Post by John on May 11, 2006 13:35:53 GMT -4
5/12 Updates
MIA - DET - QB Harrington Dealt For Sixth-Rounder
Source: Jason Cole, Miami Herald
The Dolphins acquired quarterback Joey Harrington from Detroit today for a conditional sixth-round pick in the 2007 draft. The pick can increase to a fifth-round pick if Harrington receives significant playing time. Harrington is expected to join the team this weekend in time for practices with the Dolphins next week.
JAX - Jaguars Look To Replace Smith
Source: Mark Long, AP
We don't have a Jimmy Smith on the team now," Matt Jones said Friday after the start of the team's three-day minicamp. "We don't have somebody that's that good. He was the best route-runner I've ever seen and one of the best receivers I've ever been around. "You can't really replace him. We're going to have to try to get better and hopefully some of us can do that, but it's going to be tough to do." "I don't know if we have a (No. 1 receiver) right now," Jones said. "We have a lot of good receivers out here that are going to be able to compete. I think it will make us all better having that job open. It will make each of us better."
JAX - Jaguars WR Hankton Healthy After Injury-Plagued 2005 Season
Source: Associated Press, via ESPN.com
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Cortez Hankton is fully recovered from ankle surgery and a hamstring injury which kept him on the inactive list for a majority of the 2005 season. With the recent retirement of wide receiver Jimmy Smith, Hankton could be a factor in the competition for increased playing time as a result of the vacancy.
JAX - RB Taylor Sharp In First Practice
Source: Vic Ketchman, jaguars.com
If the first practice of mini-camp means anything, and most would say it doesn't, it at least pronounced RB Fred Taylor light, tight and quicker on his feet than anyone has seen him in a long time. His hands even looked soft in passing drills. Taylor had Jaguars scouts turning their heads and giving each other looks of satisfaction. That's how quick Taylor was in Friday morning's opening practice of mini-camp.
IND - Starting Offensive Line Returns Intact
Source: John Oehser, Colts.com
One area in which the Colts sustained no losses this off-season: The offensive line. Last season, the Colts started the same line - OT Ryan Diem, OG Jake Scott, C Jeff Saturday, OG Ryan Lilja and OT Tarik Glenn - in the first 14 games. All of those players return, as does OG Dylan Gandy, who started last season's final two games. The Colts recently selected two tackles - OT Michael Toudouze and OT Charlie Johnson - on the second day of the 2006 NFL Draft. "Since I've been here, that's the model they use," Saturday said. "It has worked".
NYJ - Jets' QB Pennington 'Full Go' For Camp?
Source: Ken Berger, Newsday
Optimistic and confident as ever, QB Chad Pennington proclaimed last night that he is "full go" in his comeback from a second shoulder operation in as many years and is digging in to fight for his starting job in training camp - maybe even sooner. "Full go means I'm throwing every route we have in the playbook," the Jets quarterback said last night at a fundraiser in Manhattan. "I feel really good about it." Pennington said he's still working on building up strength and velocity, but said, "I don't have any doubts or concerns. "If I was a betting man in Vegas," he added, "I'd put money on No. 10."
HOU - Texans Working On Deal For RB M.Bennett
Source: Megan Manfull, Houston Chronicle
The team is in talks with the Saints in hopes of acquiring veteran RB Michael Bennett via trade. The Texans already have RB Domanick Davis, RB Antowain Smith and RB Vernand Morency, but they are seeking more depth. Davis is coming off a knee injury that sidelined him for five games last year. Smith is 34 years old and considered a situational back. Morency is inexperienced as he enters his second season. Bennett has struggled because of injuries. Last season was the first time since 2002 that he was healthy enough to play in all 16 games.
MIA - QB Culpepper Rehab Ahead Of Schedule
Source: Armando Salguero, Miami Herald
Until now the team and the player have been guarded in their comments about the rehab so as to not set high expectations and then disappoint fans if those expectations aren't met. But privately, the team is absolutely thrilled with Culpepper's continuing return to health. When the OTA days start on Monday, Culpepper will be allowed to make limited rollouts in yet another sign of progress for the knee. His most recent visit to Dr. James Andrews, who performed the surgery last November, showed that Culpepper is nearly at 100 percent extension on the knee. Now that doesn't guarantee he will not suffer a setback. And players recovering from reconstructive surgery such as this typically aren't back to their old selves for up to 24 months after the surgery.
