Post by John on May 3, 2006 10:37:04 GMT -4
5/3 Updates
Steelers RB V. Haynes To Assume "Bettis" Role In Offense?
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, via CBS Sportsline.com
After attempts at a potential trade for Atlanta Falcons running back T.J. Duckett failed, the Pittsburgh Steelers seem intent upon having running back Verron Haynes filling the void that was left in the offense when former Steelers running back Jerome Bettis retired following the Super Bowl.
Bengals WR C. Henry Investigated For Sex Crime
Dennis Janson, Jay Warren, WCPO.com
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry is currently being investigated by Kenton County prosecutors related to what is being called an "alleged crime of a sexual nature." No further information related to the alleged incident is available at this time.
QB McNair's Potential Deal To Ravens Dead?
Jim Wyatt, Tennessean.com
According to Tennessee Titans General Manager Floyd Reese, a potential trade of quarterback Steve McNair to the Baltimore Ravens is dead. "The Baltimore thing, in my mind, is dead. I haven't talked to them in a few days so I assume it was a one-shot deal. Now could that change? Sure. We'll just have to see what happens."
WR Chad Johnson Confident Bengals Will Dominate
Joe Kay, Lowell Sun Online
WR Chad Johnson is never one to mince words. He insists that the Cincinnati Bengals will not only win their division this season, they'll dominate it. "We're going to be good," Johnson said Wednesday, following a workout at Paul Brown Stadium. "Anyone else that feels we're not going to dominate the AFC North this year, something's wrong. Look at the numbers. Look at the players. Look at me. What else could I say?"
Texans Had A Great Draft
John McClain, Houston Chronicle
Now that we're beyond the emotional responses that were so hysterical they were laughable, let's examine the reasoning behind the Houston Texans' decision to draft defensive end Mario Williams over running back Reggie Bush. First of all, let's reiterate that our first two choices were Vince Young and Bush, but that being said, it's clear to anyone who knows anything about the NFL that the Texans had a terrific draft on paper.
Lions Rookies To Meet At Rookie Camp
Chrissie Zavicar, DetroitLions.com
What this weekend will do is begin the process of preparing the Detroit Lions rookies to take that step up from college to the NFL. “Why do you have a rookie mini-camp?” said Head Coach Rod Marinelli. “First of all you want to get as many men here that create a team atmosphere so the guys we drafted and our free agents have a great opportunity to get a full team setting of practice.”
WR Walker Seeks To Prove His Worth
Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News
Javon Walker's contract with the Denver Broncos is nearly done. Soon, he'll begin trying to prove on the field he's nowhere close to being finished as an NFL star after a torn right knee ligament ended last season almost before it started. The receiver, who was dealt Saturday by the Green Bay Packers to the Denver Broncos for a second-round draft pick, is completing his yearly training routine in Arizona.
RB Drew Enters Jaguars Running Game Debate
Vito Stellino, The Florida Times-Union
Jacksonville Jaguars rookie running back Maurice Drew had no idea he'll be a central figure in what is likely to be the most intriguing drama during the Jaguars' training camp: the future of veteran running back Fred Taylor in Jacksonville. If Drew can prove he can combine with Greg Jones to form the Jaguars' 1-2 running back punch, the Jaguars could decide they don't need Taylor and his $2.55-million salary.
RB R. Williams Heading North?
FoxSports.com
Miami Dolphins running back Ricky Williams appears open to playing for the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League next season. However, it remains unclear as to whether the Dolphins were OK with it. Williams, who is under contract with the Dolphins through the 2008 season, must receive permission from the team to play in the CFL. The Dolphins have the right to prevent Williams from playing elsewhere because of a standard clause in NFL contracts.
Vikings Personnel Director Foley Fired
Associated Press
Fran Foley, the Minnesota Vikings' personnel director, was fired by the team on Wednesday after acknowledging there were inaccuracies on the resume he presented to the team when he was hired in January. Foley had signed a three-year contract with Minnesota, coming over from the San Diego Chargers.
TE Mills Is Mr. Versatility
Tom Casale, Patriots Football Weekly
The Patriots surprised a lot of people when they selected Garrett Mills in the fourth round of this year's draft. Some questioned why New England would take a tight end with back-to-back picks. However, looking closer at Mills, it's obvious he's much more than just a TE. Mills isn’t sure where he’ll play in New England but he’s prepared to contribute in any way he can. “I’m going to come into this organization and do whatever is asked of me,” Mills said. “If Coach Belichick asks me to play a little tight end, I’ll do that. If it’s fullback, I’ll do that. If it’s a little bit of both, even better."
QB Jacobs' Stats Led Team to Claim Third MAC QB
Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
As with fellow Mid-American Conference QB Ben Roethlisberger, Omar Jacobs figured an NFL team would draft him in the first round. He did not think that team would be the Steelers. He was wrong on both counts. He was drafted in the fifth round, and it was the Steelers who did so. "I'm prepared to learn," Jacobs said. He went on saying, "Just to be a guy and just to come in and compete. I'm a competitor and I'm going to compete for the job. Ben is a great QB. If I have to sit for a while, and, if my time comes, it will come. I think I have to be patient to some degree and I want to be patient in Pittsburgh."
