Police in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania have issued a release stating that, contrary to previous reports, New York Jets wide receiver Santonio Holmes was not escorted by police after a Newark-to-Pittsburgh landed at Pittsburgh International Airport.
"As previously reported, Santanio Holmes was not removed from any airplane (4/29/2010). He was asked to remove his Ipod (at one point), in which he complied. There's no further information to report."
So as Jets head coach Rex Ryan said earlier on Friday, this issue has been blown way out of proportion.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Eagles' Abiamiri Had Microfracture Surgery
This off-season, the Philadelphia Eagles traded for Darryl Tapp, traded up in the first round to draft Michigan defensive end Brandon Graham, used a third-round pick on University of Washington defensive end Daniel Te'o-Nesheim, and a fifth-round pick on Clemson defensive end Ricky Sapp.
Why the Eagles pumped so many resources into stocking the defensive end position may have become a little clearer today, as it was disclosed that Eagles defensive end Victor Abiamiri had microfracture surgery on his left knee this off-season, and is unlikely to be ready for the start of the 2010 season.
"I'll be all right," Abiamiri said on Friday. "I'm not too worried about it ... It's a tough process to go through ... The amount of time it takes to heal up is pretty extensive."
Microfracture surgery involves the surgeon using a small pointed tool called an awl to make very small holes (microfractures) in the bone near the damaged cartilage, which prompts the bone to release the cells in your bones that build new cartilage. As Les Bowen of the Philadelphia Daily News notes, it's often not a permanent fix.
Abiamiri, a second-round pick (57th overall) out of Notre Dame in 2007, has 30 tackles and 4 quarterback sacks in 29 games in his three seasons with the Eagles.
Why the Eagles pumped so many resources into stocking the defensive end position may have become a little clearer today, as it was disclosed that Eagles defensive end Victor Abiamiri had microfracture surgery on his left knee this off-season, and is unlikely to be ready for the start of the 2010 season.
"I'll be all right," Abiamiri said on Friday. "I'm not too worried about it ... It's a tough process to go through ... The amount of time it takes to heal up is pretty extensive."
Microfracture surgery involves the surgeon using a small pointed tool called an awl to make very small holes (microfractures) in the bone near the damaged cartilage, which prompts the bone to release the cells in your bones that build new cartilage. As Les Bowen of the Philadelphia Daily News notes, it's often not a permanent fix.
Abiamiri, a second-round pick (57th overall) out of Notre Dame in 2007, has 30 tackles and 4 quarterback sacks in 29 games in his three seasons with the Eagles.
49ers Sign LB Brandon Long
The San Francisco 49ers announced that they have signed linebacker Brandon Long to a two-year contract.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Long had originally agreed to terms with the 49ers last April after not being selected in the 2009 NFL Draft, but he failed his physical due to a foot injury.
The 6-4, 250-pound Long played defensive end at Michigan State, and the part-time starter totaled 66 tackles and 7.5 quarterback sacks during his career with the Spartans.
Long was participating in the 49ers' mini-camp, which got underway today, on a tryout basis.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Long had originally agreed to terms with the 49ers last April after not being selected in the 2009 NFL Draft, but he failed his physical due to a foot injury.
The 6-4, 250-pound Long played defensive end at Michigan State, and the part-time starter totaled 66 tackles and 7.5 quarterback sacks during his career with the Spartans.
Long was participating in the 49ers' mini-camp, which got underway today, on a tryout basis.
Man Convicted of Killing Darrent Williams Sentenced to Life in Prison
Willie Clark, the man convicted of killing Denver Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole, the Denver Post reports.
Clark, 26, was also sentenced to 1,152 years in prison for 16 counts of attempted murder.
"Mr. Clark, I will simply say from where I sit, barring a retrial of this issue, you are spending your life in prison and you too can be a good person and make a change and make a difference with your life however it turns out," Judge Christina M. Habas said.
Clark was convicted on March 11 of first-degree murder and 16 counts of attempted first-degree murder for firing a gun into Williams' stretch Hummer outside a Denver nightclub in the early morning hours of January 1, 2007.
Clark, 26, was also sentenced to 1,152 years in prison for 16 counts of attempted murder.
"Mr. Clark, I will simply say from where I sit, barring a retrial of this issue, you are spending your life in prison and you too can be a good person and make a change and make a difference with your life however it turns out," Judge Christina M. Habas said.
Clark was convicted on March 11 of first-degree murder and 16 counts of attempted first-degree murder for firing a gun into Williams' stretch Hummer outside a Denver nightclub in the early morning hours of January 1, 2007.
Rams QB Sam Bradford's First Practice "Was A Blast"
St. Louis Rams first-round quarterback Sam Bradford had a blast in his first practice as an NFL quarterback, Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
"It was fun out there today," the first overall pick of the 2010 NFL Draft said. "It’s been a long time since I’ve got to play football. Just getting out there, getting in the huddle, running plays . . . I thought it was a blast."
The main question mark Bradford was the status of his throwing shoulder, which he had surgery on last October.
"I made a wide variety of throws today, some down-field throws, some intermediate throws, some quick throws. And they all felt good," said Bradford. "The arm feels great; it’s not tired at all. So I’m really happy with the way the shoulder feels right now."
Bradford's first pass was a 15-yard out route that was hauled in by sixth-round tight end Fendi Onobun, Coats reports.
"It was fun out there today," the first overall pick of the 2010 NFL Draft said. "It’s been a long time since I’ve got to play football. Just getting out there, getting in the huddle, running plays . . . I thought it was a blast."
The main question mark Bradford was the status of his throwing shoulder, which he had surgery on last October.
"I made a wide variety of throws today, some down-field throws, some intermediate throws, some quick throws. And they all felt good," said Bradford. "The arm feels great; it’s not tired at all. So I’m really happy with the way the shoulder feels right now."
Bradford's first pass was a 15-yard out route that was hauled in by sixth-round tight end Fendi Onobun, Coats reports.
Jets Speak to Laveranues Coles' Agent
Manish Mehta of the Newark Star-Ledger reports the New York Jets have been in contact with the agent for free agent wide receiver Laveranues Coles.
No deal is imminent, and talks are reportedly in the preliminary stages, but Mehta suggests that it's an "interested twist" to the recent report that Jets wide receiver Santonio Holmes, who is already facing a four-game suspension, was escorted off a Newark-to-Pittsburgh flight on Thursday night for failing to comply with flight regulations.
Holmes refused to turn off his i-Pod while his flight was making its descent into Pittsburgh International Airport.
Coles was a third-round pick (78th overall) by the Jets in 2000 NFL Draft, and the former Florida State Seminole caught 459 passes for 5,941 yards and 37 touchdowns in seven seasons, divided between two stints, with New York.
Overall, Coles has caught 674 passes for 8,609 yards and 49 touchdowns.
Released by the Jets for salary cap reasons following the 2008 season, Coles caught 43 passes for 514 yards and 5 touchdowns for the Cincinnati Bengals last season.
No deal is imminent, and talks are reportedly in the preliminary stages, but Mehta suggests that it's an "interested twist" to the recent report that Jets wide receiver Santonio Holmes, who is already facing a four-game suspension, was escorted off a Newark-to-Pittsburgh flight on Thursday night for failing to comply with flight regulations.
Holmes refused to turn off his i-Pod while his flight was making its descent into Pittsburgh International Airport.
Coles was a third-round pick (78th overall) by the Jets in 2000 NFL Draft, and the former Florida State Seminole caught 459 passes for 5,941 yards and 37 touchdowns in seven seasons, divided between two stints, with New York.
Overall, Coles has caught 674 passes for 8,609 yards and 49 touchdowns.
Released by the Jets for salary cap reasons following the 2008 season, Coles caught 43 passes for 514 yards and 5 touchdowns for the Cincinnati Bengals last season.
Seahawks Reach One-Year Deal With Lawyer Milloy
The Seattle Seahawks have reached agreement on a one-year deal with veteran safety Lawyer Milloy, Jason LaCanfora of the NFL Network reports.
Milloy, 36, went to high school in Tacoma, Washington, and played his college ball at the University of Washington.
A second-round pick (36th overall) by the New England Patriots in 1996, Milloy went two of his four Pro Bowls in his career while playing for new Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll. Milloy spent the first seven years of his 14 seasons in the NFL in New England, captaining a a Patriots defense that led the way to the first Super Bowl in franchise history, before spending three seasons with both the Buffalo Bills (2003-05) and Atlanta Falcons (2006-08).
The Seahawks signed Milloy to a one-year deal last September. In 16 games, Milloy totaled 34 tackles and a pair of pass break-ups.
Milloy adds veteran depth at safety to a Seahawks roster that is projected to start first-round pick Earl Thomas and Jordan Babineaux this season.
Milloy, 36, went to high school in Tacoma, Washington, and played his college ball at the University of Washington.
A second-round pick (36th overall) by the New England Patriots in 1996, Milloy went two of his four Pro Bowls in his career while playing for new Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll. Milloy spent the first seven years of his 14 seasons in the NFL in New England, captaining a a Patriots defense that led the way to the first Super Bowl in franchise history, before spending three seasons with both the Buffalo Bills (2003-05) and Atlanta Falcons (2006-08).
The Seahawks signed Milloy to a one-year deal last September. In 16 games, Milloy totaled 34 tackles and a pair of pass break-ups.
Milloy adds veteran depth at safety to a Seahawks roster that is projected to start first-round pick Earl Thomas and Jordan Babineaux this season.
Bears Hire Tim Ruskell
The Chicago Bears announced that they have hired Tim Ruskell to be their next Director of Player Personnel.
Ruskell essentially fills a position that was previously held by Bobby DePaul, who was fired by the Bears in February.
Bears general manager Jerry Angelo has a lengthy relationship with Ruskell, dating back to 1987, when both entered the Tampa Bay Buccaneers front office. Angelo was the Director of Player Personnel for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1987-2000 before becoming the Bears' general manager in 2001. Ruskell replaced Angelo as the Buccaneers' Director of Player Personnel before following Rick McKay to the Atlanta Falcons in 2004.
Ruskell was the Seattle Seahawks president from 2005 until last December, when he tendered his resignation after being informed that his contract would not be renewed following the 2009 season.
Ruskell essentially fills a position that was previously held by Bobby DePaul, who was fired by the Bears in February.
Bears general manager Jerry Angelo has a lengthy relationship with Ruskell, dating back to 1987, when both entered the Tampa Bay Buccaneers front office. Angelo was the Director of Player Personnel for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1987-2000 before becoming the Bears' general manager in 2001. Ruskell replaced Angelo as the Buccaneers' Director of Player Personnel before following Rick McKay to the Atlanta Falcons in 2004.
Ruskell was the Seattle Seahawks president from 2005 until last December, when he tendered his resignation after being informed that his contract would not be renewed following the 2009 season.
Favre Clarifies Ankle Status
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre took a few moments from working the land to clarify the comments he made to ESPN's Ed Werder about his ankle.
"I want to add to the information provided in the article that was published this morning on ESPN’s website. Given the reaction to the article, and the typical conclusion jumping, I thought I’d clarify a few things.
While my ankle has been bothering me, the injury is not debilitating. For example, I’m able to work around my property without any problems. Sure – certain exercises cause some ankle pain, but it’s nothing that I haven’t experienced (or played with) before. In fact, many people don’t realize that I injured my ankle before the NFC Championship game. I’ve had surgery on this ankle twice before, and I’ve played with the pain before. The hits I took throughout the 2009 season, including the Saints game, just added to the ankle pain and likely caused some bone spurs.
I don’t believe major surgery on the ankle would be required for me to return in 2010. I’ve consulted with Dr. Andrews on the phone, and a relatively minor procedure could be done to improve the dexterity of the ankle, and to relieve the pain. I’ve put up with pain worse than this in my career, and I didn’t want anyone to assume that the possibility of surgery was the sole factor that would determine whether I return or not. Some people reacting to the ESPN story have made this assumption. I don’t blame them for doing so, given that the term “surgery” often covers a variety of procedures, some more complex than others.
The ankle pain is a factor, but one of many factors that I’ll need to consider in making my decision. Other factors include the input of my family, and the wonderful experience that I had last year with the Vikings.
-- Brett Favre"
"I want to add to the information provided in the article that was published this morning on ESPN’s website. Given the reaction to the article, and the typical conclusion jumping, I thought I’d clarify a few things.
While my ankle has been bothering me, the injury is not debilitating. For example, I’m able to work around my property without any problems. Sure – certain exercises cause some ankle pain, but it’s nothing that I haven’t experienced (or played with) before. In fact, many people don’t realize that I injured my ankle before the NFC Championship game. I’ve had surgery on this ankle twice before, and I’ve played with the pain before. The hits I took throughout the 2009 season, including the Saints game, just added to the ankle pain and likely caused some bone spurs.
I don’t believe major surgery on the ankle would be required for me to return in 2010. I’ve consulted with Dr. Andrews on the phone, and a relatively minor procedure could be done to improve the dexterity of the ankle, and to relieve the pain. I’ve put up with pain worse than this in my career, and I didn’t want anyone to assume that the possibility of surgery was the sole factor that would determine whether I return or not. Some people reacting to the ESPN story have made this assumption. I don’t blame them for doing so, given that the term “surgery” often covers a variety of procedures, some more complex than others.
The ankle pain is a factor, but one of many factors that I’ll need to consider in making my decision. Other factors include the input of my family, and the wonderful experience that I had last year with the Vikings.
-- Brett Favre"
Seahawks WR Deion Branch Had Knee Scoped
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Deion Branch underwent arthroscopic knee surgery this off-season and will not participate in the team's three-day mini-camp, Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times reports.
O'Neil adds that this is the third procedure Branch has had on his left knee, beginning with ACL replacement surgery after the 2007 season.
Branch, who turns 31 in July, is entering the fifth (gasp!) year of a six-year, $39.5 million dollar contract extension, which will pay him $5.47 million dollars in base salary in 2010, provided he's on the 53-man roster in Week 1. Branch has appeared in 47 of a possible 62 games for the Seahawks, and has caught 177 passes for 2,235 yards (12.6 avg) and 14 touchdowns. Branch added 8 receptions for 96 yards in three playoff games.
During his 8-year career, which began as a second-round pick (65th overall) out of Louisville by the Patriots, Branch has 390 receptions for 4,979 yards and 28 touchdowns. Branch was also named the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl XXXVIIII after catching 11 passes for 133 yards in the Patriots’ 24-21 win over the Philadelphia Eagles.
