NFL Rumors : Red-faced Reid tells Eagles 'jobs are on the line'
got through," said Dawkins, who has been around too long to think meetings are a silver bullet. "We'll see. Talking only goes so far."
Source: Philly.com Read more...NFL Rumors : Belichick throws red flag on instant replay angles
Bill Belichick's talked Friday about the number of angles provided by instant-replay cameras. The New England Patriots coach was angling for better coverage, enabling the decision-makers on the field to make a better determination of whether to challenge a play. "Well, that is the whole issue with instant replay," Belichick said. "When you challenge a play, you have no way of knowing what the camera angles are. That's why I said, going all the way back to the Denver game in 2005, if we at least had a camera placed like in tennis, on the goal line, the end line, and on the sideline so you have six cameras [and] you know that [if] the play involved any one of those positions, you at least have a camera angle on it, so you know what you are challenging."Belichick said he understood the play "that happens out in the middle of the field" to determine placement or possession of the ball often can be "the luck of the draw.""But a play that was on the goal line like [Benjamin] Watson's play with Champ Bailey [in the 2005 playoffs] was, or a play that was on the sideline, you don't know for sure that you have an angle on that," he said. "You think you would but you don't know, and that is what happened in the Denver game [when Bailey was ruled down at the Patriots' 1, although Watson had separated him from the ball, which went through the end zone]. All the cameras are down at the other end and they didn't have a good angle on it, supposedly."So I don't understand why we can't put six cameras in every stadium and just say, 'OK, here is where they are,' whether the game's a division championship game with 25 cameras [covering] it or whether it is a regular-season game with how
ever many they have on that [game]."
Source: Boston.com Read more...Bears' Orton practiced like a starting quarterback
Chicago Bears quarterback had his sprained right ankle wrapped, but he prepared during Wednesday's practice like a starting quarterback.I'm preparing like I am [playing]," Orton said. "Just going to go from there, day in and day out."Coach Lovie Smith was asked whether Orton needed to be 100 percent to play."100 percent? Now that's pretty strong," Smith said. "Who is 100 percent at this time of the year? We won't let Kyle play if he can't protect himself. ... We'll know if he's ready to go."If Orton is unable to go, Rex Grossman would get the call for the second straight week."I have to prepare like I'm playing the whole game," Grossman said. "I don't know what's going on, but that's how I am approaching it."
Orton has yet to play at Lambeau Field, while Grossman has enjoyed great success in Green Bay.
"I'm 3-0 as a starter up there," Grossman said. "I'm feeling pretty good about that stadium."
Source: Chicago Tribune Read more...Romo, Owens could be connecting more often this week
Terrell Owens said the Cowboys have "tweaked" some of what they do offensively over the bye week. Tony Romo coyly talked about some "different things" that have him excited about what is ahead for the offense. Neither player would go into specifics, of course, but would any of those things involve freeing up Owens?
"You could possibly say that," Romo told the Dallas Morning News.
At 5-4, the Cowboys are entering their most critical part of the season Sunday at Washington and need Romo, who has missed the last three games with a fractured right pinkie, to play like the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback he is. And for Owens to be Owens.
"We're looking forward to it," Owens said. "He's a lot healthier than he was last week. He's throwing the ball better. He's taking snaps. Obviously he's feeling better. We need to win, so we have to make sure these practices count."
In many ways, how Owens and Romo go, the Cowboys go, even if Romo disagrees.
Source: Dallas Morning News Read more...Street may not be in Colorado long, either
MLB.com noted, it's reasonable to assume that the 75 percent of polled Colorado fans who didn't think the Rockies got enough in return for Matt Holliday may have jumped the gun just a tad. Reports indicate that Colorado Rockies GM Dan O'Dowd might just package Huston Street in a follow-up deal. There are plenty of teams in the market for a closer — foremost among them the St. Louis Cardinals, the New York Mets and the Cleveland Indians — all teams which had called him about Brian Fuentes prior to the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline. Or, Monday's conditional deal may have been the first step in a transition for the 2007 NL champs, as they move to a greater emphasis on pitching. Coors Field may seem an unlikely place for that, but Clint Hurdle's club ended the 2008 season with a solid top-of-the-rotation (Ubaldo Jimenez and Aaron Cook combined for 28 wins and a sub-4.00 ERA). Greg Smith adds another 200-inning arm, and the Rockies expect to add more frontline pitching in an eventual trade of third baseman Garrett Atkins. The Angels, Phillies, Indians and Dodgers are all eager for a third baseman. Or Street could be a keeper, in a bullpen needing to replace Fuentes' 30 saves.
Source: MLB.com Read more...
Bears Re-Sign Harris
Tommie Harris says the talks that led to his four-year, $40 million contract with the Chicago Bears were businesslike and “classy.” Speaking at a morning news conference at Halas Hall, the defensive tackle said he and Bears management kept negotiations private in reaching a deal that will keep him with Chicago through 2012. That differs from what has happened between the team and linebackers Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs. They’ve both gone public with complaints and either hinted or threatened holdouts. “We didn’t try to go out there and talk about one another or dispute different things, and I feel like we did it all in-house,” Harris said. “I would never go out and talk about the Bears in front of the media or disrespect my team,” added Harris, whose deal was the richest ever for the Bears in terms of dollars per year.
Harris started 56 of his 60 career NFL games and recorded 208 tackles during his four seasons with the Bears. The three-time Pro Bowler had 13 total sacks over the last two seasons—ranking him second among defensive tackles.
