February Archives
02/28...The NFL Network is reporting the New York Giants have signed Seahawks free agent DT Rocky Bernard.
Quick Hits...Former Bills TE Robert Royal is visiting with the New York Jets...Detroit Lions QB Dan Orlovsky is in Houston visiting with the Texans....The Buccaneers have re-signed safety Will Allen to a 1-year, $1.83 million dollar contract.
Vikings free agent safety Darren Sharper has a visit scheduled with the Saints on Monday, and is expected to sign with the team soon after his arrival.
The Dallas Cowboys sent cornerback Anthony Henry to the Detroit Lions as compensation for QB Jon Kitna.
Former Atlanta Falcons linebacker Keith Brooking has signed a 3-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys...Brooking will be reunited with Cowboys coach Wade Phillips, who was the Falcons’ defensive coordinator in 2002-03. AJC
The New Orleans Saints are reportedly “looking closely” at acquiring San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson...especially if the Chargers aren't able to come to terms on a new deal with Tomlinson. NationalFootballPost
Al's Free Agency Scoop...The Buffalo Bills signed Panthers free agent center/guard Geoff Hangartner to a multi-year contract, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Adam Schefter reports Cardinals DE Antonio Smith has agreed to a 5-year, $35 million contract with the Texans.
The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly acquired quarterback Jon Kitna from the Lions for a draft pick. MLive
Carolina Panthers free agent center Geoff Hangartner is currently negotiating with the Buffalo Bills on a multi-year contract...Hangartner started 27 games over the last three seasons for the Panthers. NationalFootballPost
It's Official...The Denver Broncos signed Eagles free agent safety Brian Dawkins to a 5-year, $17 million dollar contract that reportedly includes $7.2 million guaranteed. NFL.com
The New Orleans Saints have re-signed one of their own...agreeing to a 5-year deal with OT Jon Stinchcomb. Nola
The Saints have also re-signed OLB Troy Evans.
The Detroit Lions have signed Titans CB Eric King to a two-year contract and have reportedly agreed to terms with 49'ers WR Bryant Johnson on a 3-year, $9 million dollar contract.
Cassel Traded...The New England Patriots have traded quarterback Matt Cassel and linebacker Mike Vrabel to the Chiefs for the Chiefs' second-round pick in the 2009 draft...The trade is expected to be announced this weekend. SI
Tennessee Titans WR Brandon Jones has reportedly signed with the San Francisco 49'ers. FoxSports/Marvez
The National Football Post reports that a trade between the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs involving quarterback Matt Cassel could take place very soon. NationalFootballPost
Baltimore Ravens free agent LB Ray Lewis could re-sign with the Ravens as soon as Monday. NBCSports
The Denver Broncos have reportedly come to terms with Browns free agent LB Andra Davis...terms of the contract have not been disclosed at this time.
The New York Giants and Falcons LB Michael Boley have agreed to terms one what is expected to be a five-year, $25 million contract...the deal is now “done,” according to one source familiar with the talks. NYDaily
The Denver Broncos reportedly have reached a contract agreement with Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Darrell Reid, raising the number of free agents the team added Friday to an NFL-high six. FoxSports
The New York Giants made a surprising run at Albert Haynesworth, calling his agent just after midnight and staying "in the mix" for several hours, two NFL sources told the Daily News...They didn't immediately back out when they were told Haynesworth wanted more than $30 million guaranteed, one source said, though eventually the price got way out of their range. NYDailyNews
Tennessee Titans free agent CB/RS Chris Carr has reportedly peaked the interst of at least four teams...the Lions, Vikings, Rams, and Steelers have all contacted Carr. Tennessean.com
Green Bay Packers free agent DT Colin Cole is in talks with the Tampa Bay Bucs and is nearing a decision on his future...
Cole is exactly the sort of lineman DC Jim Bates appears to be seeking in the Bucs' revised defensive scheme...The Bucs' current defensive line coach Robert Nunn, was the Packers' defensive tackles coach the past three seasons. Tbay.com
Dallas Cowboys free agent defensive lineman Chris Canty called off a visit to the Titans tentatively planned for this weekend...Canty was in New York on Friday meeting with the Giants.
The Buffalo Bills and Detroit Lions had agreed to a trade Thursday that would have sent OG Derrick Dockery to the Lions with Detroit willing to pick up the rest of Dockery's 7-year, $49 million contract and to guarantee the 2009 and 2010 portions of that deal...However, the Bills failed to file the necessary paperwork with the NFL Management Council by the 4 p.m. dealine, according to a league source, and, rather than pay Dockery $4.5 million for this year, the Bills allowed him to become a free agent. WashingtonPost
Cowboys DE/DT Chris Canty was in NY on Friday for a visit with the Giants...Canty reportedly had dinner with the Giants defensive coaches and will meet for interviews today at Giants Stadium...Canty is a native of the Bronx. NYPost
Seahawks DT Rocky Bernard was also in New York on Friday to visit with the Giants.
New York Giants free-agent safety James Butler paid a visit to the St. Louis Rams on Friday...Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo is familiar with Butler after coaching him in New York the past two seasons. NFL.com
The San Francisco 49ers agreed to terms with linebacker Takeo Spikes, return man Allen Rossum and fullback Moran Norris on Friday, and had Titans wide receiver Brandon Jones take a physical in the Bay Area...Jones is expected to meet this morning with coach Mike Singletary and general manager Scot McCloughan. SacBee.com
The compensation that the Tampa Bay Bucs gave to the Cleveland Browns for TE Kellen Winslow is a second-round pick in this year’s draft and a fifth-round pick in next year’s draft. TBO
A source has told Fox 29 News in Philadelphia that Eagles safety Brian Dawkins has reportedly signed a deal with the Denver Broncos...Fox 29 spoke with a second source in Denver to confirm that report. MyFoxPhilly.com
The San Francisco 49ers have a "legitimate shot" to land Cardinals free-agent quarterback Kurt Warner, a league source said...One source said the 49ers might get together with Warner in the next day or two, and could send a group of three, including Mike Singletary and GM Scot McCloughan, to Arizona to visit with Warner, the source said. Pressdemocrat
02/27...The Washington Redskins reached an agreement with former Bills guard Derrick Dockery on a 5-year, $26 million deal that includes $8.2 in guaranteed money. NFL.com
The Buffalo Bills have signed Cincinnati Bengals free agent quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to an undisclosed contract.
Baltimore Ravens free agent safety Jim Leonhard will be flying to visit with the New York Jets tomorrow, and has peaked the interest of the Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles as well.
Baltimore Ravens free agent center Jason Brown has agreed to terms with the St. Louis Rams. ESPN
The New York Jets have reportedly traded a 5th round pick in the 2009 Draft and a conditional pick in the 2010 Draft to the Philadelphia Eagles for cornerback Lito Sheppard.
Arizona Cardinals DE Antonio Smith was visiting the Texans on Friday night...Smith is a candidate to replace Anthony Weaver, who started the last three years before being released this week. HoustonChronicle
The Denver Broncos signed Texans wide receiver David Anderson to a 3-year, $4.5 million offer sheet that includes a $1 million signing bonus...the Texans have a week to match Anderson’s deal or let him go for a 7th round draft pick...the Arizona Cardinals re-signed QB Brian St. Pierre to a 1-year, $1 million dollar contract.
The Baltimore Ravens and Oakland Raiders are reportedly interested in Steelers OT Marvel Smith. SportingNews
The Denver Broncos are reportedly closing in on a deal with Texans free-agent linebacker Andra Davis, according to a source close to negotiations. DenverPost
The New York Giants are closing in on a deal with Falcons free agent linebacker Michael Boley. NYDailyNews
Hall of Fame member Bruce Matthews, who played 14 of his 19 seasons for the Houston Oilers has been hired by the Houston Texans as an offensive assistant coach. HoustonChronicle
Quick Hits...The San Francisco 49ers have re-signed linebacker Takeo Spikes...Buffalo Bills free agent CB Jabari Greer reportedly has visits scheduled with the Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay Bucs, Atlanta Falcons, and Denver Broncos....Baltimore Ravens free agent safety Jim Leonhard is reportedly scheduled to visit the Jets on Saturday...The Jaguars have signed safety Sean Considine to a 2-year, $3 million dollar contract...The Falcons have re-signed safety Jamaal Fudge to a one-year contract.
Tight end Jim Kleinsasser has agreed to a 3-year, $9 million dollar contract with the Vikings on Friday only hours after becoming a free agent. StarTribune
The New York Jets are reportedly in trade discussions with the Eagles for Eagles CB Lito Sheppard. NYDaily/Cimini
Jacksonville Jaguars OT Khalif Barnes has a visit scheduled with the Saints on Sunday, and is also drawing interest fom the Raiders and Bucs. FOX/Marvez
Adam Schefter reports the Denver Broncos have signed Jabar Gaffeny to a 4-year, $10 million dollar contract with $3 million guaranteed.
It's Official...After several hours of high-stakes negotiations, linebacker Bart Scott has agreed to sign with the Jets...the deal is beilieved to be for $48 million over six years, but the last year is an option. DailyNews/Cimini
The Houston Texans re-signed TE Joel Dreessen to a 3-year, $3.6 million contract extension. Fox/Marvez
Jacksonville Jaguars free agent WR Reggie Williams was arrested in Houston early Friday morning...Police records show Williams was arrested at 1:59am and was charged with DWI and possession of .97 grams of marijuana, both class B misdemeanors...Williams failed three field sobriety tests and refused to voluntarily provide a blood and urine sample. FxHou
A Rochester, N.Y. Judge has issued a warrant for the arrest of former Buffalo Bills player Anthony Hargrove...
