Sunday, September 2, 2007
Back
I'm finally back. I couldn't do this blog in the summer. From now on, I will not be creating my own news articles. Instead, I will post the ESPN articles, and then give my opinion on the news. I will also have rankings and predictions, and will also post the "experts" predictions and rankings and give my thoughts on them.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Dolphins Release Daunte Culpepper
The Dolphins released quarterback Daunte Culpepper today following a disappointing 2006 season and grievance case.
Last year, Culpepper was attempting to come back from major knee surgery that he had while a member of the Minnesota Vikings. He struggled in 4 games last year, compiling 929 yards with a completion percentage of 60.4%, and throwing for 2 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. His knee was clearly still bothering him, as he was sacked 21 times and ran for only 20 yards. Previously when he was a star with the Vikings, his legs were a great asset to his game.
A breach-of-contract grievance filed by the NFL Players Association for Culpepper was going to be heard on Wednesday when Miami told Culpepper that he was not being allowed to fully participate in offseason practices.
Culpepper said of this,"As I was going through this process I heard about a quote by Gandhi that best expresses my thoughts about this victory: 'First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win. Now that I have won my freedom and I get to choose my next team, I am just like many other people who have to go out and find employment so that I can take care of my family."
So the question now is where Daunte Culpepper will end up. The Jacksonville Jaguars are thought to possibly be a destination for Culpepper. I will discuss other some other time.
The Dolphins tried to trade Culpepper, but he threatened to block any trade. We'll have to wait and see what teams express interest in him, and sign him. I don't look for him to be a starter, but to fill a back-up role while continuing his rehab.
So, this is an end to Miami's experiment with Culpepper, who they acquired in a trade last year. At the time, I thought that the Dolphins made a great move, but it has turned out worst that almost anyone expected.
Last year, Culpepper was attempting to come back from major knee surgery that he had while a member of the Minnesota Vikings. He struggled in 4 games last year, compiling 929 yards with a completion percentage of 60.4%, and throwing for 2 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. His knee was clearly still bothering him, as he was sacked 21 times and ran for only 20 yards. Previously when he was a star with the Vikings, his legs were a great asset to his game.
A breach-of-contract grievance filed by the NFL Players Association for Culpepper was going to be heard on Wednesday when Miami told Culpepper that he was not being allowed to fully participate in offseason practices.
Culpepper said of this,"As I was going through this process I heard about a quote by Gandhi that best expresses my thoughts about this victory: 'First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win. Now that I have won my freedom and I get to choose my next team, I am just like many other people who have to go out and find employment so that I can take care of my family."
So the question now is where Daunte Culpepper will end up. The Jacksonville Jaguars are thought to possibly be a destination for Culpepper. I will discuss other some other time.
The Dolphins tried to trade Culpepper, but he threatened to block any trade. We'll have to wait and see what teams express interest in him, and sign him. I don't look for him to be a starter, but to fill a back-up role while continuing his rehab.
So, this is an end to Miami's experiment with Culpepper, who they acquired in a trade last year. At the time, I thought that the Dolphins made a great move, but it has turned out worst that almost anyone expected.
Troy Brown Signs Contract To Come Back To Patriots
Troy Brown, who was a wide receiver free-agent before today, has signed a contract with New England to bring him back for his 15th season with them.
The 36 year old receiver who has also played cornerback has spent his entire career with the Patriots after being drafted by them in the 8th round of the 1993 draft out of Marshall.
Last year, Brown had 43 catches for 384 yards and 4 touchdowns. browns was important to the New England offense last year, as he started 9 of 16 games. He has been the offensive captain for the last 5 seasons.
Brown holds that Patriot's team records for punt returns, punt return yardage, and catches. He is in second in total receiving yards, and is tied for 4th in games played.
I think that Brown is a very nice player for the Patriots to have. I'm not sure how much playing time he will get at wide receiver after New England's offseason spending spree. He will give some more depth at wide receiver and cornerback, and that is why he was brought back.
Also of note, the Patriots announced the signings of 6th round picks Justin Rogers out of Southern Methodist, who is a linebacker, and running back Justice Hairston out of Central Connecticut.
The 36 year old receiver who has also played cornerback has spent his entire career with the Patriots after being drafted by them in the 8th round of the 1993 draft out of Marshall.
Last year, Brown had 43 catches for 384 yards and 4 touchdowns. browns was important to the New England offense last year, as he started 9 of 16 games. He has been the offensive captain for the last 5 seasons.
Brown holds that Patriot's team records for punt returns, punt return yardage, and catches. He is in second in total receiving yards, and is tied for 4th in games played.
I think that Brown is a very nice player for the Patriots to have. I'm not sure how much playing time he will get at wide receiver after New England's offseason spending spree. He will give some more depth at wide receiver and cornerback, and that is why he was brought back.
