Free agent defensive end Turk McBride has agreed to terms with the New Orleans Saints, Larry Holder of CBSSports.com reports.
A 2007 second-round pick out of Tennessee by the Kansas City Chiefs, the 6-foot-2, 278-pound McBride has 115 tackles and 7.5 quarterback sacks in 51 games with the Chiefs and Detroit Lions, who acquired him via waivers in 2009.
The Saints will need defensive end depth with Will Smith expected to serve a four-game suspension for violating the league's policy against performance-enhancing drugs.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Redskins Re-Sign OT Jammal Brown
Free agent offensive tackle Jammal Brown has re-signed with the Washington Redskins, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
Brown's deal spans five years and is worth $27.5 million with $8 million guaranteed, John Keim of the Washington Examiner reports.
A 2005 first-round pick out of Oklahoma by the New Orleans Saints, Brown is a two-time Pro Bowler who missed all of 2009 and was traded to the Redskins last offseason for a conditional draft choice.
Brown started 14 of 15 games at right tackle for the Redskins, a position he'll continue man, playing opposite 2010 first-round pick and fellow Sooner Trent Williams.
Brown's deal spans five years and is worth $27.5 million with $8 million guaranteed, John Keim of the Washington Examiner reports.
A 2005 first-round pick out of Oklahoma by the New Orleans Saints, Brown is a two-time Pro Bowler who missed all of 2009 and was traded to the Redskins last offseason for a conditional draft choice.
Brown started 14 of 15 games at right tackle for the Redskins, a position he'll continue man, playing opposite 2010 first-round pick and fellow Sooner Trent Williams.
Seahawks To Sign DT Ryan Sims
The Seattle Seahawks will sign free agent defensive tackle Ryan Sims, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
Terms were not disclosed.
Selected with the sixth overall pick of the 2002 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, Sims has 143 tackles and 8.5 quarterback sacks during his nine-year career, the last four of which was spent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Seahawks defensive coordinator Gus Bradley coached the Buccaneers linebackers at the start of Sims' tenure in Tampa, and first-year defensive line coach Todd Wash coached the Buccaneers defensive line the last three seasons.
Sims was released by the Buccaneers last November.
Terms were not disclosed.
Selected with the sixth overall pick of the 2002 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, Sims has 143 tackles and 8.5 quarterback sacks during his nine-year career, the last four of which was spent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Seahawks defensive coordinator Gus Bradley coached the Buccaneers linebackers at the start of Sims' tenure in Tampa, and first-year defensive line coach Todd Wash coached the Buccaneers defensive line the last three seasons.
Sims was released by the Buccaneers last November.
QB Derek Anderson To Work Out For Panthers
Free agent quarterback Derek Anderson has signed with the Carolina Panthers, Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian reports.
UPDATE: Darin Gantt of The Charlotte Observer tweets that Anderson is coming in for a workout.
The Oregon State product has completed 52.6% of his pass attempts for 9,148 yards with 53 touchdowns and 55 interceptions in his five-year career with the Cleveland Browns and Arizona Cardinals. Anderson went to the Pro Bowl in 2007, but has a completion percentage under 50% of the last three seasons and has just 19 touchdowns to offset his 28 interceptions.
Anderson, 28, signed a two-year, $7.25 million contract with the Cardinals last March, but was released last week as the club acquired quarterback Kevin Kolb from the Philadelphia Eagles.
The three quarterbacks under contract -- Cam Newton, Jimmy Clausen, and Tony Pike -- have an average age of 23.8 years.
UPDATE: Darin Gantt of The Charlotte Observer tweets that Anderson is coming in for a workout.
The Oregon State product has completed 52.6% of his pass attempts for 9,148 yards with 53 touchdowns and 55 interceptions in his five-year career with the Cleveland Browns and Arizona Cardinals. Anderson went to the Pro Bowl in 2007, but has a completion percentage under 50% of the last three seasons and has just 19 touchdowns to offset his 28 interceptions.
Anderson, 28, signed a two-year, $7.25 million contract with the Cardinals last March, but was released last week as the club acquired quarterback Kevin Kolb from the Philadelphia Eagles.
The three quarterbacks under contract -- Cam Newton, Jimmy Clausen, and Tony Pike -- have an average age of 23.8 years.
Cardinals Trade RB Tim Hightower To Redskins
Arizona Cardinals restricted free agent running back Tim Hightower has been traded to the Washington Redskins, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
In exchange for Hightower, the Cardinals will receive a conditional late-round draft choice and veteran defensive end Vonnie Holliday.
An Alexandria, Virginia native, Hightower was a fifth-round pick out of Richmond by the Cardinals in 2008. In 48 games, including 36 starts, Hightower has rushed for 1,733 yards and 23 touchdowns and has 118 receptions for 801 yards out of the backfield.
The Cardinals placed a "Second Round" tender on Hightower in February.
Holliday, 35, will join his sixth team since being selected in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. In addition to the Packers and Redskins, Holliday has played for the Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphins, and Denver Broncos.
Holliday had 29 tackles and 2.5 quarterback sacks in 15 games in his one and only season with the Redskins, and is scheduled to earn $1 million in base salary this season.
In exchange for Hightower, the Cardinals will receive a conditional late-round draft choice and veteran defensive end Vonnie Holliday.
An Alexandria, Virginia native, Hightower was a fifth-round pick out of Richmond by the Cardinals in 2008. In 48 games, including 36 starts, Hightower has rushed for 1,733 yards and 23 touchdowns and has 118 receptions for 801 yards out of the backfield.
The Cardinals placed a "Second Round" tender on Hightower in February.
Holliday, 35, will join his sixth team since being selected in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. In addition to the Packers and Redskins, Holliday has played for the Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphins, and Denver Broncos.
Holliday had 29 tackles and 2.5 quarterback sacks in 15 games in his one and only season with the Redskins, and is scheduled to earn $1 million in base salary this season.
Deuce Lutui Flunks Bengals Physical; Re-Signs With Cardinals
Veteran guard Deuce Lutui is headed back to the Arizona Cardinals, Kent Somers of The Arizona Republic reports.
Lutui agreed to a two-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals on Friday, but Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports Lutui failed his physical. Somers reports that Lutui will return to the Cardinals on a one-year contract.
A second-round pick out of USC in 2006, Lutui has started 72 of 78 games over the last five seasons. The Cardinals lost left guard Alan Faneca to retirement, and have signed Daryn College (Green Bay) to a five-year contract. Lutui could compete with Rex Hadnot and Floyd "Pork Chop" Womack for the starting right guard job.
Lutui agreed to a two-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals on Friday, but Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports Lutui failed his physical. Somers reports that Lutui will return to the Cardinals on a one-year contract.
A second-round pick out of USC in 2006, Lutui has started 72 of 78 games over the last five seasons. The Cardinals lost left guard Alan Faneca to retirement, and have signed Daryn College (Green Bay) to a five-year contract. Lutui could compete with Rex Hadnot and Floyd "Pork Chop" Womack for the starting right guard job.
Bengals Agree To Terms With RB Cedric Benson
The Cincinnati Bengals have reached agreement with running back Cedric Benson on a one-year contract, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Benson has led the Bengals in rushing the last three seasons, gaining 3,109 yards and 15 touchdowns in 41 games. Coming off a two-year, $6.5 million extension, Benson had been seeking a long-term extension. However, an arrest two weeks for allegedly assaulting his roommate scuttled those plans.
In 76 career games with the Bengals and Chicago Bears, the former first-round pick out of the University of Texas has rushed for 4,702 yards and 25 touchdowns and caught 91 passes for 654 yards and a touchdown.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Benson has led the Bengals in rushing the last three seasons, gaining 3,109 yards and 15 touchdowns in 41 games. Coming off a two-year, $6.5 million extension, Benson had been seeking a long-term extension. However, an arrest two weeks for allegedly assaulting his roommate scuttled those plans.
In 76 career games with the Bengals and Chicago Bears, the former first-round pick out of the University of Texas has rushed for 4,702 yards and 25 touchdowns and caught 91 passes for 654 yards and a touchdown.
Broncos Add Pair Of Tight Ends
The Denver Broncos have reached agreement on contracts with tight ends Daniel Fells and Dante Rosario, ESPN's John Clayton reports.
The 6-foot-4, 250-pound Rosario caught 82 passes for 894 yards and five touchdowns for the John Fox-coached Carolina Panthers, who selected Rosario in the fifth-round of the 2007 NFL Draft.
An undrafted free agent out of UC-Davis, Fells had stints with the Atlanta Falcons and Oakland Raiders before he was signed off the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad by the St. Louis Rams in 2008. Fells has caught 69 passes for 745 yards and five touchdowns over the last three seasons.
Before adding Fells and Rosario, third-year blocking tight end Richard Quinn was the team's top tight end.
The 6-foot-4, 250-pound Rosario caught 82 passes for 894 yards and five touchdowns for the John Fox-coached Carolina Panthers, who selected Rosario in the fifth-round of the 2007 NFL Draft.
An undrafted free agent out of UC-Davis, Fells had stints with the Atlanta Falcons and Oakland Raiders before he was signed off the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad by the St. Louis Rams in 2008. Fells has caught 69 passes for 745 yards and five touchdowns over the last three seasons.
Before adding Fells and Rosario, third-year blocking tight end Richard Quinn was the team's top tight end.
Lions Reach Two-Year Deal With CB Chris Houston
Free agent cornerback Chris Houston will return to the Detroit Lions, agreeing to a two-year deal on Sunday, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
A second-round pick out of Arkansas by the Atlanta Falcons in 2007, Houston started 37 games and picked off three passes before he was traded to the Lions in March of 2010. Houston started 15 games for the Lions last season, totaling 56 tackles and an interception.
Houston will likely start opposite Eric Wright, who signed with the Lions on Friday. Houston and Wright were chosen 12 spots apart in the 2007 draft.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
A second-round pick out of Arkansas by the Atlanta Falcons in 2007, Houston started 37 games and picked off three passes before he was traded to the Lions in March of 2010. Houston started 15 games for the Lions last season, totaling 56 tackles and an interception.
Houston will likely start opposite Eric Wright, who signed with the Lions on Friday. Houston and Wright were chosen 12 spots apart in the 2007 draft.
Falcons Agree To Terms With LG Justin Blalock
The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to terms free agent guard Justin Blalock, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
Alex Marvez of FOXSports.com reports that it's a six-year deal.
A second-round pick (37th overall) out of Texas by the Falcons in 2007, Blalock has started all 62 games he's been active in the NFL, including a 50 straight game streak he'll carry into the 2011 season.
Blalock was one of three Falcons starting offensive linemen that were free agents this offseason, and general manager Thomas Dimitroff has succeeded in keep at least two of them. Pro Bowl right tackle Tyson Clabo re-signed for five years and $27 million, but right guard Harvey Dahl departed for the St. Louis Rams.
Veteran center Todd McClure is entering the final year of his contract, while left tackle Sam Baker is signed through 2012.
Alex Marvez of FOXSports.com reports that it's a six-year deal.
A second-round pick (37th overall) out of Texas by the Falcons in 2007, Blalock has started all 62 games he's been active in the NFL, including a 50 straight game streak he'll carry into the 2011 season.
Blalock was one of three Falcons starting offensive linemen that were free agents this offseason, and general manager Thomas Dimitroff has succeeded in keep at least two of them. Pro Bowl right tackle Tyson Clabo re-signed for five years and $27 million, but right guard Harvey Dahl departed for the St. Louis Rams.
Veteran center Todd McClure is entering the final year of his contract, while left tackle Sam Baker is signed through 2012.
Bears Agree To Terms With C Chris Spencer
The Chicago Bears have agreed to terms with free agent center Chris Spencer, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.
Spencer will sign a two-year contract. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Unable to re-sign long-term center Olin Kruetz, the Bears have been on the lookout for a veteran center and it makes sense that they turned their attention to Spencer, who was a first-round draft choice (26th overall) out of Mississippi by the Seattle Seahawks in 2005. Bears Director of Player Personnel Tim Ruskell was Seattle's general manager in 2005, and Spencer was the first player Ruskell selected in an entry draft.
Spencer sat behind center Robbie Tobeck as a rookie before starting 70 games over the last five seasons. Denied unrestricted free agency last offseason, Spencer played last season under the "Original Round" restricted free agent tender worth $2.42 million in base salary.
Spencer started all 16 games for the Seahawks last season, and according to my game charting efforts, played all but two offensive snaps for the Seahawks in 2010.
Spencer will sign a two-year contract. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Unable to re-sign long-term center Olin Kruetz, the Bears have been on the lookout for a veteran center and it makes sense that they turned their attention to Spencer, who was a first-round draft choice (26th overall) out of Mississippi by the Seattle Seahawks in 2005. Bears Director of Player Personnel Tim Ruskell was Seattle's general manager in 2005, and Spencer was the first player Ruskell selected in an entry draft.
Spencer sat behind center Robbie Tobeck as a rookie before starting 70 games over the last five seasons. Denied unrestricted free agency last offseason, Spencer played last season under the "Original Round" restricted free agent tender worth $2.42 million in base salary.
Spencer started all 16 games for the Seahawks last season, and according to my game charting efforts, played all but two offensive snaps for the Seahawks in 2010.
Bills Agree To Terms With LB Nick Barnett
The Buffalo Bills have reached agreement on a three-year contract with veteran inside linebacker Nick Barnett, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Barnett's deal is worth $12 million, with $6 million guaranteed.
A 2003 first-round pick out of Oregon State by the Green Bay Packers, Barnett totaled 787 tackles, 15.5 quarterback sacks, and nine interceptions during his eight-year career in Green Bay. Barnett led the team in tackles in five of his eight seasons, but finished the 2008 (ACL) and 2010 (wrist) seasons on injured reserve and was released last week for salary cap purposes.
Barnett, 30, had drawn interest from the Detroit Lions, but the Lions signed Stephen Tulloch to a one-year deal instead. In Buffalo, Barnett will fill the void left by the departure of 2010 leading tackler Paul Posluszny, who signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Barnett's deal is worth $12 million, with $6 million guaranteed.
A 2003 first-round pick out of Oregon State by the Green Bay Packers, Barnett totaled 787 tackles, 15.5 quarterback sacks, and nine interceptions during his eight-year career in Green Bay. Barnett led the team in tackles in five of his eight seasons, but finished the 2008 (ACL) and 2010 (wrist) seasons on injured reserve and was released last week for salary cap purposes.
Barnett, 30, had drawn interest from the Detroit Lions, but the Lions signed Stephen Tulloch to a one-year deal instead. In Buffalo, Barnett will fill the void left by the departure of 2010 leading tackler Paul Posluszny, who signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
TE Daniel Graham Reaches Multi-Year Deal With Titans
The Tennessee Titans have agreed to terms on a multi-year contract with free agent tight end Daniel Graham.
Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports that Graham's deal is worth $8.5 million over three seasons.
A first-round pick out of Colorado by the New England Patriots in 2002, Graham has 222 receptions for 2,465 yards and 24 touchdowns during his nine-year career with the Patriots (2002-06) and Denver Broncos (2007-10).
The Broncos released the 32-year-old in March.
Graham is the veteran tight end the Titans have been looking to add to a group that includes Craig Stevens and Jared Cook.
Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports that Graham's deal is worth $8.5 million over three seasons.
A first-round pick out of Colorado by the New England Patriots in 2002, Graham has 222 receptions for 2,465 yards and 24 touchdowns during his nine-year career with the Patriots (2002-06) and Denver Broncos (2007-10).
The Broncos released the 32-year-old in March.
Graham is the veteran tight end the Titans have been looking to add to a group that includes Craig Stevens and Jared Cook.
Packers Keep WR James Jones
The Green Bay Packers have reached agreement on a three-year contract with wide receiver James Jones, Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
The 27-year-old has caught 149 passes for 2,069 yards and 13 touchdowns in 58 games for the Packers, who selected the former San Jose State standout in the third-round (78th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft.
Jones also has 17 receptions for 236 yards and three touchdowns in seven career post-season games, including 11 receptions for 144 yards and two touchdowns during the Packers' Super Bowl run in 2010.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
The 27-year-old has caught 149 passes for 2,069 yards and 13 touchdowns in 58 games for the Packers, who selected the former San Jose State standout in the third-round (78th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft.
Jones also has 17 receptions for 236 yards and three touchdowns in seven career post-season games, including 11 receptions for 144 yards and two touchdowns during the Packers' Super Bowl run in 2010.
Cardinals Reach Two-Year Deal With TE Todd Heap
Free agent tight end Todd Heap has agreed to terms on a two-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Heap was released by the Baltimore Ravens last week, and Schefter notes that Heap reached agreement with the Cardinals while visiting with the New York Jets.
The Mesa, Arizona native was a first-round pick out of Arizona State by the Ravens in 2001. Over the last ten seasons, Heap has 467 receptions for 5,492 yards and 41 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors following the 2002 and 2003 seasons. Heap, 31, has 93 receptions for 1,192 yards and 11 touchdowns in 29 games over the last two seasons, but the Ravens opted to not bring him back at his $4.6 million base salary for 2011.
