency on March 5, and there was some speculation that the 'Hawks would use the franchise tag to keep the Seattle native in the 206 area code. Seattle used the tag on kicker Olindo Mare, meaning Burleson will test what's believed to be a rather thin free agent wide receiver market.
Branch is on the books for a $5.47 million dollar base salary in 2010, the fifth year of a six-year contract Branch signed with the team after being acquired for a 2007 first-round pick (Brandon Meriweather). The 30-year old caught 45 passes for 437 yards (9.7 avg) and a pair of touchdowns in 2009, and has 177 receptions for 2,235 yards and 14 touchdowns in the 47 games he's played in a Seahawks uniform.
Personally, I would be shocked if Branch were back in Seattle at his present salary. That said, a year ago at this time, I would've been shocked if Branch were on the Seahawks' 53-man roster to begin 2009 if he didn't agree to restructure the $4.94 million dollars beforehand.
That restructure never happened, and despite all the Seahawks' front office shuffling over the last two-and-a-half months, John Idzik still oversees the team's salary cap.
Another possible element to the "Branch isn't going anywhere" chatter is that the Seahawks may be trying to trade Branch after March 5. (For salary cap reasons, they can't do anything with Branch before the new league year begins) That won't be easy, as whoever acquires Branch will almost certainly seek to reduce his salary before finalizing a trade.
Branch might be willing to do for one team, and one team only: The New England Patriots.
Giants Tender Hixon, Do Not Tender Dockery
Mike Garafolo of the Newark Star-Ledger reports that the New York Giants have placed the second-round tender on wide receiver Domenik Hixon, but will not tender a qualifying offer to cornerback Kevin Dockery.
Hixon, a fourth-round pick by the Denver Broncos in 2006, has three accrued seasons, so his tender is worth $1.684 million dollars. If another team signs him to an offer sheet, which the Giants decline to match, the Giants will be compensated with a second-round pick.
Hixon has 59 receptions for 788 yards and 3 touchdowns during his career, and has averaged 24.6 yards per kick return and 11 yards per punt return, including 15.1 yards on his 17 returns in 2009.
The 6-2, 182-pound receiver from Akron has two returns for touchdowns, and 28 career tackles on special teams.
Dockery (5-8, 188) signed with the Giants as an undrafted free agent out of Mississippi State in 2006, and has appeared in 51 games, making 10 starts in the last four seasons. He has 149 career tackles, 3 interceptions and 23 passes defensed during his career.
Garafolo adds that the Giants have tendered wide receiver Derek Hagan at an undisclosed level.
Hixon, a fourth-round pick by the Denver Broncos in 2006, has three accrued seasons, so his tender is worth $1.684 million dollars. If another team signs him to an offer sheet, which the Giants decline to match, the Giants will be compensated with a second-round pick.
Hixon has 59 receptions for 788 yards and 3 touchdowns during his career, and has averaged 24.6 yards per kick return and 11 yards per punt return, including 15.1 yards on his 17 returns in 2009.
The 6-2, 182-pound receiver from Akron has two returns for touchdowns, and 28 career tackles on special teams.
Dockery (5-8, 188) signed with the Giants as an undrafted free agent out of Mississippi State in 2006, and has appeared in 51 games, making 10 starts in the last four seasons. He has 149 career tackles, 3 interceptions and 23 passes defensed during his career.
Garafolo adds that the Giants have tendered wide receiver Derek Hagan at an undisclosed level.
Why the 16th/17th Pick Coin Flip Was Significant
Matt Maiocco of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat pointed out the significance of the coin flip to determine the 16th and 17th picks of the 2010 NFL Draft:
"Because 49ers pick 17, and not 16, they can sign pick to maximum 5-year deal. Picks 1-16 are allowed to receive 6-year contracts", Maiocco posted on Twitter.
As faithful readers of this blog, you may be familiar with the "2009 NFL Rookie Signing Status" page, which shows that only three of the Top 16 picks in last year's draft signed six-year deals:
1. Detroit - QB, Matthew Stafford, Georgia - Signed (6-years, $72 million; $41.7 million guaranteed)
4. Seattle - LB, Aaron Curry, Wake Forest - Signed (6-years, $60M; $34M guaranteed)
10. San Francisco - WR, Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech - Signed (6-years, $32M; $17M guaranteed)
Yes, one of the teams who signed a first-round pick to a six-year deal was the 49ers, but by signing in mid-October, Crabtree's deal was more of a 5 1/2 year deal. (The final year of Crabtree's deal can be voided, but the triggers are not easily attainable)
"Because 49ers pick 17, and not 16, they can sign pick to maximum 5-year deal. Picks 1-16 are allowed to receive 6-year contracts", Maiocco posted on Twitter.