KC - Chiefs Lighten Minicamp Workload Under Edwards
Source: Adam Teicher, Kansas City Star
One of the things the Chiefs lost with the departure of Dick Vermeil was the grueling 2 1/2 -hour practice session that often left players grumbling. One of the things they gained by hiring Herman Edwards as his replacement is the sub-two-hour practice that leaves them more refreshed. Edwards unveils the Chiefs' new practice regimen in a three-day, partial-squad minicamp that begins today. The Chiefs will practice five times, and none of the workouts is scheduled to last more than 1 1/2 hours.
DEF - TEN - Titans DT Haynesworth Surrenders To Authorities
Source: Associated Press, via ESPN.com
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, facing charges of reckless endangerment after allegedly attempting to run a car off the road with his truck, surrendered to authorities on Friday. Haynesworth was later released on a $1,000 bond. Neither the Titans, Haynesworth or Haynesworth's agent could be reached for comment.
5/11 Updates
JAX - WR Smith Retires
Source: Mark Long, AP
A five-time Pro Bowl selection who overcame several health problems and a drug addiction during his 13 seasons, Smith abruptly retired Thursday to "move on to the next phase of my life." "It's hard because I know I can still go out there and do it," Smith said. "I just figure it's not in my heart to (continue). If I'm going to play, it's got to be 100 percent. I won't get out there and not give it my all. If I can't give it my all to this organization and the fans, I'm just not going to do that. This is just not the type of person that I am. "It's best for me to leave on a high note. I want to be able to enjoy my legacy."
Smith said the retirement had nothing do with the issues that earned him a four game suspension in 2003 for violating the league's substance abuse policy. "I've been playing 37 years," he said. "It is time for me to retire. I'm tired, so leave it at that."
CLE - QB Frye On TE Winslow's Return: 'It will be huge'
Source: Len Pasquarelli, ESPN.com
Winslow, of course, has played in just two games in two seasons, victimized his rookie year by his own hustle, when he threw himself into a pile attempting to recover an onside kick, and then last spring by his indiscretion, as he wrecked his knee and dented his bank account with his ill-advised motorcycle escapades. But there is still a chance for the wondrously talented Winslow to go from the ESPN.com "all-scar" team to a Pro Bowl berth, and the fortunes of Frye and the Browns figure to be significantly enhanced if the tight end can return whole from his injuries. "It will be huge," said Frye of Winslow's pending return.
CIN - WR C.Johnson Likes QB Palmer's Chances
Source: Chick Ludwig, Dayton Daily News
Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson spoke in a hushed tone when asked if he believes quarterback Carson Palmer will start the Sept. 10 opener at Kansas City. Palmer had left-knee surgery on Jan. 10. "I'm not supposed to say that," Johnson whispered during Wednesday's open locker room, "but I think so. He's walking around, running and lifting (weights), doing everything everyone else does. So I think he's going to be ready to go. When you watch him, you'd think there's nothing wrong with him. You wouldn't know he got hurt."
STL - More Touches Per Game For RB S.Jackson?
Source: Bill Coats, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
OC Greg Olson has sketched out a plan to get RB Steven Jackson at least 20 touches per game, with able support (10 to 12 touches) from RB Marshall Faulk. In 2005, his first season as the team's primary back, Jackson got as many as 20 carries just three times; he averaged 129 yards as the Rams went 3-0 in those games. "If you can get the ball to him 20 times or more, he seems to get better," Olson said. "We think that's a good number to shoot for. He's one of our primary weapons that needs to get more touches."
In fact, coach Olsen sounds like he wants Faulk more involved than last year when Faulk had 109 touches: "We're anticipating that he's going to come back healthy," Olson said. "We still think he's going to be good for 10 to 12 touches a game and can still be an explosive player in that role."
GB - WR Driver Gets Two Year Extension
Source: Rob Demovsky, PackerNews.com
Green Bay Packers receiver Donald Driver has signed a two-year contract extension that runs through 2009. Driver's agent, Jordan Woy, confirmed the deal in an email to the Press-Gazette on Thursday afternoon. Driver had two years left on his contract, but according to Woy, he now has a four-year deal worth $17 million.
NO - RB M.Bennett On Trading Block
Source: Len Pasquerelli, ESPN.com
Less than two months after signing with the New Orleans Saints as the presumptive caddy to Deuce McAllister, veteran tailback Michael Bennett could find his career on a different course for 2006. Saints officials have spoken to representatives from at least two other teams, with the most in-depth discussions occurring with the Houston Texans and Miami Dolphins.
