NFL Offseason Notes [Archive]

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 01:59 PM

MIAMI (AP) -- Cleveland Browns (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/browns) wide receiver Donte' Stallworth began serving a 30-day jail sentence Tuesday for killing a pedestrian while driving drunk in Florida, a punishment made possible by his cooperation with investigators and the fervent wish by the victim's family to put the matter behind them.

Stallworth, 28, also reached a confidential financial settlement with the family of 59-year-old Mario Reyes, a construction worker struck and killed early on March 14 by Stallworth, driving drunk in his black 2005 Bentley.

Stallworth had faced 15 years in prison for his DUI manslaughter conviction. After his release from jail, he must serve two years of house arrest and spend eight years on probation. The house arrest provisions will allow him to resume his football career, his attorney said.

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said the league is reviewing the matter for possible disciplinary action. Stallworth could face suspension without pay for some games this year.

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 02:00 PM

DENVER (AP) -- Brandon Marshall (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7868) is saying his good-byes to the Denver Broncos (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/broncos) and their fans even as coach Josh McDaniels talks about seeing his holdout Pro Bowl receiver at training camp next month.

Marshall posted a farewell on his blog Tuesday, four days after requesting a trade during a private meeting with team owner Pat Bowlen.

Bowlen hasn't said whether he'll honor Marshall's trade request, and McDaniels says he expects Marshall to report to camp at the end of next month rather than follow Jay Cutler (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7760) out of town.

Cutler was traded to Chicago in an acrimonious split several weeks after McDaniels talked about bringing Matt Cassel (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7406) over from New England for a reunion in Denver.

Marshall's beef is primarily financial.

He's scheduled to make $2.2 million in 2009 and he wants more money, befitting a player who has posted consecutive 100-catch seasons and went to the Pro Bowl after last season. But he has health and legal issues that leave him with little, if any, leverage.

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 02:01 PM

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Carolina Panthers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/panthers) running back Jonathan Stewart (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8790) says he'll be ready for the start of training camp after being sidelined all offseason with pain in his left Achilles' tendon.

Stewart revealed details of the injury for the first time Tuesday. Stewart said the Achilles' first flared up in offseason conditioning in February and likely stems from favoring his left foot after toe surgery last offseason.

Stewart rushed for a Panthers rookie record 836 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. Teamed with DeAngelo Williams (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7776), Carolina ranked third in the NFL in rushing.

Stewart was unable to practice at last month's minicamp or during optional workouts this month. He said he'll be "off and running" once training camp starts on Aug. 2.

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 02:02 PM

CARROLLTON, Texas (AP) -- Roy Williams (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6766) figures it is pointless to watch film from his 10 games with the Dallas Cowboys (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/cowboys) last season. There is nothing the receiver really wants to see.

"Maybe if I watch T.O. or something," Williams said. "But I'm not going to watch myself blck all day long. ... I didn't get many opportunities to catch a ball, which was tough on me because I know what kind of player I am."

But with Terrell Owens (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3664) gone, Williams now gets his chance to be Dallas' top receiver.

Considering what the Cowboys gave up to acquire Williams in the middle of last season, including first- and third-round draft picks and a $45 million contract extension through 2013, that is what they expect.

"The pressure's on me," Williams said. "The expectations are big. But that's fine. That's how I want them to be."

The offseason work began in February, a month before Owens was released, when Williams started running routes and catching passes from Tony Romo (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6624). The final organized team workouts are at this week's minicamp until training camp opens in late July.

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 02:03 PM

PHOENIX (AP) -- Arizona Cardinals (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/cardinals) tight end Ben Patrick (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8469) has been suspended for four games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

Patrick tested positive for the drug Adderall, an amphetamine, his agent Kevin Omell said on Monday.

The agent says Patrick took the drug to stay awake while driving from Flagstaff to Phoenix during the team's bye week in mid-October.

According to Omell, Patrick got the pill from a friend who had used the drug to stay up late studying.

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 02:04 PM

ALAMEDA, Calif. (AP) -- The Oakland Raiders (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/raiders) signed defensive end Greg Ellis (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4274) on Monday night, acquiring a veteran presence as they work to upgrade their defense.

The 6-foot-6, 262-pound Ellis, who turns 34 on Aug. 14, was released earlier this month by the Dallas Cowboys (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/cowboys) -- his team for all 11 of his NFL seasons. The sides completed the deal late Monday when he signed the contract, Raiders CEO Amy Trask said.

Ellis has also played linebacker but will be a defensive end in the Raiders' 4-3 system. Oakland's defense struggled in the pass rush and to generate sacks last season. Training camp opens next month in nearby Napa.

"We are proud and excited that he chose the Raiders," Trask said by phone. "We believe he will be a fine contributor at defensive end."
Raiders coach Tom Cable has acknowledged the team might trade former Pro Bowler Derrick Burgess (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5510), who is unhappy with his contract, if Oakland gets adequate compensation.

Ellis has 77 career sacks, including a career-best 121/2 in 2007 for the Cowboys. He's had 30 or more tackles in eight of his professional seasons.

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 02:05 PM

The rumor mill continues to churn regarding potential destinations for Broncos receiver Brandon Marshall. Last night, we heard that the Ravens might be interested. We're hearing rumblings of Brandon possibly being traded to the Browns. The package would include, per the rumor, Browns kick returner/receiver Josh Cribbs and one or more draft picks. Such a move also would likely put Braylon Edwards in play for a trade elsewhere.
profootballtalk.com (http://www.profootballtalk.com/2009/06/16/brandon-to-the-browns/)

-Z-

06-17-2009, 02:44 PM

Glad you're here, you can help me run the NFL picks thread this season.

BigJD69

06-17-2009, 03:10 PM

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 03:43 PM

Glad you're here, you can help me run the NFL picks thread this season.

Oh no lol

IT'll be easy. I used to do them with spreads. Piece of cake.

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 03:44 PM

What about the N.Y. Giants would they be interested?

Geez they should be!!!

Goodfellas

06-17-2009, 03:46 PM

We could run some fantasy leagues on cbs.sportsline.com. They do all the work.

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:37 AM

DALLAS (AP) -- Former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4255) posted a $45,000 bond Wednesday in Washington for drug and burglary charges out of Texas after being arrested by customs agents as he returned to the United States from Canada.

James Farren, the district attorney in Randall County in West Texas, said Leaf was arrested Wednesday by federal customs agents. Legal assistant Jennifer Bonstein said Leaf declined to waive extradition during a hearing Wednesday afternoon in Bellingham, Wash., about 90 miles north of Seattle.

Wendy Jones, chief corrections deputy for the Whatcom County Jail, confirmed that Leaf posted bond Wednesday evening.

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:39 AM

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) -- At least for now, the Chicago Bears (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/bears) are ready to go to training camp with the wide receivers on their roster to complement new quarterback Jay Cutler (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7760).

However, former New York Giants (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/giants) receiver Plaxico Burress (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5037) and disgruntled Denver Broncos (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/broncos) receiver Brandon Marshall (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7868) are intriguing possibilities for the Bears.

"We keep all of our options open," Bears coach Lovie Smith said Wednesday following the team's final voluntary offseason workout.

"We're constantly evaluating all the players who are out there. But I feel good about our team that we have right now and I feel good about the receivers we have right now."

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:40 AM

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -- Hold off on that housewarming gift, Bills fans. Terrell Owens (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3664)' search for a place to live in Buffalo is back on.

Some 15 hours after the receiver posted on his Twitter.com site that his search for a home was over, Owens changed course Wednesday afternoon after his real estate agent, Maureen Flavin, spoke to numerous media outlets, including The Associated Press.

Tweeting in all capital letters, Owens accused Flavin of being unprofessional, while noting that he will not be renting the place in question. In a follow-up post, Owens added that he couldn't believe "she would do (that) after we specifically talked (to) her about confidentiality."

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:40 AM

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- Free agent Derrick Brooks (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3141) said Wednesday he plans to play in the NFL this fall and possibly even return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/buccaneers), a team he led to a Super Bowl victory.

The NFL Defensive Player of the Year when Tampa Bay won the Super Bowl after the 2002 season, Brooks was among five players the Bucs cut in a February purge that included his former Florida State teammate, Warrick Dunn (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3893).

"I could still be a Buccaneer," Brooks said. "Stranger things that have happened. Teams are talking to me so I'm going to make sure I continue to stay in shape."

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:42 AM

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- After a futile attempt to accelerate progress toward a contract extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/buccaneers), linebacker Barrett Ruud (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7212) is back on the practice field with his teammates.

The fifth-year pro skipped all 14 of the club's voluntary offseason workouts, however he's participating in this week's mandatory minicamp that wraps up the squad's preparation for the start of training camp on July 31.

"I was hoping to sort of speed things along a little bit," Rudd said of his decision to work out on his own at the University of Nebraska instead of joining the Bucs for Organized Team Activities (OTAs) over the past month.

Rudd is scheduled to earn about $1.6 million this fall in the final season of a contract he signed as a rookie in 2005. He's led the Bucs in tackles the past two years and is the club's lone returning starter at linebacker.

"I'd like to be here for a long time. I've really enjoyed the organization. It's a first-class organization and a great community, and I like my teammates," Ruud said. "In that respect, I am disappointed things haven't progressed."

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:43 AM

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) -- The Broncos have released linebacker Boss Bailey (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6370), bringing a quick end to the Bailey brothers reunion in Denver.

Also Wednesday, Denver signed Pro Bowl center Casey Wiegmann (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3820) to an extension through 2010. Wiegmann is entering his 14th season.
Boss Bailey's agent Jack Reale confirmed Baily had been released. He was signed last March, uniting him with his Pro Bowl cornerback brother Champ Bailey (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4655).

Boss Bailey played six games for Denver before a left knee injury ended his season in a game at New England on Oct. 20. He was placed on injured reserve and later had microfracture surgery.
Reale says Bailey will assess his next move once the knee is healed.
Before the Broncos, Boss Bailey spent five seasons in Detroit.

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:43 AM

Tim Hasselbeck, a former backup quarterback for the Giants, said on ESPN's NFL Live yesterday that teams -- including the Jets -- would be wise to refrain from signing his former teammate Plaxico Burress. "When you're looking at Plaxico Burress, there's no doubt that he can be a dominant receiver at times on Sundays," Hasselbeck said. "We've seen it. But with that being said, I played with the guy. I was in the locker room with him for two years. He's a disaster as a teammate. He's a disaster as a guy that you have to coach."
New York Post (http://www.nypost.com/seven/06172009/sports/giants/tim_hasselbeck__plaxico_burress_a_disast_174681.ht m)

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:44 AM

Plaxico Burress is intent on playing in 2009, and it appears he wouldn't mind doing so in Tampa Bay. The former Giants receiver, who is embroiled in a legal snafu and faces weapons charges in New York after an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound last year, reached out to Bucs RB Derrick Ward and others on the team to express an interest in joining them.
St. Petersburg Times (http://www.tampabay.com/sports/football/bucs/article1010807.ece)

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 12:20 PM

As they brought their offseason workout program to a close Wednesday the Bucs sent a seemingly ominous message to quarterbacks Luke McCown and Byron Leftwich: watch out for Josh Freeman. McCown and Leftwich are still the leading contenders for the starter's job, but the Bucs now say they won't hesitate to throw Freeman into that race if he continues to show the progress he's shown in recent weeks.
Tampa Tribune (http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/jun/17/rookie-freeman-could-join-bucs-quarterback-battle/sports-bucs/)

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 06:34 PM

NEW YORK (AP) -- Donte' Stallworth will get out of jail in four weeks. Now it's up to Roger Goodell to say when the Cleveland Browns (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/browns) receiver can return to the field.

Stallworth was indefinitely suspended by the NFL commissioner Thursday, two days after he began a 30-day jail sentence for killing a pedestrian while driving drunk in Miami.

In a letter to Stallworth, Goodell said Thursday the player's actions caused "irreparable harm." He will not be paid while suspended.
Stallworth pleaded guilty this month to a DUI manslaughter charge for striking Mario Reyes on March 14. He began serving a 30-day jail sentence Tuesday and has reached a financial settlement with the family of the 59-year-old construction worker.

After jail, the 28-year-old Stallworth must serve two years of house arrest and spend eight years on probation. The house arrest provisions would allow him to play.

"The conduct reflected in your guilty plea resulted in the tragic loss of life and was inexcusable," Goodell wrote. "While the criminal justice system has determined the legal consequences of this incident, it is my responsibility as NFL commissioner to determine appropriate league discipline for your actions, which have caused irreparable harm to the victim and his family, your club, your fellow players and the NFL."

In the letter, excerpts of which were released by the NFL, Goodell said he will eventually contact Stallworth's representatives before determining the length of the suspension.

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 07:47 PM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- The Jacksonville Jaguars (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jaguars) have been awarded long-snapper Jeremy Cain (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7123) off waivers from the Washington Redskins (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/redskins).

Cain, originally signed as an undrafted rookie linebacker by Chicago in 2004, has played in 17 games with the Bears and Tennessee Titans (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/titans).

In Jacksonville, he will compete with veteran Joe Zelenka (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4926) for the long-snapper job in training camp. Zelenka has been the team's long-snapper the last eight seasons, playing in a team-record 128 consecutive games.

Cain was a two-time All-America selection at linebacker at Massachusetts, where he ranked fifth on the school's career list with 363 tackles.

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 07:48 PM

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- The Pittsburgh Steelers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/steelers) have signed a trio of draft picks to three-year contracts.

The Steelers signed receiver Mike Wallace (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9348), defensive end Ra'Shon Harris and center A.Q. Shipley on Thursday. Six of their nine picks from this year's draft are now under contract.

Wallace was a third-round pick out of Ole Miss. Harris was selected in the sixth round out of Oregon and Shipley in the seventh from Penn State.

First-round pick Evander Hood (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9296) and third-rounder Kraig Urbik (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9343) are still unsigned, as is seventh-rounder David Johnson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9505).

The team also released six players on Thursday including former California University of Pennsylvania quarterback Kevin McCabe.
The Steelers open training camp July 31.

Goodfellas

06-18-2009, 08:05 PM

Speaking after Wednesday's morning workout Tony Romo refuted a report from earlier this week that offensive coordinator Jason Garrett had a meeting to discuss the quarterback's conditioning. "There was no such meeting," Romo said. "We live in a world where it's sensationalized. When you see something or hear something, you write it. That's completely false. If there's anything those guys tell me, it's to throttle back sometimes just because I do a lot of running playing soccer and basketball and stuff to stay in shape, plus the stuff we do. So when you hear stuff like that, people don't know."

Dallas Morning News (http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/06/tony-romo-says-jason-garrett-didnt-send.html)

Sandpig

06-18-2009, 09:35 PM

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 06:06 AM

Romo sucks.:p

Mr Big Game LOL

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 06:52 AM

DENVER (AP) -- The Denver Broncos (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/broncos) have released linebacker Louis Green (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7082), safety Herana-Daze Jones, running back Kestahn Moore and cornerback Rashod Moulton (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/13125).

The team announced the moves Thursday.

Green played 64 games with Denver since signing with the team in January 2003. He had 36 special-teams tackles and seven defensive stops with the Broncos.

Jones is a fourth-year safety who spent the final month of the 2008 season on the Broncos' roster after joining the club in December. He played in the Broncos' final two games last season, notching two tackles on special teams.

The Broncos signed Moore, a rookie from Florida, as an undrafted free agent in April. Moulton is a first-year cornerback who spent most of the 2008 season on Denver's practice squad.

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 06:53 AM

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- A memorabilia dealer O.J. Simpson was convicted of robbing at a Las Vegas hotel is trying to stop a public auction of footballs, jerseys and other items seized by authorities after the stickup.

Los Angeles County sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore said Thursday his department began the auction process by notifying Simpson about the sale.

But Whitmore says Bruce Fromong, one of two memorabilia dealers who were robbed in 2007, has claimed ownership of the collectibles.
An attorney for Fred Goldman wants to proceed with the sale. He says proceeds from the auction will help satisfy a wrongful death judgment the families of slaying victims Ronald Goldman and Nicole Brown Simpson won against Simpson in 1995.

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 06:54 AM

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) -- Louisiana's government would lease office space from the owner of the New Orleans Saints (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/saints) as part of a deal to keep the team in the state.

There was little discussion about the rental plan Thursday before it was unanimously approved by the state Senate. The measure to sidestep the traditional leasing process for state agencies heads back to the House, which already approved an earlier version.

Saints owner Tom Benson plans to buy and redevelop a vacant office complex and a vacant former mall next to the Louisiana Superdome. Under the deal devised by Gov. Bobby Jindal, the state agreed to rent office space in a deal to funnel money to the NFL team while limiting direct cash subsidies.

In exchange, Benson agreed to keep the Saints in New Orleans through 2025.

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 06:55 AM

AURORA, Colo. (AP) -- Holdout wide receiver Brandon Marshall (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7868) reported to camp -- his own.

The Denver Broncos Pro Bowl receiver who skipped the team's mandatory minicamp last weekend in a contract dispute is holding a two-day youth football camp for 500 kids ages 7-18 at a local high school.

Marshall declined to answer questions about his status with the Broncos on Thursday, other than to say he and his agent are communicating with the team.

Asked if he thought this youth football camp was his grand goodbye to the community that's embraced him, Marshall said basically that nothing good lasts forever.

"I think we saw this past year as far as change, as for changes in our front office. Coach Shanahan being here 13 years. Gone! I think that's part of life. You know it's just change," Marshall said.

"You can control what you can control and what you can't control you don't worry about. So I'm here to show my wisdom, to give wisdom and get a feel for the kids."