As faithful readers of this blog, you may be familiar with the "2009 NFL Rookie Signing Status" page, which shows that only three of the Top 16 picks in last year's draft signed six-year deals:
1. Detroit - QB, Matthew Stafford, Georgia - Signed (6-years, $72 million; $41.7 million guaranteed)
4. Seattle - LB, Aaron Curry, Wake Forest - Signed (6-years, $60M; $34M guaranteed)
10. San Francisco - WR, Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech - Signed (6-years, $32M; $17M guaranteed)
Yes, one of the teams who signed a first-round pick to a six-year deal was the 49ers, but by signing in mid-October, Crabtree's deal was more of a 5 1/2 year deal. (The final year of Crabtree's deal can be voided, but the triggers are not easily attainable)
Notable RB Measurements at Combine
Via Daniel Jeremiah at www.MoveTheSticks.com:
Jahvid Best, Cal - 5101, 199 pounds
LeGarrette Blount, Oregon - 6004, 241 pounds
Toby Gerhart, Stanford - 6000, 231 pounds
Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech - 5112, 229 pounds
Ryan Mathews, Fresno State - 5115, 218 pounds
Joe McKnight, USC - 5113, 198 pounds
C.J. Spiller, Clemson - 5105, 196 pounds
Jahvid Best, Cal - 5101, 199 pounds
LeGarrette Blount, Oregon - 6004, 241 pounds
Toby Gerhart, Stanford - 6000, 231 pounds
Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech - 5112, 229 pounds
Ryan Mathews, Fresno State - 5115, 218 pounds
Joe McKnight, USC - 5113, 198 pounds
C.J. Spiller, Clemson - 5105, 196 pounds
QB and WR Combine Measurements
Former NFL scout Daniel Jeremiah of MovetheSticks.com has the heights and weights of some of the more notable quarterbacks and wide receivers at this year's Combine.
Quarterbacks
Sam Bradford, Oklahoma - 6042, 236 pounds
Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame - 6025, 222 pounds
Colt McCoy, Texas - 6011, 216 pounds
Jevan Snead, Mississippi - 6030, 219 pounds
Tim Tebow, Florida - 6026, 236 pounds
Wide Receivers
Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State - 6020, 225 pounds (34" arms, 9 3/4" hands)
Dezmon Briscoe, Kansas - 6020, 207 pounds
Arrelious Benn, Illinois - 6010, 219 pounds
Jordan Shipley, Texas - 5112, 193 pounds
Golden Tate, Notre Dame - 5102, 199 pounds
Demaryius Thomas, Georgia Tech - 6032, 224 pounds
Damian Williams, USC - 6005, 197 pounds
Mike Williams, Syracuse - 6014, 221 pounds
Of Bradford's weight, Jeremiah's source said "that Bradford carried 236 well. Muscled, not puffy."
Quarterbacks
Sam Bradford, Oklahoma - 6042, 236 pounds
Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame - 6025, 222 pounds
Colt McCoy, Texas - 6011, 216 pounds
Jevan Snead, Mississippi - 6030, 219 pounds
Tim Tebow, Florida - 6026, 236 pounds
Wide Receivers
Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State - 6020, 225 pounds (34" arms, 9 3/4" hands)
Dezmon Briscoe, Kansas - 6020, 207 pounds
Arrelious Benn, Illinois - 6010, 219 pounds
Jordan Shipley, Texas - 5112, 193 pounds
Golden Tate, Notre Dame - 5102, 199 pounds
Demaryius Thomas, Georgia Tech - 6032, 224 pounds
Damian Williams, USC - 6005, 197 pounds
Mike Williams, Syracuse - 6014, 221 pounds
Of Bradford's weight, Jeremiah's source said "that Bradford carried 236 well. Muscled, not puffy."
2010 NFL Draft Order
Several coin tosses were done this morning to finalize the order of the 2010 NFL Draft.