DEN - WR J.Walker Had Second Knee Surgery
Source: Joseph Sanchez, Denver Post
About a month ago, WR Javon Walker had a second surgery on his right knee, which had sidelined him for most of the 2005 season after he suffered a torn ACL in the first game. Is this guy damaged goods? "No," Walker said. "That second surgery was just to check and see if everything was healing correctly". Walker said he is limited to straight-ahead running. "I feel good," he said. "I'm obviously taking time with it, but when I get to full speed ahead, I'll know."
DAL - Parcells 'Hopes' OL Is Better
Source: Nick Eatman, DallasCowboys.com
In fact, Parcells doesn't agree with the notion the Cowboys haven't addressed the position this off-season. To him, the free-agent signings of Jason Fabini and Kyle Kosier, not to mention the return of Flozell Adams, should be enough to upgrade the position over last year. "The problem on the offensive line only started when we lost our left tackle," Parcells said in reference to Adams, who suffered a torn ACL in his left knee and missed the last 10 games of the season. "We weren't doing too bad when he was there. I'm concerned about it (but) we signed two free agents. We have a couple of young guys coming along. We had economic problems with Larry (Allen) that were serious. We weren't going to able to do much. Hopefully, we'll be all right." There seems to be a lot of hope, especially for May.
SEA - Holmgren Wants To Stay In Seattle
Source: AP
Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren wants to coach beyond next season, and it appears Seattle would like him to stay. "I would like to (coach again)," an upbeat and relaxed Holmgren said after Seattle's final practice of a veteran minicamp Thursday. "And I think they want me to. So, we'll see ... I think they like me OK."
SF - QB Smith Can't Wait To Get A Grip
Source: Matthew Barrows. Sacramento Bee
Team owners agreed to a rule change that NFL quarterbacks have wanted for years during the league meeting in Orlando. Previously, all of the footballs used in a game were supplied by the home team, and, naturally, were tailored to the home quarterback's liking. If the home quarterback preferred the ball nice and slick, the visiting quarterback would have to adjust. The new rule will allow teams to travel with a dozen of their own balls and to put them in play when their offense takes the field.
STL - QB Bulger Given Freedom To Audible
Source: Bill Coats, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Also, Bulger will be allowed to audible, a luxury he didn't have under former coach Mike Martz. That should allow him to check out of some perilous situations. When healthy, Bulger ranks among the league's elite, Olson maintained. "He has such great anticipation, and he's extremely accurate. I think he's got some special qualities," Olson said.
HOU - Broncos' Smith, Packers' McKenzie Top General Manager List
Source: John McClain, Houston Chronicle
Although the search for GM Charley Casserly's replacement will not begin for at least another week, expect Denver assistant GM Rick Smith and Green Bay director of pro personnel Reggie McKenzie to emerge as leading candidates. Smith has a long association with Texans HC Gary Kubiak. They worked together in Denver for 10 years. When Texans assistant HC/offense Mike Sherman was Green Bay's head coach for six years, he worked closely with McKenzie.
DEF - KC - HC Edwards Hopes To Lure CB Law To Chiefs
Source: Elizabeth Merrill, Kansas City Star
On Wednesday, HC Herm Edwards was sounding more and more like a man who wants to get CB Ty Law to Kansas City. He said they had a connection long ago, when Edwards scouted him out of college. He conceded that the Chiefs still have a need at cornerback, especially for a veteran who could become a marquee safety. "We didn't sign him in New York until July," he said. "Sometimes those guys wait a little while before they show up and decide to sign. So talks are on, and we'll see where it's at. "He's going to take some visits, but ultimately, he'll have to make a decision".
5/10 Updates
CIN - Latest Update on QB Palmer
Source: Geoff Hobson, Bengals.com
Palmer and his medical and rehab team still don’t have a date when he’ll be cleared for team activity following his Jan. 10 reconstructive left knee surgery. He doubts it is going to be before the July 29 start of training camp. But if he’s being conservative with it, there is also cautious optimism he’ll be cleared for training camp in time to keep the Opening Day goal alive. No one as of yet has taken the opener off the table, and he says he hasn’t had to be eased off his rehab. “I know it would be devastating for the knee and I have to listen to the guys who went to medical school for 40 years,” said Palmer of the things he wishes he can do. “This is a hard time now because the guys are coming around and talking about playing. Palmer doubts he’ll be in team drills in May and June, but the June 15-17 mandatory minicamp that closes up shop is still nearly six weeks away from training camp. He could be jogging on the side by the end of this month’s sessions.