Hargrove was re-instated by the league after serving a one year suspension but the Monroe County District Attorney says he plans to send a letter to the NFL regarding Hargrove’s failure to do community service here after getting into a scuffle with a Rochester police officer. Whec.com
Quick Hits...The Denver Broncos have reportedly signed Eagles safety Brian Dawkins...the Dolphins have signed Cowboys OL Joe Berger.
Adam Schefter reports the Detroit Lions have agreed to terms with RB Maurice Maurice on a 3-year deal worth $7 million...and the Saints have re-signed Jonathan Vilma to a 5-year, $34 million contract with $17 million guaranteed.
The Pittburgh Steelers re-signed free agent FB Sean McHugh to a 3-year contract worth $2.57 million. Postgazette
HOT...Adam Schefter reports NFL Network co-host Rod Woodson contacted Ray Lewis by phone earlier today, and Lewis told Woodson that he "never said that he would never play for the Ravens again"...he also told Woodson that the rumors that he wants to play for the Cowboys are false.
Quick Hits...The Cincinnati Bengals have re-signed safety Chris Crocker...The Jacksonville Jaguars have re-signed cornerback Scott Starks...The Minnesota Vikings waived QB Gus Frerotte.
The Tennessee Titans have agreed to terms on a contract with veteran Vincent Fuller, the team's primary nickel back for the last two seasons. Foxsports
Adam Schefter and Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean report that Kerry Collins has reached a contract agreement with the Tennessee Titans. Tennessean
Denver Broncos have signed Patriots long snapper Lonie Paxton, and have a visit scheduled with Eagles safety Brian Dawkins.
Former Dallas Cowboys QB Quincy Carter was arrested early Friday on drunken driving and marijuana possession charges in South Texas...Carter's blood-alcohol level tested at 0.14, above the state's legal limit of 0.08...Carter was charged with misdemeanor possession of less than 2 ounces of marijuana after the drug was found in his car. Startelegram
Adam Schefter reports New England’s linebacker Mike Vrabel is in Kansas City undergoing a physical so that he can then be traded to the Chiefs for an undisclosed draft chioce. NFL.com
The Pittsburgh Steelers have come to a contract agreement with guard Chris Kemoeatu that will pay him $20 million over the next five years...Kemoeatu was about to sign with the New York Jets for the same amount, but he decided to stay with the Steelers instead. Postgazette
Sirius NFL Radio reports the deal between the New York Jets and linebacker Bart Scott has not been completed and the Baltimore Ravens are still making a list ditch effort to re-sign their linebacker.
The New York Jets have reportedly shown interest in Ravens CB Corey Ivy and Bills CB Jabari Greer. NYDaily
The New York Jets may have found their replacement for Brandon Moore in Steelers OG Chris Kemoeatu...the Steelers have reportedly dropped out of the running for Kemoeatu...unless another team jumps in at the 11th hour, the Jets will have their man. NYDaily
The Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to terms with center Brad Meester on a four-year contract. ESPN
The Baltimore Ravens have signed Atlanta Falcons' free-agent cornerback Dominique Foxworth to a 4-year $28 Million dollar contract with $13 million guaranteed.. FoxSports
The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to terms to bring Allen Rossum back for another season. SacBee
Quick Hits...The Baltimore Ravens have released DE Marques Douglas...Visits...Giants HB Derrick Ward has visits scheduled with the Bengals and Browns...Steelers WR Nate Washington has visits scheduled with the Lions and Vikings...The San Francisco 49ers have scheduled free agent visits with FB Moran Noris and DT Demetric Evans...Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is in Buffalo visiting with the Bills today.
Cincinnati Bengals free agent right tackle Stacy Andrews has re-joined brother Shawn Andrews in Philadelphia...
Andrews reportedly signed a contract with the Eagles worth $7 million per year. Bengals.com
The New Orleans Saints could make a push for ex-Skins Shawn Springs and Marcus Washington. Both were immediate signings by Washington when Gregg Williams was in his first year as the defensive coordinator..Williams is entering his first season as the Saints defensive boss, and the team has needs at both corner and linebacker.
The Washington Redskins have informed veteran CB Shawn Springs that he will be released from the final year of his contract, according to Springs...the Redskins will save $6 million in cap space by letting him go...Springs could draw interest from New England, Dallas and Baltimore, among other teams. WashingtonPost
The Houston Texans have re-signed safety Eugene Wilson to a 3-year $11.3 million dollar contract.
Cincinnati Bengals free agent WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh is reportedly headed to Seattle today for a meeting with Seahawks officials. Marvez/Fox
Adam Schefter reports the New England Patriots have signed former Jets TE Chris Baker.
Ray Lewis...Adam Schefter reports a source close to Ray Lewis has told him that Lewis will not return to Baltimore, and his days as a Baltimore Raven are over.
The Cleveland Browns have traded tight end Kellen Winslow to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for undislosed draft choices.
Make it official...The New York Jets have agreed to terms with Ravens LB Bart Scott on a 5 year $40 million dollar contract.
The Chicago Bears have signed offensive tackle/guard Frank Omiyale to a four-year contract worth between $11.5 million and $14 million. SunTimes
Former Steelers OG Kendall Simmons and Jets WR Lavernous Coles have visits scheduled with the Bills.
Make it official...Adam Schefter of the NFL Network reports the New England Patriots have signed RB Fred Taylor.
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Nate Washington is reportedly on his way to Detroit today to visit with the Lions. MLive
Al's Scoop...Baltimore Ravens linebacker Bart Scott will become a New York Jet later today...Scott has visits scheduled with the Jets, and then the Rams after his trip to New York, where the Jets aren't expected to let Scott out of the building, without making him an offer that he won't refuse.
Visits...Tennessee Titans WR Brandon Jones has a visit scheduled with the San Francisco 49'ers today...Former Cleveland Browns CB Leigh Bodden has a visit scheduled with the Patriots today...Miami Dolphins safety Renaldo Hill has a visit scheduled with the Denver Broncos...Tampa Bay cornerback Phillip Buchanon has a visit scheduled with the Detroit Lions...Dallas Cowboys' defensive end Chris Canty has visits scheduled with the Redskins, Titans, Seahawks and 49'ers.
Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth will become a $100 million man with the Washington Redskins barring any last-minute complications, according to his agent...Haynesworth received a 7-year, $100 million deal contract offer from the Redskins early this morning and is scheduled to travel to Washington, D.C. later today..If everything is approved with the contract, a press conference should be scheduled for later in the day. Tennessean
Fred Taylor...After visiting both the Patriots and Bills over the past few days, it is believed that free agent running back Fred Taylor will sign with the Patriots...both teams made contract offers to the 11-year veteran. Projo.com
The Washington Redskins are in contract negotiations with free agent OG Derrick Dockery. WashingtonPost
Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowl guard Brian Waters has asked the organization to release or trade him. Kansascity.com
The Washington Redskins have scheduled a visit for Cowboys free-agent DE Chris Canty. Schefter/NFL.com
The Houston Texans could consider signing Bills' QB J.P. Losman, because Losman in terms of pure athleticism is a pretty good fit for the Texans...he'd be a good fit with the play-action, bootleg system the Texans use. HoustonChronicle
The Tampa Bay Bucs are entering into the mix for Titans' defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth and Bengals' wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh. TBO
The Denver Broncos will reportedly sign Eagles HB Correll Buckhalter and Cardinals HB/RS J.J. Arrington...Both players are expected to sign with the Broncos today after passing physical exams. FoxSports
The New York Jets have made an offer to Steelers OG Chris Kemoeatu, according to a league source...The offer is believed to be in the $4 million-per-year range. NYDailynews
If Ray Lewis decides to sign elsewhere and leave the Ravens, the Denver Broncos could be a darkhorse candidate, since Broncos defensive coordinator Mike Nolan had a great relationship with Lewis when he was the Ravens' defensive coordinator...plus Denver is not expected to re-sign middle linebacker Nate Webster. BaltimoreSun
Peter King reports Redskins Executive VP Vinny Cerrato told one agent this morning that the 'Skins aren't going to pursue Titans DT Albert Haynesworth because he was going to be too expensive...The Buccaneers are targeting New Orleans middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma and Pittsburgh wide receiver Nate Washington...The New York Giants were hot on the trail of Atlanta linebacker Michael Boley...Steelers CB Bryant McFadden was leaning toward signing with the Lions and Domonique Foxworth is leaning toward signing with the Ravens. SI
Visits...Baltimore Ravens free agent center Jason Brown has a visit scheduled with the St. Louis Rams today... Panthers free agent center/guard Geoff Hangartner has a visit scheduled with the Buffalo Bills...Ravens LB Bart Scott has visits scheduled with the New York Jets and St. Louis Rams...Cowboys OG/OC Joe Berger has a visit scheduled with the Miami Dolphins...Rams CB Ronald Bartell has a visit sscheduled with the Saints.
Quick Hits...The Jets re-signed FB Tony Richardson to a one-year contract...The Patriots extended a second-round free agent tender to OLB Pierre Woods.
The Washington Redskins signed one of their own, by agreeing to terms with CB DeAngelo Hall on a six-year contract reportedly worth $55 million, with $23 million guaranteed.
02/26..The Houston Texans tendered contract offers to wide receiver David Anderson, offensive tackle Rashad Butler, defensive end Earl Cochran and tight end Joel Dreessen....and signed center Chris White and defensive end Stanley McClover to one-year contracts.