Walker Robbed, Beaten
Oakland Raiders wide receiver Javon Walker could be released from the hospital Tuesday, a day after he was beaten, robbed and left unconscious on a Las Vegas street after a night of partying, police said. A large amount of cash and some jewelry were taken from Walker, who suffered “significant injuries,” police said. Police Lt. Clinton Nichols said detectives are retracing Walker’s activities in the hours before he was found injured Monday morning on a street off the Las Vegas Strip. “That’s one of the first things we do, backtrack what he did and where he stayed,” Nichols said, adding that the investigation was still in the early stages. “We knew there was a large amount of cash taken, and some jewelry.” Nichols said he believed Walker would be released after a 24-hour stay at the hospital. A hospital spokesman said he had no immediate information about Walker’s condition. A Raiders spokesman said the team was in the process of gathering information and had no further comment. On Monday, police Officer Bill Cassell said in a statement that Walker was taken to a hospital with “significant injuries” and was in fair condition at Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center. Walker, 29, signed a six-year, $55 million deal with the Raiders after being released by the Denver Broncos in February.
Giant Mix Up?
Star wide receiver Plaxico Burress is refusing to practice because the New York Giants haven't renegotiated a new contract since winning the Super Bowl. Burress reported to Giants Stadium for the mandatory minicamp Wednesday. But he says he told the coaching staff he won't work out without a new deal. Burress, who battled through an injury-hampered season last year, caught the game-winning touchdown in the Giants' stunning 17-14 victory over the undefeated New England Patriots in the Super Bowl. Meanwhile, tight end Jeremy Shockey showed up for minicamp Wednesday, despite hints he had made last weekend with the New York media that he might skip it. Shockey, who isn't expected to participate in drills, headed for treatment with Giants trainers for the broken leg he suffered last season. ESPN
Benson Released
The Chicago Bears waived running back Cedric Benson today. Benson played in 35 regular season games for the Bears over the past three seasons with 12 starts. He was originally acquired in the first round of the 2005 draft. “Cedric displayed a pattern of behavior we will not tolerate,” General Manager Jerry Angelo said. “As I said this past weekend, you have to protect your job. Everyone in this organization is held accountable for their actions. When individual priorities overshadow team goals, we suffer the consequences as a team. Those who fail to understand the importance of ‘team’ will not play for the Chicago Bears.” Where he might land is questionable... character is playing a much larger role for teams today. But Benson does have to go through Roger Goodell first. More to come...
Strahan To Retire
Michael Strahan has decided to go out on top. It's been reported that Strahan has decided to retire after 15 seasons in the NFL, with a total of 141.5 sacks, and an NFL record 22.5 sacks in 2001. Strahan will be eligible for the hall of fame in five years, and looks like he'll make it in. Last season, Strahan helped the Giants achieve a superbowl season with nine sacks, and playing in all 16 games. The major networks have already started to talk to Strahan about broadcasting, which is a likely landing spot for him. Though he could have waited until the start of camp, Strahan decided this was the time to make his decision public. Though many of the Giants' players expected Strahan to retire, they will have to start adjusting to a locker room without him starting this week at their minicamp, which starts Wednesday.
Two Already Troubled Players Get More Trouble
Cedric Benson’s rocky relationship with the Chicago Bears got murkier Saturday after the running back’s arrest on a drunken driving charge in Austin, Texas, his second arrest in little more than a month. Authorities said Benson was arrested early Saturday after he failed a field sobriety test. The former first-round draft pick was charged with driving while intoxicated and released on bond. The arrest comes a month after Benson was charged with boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest. He has said neither charge is true, and those cases are pending.
Former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Odell Thurman has been suspended indefinitely by the NFL for violating its substance-abuse policy and will miss the 2008 season. Under terms of the suspension, the free agent will not be considered for reinstatement until after the season, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said Saturday. It’s the third consecutive season Thurman will miss. Thurman was suspended by commissioner Roger Goodell the last two seasons after he skipped a drug test, was arrested for drunken driving and failed to meet the league’s expectations for reinstatement. He was allowed to resume working out at Paul Brown Stadium in January and was fully reinstated April 21. The Bengals released him last month.
McFadden Signs $60M Deal
Darren McFadden, who the Raiders drafted with their first round pick has signed a six-year rookie contract worth up to $60 million with about $26 million guaranteed. McFadden ran for 4,590 yards and 41 touchdowns in three seasons with the Razorbacks, averaging 5.8 yards per carry. Though the Raiders were loaded with running backs, they decided McFadden’s talents were too big to pass up with the fourth overall pick.
Ogden Ready To Retire
Accourding to sources, long time Ravens lineman Jonathan Ogden will announce his retirement in the next week or so. Odgen has had a nagging toe injury that still doesn't feel 100%, and has played in the league for 12 years, which also contributes to his retirement. Look for the Ravens to pick up a few offensive lineman, as they try to fill the hole he's left.
T.O. Gets A New Deal
Terrell Owens has been on his best behavior for quite awhile. The Dallas Cowboys are doing their best to keep it that way. Both sides agreed Monday to a three-year contract extension worth around $27 million, according to a person close to the negotiations who asked to remain anonymous because it hasn’t been announced. The key to the deal may not be the length or even the money, which is close to what Randy Moss received. The best part: Owens will not be playing out the final year of his contract, eliminating a potentially explosive topic from a team that needs its attention on ending an 11-season drought without a playoff win. Word of Owens’ deal came a few hours after the Cowboys got other good news: NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is allowing suspended cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones to join the club all the way up to the regular season and will decide by Sept. 1 if Jones can be fully reinstated.
Broncos Release Henry
The Denver Broncos released running back Travis Henry on Monday, saying his commitment to the team was in question. The Broncos signed Henry to a five-year, $22.5 million contract in March 2007. He was hampered by injuries in his only season in Denver, rushing for 691 yards on 167 carries with four touchdowns. Henry injured a hamstring while running 100-yard sprints late last month. The NFL told him in September he had failed a test for marijuana and would be suspended for a year, but he challenged the test and the punishment and won. Where might he go?: The Bears are an obvious choice for this. Cedric Benson has been a bust so far, and with only Adrian Peterson (not the good one) as a backup, Henry might be a good fit.