DEN - WR Walker Will Be 'A Step Faster'
Source: Andrew Mason, DenverBroncos.com
Javon Walker wanted one point known -- that when he is back to 100 percent, he would be "a step faster" than he was before he tore an anterior cruciate ligament. He also said that moment would "most definitely" happen this year. "I already know how I work," Walker said. "I've been through injuries before where you know I wasn't supposed to be as strong, I wasn't supposed to be as quick, I wasn't supposed to be as fast, and I've proven it time and time again. And I don't see my mentality changing."
"The target is to have him ready once we go to camp," Shanahan said then. "He is still recovering from his ACL, and I don't want to push him along too quickly. He went through all the physicals with our trainers and doctors, and he should be ready to go full-speed by the time we start camp."
ATL - WR Pathon Re-Signed By Falcons
Source: Steve Wyche, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Falcons re-signed free agent WR Jerome Pathon on Tuesday, a move that adds experience to a unit lacking in depth, HC Jim Mora said. Pathon saw action in eight games with Atlanta last season, mostly on special teams. He had one catch for 18 yards. WR Roddy White and WR Michael Jenkins are the starters, with WR Brian Finneran the third receiver.
HOU - Texans GM Casserly Officially Out
Source: Megan Manfull, Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans general manager Charley Casserly resigned after six years at the position, ending weeks of speculation regarding his future with the organization. Casserly, who joined the franchise in 2000, had spent more than a month deflecting questions regarding his future plans. He and Texans owner Bob McNair said repeatedly that they preferred instead to focus on the NFL draft for the past few weeks.
WAS - TE Fauria Wanted To Go To A Winner
Source: Gary Fitzgerald, Redskins.com
Washington Redskins tight end Christian Fauria said that he was deliberate in choosing the next team that he was going to play for. When Washington indicated interest, Fauria did his research on the Redskins and the direction the team is headed. "I just tried to go off of what I knew," Fauria said. "I knew it's a great coaching staff with a Hall of Fame coach in Joe Gibbs. You have a lot of veteran coaches who really know what it takes to win."
TEN - Rookies Not Back Until May 15
Source: Titans Radio
New Titans Quarterback Vince Young and the rest of the rookie class will be back in Nashville after May 15, based on an NFL rule. The rule prohibits rookies from participating in on-field activities, workouts, or classroom work until their current semester ends. The rule allows only the opening weekend of rookie workouts. ''It's kind of crazy, if you ask me,'' Young told the Tennessean. ''I guess a rule is rule, but I don't know why. I think once you are a part of an organization, you should let the person interact with their teammates and coaches; that is their new family.'' The NFL installed the rule to keep teams from forcing seniors to choose mini camps over final exams.
JAX - QB Leftwich Downplays His Weight
Source: Vito Stellino, The Florida Times-Union
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Byron Leftwich appeared to be leaner than he was last year, and he said the broken ankle that sidelined him for the final five regular-season games last year has completely healed. Except for conceding that he has lost weight in the offseason, Leftwich, listed at 6-feet-5 and 240 pounds, wouldn't say what his current weight is. "I'm a big guy," he said. "I've always been a big guy, but I've never not been in shape. I guarantee you that."
MIN - RB Moore To Be 'Somewhat Limited' For Minicamp
Source: Kevin Seifert, Star Tribune
Running back Mewelde Moore (wrist) will be somewhat limited, Childress said.
DEF - STL - New Look On Defense For Rams
Source: Bill Coats, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
DE Leonard Little and DE Anthony Hargrove are expected to regain their jobs, LB Pisa Tinoisamoa isn't likely to be uprooted at strongside linebacker, and third-year pro LB Brandon Chillar appears to have the edge at weakside. The seven other spots could be filled with new starters by opening day - Sept. 2 vs. Denver.
New Rams DC Jim Haslett seems intent on improving this defense: "I think the whole defense has to play better than they played the last couple of years, especially on the run game," Haslett said. "I want our defensive team to be tough-minded and physical. But I also want them to be good (at) technique, smart, and I want them to be good tacklers. And I don't think it was a good tackling football team last year."
DEF - KC - Chiefs Putting The Pieces Together On Defense
Source: Elizabeth Merrill, The Kansas City Star
Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham has been lobbying hard for the team to take top notch defensive talent in the draft over the last couple of years. The team is finally making some progress toward that goal. "This draft killed me," Cunningham said. "This year, defense came off the board at 100 mph, and I panicked. I went, ‘My God, we can’t get our guys.’ And fortunately for us, Tamba Hali was there at 20."
“I think the pieces are being put in place for real football, not for stopgap,” Cunningham said. “People can say, ‘Well, you could’ve done this or could’ve done that.’ But when you try to outscheme people, you’re going to bat .500. No, what you’ve got to do is line up 11 guys who can play defense. Because if you bat .500 in the NFL, you’re going to get fired.”