Adam Schefter of the NFL Network reports the Arizona Cardinals are letting quarterback Kurt Warner hit the open market since the two sides were unable to hammer out a new contract. SportingNews
Quick Hits...The Indianapolis Colts have agreed to a three-year contract with center Jeff Saturday...the Falcons have re-signed center Ben Wilkerson...restructured Brian Finneran's contract, and have agreed to terms with tight end Justin Peelle, linebacker Coy Wire and defensive tackle Jason Jefferson...Tyson Clabo and right guard Harvey Dahl received second-round tenders as restricted free agents.
Al's Free Agency Tip...Don't be surprised if the Buffalo Bills are major players in the Jason Brown sweepstakes. Destite reports that the Dolphins, Chiefs and Rams are the frontrunners for the Ravens free agent center/guard, the Bills have the cap space, and released guard Derrick Dockery today to pave the way to sign Brown. Brown can play both guard and center, and excels in playing teams that employ the 3-4 scheme, because he's physical enough to handle the nose tackle head-on, which was the Bills major weakness last season. All of the Bills opponents in the AFC East play a 3-4 scheme, in which the Bills were 0-6 within the division last season.
The Bills hosted a pair of free agents today, former Jaguars CB Drayton Florence, and former Broncos LB Jamie Winborn, paid a visit to One Bills Drive.
The Buffalo Bills tendered offers to restricted free agents Keith Ellison and George Wilson...the Bills also extended tenders to QB Matt Baker, DE Copeland Bryan, LB Blake Costanzo, RB Bruce Hall, LS Ryan Neill, TE Derek Schouman and TE Jonathan Stupar. BuffaloBills.com
The St. Louis Rams have made one-year tender offers to restricted free agent DE Victor Adeyanju and OG Richie Incognito...and declined to make an offer to OG Mark Setterstrom. Stltoday
Roster Moves...The Arizona Cardinals signed RB Chris Vincent, TE Alex Short, and DE Jason Banks, and released LS Nathan Hodel...the Chargers waived RB Eldra Buckley...the Jets released OG Brandon Moore, HB Noah Herron, and DL Sean Conover...the Steelers released OG Kendall Simmons and LB Mike Humpal.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Antonio Bryant has accepted the teams' franchise tag and will remain a Buc for 2009. Tbo
Iowa defensive tackle Mitch King could be wearing a Bears uniform in 2009...King told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan that Bears' defensive line coach Rod Maranelli sat down for a 15 minute interview with him at the Combine, and was very impressed with his play...King has been compared to Chris Hovan who Maranelli took under his wing at Tampa, and developed into a solid defensive tackle in the league.
The Philadelphia Eagles offered one-year contracts to free agent WR Hank Baskett, OL Nick Cole and LB Tank Daniels...if another team signs Baskett or Cole to an offer sheet, the Eagles have seven days to match the offer....if they chose not to match, the Eagles would receive a second-round draft pick in return. SportingNews
The Steelers extended a first-round tender to restricted free agent RT Willie Colon, extended low restricted free agent offers to FB Sean McHugh and CB Anthony Madison, tendered exclusive rights free agent FB Carey Davis and OT Jeremy Parquet...and passed on an offer to restricted free agent safety Anthony Smith, making him available to hit the open market at midnight.
Miami Dolphins strong safety Yeremiah Bell has agreed to terms with the Dolphins on a 4-year deal worth $20 million.
The Arizona Cardinals extended a low free agent tender ($1.01 million) to Leonard Pope, and extended a second-round tender to free agent DT Gabe Watson.
Al's Free Agency Tip...The biggest buzz surrounding free-agency over the last 24 hours was Lavanues Coles being released by the Jets, after turning down $6 Million in guaranteed money from the team. Risky business?, think again. Coles was born in Jacksonville, Florida, attended Florida State University, and is now headed back to his home state, via free-agency. Just a hunch that Coles knew one of the teams in the state of Florida had him on their radar screen, and had intended to offer him as much, if not more money than what Coles turned down from the Jets. Keep in mind that the Bucs need help at the wide receiver position, and have a ton of cap space, and the other team down the road in Miami has one of Coles best friends (Chad Pennington) quarterbacking the team.
The Cowboys could cut safety Roy Williams, which would free up $2.18 million worth of salary-cap space... The Cowboys are also expected to release quarterback Brad Johnson, to clear out another $2 million against the cap. NFL.com
It appears that the Washington Redskins and Tampa Bay Bucs are gearing up for a huge bidding war for Titans' defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. MLive
The Washington Redskins have reportedly expressed interest in former Skins guard Derrick Dockery, who was released today by the Bills. WashingtonPost
Adam Schefter reports the Carolina Panthers tried trading CB Ken Lucas to the Detroit Lions...however...Lucas let it be known that he didn't want to play in Detroit. NFL.com
Quick Hits...The Carolina Panthers extended a second-round tender to free agent TE Jeff King and a low free agent tender ($1.01 million) to OLB James Anderson...The Chiefs extended a second-round tender to free agent C Rudy Niswanger.
The Baltimore Ravens have reportedly informed center Jason Brown that he is not in their plans for the 2009 season. SportingNews
The Buffalo Bills have released veteran tight end Robert Royal.
The Houston Texans have placed the highest restricted tender (first and third round) on TE Owen Daniels...Daniels will receive the one-year tender level at $2.792 million. Scout.com
Quick Hits...The Patriots and restricted free agent linebacker Eric Alexander have reportedly agreed in principle to a one-year contract...The Buffalo Bills have released left guard Derrick Dockery.
Quick Hits...The Houston Texans reached an agreement on a three-year contract with starting free safety Eugene Wilson...The Panthers have gained salary cap room by extending the contract of defensive tackle Damione Lewis.
Reworking the contracts of OLT Chris Samuels, DE Andre Carter, WR Antwaan Randle El, and DT Cornelius Griffin, points to the Redskins being active in free agency...perhaps with one monster deal. ProFootballWeekly
Florida Atlantic and Florida International will hold their Pro Day workouts today.
Allen Wilson of the Bufffalo News reports the Bills could enter the bidding for Baltimore Ravens center/guard Jason Brown...to enter the bidding, the Bills could cut left guard Derrick Dockery. BuffaloNews
Former Raiders and Giants strong safety Gibril Wilson has agreed to contract terms with the Dolphins. Foxsports
The Oakland Raiders will reportedly have interest in signing former Jets WR Laverneus Coles and former Rams WR Drew Bennett. InsideBay
The San Diego Chargers have called a 3 p.m.(est) news conference for this afternoon, in which the team may be able to announce its plans for LaDainian Tomlinson at the time. USAToday
Baltimore Ravens center/guard Jason Brown will reportedly draw interest from the Dolphins, Jaguars and Redskins, if he hits the open market at midnight tonight. MiamiHerald
Quick Hits...The Minnesota Vikings have tendered an offer to free agent DT Fred Evans, but did not extend an offer to defensive linemen Jayme Mitchell and Otis Grigsby and Jayme Mitchell...The Chargers extended second-round tender offers to WR Malcom Floyd and CB Cletis Gordon...The Cowboys extended second-round tender offers to WR Miles Austin, WR Sam Hurd, OG Cory Proctor and DE Stephen Bowen.
02/25...The Cincinnati Bengals have reached a verbal agreement with linebacker Darryl Blackstock...Agent Brad Blank said Blackstock opted for a one-year minimum deal. Bengals.com
SI.com reports former union president Troy Vincent improperly released confidential information about agents to a longtime friend and business partner, Mark Mangum...one revelation expected to come to light is that former NFLPA executive director Gene Upshaw had collected numerous internal e-mails from Vincent allegedly proving that he disclosed the privileged information. SI.com
NFL teams were notified Wednesday that the salary cap will increase over $4 million to $127 million for this coming year...the collective bargaining agreement calls for cap adjustment down if teams spend over the cap in cash and adjustment up if they don’t spend up to the cap...It's good news for the Colts and Panthers, who are up against the cap, and not such good news for the Buccaneers and Chiefs, who are way under the cap. Schefter/NFL.com
Quick Hits...The Miami Dolphins have agreed to terms with LB Channing Crowder on a 3 year contract....The Tampa Bay Bucs tendered LT Donald Penn a $2.79 Miillion dollar tender, meaning any team that signs Penn to an offer sheet, would have to surrender it's first and third round picks in the draft...Titans free agent QB Kerry Collins will reportedly test the open market in free-agency, after receiving a dissapointing offer from the team.
Georgia HB Knowshon Moreno told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan, that he will run again on his Pro Day on March 19...Moreno said that the Chargers and Eagles showed the most interest in him at the Combine.
The New York Giants signed HB Brandon Jacobs to a four-year, $25 million contract, with $15 million guaranteed.
Roster Cuts...The St. Louis Rams released QB Trent Green and WR Drew Bennett...The Houston Texans released OT Ephraim Salaam, S Will Demps, and DE Anthony Weaver...The Jets have released WR Laverneus Coles.