Also of note, the Patriots announced the signings of 6th round picks Justin Rogers out of Southern Methodist, who is a linebacker, and running back Justice Hairston out of Central Connecticut.
Chirs Chambers Below Legal Alcohol Limit
Dolphins wide receiver Chris Chambers, who was arrested early Saturday morning at 2:31 on charges of driving while impaired and speeding. He was going 74 mph in a 45 mph zone and initially refused to take a blood-alcohol test at the scene.
But, The Miami Herald is now reporting that Chamber's blood-alcohol level was below the legal limit in a test that took place after he was taken to the county jail in Charlotte, North Carolina. His blood-alcohol was at .06, .02 points below the legal limit of .08.
Yesterday Chambers had his drunken driving case delayed until next month. He did not attend a hearing in Mecklenburg County court.
So, it looks like the only charge that Chambers will have to face is the reckless driving and speeding. The drunken driving charge will most likely be dropped because of the test, unless something faulty is found about it. Chambers is a great player for Miami, but he can't be out doing this. It is his responsibility to stay out of trouble, which he did not do.
But, The Miami Herald is now reporting that Chamber's blood-alcohol level was below the legal limit in a test that took place after he was taken to the county jail in Charlotte, North Carolina. His blood-alcohol was at .06, .02 points below the legal limit of .08.
Yesterday Chambers had his drunken driving case delayed until next month. He did not attend a hearing in Mecklenburg County court.
So, it looks like the only charge that Chambers will have to face is the reckless driving and speeding. The drunken driving charge will most likely be dropped because of the test, unless something faulty is found about it. Chambers is a great player for Miami, but he can't be out doing this. It is his responsibility to stay out of trouble, which he did not do.
San Francisco Agrees With First Round Pick Joe Staley
The Forty-Niners have reached an agreement in principal their 2nd first round pick at #28, offensive tackle Joe Staley, to a five year-deal contract. The contract agreed to has a maximum value of $10.74 million and includes $5.6 million in guarantees.
The Niners acquired the 28th pick to get Staley, so they obviously have high hopes for him. Their 1st pick was linebacker Patrick Willis at #11 from the University of Mississippi.
Here is a scouting report on Joe Staley by Len Pasquarelli:
Staley is a terrific natural athlete who moves well for a player his size (6 feet 5, 306 pounds), and who has quick feet and solid techniques. He didn't work out at the combine, but at his pro day audition for scouts was timed in 4.79 seconds in the 40-yard dash and had a 32-inch vertical jump.
The Niners acquired the 28th pick to get Staley, so they obviously have high hopes for him. Their 1st pick was linebacker Patrick Willis at #11 from the University of Mississippi.
Here is a scouting report on Joe Staley by Len Pasquarelli:
Staley is a terrific natural athlete who moves well for a player his size (6 feet 5, 306 pounds), and who has quick feet and solid techniques. He didn't work out at the combine, but at his pro day audition for scouts was timed in 4.79 seconds in the 40-yard dash and had a 32-inch vertical jump.
So thats the scouting report on Staley. He will most likely be a big part In 25 games at left tackle at Central Michigan, Staley had 178 knockdown blocks and 34 blocks that resulted in touchdowns. When Staley started his college career, he was a tight end. Then, in his sophomore season, he was moved to right tackle, and then in his junior year he was moved to left tackle, which he played for the last 2 years of his college career. I believe that he has a lot of raw talent, and that he will be made into a good left tackle over a period of about 2 years. He might not get the starting job right away, and learning will be key for him to succeed in the NFL. Staley joins Chicago Bears first round pick, tight end Greg Olsen , as the only first-rounders to be signed by their teams. More should be coming soon, as this is the time when teams will begin serious negotiations with their draft picks so that they are ready for training camp. |
Monday, July 16, 2007
Samuel and Briggs Fail To Reach Agreements With Patriots and Bears
At the 4:00 deadline today for teams to give an extension to franchise-players, Asante Samuel of the Patriots and Lance Briggs of the Bears did not receive one. Now the 2 franchise-players can only sign a one-year tender if they want to play in the league this year.
Both star defensive players, Samuel, the cornerback, and Briggs, the weakside linebacker, have both repeatedly said that they will hold out until week 10 to sign the tender if they do not get a multi-year deal, therefore not playing until that time. The reason they would start to week 10 would be that it is the last possible point at which a player can sign and still receive credit for an accrued season toward the NFL pension plan.
Last year, Samuel was great, making 65 tackles, 60 of which were solo, 1 forced fumble, and 10 interceptions. His one-year tender would be $7.79 million which would be guaranteed. There are some reported rumors that Samuel has softened his stance, and might report when training camp starts, but nothing is certain yet. Samuel is clearly New England's best cornerback in front of Ellis Hobbs and Tory James. It is very important for the New England defense to have him, as none of those 3 cornerbacks are good enough to fill the top 3 spots on the depth chart.