MIA - DET - QB Harrington Dealt For Sixth-Rounder
Source: Jason Cole, Miami Herald
The Dolphins acquired quarterback Joey Harrington from Detroit today for a conditional sixth-round pick in the 2007 draft. The pick can increase to a fifth-round pick if Harrington receives significant playing time. Harrington is expected to join the team this weekend in time for practices with the Dolphins next week.
JAX - Jaguars Look To Replace Smith
Source: Mark Long, AP
We don't have a Jimmy Smith on the team now," Matt Jones said Friday after the start of the team's three-day minicamp. "We don't have somebody that's that good. He was the best route-runner I've ever seen and one of the best receivers I've ever been around. "You can't really replace him. We're going to have to try to get better and hopefully some of us can do that, but it's going to be tough to do." "I don't know if we have a (No. 1 receiver) right now," Jones said. "We have a lot of good receivers out here that are going to be able to compete. I think it will make us all better having that job open. It will make each of us better."
JAX - Jaguars WR Hankton Healthy After Injury-Plagued 2005 Season
Source: Associated Press, via ESPN.com
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Cortez Hankton is fully recovered from ankle surgery and a hamstring injury which kept him on the inactive list for a majority of the 2005 season. With the recent retirement of wide receiver Jimmy Smith, Hankton could be a factor in the competition for increased playing time as a result of the vacancy.
JAX - RB Taylor Sharp In First Practice
Source: Vic Ketchman, jaguars.com
If the first practice of mini-camp means anything, and most would say it doesn't, it at least pronounced RB Fred Taylor light, tight and quicker on his feet than anyone has seen him in a long time. His hands even looked soft in passing drills. Taylor had Jaguars scouts turning their heads and giving each other looks of satisfaction. That's how quick Taylor was in Friday morning's opening practice of mini-camp.
IND - Starting Offensive Line Returns Intact
Source: John Oehser, Colts.com
One area in which the Colts sustained no losses this off-season: The offensive line. Last season, the Colts started the same line - OT Ryan Diem, OG Jake Scott, C Jeff Saturday, OG Ryan Lilja and OT Tarik Glenn - in the first 14 games. All of those players return, as does OG Dylan Gandy, who started last season's final two games. The Colts recently selected two tackles - OT Michael Toudouze and OT Charlie Johnson - on the second day of the 2006 NFL Draft. "Since I've been here, that's the model they use," Saturday said. "It has worked".
NYJ - Jets' QB Pennington 'Full Go' For Camp?
Source: Ken Berger, Newsday
Optimistic and confident as ever, QB Chad Pennington proclaimed last night that he is "full go" in his comeback from a second shoulder operation in as many years and is digging in to fight for his starting job in training camp - maybe even sooner. "Full go means I'm throwing every route we have in the playbook," the Jets quarterback said last night at a fundraiser in Manhattan. "I feel really good about it." Pennington said he's still working on building up strength and velocity, but said, "I don't have any doubts or concerns. "If I was a betting man in Vegas," he added, "I'd put money on No. 10."
HOU - Texans Working On Deal For RB M.Bennett
Source: Megan Manfull, Houston Chronicle
The team is in talks with the Saints in hopes of acquiring veteran RB Michael Bennett via trade. The Texans already have RB Domanick Davis, RB Antowain Smith and RB Vernand Morency, but they are seeking more depth. Davis is coming off a knee injury that sidelined him for five games last year. Smith is 34 years old and considered a situational back. Morency is inexperienced as he enters his second season. Bennett has struggled because of injuries. Last season was the first time since 2002 that he was healthy enough to play in all 16 games.
MIA - QB Culpepper Rehab Ahead Of Schedule
Source: Armando Salguero, Miami Herald
Until now the team and the player have been guarded in their comments about the rehab so as to not set high expectations and then disappoint fans if those expectations aren't met. But privately, the team is absolutely thrilled with Culpepper's continuing return to health. When the OTA days start on Monday, Culpepper will be allowed to make limited rollouts in yet another sign of progress for the knee. His most recent visit to Dr. James Andrews, who performed the surgery last November, showed that Culpepper is nearly at 100 percent extension on the knee. Now that doesn't guarantee he will not suffer a setback. And players recovering from reconstructive surgery such as this typically aren't back to their old selves for up to 24 months after the surgery.