Taylor Calls For Press Conference Today
Miami Dolphins defensive end Jason Taylor has scheduled a news conference for 11:30 a.m. ET Sunday, the Miami Herald is reporting. Taylor is expected to to tell the media what his agent has been saying all along -- that he would like to be traded by the Dolphins to a contender. The Dolphins, who are upset that Taylor spent the offseason on the TV show "Dancing With the Stars" rather than in South Florida working out with teammates, weren't planning to have Taylor on hand when they hold a mandatory minicamp June 6-8. "I'm under contract with the Dolphins," Taylor told The Associated Press Wednesday after playing in a pro-am for the Principal Charity Classic, a Champions Tour event in Iowa. "...Football doesn't start until July and training camp, so I'll be all right. I've been in L.A. and so far removed from it. Like I said, I'll deal with that when I get there." Taylor returned home to South Florida to host his own charity golf tournament Sunday and Monday. He had been in California fielding acting offers after finishing the reality show. Miami coach Tony Sparano said last week that Taylor isn't expected to take part in any team activities through training camp. Update: Taylor gave the conference to say that he has NOT demanded a trade from the Dolphins, and he says that he will play at least one more year. He did not rule out the possibility of a pre-season trade.
Some Quick News and Rumors
- The Eagles are rumored to be testing out cornerback Lito Sheppard at wide receiver. This means that they've pretty much given up on trading him, and just want to find a spot for him.
-The Packers are removing Brett Favre's locker from the lockerroom and are giving it to him as a present. The locker caused a large media stir lately, because people thought it might mean that he wasn't really retired.
-Junior Seau is not going to make a decision on his future until early July. Though it is believed that he will retire, as the Patriots have added some depth at the linebacker position this offseason.
-Brian Urlacher showed up at the Bears' OTA's, the reason being that the Bears could have tried to get about $3.7-$5.7 million in signing bonuses. Don't expect this to mean that Urlacher is happy with his contract situation, the two parties are supposedly far apart in contract talks.
-After a report last week that quoted Vince Young saying he was going to retire after his rookie season because of the pressure, he now is denying that he was going to quit: "I ain't never said I was going to quit football," Young added. "There was a lot of stuff going on in my life, but football is not hard to me. Football is easy. All you have to do is be coachable and use your God-given talent. If it was a thought at all it was just a passing thought for a second."
-Packers' defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamilla had his knee scoped as a precaution after injuring it in the beginning of the offseason. He is expected to be back before the preseason begins.
-The Chiefs are planning to use less of Larry Johnson this season, although both Johnson and Coach Herm Edwards have declared him healthy and ready to go. The Chiefs are still unsure about who there starting quarterback will be, either Brodie Croyle or Damon Huard.
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Bucs Re-sign Stevens, Release Gradkowski
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers re-signed tight end Jerramy Stevens and released backup quarterback Bruce Gradkowski on Friday. Stevens, who signed with the Bucs in April 2007 after spending his first five NFL seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, had 18 receptions for 189 yards and four touchdowns in 15 games last season. Gradkowski was a sixth-round draft choice in 2006 out of Toledo. He started 11 games as a rookie after Chris Simms was lost to a season-ending spleen injury, throwing for 1,661 yards, nine TDs and nine interceptions. As the No. 3 quarterback in 2007, he appeared in four games and was 13-of-24 for 130 yards, no touchdowns and one interception. The move leaves five quarterbacks on the roster—Jeff Garcia, Brian Griese, Luke McCown, Simms and rookie Josh Johnson. A sixth, Jake Plummer, is under contract but has said he is retired.
Broncos Sign Pittman
The Broncos agreed to a one-year deal on Tuesday with former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Pittman, agent Drew Rosenhaus told The Associated Press. “There’s a lot of ways Michael can help the Broncos,” Rosenhaus said. “He can play fullback, halfback, he can catch the ball out of the backfield, return punts and return kicks. He’s a versatile back.” Pittman, an 11th-year pro who spent his past six seasons in Tampa after four years in Arizona, rushed for 286 yards on 68 carries and caught 26 passes for 191 yards last season, when he missed six games with a high ankle sprain.
CentSports
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Read more...Falcons Sign Rookie QB Ryan
Matt Ryan signed a $72 million, six-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons on Tuesday, ending concerns that prolonged negotiations could threaten his chance to become the starting quarterback as a rookie. Ryan, the No. 3 overall pick in last month’s draft out of Boston College, is guaranteed $34.75 million. His guaranteed money is $4.75 million more than that given to Jake Long, the No. 1 overall choice who also is represented by agent Tom Condon.
Read more...Cowboys Ink Barber, Newman to Big Deals
The Dallas Cowboys signed running back Marion Barber and cornerback Terence Newman to long-term extensions Tuesday, just in time to beat a deadline that would’ve changed how the money is spread over the salary cap. It wasn’t cheap, though, costing Jerry Jones roughly $95 million. At least he knows he’ll have both players through 2014. Newman’s deal is a six-year extension to the final year left on his initial contract. It’s worth more than $50 million, with a $12 million signing bonus and $22.5 million guaranteed over the first three years. Barber, a restricted free agent, received a $45 million, seven-year contract that includes $16 million in guaranteed bonuses. It’s worth $21 million over the first three years, all of which puts him in the salary range of LaDainian Tomlinson, Edgerrin James and Larry Johnson—heady stuff for a guy whose only career start came in his last game. (sorry I didnt link the main teams/players)
Bengals Release Thurman
Less than a month after the NFL reinstated Odell Thurman from his two-year suspension, the troubled linebacker is out of a job. The Cincinnati Bengals staunchly supported Thurman during his suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse and conduct policies. When he didn’t show up for voluntary workouts that represented a chance to catch up, they decided they’ve had enough. Thurman was waived on Monday, leaving his once-promising career at the crossroads again. “Everything was fine two weeks ago,” agent Safarrah Lawson said in a phone interview shortly after Thurman was released. “He left for a week to deal with the death of his grandmother, and he didn’t make it back.”