Trade Value Key To QB McNair Deal
Jim Wyatt, Tennessean.com
On Sunday, Steve McNair called Vince Young to wish him good luck. It seems just a matter of time before he'll call to tell him goodbye. The good friends and may not be teammates for long. The Titans and Ravens are discussing a trade for McNair, and all that's holding it up is what the Titans will get in return. Now that the draft is over, however, the value of picks in the 2007 draft has gone up, Titans GM Floyd Reese said. There are indications that the trade could be made immediately if the two sides agree on compensation, but the Titans are also willing to wait until June to make a decision.
CB Zemaitis May Be Perfect Fit
Chris Harry, Orlando Sentinel
More than one scouting service projected Penn State CB Alan Zemaitis as an ideal fit into the cover-2 scheme. It only makes sense that he was gobbled up by the cover-2 masters. Tampa Bay made Zemaitis their first pick on the second day of the NFL draft, fortifying a secondary manned by two outstanding -- but 30-something -- cornerbacks in Ronde Barber and Brian Kelly. Zemaitis will be weaned at the critical corner and nickel spots as a backup to Barber.
DT Oshinowo Could Be Lost Gem
Jeff Walcoff, ClevelandBrowns.com
Several years from now, the Browns may have gotten their steal of the '06 draft in Stanford defensive tackle Babatunde Oshinowo, taken in the sixth round. Oshinowo has been scouted as an ideal lineman for a 3-4 defense and had an outstanding 2006 Senior Bowl. He was projected by many as a sure Day 1 pick, until what Oshinowo called a combine that "wasn't the best representation of what I could do on the field." After the tough combine performance, Oshinowo's stock fell and the Browns were able to snatch him late in the draft.
QB Van Pelt Ready To Compete
Andrew Mason, DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos QB Bradlee Van Pelt wants the backup QB job. But he realizes he'll need to work hard for it now with top pick QB Jay Cutler in the fold. "I don't want to speculate where I'm going to begin," he said. "Hell, they could bring in someone else and I could begin at 5 (on the depth chart). It's not going to faze me. I've been there before. I've sat there in the exact same chair being No. 5."
CB Ratliff Eyes Starting Gig
Kevin Goheen, Cincinnati Post
CB Keiwan Ratliff put himself on notice long before the Cincinnati Bengals selected CB Johnathan Joseph in the first round of last weekend's NFL draft. The Columbus native saw the tape of his games last season, and he wasn't impressed with what he saw. That kind of self-criticism can be a little harsh but even family members and those close to Ratliff were telling him they sensed something wasn't completely right with him last season.
QB Brees Progressing
Kevin Acee, Union-Tribune
Although New Orleans QB Drew Brees has long acknowledged the possibility that recovery from the torn labrum in his throwing shoulder could take longer, he has always believed he will be ready for the start of the season. “I've been throwing for almost four weeks,” Brees said. In that the beginning of May was his target date to begin throwing following his shoulder surgery in January, Brees was told that must mean he remains ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation.
Cardinals LBs Dinged Up
Kent Somers, Arizona Republic
Arizona Cardinals coach Dennis Green is worried about the health of his linebackers Starting outside linebacker Karlos Dansby didn't practice because of a hamstring strain. Middle linebacker Gerald Hayes, expected to be the starter, isn't practicing after missing all of last year with a knee injury.
QB Navarre Not Fazed By QB Leinart
Kent Somers, Arizona Republic
Arizona Cardinals QB John Navarre, entering his third season with the team, will now have serious competition to back up QB Kurt Warner. "Hey, I have to compete," he said. "Competition brings out the best. I have to expect that and so does Matt (Leinart) coming in, and I know he does."
WR Lelie Won't Accept #3 Role
Bill Williamson and Mike Klis, Denver Post
Denver WR Ashley Lelie has made it clear that he will not play in Denver if it means he lines up as the third receiver. "Me coming back is definitely out of the question at this point with me being the No. 3 receiver," Lelie said Monday night from Arizona. "There's nothing to mend. There's no solution. ... Let me go somewhere where I can compete."
RB Haynes Wants More Playing Time
Mike Prisuta, Tribune-Review
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Verron Haynes re-established himself as invaluable on third downs and earned himself a new contract for a couple of reasons. Some feel Haynes may be lost in a crowded backfield but Pittsburgh brass feel otherwis: "Don't forget about Verron," Steelers running backs coach Dick Hoak said. Added coach Bill Cowher, "Verron Haynes is a guy you can't overlook."
CB Jones Had Permission To Miss Workouts
Terry McCormick, Nashville City Paper
According to CB PacMan Jones’ agent, the Tennessee Titans knew last week the cornerback would be leaving the team facility and working out on his own until the next organized team activities session for veterans. Michael Huyghue, who represents Jones, said he “decided it would be better for Jones to work out on his own” in light of a pair of off-field incidents where the cornerback’s name was linked in recent days. Huyghue said he telephoned coach Jeff Fisher, who understood the decision.