The Chiefs made a statement when they cut a young up and coming player in TE Michael Merritt yesterday..the next player to go in Kansas City could be another player with off-field baggage...Running back Larry Johnson.. Johnson is expected to be traded or cut soon. ESPN
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the CFL signed wide receiver Kyle Smith to a contract..Smith is the son of A.J. Smith, the NFL’s San Diego Chargers general manager. Canada.com
Philadelphia Eagles OT Tra Thomas wants to stay with the Eagles, but talks moving slowly...Thomas acknowledged he never wanted to get to this point, that he'd rather have already signed a new contract with the Birds, but now that he's here, he's curious about what might be available elsewhere. Philly.com
St. Louis Rams CB Ron Bartell is only hours away from becoming a free agent...Bartell is a raw talent who refined his game and came of age in 2008, just as he was due to become an unrestricted free agent. STLToday
San Diego Chargers OG Kynan Forney has agreed to a two-year, $4.8 million contract that will pay him $2 million in the 2009 season, according to a source. ESPN
Twincities.com reports NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has taken a 20 percent pay cut, and the league staff has been trimmed by 15 percent because of a reeling economy.
The Minnesota Vikings could make a run at Ravens guard-center Jason Brown...two NFL sources reportedly said that was the scuttlebutt about the Vikings making the rounds in Indianapolis. Twincities.com
Roster Cuts...The Carolina Panthers have released HB Nick Goings, WR D.J. Hackett, and OG Jeremy Bridges...the Tampa Bay Bucs have released WR Joey Galloway, RB Warrick Dunn, LB Derrick Brooks, WR Ike Hilliard, and LB Cato June.
Marshawn Lynch's Mother, Delisa Lynch said her son has had trouble adjusting to his new life, the one with the $10 million in guaranteed money from a six-year, $18.9 million contract he signed after being the 12th pick of the 2007 NFL draft..."It's been a big culture change for him,"..."Somebody said his mom must have loosened the leash," she said in an interview. "If I have to grab the leash back, I'll do it. Whether you're 22 or 52, I'll do it. SFGate
The Detroit Lions are expected to move fast when free-agency begins on Friday, swooping up some targeted mid-level free agents, but could skip on any of the high-ticket players. MLive
Quick Hits...New York Jets kicker Mike Nugent has declined an offer from the Jets to return and will test the free-agent market, The Star-Ledger has learned...Bengals WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh is the top free agent on the New York Giants' wish list, according to The Sporting News...The Buffalo Bills made a tender offer to exclusive rights free agent HB Fred Jackson on Tuesday...Jackson, will earn a minimum of $460,000 in 2009. BuffaloNews
The agent for Kurt Warner says he expected the quarterback and the Cardinals would have a contract agreement by now and hopes the team isn't using his client's desire to stay in Arizona against him...Agent Mark Bartelstein said Warner deserves a salary among the top "four or five" quarterbacks in the league, no matter where he plays. Foxsports
The Carolina Panthers have some roster and salary cap work to do prior to the free agency signing period opening Friday...Players who could get the axe include CB Ken Lucas, OL Jeremy Bridges and WR D.J. Hackett. Charlotte.com
The Washington Redskins have almost completed the restructuring of DT Cornelius Griffin's contract...the team is still strapped for space under the cap, though they could create more space before Friday. WashingtonPost
The Houston Texans will be looking for a replacement once they trade quarterback Sage Rosenfels to Minnesota for a fourth-round draft choice Friday...Rosenfels’ replacement will come in free-agency, where Titans QB Chris Simms could be reunited with his best friend from the University of Texas, offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan. HoustonChronicle
Baltimore Ravens center Jason Brown is seeking to be paid as a guard and not a center because of his versitility. The difference in positions could be $2 million per season, which might push Brown to test the free-agent market. Baltsun
Adam Schefter of the NFL Network reports Browns DT Shaun Rogers has grown so "disenchanted" with the new Browns regime that he's asked the team to not exercise his $6 million March option bonus.
02/24...The Baltimore Ravens and linebacker Bart Scott are reportedly moving closer to getting a deal done before the midnight deadline Friday for free agency...If the Ravens re-sign Scott, Ray Lewis could be left out in the cold...Lewis apparently irritated owner Steve Bisciotti recently with his comments at the Pro Bowl about possibly playing for the Jets or the Cowboys, and was disappointed that Lewis didn't show loyalty to the franchise at the Pro Bowl. BaltimoreSun
The Kansas City Chiefs have created space under their salary cap by releasing quarterback Damon Huard, cornerback Patrick Surtain, linebacker Donnie Edwards and tight end Mike Merritt.
The Indianapolis Colts have announced that they have released wide receiver Marvin Harrison.
Quick Hits...The Indianapolis Colts will hold a 5:30 pm (est) press conference to address the Marvin Harrison situation...The Minnesota Vikings have re-signed cornerback Charles Gordon to a one-year contract.
Washington Redskins OT Chris Samuels has agreed to restructure his contract...his $5 million salary will be lowered and the Skins likely will save a few million in cap space, but aren't in any kind of position to set a spending record on a player like Albert Haynesworth. WashingtonPost
A Chicago Bears Fan was charged $28,067.31 by AT&T to watch a game on his computer...the Bears fan, Wayne Burdick, was watching the game on his computer from a port in Miami, where he was waiting to take a cruise...he was using a Slingbox to watch the game while getting a (non-roaming) signal from his unlimited wireless card and expected a bill around $200...he received a bill 140 times that size...But at least the Bears won the game, 27-23 over the Lions. SbG
The Tennessee Titans reportedly have interest in Pittsburgh Steelers free agent WR Nate Washington. CityPaper
The official times for the defensive backs group have been released and are as follows: Chris Clemons 4.41,
Lardarius Webb 4.46, David Bruton 4.46, Vontae Davis 4.46, Brandon Hughes 4.50, CJ Spillman 4.50, Chip Vaughn 4.51,
Chris Owens 4.51, Kevin Barnes 4.52, Sherrod Martin 4.52;
The Washington Redskins are reportedly ready to break the bank to sign Titans DT Albert Haynesworth...the contract could break $100 million, with an average of $15 to $16 million per season. HoustonChronicle
Michael Crabtree might not run after all...speaking by phone on the NFL Network with Rich Eisen, Deion Sanders, Mike Mayock, and Charles Davis, Crabtree stated that he is considering going ahead and having the surgery on his foot, instead of putting it off until after his Proday....the move will please NFL teams and ensure that he will be ready for the start of the NFL training camps... However, he stated that he still needs time to re-evaluate the situation and talk it over with his agent and his family before reaching a final decision.
The agent for free-agent center Matt Birk and the Vikings are expected to continue contract talks later this week after a productive meeting on Friday at the Combine. Startribune
San Diego Chargers GM A.J. Smith left the Indianapolis Combine with the Ladainian Tomlinson situation unresolved.
The two sides met Sunday at the combine, but the content of those talks has not been disclosed by either party...The issue will probably come to a conclusion by Thursday, when Smith will meet with the media to discuss offseason plans and announce which players have been cut. NCTimes
Combine Notes...Unofficial 40 yard dash times from the defensive backs group - CB Brandon Hughes 4.36,
Chris Clemons 4.41, David Bruton 4.43, Malcolm Jenkins 4.55, Victor Harris 4.57, Vontae Davis 4.43, Darius Butler 4.45,
Kevin Barnes 4.46, Jarius Byrd 4.48, Louis Delmas 4.50, Kevin Ellison 4.82, Stephon Hodge 4.49, Emanuel Cook 4.67, Patrick Chung 4.51, Cary Harris 4.58, Lendy Holmes 4.71;
The Redskins could pursue Buffalo Bills' linebacker Angelo Crowell in the upcoming free-agency period. Washtimes
San Francisco 49'ers GM Scott McCloughan and head coach Mike Singletary mentioned the need to find a tackle, whether in the draft or in free agency...Coach and GM also mentioned as areas of need safety, running back, wide receiver and pass rusher. SFGate
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay insisted late Monday that Tom Condon, Harrison's agent, was "premature" earlier in the day when he said the Colts had agreed to release their veteran receiver...Asked if it still were possible for Harrison to remain with the Colts, Irsay replied, "Definitely.'' IndyStar
USC Linebacker Brian Cushing's stock has taken a hit despite a pretty good Combine...scouts in the stands at Indy were reportedly buzzing about reports that Cushing spends thousands of dollars a month on nutritional supplements, which raises questions about how maxed out Cushing might be. CBSSports
Harold Lewis, who represents Bart Scott and Jason Brown, said yesterday that he is optimistic either Scott or Brown will re-sign with the Ravens before free agency begins Friday. BaltimoreSun
USC linebacker Clay Matthews III wouldn't mind being a Cleveland Brown...his father, Clay Matthews holds the Browns' franchise record with 232 games played..."It would mean a lot," the younger Matthews said. "I always have a smile on my face when I talk to the Cleveland Browns representatives." The Browns will be scouting linebackers heavily for the upcoming draft. Cleveland.com
It appears that T.O. will remain a Cowboy, since Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Monday the media was correct last week to assume his comments meant that he had no plans to cut Terrell Owens. DallasNews
The Denver Broncos are preparing to be very active in free-agency and are expected to add seven or eight free-agent players...Their needs include: a starting cornerback, one or two safeties, a nose tackle, one or two defensive ends, one or two linebackers, a No. 3-type receiver, a backup quarterback and possibly a running back. DenverPost
Charles Barkley will serve 5 days in jail after pleading guilty Monday to charges of driving drunk ...According to Scottsdale court records, the 45-year-old former NBA star pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor charges related to the same drunken driving arrest...I was gonna drive around the corner and get (oral sex)," Barkley told a police officer, according to the official police report. He explained that the girl had performed oral sex on him a week earlier, and it was the best such experience of his life...Barkley, who works as a TV analyst, is set to serve five days in jail on March 21. FoxSports
Quick Hits...The Washington Redskins are reportedly very interested in Cowboys free agent DE Chris Canty and could take a flier on Packers tackle Mark Tauscher. Washington Post
Former Raiders and Jaguars wide receiver Jerry Porter intends to test the free-agent market, but will likely be headed back to Oakland. Raiderbeat
02/23...The Houston Texans will release DE Anthony Weaver on Tuesday according to Adam Schefter. NFL.com
Quick Hits...The Oakland Raiders have released OT Kwame Harris and FB Justin Griffith...the Indianapolis Colts have released wide receiver Marvin Harrison, according to his agent Tom Condon.