Cardinals tight ends caught 25 passes for 210 yards last season, so the addition of Heap should increase that production. Arizona already signed former Carolina Panthers tight end Jeff King in free agency, and used a 2011 third-round pick on Florida Atlantic tight end Rob Housler.
Heap was released by the Baltimore Ravens last week, and Schefter notes that Heap reached agreement with the Cardinals while visiting with the New York Jets.
The Mesa, Arizona native was a first-round pick out of Arizona State by the Ravens in 2001. Over the last ten seasons, Heap has 467 receptions for 5,492 yards and 41 touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors following the 2002 and 2003 seasons. Heap, 31, has 93 receptions for 1,192 yards and 11 touchdowns in 29 games over the last two seasons, but the Ravens opted to not bring him back at his $4.6 million base salary for 2011.
Cardinals tight ends caught 25 passes for 210 yards last season, so the addition of Heap should increase that production. Arizona already signed former Carolina Panthers tight end Jeff King in free agency, and used a 2011 third-round pick on Florida Atlantic tight end Rob Housler.
Ravens Agree To Terms With FB Vonta Leach
Free agent fullback Vonta Leach has agreed to terms with the Baltimore Ravens, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.
According to McClain, Leach's three-year deal is worth $11 million.
The 6-foot, 255-pound Leach has spent the last four seasons with the Houston Texans, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors after paving the way for Arian Foster to lead the NFL in rushing last season.
Leach rarely carries the ball himself, with just three carries for three yards and two touchdowns in his career, but is the league's premier fullback and offers some receiving ability (71 receptions for 518 yards and four touchdowns) out of the backfield.
The addition of Leach should help Ray Rice, who is coming off back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons, and hurt Foster, who will now have James Casey as his lead-blocker.
Several teams were interested in Leach, including the New York Giants and Seattle Seahawks.
According to McClain, Leach's three-year deal is worth $11 million.
The 6-foot, 255-pound Leach has spent the last four seasons with the Houston Texans, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors after paving the way for Arian Foster to lead the NFL in rushing last season.
Leach rarely carries the ball himself, with just three carries for three yards and two touchdowns in his career, but is the league's premier fullback and offers some receiving ability (71 receptions for 518 yards and four touchdowns) out of the backfield.
The addition of Leach should help Ray Rice, who is coming off back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons, and hurt Foster, who will now have James Casey as his lead-blocker.
Several teams were interested in Leach, including the New York Giants and Seattle Seahawks.
Willis McGahee Signs With The Broncos
Free agent running back Willis McGahee has officially signed with the Denver Broncos, Mike Klis of The Denver Post reports.
McGahee received a four-year contract worth nearly $9.5 million, Klis adds. McGahee was linked to the Broncos late last week, but needed to pass a physical first, which occurred this morning.
The 29-year-old running back entered the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, who used the 23rd overall pick of the 2003 NFL Draft on McGahee, who was coming off a serious knee injury. McGahee missed his entire rookie season before rushing for 3,365 yards and 24 touchdowns over the next three seasons.
Traded to the Baltimore Ravens in 2007, McGahee went to his first (and only) Pro Bowl, rushing for 1,207 yards and seven touchdowns. McGahee's yardage has dropped in each of the last three seasons, including just 380 yards in 2010. At 6-0 and 228 pounds, he still possesses the power to be a solid short-yardage and goal-line option, scoring 24 touchdowns since 2008.
Klis adds that Broncos safety Brian Dawkins has restructured his contract. Dawkins had three years and $18 million remaining on his deal, with $6 million base salaries in each season.
McGahee received a four-year contract worth nearly $9.5 million, Klis adds. McGahee was linked to the Broncos late last week, but needed to pass a physical first, which occurred this morning.
The 29-year-old running back entered the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, who used the 23rd overall pick of the 2003 NFL Draft on McGahee, who was coming off a serious knee injury. McGahee missed his entire rookie season before rushing for 3,365 yards and 24 touchdowns over the next three seasons.
Traded to the Baltimore Ravens in 2007, McGahee went to his first (and only) Pro Bowl, rushing for 1,207 yards and seven touchdowns. McGahee's yardage has dropped in each of the last three seasons, including just 380 yards in 2010. At 6-0 and 228 pounds, he still possesses the power to be a solid short-yardage and goal-line option, scoring 24 touchdowns since 2008.
Klis adds that Broncos safety Brian Dawkins has restructured his contract. Dawkins had three years and $18 million remaining on his deal, with $6 million base salaries in each season.
Raiders Re-Sign S Michael Huff
A lack of salary cap room hasn't prevented the Oakland Raiders from reaching agreement on a contract with one of their free agents, safety Michael Huff, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Terms were not disclosed.
Selected with the seventh overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft, the former University of Texas standout has started 66 of his 80 games with the Raiders, totaling 344 tackles, 5.5 quarterback sacks, and seven interceptions.
Since being moved to free safety, Huff has 4.5 quarterback sacks and six interceptions over the last two seasons.
Terms were not disclosed.
Selected with the seventh overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft, the former University of Texas standout has started 66 of his 80 games with the Raiders, totaling 344 tackles, 5.5 quarterback sacks, and seven interceptions.
Since being moved to free safety, Huff has 4.5 quarterback sacks and six interceptions over the last two seasons.
Seahawks Plan To Reluctantly Release LB Lofa Tatupu
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Seattle Seahawks plan to reluctantly release middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu.
The Seahawks had asked Tatupu to restructure his contract, a request that was originally reported by Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network. Tatupu has been held out of practice the last two days, and according to Schefter, refused the team's request and asked for his release.
Tatupu's release would save $4.35 million in salary and $6.1 million in cap space this season. It is possible that once Tatupu hits the free agent market, and sees how barren it is for middle linebackers, he could return to the Seahawks, who would be releasing him "reluctantly", Schefter notes.
A second-round pick out of USC in 2005, Tatupu has 549 tackles, 8.5 quarterback sacks, and 10 interceptions during his 84 regular season games with the Seahawks.
The Seahawks' defensive captain for each of the last four seasons, Tatupu earned three straight trips to the Pro Bowl to start his career, signing a six-year, $42 million contract extension in March of 2008. Over the last three seasons,, Tatupu's play has dropped off as injuries have piled up. Tatupu missed most of 2009 with hamstring and a torn pectoral muscle, and while he played in all 18 regular and playoffs games in his first season back with head coach Pete Carroll, both of Tatupu's knees were operated in January.
Without Tatupu, David Hawthorne is expected to move to middle linebacker. The fourth-year linebacker led the 'Hawks in tackles when Tatupu missed 11 games with injuries.
The Seahawks had asked Tatupu to restructure his contract, a request that was originally reported by Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network. Tatupu has been held out of practice the last two days, and according to Schefter, refused the team's request and asked for his release.
Tatupu's release would save $4.35 million in salary and $6.1 million in cap space this season. It is possible that once Tatupu hits the free agent market, and sees how barren it is for middle linebackers, he could return to the Seahawks, who would be releasing him "reluctantly", Schefter notes.
A second-round pick out of USC in 2005, Tatupu has 549 tackles, 8.5 quarterback sacks, and 10 interceptions during his 84 regular season games with the Seahawks.
The Seahawks' defensive captain for each of the last four seasons, Tatupu earned three straight trips to the Pro Bowl to start his career, signing a six-year, $42 million contract extension in March of 2008. Over the last three seasons,, Tatupu's play has dropped off as injuries have piled up. Tatupu missed most of 2009 with hamstring and a torn pectoral muscle, and while he played in all 18 regular and playoffs games in his first season back with head coach Pete Carroll, both of Tatupu's knees were operated in January.
Without Tatupu, David Hawthorne is expected to move to middle linebacker. The fourth-year linebacker led the 'Hawks in tackles when Tatupu missed 11 games with injuries.
Plaxico Burress To The Jets
The New York Jets have signed free agent wide receiver Plaxico Burress to a one-year contract, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Burress' deal is worth a fully guaranteed $3.017 million.
Since Friday, Burress has visited with the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers, and Josina Anderson of FOX31 in Denver reports that the former Steelers and Giants wideout was set to travel west to meet with the San Francisco 49ers before the Jets called.
The 33-year-old Burress served twenty months for a weapons charge after suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound when a gun he was illegally carrying accidentally discharged while Burress was at a New York City nightclub. Burress had the gun tucked into the waistband of his jeans.
A former first-round pick out of Michigan State by the Steelers, Burress (6-5, 232) has 505 receptions for 7,845 yards and 55 touchdowns during his nine-year career, the last four of which spent with the Giants.
Burress' signing, paired with the re-signing of Santonio Holmes, means that Braylon Edwards' tenure with the Jets is over.
Burress' deal is worth a fully guaranteed $3.017 million.
Since Friday, Burress has visited with the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers, and Josina Anderson of FOX31 in Denver reports that the former Steelers and Giants wideout was set to travel west to meet with the San Francisco 49ers before the Jets called.
The 33-year-old Burress served twenty months for a weapons charge after suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound when a gun he was illegally carrying accidentally discharged while Burress was at a New York City nightclub. Burress had the gun tucked into the waistband of his jeans.
A former first-round pick out of Michigan State by the Steelers, Burress (6-5, 232) has 505 receptions for 7,845 yards and 55 touchdowns during his nine-year career, the last four of which spent with the Giants.
Burress' signing, paired with the re-signing of Santonio Holmes, means that Braylon Edwards' tenure with the Jets is over.
Lions Sign LB Stephen Tulloch
As expected, the Detroit Lions have signed free agent middle linebacker Stephen Tulloch, Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Tulloch signed a one-year deal worth $3.25 million, $1.8 million of which is guaranteed.
A fourth-round pick (116th overall) out of North Carolina State by the Tennessee Titans in 2006, Tulloch has 457 tackles, 4.5 quarterback sacks, and a pair of interceptions in his 80-game career.
The 5-foot-11, 240-pound Tulloch has been the Titans' full-time starting middle linebacker for the last three seasons, beginning in 2008 when Lions head coach Jim Schwartz was the team's defensive coordinator.
Detroit's offseason need for veteran linebackers, and the connection with Schwartz, has linked Tulloch to the Lions throughout this offseason. Tulloch's addition likely moves third-year linebacker DeAndre Levy to the outside, where he and free agent Justin Durant will flank Tulloch.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Tulloch signed a one-year deal worth $3.25 million, $1.8 million of which is guaranteed.
A fourth-round pick (116th overall) out of North Carolina State by the Tennessee Titans in 2006, Tulloch has 457 tackles, 4.5 quarterback sacks, and a pair of interceptions in his 80-game career.
The 5-foot-11, 240-pound Tulloch has been the Titans' full-time starting middle linebacker for the last three seasons, beginning in 2008 when Lions head coach Jim Schwartz was the team's defensive coordinator.
Detroit's offseason need for veteran linebackers, and the connection with Schwartz, has linked Tulloch to the Lions throughout this offseason. Tulloch's addition likely moves third-year linebacker DeAndre Levy to the outside, where he and free agent Justin Durant will flank Tulloch.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Bears Add DT Amobi Okoye, RB Marion Barber
The Chicago Bears added a pair of discarded players on Saturday, agreeing to terms with defensive tackle Amobi Okoye and running back Marion Barber, Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune reports.
A 2007 first-round pick by the Houston Texans, Okoye was not a fit in the Texans' new 3-4 defense and, after no team was willing to trade for him, was released earlier on Saturday.
Several suitors quickly emerged and the 24-year-old from the University of Louisville agreed to a one-year deal with the Bears, where the 6-foot-2, 302-pounder will play the three-technique spot.
Barber, 28, was released by the Dallas Cowboys in a cost-cutting move on Thursday. The 28-year-old is coming off his least productive season and was due nearly $5 million in total compensation in 2011. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Barber's two-year contract is worth $5 million.
Barber has rushed for 4,358 yards and 47 touchdowns over the last six seasons, adding 174 receptions for 1,280 yards and six touchdowns out of the backfield.
A 2007 first-round pick by the Houston Texans, Okoye was not a fit in the Texans' new 3-4 defense and, after no team was willing to trade for him, was released earlier on Saturday.
Several suitors quickly emerged and the 24-year-old from the University of Louisville agreed to a one-year deal with the Bears, where the 6-foot-2, 302-pounder will play the three-technique spot.
Barber, 28, was released by the Dallas Cowboys in a cost-cutting move on Thursday. The 28-year-old is coming off his least productive season and was due nearly $5 million in total compensation in 2011. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Barber's two-year contract is worth $5 million.
Barber has rushed for 4,358 yards and 47 touchdowns over the last six seasons, adding 174 receptions for 1,280 yards and six touchdowns out of the backfield.
MLB Barrett Ruud Agrees To Terms With Titans
Veteran middle linebacker Barrett Ruud has agreed to a one-year deal with the Tennessee Titans, Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
A second-round pick out of Nebraska by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2005, Ruud became the full-time starting middle linebacker in 2007. Over the last four seasons, Ruud has accumulated 511 tackles, five quarterback sacks, six interceptions, with 20 passes defensed.
Labor issues have hurt Ruud on several occasions during his career.
The first instance came in 2005, when Ruud was signed to a five-year rookie contract less than a year before the 2006 CBA limited second-round picks to four-year contracts. That fifth year meant Ruud was under contract through 2009, leading to Ruud being denied unrestricted free agency in the uncapped season.
Ruud played the 2010 season under the "First- and Third-Round" restricted free agent tender, earning $3.268 million in base salary. Finally there's the lockout, which by running into late July likely kept Ruud from signing a long-term contract.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
A second-round pick out of Nebraska by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2005, Ruud became the full-time starting middle linebacker in 2007. Over the last four seasons, Ruud has accumulated 511 tackles, five quarterback sacks, six interceptions, with 20 passes defensed.
Labor issues have hurt Ruud on several occasions during his career.
The first instance came in 2005, when Ruud was signed to a five-year rookie contract less than a year before the 2006 CBA limited second-round picks to four-year contracts. That fifth year meant Ruud was under contract through 2009, leading to Ruud being denied unrestricted free agency in the uncapped season.
Ruud played the 2010 season under the "First- and Third-Round" restricted free agent tender, earning $3.268 million in base salary. Finally there's the lockout, which by running into late July likely kept Ruud from signing a long-term contract.
Bengals Agree To Terms With CB Nate Clements
The Cincinnati Bengals have agreed to terms free agent cornerback Nate Clements, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
Clements was released by the San Francisco 49ers earlier this week.
A 2001 first-round pick out of Ohio State by the Buffalo Bills, Clements has 33 interceptions over his 10-year career, the last four of which has been spent in San Francisco.
The 6-foot, 205-pound corner will essentially replace Johnathan Joseph, who signed a five-year, $48.5 million contract with the Houston Texans on Friday.
Clements was released by the San Francisco 49ers earlier this week.
A 2001 first-round pick out of Ohio State by the Buffalo Bills, Clements has 33 interceptions over his 10-year career, the last four of which has been spent in San Francisco.
The 6-foot, 205-pound corner will essentially replace Johnathan Joseph, who signed a five-year, $48.5 million contract with the Houston Texans on Friday.
Vikings Agree To Terms With WR Michael Jenkins
The Minnesota Vikings have agreed to terms on a three-year contract with free agent wide receiver Michael Jenkins, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Financial terms were not immediately available.
Selected by the Atlanta Falcons with the 29th overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, Jenkins had 276 receptions for 3,512 yards and 20 touchdowns during his seasons in Atlanta. To save $4.1 million of cap space, and $7.75 million in cash over the next two seasons, the Falcons released Jenkins on Thursday.
By signing with the Vikings, Jenkins reunites with Bill Musgrave, Atlanta's former quarterbacks coach who became Minnesota's offensive coordinator this offseason.
Financial terms were not immediately available.
Selected by the Atlanta Falcons with the 29th overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, Jenkins had 276 receptions for 3,512 yards and 20 touchdowns during his seasons in Atlanta. To save $4.1 million of cap space, and $7.75 million in cash over the next two seasons, the Falcons released Jenkins on Thursday.
By signing with the Vikings, Jenkins reunites with Bill Musgrave, Atlanta's former quarterbacks coach who became Minnesota's offensive coordinator this offseason.
Eagles Deal DT Brodrick Bunkley To Browns
The Philadelphia Eagles announced that they have traded defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley to the Cleveland Browns.
In exchange for Bunkley, a first-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, the Eagles will receive a fifth-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.
Bunkley, 27, has 144 tackles and six quarterback sacks during his five-year career, and will earn $685,000 in base salary in the final year of his rookie contract.
In addition to trading Bunkley, the active Eagles' front office re-signed Akeem Jordan to a one-year deal.
Signed by the Eagles as an undrafted free agent out of James Madison in 2007, Jordan has 178 tackles, one quarterback sack and two interceptions in 53 games (20 starts) over the last four seasons.