Briggs, last year, made 134 tackles, 113 of which were solo, made 1 sack, 4 forced fumbles, and got 2 interceptions. The one-year tender for him is $7.206 million. Briggs is still maintaining that he will be holding out until week 10, and I don't think he is bluffing. He, in my opinion, will not report to training camp now that he did not get a multi-year deal. He was really mad that the Bears did not even negotiate with him even when they told him that they would. Briggs, along with Brian Urlacher and Hunter Hillenmeyer, makes up Chicago's starting linebackers. Behind Briggs on the depth chart is Leon Joe, 3rd round pick Michael Owko, and maybe Brendon Ayanbadejo. Briggs is very important to the "Monsters of the Midway" defense, and Chicago better hope that he changes his mind and reports to camp.
Both star defensive players, Samuel, the cornerback, and Briggs, the weakside linebacker, have both repeatedly said that they will hold out until week 10 to sign the tender if they do not get a multi-year deal, therefore not playing until that time. The reason they would start to week 10 would be that it is the last possible point at which a player can sign and still receive credit for an accrued season toward the NFL pension plan.
Last year, Samuel was great, making 65 tackles, 60 of which were solo, 1 forced fumble, and 10 interceptions. His one-year tender would be $7.79 million which would be guaranteed. There are some reported rumors that Samuel has softened his stance, and might report when training camp starts, but nothing is certain yet. Samuel is clearly New England's best cornerback in front of Ellis Hobbs and Tory James. It is very important for the New England defense to have him, as none of those 3 cornerbacks are good enough to fill the top 3 spots on the depth chart.
Briggs, last year, made 134 tackles, 113 of which were solo, made 1 sack, 4 forced fumbles, and got 2 interceptions. The one-year tender for him is $7.206 million. Briggs is still maintaining that he will be holding out until week 10, and I don't think he is bluffing. He, in my opinion, will not report to training camp now that he did not get a multi-year deal. He was really mad that the Bears did not even negotiate with him even when they told him that they would. Briggs, along with Brian Urlacher and Hunter Hillenmeyer, makes up Chicago's starting linebackers. Behind Briggs on the depth chart is Leon Joe, 3rd round pick Michael Owko, and maybe Brendon Ayanbadejo. Briggs is very important to the "Monsters of the Midway" defense, and Chicago better hope that he changes his mind and reports to camp.
Lions Sign Cory Redding To New Deal
On the day of the franchise-player deadline, the Lions signed defensive tackle Cory Redding, their franchise-player, to a seven-year, $49 million contract that included $16 million in guarantees, including $13 million in signing bonus and roster guarantees. Redding will receive little more than $20 million over the next 3 years.
The deal makes the 26 year old the highest paid defensive tackle in the league. The deal beats out the five-year, $33.24 million contract given to Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams.
Last year, Redding had 48 tackles, 39 solo, 2 forced fumbles, and 8 sacks. Lion's head coach Rod Marinelli moved Redding from defensive end to defensive tackle. Now, Reddings appears to be one of the best DT in football.
The deal beat the 4:00 PM eastern deadline today for franchise-players to sign new deals. Had the deal not gotten done, Reddings would have been forced to accept a 1 year deal and would have to wait to the end of the season to sign an extension with Detroit. But now Reddings will be in the Lions training camp, ready to make a great defensive tackle combination of him and Shaun Rogers.
I'll keep you posted on the Lance Briggs and Asante Samuel negations as we are about 40 minutes from the deadline.
The deal makes the 26 year old the highest paid defensive tackle in the league. The deal beats out the five-year, $33.24 million contract given to Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams.
Last year, Redding had 48 tackles, 39 solo, 2 forced fumbles, and 8 sacks. Lion's head coach Rod Marinelli moved Redding from defensive end to defensive tackle. Now, Reddings appears to be one of the best DT in football.
The deal beat the 4:00 PM eastern deadline today for franchise-players to sign new deals. Had the deal not gotten done, Reddings would have been forced to accept a 1 year deal and would have to wait to the end of the season to sign an extension with Detroit. But now Reddings will be in the Lions training camp, ready to make a great defensive tackle combination of him and Shaun Rogers.
I'll keep you posted on the Lance Briggs and Asante Samuel negations as we are about 40 minutes from the deadline.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Bears Give Nathan Vasher Extension
Today, the Bears signed cornerback Nathan Vasher to a 5 year contract extension that will keep him with the Bears through 2012. Further details of the deal are not yet available. He was originally signed through the 2007 season, which would have made him a free agent after this year.
Last year, Vasher, in a pro-bowl season, had 3 interceptions, with 45 tackles, 33 of which were solo and 12 assisted.
Vasher, about the extension, said,"It feels good. It's been a great relief. I know a lot of people have contract issues about this time. It's one less thing I have to worry about."