O'Neil adds that this is the third procedure Branch has had on his left knee, beginning with ACL replacement surgery after the 2007 season.
Branch, who turns 31 in July, is entering the fifth (gasp!) year of a six-year, $39.5 million dollar contract extension, which will pay him $5.47 million dollars in base salary in 2010, provided he's on the 53-man roster in Week 1. Branch has appeared in 47 of a possible 62 games for the Seahawks, and has caught 177 passes for 2,235 yards (12.6 avg) and 14 touchdowns. Branch added 8 receptions for 96 yards in three playoff games.
During his 8-year career, which began as a second-round pick (65th overall) out of Louisville by the Patriots, Branch has 390 receptions for 4,979 yards and 28 touchdowns. Branch was also named the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl XXXVIIII after catching 11 passes for 133 yards in the Patriots’ 24-21 win over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Panthers QB Jimmy Clausen Runs Errands for Steve Smith
Charles Chandler of the Charlotte Observer reports that before Carolina Panthers second-round quarterback Jimmy Clausen hopped on a flight from Los Angeles to Charlotte for this weekend's mini-camp, he had to run an errand for Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith.
Take in the mail? Pick up some dry cleaning? Nope, soda.
More specifically, Cactus Cooler orange and pineapple-flavored soda, which is found only in California and Arizona.
"Steve seems like a great guy," Clausen said. "He's obviously a great player."
And by successfully appeasing his top veteran wide receiver, Clausen's NFL career is already off to a good start.
Take in the mail? Pick up some dry cleaning? Nope, soda.
More specifically, Cactus Cooler orange and pineapple-flavored soda, which is found only in California and Arizona.
"Steve seems like a great guy," Clausen said. "He's obviously a great player."
And by successfully appeasing his top veteran wide receiver, Clausen's NFL career is already off to a good start.
Dez Bryant Struggling Through First Workout With Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys first-round wide receiver Dez Bryant struggled to get through the first of the Cowboys' two workouts scheduled for today, David Moore of the Dallas Morning News reports.
"He's caught just about everything thrown his way, including a spectacular, one-handed grab with his left hand on a ball thrown on a comeback route. It looked like he stabbed his arm out to catch a nerf ball, not a football.Bryant has been described elsewhere as appearing "out of shape" today, which means not much has changed about his physical condition since his pro day in Lufkin, Texas one month ago. 24 of the 32 NFL teams scheduled their post-draft rookie mini-camps for this weekend, and Bryant's inability to get in adequate enough shape to make it through the first workout will not do much to silence those who questioned his work ethic during the draft process.
But after almost every route, Bryant has walked off to the side of the field to rest. After one play he took off his helmet, used it to prop himself up and bent down on one knee for nearly a minute. He would constantly take his helmet off and wipe his face with a towel during drills when the other rookies would not.
At one point, Wade Phillips said, 'Come on, 88' from the other side of the field."
Bears DE Mark Anderson Signs RFA Tender
Chicago Bears restricted free agent defensive end Mark Anderson has signed his one-year tender, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.
Anderson, a fifth-round pick (159th overall) out of Alabama in 2005, was tendered the "Second Round" level, which carries a $1.759 million dollar base salary for 2010.
Anderson burst onto the scene as a rookie, earning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month honors after posting six quarterback sacks in the month of October. Anderson was also runner-up to Houston Texans linebacker Demeco Ryans in NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting in 2006.
A starter in 17 of his 62 games with the Bears, Anderson has amassed 105 tackles, including 21.5 quarterback sacks, and 5 forced fumbles.
With Anderson signing his tender, safety Danieal Manning is the lone unsigned Bears restricted free agent.
Anderson, a fifth-round pick (159th overall) out of Alabama in 2005, was tendered the "Second Round" level, which carries a $1.759 million dollar base salary for 2010.
Anderson burst onto the scene as a rookie, earning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month honors after posting six quarterback sacks in the month of October. Anderson was also runner-up to Houston Texans linebacker Demeco Ryans in NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting in 2006.
A starter in 17 of his 62 games with the Bears, Anderson has amassed 105 tackles, including 21.5 quarterback sacks, and 5 forced fumbles.
With Anderson signing his tender, safety Danieal Manning is the lone unsigned Bears restricted free agent.
Jets WR Santonio Holmes Escorted Off Plane
WPXI in Pittsburgh reports New York Jets wide receiver Santonio Holmes was escorted off a plane Thursday night at Pittsburgh International Airport after becoming a "disruptive passenger".
Holmes was not arrested, investigators told Renee Kaminski, and the Jets announced that the reason Holmes was escorted off the plane was because he did not turn off his i-Pod on the flight's descent into Pittsburgh International Airport. Holmes' flight originated in Newark, New Jersey.
Traded to the Jets earlier this month, Holmes has already been suspended by the National Football League for the first four games of the 2010 regular season.
Holmes was not arrested, investigators told Renee Kaminski, and the Jets announced that the reason Holmes was escorted off the plane was because he did not turn off his i-Pod on the flight's descent into Pittsburgh International Airport. Holmes' flight originated in Newark, New Jersey.
Traded to the Jets earlier this month, Holmes has already been suspended by the National Football League for the first four games of the 2010 regular season.
Dolphins Telling Their Side of the Jeff Ireland/Dez Bryant Story
Dan LeBetard posted on Twitter what the Miami Dolphins' version of the conversation between Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland and Dez Bryant went like.
"Here's dolphins side: what does dad do? Pimp. Mom? Works for dad. She's a prostitute? No she helps him with other stuff.", LeBatard tweeted.
Dan Levy of The Sporting News confirms through his contacts that that is how the conversation went, according to the Dolphins, anyway. Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com wonders why Dolphins didn't make general manager Jeff Ireland accessible to Mike Silver of Yahoo! Sports, and why Ireland felt the need to personally apologize to Bryant once the story broke.
Maybe the Dolphins can hire Brandon Marshall's public relations staff?
"Here's dolphins side: what does dad do? Pimp. Mom? Works for dad. She's a prostitute? No she helps him with other stuff.", LeBatard tweeted.
Dan Levy of The Sporting News confirms through his contacts that that is how the conversation went, according to the Dolphins, anyway. Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com wonders why Dolphins didn't make general manager Jeff Ireland accessible to Mike Silver of Yahoo! Sports, and why Ireland felt the need to personally apologize to Bryant once the story broke.
Maybe the Dolphins can hire Brandon Marshall's public relations staff?
Favre Needs Ankle Surgery
ESPN's Ed Werder reports that Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre has been informed that he will need to undergo ankle surgery in order to play football in the 2010 season.
Favre injured the ankle during the 2009 NFC Championship Game in January, and Steve Mariucci said recently that Favre was "having issues" bouncing back from that injury. Rick Cleveland of The Clarion-Ledger showed pictures of Favre's hamstring and ankle in the days after that game, and Favre's ankle was as purple as a Vikings' helmet.
Favre told Werder that his ankle has remained swollen and painful, and the 40-year old quartebrack has consulted with Dr. James Andrews, who says surgery is unavoidable if Favre plans to continue his NFL career.
"To play again, I would need the surgery," Favre said in an e-mail to Werder. "This decision would be easy if not for my teammates, and the fans and the entire Vikings' staff."
The Vikings have placed no pressure on Favre to return this off-season, and it's reasonable to assume the Vikings' front office and coaching staff been kept abreast of Favre's medical situation. Therefore it's reasonable to deduce that, at this point in the off-season, the timetable for recovery from a procedure on Favre's ankle would not threaten his availability for the start of the 2010 regular season.
Favre injured the ankle during the 2009 NFC Championship Game in January, and Steve Mariucci said recently that Favre was "having issues" bouncing back from that injury. Rick Cleveland of The Clarion-Ledger showed pictures of Favre's hamstring and ankle in the days after that game, and Favre's ankle was as purple as a Vikings' helmet.
Favre told Werder that his ankle has remained swollen and painful, and the 40-year old quartebrack has consulted with Dr. James Andrews, who says surgery is unavoidable if Favre plans to continue his NFL career.
"To play again, I would need the surgery," Favre said in an e-mail to Werder. "This decision would be easy if not for my teammates, and the fans and the entire Vikings' staff."
The Vikings have placed no pressure on Favre to return this off-season, and it's reasonable to assume the Vikings' front office and coaching staff been kept abreast of Favre's medical situation. Therefore it's reasonable to deduce that, at this point in the off-season, the timetable for recovery from a procedure on Favre's ankle would not threaten his availability for the start of the 2010 regular season.
Warren Sapp to Work With Bucs' McCoy, Price
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers used their first two picks in the 2010 NFL Draft--the 3rd and 35th overall selections--on defensive tackles Gerald McCoy (Oklahoma) and Brian Price (UCLA).
Former Buccaneers defensive tackle Warren Sapp, a seven-time Pro Bowler now working for the NFL Network, plans on giving them a hand.
"There's no way (they) can be in Tampa and me not help both these kids out," Sapp told Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times.
"He's (McCoy) about to go to a whole another level and will be running into people he will never see on a college level," Sapp said. "The best thing he has got going for him is another dude beside him. When you're by yourself and asked to climb Mount Everest with one tool bag, it's tough.
"(Price is) all giddy and gung ho. They're just two lovable kids right now, and we'll see if they get a job done."
McCoy and Price are Buccaneers general manager Mark Domenik's building blocks to improve a run defense that ranked 32nd in the National Football League last season. Both are expected to start immediately, with McCoy, a 6-4, 295-pound penetrating tackle not unlike Sapp, as the "3" technique, and the more stout Price (6-1, 303) occupying blockers at the "1" technique position.
Former Buccaneers defensive tackle Warren Sapp, a seven-time Pro Bowler now working for the NFL Network, plans on giving them a hand.
"There's no way (they) can be in Tampa and me not help both these kids out," Sapp told Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times.
"He's (McCoy) about to go to a whole another level and will be running into people he will never see on a college level," Sapp said. "The best thing he has got going for him is another dude beside him. When you're by yourself and asked to climb Mount Everest with one tool bag, it's tough.
"(Price is) all giddy and gung ho. They're just two lovable kids right now, and we'll see if they get a job done."
McCoy and Price are Buccaneers general manager Mark Domenik's building blocks to improve a run defense that ranked 32nd in the National Football League last season. Both are expected to start immediately, with McCoy, a 6-4, 295-pound penetrating tackle not unlike Sapp, as the "3" technique, and the more stout Price (6-1, 303) occupying blockers at the "1" technique position.
NFL News and Notes - April 30, 2010
Busy day in the NFL, as Seattle Seahawks Hall of Fame left tackle Walter Jones will announce his retirement at 12pm PT, New York Giants punter Jeff Feagles will announce his retirement, and 24 of the 32 NFL teams open a mini-camp today, which may prompt teams to release some high-priced veterans before they hit the field.
NFL News and Notes
Shalise Manza Young of the Boston Globe profiles New England Patriots first-round cornerback Devin McCourty.
The Buffalo Bills announced the signing of six undrafted free agents on Thursday.
New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez has some advice for fourth-round running back Joe McKnight, his former teammate at USC.
With the Miami Dolphins set to open mini-camp today, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel breaks down the Dolphins' rookie class.
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis and cornerback Dominique Foxworth delivered an anti-steroid message to 700 high schoolers on Thursday.
Pittsburgh Steelers second-round linebacker Jason Worilds patterns his game after James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley.
Cleveland Browns third-round quarterback Colt McCoy will do fine in the NFL, Mack Brown, McCoy's college coach, says.
The Cincinnati Bengals claimed defensive back DeAngelo Willingham off waivers from the Seattle Seahawks.
Before he can practice, Tennessee Titans second-year wide receiver Kenny Britt must first get in shape, reports Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
Free agent safety Darren Sharper left a visit with the Jacksonville Jaguars without a contract offer.
Richard Justice of the Houston Chronicle looks at how Houston Texans owner Bob McNair has impacted the Houston community.
Undrafted University of Massachusetts wide receiver Jeremy Horne has a tryout with the Kansas City Chiefs this weekend.
Free agent linebacker Nick Greisen re-signed with the Denver Broncos.
The San Diego Chargers announced the signing of kicker Nick Novak on Thursday.
Oakland Raiders third- and fourth-round offensive tackles Jared Veldheer and Bruce Campbell will have opportunities to earn spots on the offensive line this season.
Arizona Cardinals guard Alan Faneca is expected to start at left guard.
San Francisco 49ers acting general manager Trent Baalke discussed the team's draft on Thursday.
Seattle Seahawks left tackle Walter Jones is retiring after 13-year career worthy of first-ballot induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
St. Louis Rams sixth-round tight end Fendi Onobun is a project with a lot of upside, writes Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
New Orleans Saints second-round offensive tackle Charles Brown's draft stock may have fallen due to medical red flags, reports James Varney of the Times-Picayune.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers first- and second-round defensive tackles Gerald McCoy and Brian Price will get some help from Warren Sapp.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution looks at the Atlanta Falcons three-deep depth chart.
Charles Chandler of the Charlotte Observer has the 10 things to watch at the Carolina Panthers three-day mini-camp.
Free agent wide receiver Bobby Wade has reached a one-year deal with the Washington Redskins.
As first reported by Adam Caplan of Scout.com, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb signed a one-year contract extension worth $12.25 million in guaranteed money.
New York Giants punter Jeff Feagles will announce his retirement today.
David Moore of the Dallas Morning News wonders if Dallas Cowboys second-round linebacker Sean Lee is the next Keith Brooking.
Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune compares Chicago Bears third-round safety Major Wright to safeties from the Bears' past.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Khalil Jones is being converted to safety.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Bernard Berrian was convicted of misdemeanor speeding and fined $300 for an incident that occurred last November.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz thinks the front four could be the strength of the defense.
Today's NFL birthdays: Ravens cornerback Chris Carr (27), Cowboys offensive tackle Pat McQuistan (27), Jaguars offensive tackle Paul McQuistan (27) and wide receiver Troy Williamson (28), Rams offensive tackle Jason Smith (24), and free agents cornerback Kevin Hobbs (27) and running back Justin Green (28).
NFL News and Notes
Shalise Manza Young of the Boston Globe profiles New England Patriots first-round cornerback Devin McCourty.
The Buffalo Bills announced the signing of six undrafted free agents on Thursday.
New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez has some advice for fourth-round running back Joe McKnight, his former teammate at USC.
With the Miami Dolphins set to open mini-camp today, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel breaks down the Dolphins' rookie class.
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis and cornerback Dominique Foxworth delivered an anti-steroid message to 700 high schoolers on Thursday.