In exchange for Bunkley, a first-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, the Eagles will receive a fifth-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.
Bunkley, 27, has 144 tackles and six quarterback sacks during his five-year career, and will earn $685,000 in base salary in the final year of his rookie contract.
In addition to trading Bunkley, the active Eagles' front office re-signed Akeem Jordan to a one-year deal.
Signed by the Eagles as an undrafted free agent out of James Madison in 2007, Jordan has 178 tackles, one quarterback sack and two interceptions in 53 games (20 starts) over the last four seasons.
Colts Re-Sign RB Joseph Addai
Now that Peyton Manning has agreed to terms on a new contract, the Indianapolis Colts can begin addressing the contracts of his supporting cast. ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports that the Colts have re-signed running back Joseph Addai.
Terms were not disclosed.
A first-round pick (30th overall) out of LSU, Addai has rushed for 4,090 yards and 38 touchdowns while hauling in 196 passes for 1,355 yards and nine touchdowns out of the backfield.
Addai has not topped 1,000 yards rushing in a season since 2007, but scored 10 touchdowns and had a career-high 51 receptions in 2009. Injuries limited Addai to just eight games in 2010, the final year of his rookie contract.
Now that Addai and Manning are signed, the Colts can turn their attention towards offensive lineman Charlie Johnson, and address the contracts of Reggie Wayne and Robert Mathis, two Pro Bowlers who are looking for extensions as they enter the final season of their current contract.
Terms were not disclosed.
A first-round pick (30th overall) out of LSU, Addai has rushed for 4,090 yards and 38 touchdowns while hauling in 196 passes for 1,355 yards and nine touchdowns out of the backfield.
Addai has not topped 1,000 yards rushing in a season since 2007, but scored 10 touchdowns and had a career-high 51 receptions in 2009. Injuries limited Addai to just eight games in 2010, the final year of his rookie contract.
Now that Addai and Manning are signed, the Colts can turn their attention towards offensive lineman Charlie Johnson, and address the contracts of Reggie Wayne and Robert Mathis, two Pro Bowlers who are looking for extensions as they enter the final season of their current contract.
Eagles Sign DT Cullen Jenkins
The Philadelphia Eagles have signed free agent defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins to a five-year contract, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Jenkins' five-year deal is worth $25 million, Schefter added.
The 30-year-old Jenkins had spent his entire career with the Green Bay Packers, who had signed him as an undrafted free agent out of Central Michigan in 2004. Jenkins totaled 194 tackles, 29 quarterback sacks and had 16 passes defensed with an interception during his seven-year career with the Packers.
Jenkins was expected to go to the NFC East, but to the Washington Redskins. The Redskins decided to sign Barry Cofield (NY Giants) and Stephen Bowen (Dallas) instead.
Jenkins' five-year deal is worth $25 million, Schefter added.
The 30-year-old Jenkins had spent his entire career with the Green Bay Packers, who had signed him as an undrafted free agent out of Central Michigan in 2004. Jenkins totaled 194 tackles, 29 quarterback sacks and had 16 passes defensed with an interception during his seven-year career with the Packers.
Jenkins was expected to go to the NFC East, but to the Washington Redskins. The Redskins decided to sign Barry Cofield (NY Giants) and Stephen Bowen (Dallas) instead.
Colts To Release CB Kelvin Hayden
The Indianapolis Colts have informed veteran cornerback Kelvin Hayden that he will be released, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
Hayden was scheduled to earn $6.105 million in base salary and has a $9.055 million cap number in 2011.
A second-round pick out of Illinois in 2005, Hayden has started 46 of his 77 career games, totaling 298 tackles and nine interceptions. Hayden has not played a full 16-game season since 2007, missing 18 regular season games over the last three seasons.
Hayden was scheduled to earn $6.105 million in base salary and has a $9.055 million cap number in 2011.
A second-round pick out of Illinois in 2005, Hayden has started 46 of his 77 career games, totaling 298 tackles and nine interceptions. Hayden has not played a full 16-game season since 2007, missing 18 regular season games over the last three seasons.
Texans Waive Amobi Okoye, David Anderson
John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports that Houston Texans defensive tackle Amobi Okoye and wide receiver David Anderson have been placed on waivers.
The agents for both players were granted permission to seek a trade, neither of which materialized.
Selected with the 10th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, the 24-year-old Okoye has 138 tackles and 11 quarterback sacks in 62 games (58 starts) over the last four seasons, but is not a fit for the team's conversion to a 3-4 defense under coordinator Wade Phillips.
Anderson was a sixth-round pick in 2007 who has caught 81 passes for 886 yards and three touchdowns in 61 games. Anderson caught a career-high 38 passes for 370 yards in 2009, the first year in a three-year, $4.5 million extension, but caught just 11 passes last season before finishing the season on injured reserve.
Okoye was set to earn $2.95 million in base salary, while Anderson was due $1.44 million.
The agents for both players were granted permission to seek a trade, neither of which materialized.
Selected with the 10th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, the 24-year-old Okoye has 138 tackles and 11 quarterback sacks in 62 games (58 starts) over the last four seasons, but is not a fit for the team's conversion to a 3-4 defense under coordinator Wade Phillips.
Anderson was a sixth-round pick in 2007 who has caught 81 passes for 886 yards and three touchdowns in 61 games. Anderson caught a career-high 38 passes for 370 yards in 2009, the first year in a three-year, $4.5 million extension, but caught just 11 passes last season before finishing the season on injured reserve.
Okoye was set to earn $2.95 million in base salary, while Anderson was due $1.44 million.
Seahawks LB Lofa Tatupu Being Asked To Restructure Contract
During a segment on the NFL Network's "Back to Football" program, Jason La Canfora of NFL.com reported that the Seattle Seahawks were holding three-time Pro Bowl middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu out of practice as they attempt to restructure his contract.
Tatupu has five years and over $25 million remaining on his current contract, which includes a $4.35 million base salary and a cap number of $6.116 million.
A second-round pick out of USC by the Seahawks in 2005, Tatupu topped 100 tackles in each of first three seasons in the league, adding 6.5 quarterback sacks and eight interceptions as he earned three straight trips to the Pro Bowl and a six-year, $42 million contract extension in March of 2008.
In the three seasons since, Tatupu has 214 tackles with two quarterback sacks and two interceptions in 36 games. Tatupu missed most of 2009 with hamstring and a torn pectoral muscle, and while he played in all 18 regular and playoffs games in his first season back with head coach Pete Carroll, Tatupu had both knees operated in January.
Should Tatupu decline a restructure and be released, David Hawthorne would slide to middle linebacker. Hawthorne led the 'Hawks in tackles while filling in for Tatupu in 2009, and signed a one-year extension with the club last November.
Tatupu has five years and over $25 million remaining on his current contract, which includes a $4.35 million base salary and a cap number of $6.116 million.
A second-round pick out of USC by the Seahawks in 2005, Tatupu topped 100 tackles in each of first three seasons in the league, adding 6.5 quarterback sacks and eight interceptions as he earned three straight trips to the Pro Bowl and a six-year, $42 million contract extension in March of 2008.
In the three seasons since, Tatupu has 214 tackles with two quarterback sacks and two interceptions in 36 games. Tatupu missed most of 2009 with hamstring and a torn pectoral muscle, and while he played in all 18 regular and playoffs games in his first season back with head coach Pete Carroll, Tatupu had both knees operated in January.
Should Tatupu decline a restructure and be released, David Hawthorne would slide to middle linebacker. Hawthorne led the 'Hawks in tackles while filling in for Tatupu in 2009, and signed a one-year extension with the club last November.
Colts, Peyton Manning Agree To Five-Year Deal
ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports that the Indianapolis Colts and franchised quarterback Peyton Manning have agreed to terms on a five-year, $90 million contract extension.
How much of that $90 million is guaranteed, but the average per year is equivalent to the four-year extension that Tom Brady received from the New England Patriots last September.
Manning's franchise tag was worth $23.12 million and reports during the lockout had the four-time NFL MVP seeking a deal that averaged $25 million per season. Manning appreciated the efforts that owner Jim Irsay was making to make Manning the highest-paid player in the history of the sport, but like Brady, was willing to take less to keep key pieces in the fold.
"While I appreciate Jim Irsay offering to make me the highest-paid player I told him I'd rather he save that money and keep whoever it is...(running back) Joe Addai, (offensive lineman) Charlie Johnson...whoever that may be," Manning said according to Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star. "I'm willing to take less than they've offered if they are going to take that money to keep players we need to keep and go get other players. All I want is for them to have the cap and the cash to keep the players they want to keep and to sign other players."
How much of that $90 million is guaranteed, but the average per year is equivalent to the four-year extension that Tom Brady received from the New England Patriots last September.
Manning's franchise tag was worth $23.12 million and reports during the lockout had the four-time NFL MVP seeking a deal that averaged $25 million per season. Manning appreciated the efforts that owner Jim Irsay was making to make Manning the highest-paid player in the history of the sport, but like Brady, was willing to take less to keep key pieces in the fold.
"While I appreciate Jim Irsay offering to make me the highest-paid player I told him I'd rather he save that money and keep whoever it is...(running back) Joe Addai, (offensive lineman) Charlie Johnson...whoever that may be," Manning said according to Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star. "I'm willing to take less than they've offered if they are going to take that money to keep players we need to keep and go get other players. All I want is for them to have the cap and the cash to keep the players they want to keep and to sign other players."
Tarvaris Jackson Named Seahawks' Starting QB
Following Saturday morning's practice, Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll said that newly signed Tarvaris Jackson is the team's starting quarterback, Eric Williams of the Tacoma News Tribune reports.
Jackson signed his two-year, $8 million contract on Friday, but is unable to do any on-field activities until the NFL and NFL Players Association wrap up the remaining issues before a collective bargaining agreement is officially ratified.
Naming Jackson the starter does not come as much of a surprise, as Jackson and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell spent the past five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. Not only is Jackson familiar with the concepts of Bevell's offense, he also knows how Bevell wants the huddle to be run, how their meetings will be, which gives him the early edge over Charlie Whitehurst.
Jackson also has familiarity with wide receiver Sidney Rice, who also came over from the Vikings, signing a five-year, $41 million contract on Friday night. Seahawks wide receiver Ben Obomanu and Jackson grew up playing against each other in Alabama, and are friends.
Given how Carroll preaches competition, Whitehurst can expect an opportunity to unseat Jackson during practice and preseason.
Jackson signed his two-year, $8 million contract on Friday, but is unable to do any on-field activities until the NFL and NFL Players Association wrap up the remaining issues before a collective bargaining agreement is officially ratified.
Naming Jackson the starter does not come as much of a surprise, as Jackson and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell spent the past five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. Not only is Jackson familiar with the concepts of Bevell's offense, he also knows how Bevell wants the huddle to be run, how their meetings will be, which gives him the early edge over Charlie Whitehurst.
Jackson also has familiarity with wide receiver Sidney Rice, who also came over from the Vikings, signing a five-year, $41 million contract on Friday night. Seahawks wide receiver Ben Obomanu and Jackson grew up playing against each other in Alabama, and are friends.
Given how Carroll preaches competition, Whitehurst can expect an opportunity to unseat Jackson during practice and preseason.
Saints Sign First Round RB Mark Ingram
New Orleans Saints first round running back Mark Ingram has agreed to terms on a four-year contract, Mike Triplett of The Times-Picayune reports.
Ingram was expected to sign the contract and be on the team's practice field in Metairie this morning.
According to a league source, Ingram's deal is worth $7.416 million and includes $6.03 million guaranteed. Ingram received a $3.894 million signing bonus, and his base salaries in 2011 ($375,000), 2012 ($712,125), and 2013 ($1.049 million) are fully guaranteed.
Ingram's $1.387 million base salary in 2014 is not guaranteed.
The Saints traded back into the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft to select the 2009 Heisman Trophy winner, who is expected to be the featured back in a backfield that includes Pierre Thomas, Chris Ivory, and Darren Sproles.
Ingram was expected to sign the contract and be on the team's practice field in Metairie this morning.
According to a league source, Ingram's deal is worth $7.416 million and includes $6.03 million guaranteed. Ingram received a $3.894 million signing bonus, and his base salaries in 2011 ($375,000), 2012 ($712,125), and 2013 ($1.049 million) are fully guaranteed.
Ingram's $1.387 million base salary in 2014 is not guaranteed.
The Saints traded back into the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft to select the 2009 Heisman Trophy winner, who is expected to be the featured back in a backfield that includes Pierre Thomas, Chris Ivory, and Darren Sproles.
Cardinals Sign CB Richard Marshall
The Arizona Cardinals have signed free agent cornerback Richard Marshall to a one-year contract.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Marshall (5-11, 189) recorded 422 tackles, five quarterback sacks, and 14 interceptions in 80 games for the Carolina Panthers, who used a second-round pick in 2006 on the former Fresno State standout. Marshall started all 32 games for the Panthers over the last two seasons.
Marshall will likely compete with Greg Toler for the starting job opposite 2011 first-round pick Patrick Peterson.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Marshall (5-11, 189) recorded 422 tackles, five quarterback sacks, and 14 interceptions in 80 games for the Carolina Panthers, who used a second-round pick in 2006 on the former Fresno State standout. Marshall started all 32 games for the Panthers over the last two seasons.
Marshall will likely compete with Greg Toler for the starting job opposite 2011 first-round pick Patrick Peterson.
Browns First Round DT Phil Taylor Unsigned For First Practice
Cleveland Browns first-round defensive tackle Phil Taylor is officially a training camp holdout, Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer reports.
Since there are two parties negotiating -- player and team -- and the player does not have a preexisting contract, a more appropriate term for situations like Taylor's would be that the player remains unsigned. The word "holdout" implies that the team has played no part in the lack of a deal, which isn't necessarily the case.
While the new rookie compensation system takes most of the intrigue out of rookie signings, there appears to be a legitimate reason, on both sides, for a stalemate between the Browns and Taylor.
Taylor was the 21st pick of the draft. The player chosen one spot ahead of him, Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Adrian Clayborn, signed a four-year, $8.21 million contract. The next signed first-round pick is Seattle Seahawks right tackle James Carpenter, who was chosen 25th overall and signed a four-year, $7.64 million contract.
While the total value of Taylor's contract will fall between those two numbers, and much closer to Clayborn's deal, the issue is how much of the deal will be guaranteed. Clayborn's $8.21 million contract is fully guaranteed, while $6.22 million (81%) of Carpenter's deal is fully guaranteed.
A deal will get done, but it's reasonable for Taylor's agent (Peter Schaffer) to attempt to get as much guaranteed money for his client as possible. It's also reasonable for the Browns to establish that only the Top 20 players in the draft will have their four-year rookie contracts fully guaranteed.
Since there are two parties negotiating -- player and team -- and the player does not have a preexisting contract, a more appropriate term for situations like Taylor's would be that the player remains unsigned. The word "holdout" implies that the team has played no part in the lack of a deal, which isn't necessarily the case.
While the new rookie compensation system takes most of the intrigue out of rookie signings, there appears to be a legitimate reason, on both sides, for a stalemate between the Browns and Taylor.
Taylor was the 21st pick of the draft. The player chosen one spot ahead of him, Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Adrian Clayborn, signed a four-year, $8.21 million contract. The next signed first-round pick is Seattle Seahawks right tackle James Carpenter, who was chosen 25th overall and signed a four-year, $7.64 million contract.
While the total value of Taylor's contract will fall between those two numbers, and much closer to Clayborn's deal, the issue is how much of the deal will be guaranteed. Clayborn's $8.21 million contract is fully guaranteed, while $6.22 million (81%) of Carpenter's deal is fully guaranteed.
A deal will get done, but it's reasonable for Taylor's agent (Peter Schaffer) to attempt to get as much guaranteed money for his client as possible. It's also reasonable for the Browns to establish that only the Top 20 players in the draft will have their four-year rookie contracts fully guaranteed.
Chiefs To Sign DT Kelly Gregg To One-Year Deal
Free agent defensive tackle Kelly Gregg has agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, Joe Fortenbaugh of the National Football Post reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Gregg, 34, spent the previous ten seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, totaling over 500 tackles and 19.5 quarterback sacks before he was released on Thursday. Gregg had two years and $7 million remaining on his previous contract.
Adding the 6-foot, 320-pound Gregg to the interior of the defense softens the blow of losing defensive linemen Ron Edwards (Carolina Panthers) and Shaun Smith (Tennessee Titans) in free agency.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Gregg, 34, spent the previous ten seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, totaling over 500 tackles and 19.5 quarterback sacks before he was released on Thursday. Gregg had two years and $7 million remaining on his previous contract.
Adding the 6-foot, 320-pound Gregg to the interior of the defense softens the blow of losing defensive linemen Ron Edwards (Carolina Panthers) and Shaun Smith (Tennessee Titans) in free agency.
League, Players To Discuss Remaining Issues
With the lockout over and free agency and training camps kicking into high gear, labor talks have thankfully dropped off the front page of sports sections in the last few days.