Detroit Lions quarterback Dan Orlovsky will be testing the open market in free agency after rejecting the Lions latest offer...Orlovsky was reportedly told that he would be competing for a backup position. Freep.com
Quick Hits...Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Tommy Kelly has agreed to restructure his contract to reduce the Raiders' cap number....The New York Jets have restructured the contracts of safety Kerry Rhodes and linebacker Calvin Pace to create space under their salary cap...Former Bills defensive end Anthony Hargrove has been reinstated by the league from his one-year suspension for violating the leagues' substance abuse policy.
Quick Hits...The New York Jets have restructured the contracts of safety Kerry Rhodes and linebacker Calvin Pace to create space under the teams' salary cap...Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Tommy Kelly has agreed to restructure his contract to help the Raiders cap number....and Former Bills defensive end Anthony Hargrove has been reinstated by the NFL from his one-year suspension.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are reportedly shopping TE George Wrighster and DT Tony McDaniel...the Jaguars called their former VP of personnel James Harris over the weekend to see if the Lions would be interested. Jacksonville.com
Combine Notes...The top official 40 yard dash times from the Linebackers were just announced, and are as follows:
1. Aaron Curry 4.56, 2. Stanley Arnoux 4.61, 3. Gerald McGrath 4.61, 4. Clay Matthews 4.67, 5. Jason Phillips 4.69
USC Linebacker Rey Maualuga suffered a hamstring injury during his forty-yard dash attempt.
The Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings are close to completing a trade that would send Texans quarterback Sage Rosenfels to the Vikings for a fourth round draft pick. Chron.com
Minnesota Vikings Hall of Famer Carl Eller was found guilty of assaulting a Minneapolis police officer and failing to cooperate while police tried to give him a sobriety test last spring...Eller left the Hennepin County District Courthouse today in handcuffs to begin serving 60 days in the workhouse. Startribune
Combine Notes...Texas DE Brian Orakpo injured his hamstring during the field drills and is finished for the day. Orakpo said that he heard a "pop" in his hamstring, but the injury is being considered a "tweak" at this time...stay tuned.
Combine...The top official 40 yard dash times from the Defensive linemen were just announced and are as follows:
1. Lawrence Sidbury 4.64, 2. Connor Barwin 4.66, 3. Brian Orakpo 4.70, 4. Everette Brown 4.74, 5. Michael Johnson 4.75.
The receiver starved Philadelphia Eagles could be a landing spot for Indianapolis Colts WR Marvin Harrison if he's given his outright release by the Colts...Harrison lives in Philly where he operates a restaurant, and was a teammate of Eagles QB Donovan McNabb, when the two attended Syracuse university.
The Buffalo Bills have introduced a classic Bills 50th Anniversary Season logo...the logo is on a patch that the team will wear on their current uniforms, and is on display at the Bills Online Store.
Philadelphia Eagles president Joe Banner told the Daily News that his team is open to trading CB Lito Sheppard if the Eagles would get the right value in return...also, the agents for safety Brian Dawkins offensive tackle Tra Thomas will know what the Eagles have in mind contract-wise before the start of free agency, and will be free to leave if there's a better deal somewhere else. Philly.com
Quick Hits...The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly very interested in Colts' free agent center Jeff Saturday...the Packers are trying to re-sign DT Colin Cole before he hits the open market in free agency...and the Bills are hoping to reach an agreement with CB Jabari Greer before Friday.
Peter King of SI.com reports Redskins owner Dan Snyder was having dinner with Chad Speck, the agent for soon to be free agent DT Albert Haynesworth at Morton's in Indianapolis, site of the Combine on Saturday night. SI
Minnesota Vikings QB Gus Frerotte will return to the team if he's paid a roster bonus of $250,000 that is due in March...tight end Jim Kleinsasser and center Matt Birk are also expected to return if terms on a new contract can be reached...but safety Darren Sharper is expected to sign with the New Orleans Saints. Startribune
Combine...Florida wide receiver Percy Harvin took part in the bench press and the 40 yard dash at the Combine, but passed on the field drills because he tweaked his ankle in the BCS Championship game...Harvin stated that his ankle isn't completely healed to the point where he can cut, but he can run straight ahead.
Baltimore Ravens center Jason Brown will likely test the free-agency waters on Friday since it's believed there is a gap in negotiations between Brown and the Ravens...Brown excels against top nose tackles, but struggled in space against 4-3 defenses...Since the Ravens play two 3-4 defenses in the AFC North, they might want Brown back. Baltimoresun
Al's Draft Tip...Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree's stock took a hit in Indy before the announcement that he will need surgery on his left foot. Crabtree was viewed by many as the second coming of Larry Fitzgerald (a big play-making receiver) because of his tremendous production on the field, and his size - listed as 6-3 215 in the Red Raiders media guide. However, when Crabtree was measured on Friday, it was revealed that he's actually 6-1.2, which is almost two inches shorter than his listed size. Big receivers like Fitzgerald, create a mismatch against smaller cornerbacks, and are a defensive coordinators nightmare. Michael Crabtree was just that, before he was measured at the Combine on Friday.
Tennessee Titans CB/RS Chris Carr is prepared to test the open market in free-agency since Carr and the Titans are far from agreeing to terms on a new contract according to his agent, Buddy Baker. Tennessean
Indianapolis Colts WR Marvin Harrison reportedly refused to restructure his contract with a significant pay cut and has asked the Colts for his release from the team.
02/25...The agent for Kurt Warner says he expected the quarterback and the Cardinals would have a contract agreement by now and hopes the team isn't using his client's desire to stay in Arizona against him...Agent Mark Bartelstein said Warner deserves a salary among the top "four or five" quarterbacks in the league, no matter where he plays. Foxsports
The Carolina Panthers have some roster and salary cap work to do prior to the free agency signing period opening Friday...Players who could get the axe include CB Ken Lucas, OL Jeremy Bridges and WR D.J. Hackett. Charlotte.com
The Washington Redskins have almost completed the restructuring of DT Cornelius Griffin's contract...the team is still strapped for space under the cap, though they could create more space before Friday. WashingtonPost
The Houston Texans will be looking for a replacement once they trade quarterback Sage Rosenfels to Minnesota for a fourth-round draft choice Friday...Rosenfels’ replacement will come in free-agency, where Titans QB Chris Simms could be reunited with his best friend from the University of Texas, offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan. HoustonChronicle
Baltimore Ravens center Jason Brown is seeking to be paid as a guard and not a center because of his versitility. The difference in positions could be $2 million per season, which might push Brown to test the free-agent market. Baltsun
Adam Schefter of the NFL Network reports Browns DT Shaun Rogers has grown so "disenchanted" with the new Browns regime that he's asked the team to not exercise his $6 million March option bonus.
02/24...The Baltimore Ravens and linebacker Bart Scott are reportedly moving closer to getting a deal done before the midnight deadline Friday for free agency...If the Ravens re-sign Scott, Ray Lewis could be left out in the cold...Lewis apparently irritated owner Steve Bisciotti recently with his comments at the Pro Bowl about possibly playing for the Jets or the Cowboys, and was disappointed that Lewis didn't show loyalty to the franchise at the Pro Bowl. BaltimoreSun
The Kansas City Chiefs have created space under their salary cap by releasing quarterback Damon Huard, cornerback Patrick Surtain, linebacker Donnie Edwards and tight end Mike Merritt.
The Indianapolis Colts have announced that they have released wide receiver Marvin Harrison.
Quick Hits...The Indianapolis Colts will hold a 5:30 pm (est) press conference to address the Marvin Harrison situation...The Minnesota Vikings have re-signed cornerback Charles Gordon to a one-year contract.
Washington Redskins OT Chris Samuels has agreed to restructure his contract...his $5 million salary will be lowered and the Skins likely will save a few million in cap space, but aren't in any kind of position to set a spending record on a player like Albert Haynesworth. WashingtonPost
A Chicago Bears Fan was charged $28,067.31 by AT&T to watch a game on his computer...the Bears fan, Wayne Burdick, was watching the game on his computer from a port in Miami, where he was waiting to take a cruise...he was using a Slingbox to watch the game while getting a (non-roaming) signal from his unlimited wireless card and expected a bill around $200...he received a bill 140 times that size...But at least the Bears won the game, 27-23 over the Lions. SbG
The Tennessee Titans reportedly have interest in Pittsburgh Steelers free agent WR Nate Washington. CityPaper
The official times for the defensive backs group have been released and are as follows: Chris Clemons 4.41,
Lardarius Webb 4.46, David Bruton 4.46, Vontae Davis 4.46, Brandon Hughes 4.50, CJ Spillman 4.50, Chip Vaughn 4.51,
Chris Owens 4.51, Kevin Barnes 4.52, Sherrod Martin 4.52;
The Washington Redskins are reportedly ready to break the bank to sign Titans DT Albert Haynesworth...the contract could break $100 million, with an average of $15 to $16 million per season. HoustonChronicle
Michael Crabtree might not run after all...speaking by phone on the NFL Network with Rich Eisen, Deion Sanders, Mike Mayock, and Charles Davis, Crabtree stated that he is considering going ahead and having the surgery on his foot, instead of putting it off until after his Proday....the move will please NFL teams and ensure that he will be ready for the start of the NFL training camps... However, he stated that he still needs time to re-evaluate the situation and talk it over with his agent and his family before reaching a final decision.