Jags Extend Meirer
The Jacksonville Jaguars gave defensive tackle Rob Meier a bigger contract to go along with his bigger role. Meier, who is replacing three-time Pro Bowl player Marcus Stroud in the starting lineup this season, signed a four-year contract extension Thursday. Although financial details weren’t disclosed, Meier said the new deal will pay more than the $2.095 million he was due in the final year of his previous contract. Meier’s deal also came two days after defensive end Paul Spicer failed to show up for the team’s first voluntary workout of the offseason while seeking a new contract.
Bears Re-Sign Gould
The Chicago Bears have signed kicker Robbie Gould to a five-year contract extension through 2013. Financial terms weren't immediately available. Gould was working for a construction company just three years ago when he was invited for a tryout by the Bears and he has since gone on to become the most accurate field goal kicker in the franchise's history. No Bears field goal kicker, who had made more than 50 attempts, has a better record than Gould on 84 from 99 tries in three seasons. He's made 99 of 100 points-after-touchdown with the Bears and hit 31 of 36 field goal attempts last season. Gould made the Pro Bowl after the 2006 season when he scored 143 points.
Happy Mothers Day
Have a happy mothers day everyone. Help mothers around the world by donating to the breast cancer research fund. Any amount is accepted! Click the picture for the link!
Packers Cut Robinson
The Green Bay Packers released Koren Robinson on Friday, the latest setback for the veteran wide receiver trying to resurrect his career after serving an NFL suspension and jail time. Not long after Green Bay signed the 6-foot-2, 205-pound Robinson in 2006, the league suspended him for a year for alcohol-related problems. The Packers gave him an opportunity, and he responded with 21 catches for 241 yards and one touchdown in nine games last season. He was also second on the team with 25 kickoff returns for 596 yards. This release was expected after the Packers drafted receiver Jordy Nelson with their first pick (2nd round) in the draft.
Walsh Hands Over Videos To Patriots
Instead of explaining the entire Walsh/Patriot/Spygate thing, I've decided to post a clip from sportscenter and let them explain it to you. Enjoy...
Rhodes To Return To Indy
The Colts have put their tag-team runners—Joseph Addai and Dominic Rhodes—back together. The tandem that helped Indianapolis win its first Super Bowl title has been reunited after Rhodes agreed on a one-year deal to return to the Colts. Rhodes’ agent, Mike McCartney confirmed the signing Wednesday in an e-mail to The Associated Press although he did not disclose financial details. Rhodes spent his first six NFL seasons with the Colts, rushing for 2,274 yards. Rhodes set the league record for an undrafted rookie with 1,104 yards rushing in 2001. He also was the starter for all 16 regular-season games in 2006 before losing the job to Addai in the playoffs. Then, last spring, Rhodes became a free agent and signed a two-year deal with Oakland. He was hoping for a chance to start, but after serving a four-game suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, his opportunities dwindled. He finished with 75 carries, 302 yards and one TD. Shortly after the NFL draft, the Raiders released him.
Alexander Making A Big Push To Bengals
According to a source, Shaun Alexander is expected to sign with the Cincinnati Bengals sometime this week. Alexander has always had interest in signing with his hometown team, and he will work in the runningback duo with Rudi Johnson. Alexander has been trying to convince the Bengals that having a runningback will give Johnson (29), and Alexander (31) a lighter load which will make them play like they're in their prime again...More to come
Benson Arrested...What's Next?
Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson was charged with failing a sobriety test while operating a 30-foot boat, then resisting arrest before being hit with pepper spray and dragged ashore by officers. Benson faces charges of boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest after the incident Saturday night on Lake Travis, Travis County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Roger Wade said Sunday. Benson was released from jail early Sunday on a $14,500 bond. The charges are class B misdemeanors, each punishable by up to six months in jail and a $2,000 fine. A call to Benson’s agent was not immediately returned. Benson was operating the boat with 15 passengers aboard when he was stopped by a Lower Colorado River Authority officer for a random safety inspection. He failed a field sobriety test on the officer’s boat and was uncooperative when the officer tried to take him ashore, the authority said. “When Benson did not pass the test, he presented himself as a threat to the officer and argued about whether or not he would be taken to land to have a follow-up field sobriety test performed on land and refused to put on a life jacket,” the authority said in a statement. The officer had to use pepper spray to subdue Benson. He then refused to leave the officer’s boat and authorities had to drag him to a car to be taken to the Travis County jail, the authority said. What should the Bears do? Release him, it's the perfect opportunity to release Benson without saying to the fans "Hey this guy is a bust, and it's our fault." But, knowing the Bears, they'll give him another chance, and they'll let Commissioner Goodell hand out the punishment.
Possible Trades
Though there have been a bunch of trades this offseason, most recently the Pacman Jones trade, there are still a few key players that have yet to be traded and most likely will be traded before the season begins...
1) Chad Johnson- An obvious choice, Johnson has publicly demanded a trade, and the Bengals have yet to give in to his demand. The apparently declined a draft day trade from the Redskins that included two first round picks.