Giants Keeping Tabs On QB Fiedler
Ralph Vacchiano, Daily News
Ex-Jet QB Jay Fiedler should begin throwing later this month, according to his agent, Brian Levy. The New York Giants have "remained in contact," Levy said. "(But) at this point we are waiting until Jay is able to begin throwing to give him a better opportunity to impress his potential suitors." The Giants are interested in bringing Fiedler to camp to compete with QB Tim Hasselbeck for the backup job.
WR Lelie Fires Agent
Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News
Denver Broncos WR Ashlie Lelie has fired his agents, Michael Sullivan and Doug Hendrickson. It will be his next representation's chore to work out a trade or convince Lelie he would be better served playing out the final year of his contract instead of following through on a holdout threat.
Ravens In No Rush For QB McNair
Jaminson Hensley, Sun-Sentinel
The Baltimore Ravens could suspend further trade talks with the Tennessee Titans, knowing there is a possibility that QB Steve McNair could become a free agent in a couple of weeks. A hearing between the NFL players union and the Titans is set for May 16, when an arbitrator will decide if the team breached its contract with McNair by barring him from working out at its facility.
WR Moss Can't Avoid Comparisons
David Porter, AP
New York Giants WR Sinorice Moss is eager to follow in his brother's footsteps, but he also wants to make a name for himself. He is used to the comparisons but they don't faze him. "It really doesn't bother me. We're going to be compared no matter what," he said. "Santana is Santana and I'm Sinorice, and all I can do is go out and play the best football I can."
5/2 Updates
CB Taylor Signs Deal With Steelers
Len Pasquarelli, ESPN.com
CB Ike Taylor signed the one-year restricted free-afent offer from the Steelers today. The deal is worth 1.57 million and Taylor will be an unrestricted free-agent next year. The Steelers may discuss a long-term contract until then.
California Governor Schwarzenegger Wants Two Teams In L.A.?
NFL.com
If California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger got his wish, the City of Los Angeles would become the new home for two NFL franchises, not just one. When asked to discuss his goals for attending a recent meeting with NFL owners, Schwarzenegger said that he is hoping "we're getting not only one NFL team to the Los Angeles area, Southern California, but to actually get two teams. That's why I came. Why limit it?"
CB Woodson Cleared For Full Duties
Packers.com
When the Green Bay Packers open mini-camp on Friday, CB Charles Woodson will be in full action. "My heath is fine and I haven't lost any speed," said Woodson, whose 2005 season ended when a teammate broke his fibula Oct. 23 vs. Buffalo. "I'm completely healed. There was really nothing I could do about that. But as far as my health is concerned now, everything's fine." Woodson looks like he could be finally healthy this year.
Titans In No Hurry To Let QB McNair Go
Jamison Hensley, The altimore Sun
The Baltimore Ravens are still waiting for the Tennessee Titans to release QB Steve McNair. They might be waiting for a while. The Titans have stated that they will hold onto McNair until a week before training camp in July if they don't get what they want via trade. It's believed that the Ravens offered a 5th round pick but the Titans demand a 4th. A deal shouldn't take that long since the Titans gave McNair permission to seek a trade.
OT Roaf Not Thinking Of Retirement
AP, ESPN.com
OT Willie Roaf has no more thoughts of retirement, even at 36 years old. If RB Larry Johnson rushes for 2000 yards this year, Roaf wants to be a part of it. Having fellow OL Will Shields come back was a big part of his decision. They won their first playoff game in 13 years last season and now with new OC Mike Solari, there will be more emphasis on the running game. Looks like the Kansas City running game is ready to roll.
LB Webster Signed To One-Year Deal
AP
The Denver Broncos said Tuesday they have signed a one-year contract with free-agent linebacker Nate Webster, reuniting the former Buc with seven-time Pro Bowl safety John Lynch. Webster spent his time in Tampa and Cincinnati as a middle linebacker.
QB Marcus Vick To Attend Mini-Camp
Len Pasquarelli, ESPN
Virginia Tech quarterback Marcus Vick will attend the Miami Dolphins' rookie mini-camp this weekend to audition for the team's coaches and personnel officials. Vick is still unsigned, but obviously hopes to make enough of an impression to get a deal with Miami.
LB McIntosh Feels The Pressure
Howard Bryant, Washington Post
LB Rocky McIntosh is being charged with replacing former pro-bowler Lavar Arrington, and he's just fine with that. "I'm just glad they picked me up. I'm used to the pressure. People can label me and say whatever they want, but I've got a job to do" McIntosh said.
S Manning Confident Despite Poor College Competition
ESPN Wire
Safety Danieal Manning doubts his lack of Division I college football experience will hinder his efforts to make a splash in the NFL. In fact, Manning is certain he can be a starter this year. "Deep down inside, I really know I could," said Manning, who can play safety or corner back. "I have no doubt about that as a rookie."