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 06:56 AM

With a long to-do list, the one thing the Bears failed to accomplish was bringing in a veteran wide receiver. General manager Jerry Angelo tried dealing for the Arizona Cardinals' Anquan Boldin on draft day and would have used his first-round pick on a wideout if he didn't trade for Jay Cutler. Lovie Smith didn't rule out free agent Plaxico Burress, but his unresolved court case in New York makes him a question mark from a legal standpoint -- and also from the standpoint of potential punishment from the NFL. Smith, who can't comment on players under contract with other teams, harshly said ''no'' when Brandon Marshall's name was brought up. Marshall has requested a trade out of Denver, and a reunion with Cutler is a natural storyline, but Marshall has a checkered off-field history, is coming off hip surgery and would require substantial compensation to acquire. Go ahead and rule him out. Burress, though, remains a possibility.
Chicago Sun Times (http://www.suntimes.com/sports/football/bears/1628538,CST-SPT-bear18.article)

cook

06-19-2009, 07:47 AM

Mr Big Game LOL
Down here we say Romo loves football....it comes right behind golf and chicks

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 12:58 PM

I spent some time talking to Jerry yesterday afternoon at Cowboys Stadium, which is fabulous, and he made some interesting comments about T.O. The gist of what he said is that T.O. had to go so others in addition to Roy Williams could thrive in the Cowboys' offense. "Frankly, the most basic reason that I changed my mind regarding Terrell Owens was the ability to maximize the potential of Roy Williams, Miles Austin, Sam Hurd, the running backs and our tight ends. That was the most fundamental thing."
Dallas Morning News (http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/06/jjt-jerry-says-to-had-to-go-for-others-t.html)

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 12:58 PM

Eli Manning is still in line to get one of the most lucrative contracts in NFL history. He is just going to have to wait a little longer than expected. Manning and the Giants remain far apart in their negotiations on a new deal, according to two NFL sources with knowledge of the talks. But they had originally hoped to do it this spring, with the Giants prepared to make Manning one of the NFL's richest players. According to one source, Manning's agents "want to make him the highest-paid player." Another source suggested the Super Bowl XLII MVP's initial asking price was up near an average of $20 million per year.
New York Daily News (http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/2009/06/19/2009-06-19_quarterback_eli_manning_aiming_high_in_quest_fo r_giant_payday.html)

Goodfellas

06-19-2009, 12:59 PM

Carson Palmer's wife, Shaelyn, can rest easy. There's no way her husband, the Bengals' quarterback, is going to let Chad Ochocinco, the team's star wide receiver, crash at their Southern California home in July while the two work out together. Three's company? Hardly. Carson said Shaelyn got either a text message or e-mail from a friend, saying Ochocinco planned to stay with the Palmers in the days leading up to training camp. Shaelyn gave birth to twins -- a boy and a girl -- on Jan. 20. Undeterred, Ochocinco keeps insisting he's staying with the Palmers.
Dayton Daily News (http://www.daytondailynews.com/dayton-sports/cincinnati-bengals/mrs-palmer-puts-foot-down-chad-not-a-houseguest-169314.html)

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 05:40 AM

SAN DIEGO (AP) -- The San Diego Chargers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/chargers) have signed fifth-round draft pick Brandon Hughes (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9412) to a four-year deal.

Hughes, a cornerback from Oregon State, is the first member of the 2009 draft class to sign.

He played for former Chargers coach Mike Riley and finished his college career with 178 tackles and three interceptions.

Also Friday, the Chargers releases guard Sam Allen, cornerback Ramarcus Brown, wide receiver Jeremy Childs and linebacker Anthony Felder. All were rookie free agents.

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 05:41 AM

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) -- The Minnesota Vikings (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/vikings) have waived quarterback Sean Glennon, offensive lineman Bobby Lepori and tight end Nick Walker.

All three were signed as rookie free agents after not being drafted in April. Glennon played at Virginia Tech, Lepori at Fresno State and Walker at Alabama.

The cuts trimmed the Vikings roster to 82 players. The roster limit is 80 players, but drafted rookies do not count against the cap until they are signed.

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 05:43 AM

MIAMI (AP) -- Former NFL and Miami Hurricanes star quarterback Bernie Kosar has filed for bankruptcy protection in Miami.

Kosar's Chapter 11 filing Friday lists assets between $1 million and $10 million and liabilities of between $10 million and $50 million.

Kosar owes almost $1.5 million in "unsecured debt" to the Cleveland Browns (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/browns), who he played for from 1985 to 1993. Kosar also owes his ex-wife Babette $3 million and $725,000 (from a personal loan) to the owner of the Cleveland Gladiators of the Arena Football League. He owes a bank more than $9 million for bad real estate deals.

The 45-year-old Kosar got divorced in 2007 and last year saw his steakhouse go out of business.

Kosar, who also played for Dallas and Miami, retired from the NFL in 1996.

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 05:44 AM

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Two months after drafting Josh Freeman (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9281) as their quarterback of the future, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/buccaneers) are not ruling out the prospect of him earning the starting job much sooner than expected.

Veterans Luke McCown (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6865) and Byron Leftwich (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6343) remain the frontrunners, however the team's first-round draft pick has shown enough during offseason workouts and this week's minicamp that the Bucs are rethinking their stance on bringing him along slowly.

"I'm going to play the best guy,'' coach Raheem Morris said, looking forward to the start of training camp on Aug. 1.

"I don't want to give anybody anything. I want that quarterback to take it. Then I want all of us to be able to say, `that's our quarterback.'''

Freeman was the 17th player selected in the draft following a standout career at Kansas State, where Morris was defensive coordinator during the quarterback's freshman year.

The Bucs have said they won't rush his development, however McCown and Leftwich haven't done much to set themselves apart in the competition.

"He's pushing the envelope. Those guys are fighting with him. He's fighting back. That's what you want,'' Morris said.

BigJD69

06-20-2009, 10:29 AM

We could run some fantasy leagues on cbs.sportsline.com. They do all the work.
Count me in!

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 11:37 AM

Sounds good I will make some leagues when the season gets nearer and give everyone the passwords n stuff.

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 11:37 AM

Why, supposedly, did T.O. have to go? Yes, it has plenty to do with Tony Romo. Absolutely, Owens' penchant for being a major pain in the ass played a role. And, as most of us have suspected, this did come down to his effect on team chemistry. Oddly enough, however, T.O.'s popularity in the Cowboys' locker room is precisely why he was asked to clear out his belongings. The bottom line, team executive vice president Stephen Jones said Thursday, is that he and his father came to this conclusion: For the team's highly paid quarterback to become a truly influential leader, the big man on campus had to be jettisoned. "It's hard to take over leadership when you've got a strong personality like Terrell," Jones said. "If you look back at our old teams [from the 1990s], a lot of people would say maybe Michael [Irvin] was the leader. Then you might say, 'He was a receiver. What about Troy [Aikman]? He was the quarterback. Wasn't he the leader' And the answer is, yeah, Troy was a leader. But if Michael wasn't supportive of him, Troy would've had problems."
Yahoo! Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=ApPtLIitG1ZG0WDViw_6fUQ5nYcB?slug=ms-thegameface061909&prov=yhoo&type=lgns)

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 11:38 AM

Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown, who remains a senior member of Cleveland Browns management, suggested on Friday that Browns receiver Donte' Stallworth was smoking marijuana on the evening/morning of the accident that claimed the life of 59-year-old Mario Reyes. Brown made his remarks during an appearance on 790 The Ticket's The Dan LeBatard Show. "This situation is a tragedy all around, but what was involved was alcohol and marijuana," Brown said. "On one hand, DUI is a very serious thing in America. Marijuana of course is against all the rules." Brown explained that he has some "inside information that says that that was also a part of what was detected," presumably in the blood test imposed on Stallworth. Brown said he's not "100 percent sure" that this is true, but Brown said he spoke with a "very reliable source" who shared this information.
profootballtalk.com (http://www.profootballtalk.com/2009/06/19/jim-brown-suggests-that-marijuana-was-involved-in-stallworth-accident/)

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 11:39 AM

Vikings fans rooting for the team to sign Brett Favre got more reasons to cheer on Friday: Coach Brad Childress said Favre is "pain-free right now" during a radio interview in which he lavished praise on the future hall of fame quarterback. It was an important update on the status of Favre's surgically repaired arm. The widespread belief is that Favre will sign with the Vikings as long as his arm wouldn't prevent him from playing at a high level. Childress' effusive comments serve as the latest mounting evidence that the Vikings want the marriage to happen, and Favre appears more ready, at least physically, to walk down the aisle. Childress said Favre understands the benefits of going through a full training camp with a team, and more pressing than getting to know the Vikings' offense would be getting to know his new teammates and their abilities on the field. Don't expect the Favre signing to happen until close to training camp, though. Childress plans to leave Monday for a weeklong fishing trip to Alaska with Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid. And Childress' daughter, Cara, is getting married July 11 in the Twin Cities area.
St. Paul Pioneer Press (http://www.twincities.com/vikings/ci_12650819?nclick_check=1)

Goodfellas

06-20-2009, 11:39 AM

Bill Belichick getting a second chance -- in the same decade, no less -- to be the head coach of the Cleveland Browns? Whoa! That's a stunning thought. But if former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar had had his way, then it indeed would have happened and Belichick -- not Chris Palmer -- would have been hired as the first head coach of the expansion Browns a decade ago. Kosar said that Friday morning while serving as a guest on "The Really Big Show" on Cleveland sports talk radio station WKNR (850-AM) with host Tony Rizzo. "I went to Mr. (Al) Lerner and Carmen Policy in 1998 and told them when they were talking about who should be the head coach of the new franchise, that they should hire Belichick. They laughed at me. They ridiculed me," Kosar said.
scout.com (http://cle.scout.com/2/873641.html)

Goodfellas

06-21-2009, 07:04 AM

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- The Green Bay Packers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/packers) haven't been sacked by the recession despite a rough season on the field and significant financial challenges off it, but officials remain wary of the future.

The NFL's only publicly owned franchise turned a $20.1 million operating profit last year, according to team officials. Taking into account significant investment losses, the Packers still managed $4 million in net income for the fiscal year ending March 31.

That's down $19.4 million from the previous year -- but the numbers remain black, not red, and that's more than can be said for many businesses these days.
"We have been able to weather it OK," Packers treasurer Larry Weyers said. "We're still a strong institution and we still have the strength to support football operations and maintain the quality of our football team."

But Weyers added: "It's obviously somewhat concerning whenever your profits dropped off as much as ours did this year."

Goodfellas

06-21-2009, 08:55 AM

Odds are that Braylon Edwards will remain with the team this season. ... unless a team comes out of nowhere with a huge trade offer late in training camp because a receiver is hurt and it is desperate for a replacement. So far, Edwards has been doing what the coaches have asked.
Cleveland Plain Dealer (http://www.cleveland.com/pluto/blog/index.ssf/2009/06/terry_plutos_talkin_about_clev.html)

Goodfellas

06-21-2009, 08:56 AM

Even if Donte Stallworth stayed out of trouble, it's hard to know how much of a role he'd have played this season. One thing all the coaches appreciate about Braylon Edwards is that he blocks and can be a physical player. Stallworth has never been accused of that. Nor is he considered mentally tough. Brian Robiskie has been solid in camp.
Cleveland Plain Dealer (http://www.cleveland.com/pluto/blog/index.ssf/2009/06/terry_plutos_talkin_about_clev.html)

Goodfellas

06-21-2009, 12:42 PM

So, you want to know how Kellen Winslow is fitting in with his new team? The men he will play alongside will tell you he seems right at home after his trade in late February. About the only disagreement is whether he's more receiver than tight end or vice versa. Really, the answer is whatever the Bucs want it to be. But on this there is total agreement: Winslow, 25, will be used extensively. Offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski said he believes in widespread use of his tight ends, and, being a former tight ends coach with the Packers and Falcons, he is intimately familiar with the position.
St. Petersburg Times (http://www.tampabay.com/sports/football/bucs/article1012113.ece)

Goodfellas

06-21-2009, 12:43 PM

Titans linebacker Keith Bulluck received a gift in the mail not long after the Super Bowl. It was from a Steelers fan and included a reminder that Bulluck's Terrible Towel stomp didn't go over well in Pittsburgh. The note read: On behalf of the Steelers Nation we would love to present you with our new Terrible Towel. Hang this up in your locker room. Sincerely, The Black and Gold. P.S. -- I hope you enjoyed the Super Bowl. "I laughed. I thought it was hilarious,'' Bulluck said.
Tennessean (http://www.tennessean.com/article/20090620/SPORTS01/906200344/1002/SPORTS/Fan+sends+Bulluck+reminder+of+towel+controversy)

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 12:59 PM

Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell is arranging a week of practice for any of the team's other quarterbacks and all the wide receivers and tight ends, at an undisclosed location. Russell wasn't about to divulge many details. He said he just wants to make sure the quarterbacks and receivers are on the same page when training camp begins July 30 in Napa. That's music to Raiders coach Tom Cable's ears as he yearns for Russell to grow into his role as a starting quarterback and team leader. Cable has made it known that he wants Russell to work harder and grasp better the things necessary to be a successful NFL quarterback.
Oakland Tribun (http://www.insidebayarea.com/sports/ci_12615729)

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 12:59 PM

Chiefs coach Todd Haley's intensity and business-first approach is certainly getting results, but what happens if Kansas City struggles anyway? Because he is testing players' limits, is he under some sort of psychological deadline in which he must prove his harsh method works -- before players begin to question it or, worse, revolt? I think Haley will lose some soldiers' faith if the Chiefs start, say, 1-5. It's natural. Players questioned Herm Edwards last year, and he was as friendly to players.
Kansas City Star (http://chiefsblog.kansascity.com/?q=node/831)

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 01:00 PM

talked to some of the teams that might be interested in former Giant Plaxico Burress if he's free to play this year, and all of them are concerned about the ruling from the commissioner. No one in the league takes the personal conduct ruling lightly, but what concerned one team most was Burress' five brushes with the law as a result of driving since the gun incident. Everyone I spoke to seems to feel the commissioner will come down hard on Burress and is fearful that he might not be able to play. The delay game Burress is attempting is not really helping his situation.
National Football Post (http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Sunday-at-the-Post-6292.html)

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 01:02 PM

Brett Favre's agent denied a report today that the quarterback is already under contract with the Vikings. Agent Bus Cook wrote in an e-mail to the Pioneer Press today that there is "no contract" when asked about a report by Profootballtalk.com, which reports Favre had already signed and that the quarterback and the team are waiting to release the news. The report, which cites an unidentified source, also states that the Vikings have already approved the production of official Favre jerseys with Reebok.
St. Paul Pioneer Press (http://blogs.twincities.com/Vikings/2009/06/bus-cook-no-contract.html)

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 04:00 PM

ST. LOUIS (AP) -- Veteran defensive tackle La'Roi Glover is retiring after 13 NFL seasons.

Glover, who turns 35 on July 4, spent the past three seasons with the St. Louis Rams. He was not re-signed following the 2008 season, when he had 30 tackles only one-half sack.

He was selected by Oakland in the fifth round of the 1996 draft. After a year with the Raiders, he played five seasons in New Orleans and four in Dallas before signing with the Rams as a free agent prior to the 2006 season.

Glover had 627 tackles and 83.5 sacks for his career. He led the NFL with 17 sacks for the Saints in 2000, a rare feat for a defensive tackle.

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 06:14 PM

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- Green Bay Packers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/packers) safety Nick Collins (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7227) showed up for the team's mandatory minicamp, though he clearly doesn't consider his contract situation resolved.

Collins said Monday that he was happy to be back after skipping all but one of the team's voluntary workouts and was committed to the team.

He didn't want to talk about his contract, which runs through the end of this season. Asked if he would show up for training camp if the team didn't redo his deal, Collins said simply: "We'll see."
Coach Mike McCarthy said Collins was in good physical shape and mentally ready to play.

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 06:20 PM

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Here's hoping David Tyree (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/playerpage/396105) makes The Catch again ... and this time I'm talking any catch.
The hero of the New York Giants' (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/teams/page/NYG) Super Bowl XLII victory is sidelined, this time by a sore hamstring that kept him out of this week's minicamp. It doesn't appear serious, and Tyree insists he'll be in Albany, N.Y., for the start of training camp, but it's just another setback for a guy who deserves better.
http://images.cbssports.com/u/photos/football/nfl/img11872690.jpg David Tyree made the leaping catch, fighting off Rodney Harrison, to keep the game-winning drive alive in Super Bowl XLII. (Getty Images) A year ago, Tyree underwent offseason knee surgery, then suffered a hamstring injury to his other leg that slowed his rehabilitation, ended his season and turned Tyree into a spectator as the Giants tried to sort out wide receivers in the wake of the Plaxico Burress (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/playerpage/187385) mess.
Now with Burress' release, they're trying to sort out wide receivers again, and you figure Tyree would be in there as part of the process. Except he isn't. Not now at least. He's back in the locker room, which is the good news. But the bad news is that he can't get out of there, staying in the trainer's room while guys like Mario Manningham (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/playerpage/565222) and Derek Hagan (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/playerpage/411957) try to gain inside positions on one of the last receiver openings. I'd mention Sinorice Moss (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/playerpage/417361), too, except he's also sidelined by a bad hamstring.

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 07:20 PM

The Dolphins are merging with Miami Sound Machine and Margaritaville.

Singer Gloria Estefan and her husband, producer Emilio Estefan, are buying a "very small" ownership stake in the NFL team, a person familiar with the deal said Monday. The person requested anonymity person because the deal won't be announced until Thursday by owner Stephen Ross.

Seven-time Grammy winner Gloria Estefan has had hits with Miami Sound Machine and as a solo artist. Ross began a partnership in May with Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville enterprise, which includes Land Shark Lager.

Buffett has yet to accept Ross' invitation to become a minority owner, but the Dolphins' stadium has been renamed Land Shark Stadium for this season. Buffett wrote a song for the team and will be featured at tailgate parties, Ross has said.

It's unclear whether the Estefans will have a role in Dolphins entertainment. Miami Sound Machine brought a fusion of Latin and pop to the American masses with hits such as "Conga" and "Rhythm Is Gonna Get You," and Emilio Estefan has also produced for such artists as Shakira and Ricky Martin.