KC - Chiefs Lighten Minicamp Workload Under Edwards
Source: Adam Teicher, Kansas City Star
One of the things the Chiefs lost with the departure of Dick Vermeil was the grueling 2 1/2 -hour practice session that often left players grumbling. One of the things they gained by hiring Herman Edwards as his replacement is the sub-two-hour practice that leaves them more refreshed. Edwards unveils the Chiefs' new practice regimen in a three-day, partial-squad minicamp that begins today. The Chiefs will practice five times, and none of the workouts is scheduled to last more than 1 1/2 hours.
DEF - TEN - Titans DT Haynesworth Surrenders To Authorities
Source: Associated Press, via ESPN.com
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, facing charges of reckless endangerment after allegedly attempting to run a car off the road with his truck, surrendered to authorities on Friday. Haynesworth was later released on a $1,000 bond. Neither the Titans, Haynesworth or Haynesworth's agent could be reached for comment.
5/11 Updates
JAX - WR Smith Retires
Source: Mark Long, AP
A five-time Pro Bowl selection who overcame several health problems and a drug addiction during his 13 seasons, Smith abruptly retired Thursday to "move on to the next phase of my life." "It's hard because I know I can still go out there and do it," Smith said. "I just figure it's not in my heart to (continue). If I'm going to play, it's got to be 100 percent. I won't get out there and not give it my all. If I can't give it my all to this organization and the fans, I'm just not going to do that. This is just not the type of person that I am. "It's best for me to leave on a high note. I want to be able to enjoy my legacy."
Smith said the retirement had nothing do with the issues that earned him a four game suspension in 2003 for violating the league's substance abuse policy. "I've been playing 37 years," he said. "It is time for me to retire. I'm tired, so leave it at that."
CLE - QB Frye On TE Winslow's Return: 'It will be huge'
Source: Len Pasquarelli, ESPN.com
Winslow, of course, has played in just two games in two seasons, victimized his rookie year by his own hustle, when he threw himself into a pile attempting to recover an onside kick, and then last spring by his indiscretion, as he wrecked his knee and dented his bank account with his ill-advised motorcycle escapades. But there is still a chance for the wondrously talented Winslow to go from the ESPN.com "all-scar" team to a Pro Bowl berth, and the fortunes of Frye and the Browns figure to be significantly enhanced if the tight end can return whole from his injuries. "It will be huge," said Frye of Winslow's pending return.
CIN - WR C.Johnson Likes QB Palmer's Chances
Source: Chick Ludwig, Dayton Daily News
Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson spoke in a hushed tone when asked if he believes quarterback Carson Palmer will start the Sept. 10 opener at Kansas City. Palmer had left-knee surgery on Jan. 10. "I'm not supposed to say that," Johnson whispered during Wednesday's open locker room, "but I think so. He's walking around, running and lifting (weights), doing everything everyone else does. So I think he's going to be ready to go. When you watch him, you'd think there's nothing wrong with him. You wouldn't know he got hurt."
STL - More Touches Per Game For RB S.Jackson?
Source: Bill Coats, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
OC Greg Olson has sketched out a plan to get RB Steven Jackson at least 20 touches per game, with able support (10 to 12 touches) from RB Marshall Faulk. In 2005, his first season as the team's primary back, Jackson got as many as 20 carries just three times; he averaged 129 yards as the Rams went 3-0 in those games. "If you can get the ball to him 20 times or more, he seems to get better," Olson said. "We think that's a good number to shoot for. He's one of our primary weapons that needs to get more touches."
In fact, coach Olsen sounds like he wants Faulk more involved than last year when Faulk had 109 touches: "We're anticipating that he's going to come back healthy," Olson said. "We still think he's going to be good for 10 to 12 touches a game and can still be an explosive player in that role."
GB - WR Driver Gets Two Year Extension
Source: Rob Demovsky, PackerNews.com
Green Bay Packers receiver Donald Driver has signed a two-year contract extension that runs through 2009. Driver's agent, Jordan Woy, confirmed the deal in an email to the Press-Gazette on Thursday afternoon. Driver had two years left on his contract, but according to Woy, he now has a four-year deal worth $17 million.
NO - RB M.Bennett On Trading Block
Source: Len Pasquerelli, ESPN.com
Less than two months after signing with the New Orleans Saints as the presumptive caddy to Deuce McAllister, veteran tailback Michael Bennett could find his career on a different course for 2006. Saints officials have spoken to representatives from at least two other teams, with the most in-depth discussions occurring with the Houston Texans and Miami Dolphins.
DEN - WR J.Walker Had Second Knee Surgery
Source: Joseph Sanchez, Denver Post
About a month ago, WR Javon Walker had a second surgery on his right knee, which had sidelined him for most of the 2005 season after he suffered a torn ACL in the first game. Is this guy damaged goods? "No," Walker said. "That second surgery was just to check and see if everything was healing correctly". Walker said he is limited to straight-ahead running. "I feel good," he said. "I'm obviously taking time with it, but when I get to full speed ahead, I'll know."