QB Plummer Wants WR Lelie To Return This Season
Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News
WR Ashley Lelie was understandably upset when the team traded for star receiver Javon Walker, formerly of the Green Bay Packers. Quarterback Jake Plummer had this to say on the subject, ""I love Ashley. I think he's a great football player. He's a great receiver," Plummer said. "As far as him being our No. 1, until he overtakes Rod Smith, that's just not going to happen." Plummer didn't put it past Lelie to beat out Walker because of his talent. Still, that's something Lelie believes won't happen because of Walker's contract status.
Dolphins Rookie WR Hagan Vows To Have Impact
Nick Piecoro, Arizona Republic
The Miami Dolphins drafted rookie receiver Derek Hagan of Arizona State in the third down of the Draft this past weekend, further down than he expected to be. ""Now that I'm a Miami Dolphin," he told reporters in a conference call, "every other team that passed me up, I'm definitely waiting to play against those teams. I think they can just expect me to produce. I feel like I'm one of those players who can come in and definitely help the team out right away."
Coach Linehan Aggressive In Draft With Rams
Steve Korte, Belleville News-Democrat
New Rams head coach Scott Linehan is known for his attacking style on the field. This past weekend, he showed he is aggressive in other aspects of the game, wheeling and dealing to get what the Rams organization wants. The Rams made three trades and wound up with 10 picks in the 2006 NFL Draft this weekend. "We wanted to accumulate talent," Linehan said. "The only way to do that is to have more picks than everybody else. It went the way we wanted, and it doesn't always work that way but we would be happy to take one of those guys, but it just so happened to work out just the way we hoped."
Rookie RB Harrison Used To 'Small' Talk
WWMT - Digital Channel 3
Rookie RB Jerome Harrison of Washington State was expecting to go in the first day of the NFL Draft. However he didn't go until the fifth round to the Cleveland Browns despite setting a school record 1,900 rushing yards last year. The reason he wasn't drafted early is his slender frame. He's only 5'11 and 199 pounds and many feel he is too light to be effective at the next level. "The story of my life is I start at the bottom and work my way to the top. I'll just have to do that again." Harrison said.
QB Plummer Still The Man
Andrew Mason, DenverBroncos.com
The Denver Broncos drafted QB Jay Cutler with the No. 11 pick of the first round. QB Jake Plummer understood why. "I wouldn't have turned down the opportunity to get a guy like him had the chance come up," Plummer. GM Ted Sundquist reiterated that Plummer is the #1 QB, "Certainly the idea is that Jake remains our quarterback. I think any initial year for a rookie quarterback is always a learning year ... This is my fifth year as a GM and I'm still learning."
CB Jones A No-show
Jim Wyatt, Tennessean
Tennessee Titans CB Pacman Jones has not been attending the team's offseason conditioning program lately. Coach Jeff Fisher isn't pleased. "He knows where I stand on this, and this is his choice," Fisher said of Jones. "Keith (Bullock) has excelled and performed on the field at a very high level consistently for a number of years, Pac has not. … I have reason to believe he is working out. Beyond that, I don't know."
Gruden Excited By Versatility
Stephen F. Holder, St. Petersburg Times
" . . . I know you need versatile linemen in this league, guys who can (move) out here for a week or (move) out there for four weeks . . . ", said Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Grudent. The Bucs have brought in several lineman who can play a variety of positions up front.
Upgrading Lineman Priority One
Reuben Frank, PhillyBurbs.com
Three of the Philadelphia Eagles' first four picks in the draft were linemen, two offensive, one defensive. “We got some big guys,” Reid said. “You can't have enough of those guys. I've always said that's where your offense and defense start.”
Miami Cleared Of Any Wrongdoing
Jason Cole, Miami Herald
The NFL said the Dolphins were within their rights to discuss contract terms with QB Joey Harrington once the Detroit Lions gave Harrington permission to seek a trade. Lions president Matt Millen had complained that the Dolphins went outside the boundaries of the collective bargaining agreement.
CB Rolle's Knee Bothersome
Kent Somers, Arizona Republic
Arizona Cardinals CB Antrel Rolle is still having problems with his left knee. He did some drills on the sideline but looked to have a limp. Surgery may be needed.
Titans Consider Veteran QBs Available
Terry McCormick, The City Paper
The Tennessee Titans may already be looking at veteran QBs to compete for the job in the event that QB Steve McNair is gone. QBs Kerry Collins and Tommy Maddox are among the players available.
Falcons Holding Onto RB Duckett For Now
Mike Prisuta, Tribune-Review
The Atlanta Falcons are holding onto RB T.J. Duckett for now. They have fielded several offers for him. The Falcons want to get a good look at rookie RB Jerious Norwood before moving Duckett.
QB Dilfer Seeks Trade
Jeff Schudel, News-Herald
Cleveland Browns QB Trent Dilfer wants to be traded because he is unhappy with his situation with the Browns. The 49ers are said to be the team interested in Dilfer as a backup for QB Alex Smith. Dilfer wants to play for the 49ers, according to a source in San Francisco, because they are the closest team to his hometown of Fresno, Calif.