Today, the NFL and NFL Players Association will resume talks on the remaining issues that are need resolution for a new collective bargaining agreement.
After the players approved the labor deal on Monday, representatives from the NFLPA began visiting teams on Wednesday, where players have been voting to recertify as a union. Recertification is a necessary step for the NFLPA to negotiate with the league on issues such as the drug-testing policy and league discipline.
Talks on these issues are expected to go smoothly, with August 4 listed as a target date for ratification of the agreement. Until that happens, veteran players that signed new contracts will be unable to participate in any on-field activity with their current or new club.
Today, the NFL and NFL Players Association will resume talks on the remaining issues that are need resolution for a new collective bargaining agreement.
After the players approved the labor deal on Monday, representatives from the NFLPA began visiting teams on Wednesday, where players have been voting to recertify as a union. Recertification is a necessary step for the NFLPA to negotiate with the league on issues such as the drug-testing policy and league discipline.
Talks on these issues are expected to go smoothly, with August 4 listed as a target date for ratification of the agreement. Until that happens, veteran players that signed new contracts will be unable to participate in any on-field activity with their current or new club.
Cowboys Agree To Terms With DE Kenyon Coleman
Free agent defensive end Kenyon Coleman has agreed to terms with the Dallas Cowboys, Todd Archer of ESPN Dallas reports.
Financial terms of the two-year deal were not disclosed.
A fifth-round pick out of UCLA by the Oakland Raiders in 2002, Coleman played for the Cowboys from 2003 through 2006 before signing with the New York Jets. Coleman was traded to the Cleveland Browns as part of the Jets' 2009 draft day trade to move up to select quarterback Mark Sanchez.
Signing with the Cowboys reunites Coleman with Rob Ryan, his defensive coordinator the last two seasons in Cleveland.
In 118 career games, the 6-foot-5, 295-pound Coleman has 310 tackles and 12.5 quarterback sacks. Coleman adds veteran depth to a Cowboys defensive line that will start Igor Olshansky and a newly re-signed Marcus Spears at the defensive end position.
Financial terms of the two-year deal were not disclosed.
A fifth-round pick out of UCLA by the Oakland Raiders in 2002, Coleman played for the Cowboys from 2003 through 2006 before signing with the New York Jets. Coleman was traded to the Cleveland Browns as part of the Jets' 2009 draft day trade to move up to select quarterback Mark Sanchez.
Signing with the Cowboys reunites Coleman with Rob Ryan, his defensive coordinator the last two seasons in Cleveland.
In 118 career games, the 6-foot-5, 295-pound Coleman has 310 tackles and 12.5 quarterback sacks. Coleman adds veteran depth to a Cowboys defensive line that will start Igor Olshansky and a newly re-signed Marcus Spears at the defensive end position.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Vince Young Officially Signs With The Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles have officially signed free agent quarterback Vince Young to a one-year contract, the team announced on Friday night.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the deal could be worth as much as $5.5 million.
Released by the Tennessee Titans on Thursday, Young and 2010 draft choice Mike Kafka are expected to backup Michael Vick.
The third overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft, Young has completed 57.9 percent of 1,190 pass attempts for 8,098 yards with 42 touchdowns and 42 interceptions and used his mobility to run for 1,380 yard sand 12 touchdowns, including seven during his Rookie of the Year season.
Young earned Pro Bowl honors following the 2006 and 2008 seasons, but issues both on and off the playing field led to the Titans' decision to part ways with Young before a $4.25 million and $8.5 million base salary came due in 2011.
Though there's little chance that Young will unseat Vick as the starting quarterback, Vick's slight build and desire to make the big play frequently results in injuries and playing time for his backup. With Eagles head coach Andy Reid and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg working with him on his mechanics, the 28-year-old Young could turn his career around and be a starting quarterback in the NFL next season.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the deal could be worth as much as $5.5 million.
Released by the Tennessee Titans on Thursday, Young and 2010 draft choice Mike Kafka are expected to backup Michael Vick.
The third overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft, Young has completed 57.9 percent of 1,190 pass attempts for 8,098 yards with 42 touchdowns and 42 interceptions and used his mobility to run for 1,380 yard sand 12 touchdowns, including seven during his Rookie of the Year season.
Young earned Pro Bowl honors following the 2006 and 2008 seasons, but issues both on and off the playing field led to the Titans' decision to part ways with Young before a $4.25 million and $8.5 million base salary came due in 2011.
Though there's little chance that Young will unseat Vick as the starting quarterback, Vick's slight build and desire to make the big play frequently results in injuries and playing time for his backup. With Eagles head coach Andy Reid and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg working with him on his mechanics, the 28-year-old Young could turn his career around and be a starting quarterback in the NFL next season.
Rams Reach One-Year Deal With Mike Sims-Walker
Free agent wide receiver Mike Sims-Walker has reached agreement on a one-year deal with the St. Louis Rams, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
A third-round pick out of Central Florida by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2007, Sims-Walker spent his rookie season in injured reserve with a knee injury before catching 122 passes for 1,648 yards and 14 touchdowns over the last three seasons.
After catching a career-high 63 passes for 889 yards and seven touchdowns in 2009, Sims-Walker's production dipped to just 43 receptions for 562 yards last season, though he did haul in seven touchdown grabs.
Despite his expiring contract and uncertainty regarding the 2011 league rules, the Jaguars did not place a restricted free agent tender on Sims-Walker in February, informing him that he would not be back in 2011.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
A third-round pick out of Central Florida by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2007, Sims-Walker spent his rookie season in injured reserve with a knee injury before catching 122 passes for 1,648 yards and 14 touchdowns over the last three seasons.
After catching a career-high 63 passes for 889 yards and seven touchdowns in 2009, Sims-Walker's production dipped to just 43 receptions for 562 yards last season, though he did haul in seven touchdown grabs.
Despite his expiring contract and uncertainty regarding the 2011 league rules, the Jaguars did not place a restricted free agent tender on Sims-Walker in February, informing him that he would not be back in 2011.
Saints Re-Sign S Roman Harper
The New Orleans Saints have re-signed free agent safety Roman Harper, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
According to Schefter, Harper will receive a four-year deal worth $28.5 million with $16 million guaranteed.
A second-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft out of Alabama, Harper has 405 tackles, 9.5 quarterback sacks and four interceptions in 67 career games. Harper was denied unrestricted free agency in 2010, playing for a one-year restricted free agent tender worth $2.521 million.
Harper is coming off back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons.
According to Schefter, Harper will receive a four-year deal worth $28.5 million with $16 million guaranteed.
A second-round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft out of Alabama, Harper has 405 tackles, 9.5 quarterback sacks and four interceptions in 67 career games. Harper was denied unrestricted free agency in 2010, playing for a one-year restricted free agent tender worth $2.521 million.
Harper is coming off back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons.
Rams To Release G Jacob Bell
St. Louis Rams guard Jacob Bell has turned down requests to restructure his contract and will be released, Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports.
The Rams agreed to terms with free agent guard Harvey Dahl on Friday.
Signed to a six-year, $36 million contract in 2008, Bell was scheduled to earn $6 million in base salary in each of the next three seasons. The 6-foot-4, 295-pound Bell started 42 games for the Rams over the last three seasons.
The Rams agreed to terms with free agent guard Harvey Dahl on Friday.
Signed to a six-year, $36 million contract in 2008, Bell was scheduled to earn $6 million in base salary in each of the next three seasons. The 6-foot-4, 295-pound Bell started 42 games for the Rams over the last three seasons.
Seahawks Re-Sign DT Brandon Mebane
Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider announced that the team has re-signed defensive tackle Brandon Mebane, John Boyle of the Everett Herald reports.
Terms were not disclosed.
A third-round pick out of Cal by the Seahawks in 2007, Mebane has 148 tackles and 10 quarterback sacks during his 59-game career. The 6-foot-1, 311-pounder is solid against the run to play the nose and has the quickness to be a penetrating three-technique.
Re-signing Mebane became a higher priority as nose tackle Colin Cole is opening training camp on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing surgery on his left ankle a few weeks ago.
The Seahawks have also reached agreement with defensive lineman Alan Branch.
Terms were not disclosed.
A third-round pick out of Cal by the Seahawks in 2007, Mebane has 148 tackles and 10 quarterback sacks during his 59-game career. The 6-foot-1, 311-pounder is solid against the run to play the nose and has the quickness to be a penetrating three-technique.
Re-signing Mebane became a higher priority as nose tackle Colin Cole is opening training camp on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing surgery on his left ankle a few weeks ago.
The Seahawks have also reached agreement with defensive lineman Alan Branch.
Eagles Announce Five-Year Deal With CB Nnamdi Asomugha
The Philadelphia Eagles announced that they have reached agreement on a contract with free agent cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com reports.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the deal is worth $60 million, with $25 million guaranteed.
Asomugha, 30, has spent his entire college and pro career in the Bay Area, playing his college ball at Cal before being selected in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders.
In nine seasons in Silver & Black, Asomugha has 310 tackles, two quarterback sacks, and 11 interceptions, eight of which coming in a breakout 2006 season. In the four seasons since, opposing quarterbacks rarely challenged the four-time Pro Bowler.
Samuel joins an Eagles secondary that has perennial Pro Bowler Asante Samuel playing left corner and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, a former first-round pick who the club acquired this week from the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for quarterback Kevin Kolb.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the deal is worth $60 million, with $25 million guaranteed.
Asomugha, 30, has spent his entire college and pro career in the Bay Area, playing his college ball at Cal before being selected in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders.
In nine seasons in Silver & Black, Asomugha has 310 tackles, two quarterback sacks, and 11 interceptions, eight of which coming in a breakout 2006 season. In the four seasons since, opposing quarterbacks rarely challenged the four-time Pro Bowler.
Samuel joins an Eagles secondary that has perennial Pro Bowler Asante Samuel playing left corner and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, a former first-round pick who the club acquired this week from the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for quarterback Kevin Kolb.
Raiders Agree To Terms With OT Jared Gaither
Free agent offensive tackle Jared Gaither has agreed to terms with the Oakland Raiders, Vitorrio Tafuro of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.
Terms were not disclosed.
UPDATE: Gaither's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, announced on Twitter that Gaither has not agreed to terms.
The 6-foot-9, 340-pound tackle entered the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens, who used a fifth-round pick in the 2007 Supplemental Draft on Gaither with the hope that he'd develop into the long-term replacement at left tackle for future Hall of Famer Jonathan Ogden.
Gaither started 28 of 33 games between 2007 and 2009, but was scheduled to move to right side of the line as the Ravens' 2009 first-round pick Michael Oher was ticketed for the left tackle position. A back injury sidelined Gaither for the entire 2010 season.
The Raiders have used third-round picks in 2010 and 2011 on offensive tackles Jared Veldheer and Joe Barksdale, so it will be interesting to see where Gaither fits in with this group once he arrives in training camp.
Terms were not disclosed.
UPDATE: Gaither's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, announced on Twitter that Gaither has not agreed to terms.
The 6-foot-9, 340-pound tackle entered the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens, who used a fifth-round pick in the 2007 Supplemental Draft on Gaither with the hope that he'd develop into the long-term replacement at left tackle for future Hall of Famer Jonathan Ogden.
Gaither started 28 of 33 games between 2007 and 2009, but was scheduled to move to right side of the line as the Ravens' 2009 first-round pick Michael Oher was ticketed for the left tackle position. A back injury sidelined Gaither for the entire 2010 season.
The Raiders have used third-round picks in 2010 and 2011 on offensive tackles Jared Veldheer and Joe Barksdale, so it will be interesting to see where Gaither fits in with this group once he arrives in training camp.
Dolphins Releasing LB Channing Crowder
The Miami Dolphins will release inside linebacker Channing Crowder, Armando Salguero of the Sun-Sentinel reports.
Crowder was set to earn $2.5 million in base salary, plus had a $1 million roster bonus and $250,000 workout bonus in the final year of his contract.
A third-round pick (70th overall) out of Florida in 2005, Crowder has 469 tackles, 2.5 quarterback sacks, and one interception in 82 games over the last six seasons. Crowder finished the 2007 season on injured reserve with a knee injury and suffered a Lisfranc injury to his foot at the end of the 2009 season.
Miami signed inside linebacker Karlos Dansby to a five-year, $43 million contract and acquired Tim Dobbins from the San Diego Chargers last offseason. Dansby finished second on the team with 95 tackles, while Dobbins had more tackles (43) than Crowder's 39, despite started just six games.
Crowder was set to earn $2.5 million in base salary, plus had a $1 million roster bonus and $250,000 workout bonus in the final year of his contract.
A third-round pick (70th overall) out of Florida in 2005, Crowder has 469 tackles, 2.5 quarterback sacks, and one interception in 82 games over the last six seasons. Crowder finished the 2007 season on injured reserve with a knee injury and suffered a Lisfranc injury to his foot at the end of the 2009 season.
Miami signed inside linebacker Karlos Dansby to a five-year, $43 million contract and acquired Tim Dobbins from the San Diego Chargers last offseason. Dansby finished second on the team with 95 tackles, while Dobbins had more tackles (43) than Crowder's 39, despite started just six games.
Cowboys To Re-Sign DE Marcus Spears
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Dallas Cowboys have reached agreement on a five-year deal with defensive end Marcus Spears.
According to Schefter, Spears' deal is worth $19.2 million.
The 2005 first-round pick out of LSU has started 78 of 88 games over the last six seasons, totaling 185 tackles and eight quarterback sacks.
Rules governing the uncapped 2010 season denied Spears his first year of unrestricted free agency, with the Cowboys able to retain his services for an original round tender worth $1.226 million in base salary. Spears spent the second half of 2010 on injured reserve with a calf injury.
Re-signing Spears keeps the Cowboys' starting defensive line intact, with Jay Ratliff on the nose and Igor Olshansky starting at the other defensive end position.
According to Schefter, Spears' deal is worth $19.2 million.
The 2005 first-round pick out of LSU has started 78 of 88 games over the last six seasons, totaling 185 tackles and eight quarterback sacks.
Rules governing the uncapped 2010 season denied Spears his first year of unrestricted free agency, with the Cowboys able to retain his services for an original round tender worth $1.226 million in base salary. Spears spent the second half of 2010 on injured reserve with a calf injury.
Re-signing Spears keeps the Cowboys' starting defensive line intact, with Jay Ratliff on the nose and Igor Olshansky starting at the other defensive end position.
Jaguars Agree To Terms With S Dawan Landry
Free agent safety Dawan Landry has agreed to terms with the Jacksonville Jaguars, reports Vito Stellino for the Florida Times-Union.
The length and financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
A fifth-round pick (146th overall) out of Georgia Tech by the Baltimore Ravens in 2006, Landry has 362 tackles, five quarterback sacks, and nine interceptions in 66 games over the last five seasons. Landry missed most of 2008 with a neck injury, but the 28-year-old has started 36 regular and post-season games in the two seasons since.
The Jaguars have ranked 30th, 27th, and 32nd in the NFL in passing yards per play, which made upgrading the back-end of the secondary a priority this offseason. The Jaguars dabbled in the Eric Weddle market before the San Diego Chargers locked him up with a five-year, $40 million contract on Wednesday.
The length and financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
A fifth-round pick (146th overall) out of Georgia Tech by the Baltimore Ravens in 2006, Landry has 362 tackles, five quarterback sacks, and nine interceptions in 66 games over the last five seasons. Landry missed most of 2008 with a neck injury, but the 28-year-old has started 36 regular and post-season games in the two seasons since.
The Jaguars have ranked 30th, 27th, and 32nd in the NFL in passing yards per play, which made upgrading the back-end of the secondary a priority this offseason. The Jaguars dabbled in the Eric Weddle market before the San Diego Chargers locked him up with a five-year, $40 million contract on Wednesday.
Rams Agree To Terms With G Harvey Dahl
Veteran free agent guard Harvey Dahl has agreed to terms with the St. Louis Rams, Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. As a restricted free agent the last two seasons, Dahl has earned $4.066 million in tenders.
Undrafted out of the University of Nevada in 2005, Dahl had a brief stint with the Dallas Cowboys before spending much of his first three seasons in the league with the San Francisco 49ers. Signed off the 49ers' practice squad midway through the 2007 season, Dahl became a full-time starter in Atlanta in 2008.
Over the last three seasons, Dahl has started all 43 games he's been active.
The Rams used high draft choices (No. 2 overall in 2009, No. 33 overall in 2010) on their talented tackles Jason Smith and Rodger Saffold, and Dahl will become the third high-priced free agent interior lineman that team has added in the last few seasons. The Rams added Jacob Bell in 2008 and center Jason Brown in 2009.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. As a restricted free agent the last two seasons, Dahl has earned $4.066 million in tenders.
Undrafted out of the University of Nevada in 2005, Dahl had a brief stint with the Dallas Cowboys before spending much of his first three seasons in the league with the San Francisco 49ers. Signed off the 49ers' practice squad midway through the 2007 season, Dahl became a full-time starter in Atlanta in 2008.