Pittsburgh Steelers second-round linebacker Jason Worilds patterns his game after James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley.
Cleveland Browns third-round quarterback Colt McCoy will do fine in the NFL, Mack Brown, McCoy's college coach, says.
The Cincinnati Bengals claimed defensive back DeAngelo Willingham off waivers from the Seattle Seahawks.
Before he can practice, Tennessee Titans second-year wide receiver Kenny Britt must first get in shape, reports Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
Free agent safety Darren Sharper left a visit with the Jacksonville Jaguars without a contract offer.
Richard Justice of the Houston Chronicle looks at how Houston Texans owner Bob McNair has impacted the Houston community.
Undrafted University of Massachusetts wide receiver Jeremy Horne has a tryout with the Kansas City Chiefs this weekend.
Free agent linebacker Nick Greisen re-signed with the Denver Broncos.
The San Diego Chargers announced the signing of kicker Nick Novak on Thursday.
Oakland Raiders third- and fourth-round offensive tackles Jared Veldheer and Bruce Campbell will have opportunities to earn spots on the offensive line this season.
Arizona Cardinals guard Alan Faneca is expected to start at left guard.
San Francisco 49ers acting general manager Trent Baalke discussed the team's draft on Thursday.
Seattle Seahawks left tackle Walter Jones is retiring after 13-year career worthy of first-ballot induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
St. Louis Rams sixth-round tight end Fendi Onobun is a project with a lot of upside, writes Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
New Orleans Saints second-round offensive tackle Charles Brown's draft stock may have fallen due to medical red flags, reports James Varney of the Times-Picayune.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers first- and second-round defensive tackles Gerald McCoy and Brian Price will get some help from Warren Sapp.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution looks at the Atlanta Falcons three-deep depth chart.
Charles Chandler of the Charlotte Observer has the 10 things to watch at the Carolina Panthers three-day mini-camp.
Free agent wide receiver Bobby Wade has reached a one-year deal with the Washington Redskins.
As first reported by Adam Caplan of Scout.com, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb signed a one-year contract extension worth $12.25 million in guaranteed money.
New York Giants punter Jeff Feagles will announce his retirement today.
David Moore of the Dallas Morning News wonders if Dallas Cowboys second-round linebacker Sean Lee is the next Keith Brooking.
Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune compares Chicago Bears third-round safety Major Wright to safeties from the Bears' past.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Khalil Jones is being converted to safety.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Bernard Berrian was convicted of misdemeanor speeding and fined $300 for an incident that occurred last November.
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz thinks the front four could be the strength of the defense.
Today's NFL birthdays: Ravens cornerback Chris Carr (27), Cowboys offensive tackle Pat McQuistan (27), Jaguars offensive tackle Paul McQuistan (27) and wide receiver Troy Williamson (28), Rams offensive tackle Jason Smith (24), and free agents cornerback Kevin Hobbs (27) and running back Justin Green (28).
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Nick Greisen Re-Signs Wtith the Broncos
The Denver Broncos have re-signed veteran linebacker Nick Greisen, Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post reports.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
A fifth-round pick (152nd overall) out of Wisconsin by the New York Giants in 2002, Greisen (6-1, 245) has totaled 255 tackles, 4 quarterback sacks, and an interception during an 8-year career that has including stints with the Giants (2002-05), Jacksonville Jaguars (2006), and Baltimore Ravens (2007-08).
Greisen signed a one-year deal with the Broncos last off-season, but spent the entire 2009 season on injured reserve. Greisen joins Akin Ayodele, who was signed earlier this week, in adding veteran depth at the inside linebacker position.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
A fifth-round pick (152nd overall) out of Wisconsin by the New York Giants in 2002, Greisen (6-1, 245) has totaled 255 tackles, 4 quarterback sacks, and an interception during an 8-year career that has including stints with the Giants (2002-05), Jacksonville Jaguars (2006), and Baltimore Ravens (2007-08).
Greisen signed a one-year deal with the Broncos last off-season, but spent the entire 2009 season on injured reserve. Greisen joins Akin Ayodele, who was signed earlier this week, in adding veteran depth at the inside linebacker position.
Walter Jones Announces Retirement
Seattle Seahawks left tackle Walter Jones announced his retirement from professional football on Thursday.
The Seahawks also announced that they will immediately retire his #71.
Chosen with the sixth overall pick of the 1997 NFL Draft out of Florida State, Jones (6-5, 325) started all of his 180 regular season games during his 13-year career, the entirety of which was spent with the Seahawks. Jones’ 180 starts are the second-most in franchise history, behind only 1995 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Steve Largent, and his 180 games are the fourth-most in franchise history.
Jones was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month in October of 1997, and was a consensus first-team All-Rookie selection, the first of what would eventually become a lengthy list of accolades Jones’ would earn throughout his career.
Named to his first Pro Bowl in 1999—the first Seahawks offensive lineman to play in a Pro Bowl--Jones would be named to eight straight Pro Bowls between 2001 and 2008, and his nine Pro Bowls have set a new franchise record, breaking the mark established by defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy.
Widely regarded as the one of the best left tackles in NFL history, Jones was named to the NFL’s All-Decade team for the 2000s in January.
As his peers recognized his ability and performance, so, too, did his coaches and the media.
Former Seahawks head coach Mike Holmgren called Walter Jones “the greatest offensive player I ever coached”, an amazing compliment considering Holmgren coached Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Steve Young, and Brett Favre.
Jones was named first-team All-Pro on four occasions (2001, 2004-05, 2007) and was second-team All-Pro twice, including in 2008, when Jones played in just 12 games, including the last one he’d ever play, a Thanksgiving Day game against the Dallas Cowboys in the freshly demolished Texas Stadium.
Jones injured his left knee that day in Dallas, which turned out to be the injury that would end his storied career.
Like most NFL players, Jones played through injuries that would debilitate the common man. Jones underwent multiple shoulder surgeries, had broken fingers, sprained ankles, etc…Unlike other NFL players, Jones had a kidney condition that didn’t allow him to take any pain medication stronger than Tylenol, making the remarkable durability he displayed throughout his career even more impressive.
Jones underwent microfracture surgery on his knee last December, which required a clean-up procedure in August. Jones also injured his back on the opening days of training camp, and while he continued to rehabilitate the injuries, he was placed on injured reserve last October.
The Seahawks also announced that they will immediately retire his #71.
Chosen with the sixth overall pick of the 1997 NFL Draft out of Florida State, Jones (6-5, 325) started all of his 180 regular season games during his 13-year career, the entirety of which was spent with the Seahawks. Jones’ 180 starts are the second-most in franchise history, behind only 1995 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Steve Largent, and his 180 games are the fourth-most in franchise history.
Jones was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month in October of 1997, and was a consensus first-team All-Rookie selection, the first of what would eventually become a lengthy list of accolades Jones’ would earn throughout his career.
Named to his first Pro Bowl in 1999—the first Seahawks offensive lineman to play in a Pro Bowl--Jones would be named to eight straight Pro Bowls between 2001 and 2008, and his nine Pro Bowls have set a new franchise record, breaking the mark established by defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy.
Widely regarded as the one of the best left tackles in NFL history, Jones was named to the NFL’s All-Decade team for the 2000s in January.
As his peers recognized his ability and performance, so, too, did his coaches and the media.
Former Seahawks head coach Mike Holmgren called Walter Jones “the greatest offensive player I ever coached”, an amazing compliment considering Holmgren coached Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Steve Young, and Brett Favre.
Jones was named first-team All-Pro on four occasions (2001, 2004-05, 2007) and was second-team All-Pro twice, including in 2008, when Jones played in just 12 games, including the last one he’d ever play, a Thanksgiving Day game against the Dallas Cowboys in the freshly demolished Texas Stadium.
Jones injured his left knee that day in Dallas, which turned out to be the injury that would end his storied career.
Like most NFL players, Jones played through injuries that would debilitate the common man. Jones underwent multiple shoulder surgeries, had broken fingers, sprained ankles, etc…Unlike other NFL players, Jones had a kidney condition that didn’t allow him to take any pain medication stronger than Tylenol, making the remarkable durability he displayed throughout his career even more impressive.
Jones underwent microfracture surgery on his knee last December, which required a clean-up procedure in August. Jones also injured his back on the opening days of training camp, and while he continued to rehabilitate the injuries, he was placed on injured reserve last October.
Bengals Claim CB DeAngelo Willingham Off Waivers
The Cincinnati Bengals have been awarded cornerback DeAngelo Willingham off waivers from the Seattle Seahawks, the team announced on Thursday.
Willingham (6-0, 200) entered the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who signed him as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Tennessee. Willingham totaled 8 tackles for the Buccaneers during the 2009 pre-season, but was waived and claimed by both the Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots.
Awarded to the Cowboys, Willingham was released after a few days and the Patriots added him to their practice squad. Willingham spent two weeks on the Patriots' practice squad before being released on September 21.
The Seahawks added Willingham to their practice squad as part of a roster shake-up last November 3.
Willingham (6-0, 200) entered the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who signed him as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Tennessee. Willingham totaled 8 tackles for the Buccaneers during the 2009 pre-season, but was waived and claimed by both the Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots.
Awarded to the Cowboys, Willingham was released after a few days and the Patriots added him to their practice squad. Willingham spent two weeks on the Patriots' practice squad before being released on September 21.
The Seahawks added Willingham to their practice squad as part of a roster shake-up last November 3.
Sharper Leaves Jacksonville Without Contract
Free agent safety Darren Sharper began his free agent tour in Jacksonville, but James Varney of the Times-Picayune reports the Pro Bowl safety left his visit without a contract offer.
Sharper's second destination is unknown, but Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports Sharper will remain in contact with the Jaguars, and that the Miami Dolphins and Washington Redskins may be interested in him, as well.
Sharper would prefer to remain with the New Orleans Saints, who are interested in bringing him back, provided the price is right.
Sharper's second destination is unknown, but Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports Sharper will remain in contact with the Jaguars, and that the Miami Dolphins and Washington Redskins may be interested in him, as well.
Sharper would prefer to remain with the New Orleans Saints, who are interested in bringing him back, provided the price is right.
Eagles QB Kevin Kolb Agrees to One-Year Contract Extension
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb has agreed to a one-year contract extension worth $12.26 million dollars guaranteed, Adam Caplan of Scout.com reports.
According to Caplan, Kolb will receive a $10.7 million dollar signing bonus, and 30% increases over his 2010 and 2011 base salaries, the maximum increase allowed.
A second-round pick (36th overall) out of the University of Houston in 2007, Kolb has appeared in 12 games, including two starts, during his first three seasons in the NFL. The 6-3, 218-pound quarterback has completed 60.8% of his passes for 885 yards, four touchdowns and seven interceptions, compiling a passer rating of 68.9.
Kolb got his first NFL starts early in the 2009 campaign, after McNabb was sidelined by broken ribs in the season-opener. Kolb attempted 51 passes against the eventual NFC Champion New Orleans Saints in his first NFL start, and the inexperienced Kolb predictably struggled, tossing three interceptions in Philadelphia's 48-22 loss. The following week against Kansas City, Kolb appeared more composed, completing 24-of-34 passes for 327 yards and a pair of touchdowns, but more importantly, played turnover-free football.
According to Caplan, Kolb will receive a $10.7 million dollar signing bonus, and 30% increases over his 2010 and 2011 base salaries, the maximum increase allowed.
A second-round pick (36th overall) out of the University of Houston in 2007, Kolb has appeared in 12 games, including two starts, during his first three seasons in the NFL. The 6-3, 218-pound quarterback has completed 60.8% of his passes for 885 yards, four touchdowns and seven interceptions, compiling a passer rating of 68.9.
Kolb got his first NFL starts early in the 2009 campaign, after McNabb was sidelined by broken ribs in the season-opener. Kolb attempted 51 passes against the eventual NFC Champion New Orleans Saints in his first NFL start, and the inexperienced Kolb predictably struggled, tossing three interceptions in Philadelphia's 48-22 loss. The following week against Kansas City, Kolb appeared more composed, completing 24-of-34 passes for 327 yards and a pair of touchdowns, but more importantly, played turnover-free football.
Chris Johnson, Bo Scaife Still Absent from Titans' OTAs
Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson and tight end Bo Scaife remain absent from the team's "Organized Team Activity" sessions, Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports.
Today was second of the 14 OTA sessions the Titans will hold this off-season, with the next series is scheduled for May 11 and 13.
Johnson and Scaife, who signed his one-year restricted free agent tender, are both seeking long-term contracts from the Titans. For Johnson, that pursuit is complicated by the rules regarding the uncapped year. Titans restricted free agent linebacker Stephen Tulloch has not signed his one-year tender, and has been a no-show for the voluntary sessions, as well.
Wyatt reports that for various reasons, ten Titans veterans, including an admittedly out of shape second-year wide receiver Kenny Britt, did not participate in today's session.
Today was second of the 14 OTA sessions the Titans will hold this off-season, with the next series is scheduled for May 11 and 13.
Johnson and Scaife, who signed his one-year restricted free agent tender, are both seeking long-term contracts from the Titans. For Johnson, that pursuit is complicated by the rules regarding the uncapped year. Titans restricted free agent linebacker Stephen Tulloch has not signed his one-year tender, and has been a no-show for the voluntary sessions, as well.
Wyatt reports that for various reasons, ten Titans veterans, including an admittedly out of shape second-year wide receiver Kenny Britt, did not participate in today's session.
Redskins Agree to Terms With Bobby Wade
CSNWashington.com reports that free agent wide receiver Bobby Wade has reached a one-year deal with the Washington Redskins.
On Wednesday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Redskins had reached a deal with Joey Galloway.
A fifth-round pick (139th overall) out of Arizona by the Chicago Bears in 2003, Wade has caught 244 passes for 2,858 yards and 9 touchdowns during a seven-year career that, in addition to the Bears, has included stints with the Tennessee Titans (2005-06), Minnesota Vikings (2007-08), and the Kansas City Chiefs, where he caught 36 passes for 367 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games last season.
Wade has also averaged 8.5 yards per punt return during his career, including 7.6 yards on 21 returns last season for Kansas City.
On Wednesday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Redskins had reached a deal with Joey Galloway.
A fifth-round pick (139th overall) out of Arizona by the Chicago Bears in 2003, Wade has caught 244 passes for 2,858 yards and 9 touchdowns during a seven-year career that, in addition to the Bears, has included stints with the Tennessee Titans (2005-06), Minnesota Vikings (2007-08), and the Kansas City Chiefs, where he caught 36 passes for 367 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games last season.