- The Jacksonville Jaguars won their coin toss with the Chicago Bears, and will pick 10th. The Bears traded their first-round pick to the Denver Broncos, who will choose 11th.
- The Tennessee Titans won their coin toss with the Carolina Panthers, and will pick 16th. The Panthers traded their first-round pick to the San Francisco 49ers, who will choose 17th.
- The Atlanta Falcons won their coin toss with the Houston Texans, and will pick 19th. The Texans will pick 20th.
1. St. Louis Rams (1-15)
2. Detroit Lions (2-14)
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-13)
4. Washington Redskins (4-12)
5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
6. Seattle Seahawks (5-11)
7. Cleveland Browns (5-11)
8. Oakland Raiders (5-11)
9. Buffalo Bills (6-10)
10. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-9)
11. Denver Broncos (8-8) (fr. 7-9 Chicago Bears)
12. Miami Dolphins (7-9)
13. San Francisco 49ers (8-8)
14. Seattle Seahawks (fr. 8-8 Denver Broncos)
15. New York Giants (8-8)
16. Tennessee Titans (8-8)
17. San Francisco 49ers (fr. 8-8 Carolina Panthers)
18. Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
19. Atlanta Falcons (9-7)
20. Houston Texans (9-7)
21. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6)
22. New England Patriots (10-6)
23. Green Bay Packers (11-5)
24. Philadelphia Eagles (11-5)
25. Baltimore Ravens (9-7)
26. Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
27. Dallas Cowboys (11-5)
28. San Diego Chargers (13-3)
29. New York Jets (9-7)
30. Minnesota Vikings (12-4)
31. Indianapolis Colts (14-2)
32. New Orleans Saints (13-3)
- The Jacksonville Jaguars won their coin toss with the Chicago Bears, and will pick 10th. The Bears traded their first-round pick to the Denver Broncos, who will choose 11th.
- The Tennessee Titans won their coin toss with the Carolina Panthers, and will pick 16th. The Panthers traded their first-round pick to the San Francisco 49ers, who will choose 17th.
- The Atlanta Falcons won their coin toss with the Houston Texans, and will pick 19th. The Texans will pick 20th.
1. St. Louis Rams (1-15)
2. Detroit Lions (2-14)
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-13)
4. Washington Redskins (4-12)
5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
6. Seattle Seahawks (5-11)
7. Cleveland Browns (5-11)
8. Oakland Raiders (5-11)
9. Buffalo Bills (6-10)
10. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-9)
11. Denver Broncos (8-8) (fr. 7-9 Chicago Bears)
12. Miami Dolphins (7-9)
13. San Francisco 49ers (8-8)
14. Seattle Seahawks (fr. 8-8 Denver Broncos)
15. New York Giants (8-8)
16. Tennessee Titans (8-8)
17. San Francisco 49ers (fr. 8-8 Carolina Panthers)
18. Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
19. Atlanta Falcons (9-7)
20. Houston Texans (9-7)
21. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6)
22. New England Patriots (10-6)
23. Green Bay Packers (11-5)
24. Philadelphia Eagles (11-5)
25. Baltimore Ravens (9-7)
26. Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
27. Dallas Cowboys (11-5)
28. San Diego Chargers (13-3)
29. New York Jets (9-7)
30. Minnesota Vikings (12-4)
31. Indianapolis Colts (14-2)
32. New Orleans Saints (13-3)
NFL News and Notes - February 26, 2010
Here's this morning's spin around the NFL and 2010 NFL Scouting Combine.
How does Casey Hampton's deal with the Steelers affect the New England Patriots?
Buffalo Bills head coach Chan Gailey will fit his schemes to the skills of the players.
New York Jets guard Brandon Moore is preparing for his post-NFL career.
Miami Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland defended safety Gibril Wilson on Thursday.
The Cincinnati Bengals may draft a kicker in April, writes Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Derek Anderson's $9.45 million dollars in total compensation in 2010 makes him untradeable.
The Baltimore Ravens may take a long look at the top tight ends in this year's draft class.
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Casey Hampton signed a multi-year deal on Thursday, allowing the team to use the franchise tag on kicker Jeff Reed.
Tennessee Titans scout C.O. Brocato was named the Fritz Pollard Alliance Scout of the Year.
The Indianapolis Colts did not place the franchise tag on linebacker Gary Brackett.