This is a great move by the Bears. Vasher is a big part of their great defense, and this also gets rid of the distraction of trying to get an extension done mid-season.
Last year, Vasher, in a pro-bowl season, had 3 interceptions, with 45 tackles, 33 of which were solo and 12 assisted.
Vasher, about the extension, said,"It feels good. It's been a great relief. I know a lot of people have contract issues about this time. It's one less thing I have to worry about."
This is a great move by the Bears. Vasher is a big part of their great defense, and this also gets rid of the distraction of trying to get an extension done mid-season.
Bears waive Tank Johnson
Today, the Chicago Bears waived troubled defensive tackle Tank Johnson. The move was made not for performance issues, but because Johnson has gotten in trouble with the law multiple times. He is already suspended for the first 8 games this season because of a violation of a gun probation that he was under. That same violation was what got Johnson into a Cook County jail for 45 days. Then, after he had been suspended 8 games, Johnson got arrested for what Sgt. Andrew Duncan, a police spokesman for the suburb of Gilbert in Arizona, said to be a "DUI Impaired to the Slightest Degree". Johnson had blood drawn from him, but the results have yet to come back. He was also speeding when he was pulled over.
Last season, Johnson played in 14 games, not including the 3 in the playoffs, getting 26 tackles, 22 of which were solo and 4 assisted. He also got 3.5 sacks and a forced fumble.
Bears GM Jerry Angelo said,"We are upset and embarrassed by Tank's actions last week. He compromised the credibility of our organization. We made it clear to him that he had no room for error. Our goal was to help someone through a difficult period in his life, but the effort needs to come from both sides. It didn't and we have decided to move on."
Bears head coach Lovie Smith said,"A lot of people within our organization gave extra time and energy to support Tank; players, coaches and our front office. We did our best to establish an environment for him to move forward. Ultimately Tank needed to live up to his side of the deal"
Reading those quotes, it is very obvious that the Bear's front office does not believe that Johnson can turn his life of bad ways around, which led to him being waived. This is a fairly big loss for the Bears, as he was probably going to be a starter at defensive tackle for the Bears. Now recently signed Anthony Adams from the San Francisco Forty-Niners will probably start at defensive tackle alongside Tommie Harris. The Bears loose a lot of depth with Johnson gone, even if he would only play in eight games.
Last season, Johnson played in 14 games, not including the 3 in the playoffs, getting 26 tackles, 22 of which were solo and 4 assisted. He also got 3.5 sacks and a forced fumble.
Bears GM Jerry Angelo said,"We are upset and embarrassed by Tank's actions last week. He compromised the credibility of our organization. We made it clear to him that he had no room for error. Our goal was to help someone through a difficult period in his life, but the effort needs to come from both sides. It didn't and we have decided to move on."
Bears head coach Lovie Smith said,"A lot of people within our organization gave extra time and energy to support Tank; players, coaches and our front office. We did our best to establish an environment for him to move forward. Ultimately Tank needed to live up to his side of the deal"
Reading those quotes, it is very obvious that the Bear's front office does not believe that Johnson can turn his life of bad ways around, which led to him being waived. This is a fairly big loss for the Bears, as he was probably going to be a starter at defensive tackle for the Bears. Now recently signed Anthony Adams from the San Francisco Forty-Niners will probably start at defensive tackle alongside Tommie Harris. The Bears loose a lot of depth with Johnson gone, even if he would only play in eight games.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Fred Evans Arrested
Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Fred Evans was arrested early today in South Beach. The 305 pound, 6 -four-4 player refused to leave a taxi that was on South Beach. The police report said that officers asked Evans to leave the taxi, but he refused. The police then tried to put him in handcuffs, but he resisted, leading to a scuffle in which the officers used a Taser gun on him twice to subdue him. Allegedly in the scuffle, one officer was bitten on the wrist and a female officer sustained scrapes on her left knee, according to the police.
Evans was charged with multiple counts of battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting with violence, also with single counts of disorderly intoxication and trespassing. Allegedly, one officer was bitten on the wrist and a female officer sustained scrapes on her left knee, police said.
In a statement, Dolphins head coach Cam Cameron said,"We will not condone this type of behavior. I assure everyone it will be dealt with seriously."
Last year, the rookie Evans appeared in only 1 game with the Dolphins. Obviously this is not a good story, for the Dolphins, the officers, or Evans. Whether the allegations made are true is still to come.
Evans was charged with multiple counts of battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting with violence, also with single counts of disorderly intoxication and trespassing. Allegedly, one officer was bitten on the wrist and a female officer sustained scrapes on her left knee, police said.
In a statement, Dolphins head coach Cam Cameron said,"We will not condone this type of behavior. I assure everyone it will be dealt with seriously."