Wade has also averaged 8.5 yards per punt return during his career, including 7.6 yards on 21 returns last season for Kansas City.
NFL News and Notes - April 29, 2010
Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross and the NFL weighed in on the line of questioning that Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland had for Dallas Cowboys first-round wide receiver Dez Bryant during their pre-draft visit.
Undrafted Stony Brook running back Conte Cuttino is creating an Internet buzz among New York Jets fans, writes Manish Mehta of the Newark Star-Ledger.
New England Patriots safety James Sanders learned from his struggles in 2009.
The Buffalo Bills added a pair of undrafted free agents on Wednesday.
Free agent defensive back DeAngelo Smith was claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Browns on Wednesday.
Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer takes a look at the Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver position.
A 4-3 defensive coordinator before being hired, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is sold on the 3-4 defense.
Baltimore Ravens fullback Charles Ali was waived on Wednesday, reports Aaron Wilson of the Carroll County Times.
Five-time Pro Bowl safety Darren Sharper will begin his free agent tour with the Jacksonville Jaguars today.
Former Tennessee Titans center Kevin Mawae wonders if his role as NFLPA president is the reason why he's still on the free agent market.
Undrafted rookies will get their chance with the Indianapolis Colts during this weekend's three-day rookie mini-camp.
The Houston Texans will begin their OTAs on May 17, reports John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.
Free agent defensive lineman John Henderson's planned visit with the Kansas City Chiefs has been called off.
Denver Broncos Pro Bowl left tackle Ryan Clady partially tore the patellar tendon in his left knee playing basketball over the weekend. He'll miss 3-to-4 months.
Former San Diego Chargers safety Clinton Hart was arrested and charged with battery against his wife, who claims her husband never touched or threatened her.
By not releasing quarterback JaMarcus Russell, the Oakland Raiders may be trying to get him to accept a pay cut, writes Vittorio Tafur of the San Francisco Chronicle.
Cal wide receiver Nyan Boateng has a tryout with the San Francisco 49ers during this weekend's mini-camp.
Free agent safety Quinton Teal signed with the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday.
The Arizona Cardinals re-signed nose tackle Bryan Robinson to a one-year deal on Wednesday.
St. Louis Rams first-round quarterback Sam Bradford headlines a group of 60 players who will participate in the Rams' rookie mini-camp this weekend.
The Dallas Cowboys have a lot of faith in the ability of offensive tackle Doug Free, writes David Moore of the Dallas Morning News.
Free agent wide receiver Joey Galloway reached a one-year deal with the Washington Redskins.
Philadelphia Eagles first-round defensive end Brandon Graham hopes to have an immediate impact as an edge pass-rusher.
New York Giants punter Jeff Feagles will announce his retirement on Friday.
Army 1st Lt. Caleb Campbell will participate in the Detroit Lions rookie mini-camp this weekend.
Minnesota cities and towns will have an opportunity to vie to become the new home of the Minnesota Vikings.
Green Bay Packers first-round offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga stays true to his roots, writes Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press-Gazette.
The Chicago Bears traded safety Kevin Payne to the Rams on Wednesday. The Bears will receive a seventh-round pick in 2011 if Payne makes the Rams' 53-man roster.
New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey will be a frequent participant in the team's off-season workout program.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers undrafted rookie quarterback Jevan Snead's decision to leave college early is under scrutiny.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution introduces Atlanta Falcons to sixth-round safety Shann Schillinger.
Rules of the uncapped year make it hard for the Carolina Panthers to sign Pro Bowl center Ryan Kalil to a long-term extension.
Today's NFL birthdays: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (27) and defensive tackle Tommie Harris (27), Cowboys rookie running back Lonyae Miller (22), Jets running back Chauncey Washington (25), 49ers safety Michael Lewis (30), Rams kicker Josh Brown (31), free agent safety Brandon Harrison (25).
Undrafted Stony Brook running back Conte Cuttino is creating an Internet buzz among New York Jets fans, writes Manish Mehta of the Newark Star-Ledger.
New England Patriots safety James Sanders learned from his struggles in 2009.
The Buffalo Bills added a pair of undrafted free agents on Wednesday.
Free agent defensive back DeAngelo Smith was claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Browns on Wednesday.
Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer takes a look at the Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver position.
A 4-3 defensive coordinator before being hired, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is sold on the 3-4 defense.
Baltimore Ravens fullback Charles Ali was waived on Wednesday, reports Aaron Wilson of the Carroll County Times.
Five-time Pro Bowl safety Darren Sharper will begin his free agent tour with the Jacksonville Jaguars today.
Former Tennessee Titans center Kevin Mawae wonders if his role as NFLPA president is the reason why he's still on the free agent market.
Undrafted rookies will get their chance with the Indianapolis Colts during this weekend's three-day rookie mini-camp.
The Houston Texans will begin their OTAs on May 17, reports John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.
Free agent defensive lineman John Henderson's planned visit with the Kansas City Chiefs has been called off.
Denver Broncos Pro Bowl left tackle Ryan Clady partially tore the patellar tendon in his left knee playing basketball over the weekend. He'll miss 3-to-4 months.
Former San Diego Chargers safety Clinton Hart was arrested and charged with battery against his wife, who claims her husband never touched or threatened her.
By not releasing quarterback JaMarcus Russell, the Oakland Raiders may be trying to get him to accept a pay cut, writes Vittorio Tafur of the San Francisco Chronicle.
Cal wide receiver Nyan Boateng has a tryout with the San Francisco 49ers during this weekend's mini-camp.
Free agent safety Quinton Teal signed with the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday.
The Arizona Cardinals re-signed nose tackle Bryan Robinson to a one-year deal on Wednesday.
St. Louis Rams first-round quarterback Sam Bradford headlines a group of 60 players who will participate in the Rams' rookie mini-camp this weekend.
The Dallas Cowboys have a lot of faith in the ability of offensive tackle Doug Free, writes David Moore of the Dallas Morning News.
Free agent wide receiver Joey Galloway reached a one-year deal with the Washington Redskins.
Philadelphia Eagles first-round defensive end Brandon Graham hopes to have an immediate impact as an edge pass-rusher.
New York Giants punter Jeff Feagles will announce his retirement on Friday.
Army 1st Lt. Caleb Campbell will participate in the Detroit Lions rookie mini-camp this weekend.
Minnesota cities and towns will have an opportunity to vie to become the new home of the Minnesota Vikings.
Green Bay Packers first-round offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga stays true to his roots, writes Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press-Gazette.
The Chicago Bears traded safety Kevin Payne to the Rams on Wednesday. The Bears will receive a seventh-round pick in 2011 if Payne makes the Rams' 53-man roster.
New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey will be a frequent participant in the team's off-season workout program.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers undrafted rookie quarterback Jevan Snead's decision to leave college early is under scrutiny.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution introduces Atlanta Falcons to sixth-round safety Shann Schillinger.
Rules of the uncapped year make it hard for the Carolina Panthers to sign Pro Bowl center Ryan Kalil to a long-term extension.
Today's NFL birthdays: Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (27) and defensive tackle Tommie Harris (27), Cowboys rookie running back Lonyae Miller (22), Jets running back Chauncey Washington (25), 49ers safety Michael Lewis (30), Rams kicker Josh Brown (31), free agent safety Brandon Harrison (25).
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Redskins Reach 1-Year Deal with WR Joey Galloway
The Washington Redskins have reached a one-year deal with free agent wide receiver Joey Galloway, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Galloway spent last season with the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers, catching 7 passes for 67 yards in 3 games, including two starts, with the Patriots. New England released Galloway in Week 7, and he signed with the Steelers in Week 16, but did not appear in a game for the Steelers.
The eighth overall pick of the 1995 NFL Draft out of Ohio State by the Seattle Seahawks, Galloway, who turns 39 in November, has caught 689 passes for 10,777 yards and 77 touchdowns during his 15-year NFL career, which has included stints with the Dallas Cowboys (2000-03) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2004-08).
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Galloway spent last season with the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers, catching 7 passes for 67 yards in 3 games, including two starts, with the Patriots. New England released Galloway in Week 7, and he signed with the Steelers in Week 16, but did not appear in a game for the Steelers.
The eighth overall pick of the 1995 NFL Draft out of Ohio State by the Seattle Seahawks, Galloway, who turns 39 in November, has caught 689 passes for 10,777 yards and 77 touchdowns during his 15-year NFL career, which has included stints with the Dallas Cowboys (2000-03) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2004-08).
Seahawks Sign S Quinton Teal
Free agent safety Quinton Teal has signed with the Seattle Seahawks, Darin Gantt of the Rock Hill Herald reports.
Terms were not disclosed.
An undrafted free agent out of Coastal Carolina, Teal signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2007. The 6-1, 187-pound safety has totaled 45 tackles, including 23 on special teams, in 44 games for the Panthers, including a career-high 20 in 2009, where Teal started a career-high three games.
Teal was a restricted free agent this off-season, but the Panthers did not extend a qualifying offer to him, making him an unrestricted free agent. Seahawks director of pro personnel Tag Ribary and assistant director of pro personnel Trent Kirchner worked in the Panthers' personnel department in recent years, with Kirchner leaving the Panthers to accept his current position in Seattle.
Seattle also signed long-snapper Matt Overton, and waived punter Tom Malone and cornerback DeAngelo Willingham.
The Seahawks begin a three-day mini-camp on Friday.
Terms were not disclosed.
An undrafted free agent out of Coastal Carolina, Teal signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2007. The 6-1, 187-pound safety has totaled 45 tackles, including 23 on special teams, in 44 games for the Panthers, including a career-high 20 in 2009, where Teal started a career-high three games.
Teal was a restricted free agent this off-season, but the Panthers did not extend a qualifying offer to him, making him an unrestricted free agent. Seahawks director of pro personnel Tag Ribary and assistant director of pro personnel Trent Kirchner worked in the Panthers' personnel department in recent years, with Kirchner leaving the Panthers to accept his current position in Seattle.
Seattle also signed long-snapper Matt Overton, and waived punter Tom Malone and cornerback DeAngelo Willingham.
The Seahawks begin a three-day mini-camp on Friday.
Dolphins Owner to Look Into Ireland Situation
Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross issued a statement regarding the Jeff Ireland/Dez Bryant situation on Wednesday night.
From the Twitter page of Edgar Thompson of the Palm Beach Post:
"I will be looking into this matter personally and will take appropriate actions if necessary," Ross' statement begins. "I have always strived [sic] to comply with the highest standards in all aspects of my businesses including recruiting. In interviewing employees we always look to obtain relevant and appropriate information in adherence with the best industry practices."
From the Twitter page of Edgar Thompson of the Palm Beach Post:
"I will be looking into this matter personally and will take appropriate actions if necessary," Ross' statement begins. "I have always strived [sic] to comply with the highest standards in all aspects of my businesses including recruiting. In interviewing employees we always look to obtain relevant and appropriate information in adherence with the best industry practices."
Partial Patellar Tear for Clady
Denver Broncos left tackle Ryan Clady suffered only a partial tear of the patellar tendon in his left knee, Mike Klis of the Denver Post reports.
Klis adds that Clady injured the knee playing basketball over the weekend, the 6-6, 325-pound Pro Bowl tackle underwent surgery on Tuesday at the Steadman Hawkins Clinic in Denver.
The partial tear means that Clady won't miss the entire season, and will instead be on the shelf for 3-to-4 month. That timeline means he could potential return for the start of training camp, though given his importance to the franchise, the Broncos likely won't rush him back for pre-season action.
Klis adds that Clady injured the knee playing basketball over the weekend, the 6-6, 325-pound Pro Bowl tackle underwent surgery on Tuesday at the Steadman Hawkins Clinic in Denver.
The partial tear means that Clady won't miss the entire season, and will instead be on the shelf for 3-to-4 month. That timeline means he could potential return for the start of training camp, though given his importance to the franchise, the Broncos likely won't rush him back for pre-season action.
Bears Trade Kevin Payne to the Rams
The Chicago Bears have traded veteran safety Kevin Payne to the St. Louis Rams, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.
In exchange for Payne, the Rams have sent the Bears an undisclosed conditional draft choice, with Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times adding that if Payne makes the Rams' 53-man roster, the Bears will receive a 7th round pick in 2011.
Payne has started 22 games over his three seasons with the Bears, who chose him in the fifth-round (167th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft out of Louisiana-Monroe. Payne set career highs in 2008, when he started all 16 games, totaling 88 tackles, 1 quarterback sack, and four interceptions, averaging 36.8 yards per return.
Payne (6-0, 212) started just 5 of 13 games last season, and was credited with 46 tackles and 5 pass break-ups. The acquisition of Chris Harris on Tuesday made Payne expendable.
Signed through the 2010 season, Payne will earn $1.101 million dollars this season.
In exchange for Payne, the Rams have sent the Bears an undisclosed conditional draft choice, with Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times adding that if Payne makes the Rams' 53-man roster, the Bears will receive a 7th round pick in 2011.
Payne has started 22 games over his three seasons with the Bears, who chose him in the fifth-round (167th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft out of Louisiana-Monroe. Payne set career highs in 2008, when he started all 16 games, totaling 88 tackles, 1 quarterback sack, and four interceptions, averaging 36.8 yards per return.
Payne (6-0, 212) started just 5 of 13 games last season, and was credited with 46 tackles and 5 pass break-ups. The acquisition of Chris Harris on Tuesday made Payne expendable.
Signed through the 2010 season, Payne will earn $1.101 million dollars this season.
Caleb Campbell Headed to Lions Rookie Camp
Army 1st Lt. Caleb Campbell will participate in the Detroit Lions rookie camp this weekend, the Military Times' "After Action" blog reports.
"I’m nervous as hell," Campbell said. "It’s gonna be funny … looking out in the locker room and seeing Ndamukong Suh and these other guys."
Campbell, the 218th overall pick of the 2008 NFL Draft, had his dreams of pursuing an professional career put on hold that summer, when the Army changed its policies regarding allowing officers to pursue professional sports careers, requiring them to serve two years of active duty before they can request early release.
According to the report, Campbell is stationed in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and will graduate from the Army's BOLC II course in July, before joining a field artillery unit with the Michigan National Guard.
Campbell says he's bulked up in the last two years, and is up to 235 pounds. A safety for Army, Campbell was 223 when he was drafted in the seventh round two years ago.
"I’m nervous as hell," Campbell said. "It’s gonna be funny … looking out in the locker room and seeing Ndamukong Suh and these other guys."