Denver Broncos defensive end Elvis Dumervil took the witness stand in the trial of Willie Clark, the man accused of killing of Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams.
Kansas City Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli wants to re-sign the team's free agents.
The Oakland Raiders used the "exclusive rights" franchise tag on defensive end Richard Seymour.
San Diego Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie is being discussed by the team in trade talks in Indianapolis, Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.
San Francisco 49ers general manager Scot McCloughan says the team will impose it's own salary cap in 2010.
Sooner or later, the Seattle Seahawks will need to find a replacement for Walter Jones, writes Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt and general manager Rod Graves signed four-year contract extensions, locking them up through the 2013 season.
The St. Louis Rams are planning to place restricted free agent tenders on safety O.J. Atogwe and offensive tackle Alex Barron, but not guard Mark Setterstrom.
With no picks in the first two rounds, the Chicago Bears have to find hidden gems.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz isn't limiting the team's draft options to defensive tackle with the second overall pick.
With a deep offensive tackle class, the Green Bay Packers may get the player they need.
Minnesota Vikings vice president of player personnel Rick Spielman wasn't going to discuss the contract of kicker Ryan Longwell, who is due a $500,000 roster bonus on March 7.
The New Orleans Saints have extended qualifying offers to thirteen restricted free agents, with a few more still on the agenda.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Bryant will be an unrestricted free agent on March 5.
Finding a backup to nose tackle Jay Ratliff is a priority for the Dallas Cowboys.
Washington Redskins quarterback Colt Brennan faces an uncertain future with the franchise.
Offensive tackle could be an option for the Philadelphia Eagles in this year's draft.
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora met with the front office to discuss his future with the team.
Scouting Combine News and Notes
University of Miami's Jimmy Graham and Florida's Aaron Hernandez are two of the top tight ends in this year's draft.
Florida quarterback Tim Tebow is drawing comparisons to Vince Young.
Notre Dame offensive tackle Sam Young could be an intriguing prospect for the Patriots.
Alabama tight end Colin Peek believes his style of play would "translate seamlessly" into the Patriots' system.
USC center Jeff Byers, who missed two seasons with injuries, was poked and prodded by NFL medical staffs in Indianapolis on Thursday.
Idaho guard Mike Iupati understands the value of being versatile.
The Rams are interested in a pair of in-state products, Missouri offensive lineman Kurtis Gregory and Missouri State tight end Clay Harbor.
Hillsdale offensive tackle Jared Veldheer is enjoying his Combine experience.
Iowa offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga says his medical issues are behind him, reports Greg Bedard of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
LSU running back Trindon Holliday hopes to post a 4.23 time in the 40-yard dash, which would be a Combine record.
Bills head coach Chan Gailey discussed the Georgia Tech players participating in the Combine.
Stanford tight end Jim Dray has spent a lot of his time at the Combine meeting with medical staffs.
Texas Tech guard Brandon Carter is sporting a more conservative look for his job interview at the Combine.
Today's NFL birthdays: Cardinals wide receiver Sean Morey (34), Bills linebacker Chris Draft (34), Bears tight end Fontel Mines (25), Browns running back Jerome Harrison (27), Texans defensive end Tim Jamison (24), Colts defensive end Robert Mathis (29), and Raiders wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey (23).
How does Casey Hampton's deal with the Steelers affect the New England Patriots?
Buffalo Bills head coach Chan Gailey will fit his schemes to the skills of the players.
New York Jets guard Brandon Moore is preparing for his post-NFL career.
Miami Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland defended safety Gibril Wilson on Thursday.
The Cincinnati Bengals may draft a kicker in April, writes Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Derek Anderson's $9.45 million dollars in total compensation in 2010 makes him untradeable.
The Baltimore Ravens may take a long look at the top tight ends in this year's draft class.
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Casey Hampton signed a multi-year deal on Thursday, allowing the team to use the franchise tag on kicker Jeff Reed.
Tennessee Titans scout C.O. Brocato was named the Fritz Pollard Alliance Scout of the Year.
The Indianapolis Colts did not place the franchise tag on linebacker Gary Brackett.
Denver Broncos defensive end Elvis Dumervil took the witness stand in the trial of Willie Clark, the man accused of killing of Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams.
Kansas City Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli wants to re-sign the team's free agents.