Steelers RB V. Haynes To Assume "Bettis" Role In Offense?
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, via CBS Sportsline.com
After attempts at a potential trade for Atlanta Falcons running back T.J. Duckett failed, the Pittsburgh Steelers seem intent upon having running back Verron Haynes filling the void that was left in the offense when former Steelers running back Jerome Bettis retired following the Super Bowl.
Bengals WR C. Henry Investigated For Sex Crime
Dennis Janson, Jay Warren, WCPO.com
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry is currently being investigated by Kenton County prosecutors related to what is being called an "alleged crime of a sexual nature." No further information related to the alleged incident is available at this time.
QB McNair's Potential Deal To Ravens Dead?
Jim Wyatt, Tennessean.com
According to Tennessee Titans General Manager Floyd Reese, a potential trade of quarterback Steve McNair to the Baltimore Ravens is dead. "The Baltimore thing, in my mind, is dead. I haven't talked to them in a few days so I assume it was a one-shot deal. Now could that change? Sure. We'll just have to see what happens."
WR Chad Johnson Confident Bengals Will Dominate
Joe Kay, Lowell Sun Online
WR Chad Johnson is never one to mince words. He insists that the Cincinnati Bengals will not only win their division this season, they'll dominate it. "We're going to be good," Johnson said Wednesday, following a workout at Paul Brown Stadium. "Anyone else that feels we're not going to dominate the AFC North this year, something's wrong. Look at the numbers. Look at the players. Look at me. What else could I say?"
Texans Had A Great Draft
John McClain, Houston Chronicle
Now that we're beyond the emotional responses that were so hysterical they were laughable, let's examine the reasoning behind the Houston Texans' decision to draft defensive end Mario Williams over running back Reggie Bush. First of all, let's reiterate that our first two choices were Vince Young and Bush, but that being said, it's clear to anyone who knows anything about the NFL that the Texans had a terrific draft on paper.
Lions Rookies To Meet At Rookie Camp
Chrissie Zavicar, DetroitLions.com
What this weekend will do is begin the process of preparing the Detroit Lions rookies to take that step up from college to the NFL. “Why do you have a rookie mini-camp?” said Head Coach Rod Marinelli. “First of all you want to get as many men here that create a team atmosphere so the guys we drafted and our free agents have a great opportunity to get a full team setting of practice.”
WR Walker Seeks To Prove His Worth
Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News
Javon Walker's contract with the Denver Broncos is nearly done. Soon, he'll begin trying to prove on the field he's nowhere close to being finished as an NFL star after a torn right knee ligament ended last season almost before it started. The receiver, who was dealt Saturday by the Green Bay Packers to the Denver Broncos for a second-round draft pick, is completing his yearly training routine in Arizona.
RB Drew Enters Jaguars Running Game Debate
Vito Stellino, The Florida Times-Union
Jacksonville Jaguars rookie running back Maurice Drew had no idea he'll be a central figure in what is likely to be the most intriguing drama during the Jaguars' training camp: the future of veteran running back Fred Taylor in Jacksonville. If Drew can prove he can combine with Greg Jones to form the Jaguars' 1-2 running back punch, the Jaguars could decide they don't need Taylor and his $2.55-million salary.
RB R. Williams Heading North?
FoxSports.com
Miami Dolphins running back Ricky Williams appears open to playing for the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League next season. However, it remains unclear as to whether the Dolphins were OK with it. Williams, who is under contract with the Dolphins through the 2008 season, must receive permission from the team to play in the CFL. The Dolphins have the right to prevent Williams from playing elsewhere because of a standard clause in NFL contracts.
Vikings Personnel Director Foley Fired
Associated Press
Fran Foley, the Minnesota Vikings' personnel director, was fired by the team on Wednesday after acknowledging there were inaccuracies on the resume he presented to the team when he was hired in January. Foley had signed a three-year contract with Minnesota, coming over from the San Diego Chargers.
TE Mills Is Mr. Versatility
Tom Casale, Patriots Football Weekly
The Patriots surprised a lot of people when they selected Garrett Mills in the fourth round of this year's draft. Some questioned why New England would take a tight end with back-to-back picks. However, looking closer at Mills, it's obvious he's much more than just a TE. Mills isn’t sure where he’ll play in New England but he’s prepared to contribute in any way he can. “I’m going to come into this organization and do whatever is asked of me,” Mills said. “If Coach Belichick asks me to play a little tight end, I’ll do that. If it’s fullback, I’ll do that. If it’s a little bit of both, even better."
QB Jacobs' Stats Led Team to Claim Third MAC QB
Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
As with fellow Mid-American Conference QB Ben Roethlisberger, Omar Jacobs figured an NFL team would draft him in the first round. He did not think that team would be the Steelers. He was wrong on both counts. He was drafted in the fifth round, and it was the Steelers who did so. "I'm prepared to learn," Jacobs said. He went on saying, "Just to be a guy and just to come in and compete. I'm a competitor and I'm going to compete for the job. Ben is a great QB. If I have to sit for a while, and, if my time comes, it will come. I think I have to be patient to some degree and I want to be patient in Pittsburgh."