Last year, the rookie Evans appeared in only 1 game with the Dolphins. Obviously this is not a good story, for the Dolphins, the officers, or Evans. Whether the allegations made are true is still to come.
Falcons Sign Orlando Huff
Today the Atlanta Falcons signed free-agent Orlando Huff. The terms of the deal between the Falcons and the 28 year old are not out yet. Huff can play outside linebacker and can also play special teams.
Last year, the 6 year veteran played in 13 games for the Arizona Cardinals making 79 tackles, 58 of which were solo and 11 assisted.
What this signing does is that it provides depth and experience at the weakside linebacker position and on special teams. Depth is needed at weakside linebacker as projected starter Demorrio Williams is recovering from offseason surgery to repair a torn pectoral muscle. This is a good move. Although Williams is supposed to be ready for the regular season, Huff provides depth at the position.
Also today, the Falcons signed rookie free agent George Cooper. Cooper, the tight end, was first signed as a rookie free agent by the Detroit Lions. He was then released.
Last year, the 6 year veteran played in 13 games for the Arizona Cardinals making 79 tackles, 58 of which were solo and 11 assisted.
What this signing does is that it provides depth and experience at the weakside linebacker position and on special teams. Depth is needed at weakside linebacker as projected starter Demorrio Williams is recovering from offseason surgery to repair a torn pectoral muscle. This is a good move. Although Williams is supposed to be ready for the regular season, Huff provides depth at the position.
Also today, the Falcons signed rookie free agent George Cooper. Cooper, the tight end, was first signed as a rookie free agent by the Detroit Lions. He was then released.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Brandon Manumaleuna Gets New Contract
San Diego Chargers signed backup tight end Brandon Manumaleuna to a new 3 year contract through 2009. The financial terms of the deal are not available yet. The new deal replaces the 5 year deal that Manumaleuna signed with the St. Louis Rams in 2004 before he was traded to San Diego for a 4th round draft pick in a trade that took place on the weekend of the draft. Under that previous contract, he was going to earn salaries of $1.475 million in 2007 and $1.525 million in 2008.
Manumaleuna is not a full-time starter with pro-bowler Antonio Gates starting before him at the tight end position. However, because new Charger head coach Norv Turner likes to use multiple-tight end formations and he can play h-back and obviously tight end, Manumaleuna will most likely have a bigger role in the San Diego offense this season.
Last year in his first season with San Diego, Manumaleunain 16 games and 7 starts compiled 91 yards on 14 receptions and scored 3 touchdowns in a 2 tight end set with Antonio Gates. In his career, the 27 year old has played in 94 games with 62 starts, getting 80 receptions for 793 yards and 9 touchdowns.
In describing Manumaleuna, Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said this,"Brandon's ability to contribute in both the run game and the passing game were key to our success in 2006. He's an extremely talented blocker, but also showed last year that he can make the tough catch when we need him to."
I like Manumaleuna for San Diego alongside Gates. He offers a nice complement to him in the passing game, and also helps with the running game, as he is a very good blocker.
Tank Johnson In Trouble Again
The troubled Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson was pulled over by police at 3 AM this morning in Gilbert, Arizona. Johnson was pulled over for speeding, but then police drew blood from a "very cooperative" Johnson at the Gilbert police station to determine whether he was drunk. Sgt. Andrew Duncan told the Chicago Tribune that Johnson was going 40 MPH in a 25 MPH zone when an officer "made observations that led him to believe Johnson was impaired." Duncan also said that the results of the test are not expected to come in up to two weeks.
As you probably know, Johnson was suspended by Roger Goodell for 8 games, but it can be reduced to 6 games if Johnson has no other involvement with crime and the police and undergoes counseling. Johnson recently spent 45 days in a Cook County jail for violating his probation on previous gun charges.
Whether this possible DUI has an effect on the suspension reduction or just the 8 game suspension is not know yet. My guess is that it will not matter if Johnson's blood test reveals that he was not drunk. If the test shows he was intoxicated, I doubt that Johnson will have any chance to reduce the 8 game suspension. Johnson just needs to stay out of trouble and do his counseling. But, it seems to he is not capable of doing that task. The Chicago Bears could really use Johnson at the defensive tackle, as they need depth there with Ian Scott's departure.
NFL News For June 22, 2007
Some news to get to for today. But first a quick note about this site. I will start doing team and position closeups, getting ready for the start of training camp. The first thing that will be done is rankings of teams and players. The first rankings will be team offenses in the AFC, then NFC, then the entire NFL. Those should be available shortly. Here is the news in the NFL for today.
- Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones surrendered to Nevada police and was released on $20,000 dollar bail early this morning, more specifically at two in the morning. This is coming up two felony charges coming from a triple shooting caused by a strip club melee. The suspended Titan will plead not guilty to two felony charges of coercion from allegations that Jones threatened to kill Minxx bar employees and bit a bar bouncer at the club. If Jones is convicted of these felonies, he faces a maximum of twelve years in prison and a $10,000 fine. As you all probably know, Jones has been suspended by Roger Goodell for the whole 2007 NFL suspension because of the six arrests that he has had since he was drafted. But, if he has good behavior he could be reinstated in the eleventh game of the season. However, it does not look like Jones has had very good behavior after he received his suspension and promised Goodell that he would change, as he might have been involved in an Atlanta shooting early Monday morning. I think that this is just a sad story. He could be one of the best cornerbacks in the entire league, but he is just throwing that out the window with his outrageous behavior. There is a very good chance that he will never step onto an NFL field ever again.
- Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle Oliver Ross has taken a reduction from $2.8 million to $1.8 million for his salary this season. The 1 million dollars can be earned back by Ross with incentives dealing with playing time and performance. His salary will stay at $2.8 million for the 2008-09 season, as the reduction did not affect them. The nine-year veteran has worked at the right tackle in most spring workouts for the Cardinal's first offensive unit. He has started 17 games there in the past two years. Ross, as head coach Ken Whisenhunt said earlier, might move to left tackle, but but that has not happened yet, and will likely not happen. The reason for that is that in the offseason, Arizona signed former Bills offensive linemen Mike Gandy, and he is the projected starter at left tackle for the Cardinals. So that leaves the right tackle spot for Ross, but the number five pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, Levi Brown, might take that position. Ross will be rejoined by his former coaches when he was a Pittsburgh Steeler, Whisenhunt and Russ Grim, his former offensive line coach. Arizona hopes that Ross can fulfill their expectation for him with the new coaches, and him being healthy because he was injured with hand and knee injuries with has forced him to play only 23 appearances and 17 starts the last two seasons. That will be an interesting battle in training camp and the pre-season for the Arizona Cardinals.
- Kansas City star running back Larry Johnson has threatened to hold out if the Chiefs do not give him a new deal. Johnson has one year left on his contract, and was subject to some trade rumors earlier this offseason. Last season, Johnson compiled 1789 yards on 416 carries, getting 17 touchdowns. So, we'll have to wait and see if Larry Johnson is serious about this hold out.
Lets take a look at the chiefs running back situation with Johnson. The chiefs drafted Kolby Smith, a running back out of Louisville, in the 5th round of this years draft. Smith signed with the chiefs today, but the terms of the deal were not available. Smith was in all 13 games for Louisville last year, getting 891 yards on 154 carries and also got 7 touchdowns. He was the running back who filled in for Michael Bush when he got injured. Bush was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 4th round of this years draft. The other Kansas City running backs are Michael Bennett, Johnson's current backup, and the youngsters Derrick Ross and Marcus O’Keith. Ross was actually the offensive co-MVP of NFL Europa this spring after rushing for 802 yards in 10 games.
The chiefs are really in trouble if Larry Johnson is not playing for them. He is one of the few playmakers on that offense, and is easily the best and most valuable player on the entire team. I do not consider the Chiefs a playoff team with Johnson, but without him the Oakland Raiders might be better.
- Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones surrendered to Nevada police and was released on $20,000 dollar bail early this morning, more specifically at two in the morning. This is coming up two felony charges coming from a triple shooting caused by a strip club melee. The suspended Titan will plead not guilty to two felony charges of coercion from allegations that Jones threatened to kill Minxx bar employees and bit a bar bouncer at the club. If Jones is convicted of these felonies, he faces a maximum of twelve years in prison and a $10,000 fine. As you all probably know, Jones has been suspended by Roger Goodell for the whole 2007 NFL suspension because of the six arrests that he has had since he was drafted. But, if he has good behavior he could be reinstated in the eleventh game of the season. However, it does not look like Jones has had very good behavior after he received his suspension and promised Goodell that he would change, as he might have been involved in an Atlanta shooting early Monday morning. I think that this is just a sad story. He could be one of the best cornerbacks in the entire league, but he is just throwing that out the window with his outrageous behavior. There is a very good chance that he will never step onto an NFL field ever again.
- Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle Oliver Ross has taken a reduction from $2.8 million to $1.8 million for his salary this season. The 1 million dollars can be earned back by Ross with incentives dealing with playing time and performance. His salary will stay at $2.8 million for the 2008-09 season, as the reduction did not affect them. The nine-year veteran has worked at the right tackle in most spring workouts for the Cardinal's first offensive unit. He has started 17 games there in the past two years. Ross, as head coach Ken Whisenhunt said earlier, might move to left tackle, but but that has not happened yet, and will likely not happen. The reason for that is that in the offseason, Arizona signed former Bills offensive linemen Mike Gandy, and he is the projected starter at left tackle for the Cardinals. So that leaves the right tackle spot for Ross, but the number five pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, Levi Brown, might take that position. Ross will be rejoined by his former coaches when he was a Pittsburgh Steeler, Whisenhunt and Russ Grim, his former offensive line coach. Arizona hopes that Ross can fulfill their expectation for him with the new coaches, and him being healthy because he was injured with hand and knee injuries with has forced him to play only 23 appearances and 17 starts the last two seasons. That will be an interesting battle in training camp and the pre-season for the Arizona Cardinals.