The Estefans be among the few Hispanics to hold an ownership stake in an NFL team. Gloria Estefan came to the United States at age 2 when her family fled Cuba shortly after Fidel Castro's revolution, and she has sold more than 90 million records.

Ross, a New York real estate billionaire, completed his purchase of the Dolphins in January from Wayne Huizenga.

The Dolphins confirmed only that the Estefans and Ross will make a "major announcement" Thursday on behalf of the Dolphins.

bringingthehuge

06-22-2009, 07:24 PM

Goodfellas

06-22-2009, 07:52 PM

Tyree hasn't played since that game. Dumb Syracuse Football Player :D

bringingthehuge

06-22-2009, 08:50 PM

Tyree hasn't played since that game. Dumb Syracuse Football Player :D
I wish he didn't play in the Superbowl against the pats

Goodfellas

06-23-2009, 06:30 AM

I wish he didn't play in the Superbowl against the pats

Asante shoulda caught that ball...

Goodfellas

06-23-2009, 08:17 AM

Like Jay Cutler -- traded by the Broncos (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/7) to the Bears (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/3) in April -- Brandon Marshall (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2902) wants Denver to trade him. The prospect that the Bears (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/3), who reportedly might be interested in Marshall, could bring the two Pro Bowlers back together seems to appeal to Cutler. "I talked to 'B' a few days ago," Cutler said during an appearance Monday at William and Mary's Colonial All-Pro Football Camp. "Just checking in on him and seeing how he's doing, because I went through a similar thing that he's going through. "I played with Brandon for three years and I think he's one of the best receivers in the NFL. I think he can be one of the greatest ever to play. "He's big and fast, and can do everything you want him to do, on the field and in the meeting room. I don't know what we're going to do. That's up to the guys upstairs. If we make a run at him, we make a run at him."
Newport News Daily Press (http://www.dailypress.com/sports/dp-spt_jaycutler_0623jun23,0,7158492.story)

Goodfellas

06-23-2009, 08:18 AM

coach Brad Childress has not been able to do the one thing he was hired to do -- install an explosive passing game. In fact, many players who leave the Vikings (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/16) for other teams call their offense high schoolish -- "day-one install" (day-one install means it's generic, very bland, the first day of camp, hence day one). Vikings (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/16) players being unhappy with all the uncertainty over Brett Favre (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/133) is just one more complaint about the lack of leadership from Childress. It's been reliably told to me that one of the main reasons for the departure of Pro Bowl center and lifelong Viking Matt Birk was his lack of belief in the Childress regime. I suspect that Childress' future as a head coach is tied to this year. He must find a way to energize the passing game, which is why Favre is more valuable to him than any other player.
National Football Post (http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Diner-morning-news-Childress-the-Vikings.html)

Goodfellas

06-23-2009, 08:18 AM

running back Clinton Portis (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1213) said that reports of a rift between him and coach Jim Zorn are wrong. "How this story came about, I have no idea," Portis said. "There's nothing going on. There's no beef between me and Coach Zorn. We're on good terms at this present moment. There's no problem." Portis, who attended many of the organized team activities that finished on June 11 at Redskin Park, had a well-publicized spat with Zorn after the coach benched the slumping running back at halftime of the Dec. 7 loss at Baltimore. But Portis said that flareup was "a long time ago" and that ProFootball Talk was needlessly trying to make trouble where none exists.
Washington Times (http://www.washingtontimes.com/weblogs/redskins/2009/jun/22/portis-no-rfit-with-zorn/)

Goodfellas

06-23-2009, 03:49 PM

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Offensive tackle Max Starks (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6834) has signed a four-year contract that keeps him with the Pittsburgh Steelers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/steelers) through the 2012 season and frees up several million dollars in salary cap room for the team.

Starks, the starting left tackle, was designated as the Steelers' franchise player on Feb. 20 -- less than three weeks after they won the Super Bowl -- and he initially accepted a 2009 salary of $8.45 million.

Instead, the new contract is expected to pay him a signing bonus of slightly more than that amount but reduce his annual salary, creating additional salary cap room for a team that was up against the cap most of last season. The signing bonus, for cap purposes, is spread out over the length of the contract.

By agreeing to the four-year contract, Starks no longer carries the franchise player tag.

vboissiere

06-24-2009, 02:01 AM

What about the N.Y. Giants would they be interested?

That would be a hell of a fit!

Goodfellas

06-24-2009, 05:35 AM

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Fernando Bryant (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4675), a cornerback and former first-round draft pick who played 10 NFL seasons with the Jaguars, Lions and Steelers, is retiring.

Bryant started 109 of the 112 NFL games he played, making seven interceptions and recovering nine fumbles.

Bryant, from Alabama, was the No. 26 overall pick by Jacksonville in 1999 and played five seasons with the Jaguars before signing with the Lions as a free agent in 2004.

The 32-year-old Bryant was cut by the Patriots in training camp last year but signed with Pittsburgh on Nov. 11, playing in two regular season games. He was not activated for any of the Super Bowl champion Steelers' playoff games.

Bryant signed a one-year contract with the Steelers in March after starting cornerback Bryant McFadden (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7238) left to play for Arizona.

Goodfellas

06-24-2009, 05:38 AM

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Kansas City Chiefs (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/chiefs) have signed kicker Ryan Succop (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9520), one of the team's three seventh-round draft picks.
Succop, taken with the 256th overall pick in last month's NFL draft, played 50 games in four seasons at South Carolina, hitting 71 percent of his field goals with a long of 55 yards. He hit 66 percent his senior season and converted all 30 of his PATs.

The 6-foot-2 Succop worked out with the Chiefs during offseason practices and is expected to compete with second-year kicker Connor Barth (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9219) for the starting job.

Succop is the first of Kansas City's eight 2009 draft picks to sign. Terms of Tuesday's deal were not disclosed.

Goodfellas

06-24-2009, 12:30 PM

Latest buzz is Brett Favre (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/133) is looking for a home in the gated Bearpath community in Eden Prairie, which isn't far from the Vikings (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/16)' facilities.
St. Paul Pioneer Press (http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_12676157)

Goodfellas

06-24-2009, 12:31 PM

Rex Ryan has overcome a lot of hurdles en route to becoming the Jets (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/20) head coach, but one of them is little known to the public. Ryan recently revealed to newyorkjets.com that he's had to deal with dyslexia, a learning disability that makes it difficult for people to acquire and process language. That has left Ryan with difficulty reading, spelling and writing.
New York Post (http://www.nypost.com/seven/06242009/sports/jets/ryan_battled_dyslexia_175844.htm)

Goodfellas

06-24-2009, 12:32 PM

RoyWilliams refuted highly respected NFL scribe Peter King's report that the coachable wide receiver was never on a consistent weight program until this off-season. "That's trying to find something to make something negative out of me once again," said Williams, who has been hit by a barrage of criticism since being traded from Detroit to Dallas. "I started lifting weights in the seventh grade." Williams, a 6-3, 220-pound physical specimen, said he took lifting seriously throughout his high school career at Odessa Permian. He added that he continued to work hard in the weight room at Texas under the guidance of Jeff "Mad Dog" Madden, one of the country's most famous strength coaches. According to Williams, his current weight program isn't much different than what he did during his four off-seasons in Detroit. Williams said he stopped lifting weights during the season after dealing with various nicks, pulls and strains his first two years in the NFL. "The year I didn't lift during the season, I made it to the Pro Bowl," he said.
Dallas Morning News (http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/06/roy-williams-i-started-lifting-weights-i.html)

Goodfellas

06-24-2009, 12:33 PM

Joe Gibbs and Jim Zorn stood in the rain, waiting for a NASCAR race to start as the downpour came. Until last month at Lowe's Motor Speedway outside Charlotte, the retired-for-good Redskins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/28) coaching icon and the man who succeeded him had never really spent time together. They talked family and Washington and football, which meant they also talked Jason Campbell (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2254). "Just like anybody else would, like two armchair quarterbacks," Zorn said, quickly adding, "With maybe a little more knowledge." "Good conversation," Gibbs said. "We talked a little bit about everything. Not personnel, but more general talk between coaches." Asked if he felt Campbell was mistreated by an organization that dangled him for Jay Cutler (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2794) and Mark Sanchez, Gibbs wouldn't bite.
Washington Post (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/06/23/AR2009062303197.html)

Goodfellas

06-24-2009, 12:34 PM

Devin Hester says he has heard enough. He is tired of hearing the criticism that new Bears (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/3) quarterback Jay Cutler (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2794) is not a mature, capable leader. "If you haven't been around a person like Cutler, how could you say something like that?" Hester said before appearing in a photo shoot Monday evening at Soldier Field for an Under Armour commercial. In recent weeks, Super Bowl-winning coaches Tony Dungy and Mike Ditka have been among those who have expressed reservations about Cutler's maturity level.
Chicago Tribune (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-24-bears-devin-hester-jun24,0,7150659.story)

Goodfellas

06-24-2009, 03:19 PM

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- The Green Bay Packers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/packers) have accomplished perhaps their most important goal of the offseason: signing wide receiver Greg Jennings (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7801) to a contract extension.

The Packers announced Wednesday that they had struck a new deal with Jennings, a second-round draft pick in 2006 who has blossomed into one of the league's most dangerous receivers.

Terms were not disclosed, but the new deal was expected to put Jennings among the NFL's highest-paid receivers. Jennings originally was due to make $535,000 in 2009, the final year of his rookie contract.

Goodfellas

06-25-2009, 05:33 AM

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -- Linebacker Michael Boley (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7336), who signed a five-year, $25 million contract with the New York Giants (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/giants) as a free agent, has undergone hip surgery and almost certainly will miss the start of training camp.

Boley had arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn labrum in an operation performed Wednesday by Dr. Bryan Kelly at the Hospital for Special Surgery. The former Atlanta Falcon hurt his hip during the Giants' offseason program.

A full recovery is expected in approximately 8-10 weeks, the team said. Training camp opens in August.

Boley plays weakside linebacker. Gerris Wilkinson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7845), Bryan Kehl (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8903) and Chase Blackburn (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7470) are still with the team.

Goodfellas

06-25-2009, 11:40 AM

Like many NFL fans and observers, former Chargers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/24) and Patriots (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17) safety Rodney Harrison (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/210) is getting sick of Brett Favre (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/133). And Harrison made his position known during a Wednesday appearance on The Dan Patrick Show. "From the player's I've talked to, a lot of them seem to think Brett Favre (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/133) is pretty selfish," Harrison said. "Each and every offseason bringing so much attention to himself. It's just really a disappointment to hear that time and time again."
profootballtalk (http://www.profootballtalk.com/2009/06/24/rodney-harrison-has-favre-fatigue/)

Goodfellas

06-25-2009, 11:42 AM

A little birdie says Brett Favre (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/133) was spotted at Tria Orthopedics in Edina on Monday for an examination of his throwing arm, which is recovering from surgery to release a frayed biceps tendon.
St. Paul Pioneer Press (http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_12683280)

Goodfellas

06-25-2009, 11:43 AM

There's buzz that the Vikings (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/16) might sign ex-Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/301), 36, who is near the end of his career and has tender knees, to a one-year, low-end deal to provide competition for Sidney Rice (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/9386).
St. Paul Pioneer Press (http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_12683280)

Goodfellas

06-25-2009, 11:45 AM

Goodfellas

06-25-2009, 11:46 AM

One day after Chris Johnson (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/10278) killed the "Smash and Dash" nickname he shared with fellow running back LenDale White (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2828), and branched out on his own with "Every Coach's Dream," there were plenty of one-liners. Coach Jeff Fisher got in on the banter with digs at Johnson for his ankle injury in last season's playoff loss to the Ravens (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/31) and for his drum-banging touchdown celebration against the Chiefs (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/12) that resulted in a penalty flag and a fine. Johnson and White created the "Smash and Dash" moniker last season on the way to combining for 2,001 yards and 24 rushing scores. "I'm sure they'll come up with something else," Fisher said. "Dumb and Dumber or something."
Tennessean (http://www.tennessean.com/article/20090625/SPORTS01/906250367/1002/SPORTS/Johnson+takes+heat+over+new+nickname)

razorsedge

06-25-2009, 04:34 PM

I hope Farve is looking at cemetery lots in the Twin Cities as well. We are going to
literally kill this self absorbed narcissist. Hey Brett, you will be able to pad your
stats while playing for the purple Barneys(aka, Vikings). You can further distance
all other qb's in the career interceptions categoy. GO BEARS!

Goodfellas

06-26-2009, 05:54 AM

Goodfellas

06-26-2009, 06:47 AM

SEATTLE (AP) -- Commissioner Roger Goodell is beginning to focus on evaluating Michael Vick (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5448)'s future in the NFL.

That doesn't mean a decision will come any time before the 2009 regular season begins in September.

Goodell said Thursday his decision on whether to reinstate the former Atlanta Falcons (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/falcons) star quarterback, convicted on federal charges of running a dogfighting ring, will come "in due time."

The Associated Press asked the commissioner during a telephone interview if he is seeing signs yet in Vick of remorse and contrition. Goodell has outlined those as prerequisites to possibly granting Vick's wish to resume his career. He is currently suspended.

"No, we're beginning to focus on evaluating the situation. I haven't spoken to him," Goodell said.

The commissioner said he won't sit down with Vick until after the former quarterback is released July 20 from home confinement and federal custody.

"I haven't given a timeline, other than after he's concluded his legal (case)," Goodell said.

Goodfellas

06-26-2009, 06:48 AM

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- The Detroit Lions (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/lions) have signed center Dominic Raiola (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5497) to a four-year contract extension.

The team announced Thursday that the 6-foot-1, 295-pound starter will remain in Detroit through the 2013 season. Additional contract terms were not disclosed.

Raiola is entering his ninth season with the Lions. He was drafted 50th overall in 2001 and has started at center since 2002, playing in 124 games with 108 starts.

Raiola departed Nebraska after his junior-year season.

Goodfellas

06-26-2009, 11:46 AM

T.O. says he still isn't exactly sure why the Cowboys (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/6) released him, although he has his theories and is sticking with them. He's heard about Stephen Jones' suggestion that Tony Romo (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1739) wouldn't be able to emerge as a leader with T.O. on the roster. "He was the quarterback of the team," T.O. said Thursday. "I think everybody realized that. It was upon him to adopt that leadership role and carry that out. Obviously, they saw that didn't happen. "So, for whatever reason, I'll be the scapegoat. I'm not here. Now, it's his team. You know, and I wish him well."
Dallas Morning News (http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/06/scapegoat-to-wishes-tony-romo-well.html)

Goodfellas

06-26-2009, 11:47 AM

defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1177) broke the bank during free agency with a seven-year contract with a maximum value of $100 million that includes $41 million in guaranteed money, but he claims he could have made even more money if he had signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27). During an interview with Adam Schein and Jim Miller (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/206) of Sirius NFL Radio, Haynesworth revealed that the Buccaneers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27) offered more money than the Redskins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/28). Haynesworth said that the New York Giants (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/19) made a significant offer, but it was much less than the Redskins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/28) and the Buccaneers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27)' respective offers. He also said that the Atlanta Falcons (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1) and the Denver Broncos (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/7) displayed some interest, too.
profootballtalk (http://www.profootballtalk.com/2009/06/25/haynesworth-i-could-have-made-more-money-in-tampa-bay/)

Goodfellas

06-26-2009, 11:48 AM

The difference between Matthew Stafford and Drew Stanton (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/9225) isn't merely the size of their contracts, but also the dimensions of their quarterbacking skill set.he more natural drop-back-passing Stafford zipped a throw on an out pattern during a minicamp practice that hit his receiver in perfect stride. The hybrid Stanton lofted a similar toss that would have been a quail hunter's delight. Stanton stayed on the practice field long after practically everyone else left, working on his five-step-drop throwing rhythm. But it's little more than a futile attempt at turning an ad-lib playmaker into a programmed pocket passer. There is some stability in Stanton's immediate future. He will marry his high school sweetheart from Farmington Hills Harrison on Saturday.
Detroit Free Press (http://www.freep.com/article/20090626/COL08/906260319/1048/SPORTS/MSU+s+Stanton+not+a+fit+with+Lions)

Goodfellas

06-26-2009, 11:48 AM

Chris Henry landed with the Titans (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/10) because of his blazing speed, but his world came to a screeching halt last season. The running back watched 16 of the 17 games from the sideline in street clothes. Calendar pages turned as if in slow motion. There's one thing Henry doesn't want to consider, though it's something that can't be ignored: He might not make it to the season. The Titans (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/10) simply can't wait forever on his potential, not with a set of hungry backs behind the proven duo of Chris Johnson (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/10278) and LenDale White (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2828).
Tennessean (http://www.tennessean.com/article/20090626/SPORTS01/906260375/1002/SPORTS/Titans++clock+ticks+on+long+shot+Chris+Henry+s+car eer)

razorsedge

06-26-2009, 12:01 PM

The definition of a cornerback= q wr who can't catch.;)

vboissiere

06-26-2009, 03:56 PM

The Lions (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/8) have settled former CEO Matt Millen's claim for unpaid wages. After he was fired during the 2008 season, the Lions (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/8) didn't pay Millen another penny. So Millen made a claim for $12 million in unpaid wages. He previously had said that, if he were fired, he would not seek another penny. Apparently, he had his fingers crossed at the time.
profootballtalk (http://www.profootballtalk.com/2009/06/24/lions-settle-millens-claim/)

He has a lot of nerve. He may go down as the worst GM in the history of American sports! He was horrible! He easily passed my two others on the list Thomas (during his time as Knick GM), and Baylor (for his "work" with the clippers).

vboissiere

06-26-2009, 04:03 PM

The definition of a cornerback= q wr who can't catch.;)

lol. Classic

vboissiere

06-26-2009, 04:05 PM

defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1177) broke the bank during free agency with a seven-year contract with a maximum value of $100 million that includes $41 million in guaranteed money, but he claims he could have made even more money if he had signed with the Tampa Bay (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27)Buccaneers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27). During an interview with Adam Schein and Jim Miller (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/206) of Sirius NFL Radio, Haynesworth revealed that the Buccaneers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27) offered more money than the Redskins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/28). Haynesworth said that the New York Giants (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/19) made a significant offer, but it was much less than the Redskins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/28) and the Buccaneers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27)' respective offers. He also said that the Atlanta Falcons (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1) and the Denver Broncos (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/7) displayed some interest, too.
profootballtalk (http://www.profootballtalk.com/2009/06/25/haynesworth-i-could-have-made-more-money-in-tampa-bay/)

So why in God's good name didn't he sign with us?!? :(

Goodfellas

06-26-2009, 04:29 PM

So why in God's good name didn't he sign with us?!? :(

I dunno Bucs are a good team. Redskins are usually high priced free agents that do not work out. Plus their star Portis is always arguing with Coach Zorn.