The agent for free-agent center Matt Birk and the Vikings are expected to continue contract talks later this week after a productive meeting on Friday at the Combine. Startribune
San Diego Chargers GM A.J. Smith left the Indianapolis Combine with the Ladainian Tomlinson situation unresolved.
The two sides met Sunday at the combine, but the content of those talks has not been disclosed by either party...The issue will probably come to a conclusion by Thursday, when Smith will meet with the media to discuss offseason plans and announce which players have been cut. NCTimes
Combine Notes...Unofficial 40 yard dash times from the defensive backs group - CB Brandon Hughes 4.36,
Chris Clemons 4.41, David Bruton 4.43, Malcolm Jenkins 4.55, Victor Harris 4.57, Vontae Davis 4.43, Darius Butler 4.45,
Kevin Barnes 4.46, Jarius Byrd 4.48, Louis Delmas 4.50, Kevin Ellison 4.82, Stephon Hodge 4.49, Emanuel Cook 4.67, Patrick Chung 4.51, Cary Harris 4.58, Lendy Holmes 4.71;
The Redskins could pursue Buffalo Bills' linebacker Angelo Crowell in the upcoming free-agency period. Washtimes
San Francisco 49'ers GM Scott McCloughan and head coach Mike Singletary mentioned the need to find a tackle, whether in the draft or in free agency...Coach and GM also mentioned as areas of need safety, running back, wide receiver and pass rusher. SFGate
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay insisted late Monday that Tom Condon, Harrison's agent, was "premature" earlier in the day when he said the Colts had agreed to release their veteran receiver...Asked if it still were possible for Harrison to remain with the Colts, Irsay replied, "Definitely.'' IndyStar
USC Linebacker Brian Cushing's stock has taken a hit despite a pretty good Combine...scouts in the stands at Indy were reportedly buzzing about reports that Cushing spends thousands of dollars a month on nutritional supplements, which raises questions about how maxed out Cushing might be. CBSSports
Harold Lewis, who represents Bart Scott and Jason Brown, said yesterday that he is optimistic either Scott or Brown will re-sign with the Ravens before free agency begins Friday. BaltimoreSun
USC linebacker Clay Matthews III wouldn't mind being a Cleveland Brown...his father, Clay Matthews holds the Browns' franchise record with 232 games played..."It would mean a lot," the younger Matthews said. "I always have a smile on my face when I talk to the Cleveland Browns representatives." The Browns will be scouting linebackers heavily for the upcoming draft. Cleveland.com
It appears that T.O. will remain a Cowboy, since Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Monday the media was correct last week to assume his comments meant that he had no plans to cut Terrell Owens. DallasNews
The Denver Broncos are preparing to be very active in free-agency and are expected to add seven or eight free-agent players...Their needs include: a starting cornerback, one or two safeties, a nose tackle, one or two defensive ends, one or two linebackers, a No. 3-type receiver, a backup quarterback and possibly a running back. DenverPost
Charles Barkley will serve 5 days in jail after pleading guilty Monday to charges of driving drunk ...According to Scottsdale court records, the 45-year-old former NBA star pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor charges related to the same drunken driving arrest...I was gonna drive around the corner and get (oral sex)," Barkley told a police officer, according to the official police report. He explained that the girl had performed oral sex on him a week earlier, and it was the best such experience of his life...Barkley, who works as a TV analyst, is set to serve five days in jail on March 21. FoxSports
Quick Hits...The Washington Redskins are reportedly very interested in Cowboys free agent DE Chris Canty and could take a flier on Packers tackle Mark Tauscher. Washington Post
Former Raiders and Jaguars wide receiver Jerry Porter intends to test the free-agent market, but will likely be headed back to Oakland. Raiderbeat
02/23...The Houston Texans will release DE Anthony Weaver on Tuesday according to Adam Schefter. NFL.com
Quick Hits...The Oakland Raiders have released OT Kwame Harris and FB Justin Griffith...the Indianapolis Colts have released wide receiver Marvin Harrison, according to his agent Tom Condon.
Detroit Lions quarterback Dan Orlovsky will be testing the open market in free agency after rejecting the Lions latest offer...Orlovsky was reportedly told that he would be competing for a backup position. Freep.com
Quick Hits...Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Tommy Kelly has agreed to restructure his contract to reduce the Raiders' cap number....The New York Jets have restructured the contracts of safety Kerry Rhodes and linebacker Calvin Pace to create space under their salary cap...Former Bills defensive end Anthony Hargrove has been reinstated by the league from his one-year suspension for violating the leagues' substance abuse policy.
Quick Hits...The New York Jets have restructured the contracts of safety Kerry Rhodes and linebacker Calvin Pace to create space under the teams' salary cap...Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Tommy Kelly has agreed to restructure his contract to help the Raiders cap number....and Former Bills defensive end Anthony Hargrove has been reinstated by the NFL from his one-year suspension.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are reportedly shopping TE George Wrighster and DT Tony McDaniel...the Jaguars called their former VP of personnel James Harris over the weekend to see if the Lions would be interested. Jacksonville.com
Combine Notes...The top official 40 yard dash times from the Linebackers were just announced, and are as follows:
1. Aaron Curry 4.56, 2. Stanley Arnoux 4.61, 3. Gerald McGrath 4.61, 4. Clay Matthews 4.67, 5. Jason Phillips 4.69
USC Linebacker Rey Maualuga suffered a hamstring injury during his forty-yard dash attempt.
The Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings are close to completing a trade that would send Texans quarterback Sage Rosenfels to the Vikings for a fourth round draft pick. Chron.com
Minnesota Vikings Hall of Famer Carl Eller was found guilty of assaulting a Minneapolis police officer and failing to cooperate while police tried to give him a sobriety test last spring...Eller left the Hennepin County District Courthouse today in handcuffs to begin serving 60 days in the workhouse. Startribune
Combine Notes...Texas DE Brian Orakpo injured his hamstring during the field drills and is finished for the day. Orakpo said that he heard a "pop" in his hamstring, but the injury is being considered a "tweak" at this time...stay tuned.
Combine...The top official 40 yard dash times from the Defensive linemen were just announced and are as follows:
1. Lawrence Sidbury 4.64, 2. Connor Barwin 4.66, 3. Brian Orakpo 4.70, 4. Everette Brown 4.74, 5. Michael Johnson 4.75.
The receiver starved Philadelphia Eagles could be a landing spot for Indianapolis Colts WR Marvin Harrison if he's given his outright release by the Colts...Harrison lives in Philly where he operates a restaurant, and was a teammate of Eagles QB Donovan McNabb, when the two attended Syracuse university.
The Buffalo Bills have introduced a classic Bills 50th Anniversary Season logo...the logo is on a patch that the team will wear on their current uniforms, and is on display at the Bills Online Store.
Philadelphia Eagles president Joe Banner told the Daily News that his team is open to trading CB Lito Sheppard if the Eagles would get the right value in return...also, the agents for safety Brian Dawkins offensive tackle Tra Thomas will know what the Eagles have in mind contract-wise before the start of free agency, and will be free to leave if there's a better deal somewhere else. Philly.com
Quick Hits...The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly very interested in Colts' free agent center Jeff Saturday...the Packers are trying to re-sign DT Colin Cole before he hits the open market in free agency...and the Bills are hoping to reach an agreement with CB Jabari Greer before Friday.
Peter King of SI.com reports Redskins owner Dan Snyder was having dinner with Chad Speck, the agent for soon to be free agent DT Albert Haynesworth at Morton's in Indianapolis, site of the Combine on Saturday night. SI
Minnesota Vikings QB Gus Frerotte will return to the team if he's paid a roster bonus of $250,000 that is due in March...tight end Jim Kleinsasser and center Matt Birk are also expected to return if terms on a new contract can be reached...but safety Darren Sharper is expected to sign with the New Orleans Saints. Startribune
Combine...Florida wide receiver Percy Harvin took part in the bench press and the 40 yard dash at the Combine, but passed on the field drills because he tweaked his ankle in the BCS Championship game...Harvin stated that his ankle isn't completely healed to the point where he can cut, but he can run straight ahead.
Baltimore Ravens center Jason Brown will likely test the free-agency waters on Friday since it's believed there is a gap in negotiations between Brown and the Ravens...Brown excels against top nose tackles, but struggled in space against 4-3 defenses...Since the Ravens play two 3-4 defenses in the AFC North, they might want Brown back. Baltimoresun
Al's Draft Tip...Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree's stock took a hit in Indy before the announcement that he will need surgery on his left foot. Crabtree was viewed by many as the second coming of Larry Fitzgerald (a big play-making receiver) because of his tremendous production on the field, and his size - listed as 6-3 215 in the Red Raiders media guide. However, when Crabtree was measured on Friday, it was revealed that he's actually 6-1.2, which is almost two inches shorter than his listed size. Big receivers like Fitzgerald, create a mismatch against smaller cornerbacks, and are a defensive coordinators nightmare. Michael Crabtree was just that, before he was measured at the Combine on Friday.