2) Lito Sheppard- Sheppard is being shopped around by the Eagles, so don't expect to see him in the Eagles uniform this season. Sheppard was another player that looked like he was going to get traded on draft day, but the Eagles failed to get one worked out.
3) J.P. Losman- Losman was in a quarterback battle with Trent Edwards last season, and head coach Dick Jauron has shown support for Edwards. Look for Losman to go to a team like the Bears, Dolphins, or Packers that need a quality veteran backup.
4) Jason Taylor- This is a trade that might not happen, but it looked like everyone expected him to be traded for another first round pick on draft day. Taylor has made some remarks recently about the way Bill Parcells has been dealing with the situation, and Taylor could be traded this season.
5) Jeremy Shockey- As of right now, I don't think the Giants are planning to keep Shockey on the team. On draft day, the Giants supposedly had a deal worked out to send him to the Saints, but there was apparently a money issue. Trading Shockey should relieve some pressure on the Giant's salary camp, and also Eli Manning.
Read more...
Jags Look To Add Sheppard
According to a source, the Jacksonville Jaguars are beginning to talk to the Eagles about a possible trade for CB Lito Sheppard. The Jags, who are trying to make their defense as Peyton Manning-proof as possible, were interested in Sheppard before the draft. But their first-round trade-up with Baltimore to get defensive end Derrick Harvey cost them two third-round picks and a fourth-round selection, leaving them with just two picks in the first four rounds. Because of that, they weren't willing to part with their second-round pick, which they spent on another defensive end, Auburn's Quentin Groves, in a deal for Sheppard. If the Jags do manage to get this trade done before the season begins, they could be a favorite to win the AFC title this year.
Bills To Play In Toronto
The Buffalo Bills will receive $78 million—more than double their calculated 2006 operating income—to play eight games in Toronto over the next five years. The payment to the Bills was disclosed for the first time in Rogers Communications’ 2008 first-quarter report released Tuesday. The Toronto-based company is part of a consortium that negotiated a deal with the Bills to have them play five regular-season and three preseason games, starting this year, at the downtown Rogers Centre. In becoming the NFL’s first team to play annual games outside the United States, the Bills are scheduled to host Pittsburgh in a preseason match at Toronto on Aug. 14, followed by a regular-season game against Miami on Dec. 7.
Draft Is Over...What's Next?
Well now that the draft is over we can finally start discussing/previewing each team. We'll finish off April with team draft grades by division, and starting in May we'll discuss the futures of these teams....so here's what you can look forward to this summer...
- Off-Season review
- Team-By-Team grades
- Player Predictions
- Team Predictions
- Award Predictions
- Pre-season coverage
- Contests, and more!
Ravens Trade For Washington, Release Rhodes
The Baltimore Ravens addressed their need at cornerback Sunday, but it didn't come in the draft. Instead, the Ravens traded a fourth-round pick to the Oakland Raiders for Fabian Washington. A first-round pick in 2005, Washington was expendable after the Raiders had traded for DeAngelo Hall. In three seasons with Oakland, Washington had 112 tackles and five interceptions. He was a starter his first two seasons before losing his job early last year. Even if Washington is unable to crack the Ravens' starting lineup, he will be a valuable nickel back, especially because so many AFC North teams use three receivers. "Guys know about our defense," general manager Ozzie Newsome said. "Their play gets elevated when they come to Baltimore. They realize they have to take their play to another level." Also, the Raiders released RB Dominic Rhodes today, after he was suspended half of last season for breaking the league's substance-abuse policy. The Raiders now have Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden as their runningbacks.
Packers Will Look To Sign Culpepper Before Draft
Daunte Culpepper, one of the Green Bay Packers' chief rivals from his days with the Minnesota Vikings, could be a Packer very soon...The 31-year-old veteran quarterback visited the Packers Wednesday, and the two sides could strike a deal before this weekend's draft. Culpepper arrived in Green Bay on Tuesday evening and spent most of today at the team's facility. "We had him in for a visit, and it was a good visit," General Manager Ted Thompson said late this afternoon. "We wanted to kind of introduce ourselves to him and he to us, so it went fine." Source: Green Bay Press Gazette
Read more...
KW's Sites
If any of you are big college football fans, or just big football fans in general, you might like these two sites created by a sports blogger named KW. KW is just starting up two brand new sites called KW's College Football Rumors, and UNFL101. The college football blog looks very similar to mine, and will be updated 24/7 by KW, with a little help from me. The UNFL blog is a very unique, and creative blog about the new "minor" league being created called the United National Football League. It's the only blog on the web right now about the site, so if you want to find out about it go to it! As a special guest blogger, KW made his mock draft for the site...it's a little rushed, but it's still good. Click here for the mock draft
-Bam
Links:
KW's College Football Rumors
UNFL 101
Breaking News: Pacman Jones Traded
The Dallas Cowboys and Tennessee Titans have agreed in principle on a trade for suspended cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones, sources told ESPN on Wednesday. Dallas will send its fourth-round pick in Saturday's draft to the Titans for Jones. There are also conditions attached to the trade related to Jones being reinstated by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and how much he plays for the Cowboys. If he plays a significant amount of time in 2008, the Titans will get an additional pick from the Cowboys in 2009. If he doesn't get reinstated by the NFL, the Titans will send an undisclosed 2009 draft pick back to the Cowboys. Also, Pacman has reached a financial settlement with the Titans regarding his contract situation. ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports that Jones must pay $500,000 to a charity chosen by the Titans sometime in the next two years. He will receive a new contract from the Cowboys.