Goodfellas

06-27-2009, 05:31 AM

PONTIAC, Mich. (AP) -- The former home of the Detroit Lions (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/lions) may be headed to the auction block.

Emergency Financial Manager Fred Leeb says attempts to sell the Pontiac Silverdome have not been successful, and he's prepared to hand it over to an auctioneer if it will speed up the sale of the empty landmark.

Leeb tells The Oakland Press that Pontiac will continue negotiating with potential buyers, but the Detroit suburb also will set up a worldwide auction.

The city spends about $1.5 million annually to maintain the structure.

Pontiac has tried repeatedly to sell the 80,000-seat domed stadium since the Lions left in 2002 to move to Ford Field in Detroit.

Goodfellas

06-27-2009, 05:32 AM

DENVER (AP) -- A suspect in the slaying of Denver Broncos (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/broncos) cornerback Darrent Williams (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7232) has appeared in court in a separate homicide case.

Willie Clark is charged in the 2006 shooting death of Kalonniann Clark of Denver. He was supposed to enter a plea Friday, but his arraignment was postponed until Oct. 2.

Willie Clark also is charged with first degree murder in the drive-by shooting death of Williams on New Year's Day 2007. He faces 39 counts in that case. The trial is set to begin Oct. 13.

Also charged in Kalonniann Clarks' death are Brian Hicks and Shun Birch. The homicide is unrelated to Williams' slaying, but police say Hicks owned an SUV that was used during Williams' slaying.

Prosecutors say Kalonniann Clark was going to testify against Hicks in a drug case and that Hicks told Willie Clark to kill her.

Also Friday, a man considered a witness in the Williams case was arrested when he was spotted in the courtroom. Marquise Harris had an outstanding warrant for failing to appear at a previous hearing on Williams.

Harris told Judge Christina M. Habas that he feared for himself and his family, and he gave a letter to the judge. A court clerk said the letter was sealed to the public.

Habas released Harris, but warned him he would be arrested again if he failed to appear for future court dates.

The three defendants appeared in red jail jumpsuits Friday. They were handcuffed and chained around the waist and feet. Security was tight on the courthouse floor and everyone on the floor was prohibited from using cell phones.

Goodfellas

06-27-2009, 10:11 AM

Recent face-to-face meetings with Carolina Panthers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/29) officials not only led defensive end Julius Peppers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1164) to decide to sign his contract tender to play for the team this season, but also resulted in him becoming open to their long-stated desire to sign him to a long-term extension.
Charlotte Observer (http://blogs.charlotte.com/panthers/2009/06/longterm-deal-could-be-next-for-peppers.html)

Goodfellas

06-27-2009, 10:12 AM

The Jaguars (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/30) agreed to a trade Friday that will send receiver Dennis Northcutt (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/764) to Detroit for Lions (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/8) safety Gerald Alexander (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/8873), according to Jerome Stanley, the agent for both players. Team sources recently spoke about the club making its intentions for trading Northcutt public. The Jaguars (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/30) coaching staff believed Northcutt wasn't a significant enough upgrade over the club's current crop of rookies to justify paying his $2.75 million salary while taking away practice reps from the younger players.
Florida Times-Union (http://www.jacksonville.com/sports/football/jaguars/2009-06-27/story/jaguars_get_safety_for_northcutt)

Goodfellas

06-28-2009, 10:27 AM

Each weekday, Terrell Suggs (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1484) and other NFL defensive stars represented by agent Gary Wichard -- Tennessee's Keith Bulluck (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/763), San Diego's Antonio Cromartie (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2802) and Indianapolis' Dwight Freeney -- meet for workouts as creative as they are grueling. The tires come into play on "Strongman Hill," a dirt slope tucked into the Santa Monica Mountains, where there's always a shovel on hand in case of a chance rattlesnake encounter. Rather than simply running up the path, the players might have waist-high, 75-pound tractor tires tethered behind them, or strapped to their bodies, or flop them up the hill end over end. When they aren't pushing or pulling the waist-high wheels, they're pounding them with sledgehammers.
Los Angeles Times (http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-farmer-nfl28-2009jun28,0,4141377.column)

Goodfellas

06-28-2009, 10:28 AM

head coach Eric Mangini believes Shaun Rogers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/987) can be a leader of the defense because the 360-pounder has the intelligence and charisma to inspire teammates while making the proper reads on different plays. While Rogers came to the Browns (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/5) last summer with the reputation of being moody and fat, he has been in football shape and responsive to coaching in Cleveland. Sometimes, a fresh start is exactly what a player needs.
Cleveland Plain Dealer (http://www.cleveland.com/pluto/blog/index.ssf/2009/06/cleveland_browns_defensive_coo.html)

Goodfellas

06-28-2009, 10:29 AM

Pro Bowl linebacker Terrell Suggs (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1484) said Friday that he is nearing a long-term deal with the Ravens (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/31), a contract that surprisingly wouldn't make him the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL. The league deadline to reach a new contract with players who have received the franchise tag is July 15. If no deal can be struck, Suggs would play under the franchise tag for a second straight season, earning $10.2 million this year.
Baltimore Sun (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bal-sp.suggs27jun27,0,7385048.story)

Goodfellas

06-29-2009, 06:20 AM

GROSSE POINTE SHORES, Mich. (AP) -- Buffalo Bills (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/bills) owner Ralph Wilson is in no hurry to have his team play more than one annual regular-season game in Toronto.

Wilson told The Associated Press on Sunday he'd prefer waiting "two or three years" to determine whether the northern experiment is a success before he'd consider reworking the contract reached last year with Toronto-based Rogers Communications. The Bills are locked into playing five regular-season -- one a year -- and three preseason games in Toronto under the agreement which runs through 2012.

Rogers officials have expressed interest in adding at least one additional regular-season game a year, particularly if the NFL goes forward with a proposal to expand its regular-season schedule to 17 or 18 games.

Wilson said an expanded schedule wouldn't make a difference at this point.

"I'm sure they want another game. And who knows?" Wilson said in an interview conducted at his home outside Detroit. "I don't know whether they'll get another game or not. We'll have to see how it works out up there."

Goodfellas

06-29-2009, 06:21 AM

WASHINGTON (AP) -- In the legal equivalent of running up the score, the National Football League is going to the Supreme Court in search of a bigger victory in an antitrust tussle over team merchandise than it already won from a lower court.

The Supreme Court could decide as early as Monday whether it will hear the case, which involves American Needle Inc.'s challenge to the league's exclusive contract for selling headwear such as caps and hats with team logos on them. American Needle of Buffalo Grove, Ill., is also urging high court review. Football team owners hope the high court will issue a broader decision that would insulate the NFL against what they contend are costly, frivolous antitrust lawsuits.

At the heart of the matter is whether the NFL's teams constitute 32 distinct businesses or a single entity that can act collectively without violating antitrust law.

The case is important to other professional sports besides football. The National Basketball Association and the National Hockey League both filed friend-of-the-court briefs siding with the NFL.
Notably absent is Major League Baseball, which has an antitrust exemption thanks to a 1922 Supreme Court ruling.

Goodfellas

06-29-2009, 10:00 AM

As the landscape for Michael Vick (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/931)'s future takes shape, sources tell me that one team that won't be interested is the New England Patriots (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17). Many have felt that Vick might be an option in New England, but I'm told that the scheme and the lack of potential to become an eventual starter aren't suitable to him.
National Football Post (http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Sunday-at-the-post-5987.html)

Goodfellas

06-29-2009, 10:01 AM

The work ethic of quarterback JaMarcus Russell (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/7771) is still being questioned by many who have worked with him in the past and are working with him now. After he issued a call to his teammates to practice and finish the OTA days strong, he then disappeared and was AWOL on the last day. Russell must learn that talent alone is not going to make him successful. Dedication to becoming a better player is what he needs.
National Football Post (http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Sunday-at-the-post-5987.html)

Goodfellas

06-29-2009, 10:03 AM

General manager Mark Dominik indicated the Bucs (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27) have no interest in signing former Giants (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/19) receiver Plaxico Burress (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/745) at this time. The Bucs (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/27) are looking for receviers to back up starters Antonio Bryant (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1225) and Michael Clayton (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1853).
St. Petersburg Times (http://blogs.tampabay.com/bucs/2009/06/bucs-gm-dominik-goal-to-let-freeman-sit-and-learn.html)

Goodfellas

06-29-2009, 10:04 AM

Former Redskins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/28) stud return man Brian Mitchell says his recent dismissal by a radio station owned by the team is not due to economic factors, as the team claims. Mitchell told USA TODAY's Michael McCarthy that Red Zebra radio cut him as an analyst because he was critical of the Redskins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/28). Station executive Bruce Gilbert said the move was "100% driven by the economy." Mitchell made $150,000 per year.
USA Today (http://blogs.usatoday.com/thehuddle/2009/06/brian-mitchell-redskins-radio-fired-him-for-criticisms.html)

Goodfellas

06-30-2009, 09:43 AM

rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez said he feels very good about how he performed in offseason workouts and that he has positioned himself well to earn the starting job. He is competing with Kellen Clemens (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2832).
NFL.com (http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/06/28/wr-robiskie-fitting-in-with-browns/)

Goodfellas

06-30-2009, 09:43 AM

Two years ago, Ronnie Brown (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2231)'s weight and conditioning were questioned. Too much of one and too little of the latter, went the whispers. While that never was proved one way or the other, no such questions remain today. Brown allows that he would like to be a little leaner, but when those passing the Dolphins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/15) practice field gawk at the size of Brown's thighs or arms, fat isn't a factor.
Miami Herald (http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/football/miami-dolphins/story/1120176.html)

Goodfellas

06-30-2009, 09:44 AM

From Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/1902)'s Twitter page: "I want to thank Rod Woodson and @jamiedukes. For picking me in the NFL TOP 5 D-tackels "I wish I can get paid like the top 5"
Twitter.com (http://twitter.com/DDockett)

Goodfellas

06-30-2009, 09:45 AM

outside linebacker Brian Orakpo said he dropped about five pounds but looks smaller because he has lost some of the upper body mass he carried at the draft in April.
NFL.com (http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/06/28/wr-robiskie-fitting-in-with-browns/)

Goodfellas

07-01-2009, 06:16 AM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- The Jacksonville Jaguars (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jaguars) have traded receiver Dennis Northcutt (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5061) to the Detroit Lions (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/lions) for safety Gerald Alexander (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8315).

The deal was finalized Tuesday after both players passed physicals.
Northcutt gives rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9265), the top pick in April's NFL draft who could replace Daunte Culpepper (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4659) in the starting lineup, a veteran receiver opposite Calvin Johnson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8256).

Alexander, a second-round pick in 2007, gives Jacksonville depth in the secondary. He started 16 games as a rookie, but missed most of last year following a neck injury.

Northcutt, who has 364 receptions for 4,584 yards and 17 touchdowns, has been projected to start this season. But Jacksonville's three rookie receivers were impressive enough during offseason drills that Northcutt became expendable.

Goodfellas

07-01-2009, 06:17 AM

CHARLOTTE AMALIE, U.S. Virgin Islands (AP) -- Miami Dolphins (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/dolphins) defensive end Jason Taylor (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3968) and two partners were cleared Tuesday in a civil suit of reneging on a deal to buy a private island with sandy shoals and wind-swept grasses.

Taylor, who recently signed a $1.5 million, one-year contract to return to the Dolphins, and the partners were accused in the suit of breach of contract in 2004 to purchase Great St. James island, off St. Thomas' east end.

The partners contended the seller misrepresented several aspects of deal, such as public beach access, so they were entitled not to go through with it.

Taylor told reporters he was pleased with the jury's decision. "I've been coming here for 10, 12 years -- and they've given me a reason to keep coming back here to enjoy it," he said, flashing a grin.

Goodfellas

07-01-2009, 06:18 AM

FOXBORO, Mass. (AP) -- There were 67 young Tedy Bruschis playing football on the New England Patriots (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/patriots) field on Tuesday.

And one 36-year-old Bruschi who may be doing that just one more season.

The boys and girls, aged 7 to 14, all were wearing dark-blue Patriots jerseys with Bruschi's name and number 54 on them, given as part of the linebacker's one-day football camp at Gillette Stadium.
Bruschi spent less time on that field in 2008 than in recent seasons, often coming out on third down. His 14th NFL season may not be much different. Will there be a 15th? He's not even thinking about that.

"After you get past 10 (NFL seasons) I think that's the way you have to do it because you never know what's going to happen within a year. You just don't," he said. "So when the season's over, you sort of reassess things and that's how it's going to go again."

Goodfellas

07-01-2009, 08:36 AM

Longtime former NFL head coach Dennis Green went on Sirius national radio this week and said the following: ``I have a hard time believing that Michael Vick (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/931) is not going to wind up with Bill Parcells, simply because [Parcells] has that creativeness that says no matter what it takes, he's going to find a way to get Michael Vick (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/931)." Be assured, Vick to Miami will never happen. Dolphins (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/15) general manager Jeff Ireland said before the NFL Draft in April that Miami has no interest in Vick ''right now.'' Coach Tony Sparano avoids the subject as if it were a charging pit bull. The inscrutable Parcells has not weighed in, and when I asked Tuesday for a comment from him on what Green said, club vice president Harvey Greene declined to bother Big Tuna on vacation, noting that Parcells would ''look at me like I had three eyes'' if asked to respond to such speculation. think Parcells and Sparano would never admit they are intrigued by the idea of having Vick for the Wildcat -- it's why they spent a second-round draft pick on a poor man's Vick -- but simply think the overriding distraction would be too great.
Miami Herald (http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/columnists/greg_cote/story/1121621.html)

Goodfellas

07-01-2009, 08:37 AM

Denver Broncos (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/7) Pro Bowl wide receiver Brandon Marshall (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2902) said he wanted to be traded more than 18 months ago and said he "hated Denver," according to documents obtained by the CALL7 Investigators. Marshall was arrested on suspicion of DUI on Oct. 22, 2007, and according to the police report, he started verbally attacking the city of Denver and saying he wanted to leave the Broncos (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/7). "I hate Denver. I hope I get traded. I hate this f******* city," an officer wrote in the police report.
KMGH-TV (http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/19905605/detail.html)

Goodfellas

07-01-2009, 08:38 AM

Free agent linebacker Willie McGinest (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/200) continues to eye the Pats (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17) as a possible landing spot, the 15-year veteran linebacker told Albert Breer of sportingnews.com. McGinest, who was part of three Super Bowl championships with the Patriots (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17) before leaving as a free agent for Cleveland in 2006, expressed his desire to play one more season.
Boston Her (http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view/20090701willie_mcginest_considers_return/)

Goodfellas

07-01-2009, 08:38 AM

After fatally striking a pedestrian on the MacArthur Causeway in a March drunk driving accident, Cleveland Browns (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/5) wide receiver Donte' Stallworth also tested positive for marijuana use, law enforcement sources say. Stallworth, 28, is serving one month in jail after pleading guilty last month to DUI manslaughter. Miami-Dade prosecutors say his blood alcohol level was .126, well above the legal limit, when his Bentley hit and killed Mario Reyes, 59, on the morning of March 14. Stallworth's test results, which have yet to be released, showed traces of marijuana, according to sources with knowledge of the results.
Miami Herald (http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/breaking-news/story/1121770.html)

Goodfellas

07-02-2009, 11:43 AM

It may not rival his obsessive quest for revenge against the Packers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/9) as the leading factor driving his likely return to the NFL, but don't overlook the motivating role money is playing on both sides of the Brett Favre (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/133)-Vikings (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/16) courtship. That's right, after the chance to stick it to the green and gold, the pursuit of the long green might just be Favre's second-best reason to un-retire once again and join rival Minnesota. As one prominent Wisconsin-based Favre observer recently told me: "Brett likes his money now. Don't underestimate how hard it would be for him to ever leave $8 million to $10 million -- or whatever the Vikings (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/16) wind up offering him -- on the table. He talks about staying home and riding his lawn mower around, but he likes to get paid.'' nother league source told me that while Favre has long enjoyed his reputation as a guy who plays for "the love of the game,'' money has always been one sure way to get Favre's attention. "His coming back and playing every year is not all about his love of competition,'' the source said.
SI.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/don_banks/07/01/favre/index.html)

Goodfellas

07-02-2009, 11:44 AM

LenDale White has come too far to blow it now -- he promises. Since the end of last season, the Titans (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/10) running back has remained on a strict diet and been loyal to the team's offseason conditioning program. The results have shown up in his shrinking waistline, as well as on the scale -- he weighed in at 229 pounds last week. But with minicamps now a thing of the past and training camp not set to begin until July 31, there's plenty of time for him to balloon, of course. Heaping barbecue plates will certainly be calling his name at Fourth of July cookouts. "It's not going to happen,'' White said.
Tennessean (http://www.tennessean.com/article/20090702/SPORTS01/907020372/1002/SPORTS/LenDale+White+won+t+let+his+fork+get+in+way+of+foo tball)
(http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/view/108979-lendale-promises-to-keep-weight-off)

Goodfellas

07-02-2009, 11:44 AM

While former Patriots (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17) linebacker Willie McGinest (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/200) has made it clear that he would be open to a return to the Patriots (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17) and told Albert Breer of Sporting News that he's talked to Tom Brady (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/863) and Richard Seymour (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/936), nothing has changed since April, when McGinest expressed similar sentiments in an NFL.com chat. A source close to McGinest said today that the veteran linebacker would like to return for a 16th season and maintains a relationship with Patriots (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17) coach Bill Belichick, but there have been no formal talks aimed at bringing McGinest back to New England and no offer from the Patriots (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17). Of course that could change, especially with the Patriots (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/17)' perceived weakness at outside linebacker. McGinest would like to play next season and with more teams switching to the 3-4 he's likely to draw some interest, at which point he'll have to decide if the system and situation suit him well enough to postpone his burgeoning broadcast career.
Boston Globe (http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/2009/07/more_on_mcgines.html)

Goodfellas

07-02-2009, 11:45 AM

Archie Manning, Drew Brees (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/961) and coach Sean Payton are among more than two dozen people with ties to the Saints (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/18) who together put nearly $2 million into an Elmwood film studio that has failed to return their investments as promised. Manning and an attorney for one of the players said Wednesday that they thought they were taking part in a routine tax credit program offered through Louisiana's motion picture studio incentives until they discovered that the studio project never received state authorization for the credits and that their money was at risk. Manning said he had received a telephone call from an FBI agent seeking information about the studio's investment plan.
New Orleans Times-Picayune (http://blog.nola.com/saintsbeat/2009/07/more_than_two_dozen_with_ties.html)

Goodfellas

07-02-2009, 06:09 PM

NEW YORK (AP) -- The NFL suspended Jets linebacker Calvin Pace (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6354) for four games without pay Thursday for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Pace will miss New York's first four games of the season and be eligible to return for the Monday night game at Miami on Oct. 12.
In a statement issued by the Jets, Pace said the ban is a result of him taking an over-the-counter dietary supplement that he was unaware violated the NFL's policy.