The Oakland Raiders used the "exclusive rights" franchise tag on defensive end Richard Seymour.
San Diego Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie is being discussed by the team in trade talks in Indianapolis, Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.
San Francisco 49ers general manager Scot McCloughan says the team will impose it's own salary cap in 2010.
Sooner or later, the Seattle Seahawks will need to find a replacement for Walter Jones, writes Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt and general manager Rod Graves signed four-year contract extensions, locking them up through the 2013 season.
The St. Louis Rams are planning to place restricted free agent tenders on safety O.J. Atogwe and offensive tackle Alex Barron, but not guard Mark Setterstrom.
With no picks in the first two rounds, the Chicago Bears have to find hidden gems.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz isn't limiting the team's draft options to defensive tackle with the second overall pick.
With a deep offensive tackle class, the Green Bay Packers may get the player they need.
Minnesota Vikings vice president of player personnel Rick Spielman wasn't going to discuss the contract of kicker Ryan Longwell, who is due a $500,000 roster bonus on March 7.
The New Orleans Saints have extended qualifying offers to thirteen restricted free agents, with a few more still on the agenda.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Bryant will be an unrestricted free agent on March 5.
Finding a backup to nose tackle Jay Ratliff is a priority for the Dallas Cowboys.
Washington Redskins quarterback Colt Brennan faces an uncertain future with the franchise.
Offensive tackle could be an option for the Philadelphia Eagles in this year's draft.
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora met with the front office to discuss his future with the team.
Scouting Combine News and Notes
University of Miami's Jimmy Graham and Florida's Aaron Hernandez are two of the top tight ends in this year's draft.
Florida quarterback Tim Tebow is drawing comparisons to Vince Young.
Notre Dame offensive tackle Sam Young could be an intriguing prospect for the Patriots.
Alabama tight end Colin Peek believes his style of play would "translate seamlessly" into the Patriots' system.
USC center Jeff Byers, who missed two seasons with injuries, was poked and prodded by NFL medical staffs in Indianapolis on Thursday.
Idaho guard Mike Iupati understands the value of being versatile.
The Rams are interested in a pair of in-state products, Missouri offensive lineman Kurtis Gregory and Missouri State tight end Clay Harbor.
Hillsdale offensive tackle Jared Veldheer is enjoying his Combine experience.
Iowa offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga says his medical issues are behind him, reports Greg Bedard of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
LSU running back Trindon Holliday hopes to post a 4.23 time in the 40-yard dash, which would be a Combine record.
Bills head coach Chan Gailey discussed the Georgia Tech players participating in the Combine.
Stanford tight end Jim Dray has spent a lot of his time at the Combine meeting with medical staffs.
Texas Tech guard Brandon Carter is sporting a more conservative look for his job interview at the Combine.
Today's NFL birthdays: Cardinals wide receiver Sean Morey (34), Bills linebacker Chris Draft (34), Bears tight end Fontel Mines (25), Browns running back Jerome Harrison (27), Texans defensive end Tim Jamison (24), Colts defensive end Robert Mathis (29), and Raiders wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey (23).
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Schefter Thinks Rams Take Bradford
During an appearance on ESPN Radio in St. Louis, Adam Schefter said that the St. Louis Rams would choose Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford with the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
Via Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com:
"I would like to record something here, on February 24th. Two months from the draft. And tell you who the number one pick is gonna be right now. On the basis of what I've talked to people around the league [about], everything I've heard. And at some point it's gonna shift to this guy, and I don't know whether it'll be now or late March. It'll probably be after his Pro Day, when he goes through his Pro Day and goes through his workout. Then all of a sudden -- it'll be about a month from now -- we'll start hearing, 'Wow. Would and could the Rams take with the number one overall pick Sam Bradford?'
"And I believe ultimately, when all is said and done, that the Rams' number one pick on April 22nd, two months from now, will be Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford. I'm willing to take all bets on that one right now."
Florio also reports that Schefter took some not-so-subtle digs at ESPN draft experts Mel Kiper and Todd McShay, which due to the ever-increasing snake oil nature in which those two cover the draft, I like to see.