Over the last three seasons, Dahl has started all 43 games he's been active.
The Rams used high draft choices (No. 2 overall in 2009, No. 33 overall in 2010) on their talented tackles Jason Smith and Rodger Saffold, and Dahl will become the third high-priced free agent interior lineman that team has added in the last few seasons. The Rams added Jacob Bell in 2008 and center Jason Brown in 2009.
Falcons Agree To Terms With DE Ray Edwards
Free agent defensive end Ray Edwards has agreed to terms with the Atlanta Falcons, Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com reports.
According to Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com, Edwards' deal is worth $30 million with $11 million guaranteed.
A 2006 fourth-round pick out of Purdue, Edwards has 182 tackles and 29.5 quarterbacks sacks during his five-year career. Denied unrestricted free agency last off-season, Edwards earned $2.521 million in base salary on a "First Round" restricted free agent tender in 2010.
The Falcons posted just 31 quarterback sacks in 2010, with 13 coming from 33-year-old John Abraham, who is entering the final year of his contract. With Edwards in the fold, the Falcons can keep Abraham fresh for passing downs, with those two possibly joined by Kroy Biermann in nickel situations.
Edwards had played at around 270 pounds during his five years in Minnesota, but reportedly trimmed 15 pounds while training for a few professional boxing matches during the lockout.
According to Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com, Edwards' deal is worth $30 million with $11 million guaranteed.
A 2006 fourth-round pick out of Purdue, Edwards has 182 tackles and 29.5 quarterbacks sacks during his five-year career. Denied unrestricted free agency last off-season, Edwards earned $2.521 million in base salary on a "First Round" restricted free agent tender in 2010.
The Falcons posted just 31 quarterback sacks in 2010, with 13 coming from 33-year-old John Abraham, who is entering the final year of his contract. With Edwards in the fold, the Falcons can keep Abraham fresh for passing downs, with those two possibly joined by Kroy Biermann in nickel situations.
Edwards had played at around 270 pounds during his five years in Minnesota, but reportedly trimmed 15 pounds while training for a few professional boxing matches during the lockout.
Seahawks Agree To Terms With OT James Carpenter, LB Leroy Hill
The Seattle Seahawks announced that they have agreed to terms with first-round offensive tackle James Carpenter and veteran linebacker Leroy Hill.
Carpenter has signed his contract and will be on the practice field on Friday.
The 25th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, Carpenter (6-4, 321) was a two-year starter at left tackle for the University of Alabama. Carpenter is expected to be an immediate starter at right tackle for the Seahawks, pairing with 2010 first-round pick Russell Okung to provide the 'Hawks with bookend tackles for the next few years.
Hill was once a key starter for the Seahawks, and at one time was arguably their best overall defensive player. An arrest for possession of marijuana in February of 2009 did not prevent the Seahawks' front office from designating Hill their franchise player. Evan after using the fourth overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft on linebacker Aaron Curry and rescinding the franchise tender, Seattle still signed Hill to a six-year, $36 million extension.
Hill missed five games in 2009, recording a career-low 46 tackles and one quarterback sack. Hill was arrested on domestic violence charges the following April, and the new Seahawks' front office and coaching staff kept him away from the team's facilities for much of the offseason workouts.
Hill reported to training camp, but the Seahwaks restructured his contract in August, essentially voiding the final four years of the deal. Hill served a one-game suspension to start the 2010 season (for the marijuana arrest) and injured his Achilles' in Week 2 against the Denver Broncos, the only game Hill would appear in last season before he was placed on injured reserve.
Hill's domestic violence charges could be dismissed provided Hill meets certain court-ordered stipulations. The NFL announced an additional one-game suspension for Hill after he had been placed on injured reserve.
Re-signing Hill became a bit of a priority for the Seahawks after losing versatile backup Will Herring to the New Orleans Saints.
The Seahawks also announced that defensive tackle Barrett Moen and safety James Brindley were placed on waivers, and that offensive linemen Stacy Andrews and Chris White had their contracts terminated.
Carpenter has signed his contract and will be on the practice field on Friday.
The 25th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, Carpenter (6-4, 321) was a two-year starter at left tackle for the University of Alabama. Carpenter is expected to be an immediate starter at right tackle for the Seahawks, pairing with 2010 first-round pick Russell Okung to provide the 'Hawks with bookend tackles for the next few years.
Hill was once a key starter for the Seahawks, and at one time was arguably their best overall defensive player. An arrest for possession of marijuana in February of 2009 did not prevent the Seahawks' front office from designating Hill their franchise player. Evan after using the fourth overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft on linebacker Aaron Curry and rescinding the franchise tender, Seattle still signed Hill to a six-year, $36 million extension.
Hill missed five games in 2009, recording a career-low 46 tackles and one quarterback sack. Hill was arrested on domestic violence charges the following April, and the new Seahawks' front office and coaching staff kept him away from the team's facilities for much of the offseason workouts.
Hill reported to training camp, but the Seahwaks restructured his contract in August, essentially voiding the final four years of the deal. Hill served a one-game suspension to start the 2010 season (for the marijuana arrest) and injured his Achilles' in Week 2 against the Denver Broncos, the only game Hill would appear in last season before he was placed on injured reserve.
Hill's domestic violence charges could be dismissed provided Hill meets certain court-ordered stipulations. The NFL announced an additional one-game suspension for Hill after he had been placed on injured reserve.
Re-signing Hill became a bit of a priority for the Seahawks after losing versatile backup Will Herring to the New Orleans Saints.
The Seahawks also announced that defensive tackle Barrett Moen and safety James Brindley were placed on waivers, and that offensive linemen Stacy Andrews and Chris White had their contracts terminated.
Steelers Release OT Flozell Adams
The Pittsburgh Steelers have released offensive tackle Flozell Adams, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.
After losing starting right tackle Willie Colon to an Achilles injury during last year's OTAs, the Steelers signed the former Dallas Cowboy to a two-year, $7.5 million contract last July.
Adams earned $2.5 million in base salary while starting 19 regular and post-season games, but with the return of Colon on a five-year, $29 million contract extension, and the arrival of second-round offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert, Adams may not have a starting opportunity to justify his $5 million base salary in 2011.
There was no signing bonus in Adams' deal, so his release will clear $5 million from their salary cap.
After losing starting right tackle Willie Colon to an Achilles injury during last year's OTAs, the Steelers signed the former Dallas Cowboy to a two-year, $7.5 million contract last July.
Adams earned $2.5 million in base salary while starting 19 regular and post-season games, but with the return of Colon on a five-year, $29 million contract extension, and the arrival of second-round offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert, Adams may not have a starting opportunity to justify his $5 million base salary in 2011.
There was no signing bonus in Adams' deal, so his release will clear $5 million from their salary cap.
Titans Agree To Terms With DT Shaun Smith
Free agent defensive tackle Shaun Smith has agreed to terms with the Tennessee Titans, Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reports.
Terms were not disclosed.
The former undrafted free agent out of South Carolina has bounced around the league, appearing in 79 games with the New Orleans Saints (2004), Cincinnati Bengals (2004-06, 2009), Cleveland Browns (2007-08), and Kansas City Chiefs, where started 10 games and totaled 56 tackles, a quarterback sack, and scored a rushing touchdown in a 42-24 win over the Seattle Seahawks last season.
Smith has also had stints with the Dallas Cowboys (2004), Arizona Cardinals (2004), and Detroit Lions (2009).
The 6-foot-2, 325-pound Smith adds depth to a Titans' offensive line that includes recent second-round picks Jason Jones (2008) and Sen'Derrick Marks (2009), and 2011 third-round pick Jurrell Casey.
The Titans released veteran Tony Brown on Thursday.
Terms were not disclosed.
The former undrafted free agent out of South Carolina has bounced around the league, appearing in 79 games with the New Orleans Saints (2004), Cincinnati Bengals (2004-06, 2009), Cleveland Browns (2007-08), and Kansas City Chiefs, where started 10 games and totaled 56 tackles, a quarterback sack, and scored a rushing touchdown in a 42-24 win over the Seattle Seahawks last season.
Smith has also had stints with the Dallas Cowboys (2004), Arizona Cardinals (2004), and Detroit Lions (2009).
The 6-foot-2, 325-pound Smith adds depth to a Titans' offensive line that includes recent second-round picks Jason Jones (2008) and Sen'Derrick Marks (2009), and 2011 third-round pick Jurrell Casey.
The Titans released veteran Tony Brown on Thursday.
Falcons Release Jamaal Anderson, Michael Jenkins
The Atlanta Falcons have released pair of former first-round picks, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Defensive end Jamaal Anderson and wide receiver Michael Jenkins will be released. Neither player was selected by the current front office and coaching staff, though Jenkins did receive a contract extension in 2008, general manager Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Mike Smith's first seasons in Atlanta.
Selected with the eighth overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Anderson's playing time has steadily decreased over the last four seasons. After starting all 44 games he was active from 2007-09, Anderson started just three of 16 games in 2010, totaling a career-low 21 tackles while matching his career-high with two quarterback sacks.
Through playing-time incentives, Anderson's base salary in 2011 had escalated to $3.558 million.
Jenkins was picked 29th overall in 2004, and the former Ohio State Buckeye has 276 receptions for 3,512 yards and 20 touchdowns over the last seven seasons. Jenkins was limited to just 11 games last season, and with Roddy White the No. 1 receiver and the Falcons trading a bevy of picks to trade up for Julio Jones, Jenkins and his $3.5 million in base salary this season were expendable.
Defensive end Jamaal Anderson and wide receiver Michael Jenkins will be released. Neither player was selected by the current front office and coaching staff, though Jenkins did receive a contract extension in 2008, general manager Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Mike Smith's first seasons in Atlanta.
Selected with the eighth overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Anderson's playing time has steadily decreased over the last four seasons. After starting all 44 games he was active from 2007-09, Anderson started just three of 16 games in 2010, totaling a career-low 21 tackles while matching his career-high with two quarterback sacks.
Through playing-time incentives, Anderson's base salary in 2011 had escalated to $3.558 million.
Jenkins was picked 29th overall in 2004, and the former Ohio State Buckeye has 276 receptions for 3,512 yards and 20 touchdowns over the last seven seasons. Jenkins was limited to just 11 games last season, and with Roddy White the No. 1 receiver and the Falcons trading a bevy of picks to trade up for Julio Jones, Jenkins and his $3.5 million in base salary this season were expendable.
Bears To Sign WR Roy Williams
Free agent wide receiver Roy Williams will sign with the Chicago Bears, Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
Williams was released by the Dallas Cowboys in a cost-cutting move on Thursday.
The 29-year-old former first-round pick out of the University of Texas has 356 receptions for 5,208 yards and 42 touchdowns during his seven-year career with the Detroit Lions (2004-08) and Cowboys.
At 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, Williams gives the Bears, and quarterback Jay Cutler, a bigger target to throw to. The top three wide receivers on the team -- Johnny Knox, Devin Hester, and Earl Bennett -- are all under 6-foot tall.
Williams was released by the Dallas Cowboys in a cost-cutting move on Thursday.
The 29-year-old former first-round pick out of the University of Texas has 356 receptions for 5,208 yards and 42 touchdowns during his seven-year career with the Detroit Lions (2004-08) and Cowboys.
At 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, Williams gives the Bears, and quarterback Jay Cutler, a bigger target to throw to. The top three wide receivers on the team -- Johnny Knox, Devin Hester, and Earl Bennett -- are all under 6-foot tall.
Seahawks Agree To Terms With DT Alan Branch
The Seattle Seahawks have agreed to terms on a two-year deal with free agent defensive tackle Alan Branch, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
According to Schefter, Branch's deal is worth $8 million and includes $4 million in guarantees.
A 6-foot-6, 338-pound nose tackle, Branch was a second-round pick (33rd overall) of the Arizona Cardinals out of Michigan in 2007. After appearing in just 15 games during his first two seasons in the league, Branch has appeared in all 32 games between 2009 and 2010, totaling 53 tackles and four quarterback sacks.
The Seahawks have a lack of depth at the defensive tackle, with 2010 starters Brandon Mebane an unrestricted free agent and Colin Cole undergoing ankle surgery in recent weeks. Seattle is attempting to re-sign Mebane, who is reportedly drawing interest from the Denver Broncos. Cole may not be ready for the start of the season.
That leaves just Kentwan Balmer and 2011 seventh-round pick Pep Levingston under contract at the defensive tackle position.
According to Schefter, Branch's deal is worth $8 million and includes $4 million in guarantees.
A 6-foot-6, 338-pound nose tackle, Branch was a second-round pick (33rd overall) of the Arizona Cardinals out of Michigan in 2007. After appearing in just 15 games during his first two seasons in the league, Branch has appeared in all 32 games between 2009 and 2010, totaling 53 tackles and four quarterback sacks.
The Seahawks have a lack of depth at the defensive tackle, with 2010 starters Brandon Mebane an unrestricted free agent and Colin Cole undergoing ankle surgery in recent weeks. Seattle is attempting to re-sign Mebane, who is reportedly drawing interest from the Denver Broncos. Cole may not be ready for the start of the season.
That leaves just Kentwan Balmer and 2011 seventh-round pick Pep Levingston under contract at the defensive tackle position.
Buccaneers Reach Deals With Joseph, Trueblood, Koenen
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have agreed to terms with guard Davin Joseph, offensive tackle Jeremy Trueblood, and free agent punter Michael Koenen, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Schefter reports that Joseph will sign a seven-year deal, Trueblood a two-year deal, and Koenen will sign a six-year deal on Friday.
Joseph (6-foot-3, 313) has only played a full 16-game season twice in the five-year career, starting 67 of the 68 games and earning Pro Bowl honors following the 2008 season. A first-round pick in 2006, Joseph finished 2010 on injured reserve (foot) but was general manager Mark Dominick's top priority this week.
Alex Marvez of FOXSports.com reports Joseph's deal is worth $52.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.
A second-round pick (59th overall) out of Boston College in the same draft that netted Joseph, Trueblood has started 68 of 77 career games, though he spent the few weeks of the 2010 season playing behind restricted free agent James Lee.
Koenen, 29, has spent the last six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, who signed him as an undrafted free agent out of Western Washington in 2005. For his career, Koenen has a net average of 37.4 yards and has placed 150 of his 440 career punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line. Koenen has also handled kickoff duties for the Falcons and has 51 touchbacks of 161 kickoffs (31.7%) over the last two seasons.
Schefter reports that Joseph will sign a seven-year deal, Trueblood a two-year deal, and Koenen will sign a six-year deal on Friday.
Joseph (6-foot-3, 313) has only played a full 16-game season twice in the five-year career, starting 67 of the 68 games and earning Pro Bowl honors following the 2008 season. A first-round pick in 2006, Joseph finished 2010 on injured reserve (foot) but was general manager Mark Dominick's top priority this week.
Alex Marvez of FOXSports.com reports Joseph's deal is worth $52.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.
A second-round pick (59th overall) out of Boston College in the same draft that netted Joseph, Trueblood has started 68 of 77 career games, though he spent the few weeks of the 2010 season playing behind restricted free agent James Lee.
Koenen, 29, has spent the last six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, who signed him as an undrafted free agent out of Western Washington in 2005. For his career, Koenen has a net average of 37.4 yards and has placed 150 of his 440 career punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line. Koenen has also handled kickoff duties for the Falcons and has 51 touchbacks of 161 kickoffs (31.7%) over the last two seasons.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
49ers Place WR Michael Crabtree On PUP
As originally reported by Matt Barrows of The Sacramento Bee, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Michael Crabtree's foot injury will keep him on the sidelines for a couple of weeks of training camp.
The 49ers announced on Thursday night that Crabtree, rookie fullback Bruce Miller, and wide receiver Dominique Zeigler have been placed on the physically unable to perform list.
According to Barrows' report, Crabtree could miss four-to-six weeks of camp, which would be the third straight preseason the 10th overall pick of the 2009 NFL Draft will have missed. Crabtree did not sign his rookie contract until October, and sat out last year's preseason games with a neck injury.
Crabtree re-injured his foot during the the player-run workouts at San Jose State University in June.
In 27 games over his first two seasons in the league, Crabtree has 103 receptions for 1,366 yards and eight touchdowns.
The 49ers announced on Thursday night that Crabtree, rookie fullback Bruce Miller, and wide receiver Dominique Zeigler have been placed on the physically unable to perform list.
According to Barrows' report, Crabtree could miss four-to-six weeks of camp, which would be the third straight preseason the 10th overall pick of the 2009 NFL Draft will have missed. Crabtree did not sign his rookie contract until October, and sat out last year's preseason games with a neck injury.
Crabtree re-injured his foot during the the player-run workouts at San Jose State University in June.
In 27 games over his first two seasons in the league, Crabtree has 103 receptions for 1,366 yards and eight touchdowns.
Panthers LB Jon Beason Agrees To Five-Year Extension
Carolina Panthers linebacker Jon Beason has agreed to terms on a five-year, $50 million contract extension, Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports.