Pace, in his second season with the Jets, is eligible to participate in preseason practices and games. The suspension begins Sept. 5 and he can return to practice on Oct. 5, a day after New York's game at New Orleans.

Goodfellas

07-03-2009, 05:53 AM

NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- At least 16 people associated with the New Orleans Saints (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/saints), including coach Sean Payton, quarterback Drew Brees (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5479) and Hall of Famer Archie Manning, are among investors who lost $1.9 million.

Kevin Houser (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5257), cut Monday as the team's long snapper after eight years, said Thursday he and at least 26 others bought what they thought were state film industry tax credits from Louisiana Film Studios in suburban New Orleans. A state official, however, said the studio that offered the credits never applied for them.

The Associated Press obtained a copy of one whose client was approached with the offer. The person requested anonymity because the client had not given approval to discuss it. The proposal, titled Investment/Tax Credit Purchase Agreement, said the studio would repay the investors in the form of "state infrastructure tax credits" no later than March 31.

Goodfellas

07-03-2009, 10:25 AM

Any report of a mass-produced, league-approved Brett Favre Minnesota Vikings jersey is premature, an NFL spokesman said Thursday. "We wait until there is a player contract that has been approved; then we begin mass producing them," league spokesman Brian McCarthy said. "But nothing has transpired from here." First, a signed Favre contract with the Vikings would have to be delivered to the league and players union. Then, the league and union would have to approve any mass-produced official NFL jersey by Reebok. It is believed that Reebok already has prepared screens of a Favre Vikings jersey, just as it would for the teams in the Super Bowl. That way, as soon as the league approves a contract, Reebok immediately can begin filling orders. If Favre does not sign, though, the screen for mass production would be destroyed.
St. Paul Pioneer Press (http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_12741355)

Goodfellas

07-03-2009, 10:26 AM

Although Derrick Brooks was caught off guard when the Buccaneers cut him loose, the former Florida State star says he isn't harboring any bitterness. Brooks' name has been mentioned in speculation with at least two teams: the New York Giants and the New Orleans Saints However, nothing tangible seems to be brewing at the moment.
profootballtalk (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/category/rumor-mill/)

Goodfellas

07-03-2009, 10:32 AM

Brian Urlacher is all about giving second chances. He supported Tank Johnson until Johnson eventually pushed the Bears over the limit. Now the Bears evidently have backed away from another troublesome player, all but ending their pursuit of free agent receiver Plaxico Burress. And Urlacher says he's not really surprised. "I was surprised when I heard they were going after him at all because as a player, I [know there will be] some type of suspension," Urlacher said Thursday during a break at his football camp. The door appears to be closed now as the Bears seem content to enter the training camp with their roster as is.
Chicago Tribune (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-03-bears-chicago-jul03,0,357852.story)

Goodfellas

07-05-2009, 12:44 PM

The Cowboys are playing around with using Marion Barber and Felix Jones -- something it did sparingly last season when the two were healthy -- on the field at the same time. It doesn't have to be in traditional, two-back sets, either; Jones has the flexibility to split out and motion into or out of the backfield.
Pro Football Weekly (http://www.profootballweekly.com/2009/07/03/cowboys-could-feature-two-fine-pairs-on-offense)

Goodfellas

07-05-2009, 12:45 PM

Eric Mangini's biggest gamble is Brian Daboll, the new offensive coordinator. It may be a gutsy choice that pays off, or Daboll could suffer some of the rookie problems that come in the first year of calling plays under pressure. Word from some of the players is Daboll's personality doesn't exactly ooze warmth, but he does know a lot of football.
Cleveland Plain Dealer (http://www.cleveland.com/pluto/blog/index.ssf/2009/07/cleveland_browns_coach_eric_ma.html)

Goodfellas

07-05-2009, 12:45 PM

Bears quarterback Jay Cutler has put off any talk about endorsement deals so he can concentrate on his new teammates and the playbook. There's a perfectly good reason Cutler hasn't been seen or heard doing commercial spots for car manufacturers, hotel chains or anything else. He's not interested, at least not right now.s about endorsement deals so he can concentrate on his new teammates and the playbook. He already is one of the most popular and recognizable athletes in a city with plenty of big-name players. But capitalizing on that popularity commercially isn't an immediate priority for Cutler.
Daily Herald (http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=304796)

Goodfellas

07-06-2009, 08:39 AM

Pro Bowl cornerback Antoine Winfield, known for his knack of anticipating the moves of opposing receivers, didn't envision his current situation. "I didn't expect to be in July without a deal," Winfield said. "Personally, I'm a little disappointed. They consider me a core player, but they're not showing me that." Breaking his months-long silence, Winfield told the Pioneer Press he had been hearing privately the same positive comments team officials had been saying about him publicly.
St. Paul Pioneer Press (http://www.twincities.com/vikings/ci_12759348?nclick_check=1)

Goodfellas

07-06-2009, 02:06 PM

It's disturbing to me how the players of previous generations are being treated. The men that came before us built this game into the multi-billion dollar business it is today. Thousands of players fought for a lot of the things today's players enjoy -- free agency, top-notch medical treatment and million-dollar contracts, to name a few. Some of these guys jeopardized their own careers by going on strike, knowing they wouldn't be the ones to reap the benefits of their personal and professional sacrifices.
SI.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/matt_birk/07/03/birk/index.html)

Goodfellas

07-07-2009, 06:26 AM

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- Hall of Fame offensive lineman Lou Creekmur, who starred on the Detroit Lions (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/lions)' three NFL championship teams of the 1950s, died Sunday. He was 82.

The Lions said Creekmur, in failing health in recent years, died at University Hospital in Tamarac, Florida.

Creekmur played for the Lions from 1950-59, mostly at left tackle. He made eight straight Pro Bowl teams, was picked to the All-NFL team six times and was chosen for the Lions' 75th Anniversary Team in 2008.

Creekmur was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996, joining Lions teammates including Bobby Layne, Joe Schmidt, Doak Walker and Yale Lary.

Goodfellas

07-07-2009, 01:00 PM

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Yahoo Inc. and the NFL Players Association have reached a settlement over use of players' statistics, photos and other data in Yahoo's popular online fantasy football game, but details were not immediately available Tuesday.

Santa Clara, Calif.-based Yahoo sued the NFLPA last month in U.S. District Court in Minnesota, claiming Yahoo shouldn't have to pay royalties to use the data because the information is already publicly available.

Yahoo dropped the lawsuit Monday. Officials from both parties said a settlement was reached.

Yahoo Sports spokeswoman Nicol Addison said Yahoo doesn't discuss litigation and she wouldn't disclose details.

Andrew Feffer, the union's chief operating officer and executive vice president, had no comment beyond saying there was a settlement

chitownmscle

07-07-2009, 02:15 PM

Goodfellas

07-07-2009, 04:03 PM

Run the ball play tough defense. Thats is how the Bears win....

Goodfellas

07-08-2009, 07:54 AM

MIAMI (AP) -- Cleveland Browns (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/browns) wide receiver Donte' Stallworth told police he drank up to four shots of premium tequila while partying with friends at a Miami Beach club but did not feel drunk in the hours before he struck and killed a pedestrian with his car.

In a recorded interview with police, Stallworth said he met fellow Browns receiver Braylon Edwards (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7179) and others at a hotel sometime after 2 a.m. on March 14. Stallworth said he drank some tequila from Edwards' table and later bought some shots himself.

"Three, four at the most," Stallworth said. "I wasn't really counting."
When asked if he was intoxicated, Stallworth said: "No, sir."
Lab tests later showed Stallworth had a blood-alcohol level of .126, above Florida's .08 limit

Goodfellas

07-08-2009, 07:55 AM

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- An appeals court has ordered a new trial for a man convicted of murdering the daughter of former NFL star Fred Biletnikoff.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals made the ruling Tuesday, citing racial discrimination in the trial of Mohammed Haroon Ali.
Ali admitted to strangling his girlfriend, 20-year-old Tracey Biletnikoff, in 1999.

The court says San Mateo County prosecutor Steve Wagstaffe was improperly motivated by race when he dismissed the only two black potential jurors from the jury. Jurors went on to convict Ali of first-degree murder rather than the lesser charge of manslaughter.
Ali is currently serving a 55 years-to-life sentence.

Wagstaffe denied race was a factor in jury selection. He says prosecutors are considering whether to appeal the ruling.

Goodfellas

07-08-2009, 11:01 AM

Barring a change of mind by voters, former Ravens quarterback Steve McNair will not be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In The Baltimore Sun's poll of selectors this week, the three-time Pro Bowl player would fail to gain the 80 percent approval needed for election. Seventeen of the 24 voters who responded to The Sun - the committee has 44 members - said they did not consider McNair a Hall of Fame quarterback because he lacked elite career numbers. McNair, who was shot and killed Saturday, is eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2013.
Baltimore Sun (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bal-sp.mcnairhall08jul08,0,5185707.story)

Goodfellas

07-08-2009, 11:02 AM

Marc Silverman and Jeff Dickerson from ESPN 1000 radio Chicago interviewed Denver Broncos defensive back Champ Bailey on the Waddle & Silvy show Monday. Bailey was asked where he thought new Bears quarterback Jay Cutler ranked among the top quarterbacks in the league. ``Well he's definitely in the top 10 as far as what he's done to this point,'' Bailey said. ``Now where he can be, he can be the best in the game, he has that ability. The guys very smart, very sharp, a good arm; he has all the stuff you'd want. He reminds me of a Marino, Elway type of guy, and he's going to be a great winner for them. It's unfortunate for us that we had to lose a guy like that, but we've got to move on, we've got some quality guys back there that can definitely get the job done so we've just got to go out and handle business as necessary.''
Chicago Tribune (http://blogs.chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/huddleup/2009/07/denver-broncos-champ-bailey-offers-thoughts-on-jay-cutler.html)

Goodfellas

07-08-2009, 11:03 AM

In the weeks following the Falcons trade for 10-time Pro Bowler Tony Gonzalez few details emerged on how he'll integrate into the team's offense. He'll catch passes, but the Falcons built the offense around Pro Bowl running back Michael Turner. "Tony will help our offense in a number of ways," offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey said at the close of June organized team activities. "One thing he's going to do is that he's a productive blocker and that's important in our offense... As successful as he's been as a receiver, he's a good blocker too and he really doesn't get the credit that he should." At 6-foot-5 and 251 pounds, Gonzalez has size to push people around but his ability to shake defenders and soft hands made him the most prolific pass catcher at his position.
atlantafalcons.com (http://www.atlantafalcons.com/News/Articles/2009/07/1-10/Gonzalez_adds_new_dimension_to_Falcons_offense.asp x)

razorsedge

07-08-2009, 05:18 PM

The Bears are still weak at WR but are strong at TE. The big question
is whether Hester will develop into a first rate WR. Remember, Hester
was a DB for a reason.

chitownmscle

07-08-2009, 06:51 PM

Run the ball play tough defense. Thats is how the Bears win....

I know it, which is why it's confusing to have a QB like Jay Cutler on the team. We should of kept Kyle Orton to manage the game and spent some money beefing up the Line on both sides of the ball

chitownmscle

07-08-2009, 06:55 PM

The Bears are still weak at WR but are strong at TE. The big question
is whether Hester will develop into a first rate WR. Remember, Hester
was a DB for a reason.

Hester couldn't even play DB, even when he was in college coaches didn't know how to use him. He is a world class athlete who is trying to play football instead of a football player trying to become a world class athlete

Goodfellas

07-09-2009, 10:11 AM

Jerry Rice said he applauds Brett Favre's desire to continue to play, but he questioned whether it is the best move for the Vikings, saying "this could really backfire." "You have two quarterbacks [Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels] who don't know exactly what is going to happen. All of a sudden these two guys thought they were going to be competing. To be honest with you, I thought Tarvaris would be the starting guy this year. I've watched him off and on. The most important thing for him is the consistency. He shows that at times 'OK, I can do this.' I think he was moving in the right direction, making progress. Now you have this saga, and everybody is sitting back wondering what is going to happen."
Minneapolis Star Tribune (http://blogs.startribune.com/vikingsblog/?p=3021)

Goodfellas

07-09-2009, 10:13 AM

During his final season as a Cowboy, Greg Ellis didn't hide his displeasure about his limited playing time. According to Ellis, one of his prominent former teammates was so frustrated by the veteran's diminished role that he'd hide from coaches during games to force them to put Ellis on the field. "It's a disgrace when DeMarcus Ware comes off the field just so I can get in the game and when the coaches tell him to come on the field, he tries to hide so I can play," Ellis said. Ware, the weak side outside linebacker who threatened the NFL's season sacks record during his third consecutive Pro Bowl campaign, could not immediately be reached for comment. Ware rarely sat out a defensive snap with the exception of late in the Thanksgiving win over the Seahawks, when he suffered a knee injury.
Dallas Morning News (http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/stories/070909dnspowareblog.1fbde6ff.html)

Goodfellas

07-09-2009, 10:13 AM

Latest word is that 40 percent of the Vikings' playbook is being customized for the pending signing of quarterback Brett Favre.
St. Paul Pioneer Press (http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_12789727?nclick_check=1)

Goodfellas

07-09-2009, 10:14 AM

Shaun Alexander isn't currently listed on an NFL roster, but don't read too much into that. The former Alabama star and NFL MVP said this week that he hasn't ruled out a return to professional football. He told the Press-Register that he's had preliminary talks with a few NFL teams, although he did not name them "If it's not the right team, it won't happen," he said.
Mobile Press-Register (http://www.al.com/nfl/mobileregister/index.ssf?/base/sports/1247130954152750.xml&coll=3)

Goodfellas

07-10-2009, 05:44 AM

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- A judge on Thursday blocked the NFL's plan to suspend Minnesota Vikings (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/vikings) linemen Kevin Williams (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6345) and Pat Williams (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4117) for violating the league's anti-doping policy, a move their attorney said should let them start the season with camp beginning in just three weeks.

Hennepin County District Judge Gary Larson granted the players' request for a temporary restraining order that keeps the NFL from suspending them until their case is decided. The order also prohibits the league from subjecting them to extra drug testing.

The Williamses "would suffer a significant loss of playing time" without the restraining order, the judge wrote, and they have shown "some likelihood" of winning their lawsuit

Goodfellas

07-10-2009, 05:45 AM

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (AP) -- Washington Redskins (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/redskins) defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5901) has pleaded no contest to a reckless driving charge in Tennessee and will be on probation for three months.
Court records from show Haynesworth entered his plea Thursday morning in the Nashville suburb of Franklin. He's required to perform 25 hours of community service, make a $5,000 charitable contribution and attend driving school.
The charge against the former Tennessee Titans (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/titans) player stems from a Dec. 13 incident in which prosecutors say Haynesworth tried to pass another driver, who crashed into a concrete median and was badly injured.
Circuit Court Judge Jeff Bivins told Haynesworth that he hopes the process has shown that no one is infallible.

cook

07-10-2009, 08:01 AM

Hester couldn't even play DB, even when he was in college coaches didn't know how to use him. He is a world class athlete who is trying to play football instead of a football player trying to become a world class athlete
This is a very good point. I`ve seen this for years where teams draft sprinters and try to teach them to play football and it almost never works out.Bob Hayes one of the exceptions but that was a long long time ago.

Goodfellas

07-10-2009, 08:16 AM

Renaldo Nehemiah, James Jett. Couldn't translate into success at WR.