Via Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com:
"I would like to record something here, on February 24th. Two months from the draft. And tell you who the number one pick is gonna be right now. On the basis of what I've talked to people around the league [about], everything I've heard. And at some point it's gonna shift to this guy, and I don't know whether it'll be now or late March. It'll probably be after his Pro Day, when he goes through his Pro Day and goes through his workout. Then all of a sudden -- it'll be about a month from now -- we'll start hearing, 'Wow. Would and could the Rams take with the number one overall pick Sam Bradford?'
"And I believe ultimately, when all is said and done, that the Rams' number one pick on April 22nd, two months from now, will be Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford. I'm willing to take all bets on that one right now."
Florio also reports that Schefter took some not-so-subtle digs at ESPN draft experts Mel Kiper and Todd McShay, which due to the ever-increasing snake oil nature in which those two cover the draft, I like to see.
Raiders Use of Exclusive Tag May Not Be As Crazy As It Sounds
The Oakland Raiders are raising eyebrows for their placement of the "exclusive" franchise tag on Richard Seymour.
By opting to not use the "non-exclusive" tag, which would pay Seymour $12.398 million dollars in 2010, Seymour's fully guaranteed base salary this will now be the average of the Top 5 salaries among NFL defensive ends on April 15, provided the two sides don't reach a long-term contract agreement.
The $12.398 million dollar cost of the "non-exclusive" franchise tag was the average of Top 5 defensive end salaries from 2009. The $16.683 million dollars that Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers made last season elevated that figure, and Peppers was followed by Minnesota's Jared Allen ($14.5M), Indianapolis' Dwight Freeney ($11.22M), San Francisco's Justin Smith ($10.283M), and Will Smith ($9.27M) of the New Orleans Saints.
Freeney and Allen are joined by Houston Texans defensive end Mario Williams in the 8-digit salary club this year, but as of right now, only Atlanta's John Abraham has a cap number exceeding $9M. The two defensive ends after Abraham, Buffalo's Aaron Schobel and Seattle's Patrick Kerney, may either retire (Schobel) or be released (Kerney), two transactions that would appear to drive down the average of the Top 5 DE salaries on April 15.
Peppers may very well have a cap figure over $10 million dollars in 2009, but even with his contract, the average of the Top 5 defensive end salaries could be up to $1M less than the $12.398 million dollar figure and the Raiders have retained exclusive negotiating rights with Seymour, who wasn't going to attract the attention of other teams anyway, not when it would cost two first-round picks to sign him away from Oakland.
As much as everyone loves mocking Al Davis, this probably wasn't one of the Top 5 craziest things he's done this week.
By opting to not use the "non-exclusive" tag, which would pay Seymour $12.398 million dollars in 2010, Seymour's fully guaranteed base salary this will now be the average of the Top 5 salaries among NFL defensive ends on April 15, provided the two sides don't reach a long-term contract agreement.
The $12.398 million dollar cost of the "non-exclusive" franchise tag was the average of Top 5 defensive end salaries from 2009. The $16.683 million dollars that Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers made last season elevated that figure, and Peppers was followed by Minnesota's Jared Allen ($14.5M), Indianapolis' Dwight Freeney ($11.22M), San Francisco's Justin Smith ($10.283M), and Will Smith ($9.27M) of the New Orleans Saints.
Freeney and Allen are joined by Houston Texans defensive end Mario Williams in the 8-digit salary club this year, but as of right now, only Atlanta's John Abraham has a cap number exceeding $9M. The two defensive ends after Abraham, Buffalo's Aaron Schobel and Seattle's Patrick Kerney, may either retire (Schobel) or be released (Kerney), two transactions that would appear to drive down the average of the Top 5 DE salaries on April 15.
Peppers may very well have a cap figure over $10 million dollars in 2009, but even with his contract, the average of the Top 5 defensive end salaries could be up to $1M less than the $12.398 million dollar figure and the Raiders have retained exclusive negotiating rights with Seymour, who wasn't going to attract the attention of other teams anyway, not when it would cost two first-round picks to sign him away from Oakland.
As much as everyone loves mocking Al Davis, this probably wasn't one of the Top 5 craziest things he's done this week.
Notre Dame OT Sam Young Patterned Game After Matt Light
Notre Dame offensive tackle Sam Young started 50 games for the Charlie Weis-coached Fighting Irish, and in addition to Jake Long and Joe Thomas, patterned his game after New England Patriots right tackle Matt Light.