Campbell, the 218th overall pick of the 2008 NFL Draft, had his dreams of pursuing an professional career put on hold that summer, when the Army changed its policies regarding allowing officers to pursue professional sports careers, requiring them to serve two years of active duty before they can request early release.
According to the report, Campbell is stationed in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and will graduate from the Army's BOLC II course in July, before joining a field artillery unit with the Michigan National Guard.
Campbell says he's bulked up in the last two years, and is up to 235 pounds. A safety for Army, Campbell was 223 when he was drafted in the seventh round two years ago.
PFT: Clady Tore Patellar Tendon Playing Basketball (Confirmed)
Denver Broncos Pro Bowl left tackle Ryan Clady suffered a serious knee injury, Mike Klis of Denver Post reported, and ProFootballTalk.com's Mike Florio reports that it's a torn patellar tendon, which occurred while Clady was playing basketball.
Florio adds that if his source is correct, Clady could miss the entire 2010 season.
UPDATE: It has been confirmed that Clady tore the patellar tendon in his left knee while playing basketball, with ESPN's Adam Schefter adding that Clady has told people that he'll miss three months. Based on that timeline for recovery, Clady should be ready for the start of training camp, but he appears headed for the "Physically Unable to Perform" list, at least for the start of training camp.
Josina Anderson of FOX31 in Denver reported Clady as saying "it's not that bad" about the injury, and that Clady identified the left knee as being the one he injured.
To learn more about patellar tendons, click here.
Florio adds that if his source is correct, Clady could miss the entire 2010 season.
UPDATE: It has been confirmed that Clady tore the patellar tendon in his left knee while playing basketball, with ESPN's Adam Schefter adding that Clady has told people that he'll miss three months. Based on that timeline for recovery, Clady should be ready for the start of training camp, but he appears headed for the "Physically Unable to Perform" list, at least for the start of training camp.
Josina Anderson of FOX31 in Denver reported Clady as saying "it's not that bad" about the injury, and that Clady identified the left knee as being the one he injured.
To learn more about patellar tendons, click here.
2010 NFL Mini-Camp Schedules
Earlier this month, the NFL announced the dates each of the 32 NFL teams had set aside for their "Organized Team Activity" sessions. Below are the mini-camp schedules for all 32 NFL teams.
Teams are permitted to hold a rookie minicamp on one of the first two weekends after the NFL Draft and conduct one mandatory minicamp for veteran players. Teams who have hired a new head coach are permitted to hold two additional voluntary mini-camps.
All camps include rookies and veterans unless otherwise noted.
Arizona Cardinals - April 30-May 2
Atlanta Falcons - May 7-9
Baltimore Ravens - May 7-9
Buffalo Bills - May 7-9 (rookies, voluntary for veterans), June 4-6 (voluntary), June 23-25
Carolina Panthers - April 30-May 2
Chicago Bears - April 30-May 2 (rookies), May 21-23
Cincinnati Bengals - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 15-17
Cleveland Browns - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 10-12
Dallas Cowboys - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 11-13
Denver Broncos - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 11-13
Detroit Lions - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 23-25
Green Bay Packers - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 21-23
Houston Texans - June 14-16
Indianapolis Colts - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 4-6
Jacksonville Jaguars - May 1-3
Kansas City Chiefs - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 11-13
Miami Dolphins - April 30-May 2 (rookies), May 28-30
Minnesota Vikings - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 11-13
New England Patriots - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 15-17
New Orleans Saints - May 7-9 (rookies), June 4-6
New York Giants - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 15-17
New York Jets - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 14-16
Oakland Raiders - April 30-May 2
Philadelphia Eagles - April 30-May 2
Pittsburgh Steelers - April 30-May 2
St. Louis Rams -April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 10-12
San Diego Chargers - May 7-8 (rookies), May 26-28
San Francisco 49ers - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 18-20
Seattle Seahawks - April 13-15 (voluntary), April 30-May 2, June 22-24 (voluntary)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 21-23
Tennessee Titans - April 30-May 1 (rookies)
Washington Redskins - April 16-18 (voluntary), May 7-9 (rookies; voluntary for veterans), June 16-18
Teams are permitted to hold a rookie minicamp on one of the first two weekends after the NFL Draft and conduct one mandatory minicamp for veteran players. Teams who have hired a new head coach are permitted to hold two additional voluntary mini-camps.
All camps include rookies and veterans unless otherwise noted.
Arizona Cardinals - April 30-May 2
Atlanta Falcons - May 7-9
Baltimore Ravens - May 7-9
Buffalo Bills - May 7-9 (rookies, voluntary for veterans), June 4-6 (voluntary), June 23-25
Carolina Panthers - April 30-May 2
Chicago Bears - April 30-May 2 (rookies), May 21-23
Cincinnati Bengals - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 15-17
Cleveland Browns - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 10-12
Dallas Cowboys - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 11-13
Denver Broncos - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 11-13
Detroit Lions - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 23-25
Green Bay Packers - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 21-23
Houston Texans - June 14-16
Indianapolis Colts - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 4-6
Jacksonville Jaguars - May 1-3
Kansas City Chiefs - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 11-13
Miami Dolphins - April 30-May 2 (rookies), May 28-30
Minnesota Vikings - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 11-13
New England Patriots - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 15-17
New Orleans Saints - May 7-9 (rookies), June 4-6
New York Giants - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 15-17
New York Jets - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 14-16
Oakland Raiders - April 30-May 2
Philadelphia Eagles - April 30-May 2
Pittsburgh Steelers - April 30-May 2
St. Louis Rams -April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 10-12
San Diego Chargers - May 7-8 (rookies), May 26-28
San Francisco 49ers - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 18-20
Seattle Seahawks - April 13-15 (voluntary), April 30-May 2, June 22-24 (voluntary)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - April 30-May 2 (rookies), June 21-23
Tennessee Titans - April 30-May 1 (rookies)
Washington Redskins - April 16-18 (voluntary), May 7-9 (rookies; voluntary for veterans), June 16-18
Giants P Jeff Feagles to Retire on Friday
44-year old New York Giants punter Jeff Feagles is expected to announce his retirement on Friday, Paul Schwartz of the New York Post reports.
Feagles signed a one-year deal with the Giants earlier this month. 2010 would have been Feagles' 23rd season in the National Football League, and his eighth with the Giants. An undrafted free agent out of the University of Miami, Feagles has also played for the New England Patriots (1988-89), Philadelphia Eagles (1990-93), Arizona Cardinals (1994-97), and Seattle Seahawks (1998-2002).
Feagles has punted an NFL-record 1,713 times, in an NFL-record 352 consecutive games, for over 70,000 yards. A master of the "coffin corner" punts, Feagles averaged 36.0 yards per punt in 2009, putting 23 of his 64 punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line. Feagles earned Pro Bowl honors following the 1995 and 2008 seasons.
With Feagles retiring, Aussie import Jy Bond will compete with 2010 seventh-round pick Matt Dodge (East Carolina) for the Giants' punting duties. Who will handle the holding duties remains to be seen.
Feagles signed a one-year deal with the Giants earlier this month. 2010 would have been Feagles' 23rd season in the National Football League, and his eighth with the Giants. An undrafted free agent out of the University of Miami, Feagles has also played for the New England Patriots (1988-89), Philadelphia Eagles (1990-93), Arizona Cardinals (1994-97), and Seattle Seahawks (1998-2002).
Feagles has punted an NFL-record 1,713 times, in an NFL-record 352 consecutive games, for over 70,000 yards. A master of the "coffin corner" punts, Feagles averaged 36.0 yards per punt in 2009, putting 23 of his 64 punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line. Feagles earned Pro Bowl honors following the 1995 and 2008 seasons.
With Feagles retiring, Aussie import Jy Bond will compete with 2010 seventh-round pick Matt Dodge (East Carolina) for the Giants' punting duties. Who will handle the holding duties remains to be seen.
Eagles Sign P Ken Parrish
Adam Caplan of Scout.com reports the Philadelphia Eagles have signed free agent punter Ken Parrish.
Terms were not disclosed.
Parrish, 25, is a native of East Stroudsberg, Pennsylvania and played his college ball at East Stroudsburg University, where he was an all-PSAC selection his final two seasons. Parrish entered the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2007. Parrish averaged 39.8 yards per punt in three pre-season games before he was released.
Parrish spent part of last off-season on the Eagles' roster, but was waived prior to the start of pre-season action. Picked up for one game by the New York Jets, Parrish averaged 36 yards on a pair of punts against the Baltimore Ravens.
Parrish becomes the third punter on the Eagles' roster, joining restricted free agent Sav Rocca and veteran Durant Brooks.
Terms were not disclosed.
Parrish, 25, is a native of East Stroudsberg, Pennsylvania and played his college ball at East Stroudsburg University, where he was an all-PSAC selection his final two seasons. Parrish entered the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2007. Parrish averaged 39.8 yards per punt in three pre-season games before he was released.
Parrish spent part of last off-season on the Eagles' roster, but was waived prior to the start of pre-season action. Picked up for one game by the New York Jets, Parrish averaged 36 yards on a pair of punts against the Baltimore Ravens.
Parrish becomes the third punter on the Eagles' roster, joining restricted free agent Sav Rocca and veteran Durant Brooks.
DeMaurice Smith Statement on Dez Bryant
NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith has issued the following statement regarding the line of questioning that Miami Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland took with now-Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant during his pre-draft visit with the team.
"We need to make sure the men of this league are treated as businessmen. During interviews, our players and prospective players should never be subjected to discrimination or degradation stemming from the biases or misconceptions held by team personnel. NFL teams cannot have the free reign to ask questions during the interview process which can be categorized as stereotyping or which may bring a personal insult to any player as a man. For the past year, active, former and incoming players have heard me speak about the expectations we have of them as members of this union, their teams, communities and families. It is equally true that the same kind of respect is demanded of their employers."
"We need to make sure the men of this league are treated as businessmen. During interviews, our players and prospective players should never be subjected to discrimination or degradation stemming from the biases or misconceptions held by team personnel. NFL teams cannot have the free reign to ask questions during the interview process which can be categorized as stereotyping or which may bring a personal insult to any player as a man. For the past year, active, former and incoming players have heard me speak about the expectations we have of them as members of this union, their teams, communities and families. It is equally true that the same kind of respect is demanded of their employers."
Browns Claim DB DeAngelo Smith Off Waivers
The Cleveland Browns have claimed defensive back DeAngelo Smith off waivers from the Detroit Lions.
Smith was waived by Detroit on Monday.
A 2009 fifth-round pick (143rd overall) out of the University of Cincinnati by the Dallas Cowboys, Smith was originally claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Browns and opened last season on their 53-man roster. Waived after week one, Smith was claimed by the Chicago Bears, but waived and re-signed to the practice squad two weeks later.
The Lions plucked Smith off the Bears' practice squad in Week 11, and in 7 games, including one start, Smith was credited with 16 tackles, 7 on special teams, and a pass break-up.
Smith made deadlines last August when he challenged Cowboys fifth-round kicker David Buehler to a 50-yard race at the end of practice...and lost.
Smith was waived by Detroit on Monday.
A 2009 fifth-round pick (143rd overall) out of the University of Cincinnati by the Dallas Cowboys, Smith was originally claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Browns and opened last season on their 53-man roster. Waived after week one, Smith was claimed by the Chicago Bears, but waived and re-signed to the practice squad two weeks later.
The Lions plucked Smith off the Bears' practice squad in Week 11, and in 7 games, including one start, Smith was credited with 16 tackles, 7 on special teams, and a pass break-up.
Smith made deadlines last August when he challenged Cowboys fifth-round kicker David Buehler to a 50-yard race at the end of practice...and lost.
Broncos LT Ryan Clady Injures Knee
Mike Klis of the Denver Post reports that Denver Broncos Pro Bowl left tackle Ryan Clady has suffered a non-football injury to the patellar tendon in one of his knees.
The severity of the injury, and how it occurred, is presently unknown.
Clady, the 12th overall pick of the 2008 NFL Draft out of Boise State, finished third in Offensive Rookie of the Year balloting after allowing just a half-sack during his rookie season. Clady was second-team All-Pro as a rookie, as well.
Clady (6-6, 325) has started at left tackle in all 32 of his games in the National Football League, and after the 2009 season, started the Pro Bowl for the AFC squad and earned first-team All-Pro honors.
The severity of the injury, and how it occurred, is presently unknown.
Clady, the 12th overall pick of the 2008 NFL Draft out of Boise State, finished third in Offensive Rookie of the Year balloting after allowing just a half-sack during his rookie season. Clady was second-team All-Pro as a rookie, as well.
Clady (6-6, 325) has started at left tackle in all 32 of his games in the National Football League, and after the 2009 season, started the Pro Bowl for the AFC squad and earned first-team All-Pro honors.
Cowboys Draft Board Potentially Exposed
"Blogging the Boys", the Dallas Cowboys' portal on the SBNation network, posted a screen capture of the Dallas Cowboys' draft room, which offers some insight into where the Cowboys ranked certain players.
The author, "JBell5323", deduces that the columns represent the round the Cowboys graded each player, as they've written down where each of those of players were taken, and by whom. Interesting stuff, if you're into that sort of thing.
Some observations, provided this truly reflects the Cowboys' draft board:
- The Cowboys appear to have had Gerald McCoy rated ahead of Ndamukong Suh, and Russell Okung ahead of Trent Williams.
- Dallas had a first-round grade on Cal defensive tackle Tyson Alualu and running back Jahvid Best, as well as on San Francisco 49ers linebacker Navorro Bowman (Penn State).
- Rutgers offensive tackle Anthony Davis had a third-round grade. (He went 11th overall to SF)
- Michigan defensive end Brandon Graham had a second-round grade, as did fellow first-rounders Jerry Hughes, Kareem Jackson, Ryan Mathews, Devin McCourty, Demaryius Thomas, and Dan Williams.
- Jimmy Clausen and Taylor Mays had a second-round grade, while Colt McCoy had a third-round grade, as did Notre Dame wide receiver Golden Tate, and Mike Kafka was pegged for the 7th round.
- UMASS guard Vladimir Ducasse, who went to the Jets in the second round, had a fourth-round grade on the Cowboys' board.
- The names next to Denver and Miami's placards are obscured by Jones' left arm, but presumably one of them reads "Dez Bryant", who the Cowboys traded up to select with the 24th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
The author, "JBell5323", deduces that the columns represent the round the Cowboys graded each player, as they've written down where each of those of players were taken, and by whom. Interesting stuff, if you're into that sort of thing.