Chiefs Trade Allen To Vikings
All-Pro defensive end Jared Allen was traded from Kansas City to Minnesota in a blockbuster deal, making the Chiefs one of the major players in this weekend’s NFL draft and the Vikings a serious contender in the NFC. Kansas City gets Minnesota’s first-round pick, No. 17 overall, and both of the Vikings’ third-round selections. The teams also swapped sixth-rounders in the deal announced Wednesday. Allen, who had an NFL-best 15 1/2 sacks last season despite being suspended the first two games, agreed to terms on a six-year deal that includes $31 million in guaranteed money. It could be worth more than $74 million if he reaches certain incentives, according to a person familiar with the deal. The contract will make Allen the highest paid defensive player in the league.
New Contest!
This contest is for the NFL Draft! Here's what you need to do..
-Write down what you believe the top 10 picks will be in the draft (in order)
-You can either post it as a comment, or email it to me at bam@nflrumorz.com
-Make sure you include your name, and email address!
-The Grand Prize is a customized authentic jersey of your choice!
-The second two winners will win a brand new playstation2 Oakland Raiders controller
-The next three winners will receive a free bar of the new Degree Men's deoderant
*This contest is sponsored by Degree and "Rookie Day 3 Extraction" (see side ad).
*Ties will be decided by a coin flip
Good luck!
Breaking News: Shaun Alexander Released
Running back Shaun Alexander was released by the Seattle Seahawks Tuesday. The move comes just 26 months after the 2005 league MVP signed a $62 million contract. Shaun Alexander has lost a step the past two seasons. The running back's numbers are down considerably from his MVP season in 2005. Before his release, Alexander had to take a procedural physical in order to facilitate the termination of his contract. He took that physical Tuesday afternoon. He's recovering from wrist surgery and has been waiting for his left wrist to heal before he can start visiting teams that might be interested in signing him. The Seahawks were waiting for Alexander's broken left wrist to heal before releasing him. He played the final 15 games of the regular season plus January's playoffs wearing a cast on that. Tuesday morning doctors declared the 19th overall draft choice in 2000 fully healthy to participate in minicamps this spring. Alexander leaves Seattle on good terms after being the team's all-time leading rusher. Two years of injuries plus the fact he's 30 years old led to Alexander's exit. General manager Tim Ruskell, a big supporter of Alexander, signed Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett to replace him. The only holdup in Alexander's release was his wrist, which plagued him most of the 2007 season.
Dolphins Agree To Terms To Draft Jake Long #1
The Miami Dolphins will select Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long with the first pick in the upcoming NFL draft, according to multiple reports. The Dolphins will announce Tuesday afternoon that they have agreed to terms with Long on a contract. The NFL Network reported that Long received a five-year deal worth $57.5 million, including $30 million in guaranteed money. The Dolphins have not commented on the report but have confirmed the news conference, which is scheduled for 1:45 pm EDT. The 6-7, 313-pound Long started his final 26 games for the Wolverines at left tackle and earned all-American honors in his junior and senior seasons. The Dolphins are coming off 1-15 season and need to significantly upgrade their offensive line.
NFL Re-Instates Thurman
Linebacker Odell Thurman was reinstated from an NFL suspension after sitting out the last two seasons. The Cincinnati Bengals said Monday they were informed by commissioner Roger Goodell that Thurman is eligible to play. He was suspended the last two seasons because of violations of the NFL’s substance abuse policy. He had been cleared in January by the NFL to resume working out with the Bengals pending word on his status. A second-round draft pick from Georgia in 2005, Thurman started 15 games at middle linebacker, led the team in tackles and tied the team rookie record with five interceptions. He was suspended for the first four games of the 2006 season after missing a drug test, and the suspension was extended to the full season after he was arrested for drunken driving. He pleaded no contest and was sentenced to six days in a treatment center.
Cowboys To Draft McFadden?
The Dallas Cowboys own the 22d and 28th selections in the first round, and some have speculated they might be willing to part with both if Arkansas running back Darren McFadden slips down the draft board (perhaps to the Jets at 6, or the Patriots at 7) according to the Boston Globe. After exchanging contract proposals with starting running back Marion Barber last week, the Cowboys might be more inclined to make such a move. According to published reports in Dallas, the Cowboys are offering a five-year deal with a total value of $30 million, while Barber is seeking a deal worth $40 million. Barber becomes a free agent after the season. Source: Boston Globe
Read more...Vikings To Los Angeles?
One report that caught my eye today is the possibility of the Minnesota Vikings moving to Los Angeles. The Vikings' lease with the metrodome ends in 2011, which means that the Vikings would be free to move to any city they want. L.A. has been looking for a team, and will make a big push to try to lure the Vikings over. Check the right sidebar for the newest poll question: "What city would you like to see get an NFL franchise?"
Read more...Chiefs Shopping Allen?