"Coach Weis had a lot of film from the Patriots," Young said at the Combine on Thursday. "We'd watch that sometimes trying to figure out how plays were supposed to be run, or if he was trying to put in a new play. I kind of took it from there, and would get film from coach White, who was one of the GAs (graduate assistants) at the time."
And what did Young pick up on from watching Light?
"Just the way he (Light) uses his hands, some of the techniques on that Patriots o-line," Young said. "I think it was the 2003 film that we were watching. Some of those techniques were unbelievable. There are some things in the pro game that sometimes don't get taught on the collegiate level.
"Really just some of the techniques. It's unbelievable what you can take away from film, how there are mismatches. A guy may do something one play and then the guy is going to counter it the next. In college it's more just butting heads. I took a lot from it and I've tried to incorporate into my game."
Young, who measured at 6-7 1/2 and weighed 316 pounds, will participate in all the drills at the Combine, which for linemen will be on Saturday.
"That's why I came here," Young said. "To be able to put myself on display against the best of the best."
"Coach Weis had a lot of film from the Patriots," Young said at the Combine on Thursday. "We'd watch that sometimes trying to figure out how plays were supposed to be run, or if he was trying to put in a new play. I kind of took it from there, and would get film from coach White, who was one of the GAs (graduate assistants) at the time."
And what did Young pick up on from watching Light?
"Just the way he (Light) uses his hands, some of the techniques on that Patriots o-line," Young said. "I think it was the 2003 film that we were watching. Some of those techniques were unbelievable. There are some things in the pro game that sometimes don't get taught on the collegiate level.
"Really just some of the techniques. It's unbelievable what you can take away from film, how there are mismatches. A guy may do something one play and then the guy is going to counter it the next. In college it's more just butting heads. I took a lot from it and I've tried to incorporate into my game."
Young, who measured at 6-7 1/2 and weighed 316 pounds, will participate in all the drills at the Combine, which for linemen will be on Saturday.
"That's why I came here," Young said. "To be able to put myself on display against the best of the best."
Six NFL Players Receive Franchise Tag
The NFL's 4pm ET deadline to use the franchise tag has passed, and six players received the tag this off-season:
Green Bay Packers nose tackle Ryan Pickett
New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork
Oakland Raiders defensive end Richard Seymour*
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Jeff Reed
San Francisco 49ers nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin
Seattle Seahawks kicker Olindo Mare
*-Exclusive rights free agent, which means Seymour will be paid the average of the top 5 salaries at his position as of April 15.
Green Bay Packers nose tackle Ryan Pickett
New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork
Oakland Raiders defensive end Richard Seymour*
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Jeff Reed
San Francisco 49ers nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin
Seattle Seahawks kicker Olindo Mare
*-Exclusive rights free agent, which means Seymour will be paid the average of the top 5 salaries at his position as of April 15.
Cardinals Extend Contracts of Graves, Whisenhunt
After a three-year stretch where the Arizona Cardinals have gone 27-21, won two NFC West titles, and made the franchise's first trip to the Super Bowl, general manager Rod Graves and head coach Ken Whisenhunt have agreed to contract extensions that will extend through the 2013 season.
"The outstanding work of these two individuals has been a vital part of the organization’s accomplishments," Cardinals president Michael Bidwill said in a statement released by the team. "Rod and his staff have done an exceptional job in evaluating talent and building a roster that will produce sustained success. Obviously Ken Whisenhunt’s achievements as a head coach speak for themselves.
"What the team has accomplished in his three seasons as head coach is a testament to the talent and hard work of Ken and his assistant coaches. We couldn’t be more excited that both Rod and Ken will continue to lead the team for the foreseeable future and build upon the foundation that they helped to establish."
Whisenhunt, who has an option for 2014, is the Cardinals head coach to receive a contract extension since the franchise move to Arizona from St. Louis 21 years ago.
"The outstanding work of these two individuals has been a vital part of the organization’s accomplishments," Cardinals president Michael Bidwill said in a statement released by the team. "Rod and his staff have done an exceptional job in evaluating talent and building a roster that will produce sustained success. Obviously Ken Whisenhunt’s achievements as a head coach speak for themselves.
"What the team has accomplished in his three seasons as head coach is a testament to the talent and hard work of Ken and his assistant coaches. We couldn’t be more excited that both Rod and Ken will continue to lead the team for the foreseeable future and build upon the foundation that they helped to establish."