According to Florio, the deal includes $25 million in guarantees.
A first-round pick out of Miami in 2007, Beason has 540 tackles, four quarterback sacks, and eight interceptions in 64 games and has been named to the Pro Bowl after each of the last three seasons. Beason also earned All-Pro honors after the 2008 and 2009 seasons.
Beason was scheduled to earn $1.538 million in the final year of his contract, but will now be manning the middle of Ron Rivera's defense for the foreseeable future.
According to Florio, the deal includes $25 million in guarantees.
A first-round pick out of Miami in 2007, Beason has 540 tackles, four quarterback sacks, and eight interceptions in 64 games and has been named to the Pro Bowl after each of the last three seasons. Beason also earned All-Pro honors after the 2008 and 2009 seasons.
Beason was scheduled to earn $1.538 million in the final year of his contract, but will now be manning the middle of Ron Rivera's defense for the foreseeable future.
Texans Agree To Terms With CB Jonathan Joseph
The Houston Texans have taken a big step towards improving their 32nd-ranked pass defense, agreeing to terms on a five-year deal with free agent cornerback Jonathan Joseph, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
A 2006 first-round pick out of South Carolina, Joseph has 272 tackles and 14 interceptions during his 67-game career. Joseph has returned three of those interceptions for touchdowns.
Joseph will likely be paired with 2010 first-round pick Kareem Jackson, with 2011 second-round pick Brandon Harris, 2011 fourth-round pick Roc Carmichael, and 2009 sixth-round pick Brice McCain competing for roles in dime and nickel packages.
The Texans are moving Glover Quin from cornerback to free safety.
Despite having plenty of cap under the salary cap, the Bengals declined to use the franchise tag on Joseph in February, clearing his path to unrestricted free agency. The Bengals will need to re-sign 2007 first-round cornerback Leon Hall next offseason.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
A 2006 first-round pick out of South Carolina, Joseph has 272 tackles and 14 interceptions during his 67-game career. Joseph has returned three of those interceptions for touchdowns.
Joseph will likely be paired with 2010 first-round pick Kareem Jackson, with 2011 second-round pick Brandon Harris, 2011 fourth-round pick Roc Carmichael, and 2009 sixth-round pick Brice McCain competing for roles in dime and nickel packages.
The Texans are moving Glover Quin from cornerback to free safety.
Despite having plenty of cap under the salary cap, the Bengals declined to use the franchise tag on Joseph in February, clearing his path to unrestricted free agency. The Bengals will need to re-sign 2007 first-round cornerback Leon Hall next offseason.
Steelers Reach Five-Year Deal With Willie Colon
The Pittsburgh Steelers reached a five-year deal with free agent offensive tackle Willie Colon, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
According to La Canfora, Colon's deal is worth $29 million over five seasons.
Colon spent the 2010 season injured reserve after rupturing his Achilles' tendon last June, an injury that Colon says has completely healed. Prior to last season, Colon had started 54 consecutive regular and post-season games for the Steelers, who drafted him in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Hofstra.
Adam Caplan of FOXSports.com reports that Colon was planning to visit the Chicago Bears when visits were allowed on Friday night.
The Steelers released left tackle Max Starks on Thursday, as well.
According to La Canfora, Colon's deal is worth $29 million over five seasons.
Colon spent the 2010 season injured reserve after rupturing his Achilles' tendon last June, an injury that Colon says has completely healed. Prior to last season, Colon had started 54 consecutive regular and post-season games for the Steelers, who drafted him in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Hofstra.
Adam Caplan of FOXSports.com reports that Colon was planning to visit the Chicago Bears when visits were allowed on Friday night.
The Steelers released left tackle Max Starks on Thursday, as well.
Bears Trade TE Greg Olsen To Panthers
The Chicago Bears have traded former first-round tight end Greg Olsen to the Carolina Panthers, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.
According to Biggs, the Bears will receive an undisclosed draft pick and an unidentified player.
Selected with the 31st overall pick out of Miami in 2007, Olsen caught 194 passes for 1,981 yards and 20 touchdowns during his 62-game career with the Bears. Olsen was nearly traded to the New England Patriots during the 2010 NFL Draft, but the Patriots selected Arizona tight end Rob Gronkowski instead.
The Bears gave Olsen's camp to pursue a trade earlier this week.
In addition to trading Olsen, the Bears agreed to terms with tight end Matt Spaeth and released Brandon Manumaleuna.
According to Biggs, the Bears will receive an undisclosed draft pick and an unidentified player.
Selected with the 31st overall pick out of Miami in 2007, Olsen caught 194 passes for 1,981 yards and 20 touchdowns during his 62-game career with the Bears. Olsen was nearly traded to the New England Patriots during the 2010 NFL Draft, but the Patriots selected Arizona tight end Rob Gronkowski instead.
The Bears gave Olsen's camp to pursue a trade earlier this week.
In addition to trading Olsen, the Bears agreed to terms with tight end Matt Spaeth and released Brandon Manumaleuna.
Bengals Trade WR Chad Ochocinco To New England
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco has been traded to the New England Patriots, ESPN's John Clayton reports.
The entertaining wideout had one year and $6.35 million remaining on his current contract, but Clayton reports that Ochocinco has agreed to a three-year restructured contract.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Patriots have sent late round picks in 2012 and 2013 to the Bengals for Ochocinco. Ian Rapoport of the Boston Herald reports the Patriots, Oakland Raiders, and San Francisco 49ers had permission to discuss a trade.
A six-time Pro Bowler who has spent his entire 10-year career with the Bengals, Ochocinco has caught 751 passes for 10,783 yards and 66 touchdowns in 151 games. The 33-year-old can still play at a high level, and he gives New England a deep threat on the outside.
The entertaining wideout had one year and $6.35 million remaining on his current contract, but Clayton reports that Ochocinco has agreed to a three-year restructured contract.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Patriots have sent late round picks in 2012 and 2013 to the Bengals for Ochocinco. Ian Rapoport of the Boston Herald reports the Patriots, Oakland Raiders, and San Francisco 49ers had permission to discuss a trade.
A six-time Pro Bowler who has spent his entire 10-year career with the Bengals, Ochocinco has caught 751 passes for 10,783 yards and 66 touchdowns in 151 games. The 33-year-old can still play at a high level, and he gives New England a deep threat on the outside.
Browns Agree To Terms With S Usama Young
Free agent safety Usama Young has agreed to terms with the Cleveland Browns, reports Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer.
Terms were not disclosed.
Young played his college ball at Kent State before being a 2007 third-round pick (66th overall) of the New Orleans Saints. Over the last four seasons, Young has started six of 52 games and totaled 106 tackles, one quarterback sack, and three interceptions.
39 of Young's tackles have come on special teams, a statistic Young led the Saints in during his first two seasons in the league.
Terms were not disclosed.
Young played his college ball at Kent State before being a 2007 third-round pick (66th overall) of the New Orleans Saints. Over the last four seasons, Young has started six of 52 games and totaled 106 tackles, one quarterback sack, and three interceptions.
39 of Young's tackles have come on special teams, a statistic Young led the Saints in during his first two seasons in the league.
Jaguars Agree To Terms With LB Clint Session
Free agent linebacker Clint Session has agreed to a five-year, $30 million contract, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
According to La Canfora, Session's deal includes an $11.5 million signing bonus.
A 2007 fourth-round pick out of Pittsburgh by the Indianapolis Colts, Session has started 35 of his 48 career games in the NFL, totaling 261 tackles, 1.5 quarterback sacks and four interceptions.
An elbow injury limited Session to just five games last season.
Session is the second free agent linebacker to join the Jaguars' front seven, joining middle linebacker Paul Posluszny, who agreed to a six-year contract earlier this week.
According to La Canfora, Session's deal includes an $11.5 million signing bonus.
A 2007 fourth-round pick out of Pittsburgh by the Indianapolis Colts, Session has started 35 of his 48 career games in the NFL, totaling 261 tackles, 1.5 quarterback sacks and four interceptions.
An elbow injury limited Session to just five games last season.
Session is the second free agent linebacker to join the Jaguars' front seven, joining middle linebacker Paul Posluszny, who agreed to a six-year contract earlier this week.
Cardinals Acquire Kevin Kolb From The Eagles
The long-awaited trade that would send Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb to the Arizona Cardinals is now official.
Multiple news outlets are reporting the completion of the trade, which will have fourth-year cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second-round draft choice headed to the Eagles.
That specific trade compensation was originally reported by Sports Illustrated's Jim Trotter on Wednesday night. What held the deal up was the Cardinals agreeing to terms with Kolb, and Adam Caplan of FOXSports.com reports that Kolb has agreed to a five-year extension worth $63 million, with over $20 million guaranteed.
Kolb has seven career NFL starts, completing 60.8% of his 319 career pass attempts for 2,082 yards with 11 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. The former second-round pick out of the University of Houston was signed through the end of this season at a base salary of $1.392 million.
A first-round pick out of Tennessee State in 2008, Rodgers-Cromartie has started 43 of 48 regular season games, totaling 126 tackles and 13 interceptions, four of which he returned for touchdowns. Rodgers-Cromartie made the Pro Bowl following the 2009 season, and will certainly be a solid right cornerback opposite Asante Samuel.
Rodgers-Cromartie is also signed through the 2012 season at base salaries of $950,000 this season and $1.129 million in 2012, with up to $2.85 million in escalation available for that final year.
Multiple news outlets are reporting the completion of the trade, which will have fourth-year cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second-round draft choice headed to the Eagles.
That specific trade compensation was originally reported by Sports Illustrated's Jim Trotter on Wednesday night. What held the deal up was the Cardinals agreeing to terms with Kolb, and Adam Caplan of FOXSports.com reports that Kolb has agreed to a five-year extension worth $63 million, with over $20 million guaranteed.
Kolb has seven career NFL starts, completing 60.8% of his 319 career pass attempts for 2,082 yards with 11 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. The former second-round pick out of the University of Houston was signed through the end of this season at a base salary of $1.392 million.
A first-round pick out of Tennessee State in 2008, Rodgers-Cromartie has started 43 of 48 regular season games, totaling 126 tackles and 13 interceptions, four of which he returned for touchdowns. Rodgers-Cromartie made the Pro Bowl following the 2009 season, and will certainly be a solid right cornerback opposite Asante Samuel.
Rodgers-Cromartie is also signed through the 2012 season at base salaries of $950,000 this season and $1.129 million in 2012, with up to $2.85 million in escalation available for that final year.
Redskins Agree To Terms With DE Stephen Bowen
Free agent defensive end Stephen Bowen has agreed to terms with the Washington Redskins, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
According to Schefter, Bowen will sign a five-year contract worth $27.5 million, with $12.5 million guaranteed.
Signed by the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent out of Hofstra in 2006, the 6-foot-5, 306-pound Bowen has started 11 of 63 career games, totaling 72 tackles and 5.5 quarterback sacks. After earning the league minimum his first three seasons in the league, Bowen has received restricted free agent tenders at the "Second Round" level in each of the past two seasons, earning a total of $3.304 million in base salary.
Bowen changed agents earlier this month, replacing Dallas-based Jordan Woy with Atlanta-based Pat Dye Jr. of SportsTrust Advisors.
According to Schefter, Bowen will sign a five-year contract worth $27.5 million, with $12.5 million guaranteed.
Signed by the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent out of Hofstra in 2006, the 6-foot-5, 306-pound Bowen has started 11 of 63 career games, totaling 72 tackles and 5.5 quarterback sacks. After earning the league minimum his first three seasons in the league, Bowen has received restricted free agent tenders at the "Second Round" level in each of the past two seasons, earning a total of $3.304 million in base salary.
Bowen changed agents earlier this month, replacing Dallas-based Jordan Woy with Atlanta-based Pat Dye Jr. of SportsTrust Advisors.
Daryn Colledge Gets 5-Years, $27.5M From Cardinals
Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports that free agent guard Daryn Colledge has agreed to a five-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals.
ESPN's John Clayton reports that the deal is worth $27.5 million.
A second-round pick by the Green Bay Packers out of Boise State in 2006, Colledge has started 76 of his 80 career games, including all 16 games in each of the last three seasons.
Colledge's four-year rookie contract was worth $2.91 million. After being denied unrestricted free agency by the uncapped season, Colledge earned $1.759 million in base salary in 2010.
ESPN's John Clayton reports that the deal is worth $27.5 million.
A second-round pick by the Green Bay Packers out of Boise State in 2006, Colledge has started 76 of his 80 career games, including all 16 games in each of the last three seasons.
Colledge's four-year rookie contract was worth $2.91 million. After being denied unrestricted free agency by the uncapped season, Colledge earned $1.759 million in base salary in 2010.
Bengals Guarantee AJ Green's Four-Year Contract
The Cincinnati Bengals have agreed to terms with first-round wide receiver A.J. Green, guaranteeing the entire $19.6 million deal, reports Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
According to a league source, Green will receive a $12.8 million signing bonus and his league minimum base salary of $375,000 in 2011 is fully guaranteed.
Green's base salaries in 2012 ($1.269 million), 2013 ($2.164 million), and 2014 ($3.059 million) are also fully guaranteed. The Bengals will have a club option to extend the deal to a fifth year, which will be valued at the average salary of the Top 10 players at his position.
The Bengals will need to exercise that option after 2013, at which point it will be guaranteed for injury only. If Green is on the roster at the start of the 2015 league year, his salary that season, which could easily exceed $10 million, would be fully guaranteed.
According to a league source, Green will receive a $12.8 million signing bonus and his league minimum base salary of $375,000 in 2011 is fully guaranteed.
Green's base salaries in 2012 ($1.269 million), 2013 ($2.164 million), and 2014 ($3.059 million) are also fully guaranteed. The Bengals will have a club option to extend the deal to a fifth year, which will be valued at the average salary of the Top 10 players at his position.
The Bengals will need to exercise that option after 2013, at which point it will be guaranteed for injury only. If Green is on the roster at the start of the 2015 league year, his salary that season, which could easily exceed $10 million, would be fully guaranteed.
Reggie Bush Agrees To Deal With Dolphins
Running back Reggie Bush has agreed to a new contract that will facilitate his trade from the New Orleans Saints to the Miami Dolphins.
The trade was originally reported by Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com.
According to Andrew Brandt of the National Football Post, Bush's deal with the Dolphins is worth nearly $10 million over two seasons.
In 60 career games, Bush has rushed for just 2,090 yards and 17 touchdowns, but has just 106 carries over the last two seasons. Those carries have gained 540 yards, and according to Mike Lombardi of the NFL Network, Bush will be more of a featured back with the Dolphins, who used a second-round pick in 2011 on Kansas State running back Daniel Thomas.
In addition to his production on the ground, Bush has caught 294 passes for 2,142 yards and 12 touchdowns out of the backfield, and returned four punts for touchdowns, including an NFL-high three in 2008.
The trade was originally reported by Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com.
According to Andrew Brandt of the National Football Post, Bush's deal with the Dolphins is worth nearly $10 million over two seasons.
In 60 career games, Bush has rushed for just 2,090 yards and 17 touchdowns, but has just 106 carries over the last two seasons. Those carries have gained 540 yards, and according to Mike Lombardi of the NFL Network, Bush will be more of a featured back with the Dolphins, who used a second-round pick in 2011 on Kansas State running back Daniel Thomas.
In addition to his production on the ground, Bush has caught 294 passes for 2,142 yards and 12 touchdowns out of the backfield, and returned four punts for touchdowns, including an NFL-high three in 2008.
Kyle Kosier Agree To Three-Year Deal With Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to terms on a three-year deal with left guard Kyle Kosier, Clarence Hill of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.
Kosier's deal, once signed on Friday, will be worth nearly $9 million.
The 32-year-old has 104 career starts during his nine-year career with the San Francisco 49ers (2002-04), Detroit Lions (2005), and Cowboys, where he's started 64 games over the last five seasons.
Dallas reached a four-year deal with left tackle Doug Free on Tuesday, but the Cowboys offensive line will face some shuffling this offseason. Right guard Leonard Davis is expected to be released later today right tackle Marc Colombo may be asked to restructure his contract or be released, as well.
The Cowboys used their first-round pick on USC right tackle Tyron Smith.
Kosier's deal, once signed on Friday, will be worth nearly $9 million.
The 32-year-old has 104 career starts during his nine-year career with the San Francisco 49ers (2002-04), Detroit Lions (2005), and Cowboys, where he's started 64 games over the last five seasons.
Dallas reached a four-year deal with left tackle Doug Free on Tuesday, but the Cowboys offensive line will face some shuffling this offseason. Right guard Leonard Davis is expected to be released later today right tackle Marc Colombo may be asked to restructure his contract or be released, as well.
The Cowboys used their first-round pick on USC right tackle Tyron Smith.
Steelers Release Max Starks, Antwaan Randle El
The Pittsburgh Steelers announced the release of starting left tackle Max Starks and veteran wide receiver Antwaan Randle El.