Goodfellas

07-10-2009, 08:32 AM

Tony Romo has endured his share of critics this offseason: Terence Newman, Terrell Owens, and uh, Eminem. It's time to add Brandon Jacobs to the list. In an interview with Brandon Tierney on ESPN 1050 in New York, the enjoyably honest Giants running back admitted he's not impressed with the Cowboys starter. "I don't think he's that good a passer, to be honest with you," Jacobs said. Jacobs believes that Romo can't survive as a pure pocket passer. Much of Romo's success comes while improvising on the run. "I'm not a fan of Tony Romo, no. Keep him in the pocket, he's not that good. . . . His luck will be gone sooner or later. If you were to keep Tony Romo in the pocket he's not that effective."
profootballtalk (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/07/09/jacobs-on-romo-i-dont-think-hes-that-good-a-passer/)

Goodfellas

07-10-2009, 08:33 AM

Nothing like staring into infinity, and fearing the plunge into forever. Particularly for a man such as Roger Goodell, who in his private moments might fancy himself among the masters of the universe. "About 3:30 in the morning, at 11,000 feet in the dark, he was about to step across a 200-foot-deep crevasse," said Peter Whittaker, the commish whisperer. "He came to the realization that he wasn't sure he could continue on." On many newbie faces on many previous climbs up Mount Rainier, Whittaker had seen the look. "He was realizing where he was and what he was about to do," he said, "maybe step in a huge hole in the side of a mountain in the dark. So we had a nice discussion." That's how Whittaker describes how he helps turn fear into strength. As commissioner of the most important sports league on the planet, Goodell is unaccustomed to vulnerability. "Scary, I got to tell you," he said, chatting up reporters after a little beer, a little pizza and a lot of relief in the yard of the Basecamp Grill just outside the national park. "When you look down (into the crevasse) and you can't see the bottom . . . and they ask you to step over it. "I said, 'I don't know about this. I gotta think about it.'" Breaking through, Goodell and the rope teams continued at a measured pace onto the summit, arriving not long after sunrise. It was 9 degrees.
Seattle Post-Intelligencer (http://www2.seattlepi.com/articles/407970.html)

Goodfellas

07-10-2009, 08:34 AM

Chad Ochocinco, recently said he planned on using Twitter during games, responded on Twitter to news that NFL rules prohibited the use of cell phones or other handheld devices in the bench area during games. "Damn NFL and these rules, I am going by my own set of rules, I ain't hurting nobody or getting in trouble, I am putting my foot down!!"
Twitter (http://twitter.com/OGOchoCinco)

Goodfellas

07-10-2009, 08:34 AM

In a move that has gone unnoticed, Wes Welker changed agents in March, leaving Vann McElroy for David Dunn of Athletes First, according to the NFL Players Association. It's worth noting that Dunn is also the agent for former Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel. Welker and Cassel are close friends, and Cassel attended Welker's football camp in Oklahoma last month. A source with knowledge of Welker's thinking said the move was not designed at trying to push the Patriots for a new deal.
Boston Globe (http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/2009/07/welker_changes.html?camp=localsearch:on:twit:patri ots)

Goodfellas

07-11-2009, 08:04 AM

Cleveland wide receiver/kick returner Joshua Cribbs does not plan to play a game for the Browns under the terms of his current contract. But Cribbs, who has four years remaining on a six-year, $6.7 million contract, hopes a deal can be worked out by the start of the regular season, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.
NFL.com (http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/07/10/cribbs-not-planning-to-play-for-browns-under-current-contract/)

Goodfellas

07-11-2009, 10:28 AM

Darren McFadden reached a custody and child support deal to pay $8,000 per month to the mother of his 16-month-old son. Kerri Lynette Williams will also receive a $10,000 lump sum payment in child support as compensation for McFadden's signing bonus with the Oakland Raiders, sources familiar with the case confirmed.
Northwest Arkansas Times (http://nwanews.com/nwat/News/78034/)

Goodfellas

07-11-2009, 10:29 AM

The days pass. The phone does not ring. We are two weeks from the start of the opening of training camps, and Derrick Brooks, a linebacker all his life, does not have a job. Like it or not, the lack of interest in Brooks over the past few months has helped to explain why the Bucs turned loose of him in the first place. It may have seemed hard-hearted, but the rest of the NFL seems to agree it was not wrong-headed.
St. Petersburg Times (http://www.tampabay.com/sports/football/bucs/article1017022.ece)

Goodfellas

07-13-2009, 01:27 PM

DALLAS (AP) -- The company that built the Dallas Cowboys (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/cowboys)' indoor practice facility that collapsed this spring is telling its customers that the ill-fated fabric structure got a new roof last year because of team concerns about "aesthetics," not structural problems.

Nathan Stobbe of Summit Structures LLC included the explanation in a letter sent to customers of the Allentown, Pa.-based company. The letter, which was obtained by The Associated Press, seeks to reassure customers that their buildings are safe.

"Please be assured that your buildings have been designed, engineered and manufactured to meet or exceed all local applicable building codes," Stobbe wrote.

The Cowboys' 80,000-square-foot facility collapsed May 2, the fifth Summit building known to have fallen in the last seven years. A member of the team's scouting department was paralyzed from the waist down and 11 other people were injured less severely.

Goodfellas

07-13-2009, 07:37 PM

Tucked away in the final line of a press release announcing the signing of third-round pick DT Roy Miller, the Buccaneers also announced on Monday that veteran QB Brian Griese had been released.

The move comes as no surprise. Griese, 34, has stayed apart from the team during mandatory OTAs and minicamps during the offseason as the writing appeared on the wall regarding his non-future in Tampa. Griese had reportedly asked to be traded or released, while the Bucs appeared to be holding onto him in hopes of getting something in return. Now Griese gets his wish.

The Bucs now appear set to bring four QBs into training camp, with first-round pick Josh Freeman and veteran addition Byron Leftwich joining holdover Luke McCown and Josh Johnson, a second-round pick in 2008.

Griese started five games in his second stint with the Bucs last season, completing 59.8 percent of his passes for 1,073 yards with five touchdowns and seven interceptions. He started four of the first five games — the Bucs went 3-1 — before he was sidelined by an elbow injury, and later started in Week 15 loss to Atlanta.

Goodfellas

07-13-2009, 07:38 PM

Derrick Mason said he is retiring from the NFL

Goodfellas

07-14-2009, 05:38 AM

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) -- The New York Jets (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jets) have released veteran tight end Bubba Franks (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5043).

Franks caught six passes for 47 yards in eight games, including four starts, after signing with the Jets last season. He missed eight games due to a hip injury, and was unable to participate in offseason practices and minicamp because of a knee injury after re-signing with New York.

The move Monday leaves the Jets with Dustin Keller (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8807), who had a promising rookie season, and undrafted free agents J'Nathan Bullock and Jack Simmons as the only tight ends on the roster. James Dearth (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4841), who began his career as a tight end, works exclusively as the team's long snapper.

Franks has 262 receptions for 2,347 yards and 32 touchdowns in nine seasons, including eight with Green Bay.

Goodfellas

07-14-2009, 05:39 AM

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) -- The New England Patriots (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/patriots) have signed second-round draft pick Darius Butler (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9305).

The 5-foot-10, 185-pound cornerback was a first-team All-Big East pick as a senior at Connecticut in 2008. He finished his college career with 125 total tackles and 10 interceptions.
He was taken with the 41st pick overall.

Goodfellas

07-14-2009, 05:40 AM

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Third-round draft pick Roy Miller (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9345) has agreed to a four-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/buccaneers).

The defensive tackle from Texas was the 81st overall selection in the draft. His signing Monday leaves the Bucs with one unsigned pick, first-rounder Josh Freeman (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9281).

To make room on the roster for Miller, backup quarterback Brian Griese (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4322), who started five games last season, was released. The 34-year-old has thrown for 19,440 yards, 119 touchdowns and 99 interceptions in 11 seasons with Denver, Miami, Chicago and Tampa Bay.

Miller started 19 of 49 games he appeared in at Texas, finishing his career for the Longhorns with 138 tackles and 10 sacks.

cook

07-14-2009, 08:02 AM

Hey I heard this morning Tony Romo and Jessica Simpson broke up.She just bought him a big ass boat about a month ago I hope he`s smart enough to not give it back.

Goodfellas

07-14-2009, 08:28 AM

I was gonna post but I thought you guys would pick on me. He needs to concentrate 100% on football. IF he doesnt produce this year..... He got his wish no TO so it is now or never for him IMO. And I do not think Roy williams can be the savior. The only plus for him is Jones and Barber in the backfield and of course Witten.

cook

07-14-2009, 11:09 AM

Goodfellas

07-14-2009, 04:28 PM

Niners head coach Mike Singletary joined the show to talk about

-- Singletary explained how he almost made Michael Crabtree cry. Singletary said that he saw Crabtree doing a jog-through on the practice field. Singletary said he hadn't heard that Crabtree was medically clear, so he went over and told Crabtree to get on the sideline and sit until he gets full clearance. Singletary said Crabtree got "teary-eyed" because he wanted to be out there.

"It impressed me because it showed he wanted to be with the team," Singletary said.

-- Singletary said that he isn't just a motivator and a yeller.
"I think that the No. 1 thing that I am about is relationships," Singletary said. "I'm all about relationships. ... You can have all types of styles, but if you don't have a relationship with those players, it's not going to work."

-- Singletary said that he doesn't have different rules for different players. And Singletary said that Mike Ditka didn't give different players different treatment. Singletary said that Jim McMahon got the same treatment ... he just reacted differently.

Singletary made it clear, however, he loved playing with McMahon and he was good for that team.

"I think he's the only quarterback that could play for Coach Ditka," Singletary said.

-- Singletary said that when he was a freshman at Baylor, the philosophy was no water. But that changed during his college career and his coach started using Gatorade and water.

-- Dan asked Singletary the best piece of advice he ever got. Singletary pointed immediately to Bill Walsh, who taught him to have good people around him and to be himself

Goodfellas

07-16-2009, 06:14 AM

ST. LOUIS (AP) -- The St. Louis Rams and safety Oshiomogho Atogwe (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7242) have agreed to a one-year contract.

Terms were not disclosed Wednesday. The 28-year-old Atogwe was designated as a non-exclusive franchise player in February.

Atogwe led the NFL with eight interceptions in 2007. Last season, he started all 16 games at free safety for the third straight season and had a career-high 109 tackles. He also led St. Louis with five interceptions, eight forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries

Goodfellas

07-16-2009, 06:17 AM

CLEVELAND (AP) -- The Cleveland Browns (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/browns) have signed three draft picks, cornerbacks Don Carey (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9441) and Coye Francies (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9455) and running back James Davis (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9459).

The signings were announced by the team Wednesday. No contract terms were disclosed.

Carey was picked out of Norfolk State, Francies played at San Jose State and Oregon State and Davis was a four-year letterman at Clemson.

The Browns also waived linebacker Jonathan Foster, defensive back Nate Ness and running back Marcus Thomas (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8375).

Goodfellas

07-16-2009, 10:02 AM

What a brilliant history - the Super Bowl championships, the Hall of Fame players, the unforgettable moments and this 2009 edition of the San Francisco 49ers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/25) wants to emulate it all. But it's not their own history the current crew wants to replicate - it's the Dallas Cowboys (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/6) of early the 1990's that the 49ers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/25) want to become. From a desire to plant a new stadium outside of the team's namesake to recreating the bludgeoning running game, San Francisco wants to be Dallas. The running game is the best example. This season, the 49ers (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/25) go in with a simplified running attack that they want to build on a relatively small sample of inside running plays. Zone blocking will be a large component of the scheme. Frank Gore (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2294) will play the part of Emmitt Smith and the two backs are similar with their forward body leans, and their one-cut-and-go tendencies. Neither is considered particularly fast, but both are tough inside runners with terrific vision.
San Francisco Chronicle (http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/ninerinsider/detail?&entry_id=43624)

Goodfellas

07-16-2009, 10:03 AM

Slain former Titans (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/10) quarterback Steve McNair (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/241)'s widow has filed an emergency petition in a Nashville court declaring that he left no will and asking that she be allowed to oversee his estate. She said in court documents that she did not know her late husband's worth, but documents contend it is "of sufficient size to be administered." Mechelle McNair listed herself and her two sons, Tyler and Trenton McNair, as the heirs to the estate. McNair also has two other sons from a previous relationship.
Tennessean (http://www.tennessean.com/article/20090716/SPORTS01/907160358/1002/SPORTS/Steve+McNair+s+widow+says+he+left+no+will)

Goodfellas

07-16-2009, 10:03 AM

You can follow Matt Hasselbeck (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/543) on Twitter at MatthewHass008. Turns out that Hasselbeck has an offseason conditioning routine that's all wet. He's been swimming across the Columbia River, he said to 710 ESPN, the local affiliate. The Columbia River, that's just cold, right? Yes indeed. "It's not warm," Hasselbeck said. "It's not warm."
Seattle Times (http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/seahawksblog/2009477266_hasselbeckreadytosinkorswim.html)

Goodfellas

07-16-2009, 10:04 AM

The Ravens (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/31) haven't officially recognized Derek Mason's retirement, and that's why teammates will try to change the 12-year veteran's mind. There has been speculation that the Ravens (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/31) are looking again at Brandon Marshall (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/2902), the disgruntled wide receiver who has requested a trade from the Denver Broncos (http://www.fannation.com/tags/show_tag/7).
Baltimore Sun (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bal-sp.mason15jul15,0,4309438.story)

Goodfellas

07-17-2009, 05:38 AM

HOUSTON (AP) -- Prosecutors say they expect to refile a felony drug charge against Green Bay Packers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/packers) defensive lineman Johnny Jolly Jr. after dropping the case.

The 26-year-old had been set for trial Friday on the drug possession charge. He was arrested last July in Houston for allegedly having at least 200 grams of codeine, which is a controlled substance.
Harris County District Attorney's Office spokeswoman Donna Hawkins says the case was dismissed Thursday so Houston Police Department lab technicians could become proficient with a new piece of equipment that measures codeine in a submitted sample and learn to testify about its results.

Prosecutors expect to refile the case within three months.
Jolly's attorney didn't immediately return a phone call Thursday.

Goodfellas

07-17-2009, 08:02 PM

SYCAMORE, Ill. (AP) -- Philadelphia Eagles (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/eagles) cornerback Jack Ikegwuonu (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8921) has been acquitted of burglary charges in Illinois.
A DeKalb County judge acquitted Ikegwuonu on Friday of residential burglary and criminal trespassing.

Ikegwuonu and his twin brother, Bill, were arrested in November 2006. They were accused of trying to steal a video game system from an apartment in the city of DeKalb.

Bill Ikegwuonu played for Northern Illinois' football team at the time. He was acquitted of similar charges in April.

Jack Ikegwuonu was playing for Wisconsin when he was arrested. He was drafted by the Eagles last year but didn't play all season because of reconstructive knee surgery.

Goodfellas

07-22-2009, 06:08 AM

ATLANTA (AP) -- The Atlanta Falcons (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/falcons) may be looking for offensive line depth after veteran Jeremy Newberry (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4317), signed by the team in June, retired.

Newberry's agent, Doug Hendrickson, told The Associated Press on Tuesday the former longtime starting center for the San Francisco 49ers hurt his left knee.

Hendrickson said Newberry's knee "just kind of went out on him recently when he was pushing hard to get ready for training camp."
The 33-year-old Newberry was expected to provide depth at guard and center.

Newberry started three games for San Diego last season after starting each of his 14 games with Oakland in 2007.

Newberry's retirement was first reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Goodfellas

07-22-2009, 06:29 PM

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- The Carolina Panthers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/panthers) have signed fifth-round pick Duke Robinson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9427).

The guard from Oklahoma inked a four-year deal Wednesday that includes a signing bonus of about $172,000. He's expected to provide needed depth on the offensive line after Carolina released Jeremy Bridges (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6521) and lost Geoff Hangartner (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7345) and Frank Omiyale (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7339) in free agency.

Robinson is the fourth draft pick to come to terms. The Panthers must still sign second-rounders Everette Brown (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9307) and Sherrod Martin (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9323) and third-round choice Corvey Irvin (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9357).

Goodfellas

07-22-2009, 06:30 PM

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- The Green Bay Packers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/packers) have signed fifth-round fullback Quinn Johnson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9409), leaving them only two first-round draft picks to sign before training camp.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed Wednesday. Johnson appeared in 40 career games at Louisiana State. Even before his first full-contact practice, Johnson had impressed Packers coaches with his potential for physical play.

First-rounders B.J. Raji and Clay Matthews (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9290) III have yet to sign with the team. The Packers' first training camp practice is Aug. 1.
The Packers also released tight end Carson Butler

Goodfellas

07-22-2009, 08:31 PM

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) -- Baltimore Ravens (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/ravens) coach John Harbaugh is "optimistic and hopeful" that wide receiver Derrick Mason (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3988) will come out of retirement and rejoin the team during training camp.
Mason surprised the Ravens on July 13 by abruptly ending his 12-year NFL career. The 35-year-old Mason led Baltimore in catches and yards receiving last year, but said he was "ready to see what else life has to offer."

After speaking with Mason on the phone Tuesday night, Harbaugh maintained hope that Mason would have a change of heart soon after the start of training camp next week.

"I think it's real honorable what he's doing in the sense that it would be easy for a guy to just come in and go through the motions. Derrick does not want to go through the motions," Harbaugh said Wednesday. "He wants to make sure he's in the right frame of mind to compete at the level he's competed at his whole career, which is a warrior-type level

Shawn Bellon

07-23-2009, 01:59 PM

Great thread!

Roots

07-23-2009, 02:40 PM

Goodfellas

07-23-2009, 06:21 PM

They seem confident they can talk him out of it. Good player. Consistent.

Goodfellas

07-23-2009, 06:37 PM

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) -- Antoine Winfield (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4672) watched last season as veterans Darren Sharper (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3921) and Matt Birk (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4402) played out the final year of their contracts and then left Minnesota without extensions. He wondered if he was next.

The Vikings answered emphatically on Thursday, signing the Pro Bowl cornerback to a five-year deal that includes $16 million in guaranteed money.

"It feels great," Winfield said. "I've got no worries. I'm excited."
Winfield was heading into the final year of his contract and the sometimes contentious negotiations broke off at one point during the summer. It was starting to look a lot like the experiences of Sharper, who left to sign with the New Orleans Saints (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/saints), and Birk, who declined an offer from the Vikings to head to Baltimore.