Whisenhunt, who has an option for 2014, is the Cardinals head coach to receive a contract extension since the franchise move to Arizona from St. Louis 21 years ago.
Four NFL Pro Bowlers to Visit US Troops in Southwest Asia
San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis, Cleveland Browns left tackle Joe Thomas, Houston Texans defensive end Mario Williams, and Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten will spend a week visiting with U.S. troops at military bases in Southwest Asia as part of the annual NFL-USO program.
"I am thrilled to be able to represent the NFL on the USO tour," said Thomas. "The men and women of our Armed Forces do a tremendous service for this country and I am very excited to be able to go over there and give back, and let them know how appreciative everyone here is for the job that they do."
Last off-season, Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen, New York Giants linebacker Danny Clark, Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, and then-St. Louis Rams linebacker Will Witherspoon visited troops in Kuwait and Iraq, as did current and former NFL head coaches Tom Coughlin, Bill Cowher, Jeff Fisher, Jon Gruden, and John Harbaugh.
"I am thrilled to be able to represent the NFL on the USO tour," said Thomas. "The men and women of our Armed Forces do a tremendous service for this country and I am very excited to be able to go over there and give back, and let them know how appreciative everyone here is for the job that they do."
Last off-season, Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen, New York Giants linebacker Danny Clark, Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, and then-St. Louis Rams linebacker Will Witherspoon visited troops in Kuwait and Iraq, as did current and former NFL head coaches Tom Coughlin, Bill Cowher, Jeff Fisher, Jon Gruden, and John Harbaugh.
Buccaneers WR Antonio Bryant Will Hit Free Agency
Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris said that wide receiver Antonio Bryant's career with the franchise is over on Thursday, Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times reports.
"Antonio missed a significant amount of time last year,'' Morris said. "And I'm not going to blame Antonio, but really, right now we're going in a young direction. We're going to choose to move on."
Bryant had a career year in 2008, catching 83 passes for 1,248 yards and 7 touchdowns in his first season with the Buccaneers, who brought him back under the one-year franchise tag in 2009, which was worth $9.844 million dollars.
Injuries slowed Bryant last season, as did the Buccaneers using three different starting quarterbacks. As a result, his production dipped to just 39 catches for 600 yards and four touchdowns.
"He's going to go out and test his free agent market," Morris added."Obviously, we won't do the (franchise) tag and all that kind of stuff. We don't need to do that. It's going to be our decision. We're going our direction. We're going a different and we wish nothing but the best of luck to Antonio. We're very proud of what he was able to do here in Tampa. He had a very productive year in 2008. In 2009, it was a rough year for him personally. He's a good football player. We've got to make that decision to move on and off we go."
With Bryant moving on, and veterans Maurice Stovall and Mark Bradley restricted free agents, the Buccaneers may be interested in Oklahoma State wide receiver Dez Bryant, who has been described as a more explosive Michael Crabtree, in this year's draft. Thought they'd most likely wish to move down from the #3 spot to do so.
"Antonio missed a significant amount of time last year,'' Morris said. "And I'm not going to blame Antonio, but really, right now we're going in a young direction. We're going to choose to move on."
Bryant had a career year in 2008, catching 83 passes for 1,248 yards and 7 touchdowns in his first season with the Buccaneers, who brought him back under the one-year franchise tag in 2009, which was worth $9.844 million dollars.
Injuries slowed Bryant last season, as did the Buccaneers using three different starting quarterbacks. As a result, his production dipped to just 39 catches for 600 yards and four touchdowns.
"He's going to go out and test his free agent market," Morris added."Obviously, we won't do the (franchise) tag and all that kind of stuff. We don't need to do that. It's going to be our decision. We're going our direction. We're going a different and we wish nothing but the best of luck to Antonio. We're very proud of what he was able to do here in Tampa. He had a very productive year in 2008. In 2009, it was a rough year for him personally. He's a good football player. We've got to make that decision to move on and off we go."
With Bryant moving on, and veterans Maurice Stovall and Mark Bradley restricted free agents, the Buccaneers may be interested in Oklahoma State wide receiver Dez Bryant, who has been described as a more explosive Michael Crabtree, in this year's draft. Thought they'd most likely wish to move down from the #3 spot to do so.
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