Since being drafted in the third round of the 2004 NFL Draft out of the University of Florida, Starks started 68 of 95 games during his seven-year career with the Steelers, but finished last season on injured reserve with a neck injury.
Twice franchised, Starks was set to earn $5.14 million in base salary in 2011.
Randle El caught 22 passes for 253 yards and returned 14 punts for a 4.0-yard average in 2010, his first season back in Pittsburgh after spending five seasons with the Washington Redskins.
The former second-round pick out Indiana is the Steelers' all-time leader in punt returns for a touchdown (4).
Combined, Starks and Randel El combined accounted for $9.54 million of the Steelers' cap space in 2011.
Since being drafted in the third round of the 2004 NFL Draft out of the University of Florida, Starks started 68 of 95 games during his seven-year career with the Steelers, but finished last season on injured reserve with a neck injury.
Twice franchised, Starks was set to earn $5.14 million in base salary in 2011.
Randle El caught 22 passes for 253 yards and returned 14 punts for a 4.0-yard average in 2010, his first season back in Pittsburgh after spending five seasons with the Washington Redskins.
The former second-round pick out Indiana is the Steelers' all-time leader in punt returns for a touchdown (4).
Combined, Starks and Randel El combined accounted for $9.54 million of the Steelers' cap space in 2011.
Jason Babin Returns To The Eagles
Free agent defensive end Jason Babin has agreed to a five-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com reports.
According to Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean, Babin's deal is worth $28 million with between $5 million to $6 million in guarantees.
A 2004 first-round pick out of Western Michigan by the Houston Texans, Babin spent the 2009 season with the Eagles, recording 2.5 sacks in 12 games before signing a one-year contract with the Tennessee Titans in 2010.
A 16-game starter in Tennessee, Babin recorded a career-high 12.5 sacks and earned Pro Bowl honors for the first time in his career playing on a defensive line that was coached by Jim Washburn, who left the Titans for Philadelphia earlier this year.
In 82 career games with the Texans (2004-06), Seattle Seahawks (2007-08), Kansas City Chiefs (2008), Eagles, and Titans, the 31-year-old has 230 tackles and 30 quarterback sacks.
According to Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean, Babin's deal is worth $28 million with between $5 million to $6 million in guarantees.
A 2004 first-round pick out of Western Michigan by the Houston Texans, Babin spent the 2009 season with the Eagles, recording 2.5 sacks in 12 games before signing a one-year contract with the Tennessee Titans in 2010.
A 16-game starter in Tennessee, Babin recorded a career-high 12.5 sacks and earned Pro Bowl honors for the first time in his career playing on a defensive line that was coached by Jim Washburn, who left the Titans for Philadelphia earlier this year.
In 82 career games with the Texans (2004-06), Seattle Seahawks (2007-08), Kansas City Chiefs (2008), Eagles, and Titans, the 31-year-old has 230 tackles and 30 quarterback sacks.
Bears Agree To Terms With P Adam Podlesh
The Chicago Bears have agreed to terms with veteran punter Adam Podlesh, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Financial terms of the five-year deal were not disclosed.
A fourth-round pick (101st overall) out of Maryland in 2007, Podlesh has averaged 37.8 yards per punt over the last four seasons, placing 75 punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line with a long of 76 yards. Last season, Podlesh set a career-high with a 39.2-yard net average and 26 punts inside the 20.
Earlier this week, the Bears informed veteran punter Brad Maynard that he would not be re-signed.
Financial terms of the five-year deal were not disclosed.
A fourth-round pick (101st overall) out of Maryland in 2007, Podlesh has averaged 37.8 yards per punt over the last four seasons, placing 75 punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line with a long of 76 yards. Last season, Podlesh set a career-high with a 39.2-yard net average and 26 punts inside the 20.
Earlier this week, the Bears informed veteran punter Brad Maynard that he would not be re-signed.
Patriots Trade For Albert Haynesworth
The New England Patriots have traded a fifth-round pick in 2013 to the Washington Redskins for defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Signed by the Redskins to a seven-year, $100 million contract in 2009, Haynesworth has 53 tackles and 6.5 quarterback sacks in 20 games over the last two seasons. Haynesworth openly questioned defensive coordinator Greg Blache in 2009 and, when the team changed coordinators last offseason, was not happy with his role in Jim Haslett's 3-4 defense.
Despite receiving a $21 million bonus last March, Haynesworth clashed with head coach Mike Shanahan at the start of last year's training camp. Haynesworth failed to pass the team's conditioning test, forcing him to spend the first few days of camp learning his assignments against 55-gallon trash cans instead of actual offensive linemen.
Haynesworth dressed for eight games before the team suspended him for the final four weeks of the season.
The two-time Pro Bowler is due $5.4 million in base salary in 2011.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has fared well with reclamation projects in the past.
Running back Corey Dillon went to the Pro Bowl his first season with the Patriots (2004) and scored 37 touchdowns over three seasons in New England. Wide receiver Randy Moss had essentially quit on the Oakland Raiders, deflating his trade value, when Belichick stole him for a fourth-round pick during the 2007 NFL Draft. Moss caught 83 passes for 1,264 yards and 23 touchdowns in the Patriots' 16-0 regular season his first season in New England, and in 51 games over 3+ plus seasons, caught 259 passes for 3,904 yards and 50 touchdowns.
Two months ago, Haynesworth reached an out-of-court settlement with a man he allegedly punched in a road rage incident, and in February, was accused of fondling a cocktail waitress and is due in D.C. Superior Court to answer to sexual abuse charges on August 23.
Signed by the Redskins to a seven-year, $100 million contract in 2009, Haynesworth has 53 tackles and 6.5 quarterback sacks in 20 games over the last two seasons. Haynesworth openly questioned defensive coordinator Greg Blache in 2009 and, when the team changed coordinators last offseason, was not happy with his role in Jim Haslett's 3-4 defense.
Despite receiving a $21 million bonus last March, Haynesworth clashed with head coach Mike Shanahan at the start of last year's training camp. Haynesworth failed to pass the team's conditioning test, forcing him to spend the first few days of camp learning his assignments against 55-gallon trash cans instead of actual offensive linemen.
Haynesworth dressed for eight games before the team suspended him for the final four weeks of the season.
The two-time Pro Bowler is due $5.4 million in base salary in 2011.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has fared well with reclamation projects in the past.
Running back Corey Dillon went to the Pro Bowl his first season with the Patriots (2004) and scored 37 touchdowns over three seasons in New England. Wide receiver Randy Moss had essentially quit on the Oakland Raiders, deflating his trade value, when Belichick stole him for a fourth-round pick during the 2007 NFL Draft. Moss caught 83 passes for 1,264 yards and 23 touchdowns in the Patriots' 16-0 regular season his first season in New England, and in 51 games over 3+ plus seasons, caught 259 passes for 3,904 yards and 50 touchdowns.
Two months ago, Haynesworth reached an out-of-court settlement with a man he allegedly punched in a road rage incident, and in February, was accused of fondling a cocktail waitress and is due in D.C. Superior Court to answer to sexual abuse charges on August 23.
Saints, Dolphins Close On Reggie Bush Trade
Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com reports the Miami Dolphins and New Orleans Saints "have worked out terms" of a trade that would send running back Reggie Bush to the Dolphins.
Glazer adds that the deal is contingent upon Bush accepting a new contract with the Dolphins, where the second overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft would be a complementary back to 2011 second-round pick Daniel Thomas.
Bush is due $11.8 million in base salary in the final year of his rookie contract, and his agent, Joel Segal, is negotiating with Miami. Bush has indicated a desire to remain with the Saints, which could still happen on a reduced contract.
If the Saints were to release him before the start of the league year, the Dolphins would face competition from the Philadelphia Eagles and possibly the St. Louis Rams for Bush's services.
In 60 career games, Bush has rushed for just 2,090 yards and 17 touchdowns, but has caught 294 passes for 2,142 yards and 12 touchdowns out of the backfield. Bush has also returned four punts for touchdowns, including an NFL-high three in 2008.
Glazer adds that the deal is contingent upon Bush accepting a new contract with the Dolphins, where the second overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft would be a complementary back to 2011 second-round pick Daniel Thomas.
Bush is due $11.8 million in base salary in the final year of his rookie contract, and his agent, Joel Segal, is negotiating with Miami. Bush has indicated a desire to remain with the Saints, which could still happen on a reduced contract.
If the Saints were to release him before the start of the league year, the Dolphins would face competition from the Philadelphia Eagles and possibly the St. Louis Rams for Bush's services.
In 60 career games, Bush has rushed for just 2,090 yards and 17 touchdowns, but has caught 294 passes for 2,142 yards and 12 touchdowns out of the backfield. Bush has also returned four punts for touchdowns, including an NFL-high three in 2008.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
McNabb-To-The-Vikings Trade Official
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that trade that will send Washington Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb to the Minnesota Vikings is now official.
In exchange for McNabb, the Redskins will receive a sixth-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and a conditional sixth-round pick in 2013, with McNabb agreeing to re-work the final five years of his contract.
Terms of his restructured deal have not been reported.
The 34-year-old McNabb has long been linked to the Vikings, and will likely open the season as the starting quarterback while 2011 first-round pick Christian Ponder gets acclimated to the NFL.
An official announcement is expected on Thursday or Friday.
In exchange for McNabb, the Redskins will receive a sixth-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and a conditional sixth-round pick in 2013, with McNabb agreeing to re-work the final five years of his contract.
Terms of his restructured deal have not been reported.
The 34-year-old McNabb has long been linked to the Vikings, and will likely open the season as the starting quarterback while 2011 first-round pick Christian Ponder gets acclimated to the NFL.
An official announcement is expected on Thursday or Friday.
Seahawks Agree To Terms With WR Sidney Rice
The Seattle Seahawks have agreed to terms with free agent wide receiver Sidney Rice, Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com reports.
Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports that Rice's five-year deal is worth $41 million and includes $18.5 million in guaranteed money.
According to Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network, Rice's deal has an additional $3 million in Pro Bowl escalators.
A 2007 second-round pick (44th overall) out of South Carolina by the Minnesota Vikings, Rice (6-4, 202) has 146 receptions for 2,129 yards and 18 touchdowns during his four-year career. Rice's top season, by far, came in 2009, when he caught 83 passes for 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors as Brett Favre's preferred target.
A hip injury landed Rice on the physically unable to perform list at the start of last season, with Rice catching just 17 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns in six games.
Rice will have to pass a physical before the deal becomes official on Friday.
Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports that Rice's five-year deal is worth $41 million and includes $18.5 million in guaranteed money.
According to Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network, Rice's deal has an additional $3 million in Pro Bowl escalators.
A 2007 second-round pick (44th overall) out of South Carolina by the Minnesota Vikings, Rice (6-4, 202) has 146 receptions for 2,129 yards and 18 touchdowns during his four-year career. Rice's top season, by far, came in 2009, when he caught 83 passes for 1,312 yards and eight touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors as Brett Favre's preferred target.
A hip injury landed Rice on the physically unable to perform list at the start of last season, with Rice catching just 17 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns in six games.
Rice will have to pass a physical before the deal becomes official on Friday.
49ers Agree To Five-Year Deal With Ray McDonald
The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to terms on a five-year deal with defensive end Ray McDonald, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
McDonald's deal is worth $20 million, with $7 million guaranteed, Schefter adds.
A third-round pick out of Florida in 2007, McDonald has started nine of 56 games over the last four seasons, totaling 57 tackles, five quarterback sacks and an interception, which he returned 31 yards for a touchdown.
McDonald is projected to start at left defensive end in the 49ers' 3-4 defense, with Isaac Sopoaga moving to nose tackle to replace Aubrayo Franklin, who is expected to move on in free agency.
McDonald's deal is worth $20 million, with $7 million guaranteed, Schefter adds.
A third-round pick out of Florida in 2007, McDonald has started nine of 56 games over the last four seasons, totaling 57 tackles, five quarterback sacks and an interception, which he returned 31 yards for a touchdown.
McDonald is projected to start at left defensive end in the 49ers' 3-4 defense, with Isaac Sopoaga moving to nose tackle to replace Aubrayo Franklin, who is expected to move on in free agency.
Redskins Agree To Terms With CB Josh Wilson
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Washington Redskins have agreed to a three-year deal with free agent cornerback Josh Wilson.
According to Schefter, the deal is worth $13.5 million and includes $6 million in guarantees.
Wilson was a 2007 second-round pick (55th overall) of the Seattle Seahawks, where he started 24 of 40 games before he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens last September for a conditional draft choice.
The Maryland native, and University of Maryland alum, has started 33 of 54 games in his four-year career, and has 170 tackles, two quarterback sacks, and nine interceptions, four of which he's returned for touchdowns. Wilson has also returned kicks during his career, averaging 24.7 yards on 100 career kick returns with one touchdown.
According to Schefter, the deal is worth $13.5 million and includes $6 million in guarantees.
Wilson was a 2007 second-round pick (55th overall) of the Seattle Seahawks, where he started 24 of 40 games before he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens last September for a conditional draft choice.
The Maryland native, and University of Maryland alum, has started 33 of 54 games in his four-year career, and has 170 tackles, two quarterback sacks, and nine interceptions, four of which he's returned for touchdowns. Wilson has also returned kicks during his career, averaging 24.7 yards on 100 career kick returns with one touchdown.
49ers To Release CB Nate Clements (Update)
The San Francisco 49ers have informed cornerback Nate Clements that he will be released, reports Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area.
Clements, 31, was due to earn $7.25 million in base salary in 2011, but had a $7.95 million incentive in his contract that increased his cap number to over $17 million. By releasing Clements, the 49ers have cleared over $14 million in cap space in 2011.
A 2001 first-round pick out of Ohio State by the Buffalo Bills, Clements has 33 interceptions over his 10-year career, the last four of which has been spent with the 49ers.
In 54 games in a 49ers' uniform, Clements totaled 262 tackles, two quarterback sacks and 10 interceptions.
UPDATE: The move is not official, and has been denied by Todd France, Clements' agent. No player can be released before 4:01pm ET on Thursday.
Clements, 31, was due to earn $7.25 million in base salary in 2011, but had a $7.95 million incentive in his contract that increased his cap number to over $17 million. By releasing Clements, the 49ers have cleared over $14 million in cap space in 2011.
A 2001 first-round pick out of Ohio State by the Buffalo Bills, Clements has 33 interceptions over his 10-year career, the last four of which has been spent with the 49ers.
In 54 games in a 49ers' uniform, Clements totaled 262 tackles, two quarterback sacks and 10 interceptions.
UPDATE: The move is not official, and has been denied by Todd France, Clements' agent. No player can be released before 4:01pm ET on Thursday.
Panthers Reach Deals With LBs Thomas Davis, James Anderson
Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer reports the Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms with linebackers Thomas Davis and James Anderson.
Financial details of both deals were not disclosed, but ESPN's John Clayton reports that Anderson received $22 million over five seasons, with $8.5 million guaranteed.
Clayton adds that Davis is back on a one-year, $3.2 million deal.
Davis, a first-round pick in 2005, has missed most of the last two seasons after tearing his ACL midway through the final year of his rookie contract. Davis tore the same ligament during a non-contact drill during the 2010 OTAs and spent the season on the physically unable to perform list.
In 69 career games, Davis has 388 tackles, 11 quarterback sacks, and three interceptions.
A 2006 third-round pick (88th overall) out of Virginia Tech, Anderson has 236 tackles, 6.5 quarterback sacks, and one interception in 66 career games. Injuries to Davis and Dan Connor created an opportunity for Anderson to log more playing time in 2010.
Anderson posted a team-high 130 tackles, including 13.5 for a loss and 3.5 quarterback sacks, in 16 games in 2010.
With Anderson, Davis, Charles Johnson, and DeAngelo Williams signed for the long-term, the Panthers can now turn their attention towards franchised center Ryan Kalil and middle linebacker Jon Beason.
Beason is entering the final year of his rookie contract.
Financial details of both deals were not disclosed, but ESPN's John Clayton reports that Anderson received $22 million over five seasons, with $8.5 million guaranteed.
Clayton adds that Davis is back on a one-year, $3.2 million deal.
Davis, a first-round pick in 2005, has missed most of the last two seasons after tearing his ACL midway through the final year of his rookie contract. Davis tore the same ligament during a non-contact drill during the 2010 OTAs and spent the season on the physically unable to perform list.
In 69 career games, Davis has 388 tackles, 11 quarterback sacks, and three interceptions.
A 2006 third-round pick (88th overall) out of Virginia Tech, Anderson has 236 tackles, 6.5 quarterback sacks, and one interception in 66 career games. Injuries to Davis and Dan Connor created an opportunity for Anderson to log more playing time in 2010.
Anderson posted a team-high 130 tackles, including 13.5 for a loss and 3.5 quarterback sacks, in 16 games in 2010.
With Anderson, Davis, Charles Johnson, and DeAngelo Williams signed for the long-term, the Panthers can now turn their attention towards franchised center Ryan Kalil and middle linebacker Jon Beason.