Trade Value Key To QB McNair Deal
Jim Wyatt, Tennessean.com
On Sunday, Steve McNair called Vince Young to wish him good luck. It seems just a matter of time before he'll call to tell him goodbye. The good friends and may not be teammates for long. The Titans and Ravens are discussing a trade for McNair, and all that's holding it up is what the Titans will get in return. Now that the draft is over, however, the value of picks in the 2007 draft has gone up, Titans GM Floyd Reese said. There are indications that the trade could be made immediately if the two sides agree on compensation, but the Titans are also willing to wait until June to make a decision.
CB Zemaitis May Be Perfect Fit
Chris Harry, Orlando Sentinel
More than one scouting service projected Penn State CB Alan Zemaitis as an ideal fit into the cover-2 scheme. It only makes sense that he was gobbled up by the cover-2 masters. Tampa Bay made Zemaitis their first pick on the second day of the NFL draft, fortifying a secondary manned by two outstanding -- but 30-something -- cornerbacks in Ronde Barber and Brian Kelly. Zemaitis will be weaned at the critical corner and nickel spots as a backup to Barber.
DT Oshinowo Could Be Lost Gem
Jeff Walcoff, ClevelandBrowns.com
Several years from now, the Browns may have gotten their steal of the '06 draft in Stanford defensive tackle Babatunde Oshinowo, taken in the sixth round. Oshinowo has been scouted as an ideal lineman for a 3-4 defense and had an outstanding 2006 Senior Bowl. He was projected by many as a sure Day 1 pick, until what Oshinowo called a combine that "wasn't the best representation of what I could do on the field." After the tough combine performance, Oshinowo's stock fell and the Browns were able to snatch him late in the draft.
QB Van Pelt Ready To Compete
Andrew Mason, DenverBroncos.com
Denver Broncos QB Bradlee Van Pelt wants the backup QB job. But he realizes he'll need to work hard for it now with top pick QB Jay Cutler in the fold. "I don't want to speculate where I'm going to begin," he said. "Hell, they could bring in someone else and I could begin at 5 (on the depth chart). It's not going to faze me. I've been there before. I've sat there in the exact same chair being No. 5."
CB Ratliff Eyes Starting Gig
Kevin Goheen, Cincinnati Post
CB Keiwan Ratliff put himself on notice long before the Cincinnati Bengals selected CB Johnathan Joseph in the first round of last weekend's NFL draft. The Columbus native saw the tape of his games last season, and he wasn't impressed with what he saw. That kind of self-criticism can be a little harsh but even family members and those close to Ratliff were telling him they sensed something wasn't completely right with him last season.
QB Brees Progressing
Kevin Acee, Union-Tribune
Although New Orleans QB Drew Brees has long acknowledged the possibility that recovery from the torn labrum in his throwing shoulder could take longer, he has always believed he will be ready for the start of the season. “I've been throwing for almost four weeks,” Brees said. In that the beginning of May was his target date to begin throwing following his shoulder surgery in January, Brees was told that must mean he remains ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation.
Cardinals LBs Dinged Up
Kent Somers, Arizona Republic
Arizona Cardinals coach Dennis Green is worried about the health of his linebackers Starting outside linebacker Karlos Dansby didn't practice because of a hamstring strain. Middle linebacker Gerald Hayes, expected to be the starter, isn't practicing after missing all of last year with a knee injury.
QB Navarre Not Fazed By QB Leinart
Kent Somers, Arizona Republic
Arizona Cardinals QB John Navarre, entering his third season with the team, will now have serious competition to back up QB Kurt Warner. "Hey, I have to compete," he said. "Competition brings out the best. I have to expect that and so does Matt (Leinart) coming in, and I know he does."
WR Lelie Won't Accept #3 Role
Bill Williamson and Mike Klis, Denver Post
Denver WR Ashley Lelie has made it clear that he will not play in Denver if it means he lines up as the third receiver. "Me coming back is definitely out of the question at this point with me being the No. 3 receiver," Lelie said Monday night from Arizona. "There's nothing to mend. There's no solution. ... Let me go somewhere where I can compete."
RB Haynes Wants More Playing Time
Mike Prisuta, Tribune-Review
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Verron Haynes re-established himself as invaluable on third downs and earned himself a new contract for a couple of reasons. Some feel Haynes may be lost in a crowded backfield but Pittsburgh brass feel otherwis: "Don't forget about Verron," Steelers running backs coach Dick Hoak said. Added coach Bill Cowher, "Verron Haynes is a guy you can't overlook."
CB Jones Had Permission To Miss Workouts
Terry McCormick, Nashville City Paper
According to CB PacMan Jones’ agent, the Tennessee Titans knew last week the cornerback would be leaving the team facility and working out on his own until the next organized team activities session for veterans. Michael Huyghue, who represents Jones, said he “decided it would be better for Jones to work out on his own” in light of a pair of off-field incidents where the cornerback’s name was linked in recent days. Huyghue said he telephoned coach Jeff Fisher, who understood the decision.