Some observations, provided this truly reflects the Cowboys' draft board:
- The Cowboys appear to have had Gerald McCoy rated ahead of Ndamukong Suh, and Russell Okung ahead of Trent Williams.
- Dallas had a first-round grade on Cal defensive tackle Tyson Alualu and running back Jahvid Best, as well as on San Francisco 49ers linebacker Navorro Bowman (Penn State).
- Rutgers offensive tackle Anthony Davis had a third-round grade. (He went 11th overall to SF)
- Michigan defensive end Brandon Graham had a second-round grade, as did fellow first-rounders Jerry Hughes, Kareem Jackson, Ryan Mathews, Devin McCourty, Demaryius Thomas, and Dan Williams.
- Jimmy Clausen and Taylor Mays had a second-round grade, while Colt McCoy had a third-round grade, as did Notre Dame wide receiver Golden Tate, and Mike Kafka was pegged for the 7th round.
- UMASS guard Vladimir Ducasse, who went to the Jets in the second round, had a fourth-round grade on the Cowboys' board.
- The names next to Denver and Miami's placards are obscured by Jones' left arm, but presumably one of them reads "Dez Bryant", who the Cowboys traded up to select with the 24th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.
Darren Sharper Begins Free Agent Tour
Free agent safety Darren Sharper is beginning to make the free agent rounds, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Schefter reports that Sharper's tour will begin with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and that he could be headed to the Dallas Cowboys, as well. Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports that the Washington Redskins and Miami Dolphins may also be in the mix for Sharper's services.
Sharper, 34, had a Pro Bowl season with the New Orleans Saints in 2009, totaling 71 tackles and tying for the league lead in interceptions with 9, helping the Saints win their first Super Bowl in franchise history.
New Orleans has expressed interest in bringing Sharper back for the 2010 season.
A second-round pick out of William & Mary by the Green Bay Packers in 1997, Sharper has 63 interceptions, and 11 touchdowns, during a 14-year career with the Packers (1997-2004), Minnesota Vikings (2005-08) and Saints (2009).
The five-time Pro Bowler was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 2000s in January, and is coming off knee surgery.
Schefter reports that Sharper's tour will begin with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and that he could be headed to the Dallas Cowboys, as well. Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports that the Washington Redskins and Miami Dolphins may also be in the mix for Sharper's services.
Sharper, 34, had a Pro Bowl season with the New Orleans Saints in 2009, totaling 71 tackles and tying for the league lead in interceptions with 9, helping the Saints win their first Super Bowl in franchise history.
New Orleans has expressed interest in bringing Sharper back for the 2010 season.
A second-round pick out of William & Mary by the Green Bay Packers in 1997, Sharper has 63 interceptions, and 11 touchdowns, during a 14-year career with the Packers (1997-2004), Minnesota Vikings (2005-08) and Saints (2009).
The five-time Pro Bowler was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 2000s in January, and is coming off knee surgery.
NFL News and Notes - April 28, 2010
Miami Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland apologized to Dallas Cowboys first-round wide receier Dez Bryant for asking if his mother was ever a prostitute during their pre-draft visit.
New England Patriots fourth-round tight end Aaron Hernandez responded to a Boston Globe report that he failed multiple drug tests while at the University of Florida.
The Buffalo Bills' 2010 draft class is receiving mixed reviews nationally, reports Allen Wilson of the Buffalo News.
New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum consulted with quarterback Mark Sanchez before the team selected USC running back Joe McKnight, reports Manish Mehta of the Newark Star-Ledger.
Baltimore Ravens second-round linebacker Sergio Kindle got a passing grade from the team's medical staff.
The Pittsburgh Steelers added a handful of rookie linebackers over the last few days.
Free agent safety Ken Hamlin is visiting the Cincinnati Bengals.
Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star isn't sure when Indianapolis Colts restricted free agent safety Antoine Bethea will sign his one-year tender.
Tennessee Titans Pro Bowl running back Chris Johnson was not present for the start of the team's OTA sessions.
With the Jacksonville Jaguars' release of John Henderson, there are only two players remaining from the Tom Coughlin Era.
Like the team's four first-round picks before him, Houston Texans first-round cornerback Kareem Jackson is expected to start immediately, writes John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.
Kansas City Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli discussed his team's selections with Clark Judge of CBSSports.com.
Denver Broncos first-round quarterback Tim Tebow jerseys are selling like hotcakes.
Free agent kicker Nick Novak has signed with the San Diego Chargers.
The Oakland Raiders are preparing to release quarterback and former #1 pick JaMarcus Russell. (And Vittorio Tafur takes a few jabs at ESPN, as well)
A pair of San Jose State alums will participate in the San Francisco 49ers rookie mini-camp on a tryout basis, reports Matthew Barrows of the Sacramento Bee.
Seattle Seahawks left tackle Walter Jones made it look easy, writes Steve Kelley of the Seattle Times.
Free agent guard Alan Faneca agreed to a one-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals on Tuesday.
St. Louis Rams restricted free agent offensive tackle Alex Barron plans to sign his one-year tender, reports Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
New Orleans Saints fullback Heath Evans is hosting a charity softball game tonight, which several Saints, including Drew Brees and Reggie Bush, expected to participate in.
Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times takes a preliminary look at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' depth chart.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution introduces Atlanta Falcons fifth-round wide receiver Kerry Meier.
The Carolina Panthers traded safety Chris Harris to the Chicago Bears in exchange for linebacker Jamar Williams on Tuesday.
Washington Redskins tight end Chris Cooley was pulled over by police on Tuesday while doing a live spot on a D.C. radio station.
In addition to claiming guard Shawn Murphy off waivers from the Buccaneers, the Philadelphia Eagles signed three more undrafted free agents on Tuesday.
Gary Myers of the New York Daily News reports the New York Giants are interested in free agent defensive tackle John Henderson.
Undrafted University of New Hampshire tight end Scott Sicko agreed to terms with a persistent Dallas Cowboys' front office.
Chicago Bears director of college scouting Greg Gabriel will not be back with the organization, opening the door for Tim Ruskell to re-join his friend Jerry Angelo, the Bears' general manager.
Green Bay Packers undrafted rookie cornerback Sam Shields' special teams prowess may earn him a roster spot, writes Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Mark Craig of the Star Tribune looks at the affect Minnesota Vikings defensive tackles Pat and Kevin Williams' StarCaps case could have on anti-doping policies.
Detroit Lions seventh-round defensive end Willie Young has some pass-rush potential, writes Tim Twentyman of the Detroit News.
Today's NFL birthdays: Browns linebacker Scott Fujita (31), Broncos nose tackle Jamal Williams (34), Chiefs defensive end Alex Magee (23), Vikings defensive end Brian Robison (27), Chargers quarterback Billy Volek (34), and free agents running back Christian Morton (29) and wide receiver James Thrash (35).
New England Patriots fourth-round tight end Aaron Hernandez responded to a Boston Globe report that he failed multiple drug tests while at the University of Florida.
The Buffalo Bills' 2010 draft class is receiving mixed reviews nationally, reports Allen Wilson of the Buffalo News.
New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum consulted with quarterback Mark Sanchez before the team selected USC running back Joe McKnight, reports Manish Mehta of the Newark Star-Ledger.
Baltimore Ravens second-round linebacker Sergio Kindle got a passing grade from the team's medical staff.
The Pittsburgh Steelers added a handful of rookie linebackers over the last few days.
Free agent safety Ken Hamlin is visiting the Cincinnati Bengals.
Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star isn't sure when Indianapolis Colts restricted free agent safety Antoine Bethea will sign his one-year tender.
Tennessee Titans Pro Bowl running back Chris Johnson was not present for the start of the team's OTA sessions.
With the Jacksonville Jaguars' release of John Henderson, there are only two players remaining from the Tom Coughlin Era.
Like the team's four first-round picks before him, Houston Texans first-round cornerback Kareem Jackson is expected to start immediately, writes John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.
Kansas City Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli discussed his team's selections with Clark Judge of CBSSports.com.
Denver Broncos first-round quarterback Tim Tebow jerseys are selling like hotcakes.
Free agent kicker Nick Novak has signed with the San Diego Chargers.
The Oakland Raiders are preparing to release quarterback and former #1 pick JaMarcus Russell. (And Vittorio Tafur takes a few jabs at ESPN, as well)
A pair of San Jose State alums will participate in the San Francisco 49ers rookie mini-camp on a tryout basis, reports Matthew Barrows of the Sacramento Bee.
Seattle Seahawks left tackle Walter Jones made it look easy, writes Steve Kelley of the Seattle Times.
Free agent guard Alan Faneca agreed to a one-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals on Tuesday.
St. Louis Rams restricted free agent offensive tackle Alex Barron plans to sign his one-year tender, reports Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
New Orleans Saints fullback Heath Evans is hosting a charity softball game tonight, which several Saints, including Drew Brees and Reggie Bush, expected to participate in.
Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times takes a preliminary look at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' depth chart.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution introduces Atlanta Falcons fifth-round wide receiver Kerry Meier.
The Carolina Panthers traded safety Chris Harris to the Chicago Bears in exchange for linebacker Jamar Williams on Tuesday.
Washington Redskins tight end Chris Cooley was pulled over by police on Tuesday while doing a live spot on a D.C. radio station.
In addition to claiming guard Shawn Murphy off waivers from the Buccaneers, the Philadelphia Eagles signed three more undrafted free agents on Tuesday.
Gary Myers of the New York Daily News reports the New York Giants are interested in free agent defensive tackle John Henderson.
Undrafted University of New Hampshire tight end Scott Sicko agreed to terms with a persistent Dallas Cowboys' front office.
Chicago Bears director of college scouting Greg Gabriel will not be back with the organization, opening the door for Tim Ruskell to re-join his friend Jerry Angelo, the Bears' general manager.
Green Bay Packers undrafted rookie cornerback Sam Shields' special teams prowess may earn him a roster spot, writes Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Mark Craig of the Star Tribune looks at the affect Minnesota Vikings defensive tackles Pat and Kevin Williams' StarCaps case could have on anti-doping policies.
Detroit Lions seventh-round defensive end Willie Young has some pass-rush potential, writes Tim Twentyman of the Detroit News.
Today's NFL birthdays: Browns linebacker Scott Fujita (31), Broncos nose tackle Jamal Williams (34), Chiefs defensive end Alex Magee (23), Vikings defensive end Brian Robison (27), Chargers quarterback Billy Volek (34), and free agents running back Christian Morton (29) and wide receiver James Thrash (35).
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Chargers Sign FA Kicker Nick Novak
Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post reports the San Diego Chargers have signed free agent kicker Nick Novak.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
An undrafted free agent out of Maryland, Novak is 19-for-30 (63.3%) on his field goal attempts during a 22-game career with the Washington Redskins (2005, 2006), Arizona Cardinals (2005), and Kansas City Chiefs (2008).
Novak entered the NFL in 2005 with the Chicago Bears, but was waived after converting on all three of his field goal attempts. Novak briefly joined the Dallas Cowboys that pre-season, and was 1-for-2 on field goals. The Redskins signed Novak in Week 2, and he handled the kicking duties for six weeks while John Hall recovered from an injury.
Released by the Redskins, Novak joined the Cardinals, connecting on all three of his field goal attempts, but was primarily employed as a kickoff specialist. Re-signed by the Redskins the following season, Novak replaced Hall midway through the season, but struggled, converting on just 50% of his field goals before he was replaced by Shaun Suisham.
Novak went to training camp the following season with the Chicago Bears, but could not land a job with an NFL team after the pre-season. In 2008, Novak won the Kansas City Chiefs' kicking competition during training camp, but was released midway through the season and hasn't kicked in an NFL game since.
In a bid to replace Suisham, Novak worked out for the Redskins last December, but the job was given to Graham Gano.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
An undrafted free agent out of Maryland, Novak is 19-for-30 (63.3%) on his field goal attempts during a 22-game career with the Washington Redskins (2005, 2006), Arizona Cardinals (2005), and Kansas City Chiefs (2008).
Novak entered the NFL in 2005 with the Chicago Bears, but was waived after converting on all three of his field goal attempts. Novak briefly joined the Dallas Cowboys that pre-season, and was 1-for-2 on field goals. The Redskins signed Novak in Week 2, and he handled the kicking duties for six weeks while John Hall recovered from an injury.
Released by the Redskins, Novak joined the Cardinals, connecting on all three of his field goal attempts, but was primarily employed as a kickoff specialist. Re-signed by the Redskins the following season, Novak replaced Hall midway through the season, but struggled, converting on just 50% of his field goals before he was replaced by Shaun Suisham.
Novak went to training camp the following season with the Chicago Bears, but could not land a job with an NFL team after the pre-season. In 2008, Novak won the Kansas City Chiefs' kicking competition during training camp, but was released midway through the season and hasn't kicked in an NFL game since.
In a bid to replace Suisham, Novak worked out for the Redskins last December, but the job was given to Graham Gano.
Eagles Claim G Shawn Murphy
The Philadelphia Eagles announced that they have claimed guard Shawn Murphy off waivers. Murphy was waived by the Buccaneers on Monday, and is signed through the 2011 season.
Murphy (6-4, 314) was a fourth-round pick (110th overall) out of Utah State by the Miami Dolphins in 2008. Murphy did not appear in a regular season game for the Dolphins, and was waived in the early part of the 2009 season. Claimed by the Buccaneers, Murphy appeared in one game last season.
The Eagles also announced that they have signed undrafted free agents Keithon Flemming (RB, West Texas A&M), Eric Moncur (DE, Miami), and Devin Ross (CB, Arizona), bringing their total haul of undrafted free agents to 14.
Murphy (6-4, 314) was a fourth-round pick (110th overall) out of Utah State by the Miami Dolphins in 2008. Murphy did not appear in a regular season game for the Dolphins, and was waived in the early part of the 2009 season. Claimed by the Buccaneers, Murphy appeared in one game last season.
The Eagles also announced that they have signed undrafted free agents Keithon Flemming (RB, West Texas A&M), Eric Moncur (DE, Miami), and Devin Ross (CB, Arizona), bringing their total haul of undrafted free agents to 14.
Cardinals Reach One-Year Deal With G Alan Faneca
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports free agent guard Alan Faneca has agreed to a one-year, $2.5 million dollar contract with the Arizona Cardinals.
According to Schefter, the entire contract is guaranteed.
A first-round pick (26th overall) out of LSU by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1998, Faneca has started 185 of his 190 games in the NFL. A nine-time Pro Bowler (2001-09) and six-time first-team All-Pro, including after the 2009 season, Faneca was named to the NFL's All-Decade team for the 2000s on January 31, 2010.