Beason is entering the final year of his rookie contract.
Buccaneers Reach 5-Year Deal With LB Quincy Black
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have reached a five-year deal with outside linebacker Quincy Black, Adam Caplan of FOXSports.com reports.
According to Caplan, the deal is worth $29 million and includes $11.5 million in guaranteed money.
A 2007 third-round pick (68th overall) out of the University of New Mexico, Black (6-2, 240) spent two years as a reserve before moving into the starting lineup in 2009. During his 58-game career, Black has 189 tackles, 3.5 quarterback sacks and a pair of interceptions.
Black has 145 tackles, 3.5 quarterback sacks, and a pair of interceptions in 23 starts over the past two seasons.
Black's extension could spell the end of Barrett Ruud's tenure with the Buccaneers. Ruud has led the team in tackles the last four seasons, but the team is high on Tyrone McKenzie and used a 2011 third-round pick on former University of Washington linebacker Mason Foster.
According to Caplan, the deal is worth $29 million and includes $11.5 million in guaranteed money.
A 2007 third-round pick (68th overall) out of the University of New Mexico, Black (6-2, 240) spent two years as a reserve before moving into the starting lineup in 2009. During his 58-game career, Black has 189 tackles, 3.5 quarterback sacks and a pair of interceptions.
Black has 145 tackles, 3.5 quarterback sacks, and a pair of interceptions in 23 starts over the past two seasons.
Black's extension could spell the end of Barrett Ruud's tenure with the Buccaneers. Ruud has led the team in tackles the last four seasons, but the team is high on Tyrone McKenzie and used a 2011 third-round pick on former University of Washington linebacker Mason Foster.
Vinatieri To Remain With Colts
The Indianapolis Colts have reached agreement on a three-year deal with veteran kicker Adam Vinatieri, Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Vinatieri has spent the past five seasons with the Colts, and is coming off a season where he converted on 26-of-28 field goal attempts, with one of his two misses coming via a blocked kick in a Week 6 win 27-24 over the Washington Redskins.
Aside from that game, Vinatieri was perfect on the regular season, and went 3-for-3 in a playoff loss to the New York Jets.
One of the most clutch kickers in NFL post-season history, Vinatieri is a two-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro who helped the New England Patriots to three Super Bowl wins before signing with the Colts in 2006 and earning a fourth Super Bowl ring in six seasons.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Vinatieri has spent the past five seasons with the Colts, and is coming off a season where he converted on 26-of-28 field goal attempts, with one of his two misses coming via a blocked kick in a Week 6 win 27-24 over the Washington Redskins.
Aside from that game, Vinatieri was perfect on the regular season, and went 3-for-3 in a playoff loss to the New York Jets.
One of the most clutch kickers in NFL post-season history, Vinatieri is a two-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro who helped the New England Patriots to three Super Bowl wins before signing with the Colts in 2006 and earning a fourth Super Bowl ring in six seasons.
Melvin Bullitt Staying In Indianapolis
Free agent safety Melvin Bullitt has agreed to terms on a multi-year deal that will keep him with the Indianapolis Colts, Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star reports.
Exact terms were not disclosed.
The former undrafted free agent from Texas A&M has started 24 of his 48 career games, totaling 182 tackles and six interceptions. Bullitt is coming off a shoulder injury that limited him to four games in 2010.
Exact terms were not disclosed.
The former undrafted free agent from Texas A&M has started 24 of his 48 career games, totaling 182 tackles and six interceptions. Bullitt is coming off a shoulder injury that limited him to four games in 2010.
49ers RB Frank Gore May Hold Out
San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore may stage a training camp holdout, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Gore is scheduled to earn $5 million in the final year of his current contract.
The two-time Pro Bowler has not played a full 16-game schedule since his first Pro Bowl season in 2006. Last year, Gore ran for 853 yards and three touchdowns, with 46 receptions for 452 yards and two scores, before finishing the year on injured reserve with a fractured hip.
Schefter points out that Gore has undergone multiple shoulder and knee surgeries and that at 28-years-old, this may be his best and last opportunity for a big payday.
Gore is scheduled to earn $5 million in the final year of his current contract.
The two-time Pro Bowler has not played a full 16-game schedule since his first Pro Bowl season in 2006. Last year, Gore ran for 853 yards and three touchdowns, with 46 receptions for 452 yards and two scores, before finishing the year on injured reserve with a fractured hip.
Schefter points out that Gore has undergone multiple shoulder and knee surgeries and that at 28-years-old, this may be his best and last opportunity for a big payday.
Olindo Mare Agrees To Terms With Panthers
Free agent kicker Olindo Mare has agreed to terms with the Carolina Panthers, reports Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com.
According to PFT, Mare received a four-year deal worth $12 million and a $4 million signing bonus.
The 38-year-old Mare has connected on 81.4% of 403 field goal attempts during his 14-year career with the Miami Dolphins (1997-2006), New Orleans Saints (2007), and Seattle Seahawks (2008-10).
Mare connected on 88% of his 83 field goal attempts during his three seasons in Seattle, including a career-high 92.3% in 2009, prompting the Seahawks to place the franchise tag on him last offseason.
Mare's signing with the Panthers spells the end for 41-year-old John Kasay, who has been with the franchise since 1995. Kasay was 25-of-29 on field goal attempts last season, but has not handled kickoff duties over the last three seasons, forcing the Panthers to carry an extra kicker. Mare still has one of the strongest legs in league, averaging 21 touchbacks per season for the Seahawks. The new kickoff rules figure to only increase those numbers.
Kasay is due $2 million in base salary in each of the two remaining seasons on his contract.
According to PFT, Mare received a four-year deal worth $12 million and a $4 million signing bonus.
The 38-year-old Mare has connected on 81.4% of 403 field goal attempts during his 14-year career with the Miami Dolphins (1997-2006), New Orleans Saints (2007), and Seattle Seahawks (2008-10).
Mare connected on 88% of his 83 field goal attempts during his three seasons in Seattle, including a career-high 92.3% in 2009, prompting the Seahawks to place the franchise tag on him last offseason.
Mare's signing with the Panthers spells the end for 41-year-old John Kasay, who has been with the franchise since 1995. Kasay was 25-of-29 on field goal attempts last season, but has not handled kickoff duties over the last three seasons, forcing the Panthers to carry an extra kicker. Mare still has one of the strongest legs in league, averaging 21 touchbacks per season for the Seahawks. The new kickoff rules figure to only increase those numbers.
Kasay is due $2 million in base salary in each of the two remaining seasons on his contract.
Matt Leinart Returning To The Texans
Free agent quarterback Matt Leinart is returning to the Houston Texans, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Reports on Tuesday that Leinart was headed to the Seattle Seahawks were premature, and once the Seahawks signed Tarvaris Jackson to a two-year, $8 million contract, Leinart was out of the picture.
Originally selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 10th overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft out of USC, Leinart started 17 of 29 games his first four seasons in the NFL before the Cardinals released him last September. Leinart signed a one-year deal with the Texans, but was the team's third quarterback throughout the season.
For his career, Leinart has completed 57.1% of 595 pass attempts for 3,893 yards with 14 touchdowns and 20 interceptions for a passer rating of 70.8.
It's unlikely that Leinart would return to the Texans if he were going to be the No. 3 quarterback again, which could be bad news for Dan Orlovsky, who is due $2.75 million in base salary in the final year of his contract.
Reports on Tuesday that Leinart was headed to the Seattle Seahawks were premature, and once the Seahawks signed Tarvaris Jackson to a two-year, $8 million contract, Leinart was out of the picture.
Originally selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 10th overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft out of USC, Leinart started 17 of 29 games his first four seasons in the NFL before the Cardinals released him last September. Leinart signed a one-year deal with the Texans, but was the team's third quarterback throughout the season.
For his career, Leinart has completed 57.1% of 595 pass attempts for 3,893 yards with 14 touchdowns and 20 interceptions for a passer rating of 70.8.
It's unlikely that Leinart would return to the Texans if he were going to be the No. 3 quarterback again, which could be bad news for Dan Orlovsky, who is due $2.75 million in base salary in the final year of his contract.
Seahawks To Add OL Robert Gallery
Free agent guard Robert Gallery has agreed to terms on a three-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
The second overall pick of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, the 2003 Outland Trophy began his NFL career at offensive tackle before moving inside to guard. Gallery has appeared in 92 of a possible 112 games, starting all but one game. (Gallery did not start the season-opener of his rookie season)
Once he signs with the Seahawks on Friday, Gallery will reunite with offensive line coach Tom Cable, his position and then head coach with the Raiders the last few seasons.
Projected to start at left guard, the 31-year-old Gallery is six years older than any other projected starter on a Seahawks offensive line that could have two rookies (John Moffitt, James Carpenter) starting on the right side. 25-year-old center Max Unger was the previous elder statesmen.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
The second overall pick of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, the 2003 Outland Trophy began his NFL career at offensive tackle before moving inside to guard. Gallery has appeared in 92 of a possible 112 games, starting all but one game. (Gallery did not start the season-opener of his rookie season)
Once he signs with the Seahawks on Friday, Gallery will reunite with offensive line coach Tom Cable, his position and then head coach with the Raiders the last few seasons.
Projected to start at left guard, the 31-year-old Gallery is six years older than any other projected starter on a Seahawks offensive line that could have two rookies (John Moffitt, James Carpenter) starting on the right side. 25-year-old center Max Unger was the previous elder statesmen.
Panthers Agree To Terms With RB DeAngelo Williams
Free agent running back DeAngelo Williams will remain with the Carolina Panthers, agreeing to a five-year, $43 million contract, Michael Lombardi of the NFL Network reports.
Williams' deal includes $21 million in guaranteed money, Lombardi adds.
The 27th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, Williams has 4,211 yards and 31 touchdowns on the ground, including an NFL-high 18 scores in 2008, and 118 receptions for 922 yards and four touchdowns out of the backfield. Williams made the Pro Bowl in 2009, but a foot injury limited him to just six games in 2010.
Williams, 28, had hoped to remain with the Panthers.
"I honestly and truly want to stay a Carolina Panther and they’re doing their part of keep me a Carolina Panther," Williams said earlier this week. "So I’m very excited about that. Carolina gets the first stab at me. If everything looks great, then why entertain other offers? So that’s where we stand right now."
By offering $21 million guaranteed, Panthers general manager Marty Hurney took a very strong stab.
Williams' deal includes $21 million in guaranteed money, Lombardi adds.
The 27th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, Williams has 4,211 yards and 31 touchdowns on the ground, including an NFL-high 18 scores in 2008, and 118 receptions for 922 yards and four touchdowns out of the backfield. Williams made the Pro Bowl in 2009, but a foot injury limited him to just six games in 2010.
Williams, 28, had hoped to remain with the Panthers.
"I honestly and truly want to stay a Carolina Panther and they’re doing their part of keep me a Carolina Panther," Williams said earlier this week. "So I’m very excited about that. Carolina gets the first stab at me. If everything looks great, then why entertain other offers? So that’s where we stand right now."
By offering $21 million guaranteed, Panthers general manager Marty Hurney took a very strong stab.
Chargers Agree To Terms With S Eric Weddle
The San Diego Chargers have agreed to terms with free agent safety Eric Weddle, Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the deal is believed to make Weddle the highest-paid safety in NFL history.
UPDATE: Acee reports Weddle received $40 million over five seasons with $19 million guaranteed.
San Diego traded up to select the former Utah standout with the 37th overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft. In 60 career games, and 45 starts, Weddle has 358 tackles, 4 quarterback sacks, and 6 interceptions, two of which he's returned for touchdowns.
Though Weddle has not gone to a Pro Bowl, he's played at that level in each of the last two seasons as the most consistent player on a defense that ranked first in total defense and pass defense in 2010.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the deal is believed to make Weddle the highest-paid safety in NFL history.
UPDATE: Acee reports Weddle received $40 million over five seasons with $19 million guaranteed.
San Diego traded up to select the former Utah standout with the 37th overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft. In 60 career games, and 45 starts, Weddle has 358 tackles, 4 quarterback sacks, and 6 interceptions, two of which he's returned for touchdowns.
Though Weddle has not gone to a Pro Bowl, he's played at that level in each of the last two seasons as the most consistent player on a defense that ranked first in total defense and pass defense in 2010.
Giants HC Tom Coughlin Signs One-Year Extension
The New York Giants have announced that head coach Tom Coughlin has signed a one-year contract extension.
"As we said after the season, we strongly believe in Tom," President John Mara said. "We believe in the job he has done, and we believe in his ability to lead our team in the future. Everybody was on the same page in arriving at the extension."
Coughlin has a 65-47 regular season record with the Giants, and is 4-3 in the playoffs, including a win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. Coughlin turns 65 in August, and was entering the final year of his contract.
"As I was when I was hired in 2004, I am grateful for the opportunity," said Coughlin. "To be the head coach of the New York Giants is the fulfillment of a dream for somebody who grew up where I grew up and when I grew up. As I have said roughly a thousand times, we’re all on one-year contracts in this business, but the reality is that I am thankful to work for people like the Maras and the Tisches and with people like (General Manager) Jerry Reese and his staff, as well as my coaching staff and our players."
"As we said after the season, we strongly believe in Tom," President John Mara said. "We believe in the job he has done, and we believe in his ability to lead our team in the future. Everybody was on the same page in arriving at the extension."
Coughlin has a 65-47 regular season record with the Giants, and is 4-3 in the playoffs, including a win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. Coughlin turns 65 in August, and was entering the final year of his contract.
"As I was when I was hired in 2004, I am grateful for the opportunity," said Coughlin. "To be the head coach of the New York Giants is the fulfillment of a dream for somebody who grew up where I grew up and when I grew up. As I have said roughly a thousand times, we’re all on one-year contracts in this business, but the reality is that I am thankful to work for people like the Maras and the Tisches and with people like (General Manager) Jerry Reese and his staff, as well as my coaching staff and our players."
Kellen Clemens Reaches 1-Year Deal With Redskins
Free agent quarterback Kellen Clemens has agreed to a one-year deal with the Washington Redskins, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Clemens was a second-round pick (49th overall) out of Oregon by the New York Jets in 2006. Over his five seasons with the Jets, Clemens started nine of 25 games, completing 51.8% of 284 pass attempts for 1,686 yards with five touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
Denied unrestricted free agency last offseason by the uncapped year, Clemens receiving an "Original Round" tender, worth $1.176 million in salary. As HBO's "Hard Knocks" cameras documented, Clemens was faced with a "restructure or be released" proposition from Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum, agreeing to take $725,000 in total compensation to remain with the club.
Clemens appeared in one game for the Jets last season, their meaningless regular season finale, completing one-of-two pass attempts for six yards and scoring the second rushing touchdown of his career.
In Washington, Clemens would compete with John Beck, and likely another veteran like Rex Grossman, for the starting job.
Clemens was a second-round pick (49th overall) out of Oregon by the New York Jets in 2006. Over his five seasons with the Jets, Clemens started nine of 25 games, completing 51.8% of 284 pass attempts for 1,686 yards with five touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
Denied unrestricted free agency last offseason by the uncapped year, Clemens receiving an "Original Round" tender, worth $1.176 million in salary. As HBO's "Hard Knocks" cameras documented, Clemens was faced with a "restructure or be released" proposition from Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum, agreeing to take $725,000 in total compensation to remain with the club.
Clemens appeared in one game for the Jets last season, their meaningless regular season finale, completing one-of-two pass attempts for six yards and scoring the second rushing touchdown of his career.
In Washington, Clemens would compete with John Beck, and likely another veteran like Rex Grossman, for the starting job.
Santonio Holmes Agrees To Terms With Jets
Free agent wide receiver Santonio Holmes has agreed to terms with the New York Jets, Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News.
According to Mehta, Holmes will sign a five-year deal. Financial terms were not disclosed, though dynamic play-makers like Holmes can command deals that average $10 million per season.
UPDATE: ESPN's Adam Schefter has reported that Holmes' deal is worth $50 million with $24 million guaranteed.
Acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers last offseason, Holmes served a four-game suspension for violating the substance abuse policy to open the season before catching 52 passes for 706 yards and six touchdowns in 12 regular season games.
Holmes added nine receptions for 127 yards and 2 touchdowns in the post-season.
The former first-round pick out of Ohio State has caught 287 passes for 4,4581 yards and 26 touchdowns in his five-year career.
According to Mehta, Holmes will sign a five-year deal. Financial terms were not disclosed, though dynamic play-makers like Holmes can command deals that average $10 million per season.
UPDATE: ESPN's Adam Schefter has reported that Holmes' deal is worth $50 million with $24 million guaranteed.
Acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers last offseason, Holmes served a four-game suspension for violating the substance abuse policy to open the season before catching 52 passes for 706 yards and six touchdowns in 12 regular season games.
Holmes added nine receptions for 127 yards and 2 touchdowns in the post-season.
The former first-round pick out of Ohio State has caught 287 passes for 4,4581 yards and 26 touchdowns in his five-year career.
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