People around the league say the Kansas City Chiefs are shopping defensive end Jared Allen, the league's sack leader last season according to the Washington Post. The Chiefs placed their franchise player tag on Allen in February but that doesn't mean they can't trade him. The Minnesota Vikings and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are said to be in pursuit. Source: Washington Post
Steve McNair Retires
Steve McNair intended to complete the final three years of his contract with the Baltimore Ravens. He worked hard during the offseason and arrived at minicamp ready to assume his role as the starting quarterback. His body had other plans. McNair announced his retirement Thursday, ending a 13-year career in which he was selected co-MVP, led the Tennessee Titans to the Super Bowl and orchestrated the most successful regular season in the Ravens history. He received a standing ovation from his teammates after revealing his decision, then contained his emotions during a hastily arranged news conference. “Coming out and making this decision, it was hard,” he said. “In your mind, you feel like you can play, that you can still compete. But when your mind and your body are not in accord, it’s not going to work in the National Football League. “My mind was there. Mentally, I could go out and play. But physically, I couldn’t do it anymore. Not to the capacity that I need to help my teammates win a football game.” The 35-year-old McNair guided the Ravens to a franchise-best 13-3 record in 2006, his first season in Baltimore. But he injured his groin during the season opener last season and never regained the form that enabled him to earn a berth in four Pro Bowls. McNair developed back and shoulder injuries and played in only six games in 2007. He threw only two touchdown passes, was intercepted four times and lost seven fumbles before being placed on injured reserve in December, ending his most frustrating season in the NFL. Source: Associated Press
Chad Johnson Demands Trade
According to ESPN, Chad Johnson has reportedly demanded the Cincinnati Bengals to trade him before the NFL draft. Johnson wants to know what team he's going to play for soon, and he is finally done waiting for the Bengals to offer him what he believes to be a 'fair' contract. There are a bunch teams that might be interested/have displayed interest in Johnson...they are
-Chicago Bears
-Buffalo Bills
-Dallas Cowboys
-San Francisco 49ers
-Jacksonville Jaguars
-Miami Dolphins
-Philidelphia Eagles
My guess is that the Jaguars will make a big push for Johnson, the Jaguars would be a deadly team with the Garrard-Johnson combo, and they are a playoff calibar team.
Read more...
Full Team-By-Team Schedules Released
Well today was the big day, the team-by-team game schedules were released. Click Here for the full schedule, Click Here for the strength of schedule ranks, or Click here for your particular team's schedule.
Read more...Broncos Intested In Jackson, Parker?
The Denver Broncos are close to signing former Kansas City Chiefs receiver Samie Parker and are deep in discussions with Darrell Jackson, the former No. 1 pass-catching threat for the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers, according to multiple NFL sources. Parker, 27, was the Chiefs' No. 2 receiver in 2005-06, averaging 38.5 catches and 547 yards. He and the Broncos could finalize an agreement soon according to the Denver Post. Few receivers have a more impressive resume than Jackson, who was released by San Francisco after last season largely to avoid paying $4 million in salary and bonus. He has averaged 61 receptions in his eight NFL seasons and has three seasons of at least 1,000 yards. He caught 10 TD passes in 2006. Source: Denver Post
The Giants Should Trade Shockey
Jeremy Shockey should be traded from the Giants, it's as simple as that...here's a few reasons why...
1) The Giants won the superbowl without him- The Giants played better without him, and made their playoff push with Shockey on injured reserve.
2) Shockey makes it more difficult for Eli Manning- Shockey is constantly making a scene by saying that he doesn't get the ball enough, it's funny that as soon as he went down Manning started playing much, much better.
3) Shockey is an injury liability- Shockey takes up a large portion of the Giants' salary cap, he also is a major injury liability, coming off of a leg injury that ended his season early, the Giants might want to trade him to make some cap room.
4) Shockey could fetch some quality draft picks if traded now- If traded soon, Shockey could get the Giants a high draft pick. He is one of the best tight ends while healthy, and there would definetly be a team that would be willing to trade a pick or two for him.
5) There are teams that have expressed interest in Shockey- Here's a list of possible teams that Shockey could go to...
-New Orleans Saints
-New England Patriots
-Oakland Raiders
-Buffalo Bills
-Green Bay Packers
Jets Close To Sending Robertson To Broncos
According to yahoo sports, the New York Jets are extremely close to sending defensive lineman Dewayne Robertson to the Denver Broncos could be finalized on draft weekend. The Jets would sent Robertson to Denver for a second-day selection in the upcoming draft. The Jets want to move Robertson to free up some cash to sign draft choices. According to the report, Robertson and the Broncos already have a new contract in place for just such an occasion.
Bryant Gumbel Leaves NFL Network
I know this isn't news or a rumor about the NFL, this is pretty exciting news for those of you who, like me, absolutely hate Bryant Gumbel. Gumbel has decided to leave his job as the play-by-play announcer for the NFL network after only two seasons. Personally, I just can't stand Gumbel, and am happy to see him go. The NFL network is still searching for a replacement announcer to work along side with Chris Collinsworth. For all of you Gumbel fans, you can send all of your hate mail to bam@nflrumorz.com
Jets Extend Rhodes' Contract
The Jets and safety Kerry Rhodes agreed to a contract extension Wednesday that will keep one of the playmakers in their secondary for five more years. According to various media reports, citing anonymous sources, the extension is for $33.5 million, including $20 million guaranteed—making Rhodes one of the NFL’s highest-paid safeties. The Jets confirmed the signing on Thursday. Rhodes, entering his fourth season, had a year left on his rookie contract and would have become an unrestricted free agent after this season. He has 270 tackles, eight sacks and 10 interceptions in three seasons and has been a starter since being drafted in the fourth round out of Louisville in 2005.
Dolphins To Draft OT Long?
The Miami Dolphins began preliminary talks Tuesday with a representative of Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long on a contract to be the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft, according to two sources close to the discussions. However, Miami’s early move could be used as leverage to put pressure on Long or one of the other top prospects to get a deal done before the draft. What do you think the Dolphins are going to do? email me at bam@nflrumorz.com and i'll post your comments.
Read more...NFL Rumors- Site Update
For those of you who visit the site day after day, you have probably noticed that comments are no longer available, and the team-by-team needs have stopped. There have been a few problems due to a virus one commentor posted, and the consistant spamming of a few posts. So until the problem is fixed by google/blogger, the comments will stay hidden. I expect them to be back up in about two days. The team-by-team needs will resume tomorrow, and the schedule will change accordingly. I have already put up a verification box for all comments, which I know could be really annoying but it should help stop the spamming. The site will hopefully be back to normal by next week.
Thanks for your patience, and emails,
~Bam
Favre Would Consider A Comeback?