- Kansas City star running back Larry Johnson has threatened to hold out if the Chiefs do not give him a new deal. Johnson has one year left on his contract, and was subject to some trade rumors earlier this offseason. Last season, Johnson compiled 1789 yards on 416 carries, getting 17 touchdowns. So, we'll have to wait and see if Larry Johnson is serious about this hold out.
Lets take a look at the chiefs running back situation with Johnson. The chiefs drafted Kolby Smith, a running back out of Louisville, in the 5th round of this years draft. Smith signed with the chiefs today, but the terms of the deal were not available. Smith was in all 13 games for Louisville last year, getting 891 yards on 154 carries and also got 7 touchdowns. He was the running back who filled in for Michael Bush when he got injured. Bush was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 4th round of this years draft. The other Kansas City running backs are Michael Bennett, Johnson's current backup, and the youngsters Derrick Ross and Marcus O’Keith. Ross was actually the offensive co-MVP of NFL Europa this spring after rushing for 802 yards in 10 games.
The chiefs are really in trouble if Larry Johnson is not playing for them. He is one of the few playmakers on that offense, and is easily the best and most valuable player on the entire team. I do not consider the Chiefs a playoff team with Johnson, but without him the Oakland Raiders might be better.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
NFL News For June 21, 2007
A bunch of news for today:
- Today, Atlanta Falcons coach Bobby Petrino said that WR Brian Finneran is going to miss the entire 2007 season because of his 2nd reconstructive knee surgery in two years that took place last week. He hurt the knee while going through rehabilitation in May, which was for the severe knee injury that Finneran suffered last year and caused him to miss the entire season. Petrino said,"He had a lot of differing [medical] opinions and decided last week to go in and get the reconstruction surgery. It's a 9-to 12-month recovery period, and unfortunately that means he's out for the season."This injury could be career threatening for Finneran. He led all Falcon receivers in 2005 when he compiled 611 yards on 60 catches. In March 2006, he signed a 4 year, 8 million dollar contract. After that, he suffered his first knee injury. In total, Finneran has played 86 games with 35 starts for Atlanta. In those games, he has 187 catches for 2,647 yards and 15 touchdowns.
So, with Finneran's injury, lets take a look at the Atlanta Falcon's receiver situation. Following last years performance of last in the NFL in passing, the Falcons signed star WR Joe Horn from the New Orleans Saints. They also selected Illinois State WR Laurent Robinson in the 3rd round of the 2007 NFL draft. Before the injury, Horn and former 1st round pick Michael Jenkins were listed as the starting WR with Finneran as Jenkin's top backup(Jenkins is the #1 WR). Now, either Robinson, Adam Jennings, or Fred Gibson has a chance to take over the number 3 WR spot. Said Petrino," I think it affects our competition a little bit. [Finneran] would have been another guy in there who really competed and lifted everybody else with his experience. We lose a lot there without his experience and knowledge of how to prepare for a game."
I think that this is a pretty big blow to an Atlanta WR group that does not have that much depth to begin with. But, this injury does open up the door for the mentioned WR, and gives them chances to shine.
- LaVar Arrington, who was involved in a motorcycle accident when he ran into a highway ramp earlier this week will remain in the Prine George's Hospital Center for at least a few more days, most likely next week. In the accident, Arrington suffered a broken right forearm and has severe lacerations in his leg. This accident greatly setbacks Arrington's football career as the linebacker still has no team to play on after he tore his Achilles tendon last year when his was on the New York Giants. Said his attorney, Rosalyn Pugh, on his career,"He's not talking about that. He's just talking about how blessed he is to be in one piece given the accident he's been in." If I were a NFL team GM, I would give Arrington a shot if I had little depth at linebacker. He has proven that he is a pretty good player when he has been healthy. However, this recent accident and the injury obtained last year has to and is obviously drawing a lot of concern.
- Former USC star and the 2nd round pick of the Carolina Panthers Dwayne Jarrett in the 2007 NFL draft escaped serious injury in a car crash that took place Wednesday night. Although details of the accident are not out yet, Panthers officials said that Jarrett only sustained superficial bruises and bumps. Luckily, he had his seatbelt on. The Carolina physicians are aware of the accident and are expected to monitor him along with Jarrett's personal doctors. It is not believed that Jarrett is hospitalized, and more details of the accident will come tomorrow. I don't think that this is that big of a deal. Jarrett may just need to take a few days off, but the injuries do not seem too serious.