Tennessee Titans CB/RS Chris Carr is prepared to test the open market in free-agency since Carr and the Titans are far from agreeing to terms on a new contract according to his agent, Buddy Baker. Tennessean
Indianapolis Colts WR Marvin Harrison reportedly refused to restructure his contract with a significant pay cut and has asked the Colts for his release from the team.
02/22...Quick Hits...The Washington Redskins are concerned that WR Malcolm Kelly’s knee is going to be an on-going concern...team officials worry that the injury will be a source of concern and unsteadiness for the foreseeable future... Miami Dolphins center Samson Satele appears to be on shaky ground in Miami after a disappointing sophomore slump. PFW
Quick Hits...The Oakland Raiders will reportedly release WR Javon Walker before his $5 million dollar March 3rd roster bonus becomes due..The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly parting ways with free agent SS Lawyer Milloy...the Buffalo Bills will be parting ways with quarterback J.P. Losman according to team COO Russ Brandon.
Combine Notes...Ohio State RB Chris "Beanie" Wells ran slower (4.59) in the 40 than expected...Georgia RB Knowshon Moreno also ran slower (4.55) in the forty than expected...Penn State WR Derrick Williams reportedly was suffering from the effects of the flu and ran slower (4.58, 4.67) in the 40 than expected.
Combine Notes...North Carolina WR Brandon Tate did not participate in the forty-yard dash at the Combine because of an ACL injury...Missouri receiver Jeremy Macklin and North Carolina receiver Hakeem Nicks both suffered minor leg injuries while running pass routes during today's receiver drills.
The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly closing in on a contract agreement with quarterback Kurt Warner.
The Denver Broncos have hired Keith Kidd to become their new pro scouting director...Kidd was the Patriots assistant director of pro scouting from 2002-04, and has a relationship with Broncos coach Josh McDaniels.
The Denver Broncos will reportedly be targeting a cornerback in the up-coming free-agency period and have CBs Bryant McFadden and Ronald Bartell targeted when the free agency frenzy begins on February 27. DenverPost
The Jets will be targeting Ravens' linebackers Ray Lewis and Bart Scott in free agency, hoping to come away with one...look for the Jets to stage a full-court press on Scott and Lewis as soon as the free-agent bell rings. NYDailynews
The Detroit Lions may target a linebacker with 20th overall pick...while most of the attention is focused on the Lions' No. 1 pick in the April draft, the Lions have another important decision awaiting them at No. 20 of the first round...the Lions have a huge need at linebacker, where they need to fill two starting positions and might have a shot at USC LB's Rey Maualuga and Brian Cushing, or OSU linebacker James Laurinaitis with the pick. MLive
Kansas City Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli is not wed to the third overall pick in the NFL draft...Pioli stated that there might be opportunities to manipulate the draft board, moving up or down, and gain draft picks or give away draft picks to get veteran players. KansasCity.com
Combine...Gil Brandt reports Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree has decided against having surgury on his foot and is considering moving up his private workout for NFL teams from March 26.
Indianapolis Colts center Jeff Saturday has been unable to reach a contract agreement with the Colts and is planning to enter free agency on Friday...Saturday said he will leave the door open to returning to the Colts. ESPN
Combine Notes...West Virginia QB Pat White told NFL teams that he's willing to make a position switch if that's what it takes to make it at the next level...Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree stated that he isn't planning on having surgery on his foot, and he will run the 40 at his private workout on March 26...Northeastern TE Brian Mandeville has been informed by NFL team doctors that he should not play football moving forward due to a heart ailment.
02/21...Quick Hits...The Pittsburgh Steelers signed offensive tackle Max Starks to a one-year, $8.45 million dollar contract. The Bills have reportedly offered unrestricted free agent CB Jabari Greer a five-year $20 million dollar contract.
The New England Patriots and the Buffalo Bills are the front-runners to land free-agent running back Fred Taylor.. Tayor is expected to visit both teams this week and has a relationship with Bills' head coach Dick Jauron, as Jauron was on the staff in Jacksonville when Taylor was drafted in 1998. Projo
Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree has a slight stress fracture in his left foot which will require surgery. Crabtree will have a screw inserted in his foot, and is expected to miss the next 10 weeks of workouts, but plans on working out for NFL teams before the Draft.
Baltimore Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome "hinted" during an interview at the Combine that the Ravens are prepared to part ways with free agent kicker Matt Stover and safety Jim Leonhard. Baltimoresun
Adam Schefter reports, Alvin Keels the agent for Alabama OT Andre Smith stated that his client left the Combine early and flew back to Atlanta for two previously scheduled workouts with his trainer...Keels is taking the hit for the lack of communication and not notifying the officials at the Combine.
Alabama OT Andre Smith is missing from the NFL Scouting Combine this morning...there are conflicting reports about where the Outland trophy winner is, but he's been the talk of the Combine, in a very negative way.
The Atlanta Falcons will be focusing on the defensive side of the ball in free-agency and in the draft since the team has five defensive starters from last season (Grady Jackson, Keith Brooking, Michael Boley, Domonique Foxworth and Lawyer Milloy) that will be become free agents on Feb. 27. AJC
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said Friday at the NFL Scouting Combine that he couldn't envision the Bengals bringing back both WR's T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco..."I don’t think that scenario would exist," Lewis said. ProFootballWeekly
Combine Buzz...The latest buzz circulating around the Combine is the Buffalo Bills covet Houston Texans tight end Owen Daniels....the Bills are expected to make a strong play for his services in the upcoming free-agency period.
Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith admitted Friday that he told Dunta Robinson he wouldn't use the franchise tag on the veteran cornerback, but changed his mind when they failed to agree on a long-term contract. Chron
Combine Notes...Ball State quarterback Nate Davis measured in at 6-1.6 226 yesterday...Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel measured in at 6-0 even, which was taller that what the scouts expected him to be....LSU guard Herman Johnson admited to weighing 411 pounds when he was a freshman, but has worked closely with a nutritionist and has kept his weight in the 360's since weighing 385 at the Senior Bowl...Pittsburgh running back LeSean McCoy has dropped 10 pounds due to the flu and weighed in at 198 pounds.
Two NFL teams with unsettled quarterback situations, the San Francisco 49ers and the Minnesota Vikings, might consider acquiring suspended Atlanta Falcons star Michael Vick...49ers' coach Mike Singletary said Vick deserves the chance to play in the league, and believes he will be successful if he returns...Vikings coach Brad Childress said the Vikings are looking for someone to challenge Tarvaris Jackson, and are willing to make moves to ensure that it happens. SI
02/20...The New York Jets are reportedly ready to part ways with OG Brandon Moore...the move will save the Jets roughly $7 million in cap space...Moore was scheduled to receive a $7 million roster bonus on March 5. NJ.com
The Oakland Raiders have released S Gibril Wilson, DE Kalimba Edwards and WR Ronald Curry...the Eagles re-signed CB Joselio Hanson...and the Patriots re-signed OG Billy Yates.
The Buffalo Bills will be changing their logo for the 2009 season, which is their 50th anniversary season...the Bills will unveil their new logo on Monday.
Combine Notes...Texas tech WR Michael Crabtree was measured at 6-1.2 215 which was shorter than his 6-foot 3-inch listing at Tech...USC QB Mark Sanchez has visits scheduled with the Lions, Chiefs, Niners, Redskins, Vikings, Jaguars and Buccaneers...Texas Tech OG Louis Vasquez did 39 reps at 225 lbs on the bench press for offensive lineman, which was the best of all the lineman that lifted today...the rest of the top five - Travis Bright of BYU 34, Juan Garcia Washington 34, Jason Smith Baylor 33, Alex Boone Ohio State 33, A.Q. Shipley Penn State 33, and Robby Felix UTEP 33.
Combine Notes...Georgia QB Matthew Stafford was measured at 6-2.2 225, USC QB Mark Sanchez was 6-2.1 227, Kansas State QB Josh Freeman was 6-5.6 248...Alabama OT Andre Smith announced today that he will not perform any of the drills at the Combine....USC QB Mark Sanchez will perform in all of the throwing drills.
Mark Bartelstein the agent for Kurt Warner said Warner’s goal is to play for two more seasons and have an option for a third year...the Cardinals maintain exclusive negotiating rights with Warner until free agency opens. SunTimes
Quick Hits...The New Orleans Saints are close to signing former Lions free agent TE Dan Campbell....The Titans are reportedly negotiating a contract for backup QB Chris Simms and will reportedly match any offer that QB Kerry Collins receives on the open market...the Titans are also planning on re-signing DT Albert Hayensworth.
Quick Hits...The Redskins will reportedly release LB Marcus Washington today...the Dolphins are reportedly closing in on a contract agreement with OT Vernon Carey...and the Titans have reportedly re-signed WR Justin McCareins.
The New York Jets have released TE Chris Baker...the team would have reportedly needed to guarantee Baker a $9 million dollar payout over the next three seasons if he remained on the roster after March 5. Fox
The Detroit Lions are considering moving left tackle Jeff Backus over to guard, which would pave the way for the Lions to consider taking an offensive tackle with the first overall pick in the Draft.
Quick Hits...Florida TE Cornelius Ingram was cleared medically and will participate in all the drills at the Combine.
Ingram missed all of 2008 season after tearing his left ACL during fall practices...Alabama OT Andre Smith isn't sure if he's going to work out at the Combine...the New York Jets have released LB's David Bowens and Brad Kassell.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Edmonton Eskimos (CFL) WR Kelly Campbell to a one-year deal worth $535,000..