If the Green Bay Packers are ravaged by injuries this season, Brett Favre might consider returning should the team reach out to him. “It would be hard to pass up, I guess,” he told the Biloxi (Miss.) Sun Herald. “But three months from now, say that presents itself, I may say, you know what, I’m so glad I made that decision. I’m feel very comfortable in what I’m doing and my decision. “Yeah, I can probably be up there doing that and playing, but again, I don’t know. It’s only speculating. I think the world of that team. I had a lot of fun, not only this year, but over my career.” But if Aaron Rodgers went down with an injury? “Aaron has fallen into a great situation,” Favre said. “And if that opportunity presented itself and they did call, it would be tempting. And I very well could be enticed do it.” Favre understands the kind of challenge he would face should he opt to go back to the NFL after ending his record-setting 17-year career. And he made it clear he is not changing his mind at this time. “But to think that if they called me in October and told me, ‘Hey, we need you this week.’ That would be hard,” Favre said in a story that appeared on the paper’s Web site on Tuesday. “I’m sure mentally, I would be refreshed. I’d be away from it for a long time. But mentally versus physically, the last thing I’d want to do is go up and it’s ‘Oh this is great’ and all that stuff and me be excited and then just flop. “You just can’t show up and play.”
Garrard Gets Contract Extension
Quarterback David Garrard has signed a contract extension with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Terms of Monday’s deal were not released. But Garrard and his agent, Albert Irby, had been looking for something similar to the six-year, $67.5 million contract Dallas quarterback Tony Romo signed last season. The 30-year-old Garrard is coming off his best season. He completed 64 percent of his passes for 2,509 yards and 18 touchdowns despite missing three games because of an ankle injury. He threw just three interceptions and finished with the NFL’s third-highest passer rating (102.2). A longtime backup who beat out Byron Leftwich last preseason, Garrard was entering the final year of a four-year deal that paid about $2 million annually.
Team Need: Baltimore Ravens
There's a new staff in Baltimore, and this team is going to be looking for a lot of youth. This Baltimore team has a lot of age right now, with key positions in question. The Ravens will need to work hard on improving their offense, while adding depth at defense. Here's what they need...
QB- It's either Kyle Boller or Troy Smith right now, and I don't think the new staff is set on either of them. Smith did show some good skills though at the end of the season. The Ravens will most likely draft another quarterback to add to the mix.
CB- Here's where the age is going to hurt the Ravens the most. Chris McAllister is 31, and Samari Rolle is 32. The Ravens will need to draft a young cornerback or two to back these guys up, just-in-case.
LB- For the first time ever, Ray Lewis is on the final year of his contract without a new deal being done. Is this a sign of his departure? Well the Ravens can't take that chance and they need to draft a linebacker to groom to be his successor.
OT- Jonathan Ogden is most likely retiring, and has told the team to prepare as if he is retiring. The Ravens now need to draft another young tackle to replace the pro-bowler.
WR- A new target would help whoever the quarterback is this year.
There are a few more positions that people could make a case for (DE, OG, C, OLB), those would all be for depth though. This Ravens team isn't bad, and could easily rebound from a poor 2008 season. Lets see if the new staff could get it done.
Read more...
Team Needs: New England Patriots
The Patriots lost their first round pick because of the spygate scandal...luckily for them they traded the 49ers for their first round pick! This team is going to be coming off of a perfect regular season, and a superbowl loss. Randy Moss and Wes Welker are back, and so is Tom Brady so the Pats should be good to go on offense. There were a few major losses though, most notably CB Asante Samuel, CB Randall Gay, and WR Donte Stallworth. So here are the Patriots needs...
CB- With Asante Samuel and Randall Gay gone, the Patriots only have Ellis Hobbs who did not have a good 3rd season, and newly signed free agents Fernando Bryant, Lewis Sanders, and Jason Webster. Cornerbacks are in high demand this draft, so the Patriots will have to invest in one early.
LB- Teddy Bruschi and Junior Seau are only getting older. The Pats will most likely spend a few picks on linebackers that they can learn under some of the best in the business.
Really the Patriots don't NEED anything else. The rest of the draft would just be for depth and the future.
Team Needs: New York Jets
The Jets were busy this offseason signing RB Jesse Chatman, G Alan Fancea, TE Bubba Franks, S Artrell Hawkins, DE Kris Jenkins, OLB Calvin Pace, FB Tony Richardson, T/G Damien Woody, and CB Andre Woolfolk. These are all good signings, but will they really help? They are still unsure if Kellen Clemens or Chad Pennington will start at quarterback, and the running game was awful last year, and they Jesse Chatman won't be the answer to that. So here's the positions they'll have to address this draft...
CB- The Jets need to add an aggressive, lockdown cornerback that would help make a great 1-2 combo with Darrelle Revis.
LB- Jonathan Vilma was traded, so the Jets will most likely draft one or two linebackers that can help stop the run. The Jets were ranked 29th in the NFL last year against the rush. They'll have to improve on that if they want to make it to the playoffs this year.
OT- I can't say that D'brick is a bust yet, but he hasn't produced like the Jets have expected him to the last two years, and Nick Mangold is another descent tackle, but the Jets might want to add one more tackle that is a great pass protector to make some competition in the position.
RB- Thomas Jones struggled last year, only reaching the end-zone once. Leo Washington is a better kick-returner than runningback, so the Jets should look to invest in a powerful runningback that can help Jones out. Remember how good Jones was when he was in the duo with Cedric Benson?
OG- The Jets will need to draft a guard that can create some space for the runningbacks to run through. This position will most likely be addressed in the 3rd or 4th round.
The Jets hope that their off-season spending spree will help make them an elite team to compete with the Patriots for the division title. With just a few positions to be addressed in the draft, this team should be a good one.
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