Faneca (6-5, 307) signed a five-year, $40 million dollar contract with the New York Jets after the 2007 season. Including the three post-season games last season, Faneca started all 35 games the Jets played over the last two seasons.
Faneca was released by the Jets on Monday, receiving $5.25 million dollars of the $7.5 million dollar 2010 base salary he was supposed to earn this season. Combined with his new deal with the Cardinals, Faneca will bank $7.75 million dollars in total compensation this season.
By signing with the Cardinals, Faneca reunites with Ken Whisenhunt, the Cardinals' head coach and former Steelers' offensive coordinator, and his old offensive line coach, Russ Grimm. Faneca can be expected to supplant Reggie Wells as the starting left guard.
According to Schefter, the entire contract is guaranteed.
A first-round pick (26th overall) out of LSU by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1998, Faneca has started 185 of his 190 games in the NFL. A nine-time Pro Bowler (2001-09) and six-time first-team All-Pro, including after the 2009 season, Faneca was named to the NFL's All-Decade team for the 2000s on January 31, 2010.
Faneca (6-5, 307) signed a five-year, $40 million dollar contract with the New York Jets after the 2007 season. Including the three post-season games last season, Faneca started all 35 games the Jets played over the last two seasons.
Faneca was released by the Jets on Monday, receiving $5.25 million dollars of the $7.5 million dollar 2010 base salary he was supposed to earn this season. Combined with his new deal with the Cardinals, Faneca will bank $7.75 million dollars in total compensation this season.
By signing with the Cardinals, Faneca reunites with Ken Whisenhunt, the Cardinals' head coach and former Steelers' offensive coordinator, and his old offensive line coach, Russ Grimm. Faneca can be expected to supplant Reggie Wells as the starting left guard.
Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez Responds to Boston Globe Report
New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez has responded to Albert Breer's report in the Boston Globe that he failed multiple drug tests while at the University of Florida.
In statement released by the Patriots:
"Leading up to the draft, I provided every interested NFL team with all the information asked of me about football and my personal life. I was as candid as I could possibly be about everything, including my one single violation of the team’s substance testing policy over the course of three years at the University of Florida. That is why I was very surprised and disappointed by the recent inaccurate report of additional violations. I regret what happened, I learned from it and will make better decisions going forward. I couldn’t be more excited about beginning my NFL career and representing the New England Patriots well."
Breer is standing by his initial report.
In statement released by the Patriots:
"Leading up to the draft, I provided every interested NFL team with all the information asked of me about football and my personal life. I was as candid as I could possibly be about everything, including my one single violation of the team’s substance testing policy over the course of three years at the University of Florida. That is why I was very surprised and disappointed by the recent inaccurate report of additional violations. I regret what happened, I learned from it and will make better decisions going forward. I couldn’t be more excited about beginning my NFL career and representing the New England Patriots well."
Breer is standing by his initial report.
Bengals Claim Cedric Peerman Off Waivers
The Cincinnati Bengals have been awarded running back Cedric Peerman off waivers from the Detroit Lions.
Peerman was chosen in the sixth-round (185th overall) out of Virginia by the Baltimore Ravens. After rushing for 40 yards (on 14 carries) and a touchdown, and catching 4 passes for 42 yards during the pre-season, Peerman was waived and claimed by the Cleveland Browns, who would waive and re-sign him to the practice squad two weeks later.
Detroit signed Peerman to their practice squad in Week 8, and added him to their 53-man roster in Week 15. Peerman was active for two games last season, but did not make the stat sheet.
The Lions waived Peerman on Monday.
Peerman was chosen in the sixth-round (185th overall) out of Virginia by the Baltimore Ravens. After rushing for 40 yards (on 14 carries) and a touchdown, and catching 4 passes for 42 yards during the pre-season, Peerman was waived and claimed by the Cleveland Browns, who would waive and re-sign him to the practice squad two weeks later.
Detroit signed Peerman to their practice squad in Week 8, and added him to their 53-man roster in Week 15. Peerman was active for two games last season, but did not make the stat sheet.
The Lions waived Peerman on Monday.
Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland Apologizes to Dez Bryant
Miami Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland called Dallas Cowboys first-round wide receiver Dez Bryant this afternoon to apologize for asking Bryant if his mother was ever a prostitute.
"My job is to find out as much information as possible about a player that I'm consider drafting," Ireland said in a statement. "Sometimes that leads to asking in-depth questions.
"Having said that, I talked to Dez Bryant and told him I used poor judgment in one of the questions I asked him. I certainly meant to disrespect and apologized to him.
"I appreciate his acceptance of that apology and I told him I wished him well as he embarks on his NFL career."
News of Ireland's inappropriate line of questioning was initially reported by Yahoo's Michael Silver.
"My job is to find out as much information as possible about a player that I'm consider drafting," Ireland said in a statement. "Sometimes that leads to asking in-depth questions.
"Having said that, I talked to Dez Bryant and told him I used poor judgment in one of the questions I asked him. I certainly meant to disrespect and apologized to him.
"I appreciate his acceptance of that apology and I told him I wished him well as he embarks on his NFL career."
News of Ireland's inappropriate line of questioning was initially reported by Yahoo's Michael Silver.
Cowboys Re-Sign OL Montrae Holland
The Dallas Cowboys have re-signed veteran guard Montrae Holland, reports Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News.
Financial terms were not disclosed, but the contract length is two years.
Drafted in the fourth-round (102nd overall) out of Florida State by the New Orleans Saints in 2003, Holland started 30 games for the Saints in his first three seasons in the NFL before playing a back-up role in 2006. Signed as a free agent by the Denver Broncos in 2007, Holland started all 16 games his first year with the Broncos, and earned a 2-year, $5 million dollar contract extension the following off-season.
The Broncos traded Holland to the Cowboys for a fifth-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, and the 6-2, 322-pound Holland appeared in 7 games over the last two seasons, making three starts in 2008.
The fifth-round pick the Broncos received from the Cowboys was traded to New England, who traded it to Oakland, who traded it to Jacksonville, who traded it to New Orleans, who used it on Boston College center Matt Tennant.
Financial terms were not disclosed, but the contract length is two years.
Drafted in the fourth-round (102nd overall) out of Florida State by the New Orleans Saints in 2003, Holland started 30 games for the Saints in his first three seasons in the NFL before playing a back-up role in 2006. Signed as a free agent by the Denver Broncos in 2007, Holland started all 16 games his first year with the Broncos, and earned a 2-year, $5 million dollar contract extension the following off-season.
The Broncos traded Holland to the Cowboys for a fifth-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, and the 6-2, 322-pound Holland appeared in 7 games over the last two seasons, making three starts in 2008.
The fifth-round pick the Broncos received from the Cowboys was traded to New England, who traded it to Oakland, who traded it to Jacksonville, who traded it to New Orleans, who used it on Boston College center Matt Tennant.
Bears-Panthers Trade Official
Multiple news outlets are reporting that the Chicago Bears have officially (re)acquired safety Chris Harris from the Carolina Panthers in exchange for restricted free agent linebacker Jamar Williams.
Harris, 27, was a sixth-round pick by the Bears in 2005, and was traded to the Panthers for a 2008 fifth-round pick. In 69 career games over the last five seasons, Harris has 338 tackles, 1 quarterback sack, 10 interceptions, and 22 pass break-ups.
Williams was a fourth-round pick by the Bears in 2006, and the restricted free agent was tendered at the "Original Round" level this off-season. Williams has been active for 51 games, totaling 89 tackles, 1 quarterback sack, and 5 pass break-ups. 24 of Williams' tackles have come on special teams.
Williams is signed through 2010 with a base salary of $1.176 million dollars, while Harris signed a five-year, $13.1 million dollar contract extension in 2008.
Both players are expected to re-work their current contracts, and according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Harris already has, cutting the three years remaining on his current contract down to two years, with a $500,000 roster bonus due on March 5, 2011.
Harris, 27, was a sixth-round pick by the Bears in 2005, and was traded to the Panthers for a 2008 fifth-round pick. In 69 career games over the last five seasons, Harris has 338 tackles, 1 quarterback sack, 10 interceptions, and 22 pass break-ups.
Williams was a fourth-round pick by the Bears in 2006, and the restricted free agent was tendered at the "Original Round" level this off-season. Williams has been active for 51 games, totaling 89 tackles, 1 quarterback sack, and 5 pass break-ups. 24 of Williams' tackles have come on special teams.
Williams is signed through 2010 with a base salary of $1.176 million dollars, while Harris signed a five-year, $13.1 million dollar contract extension in 2008.
Both players are expected to re-work their current contracts, and according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Harris already has, cutting the three years remaining on his current contract down to two years, with a $500,000 roster bonus due on March 5, 2011.
Ruskell on the Bears' Radar
After months of denials, former Seattle Seahawks president/general manager Tim Ruskell is on the Chicago Bears' radar screen, Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
Ruskell could move in as a replacement for Bobby DePaul, the team's Director of Pro Personnel who was fired in February.
The Bears have informed Director of College Scouting Greg Gabriel that they will not renew his contract when it expires next month, and Jensen adds that area scout Chris Ballard could be in line for a promotion.
Ruskell could move in as a replacement for Bobby DePaul, the team's Director of Pro Personnel who was fired in February.
The Bears have informed Director of College Scouting Greg Gabriel that they will not renew his contract when it expires next month, and Jensen adds that area scout Chris Ballard could be in line for a promotion.
Titans RB Chris Johnson Not at OTAs
Today was the start of the Tennessee Titans organized team activity (OTA) sessions, and Pro Bowl running back Chris Johnson was not there, Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports.
Coming off a 2,000-yard rushing season, Johnson still has three seasons remaining on his five-year rookie contract. Johnson is set to earn a base salary of $550,000 this season, and not only would he like to earn a new contract, he'd like one that made him the highest-paid offensive player in the National Football League. (Peyton Manning is currently the game's highest paid player, with a base salary of $15.8 million dollars in 2010.)
Complicating any contract talks between the two sides is the "30% rule", which limits the amount in which base salaries in renegotiated contracts can increase over the previous year's salary. For the Titans to come anywhere close to meeting Johnson's contract demands, they would have to pay him an enormous signing bonus, which circumvents the 30% rule, but his base salary cannot be changed, as it's already a 30% increase over what he earned last season.
Coming off a 2,000-yard rushing season, Johnson still has three seasons remaining on his five-year rookie contract. Johnson is set to earn a base salary of $550,000 this season, and not only would he like to earn a new contract, he'd like one that made him the highest-paid offensive player in the National Football League. (Peyton Manning is currently the game's highest paid player, with a base salary of $15.8 million dollars in 2010.)
Complicating any contract talks between the two sides is the "30% rule", which limits the amount in which base salaries in renegotiated contracts can increase over the previous year's salary. For the Titans to come anywhere close to meeting Johnson's contract demands, they would have to pay him an enormous signing bonus, which circumvents the 30% rule, but his base salary cannot be changed, as it's already a 30% increase over what he earned last season.
Bears Will Not Renew Director of College Scouting's Contract
Chicago Bears director of college scouting Greg Gabriel will be let go, reports Neil Hayes of the Chicago Sun-Times.
UPDATE: Earlier report indicated Gabriel had been fired. That is not correct. His contract expires next month, and the team will not renew.
Sean Jensen of the Sun-Times finds it "odd" since Gabriel was presented to the media following the draft.
In February, the Bears fired director of pro personnel Bobby DePaul, and WSCR in Chicago reported that Gabriel was likely to join DePaul. The departures of both executives now opens the door for the Bears to hire former Seattle Seahawks general manager Tim Ruskell, who is close friends with Bears general manager Jerry Angelo.
In fact, Angelo was the Director of Player Personnel for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1987-2000 before becoming the Bears' general manager in 2001. Ruskell also joined the Buccaneers' personnel department in 1987, and replaced Angelo as the Buccaneers' Director of Player Personnel before following Rick McKay to the Atlanta Falcons in 2004.
UPDATE: Earlier report indicated Gabriel had been fired. That is not correct. His contract expires next month, and the team will not renew.
Sean Jensen of the Sun-Times finds it "odd" since Gabriel was presented to the media following the draft.
In February, the Bears fired director of pro personnel Bobby DePaul, and WSCR in Chicago reported that Gabriel was likely to join DePaul. The departures of both executives now opens the door for the Bears to hire former Seattle Seahawks general manager Tim Ruskell, who is close friends with Bears general manager Jerry Angelo.
In fact, Angelo was the Director of Player Personnel for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1987-2000 before becoming the Bears' general manager in 2001. Ruskell also joined the Buccaneers' personnel department in 1987, and replaced Angelo as the Buccaneers' Director of Player Personnel before following Rick McKay to the Atlanta Falcons in 2004.
Yahoo's Michael Silver Shines Light on Dolphins' Arrogance
Mike Silver of Yahoo! Sports reports that during a pre-draft visit with the Miami Dolphins, Oklahoma State wide receiver Dez Bryant was allegedly asked by general manager Jeff Ireland if his mother was a prostitute.
"Last Wednesday, the night before he was selected 24th overall by the Cowboys, former Oklahoma State wide receiver Dez Bryant(notes) told me that during one of his predraft visits, a high-level executive of one NFL franchise had asked him if his mother, Angela, was a prostitute.Silver goes to list more bizarre behavior from the Dolphins and other organizations, but as for what Ireland allegedly asked Bryant, I'll say this: If Ireland did ask that question, Bryant has far more restraint and maturity than he's been given credit for.
'No, my mom is not a prostitute,' said Bryant, whose background – including his mother’s lifestyle and past legal troubles – was under great scrutiny prior to the draft. 'I got mad – really mad – but I didn’t show it.'
I’ve since been told by a source close to Bryant that Ireland was the person who asked the question during a meeting in the GM’s office.
On Monday, Ireland declined to comment on the allegation. Harvey Greene, the Dolphins’ senior vice president of media relations, said: 'It’s our organizational policy that we don’t discuss publicly the process we use to evaluate potential draft choices.'"
Panthers Safety Chris Harris Tweets Trade to Chicago
Carolina Panthers safety Chris Harris announced on Twitter that he's being traded to the Chicago Bears.
"Breaking News- I will be traded to Chicago Bears. Carolina u have been great and deeply missed. I have a special place in my heart for you", Harris posted early Tuesday afternoon.