DAL - Parcells 'Hopes' OL Is Better
Source: Nick Eatman, DallasCowboys.com
In fact, Parcells doesn't agree with the notion the Cowboys haven't addressed the position this off-season. To him, the free-agent signings of Jason Fabini and Kyle Kosier, not to mention the return of Flozell Adams, should be enough to upgrade the position over last year. "The problem on the offensive line only started when we lost our left tackle," Parcells said in reference to Adams, who suffered a torn ACL in his left knee and missed the last 10 games of the season. "We weren't doing too bad when he was there. I'm concerned about it (but) we signed two free agents. We have a couple of young guys coming along. We had economic problems with Larry (Allen) that were serious. We weren't going to able to do much. Hopefully, we'll be all right." There seems to be a lot of hope, especially for May.
SEA - Holmgren Wants To Stay In Seattle
Source: AP
Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren wants to coach beyond next season, and it appears Seattle would like him to stay. "I would like to (coach again)," an upbeat and relaxed Holmgren said after Seattle's final practice of a veteran minicamp Thursday. "And I think they want me to. So, we'll see ... I think they like me OK."
SF - QB Smith Can't Wait To Get A Grip
Source: Matthew Barrows. Sacramento Bee
Team owners agreed to a rule change that NFL quarterbacks have wanted for years during the league meeting in Orlando. Previously, all of the footballs used in a game were supplied by the home team, and, naturally, were tailored to the home quarterback's liking. If the home quarterback preferred the ball nice and slick, the visiting quarterback would have to adjust. The new rule will allow teams to travel with a dozen of their own balls and to put them in play when their offense takes the field.
STL - QB Bulger Given Freedom To Audible
Source: Bill Coats, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Also, Bulger will be allowed to audible, a luxury he didn't have under former coach Mike Martz. That should allow him to check out of some perilous situations. When healthy, Bulger ranks among the league's elite, Olson maintained. "He has such great anticipation, and he's extremely accurate. I think he's got some special qualities," Olson said.
HOU - Broncos' Smith, Packers' McKenzie Top General Manager List
Source: John McClain, Houston Chronicle
Although the search for GM Charley Casserly's replacement will not begin for at least another week, expect Denver assistant GM Rick Smith and Green Bay director of pro personnel Reggie McKenzie to emerge as leading candidates. Smith has a long association with Texans HC Gary Kubiak. They worked together in Denver for 10 years. When Texans assistant HC/offense Mike Sherman was Green Bay's head coach for six years, he worked closely with McKenzie.
DEF - KC - HC Edwards Hopes To Lure CB Law To Chiefs
Source: Elizabeth Merrill, Kansas City Star
On Wednesday, HC Herm Edwards was sounding more and more like a man who wants to get CB Ty Law to Kansas City. He said they had a connection long ago, when Edwards scouted him out of college. He conceded that the Chiefs still have a need at cornerback, especially for a veteran who could become a marquee safety. "We didn't sign him in New York until July," he said. "Sometimes those guys wait a little while before they show up and decide to sign. So talks are on, and we'll see where it's at. "He's going to take some visits, but ultimately, he'll have to make a decision".
5/10 Updates
CIN - Latest Update on QB Palmer
Source: Geoff Hobson, Bengals.com
Palmer and his medical and rehab team still don’t have a date when he’ll be cleared for team activity following his Jan. 10 reconstructive left knee surgery. He doubts it is going to be before the July 29 start of training camp. But if he’s being conservative with it, there is also cautious optimism he’ll be cleared for training camp in time to keep the Opening Day goal alive. No one as of yet has taken the opener off the table, and he says he hasn’t had to be eased off his rehab. “I know it would be devastating for the knee and I have to listen to the guys who went to medical school for 40 years,” said Palmer of the things he wishes he can do. “This is a hard time now because the guys are coming around and talking about playing. Palmer doubts he’ll be in team drills in May and June, but the June 15-17 mandatory minicamp that closes up shop is still nearly six weeks away from training camp. He could be jogging on the side by the end of this month’s sessions.
DEN - WR Walker Will Be 'A Step Faster'
Source: Andrew Mason, DenverBroncos.com
Javon Walker wanted one point known -- that when he is back to 100 percent, he would be "a step faster" than he was before he tore an anterior cruciate ligament. He also said that moment would "most definitely" happen this year. "I already know how I work," Walker said. "I've been through injuries before where you know I wasn't supposed to be as strong, I wasn't supposed to be as quick, I wasn't supposed to be as fast, and I've proven it time and time again. And I don't see my mentality changing."