Goodfellas

07-24-2009, 07:03 AM

FOXBORO, Mass. (AP) -- The New England Patriots (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/patriots) have signed six draft picks, including defensive lineman Ron Brace (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9304) and offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9322), two of the team's four second-round selections.

The 6-foot-3, 330-pound Brace, from Boston College, could provide insurance if the Pats do not re-sign nose tackle Vince Wilfork (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6780), whose contract expires after the season.
Vollmer (6-8, 315) grew up in Germany and didn't play football until he was 14.

The Patriots also announced the signings of third-round pick Brandon Tate (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9347), a receiver from North Carolina; fifth-round pick offensive lineman George Bussey (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9434); sixth-round pick defensive lineman Myron Pryor (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9471); and seventh-round pick Julian Edelman (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9496), who played quarterback at Kent State but will move to receiver.

Goodfellas

07-24-2009, 07:04 AM

NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- A New Orleans Saints (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/saints) linebacker and two former players sued a film studio Thursday to try to get their money back from investments they say were never made.

Current Saints linebacker Scott Shanle (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6587), former punter Mitch Berger (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/2861) and recently cut Saints long snapper Kevin Houser (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5257) are seeking the return of $468,750 invested with the studio's head, Wayne H. Read. Read was not named personally in the petition. They filed an involuntary bankruptcy petition against Louisiana Film Studios LLC, located in a New Orleans suburb.

Coach Sean Payton, quarterback Drew Brees (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5479) and Hall of Famer Archie Manning were among 27 people who bought what they thought were state film industry tax credits that promised a projected return of $1.33 for each dollar invested. A state official, however, said the studio never applied for them. The investments, which totaled $1.9 million, were due to be paid on March 31.

Also joining the lawsuit was a construction company half-owned by Houser's wife, claiming that the studio owes it $681,418 for work done on a renovated grocery warehouse that Louisiana Film Studios leases. Two other investors in the tax credits made claims totaling $134,000.

Goodfellas

07-24-2009, 04:26 PM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- Rookie running back Rashad Jennings (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9514) has signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jaguars), who took him in the seventh round of the April draft.

The signing of Jennings, announced Friday, leaves five of the Jaguars' nine picks unsigned. The first training camp practice is Aug. 3.

Jennings was a three-year starter at Liberty after transferring from Pittsburgh. At Liberty he set Big South Conference records for rushing yards (3,633), touchdowns (42) and 100-yard rushing games (22).

Goodfellas

07-24-2009, 07:17 PM

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Sean McDermott (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5735) has replaced Jim Johnson as the Philadelphia Eagles (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/eagles) defensive coordinator, two days before the team opens training camp.

The 68-year-old Johnson took an indefinite leave of absence in May to continue treatment for a cancerous tumor on his spine. It's uncertain whether he'll return to the team in any capacity.

"First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with Jim Johnson and his family as they battle through this difficult time in his cancer treatments," Eagles coach Andy Reid said Friday. "I have been in constant communication with Jim and his wife throughout this offseason and they are thankful for all the support they have received from the Eagles organization, the fans and the entire NFL community."

McDermott, 35, will be introduced at a news conference on Saturday afternoon. He ran the defense in Johnson's absence after serving as secondary coach last year.

McDermott originally joined the Eagles in 1998 as a scouting administrative coordinator, and has served in various roles as an assistant on the defensive staff

Goodfellas

07-25-2009, 03:28 PM

PITTSFORD, N.Y. (AP) -- Linebacker John DiGiorgio (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8032) was waived by the Buffalo Bills (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/bills) on Saturday for failing his physical after having season-ending surgery to repair bone damage in his right knee.
The move was announced after DiGiorgio was absent from practice as the Bills opened training camp in suburban Rochester.

Though the team did not provide any more details, the player's agent, Chris Murray, told The Associated Press that his client had microfracture knee surgery two weeks ago in Vail, Colo. Murray said the surgery went well, but that DiGiorgio isn't expected to be fully healthy until January

Goodfellas

07-26-2009, 04:46 AM

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Willie McGinest (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/2743) will consider playing another NFL season if he receives an interesting offer, and he would prefer to get it from the New England Patriots (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/patriots).

The 37-year-old McGinest, the two-time Pro Bowl linebacker who won three Super Bowls with New England, acknowledged his interest Saturday during the Hollywood Stars celebrity softball game at Dodger Stadium.

"I do want to play, but only if the situation is right," said McGinest, a Long Beach native who played at USC. "If not, I'm probably retired."
McGinest, whose 16 postseason sacks are the most in NFL history, played the past three seasons in Cleveland after 12 years with the Patriots, who are thought to be thin at outside linebacker heading into training camp. McGinest had 56 tackles in 14 games with the Browns last season, his best performance since his final year in New England.

"There is a possibility," McGinest said. "I've talked to (coach Bill) Belichick a few times. I'm not excited just to jump into camp, but we'll see what happens."

Goodfellas

07-26-2009, 04:48 AM

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- The Pittsburgh Steelers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/steelers) have agreed to terms on a five-year contract with first-round draft choice Ziggy Hood.
The defensive lineman from Missouri was drafted 32nd overall by the defending Super Bowl champions. Financial terms were not disclosed on the deal announced Saturday.

The Steelers open training camp on Friday.

Hood becomes the fourth first-round pick to agree to a contract, joining Detroit's Matthew Stafford (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9265), the New York Jets (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jets)' Mark Sanchez (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9269) and Cleveland's Alex Mack (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9285)

Goodfellas

07-26-2009, 04:49 AM

CLEVELAND (AP) -- The Cleveland Browns (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/browns) signed first-round draft pick Alex Mack (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9285) on Saturday.

Mack, an All-American from California who also can play guard, was on the practice field just hours after signing with other rookies called in early by new coach Eric Mangini.

The 6-foot-4, 311-pound Mack won the Draddy Trophy, which is given to college football's top scholar-athlete, and was a two-time finalist for the Rimington Trophy, given to the nation's top center.
Mack worked out briefly at guard at the Senior Bowl but lined up only at center at Browns minicamps, eventually playing center with the first team. For the upcoming season he could replace starter Hank Fraley (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5363), a nine-year veteran who struggled last season in Cleveland's 31st-ranked offense.

As a senior in 2008, Mack didn't allow any sacks or quarterback pressures on 397 pass plays. He was the Pac-10's Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2008 and was a four-time league academic honor roll honoree.

The Browns were one of the NFL's biggest disappointment last year. They finished 4-12 after a surprising 10-6 finish the year before.

Goodfellas

07-26-2009, 04:50 AM

AMBRIDGE, Pa. (AP) -- Ben Roethlisberger (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6770) enjoyed a warm reception from Pittsburgh Steelers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/steelers) fans in his first public appearance since being named in a civil lawsuit by a woman who alleges he sexually assaulted her.

Filming the first episode of Shaquille O'Neal's reality TV show, Roethlisberger kept things lighthearted and didn't discuss the allegations.

The two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback appeared loose and playful at a suburban Pittsburgh high school field Friday night in front of an estimated 5,000 that never showed signs of turning on him after the accusations against him that came out earlier this week.

Goodfellas

07-26-2009, 08:27 PM

PITTSFORD, N.Y. (AP) -- Buffalo Bills (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/bills) second-round pick Andy Levitre (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9315) signed a four-year contract on Sunday, leaving the team with three unsigned rookies after two days of training camp.

The offensive guard's agent Leo Goeas told The Associated Press that his client had signed the deal at the team's headquarters in Orchard Park, and was traveling to report to camp in suburban Rochester. He missed only four practices after the Bills opened camp on Saturday.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it's expected to be worth about $3.5 million.

The Bills confirmed the signing in a release

Goodfellas

07-27-2009, 05:47 AM

BALTIMORE (AP) -- Ravens wide receiver Drew Bennett (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5798) announced his retirement Sunday night, just two days after signing with Baltimore in an effort to rekindle his NFL career.

Bennett agreed to a one-year deal after a tryout Friday. But he aggravated an old knee injury during the workout, and after returning home to Nashville, Tenn., the 30-year-old receiver decided to quit.
"A previous knee injury flared up, making me realize that I am unable to play another NFL season," Bennett said in statement distributed by his agent, Steve Caric. "Therefore, I have decided to retire from the National Football League."

Bennett's decision comes after Derrick Mason (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3988) surprised the Ravens by announcing his retirement on July 13. Although Mason has left open the possibility of returning, Baltimore is currently very slim at the wide receiver position.

The 6-foot-5 Bennett played one game with St. Louis last year because of a foot injury. Over an eight-year career, he has 307 catches for 4,412 yards.

Goodfellas

07-28-2009, 06:01 AM

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- The Carolina Panthers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/panthers) have reached terms with second-round pick Everette Brown (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9307) and third-round choice Corvey Irvin (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9357).
The deals left the Panthers on Monday with only one unsigned rookie: second-rounder Sherrod Martin (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9323). The team reports to training camp Sunday.

Carolina created roster space by waiving defensive tackle Justin Kershaw and safety Anthony Scirrotto.

Brown agreed to a four-year, $4.3 million deal that includes nearly $2.7 million in guaranteed money. The ex-Florida State defensive end is expected to provide an immediate boost to Carolina's pass rush.
Irvin signed a four-year, $2.42 million deal that includes a $670,000 signing bonus. The Georgia product is expected to back up starting defensive tackles Maake Kemoeatu (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6163) and Damione Lewis (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5459).

Goodfellas

07-28-2009, 06:02 AM

FOXBORO, Mass. (AP) -- The New England Patriots (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/patriots) signed safety Patrick Chung (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9298), their top draft pick, leaving two of their 12 choices without agreements.

Chung, out of Oregon, was one of four players drafted in the second round by the Patriots, who traded their first-round pick. He was taken with the 34th pick overall, obtained from the Kansas City Chiefs (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/chiefs) for quarterback Matt Cassel (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7406) and linebacker Mike Vrabel (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3982).

Details of the contract were not disclosed. The Patriots other three second-round picks signed four-year deals. They are nose tackle Ron Brace (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9304) of Boston College, cornerback Darius Butler (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9305) of Connecticut and offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9322) of Houston.

The Patriots released safety Antwain Spann (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7742), a three-year veteran.
Their only draft picks without agreements are third-rounder Tyrone McKenzie (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9361), a linebacker from South Florida, and sixth-rounder Jake Ingram (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9462), a long snapper from Hawaii. McKenzie tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in rookie minicamp in May and is out for the season.
Chung started the most games of any defensive player in his school's history. His 51 consecutive starts are tied for the Oregon record for players at any position.

The Patriots hold their first full-squad training camp practices Thursday. Rookies reported Sunday.

Spann played in 19 regular-season and three postseason games for the Patriots the past three seasons.

Goodfellas

07-28-2009, 06:03 AM

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- When Percy Harvin (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9286) failed a drug test at the scouting combine in February, he wasn't sure where to turn.
His NFL stock had just taken a serious hit and Harvin, the ultra-talented, do-everything athlete out of Florida was wondering just how to get himself out of this mess.

Harvin first turned to his family for support as questions about his character and his long-term viability in the league persisted. Then he looked to the man representing him, Joel Segal, who has experience handling difficult situations.

Segal helped Harvin attack the adversity head-on, and the receiver's ability to bluntly, and convincingly, accept responsibility for the positive marijuana test while also promising that his troubles were behind him ultimately kept him in the first round.

"That's going to be a tough situation for anybody," Segal told The Associated Press in a phone interview. "Especially for a young man who is in a situation where this is his dream. Now there's a speed bump."
Thanks in large part to the way Harvin handled the test, it proved to be just that -- a speed bump rather than a stop sign. The Minnesota Vikings (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/vikings) were comfortable enough to select him with the 22nd pick in the first round, putting Harvin in position to sign a multimillion-dollar contract that Segal is expected to begin negotiating with the Vikings in earnest this week.

Goodfellas

07-28-2009, 06:04 AM

The Minnesota Vikings (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/vikings) have waived cornerback Charles Gordon (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8117).
The team announced the move Monday. Gordon was entering his fourth season undrafted out of Kansas. He had worked his way up to be the nickel back and primary punt returner, until suffering a severe leg injury last November.

Gordon needed surgery after he was tackled at the end of a return in a game against Green Bay. He broke the fibula bone near his ankle and sustained ligament damage.

The Vikings have signed starters Cedric Griffin (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7797) and Antoine Winfield (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4672) to contract extensions, and they drafted another cornerback, Asher Allen (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9350), in the third round. With training camp set to begin Friday, they've got eight players at the position

Goodfellas

07-28-2009, 06:05 AM

PITTSFORD, N.Y. (AP) -- Buffalo Bills (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/bills) receiver Steve Johnson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9001) is out indefinitely with an injury to his rib cartilage.

Coach Dick Jauron said Monday that Johnson's ribs are very sore a day after the player was hurt in practice during training camp.

The injury is a setback to the second-year player, who was expected to compete for the team's fifth receiver spot. Johnson showed promise at the end of his rookie season, in which the seventh-round draft pick out of Kentucky finished with 10 catches for 102 yards and two touchdowns in 10 games, including one start.

Reserve defensive end Copeland Bryan (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8070) limped off the field during practice with a left hamstring injury. Jauron said it was too early to determine the severity of the injury.

Goodfellas

07-28-2009, 06:06 AM

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) -- The San Francisco 49ers have signed running back Glen Coffee (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9338), their third-round draft pick, to a four-year contract.
The deal was announced by the team Monday night.

The 6-foot, 209-pound Coffee, out of Alabama, is expected to be Frank Gore (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7241)'s backup this season in coach Mike Singletary's power running offense. Coffee ran for 1,383 yards and 10 touchdowns last season for the Crimson Tide. He finished his collegiate career with 2,107 yards on 410 carries with 14 TDs, and 42 catches for 351 yards and two touchdowns.
First-round pick wide receiver Michael Crabtree (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9274) remains San Francisco's last unsigned draft pick. He could hold out when the team hold its first training camp practice Saturday

Goodfellas

07-29-2009, 07:02 AM

CHICAGO (AP) -- Chicago Bears (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/bears) cornerback Charles Tillman (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6371) is promising to be ready for the season despite his recent back surgery.
Tillman promised on the team's Web site Tuesday that he'll be fine, saying: "When I panic, then you can panic. But I'm not panicking, so we're good."

The season opens Sept. 13 in Green Bay, and the Bears have high expectations after acquiring quarterback Jay Cutler (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7760) in a trade with Denver. A healthy defense will go a long way toward determining whether they get back to the playoffs for the first time since they made the 2006 Super Bowl.

Tillman missed parts of training camp last year while his infant daughter recovered from a heart transplant. But he finished with 91 tackles and three interceptions while leading the team with four forced fumbles.

Goodfellas

07-29-2009, 07:06 AM

ASHBURN, Va. (AP) -- The Washington Redskins (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/redskins) have signed defensive end Jeremy Jarmon, who they chose in the third round of the NFL supplemental draft.

The 6-foot-3, 277-pound Jarmon was the only supplemental pick by any team.

He was declared ineligible for his senior season at Kentucky by the NCAA because he tested positive for a banned substance.
Jarmon finished third in Kentucky history with 171/2 sacks

Goodfellas

07-29-2009, 02:39 PM

MIAMI (AP) -- Prosecutors have dropped felony charges against Miami Dolphins (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/dolphins) defensive end Randy Starks (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6830) stemming from a May traffic altercation with police.

Court records show charges of aggravated battery were reduced Tuesday to the misdemeanor of culpable negligence. The original charge carried a possible prison sentence of five years, but misdemeanors usually do not result in jail time.

Miami Beach police say Starks was driving a large truck packed with people along Ocean Drive last Memorial Day weekend when an officer walked up alongside. Starks allegedly swerved slightly, striking the officer and pinning him against another vehicle. The officer was not hurt.
Starks' attorney did not immediately respond to an e-mail seeking comment Wednesday

Goodfellas

07-29-2009, 02:40 PM

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) -- The Minnesota Vikings (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/vikings) have signed second-round draft pick Phil Loadholt.

The team announced the move on Wednesday, ensuring the right tackle will report to training camp on time. Players are required to report by Thursday and the first practice is Friday.

The 6-foot-8, 343-pound former Oklahoma Sooner is expected to challenge for the starting job at right tackle. Ryan Cook (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7800) and Artis Hicks (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6235) both struggled at that spot last season.

The Vikings have one final draft pick who remains unsigned: first-round receiver Percy Harvin (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9286) out of Florida.

Goodfellas

07-29-2009, 02:40 PM

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- The Tennessee Titans (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/titans) have agreed to contract terms with their second-round draft pick, defensive tackle Sen'Derrick Marks.

Marks was the 62nd pick overall out of Auburn. He started 37 of 40 games during his three seasons and had 71/2 sacks and 30 tackles for losses.
After the announcement of Marks' deal on Wednesday the Titans have only one unsigned member of their 11-player draft class -- wide receiver Kenny Britt (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9294). He was the 30th pick overall out of Rutgers.

The Titans waived offensive lineman Ryan Schmidt and defensive tackle Derrick Jones (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8726) to reduce the roster to 80 players for thursday with their first practice Friday

Goodfellas

07-29-2009, 02:41 PM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- An attorney for former Jacksonville Jaguars (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jaguars) receiver Jimmy Smith (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/2017) says the state has made an offer to his client on felony drug charges.

Attorney Brian Coughlin told Circuit Court Judge Linda McCallum on Wednesday a decision should be made before an Aug. 17 court hearing. Coughlin refused to disclose the terms of the offer and whether it includes jail time.

The 40-year-old Smith did not appear at the hearing. He is charged with possession of cocaine,

marijuana and drug paraphernalia and driving with a suspended license.
Another hearing was scheduled Wednesday to dispose of 2008 charges of driving under the influence, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia and transporting an open container of alcohol

Goodfellas

07-29-2009, 02:42 PM

PITTSFORD, N.Y. (AP) -- The Buffalo Bills (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/bills) have signed free agent Shaine Smith (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8747) to bolster their injury-depleted group of receivers in training camp.
Listed at 6 feet 2 and 189 pounds, Smith has yet to play in the NFL, but spent part of the 2007 season on the New York Jets (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jets)' practice squad. He was originally signed by St. Louis that year as an undrafted rookie free agent out of Hofstra.