Giants Keeping Tabs On QB Fiedler
Ralph Vacchiano, Daily News
Ex-Jet QB Jay Fiedler should begin throwing later this month, according to his agent, Brian Levy. The New York Giants have "remained in contact," Levy said. "(But) at this point we are waiting until Jay is able to begin throwing to give him a better opportunity to impress his potential suitors." The Giants are interested in bringing Fiedler to camp to compete with QB Tim Hasselbeck for the backup job.
WR Lelie Fires Agent
Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News
Denver Broncos WR Ashlie Lelie has fired his agents, Michael Sullivan and Doug Hendrickson. It will be his next representation's chore to work out a trade or convince Lelie he would be better served playing out the final year of his contract instead of following through on a holdout threat.
Ravens In No Rush For QB McNair
Jaminson Hensley, Sun-Sentinel
The Baltimore Ravens could suspend further trade talks with the Tennessee Titans, knowing there is a possibility that QB Steve McNair could become a free agent in a couple of weeks. A hearing between the NFL players union and the Titans is set for May 16, when an arbitrator will decide if the team breached its contract with McNair by barring him from working out at its facility.
WR Moss Can't Avoid Comparisons
David Porter, AP
New York Giants WR Sinorice Moss is eager to follow in his brother's footsteps, but he also wants to make a name for himself. He is used to the comparisons but they don't faze him. "It really doesn't bother me. We're going to be compared no matter what," he said. "Santana is Santana and I'm Sinorice, and all I can do is go out and play the best football I can."
5/2 Updates
CB Taylor Signs Deal With Steelers
Len Pasquarelli, ESPN.com
CB Ike Taylor signed the one-year restricted free-afent offer from the Steelers today. The deal is worth 1.57 million and Taylor will be an unrestricted free-agent next year. The Steelers may discuss a long-term contract until then.
California Governor Schwarzenegger Wants Two Teams In L.A.?
NFL.com
If California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger got his wish, the City of Los Angeles would become the new home for two NFL franchises, not just one. When asked to discuss his goals for attending a recent meeting with NFL owners, Schwarzenegger said that he is hoping "we're getting not only one NFL team to the Los Angeles area, Southern California, but to actually get two teams. That's why I came. Why limit it?"
CB Woodson Cleared For Full Duties
Packers.com
When the Green Bay Packers open mini-camp on Friday, CB Charles Woodson will be in full action. "My heath is fine and I haven't lost any speed," said Woodson, whose 2005 season ended when a teammate broke his fibula Oct. 23 vs. Buffalo. "I'm completely healed. There was really nothing I could do about that. But as far as my health is concerned now, everything's fine." Woodson looks like he could be finally healthy this year.
Titans In No Hurry To Let QB McNair Go
Jamison Hensley, The altimore Sun
The Baltimore Ravens are still waiting for the Tennessee Titans to release QB Steve McNair. They might be waiting for a while. The Titans have stated that they will hold onto McNair until a week before training camp in July if they don't get what they want via trade. It's believed that the Ravens offered a 5th round pick but the Titans demand a 4th. A deal shouldn't take that long since the Titans gave McNair permission to seek a trade.
OT Roaf Not Thinking Of Retirement
AP, ESPN.com
OT Willie Roaf has no more thoughts of retirement, even at 36 years old. If RB Larry Johnson rushes for 2000 yards this year, Roaf wants to be a part of it. Having fellow OL Will Shields come back was a big part of his decision. They won their first playoff game in 13 years last season and now with new OC Mike Solari, there will be more emphasis on the running game. Looks like the Kansas City running game is ready to roll.
LB Webster Signed To One-Year Deal
AP
The Denver Broncos said Tuesday they have signed a one-year contract with free-agent linebacker Nate Webster, reuniting the former Buc with seven-time Pro Bowl safety John Lynch. Webster spent his time in Tampa and Cincinnati as a middle linebacker.
QB Marcus Vick To Attend Mini-Camp
Len Pasquarelli, ESPN
Virginia Tech quarterback Marcus Vick will attend the Miami Dolphins' rookie mini-camp this weekend to audition for the team's coaches and personnel officials. Vick is still unsigned, but obviously hopes to make enough of an impression to get a deal with Miami.
LB McIntosh Feels The Pressure
Howard Bryant, Washington Post
LB Rocky McIntosh is being charged with replacing former pro-bowler Lavar Arrington, and he's just fine with that. "I'm just glad they picked me up. I'm used to the pressure. People can label me and say whatever they want, but I've got a job to do" McIntosh said.
S Manning Confident Despite Poor College Competition
ESPN Wire
Safety Danieal Manning doubts his lack of Division I college football experience will hinder his efforts to make a splash in the NFL. In fact, Manning is certain he can be a starter this year. "Deep down inside, I really know I could," said Manning, who can play safety or corner back. "I have no doubt about that as a rookie."