"The target is to have him ready once we go to camp," Shanahan said then. "He is still recovering from his ACL, and I don't want to push him along too quickly. He went through all the physicals with our trainers and doctors, and he should be ready to go full-speed by the time we start camp."
ATL - WR Pathon Re-Signed By Falcons
Source: Steve Wyche, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Falcons re-signed free agent WR Jerome Pathon on Tuesday, a move that adds experience to a unit lacking in depth, HC Jim Mora said. Pathon saw action in eight games with Atlanta last season, mostly on special teams. He had one catch for 18 yards. WR Roddy White and WR Michael Jenkins are the starters, with WR Brian Finneran the third receiver.
HOU - Texans GM Casserly Officially Out
Source: Megan Manfull, Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans general manager Charley Casserly resigned after six years at the position, ending weeks of speculation regarding his future with the organization. Casserly, who joined the franchise in 2000, had spent more than a month deflecting questions regarding his future plans. He and Texans owner Bob McNair said repeatedly that they preferred instead to focus on the NFL draft for the past few weeks.
WAS - TE Fauria Wanted To Go To A Winner
Source: Gary Fitzgerald, Redskins.com
Washington Redskins tight end Christian Fauria said that he was deliberate in choosing the next team that he was going to play for. When Washington indicated interest, Fauria did his research on the Redskins and the direction the team is headed. "I just tried to go off of what I knew," Fauria said. "I knew it's a great coaching staff with a Hall of Fame coach in Joe Gibbs. You have a lot of veteran coaches who really know what it takes to win."
TEN - Rookies Not Back Until May 15
Source: Titans Radio
New Titans Quarterback Vince Young and the rest of the rookie class will be back in Nashville after May 15, based on an NFL rule. The rule prohibits rookies from participating in on-field activities, workouts, or classroom work until their current semester ends. The rule allows only the opening weekend of rookie workouts. ''It's kind of crazy, if you ask me,'' Young told the Tennessean. ''I guess a rule is rule, but I don't know why. I think once you are a part of an organization, you should let the person interact with their teammates and coaches; that is their new family.'' The NFL installed the rule to keep teams from forcing seniors to choose mini camps over final exams.
JAX - QB Leftwich Downplays His Weight
Source: Vito Stellino, The Florida Times-Union
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Byron Leftwich appeared to be leaner than he was last year, and he said the broken ankle that sidelined him for the final five regular-season games last year has completely healed. Except for conceding that he has lost weight in the offseason, Leftwich, listed at 6-feet-5 and 240 pounds, wouldn't say what his current weight is. "I'm a big guy," he said. "I've always been a big guy, but I've never not been in shape. I guarantee you that."
MIN - RB Moore To Be 'Somewhat Limited' For Minicamp
Source: Kevin Seifert, Star Tribune
Running back Mewelde Moore (wrist) will be somewhat limited, Childress said.
DEF - STL - New Look On Defense For Rams
Source: Bill Coats, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
DE Leonard Little and DE Anthony Hargrove are expected to regain their jobs, LB Pisa Tinoisamoa isn't likely to be uprooted at strongside linebacker, and third-year pro LB Brandon Chillar appears to have the edge at weakside. The seven other spots could be filled with new starters by opening day - Sept. 2 vs. Denver.
New Rams DC Jim Haslett seems intent on improving this defense: "I think the whole defense has to play better than they played the last couple of years, especially on the run game," Haslett said. "I want our defensive team to be tough-minded and physical. But I also want them to be good (at) technique, smart, and I want them to be good tacklers. And I don't think it was a good tackling football team last year."
DEF - KC - Chiefs Putting The Pieces Together On Defense
Source: Elizabeth Merrill, The Kansas City Star
Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham has been lobbying hard for the team to take top notch defensive talent in the draft over the last couple of years. The team is finally making some progress toward that goal. "This draft killed me," Cunningham said. "This year, defense came off the board at 100 mph, and I panicked. I went, ‘My God, we can’t get our guys.’ And fortunately for us, Tamba Hali was there at 20."
“I think the pieces are being put in place for real football, not for stopgap,” Cunningham said. “People can say, ‘Well, you could’ve done this or could’ve done that.’ But when you try to outscheme people, you’re going to bat .500. No, what you’ve got to do is line up 11 guys who can play defense. Because if you bat .500 in the NFL, you’re going to get fired.”