The Bills are down four receivers since opening camp in suburban Rochester on Saturday.

Steve Johnson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9001) is out indefinitely with an injury to his rib cartilage, while P.K. Sam injured his quadriceps in practice on Tuesday night. James Hardy (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8818) and C.J. Hawthorne have been unable to practice since opening camp on the active/physically-unable-to-perform list.

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 06:42 AM

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) -- Disgruntled wide receiver Anquan Boldin (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6390) has reported for training camp with the Arizona Cardinals (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/cardinals), a little late only because he turned around to help a couple of teammates who had car trouble.

Boldin declined to talk to reporters after checking in at the Northern Arizona University dorms with the reigning NFC champions on Wednesday.
Upset because he has yet to get a new contract, Boldin sat out minicamp with what he said was a sore hamstring, then did not participate in the voluntary summer workouts.

Arizona first-round draft pick Beanie Wells was a no-show. The running back from Ohio State is the only Cardinals' pick from this year's draft yet to reach a contract agreement. Wells also missed the voluntary workouts because of an NFL rule that prohibited his participation because his college session had not ended

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 06:43 AM

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Pittsburgh Steelers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/steelers) tight end Heath Miller (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7206) has agreed to a six-year contract that runs through the 2014 season.
Miller, one of the top blockers among NFL tight ends, had one season remaining on the five-year contract he signed after being Pittsburgh's first-round draft pick in 2005.

Miller, 26, has played on two Super Bowl-winning teams in his first four NFL seasons. He caught 48 passes for 514 yards and three touchdowns last season after catching 47 passes in 2007.

The 6-foot-5, 256-pound Miller has 168 catches for 1,932 yards, an 11.5 yards per reception average and 21 touchdowns during his career. He also has three touchdown catches in the playoffs.

The Steelers chose to sign Miller before training camp begins Friday instead of waiting to see if there will be a new NFL labor agreement.
If there is no new deal, and 2010 is an uncapped season, the Steelers could have retained Miller by making him a tender offer after this season, but they chose instead to negotiate a new contract

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 06:44 AM

MANKATO, Minn. (AP) -- Once again, Brett Favre (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/1025) ran away from a Minnesota rush.

Brad Childress insisted the chase is over.

The Vikings coach said Wednesday evening he's "more than content" with a competition between Tarvaris Jackson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7813) and Sage Rosenfels (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5557) for the job the team tried so hard to give to Favre, only to find out the NFL's all-time leading passer decided to remain retired.

"He's gone his way, and we've gone our way," Childress said after meeting with both Jackson and Rosenfels earlier in the day.

Childress described their demeanor as excited, proudly noting Jackson was the first player to report to the residence hall on the Minnesota State University campus, where the Vikings have held training camp for 43 years.

Rosenfels was grateful for some resolution, but said he wasn't "at all" insulted by his teammates' overt interest in acquiring the famously waffling quarterback.

"This is the NFL. I'm a pro. They're pros. I think these guys are going to have the utmost confidence in me, and I have a lot of confidence in them," Rosenfels said, as players trickled into the parking lot with pillows and luggage in tow. "It's time to go to work."

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 06:47 AM

WESTMINSTER, Md. (AP) -- The Baltimore Ravens (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/ravens) have reached a five-year deal with rookie offensive tackle Michael Oher (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9287).

The deal reached Wednesday ends a two-day holdout by Oher, the No. 23 pick in this year's NFL draft. The contractis expected to exceed the five-year, $12.55 million deal that last year's pick at Oher's slot -- Pittsburgh Steelers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/steelers) running back Rashard Mendenhall (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8800) -- signed last summer.

Oher, projected to start at right tackle, is the last rookie of the Ravens' draft class this year to agree to terms.

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 07:06 PM

METAIRIE, La. (AP) -- The New Orleans Saints (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/saints) have agreed to contract terms with draft picks Chip Vaughn (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9380) and Thomas Morstead (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9428).
The agreement on Thursday came as players reported to training camp for conditioning tests and meetings.

Vaughn, a safety from Wake Forest, was one of New Orleans' two fourth-round draft choices. Morstead, a punter from Southern Methodist, was taken in the fifth round after the Saints traded up to take him by offering their seventh round pick in 2009 and fifth-rounder in 2010 to Philadelphia.

The Saints were still trying to sign first-round draft pick Malcolm Jenkins (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9278), a cornerback out of Ohio State who was selected 14th overall. Jenkins was not expected to begin practicing until he has completed work on his contract.

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 07:06 PM

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -- The New York Giants (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/giants) have signed second-round draft picks Clint Sintim (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9309) and William Beatty (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9324).
The Thursday signings leave only the Giants' top pick, Hakeem Nicks (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9293), unsigned.

Contract terms were not immediately available for Sintim, a linebacker from Virginia who was the 45th pick overall, and Beatty, an offensive tackle from Connecticut who was the 60th pick.

The Giants, who report to training camp on Sunday, waived receiver Micah Rucker (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9164) and linebacker Kelvin Smith (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8473) to make room on their roster for Sintim and Beatty.

Nicks, a receiver from North Carolina, was the 29th pick overall

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 07:07 PM

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- The Detroit Lions (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/lions) have signed second-round pick Louis Delmas (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9297) to a four-year contract.

The team announced the deal Thursday, but did not disclose terms.
Delmas, a safety, was selected with the first pick in the second round (33rd overall) out of Western Michigan. In 2008, Delmas led the Broncos with a career-high 111 tackles (61 solo). He also had four interceptions, returning one for a touchdown.

Also, the Lions released defensive end Eric Hicks (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4535)

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 07:08 PM

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- The Indianapolis Colts (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/colts) have signed three more draft picks: punter-placekicker Pat McAfee (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9486), defensive tackle Terrance Taylor (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9400) and guard Jaimie Thomas (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9500).

Indy signed third-round pick Jerraud Powers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9356), a cornerback, on Tuesday.
Powers, Taylor and Thomas all signed four-year contracts. McAfee's agent would not confirm the length of the contract, though the Colts have been offering four-year deals to players selected after the first-round for the past several seasons.

To make room on the 80-player camp roster, Indy waived defensive backs Brannon Condren (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8385), Brandon Foster (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9118) and Brandon Harrison (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8398); quarterback Chris Crane; defensive lineman Pat Kuntz; offensive lineman Cornelius Lewis; and linebacker Tyrell Sales.

Goodfellas

07-30-2009, 07:08 PM

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) -- New England Patriots (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/patriots) defensive end Ty Warren (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/6349) is starting training camp on the active physically unable to perform list.

Others on the list announced Thursday are linebacker Shawn Crable (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8855), offensive linemen Mark LeVoir (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8072) and Rich Ohrnberger (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9387) and defensive lineman Darryl Richard (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9498). The team also put cornerback Shawn Springs (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/3952) and wide receiver Brandon Tate (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9347) on the active non-football injury list.

Warren, a starter for the last five of his six seasons with the Patriots, missed three games last season with a groin injury. He had groin and knee operations in the offseason. Crable, a third-round draft choice last year from Michigan, didn't play as a rookie and spent the last eight games on injured reserve with a shin problem.

Players on the active PUP list can return in training camp when the team decides they're ready.

Sandpig

07-30-2009, 08:31 PM

Football season is here. Time to change the Avi.

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 05:36 AM

Football season is here. Time to change the Avi.

Get a Steve Grogan avi.

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 05:38 AM

NAPA, Calif. (AP) -- Rookie receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey signed a five-year contract with the Oakland Raiders (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/raiders) on Thursday that will guarantee him at least $23.5 million.

Heyward-Bey joined the team in time to participate in Thursday's afternoon practice session, their second of this year's training camp.
"It feels great to get it done," he said. "I wanted to be here as soon as possible. I told my team that and we got the job done."

Oakland did not reveal terms of the contract, but a person involved in the deal told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity that the seventh overall pick will get a base salary of $38.25 million along with the guarantee.

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 05:39 AM

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 05:40 AM

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- The Green Bay Packers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/packers) have signed first-round draft pick Clay Matthews (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9290) III, leaving only fellow first-rounder B.J. Raji unsigned with the Packers poised to report to training camp on Friday.
Terms were not disclosed.

After taking Raji, a defensive tackle out of Boston College, with the No. 9 overall pick in April's draft, the Packers traded up to acquire the 26th overall pick and take Matthews, an outside linebacker from Southern California. Matthews is expected to play outside linebacker in the Packers' new 3-4 defensive alignment.

The Packers also released wide receiver Jamarko Simmons.

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 05:41 AM

CORTLAND, N.Y. (AP) -- New York Jets (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jets) running back Leon Washington (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7866), in a contract dispute while seeking a big raise, was a no-show as players reported Thursday for the start of the team's first training camp under new coach Rex Ryan.

Washington, a Pro Bowl selection last season as a kick returner, is due to earn $535,000 this season, the final year of his rookie deal. He's believed to be looking for about $6 million a year.

The Jets and Washington's agent, Alvin Keels, have been talking this week in an effort to come to a resolution. Keels did not immediately respond to an e-mail from The Associated Press seeking comment.

Washington sat out the first three weeks of organized team activities before returning for minicamp "in good faith" and said he was only looking for "fair-market value." He was the only player not to report Thursday afternoon, and could be subject to a team fine since he is under contract.
"Everybody knows Leon's a huge member of this football team and obviously a huge guy, somebody that finished in the top 10 in punt returns and kick returns," Ryan said. "We want Leon here and we'll see what happens."

Sandpig

07-31-2009, 06:59 AM

Get a Steve Grogan avi.
Who? JK.

I'm 44, so I grew up watching the Pats when they sucked.

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 07:03 AM

Who? JK.

I'm 44, so I grew up watching the Pats when they sucked.

I'm close to your age. I remember John Hannah all pro every year.

Rattbones

07-31-2009, 07:07 AM

Who? JK.

I'm 44, so I grew up watching the Pats when they sucked.
Sucked? What about Tony Eason

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 07:13 AM

Sucked? What about Tony Eason

Grogan was way better but always hurt. Eason was terrible.

Rattbones

07-31-2009, 07:21 AM

Grogan was way better but always hurt. Eason was terrible.
What!!:eek:
Grogen was the QB for ever and they always sucked.
Eason gets drafted in 83, takes over in 84 and in 85 leads them to an AFC title and the super bowl. And on there way to the bowl he out plays Dan Marino in Miami for the devision title. Next year 86 he leads the team to a second AFC east title. He didn't have a long carrier but he was much better then Grogan. I remember I was there

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 01:05 PM

Grogan's stats were way ahead of Easons. Not even comparable.

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 02:38 PM

CORTLAND, N.Y. (AP) -- New York Jets (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jets) running back Leon Washington (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7866) reported to the team and participated in drills Friday during the first practice of training camp.

Washington was a no-show when the rest of the team checked into the players' dormitory Thursday because of a contract dispute. He reported late Thursday night -- without a new deal -- and was in his room by the time coach Rex Ryan did a bed check.

"I saw him and brought him his playbook," Ryan said. "It was good to see him. It was like, 'Hey, Leon!"'

Washington, a Pro Bowl selection last season as a kick returner, didn't participate in regular 11-on-11 or 7-on-7 practices because he completed the team's running test at 6 a.m.

"We purposely held Leon out of drills and we'll hold him out this afternoon as well because he took the running test," Ryan said. "That's a day's work right there. We're being very cautious

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 02:39 PM

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- The Jacksonville Jaguars (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/jaguars) have signed third-round draft pick Terrance Knighton (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9336), leaving the team with two unsigned rookies as training camp approaches.

The Jaguars also waived rookie quarterback Todd Boeckman on Friday.
Knighton, a 6-foot-3, 325-pound defensive tackle and the 72nd overall pick in April, is expected to compete for a starting spot alongside two-time Pro Bowler John Henderson (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5895) in August.

Knighton signed his deal two days before the Jaguars are scheduled to report for training camp. First-round pick Eugene Monroe (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9272) and second-rounder Eben Britton (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9303), both offensive tackles, are the team's only unsigned rookies.

Knighton was a three-year starter at Temple and finished with 26 tackles for loss, six sacks and four forced fumbles

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 02:40 PM

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) -- New England Patriots (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/patriots) coach Bill Belichick won't rule out the chance that the team will sign quarterback Michael Vick (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5448).

But he won't rule it in, either, at least not publicly.

Asked again about Vick on Friday, Belichick repeated his Thursday comment. He said he's concerned about the players the Patriots have in camp, not ones they might acquire.

But Belichick also said any player who isn't in camp has the potential to be in camp at some point.

Vick served 18 months in prison in connection with a dogfighting ring he was running. He was conditionally reinstated by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on Monday.

Many NFL teams have said they won't consider signing the former Atlanta quarterback

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 06:27 PM

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Longtime Colts assistant coaches Tom Moore and Howard Mudd are returning from retirement.

Coach Jim Caldwell announced on Friday that Moore, the offensive coordinator, and Mudd, the offensive line coach, would be back with the team after saying they would retire because of changes to the NFL pension plan.

Both feared they would lose money if they did not retire under the old rules, and were still worried, even after owner Jim Irsay promised not to shortchange them.

Quarterback Peyton Manning (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4256) publicly voiced unhappiness with the uncertainty and Irsay eventually convinced the veteran coaches to return. They will have "senior" added to their titles.
Pete Metzelaars and Clyde Christensen replaced them during the team's minicamp

Sandpig

07-31-2009, 08:02 PM

Grogan's stats were way ahead of Easons. Not even comparable.
I'll take Brady! ;)

Goodfellas

07-31-2009, 08:30 PM

I'll take Brady! ;)

Good call lol

Goodfellas

08-01-2009, 06:51 AM

SAN DIEGO (AP) --The San Diego Chargers (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/chargers) has signed first-round pick Larry English (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9280) to a five-year contract.

The deal was announced Friday night by the club.

English was the 16th overall pick in April. He is expected to join the team in time for Saturday's training-camp practice at Chargers Park.

The 6-foot-2, 255-pound linebacker is from northern Illinois.

The Chargers have but one draft pick unsigned: wide receiver Demetrius Byrd (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/9488), a seventh-round selection. Byrd is recovering from injuries sustained in an April car accident.

The terms of the deal were not immediately known

Goodfellas

08-01-2009, 06:52 AM

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. (AP) -- Every deep pass Jay Cutler (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7760) unleashed drew oohs and ahhs, not to mention loud cheers from the large crowd watching the start of the Chicago Bears (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/bears)' training camp on Friday.

Some 6,000 came to see the quarterback with the rocket arm, the man whose arrival from Denver sent expectations soaring like a Hail Mary pass.
It has been decades since the Bears had a cornerstone quarterback player, and Cutler did not disappoint.

The reception, he said, "has been absolutely tremendous from Day 1.''
Yet for all the excitement, there's one lingering question, Can his wide receivers catch the ball?

"We've got a lot to prove,'' said Devin Hester (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7806), who led the team with 665 yards receiving last season. "For the guys that were out there saying we don't have any receivers, I don't blame them because we haven't proven anything yet.''

Goodfellas

08-01-2009, 06:55 AM

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) -- The San Francisco 49ers placed defensive end Ray McDonald (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/8351) on the active physically unable to perform list Friday, an expected move as he recovers from offseason knee surgery.

The team also released guard Matthew Huners one day before the first day of practice in coach Mike Singletary's first training camp in charge and signed guard-center Matt Spanos to a one-year deal.

McDonald hurt his right knee last Oct. 19 against the New York Giants (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/giants) and underwent reconstructive surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament.
On Thursday, the 49ers signed defensive lineman and former Stanford star Babatunde Oshinowo (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/7930) to a one-year deal to give them some added depth while McDonald is sidelined. A third-round draft pick by the 49ers in 2007, McDonald has played in 24 career games and has 30 tackles and 2.0 sacks.

Spanos, a former collegiate star at Southern California, was released by the Dallas Cowboys (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/cowboys) on July 2. He broke into the league as an undrafted free agent with the Miami Dolphins (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/dolphins) last year before his release on Aug. 30, 2008.

Huners signed with the 49ers as an undrafted free agent on April 30 out of South Florida.

Goodfellas

08-01-2009, 06:56 AM

NAPA, Calif. (AP) -- Exactly one year ago Friday, Javon Walker (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/5906) went in to see Al Davis and told the Oakland Raiders (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/raiders) owner he wanted to retire just months after signing a $55 million contract.

That was part of a first season in Oakland marred by injuries, an offseason robbery in Las Vegas and constant criticism from former coach Lane Kiffin.
It's a brand new Walker at his second training camp, revived by a mysterious offseason operation and excited about getting back on the field instead of staying off it for good.

Walker opened training camp on the physically unable to perform list because of his recovering right knee, but is eager to get back on the field to show people what he's still able to do.

"They're just waiting and making sure that everything goes according to plan,'' he said Friday. "When they let me loose, it's on after that. This is the first time that I've felt this good based off of the problem I was having with my knee. And it got fixed.''

Walker won't reveal what exact procedure he underwent on his knee, saying only it was something new and that it is going to be "something amazing that's going to benefit and help a lot of athletes.''

Goodfellas

08-01-2009, 07:08 AM

RENTON, Wash. (AP) -- Two-time Pro Bowl guard Mike Wahle (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4498) has retired after being released by the Seattle Seahawks (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/seahawks) for failing a physical before their first practice of training camp.

Seahawks coach Jim Mora said Friday the 32-year-old Wahle told him he had "decided to hang it up for the time being" and spend more time with his family.

Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/players/4416) called the news "a tough loss." He and Wahle were rookies together in Green Bay in 1998.

The 11-year veteran had surgery in December on the same right shoulder on which he had surgery in 2006. He was signed from Carolina before the 2008 season