- The NFL and NFLPA have agreed to adopt Social Security Administrative satndards for determining qualification for retired players to get disability funds. Under this agreement, any former player who qualifies for Social Security disability benefits will be automatically for NFL disability too. This is a big change from the previous policy which made past players with injuries travel to doctors who were unfamiliar with their case. This change comes before the congressional subcommittee hearing Tuesday over the pension and disability programs of the NFL. Says Troy Vincent, NLFPA president,"It's long and involved and there definitely is a lot of red tape. Some guys don't understand it, and even for the ones who do, it's a real [chore]. I'm sure some [retired players] just get to the point where they figure it's not worth the time you've got to put into it. They just get so frustrated, they kind of give up." I think that this is a very good decision. There is no reason why to not get former NFL players who are injured help. Although this does not settle it, it is a step in the right direction.
- Recently released safety from the Jacksonville Jaguars Donovan Darius had a meeting with the Oakland Raiders on Wednesday and had a physical exam. Oakland has yet to make a contract offer, reports Len Pasuarelli, but were expected to talk to Darius's agent today. No offer has been made yet. Other teams interested in him are are the Buffalo Bills and Carolina Panthers, but he has not visited with either one. Darius, who is 31, was not able to participate in the Jaguar's offseason program this spring, but was expected to be ready for training camp. Last year, he played in 11 games before breaking his right ankle. The year before, he played in just 2 games before tearing his ACL. Last year, he made 48 tackles, 39 of which were solo and 9 assisted, and had no sacks or interceptions. I think that he would be a solid pickup for a team looking for safety depth, even though he has suffered major injuries and has played in only 12 games the past 2 seasons. We'll see what happens with him, as he has not been offered a contract yet.
-John Clayton of ESPN has reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to a contract extension with defensive tackle Chris Hoke through 2010. The contract is 4 years, 6.5 million dollars with a 1.5 million dollar signing bonus. Hoke was going to make 900,000 dollars this season, but he will now make 2.1 million dollars this year including the signing bonus. He just got a lot richer. Hoke is entering his 7th season with the Steelers. He plays behind pro bowler Casey Hampton at the nose tackle position, but coaches think he would be able to start on other teams. Last year, Hoke made 12 tackles, 10 of which were solo and 2 assisted, playing in all 16 games. I really like this extension. It provides good depth on the defensive line for the Steelers for years to come, and locks up a solid player that could start at nose tackle. Last year, Hoke made 12 tackles, 10 of which were solo and 2 assisted, playing in all 16 games.
- In other steelers news, Pittsburgh has began contract extension talks with safety Troy Polamalu and will most likely begin talks with linebacker Clark Haggans soon. Both are free agents after this season. Other free agents after next season are guard Kendall Simmons, tackle Max Starks, and guard Alan Faneca, who is expected to leave after this season. It is very important for the Steelers to resign Polamalu in my opinion, for he is a very key part of that Pittsburgh defense.
About The Blog......
Sorry I haven't made any posts in about a week, been busy. I will attempt to make daily NFL news posts from now on.
Friday, June 15, 2007
NFL News For June 5th, 2007
Not too much news to get to today in the NFL.
- Redskins rookie safety LaRon Landry was forced to sit out in today's practice as Washington opened up minicamp. The reason was that he took a paintball shot to the groin in a team-building outing on Wednesday. Him and some other defensive players on the redskins went to play paintball after coach Joe Gibbs let the team leave early after Spring Voluntary workouts. said Gibbs, "It's kind of bizarre. Almost anything can happen in life, so every now and then something like that does happen." This is not a really big deal, as Landry should be back on the field after a couple of days. Just kind of an odd accident.
- The saints cut 2 players on Friday, Michael Lewis and Willie Whitehead. Lewis was a very popular kick returner among the New Orleans fans. Lewis joined the Saints in 200 after not being drafted, and became a member of the Saint's practice squad. He was promoted to the active roster in 2001 for 8 games, and played all 16 games in 2002. Lewis was the Saints all-time leader in kick returns, which was 243 for 5,903 yards on, and punt returns, which he had 42 for 1,482 yards on. Lewis also had 4 touchdown returns- 3 on kick-off and 1 on punt. In 2002, he set the Saints record for kick-off return yardage by getting 1,807 yards and punt-return yardage, which was 625 yards. That year he was voted on the All-Pro team, and set an NFL record for most return yards(2,432). He ranked 6th in kick-off returns in the NFC in 2004, and injured his knee in 2005, missing much of the 2006 season.
Whitehead joined the Saints in 1999 and went to the NFL Europe League. In his career, he had 266 tackles, 168 of those solo, 24.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 3 fumble recoveries. In 2004 he won the Ed Block Courage Award by his teammates. He also won NFC Defensive Player of the Week in 2003.
Both players seem to be like in New Orleans, and hopefully they can both find new jobs.
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