QB Plummer Wants WR Lelie To Return This Season
Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News
WR Ashley Lelie was understandably upset when the team traded for star receiver Javon Walker, formerly of the Green Bay Packers. Quarterback Jake Plummer had this to say on the subject, ""I love Ashley. I think he's a great football player. He's a great receiver," Plummer said. "As far as him being our No. 1, until he overtakes Rod Smith, that's just not going to happen." Plummer didn't put it past Lelie to beat out Walker because of his talent. Still, that's something Lelie believes won't happen because of Walker's contract status.
Dolphins Rookie WR Hagan Vows To Have Impact
Nick Piecoro, Arizona Republic
The Miami Dolphins drafted rookie receiver Derek Hagan of Arizona State in the third down of the Draft this past weekend, further down than he expected to be. ""Now that I'm a Miami Dolphin," he told reporters in a conference call, "every other team that passed me up, I'm definitely waiting to play against those teams. I think they can just expect me to produce. I feel like I'm one of those players who can come in and definitely help the team out right away."
Coach Linehan Aggressive In Draft With Rams
Steve Korte, Belleville News-Democrat
New Rams head coach Scott Linehan is known for his attacking style on the field. This past weekend, he showed he is aggressive in other aspects of the game, wheeling and dealing to get what the Rams organization wants. The Rams made three trades and wound up with 10 picks in the 2006 NFL Draft this weekend. "We wanted to accumulate talent," Linehan said. "The only way to do that is to have more picks than everybody else. It went the way we wanted, and it doesn't always work that way but we would be happy to take one of those guys, but it just so happened to work out just the way we hoped."
Rookie RB Harrison Used To 'Small' Talk
WWMT - Digital Channel 3
Rookie RB Jerome Harrison of Washington State was expecting to go in the first day of the NFL Draft. However he didn't go until the fifth round to the Cleveland Browns despite setting a school record 1,900 rushing yards last year. The reason he wasn't drafted early is his slender frame. He's only 5'11 and 199 pounds and many feel he is too light to be effective at the next level. "The story of my life is I start at the bottom and work my way to the top. I'll just have to do that again." Harrison said.
QB Plummer Still The Man
Andrew Mason, DenverBroncos.com
The Denver Broncos drafted QB Jay Cutler with the No. 11 pick of the first round. QB Jake Plummer understood why. "I wouldn't have turned down the opportunity to get a guy like him had the chance come up," Plummer. GM Ted Sundquist reiterated that Plummer is the #1 QB, "Certainly the idea is that Jake remains our quarterback. I think any initial year for a rookie quarterback is always a learning year ... This is my fifth year as a GM and I'm still learning."
CB Jones A No-show
Jim Wyatt, Tennessean
Tennessee Titans CB Pacman Jones has not been attending the team's offseason conditioning program lately. Coach Jeff Fisher isn't pleased. "He knows where I stand on this, and this is his choice," Fisher said of Jones. "Keith (Bullock) has excelled and performed on the field at a very high level consistently for a number of years, Pac has not. … I have reason to believe he is working out. Beyond that, I don't know."
Gruden Excited By Versatility
Stephen F. Holder, St. Petersburg Times
" . . . I know you need versatile linemen in this league, guys who can (move) out here for a week or (move) out there for four weeks . . . ", said Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Grudent. The Bucs have brought in several lineman who can play a variety of positions up front.
Upgrading Lineman Priority One
Reuben Frank, PhillyBurbs.com
Three of the Philadelphia Eagles' first four picks in the draft were linemen, two offensive, one defensive. “We got some big guys,” Reid said. “You can't have enough of those guys. I've always said that's where your offense and defense start.”
Miami Cleared Of Any Wrongdoing
Jason Cole, Miami Herald
The NFL said the Dolphins were within their rights to discuss contract terms with QB Joey Harrington once the Detroit Lions gave Harrington permission to seek a trade. Lions president Matt Millen had complained that the Dolphins went outside the boundaries of the collective bargaining agreement.
CB Rolle's Knee Bothersome
Kent Somers, Arizona Republic
Arizona Cardinals CB Antrel Rolle is still having problems with his left knee. He did some drills on the sideline but looked to have a limp. Surgery may be needed.
Titans Consider Veteran QBs Available
Terry McCormick, The City Paper
The Tennessee Titans may already be looking at veteran QBs to compete for the job in the event that QB Steve McNair is gone. QBs Kerry Collins and Tommy Maddox are among the players available.
Falcons Holding Onto RB Duckett For Now
Mike Prisuta, Tribune-Review
The Atlanta Falcons are holding onto RB T.J. Duckett for now. They have fielded several offers for him. The Falcons want to get a good look at rookie RB Jerious Norwood before moving Duckett.
QB Dilfer Seeks Trade
Jeff Schudel, News-Herald
Cleveland Browns QB Trent Dilfer wants to be traded because he is unhappy with his situation with the Browns. The 49ers are said to be the team interested in Dilfer as a backup for QB Alex Smith. Dilfer wants to play for the 49ers, according to a source in San Francisco, because they are the closest team to his hometown of Fresno, Calif.