A sixth-round pick by the Bears in 2005, Harris has started all 44 of his games since he was traded to the Panthers in 2007 in exchange for a fifth-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. Harris has totaled 226 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 14 passes defensed for the Panthers
Harris tells Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune that the trade is not official, but will be soon, and that a veteran linebacker may be headed from the Bears to the Panthers.
"Breaking News- I will be traded to Chicago Bears. Carolina u have been great and deeply missed. I have a special place in my heart for you", Harris posted early Tuesday afternoon.
A sixth-round pick by the Bears in 2005, Harris has started all 44 of his games since he was traded to the Panthers in 2007 in exchange for a fifth-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. Harris has totaled 226 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 14 passes defensed for the Panthers
Harris tells Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune that the trade is not official, but will be soon, and that a veteran linebacker may be headed from the Bears to the Panthers.
Sicko Agrees to Terms With Cowboys
Undrafted University of New Hampshire tight end Scott Sicko, who told NFL teams that he was going to forgo an NFL career to focus on his studies after not being drafted in the 2010 NFL Draft, has changed his mind and has agreed to terms with the Dallas Cowboys, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
Sicko (6-4, 250) caught 52 passes for 725 yards and 9 touchdowns for the Wildcats last season, and with his size, speed, and athleticism, a handful of NFL teams had contacted him on Saturday about signing a free agent contract, including the Dallas Cowboys.
Sicko declined the contract offers, explaining that he was going to further his education, which earned the praise of Sports Illustrated's Peter King.
"It's nice, in the midst of a weekend when football seems more important than breathing to some, that we have a different kind of role model for our kids. I hope they read everything Scott Sicko just said here.", King wrote in his MMQB column on Monday.
Terms of Sicko's contract were not disclosed, but he likely fetched a signing bonus in the neighborhood of $25,000, which was the highest bonus paid out last season, and is what Penn State offensive tackle Dennis Landolt received from the New York Giants.
Sicko (6-4, 250) caught 52 passes for 725 yards and 9 touchdowns for the Wildcats last season, and with his size, speed, and athleticism, a handful of NFL teams had contacted him on Saturday about signing a free agent contract, including the Dallas Cowboys.
Sicko declined the contract offers, explaining that he was going to further his education, which earned the praise of Sports Illustrated's Peter King.
"It's nice, in the midst of a weekend when football seems more important than breathing to some, that we have a different kind of role model for our kids. I hope they read everything Scott Sicko just said here.", King wrote in his MMQB column on Monday.
Terms of Sicko's contract were not disclosed, but he likely fetched a signing bonus in the neighborhood of $25,000, which was the highest bonus paid out last season, and is what Penn State offensive tackle Dennis Landolt received from the New York Giants.
Joe Browne Stepping Down as NFL's VP of Communications
National Football League Executive Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs Joe Browne is stepping down after 45 years in the league office, Daniel Kaplan of Sports Business Journal reports.
Kaplan adds that Greg Aiello is expected to replace him.
On Twitter, Browne wrote "I thk it's important in one's career that evry 45 yrs or so u change ur role. We told staff yesterday that's what i was doing. I'm staying on fulltime but now have opp to re-focus on issues, esp legislative in Wash, that r imp 2 NFL and interesting 2 me. Roger G. has been great about it, and i look forward to continuing to try to make pos difference for NFL."
Kaplan adds that Greg Aiello is expected to replace him.
On Twitter, Browne wrote "I thk it's important in one's career that evry 45 yrs or so u change ur role. We told staff yesterday that's what i was doing. I'm staying on fulltime but now have opp to re-focus on issues, esp legislative in Wash, that r imp 2 NFL and interesting 2 me. Roger G. has been great about it, and i look forward to continuing to try to make pos difference for NFL."
Nothing Imminent Between Jets, Adalius Thomas
Speaking on WFAN, New York Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum confirmed the team is interested in free agent linebacker Adalius Thomas, but that nothing is imminent between the two sides.
"Maybe down the line, but nothing really imminent right now," Tannenbaum said of the team's pursuit of Thomas, according to Manish Mehta of the Newark Star-Ledger. "We're going to stand pat with what we have. Maybe down line add a player or two. Nothing on the horizon."
Thomas was released by the New England Patriots on Monday, and was a productive player in a Baltimore Ravens defense when Jets head coach Rex Ryan was the defensive coordinator.
In his 7 seasons with the Ravens, Thomas started 74 of 96 games, totaling 371 tackles, 38.5 quarterback sacks, 6 interceptions, and 13 forced fumbles, and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2006.
"Maybe down the line, but nothing really imminent right now," Tannenbaum said of the team's pursuit of Thomas, according to Manish Mehta of the Newark Star-Ledger. "We're going to stand pat with what we have. Maybe down line add a player or two. Nothing on the horizon."
Thomas was released by the New England Patriots on Monday, and was a productive player in a Baltimore Ravens defense when Jets head coach Rex Ryan was the defensive coordinator.
In his 7 seasons with the Ravens, Thomas started 74 of 96 games, totaling 371 tackles, 38.5 quarterback sacks, 6 interceptions, and 13 forced fumbles, and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2006.
Contract Talks Blocked Potential Merriman Trade
The San Diego Chargers shopped outside linebacker Shawne Merriman over the weekend, Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post reports, but talks between prospective teams and Merriman's representatives on a long-term contract extension stalled.
Wilson reports that two, unidentified teams were interested in acquiring Merriman from the Chargers, who are still open to a trade.
Merriman totaled 187 tackles, including 39.5 quarterback sacks, and 8 forced fumbles during his first three seasons in the league, earning trips to the Pro Bowl each year and establishing himself as one of the most dominant young defensive players in the game. A knee injury limited Merriman to just one game in 2008, and Merriman was held to just 39 tackles and four quarterback sacks in 14 games last season.
A restricted free agents tendered at the "First- and Third-Round Level", Merriman cannot be traded until he signs his one-year tender, which would pay Merriman $3.269 million dollars in 2010.
Merriman has signed an "Injury Protection" waiver and is participating in the team's off-season workout program.
Should the Chargers trade Merriman, 2009 first-round pick Larry English, veteran Jyles Tucker, and 2010 third-round pick Donald Butler would compete for pass-rushing opportunities opposite Shaun Phillips.
Wilson reports that two, unidentified teams were interested in acquiring Merriman from the Chargers, who are still open to a trade.
Merriman totaled 187 tackles, including 39.5 quarterback sacks, and 8 forced fumbles during his first three seasons in the league, earning trips to the Pro Bowl each year and establishing himself as one of the most dominant young defensive players in the game. A knee injury limited Merriman to just one game in 2008, and Merriman was held to just 39 tackles and four quarterback sacks in 14 games last season.
A restricted free agents tendered at the "First- and Third-Round Level", Merriman cannot be traded until he signs his one-year tender, which would pay Merriman $3.269 million dollars in 2010.
Merriman has signed an "Injury Protection" waiver and is participating in the team's off-season workout program.
Should the Chargers trade Merriman, 2009 first-round pick Larry English, veteran Jyles Tucker, and 2010 third-round pick Donald Butler would compete for pass-rushing opportunities opposite Shaun Phillips.
LenDale White Steers Stafon Johnson to Tennessee
Unhappy with his reduced role in the offense, running back LenDale White's wish was granted on Saturday, when the Tennessee Titans used him to improve their draft positioning in the fourth- and sixth-rounds of the 2010 NFL Draft by trading him to the Seattle Seahawks.
White repaid the favor by selling the Titans on USC running back Stafon Johnson, who had several teams interested in signing him as a priority free agent after the draft.
"I asked (White), 'What should I do?' He said he felt like Tennessee would be a great opportunity for me, and I felt the same way," Johnson told Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean. "He is like my big brother and I confided in him about different things and he gave me some good advice. He said for me, Tennessee would be great, that it’s a great place."
My good pal Doug Farrar profiled Johnson for the Washington Post in March, and if you're not rooting for this kid, or are not inspired by his courageous comeback from a near-death experience, there might be something wrong with you.
White repaid the favor by selling the Titans on USC running back Stafon Johnson, who had several teams interested in signing him as a priority free agent after the draft.
"I asked (White), 'What should I do?' He said he felt like Tennessee would be a great opportunity for me, and I felt the same way," Johnson told Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean. "He is like my big brother and I confided in him about different things and he gave me some good advice. He said for me, Tennessee would be great, that it’s a great place."
My good pal Doug Farrar profiled Johnson for the Washington Post in March, and if you're not rooting for this kid, or are not inspired by his courageous comeback from a near-death experience, there might be something wrong with you.
NFL News and Notes - April 27, 2010
New England Patriots fourth-round tight end Aaron Hernandez failed multiple drug tests at Florida.
Buffalo Bills fifth-round offensive tackle Ed Wang is the first full-blooded Chinese descendant to reach the NFL.
Released by the Patriots on Monday, free agent linebacker Adalius Thomas could end up with the New York Jets.
2010 could be the final season Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams are in the same backfield, writes Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald.
Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Michael Oher has a book deal.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will not appeal his suspension.
The Cleveland Browns addressed some holes, but are still a ways behind their AFC North rivals, writes Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer.
No safeties and a few reaches dropped the Cincinnati Bengals' draft grade on Ken Paxson of the Dayton Daily News' scorecard.
Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star grades the Indianapolis Colts' draft.
Undrafted USC running back Stafon Johnson was steered to the Tennessee Titans by LenDale White.
Four veteran defensive players, including defensive tackle John Henderson, were released by the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday.
Free agent tight end Michael Gaines officially signed with the Houston Texans on Monday.
Free agent defensive lineman John Henderson will visit the Kansas City Chiefs on Wednesday.
University of Colorado tight end Rian Geer headlines the list of 19 undrafted free agents who were signed by the Denver Broncos on Monday.
The San Diego Chargers added 20 undrafted free agents on Monday.
Free agent running back Rock Cartwright signed a one-year deal with the Oakland Raiders.
Jenny Vrentas of the Newark Star-Ledger has the full list of participants for the New York Giants' upcoming rookie mini-camp.
Of the eleven Philadelphia Eagles undrafted free agents, three play the offensive line.
Washington Redskins safety LaRon Landry clarified his comments about moving to linebacker.
Dallas Cowboys first-round wide receiver Dez Bryant has Rookie of the Year potential, writes Gerry Fraley of the Dallas Morning News.
BYU quarterback Max Hall headlines the Arizona Cardinals' list of 10 undrafted free agents who were signed on Monday.
Kevin Lynch of the San Francisco Chronicle posts the bios of the San Francisco 49ers' undrafted free agents.
Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider became a great team over the weekend, writes Jerry Brewer of the Seattle Times.
Free agent running back Brian Westbrook passed a physical with the St. Louis Rams and is mulling his options.
In addition to being chosen in the fourth round by the Chicago Bears this weekend, Northwestern defensive Corey Wootton got engaged this weekend, as well.
Green Bay Packers linebacker Jeremy Thompson announced his retirement on Monday.
Minnesota Vikings fifth-round linebacker Nathan Triplett gets to play for the team he grew up rooting for.
Detroit Lions linebacker Zach Follett is eager to reward the team for putting its faith in him.
LSU safety Harry Coleman highlights a list of 14 undrafted free agents signed by the New Orleans Saints.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers purged their roster on Monday, releasing veterans Chris Hovan, B.J. Askew, and Arron Sears, and three others.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution caught up with Atlanta Falcons third-round guard Mike Johnson.
Carolina Panthers second-round quarterback Jimmy Clausen chose the number 2.
Today's NFL birthdays: Buccaneers offensive tackle Donald Penn (27) and free agent offensive tackle Michael Toudouze (27)
Buffalo Bills fifth-round offensive tackle Ed Wang is the first full-blooded Chinese descendant to reach the NFL.
Released by the Patriots on Monday, free agent linebacker Adalius Thomas could end up with the New York Jets.
2010 could be the final season Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams are in the same backfield, writes Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald.
Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Michael Oher has a book deal.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will not appeal his suspension.
The Cleveland Browns addressed some holes, but are still a ways behind their AFC North rivals, writes Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer.
No safeties and a few reaches dropped the Cincinnati Bengals' draft grade on Ken Paxson of the Dayton Daily News' scorecard.
Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star grades the Indianapolis Colts' draft.
Undrafted USC running back Stafon Johnson was steered to the Tennessee Titans by LenDale White.
Four veteran defensive players, including defensive tackle John Henderson, were released by the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday.
Free agent tight end Michael Gaines officially signed with the Houston Texans on Monday.
Free agent defensive lineman John Henderson will visit the Kansas City Chiefs on Wednesday.
University of Colorado tight end Rian Geer headlines the list of 19 undrafted free agents who were signed by the Denver Broncos on Monday.
The San Diego Chargers added 20 undrafted free agents on Monday.
Free agent running back Rock Cartwright signed a one-year deal with the Oakland Raiders.
Jenny Vrentas of the Newark Star-Ledger has the full list of participants for the New York Giants' upcoming rookie mini-camp.
Of the eleven Philadelphia Eagles undrafted free agents, three play the offensive line.
Washington Redskins safety LaRon Landry clarified his comments about moving to linebacker.
Dallas Cowboys first-round wide receiver Dez Bryant has Rookie of the Year potential, writes Gerry Fraley of the Dallas Morning News.
BYU quarterback Max Hall headlines the Arizona Cardinals' list of 10 undrafted free agents who were signed on Monday.
Kevin Lynch of the San Francisco Chronicle posts the bios of the San Francisco 49ers' undrafted free agents.
Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider became a great team over the weekend, writes Jerry Brewer of the Seattle Times.
Free agent running back Brian Westbrook passed a physical with the St. Louis Rams and is mulling his options.
In addition to being chosen in the fourth round by the Chicago Bears this weekend, Northwestern defensive Corey Wootton got engaged this weekend, as well.
Green Bay Packers linebacker Jeremy Thompson announced his retirement on Monday.
Minnesota Vikings fifth-round linebacker Nathan Triplett gets to play for the team he grew up rooting for.
Detroit Lions linebacker Zach Follett is eager to reward the team for putting its faith in him.
LSU safety Harry Coleman highlights a list of 14 undrafted free agents signed by the New Orleans Saints.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers purged their roster on Monday, releasing veterans Chris Hovan, B.J. Askew, and Arron Sears, and three others.
D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution caught up with Atlanta Falcons third-round guard Mike Johnson.
Carolina Panthers second-round quarterback Jimmy Clausen chose the number 2.
Today's NFL birthdays: Buccaneers offensive tackle Donald Penn (27) and free agent offensive tackle Michael Toudouze (27)
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