Campbell played four years in the NFL with the Vikings and Dolphins. Pewterreport
02/19...Buffalo Bills' running back Marshawn Lynch will reportedly be charged with three misdemeanor gun possession charges following his arrest in Culver City, California last week. WGRZ.com
Wyoming running back Devin Moore (5-9.4 190) worked out in front of 14 NFL team officials in Indianapolis today...Moore wasn't invited to the Combine, but held his own private “pro day” at a sports-training facility near the airport in Indy. Moore ran the 40 in 4.41 and 4.43, had a 35-inch vertical jump and a 10-foot long jump...Moore also posted times of 4.22 and 4.29 in the 20-yd shuttle, recorded a 7.14 3-cone drill, and did 27 reps at 225 on the bench press.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Antonio Bryant is upset that he was "franchised" by the Bucs...Bryant will reportedly refuse to sign the offer and test the free-agent market, or hold out. TBO
The Kansas City Chiefs hired Cardinals' running backs coach Maurice Carthon to serve as assistant head coach.
Quick Hits...The Buccaneers and Falcons are reportedly the leading contenders to land free agent DT Albert Haynesworth...The Lions won't pay Jon Kitna's March 1 roster bonus, and plan to release the veteran quarterback...the Redskins are reportedly prepared to let CB DeAngelo Hall and OG Pete Kendall hit the open market in free-agency...Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin will reportedly play for the Cards in '09 if the two sides can agree on a new deal.
Quick Hits...The Pittsburgh Steelers have slapped their franchise tag on OT Max Starks...the Oakland Raiders have reached an agreement on a three-year, $45M dollar contract with Nnamdi Asomugha... $26 million is guaranteed...the Titans placed their non-exclusive franchise tag on tight end Bo Scaife...the Panthers have slapped the franchise tag on DE Julius Peppers, and came to terms on a contract with OT Jordan Gross.
The Cleveland Browns are "shopping" QB Derek Anderson at the Combine, and a rumor that is gaining steam has the Tampa Bay Bucs being very interested in Anderson...the Browns would reportedly settle for a third round pick in return. Tbo
Quick Hits...The Texans slapped their franchise tag on CB Dunta Robinson...ESPN's John Clayton reports the Seahawks have used their franchise tag on linebacker LB LeRoy Hill...Pittsburgh HB LeSean McCoy will reportedly do all of the drills a the Combine, but skip the bench press after feeling the effects of the flu.
The Carolina Panthers are close to finalizing a frontloaded, six-year agreement with OT Jordan Gross that would pay him $30.5 million over the first three years of the deal, which would allow them to place their franchise tag on defensive end Julius Peppers. Charlotte.com
The Houston Texans are in on-going contract negotiations in an effort to re-sign cornerback Dunta Robinson...the Texans will consider designating him as the first franchise player in team history if a deal cannot be worked out before the deadline to tag players which is 4:00 pm (est) today.
Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson, Baltimore's GM Ozzie Newsome, Atlanta's Rich McKay and Indianapolis' GM Bill Polian are scheduled to speak to the draft prospects at the Combine about how this process is a job interview and how important it is that they put their best foot forward.
General Manager Thomas Dimitroff, Head coach Mike Smith, director of player personnel Les Snead, director of college scouting David Caldwell and coordinators Mike Mularkey and Brian VanGorder will be the primary interviewers at the Combine for the Atlanta Falcons...all of the Falcons assistant coaches will watch player workouts. AJC
Quick Hits...The Tampa Bay Bucs have re-signed DT Ryan Sims....Adam Schefter reports the Titans will use their franchise player designation on tight end Bo Scaife.
Combine...Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey could crack the 4.2s in his 40 time at the Combine based on his impressive workouts at Athletes' Performance...South Carolina CB Captain Munnerlyn, might help himself by running one of the fastest times of anyone at the Combine...Connecticut CB Darius Butler will turn heads this week with his speed and athleticism...Southern Miss TE Shawn Nelson will reportedly run in the 4.4s in the 40 at the Combine. Nola.com
Former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Troy Walters was named offensive coordinator for Indiana State's football team, coach Trent Miles announced on Wednesday.
NFL teams have until 4 p.m. (est) today to designate potential free agents as either franchise or transition player.
The New Orleans Saints plan to tender offers to restricted free agents receiver Lance Moore, guard Jahri Evans and offensive tackle Zach Strief, meaning the Saints would have the right to match any offers the players sign elsewhere, and receive draft-pick compensation if the players leave. Nola.com
The Oakland Raiders agreed to terms with punter Shane Lechler on a four-year, $12M dollar contract with $9 million guaranteed...the Raiders are also "actively shopping" DE Derrick Burgess at the Combine and are reportedly closing in on a deal with free agent CB Nnamdi Asomugha.
Quick Hits...The Colts re-signed CB Kelvin Hayden to a five-year, $43M dollar contract with $22.5 million guaranteed, and are reportedly ready to part ways with WR Marvin Harrison...Missouri tight end Chase Coffman will not participate at the Combine due to a broken foot...the Buffalo Bills and the New York Jets are reportedly very interested in signing former Patriots WR Kelley Washington.
02/18...The Tennessee Titans have reached an agreement with kicker Rob Bironas on a four-year $12M dollar contract.
Quick Hits...The Patriots have signed OLB Tully Banta-Cain....Banta-Cain was originally drafted by the Patriots in 2003...the Jets are scheduled to visit with former Patriots receiver Kelley Washington...the Tampa Bay Bucs have placed their franchise tag on WR Antonio Bryant....the Tennesse Titans have placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on K Rob Bironas....the Chargers slapped their non-exclusive franchise tag on HB Darren Sproles....and the Baltimore Ravens assigned the non-exclusive franchise tag to OLB Terrell Suggs.
Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers will reportedly agree to be traded to only four teams, three of them are in the NFC, and two are reportedly teams the Panthers won't trade him to, which implies that the two teams play in the NFC South. Charlotte.com
Quick Hits...The Baltimore Ravens re-signed DT/DE Dwan Edwards to a one-year contract...The Buffalo Bills have re-signed linebacker John DiGiorgio...The NFL Network announced today that former Tampa Bay Bucs' coach Jon Gruden will join their coverage of the 2009 Scouting Combine from Indianapolis...Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford has decided to take part in the positional drills at the Combine, but won't participate in any of the throwing drills.
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth has decided not to re-sign with the Titans until he first gets to test the free-agent market. Adam Schefter
Quick Hits...The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly shopping offensive tackle Winston Justice...The Cowboys will reportedly part ways with free agent linebacker Zach Thomas...The Dolphins will reportedly be targeting Ravens free agent center Jason Brown in the upcoming free-agency period...the Raiders are expected to release wide receiver Ronald Curry.
The Minnesota Vikings waived running back and kickoff return man Maurice Hicks this morning...Hicks spent one season with the team...The Vikings will be looking to the draft or free agency for a return man. Startribune
Adam Schefter reports California center Alex Mack won't take part in drills at the Combine in Indianapolis this week due to a sprained ankle ... Mack will complete his interviews at the Combine and return to training in anticipation of his Pro Day in Berkeley on March 18. NFL.com
Sirius NFL Radio reports former Giants' linebacker Brad Van Pelt passed away on Tuesday at the age of 57.
The Tampa Bay Bucs will reportedly make receiver Antonio Bryant their franchise player if they're unable to reach a deal by Thursday's deadline to apply the designation. TampaBay.com
The Indianapolis Colts have informed punter Hunter Smith that the team won't offer him a new contract, allowing him to hit the NFL's free-agent market Feb. 27...the Colts claimed punter Mike Dragonsavich off waivers from Cleveland earlier this month. IndyStar
Al's Scoop...Baltimore Ravens' safety Jim Leonhard is poised to test the waters of free-agency if he and the Ravens are unable to reach a contract agreement by February 27...Leonhard's name will naturally be linked to the Jets since his former coach Rex Ryan is now the head honcho in New York, but Leonard's wife has family in the Atlanta area and the Falcons were very interested in signing Leonhard last year, before he chose to sign a one-year deal with the Ravens.
San Diego Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson pleaded not guilty to two charges of DUI in a San Diego County court Tuesday.
Free agent quarterback Chris Simms expressed his interest in playing for the Bears during an interview with the Chicago Tribune. Tribune
02/17...The Denver Broncos have released cornerback Dre' Bly...Bly spent two seasons with the Broncos after they acquired him in a trade from Detroit on March 2, 2007. DenverBroncos.com
Quick Hits...The New England Patriots released WR Kelley Washington and OG Billy Yates...The Kansas City Chiefs hired former Cardinals defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast to be their defensive coordinator today.
Al's Scoop...Marijuana was found in the car occupied by Marshawn Lynch last week which ultimately resulted in Lynch's arrest for possessing a firearm without a permit...the police approached the black Mercedes Lynch and two others were sitting in it because it was parked suspiciously with the engine running, and that the car didn't have proper license plates...
the arresting officers could smell a strong odor coming from the car, however, nobody was charged with possession since the officer found four small blunts, which none of the occupants claimed to be theirs.
Jacksonville Jaguars safety Gerald Sensabaugh Jr. was arrested last Friday for driving on a suspended license... Guns were found in Sensabaugh's possession during his arrest as well including a Bersa .380-cal. pistol, an AK-47 and a Glock .22-cal. handgun, but Sensabaugh was not charged for having guns in his car...this marks the second time in less than two years that Sensabaugh has been arrested. Timesnews
Detroit Lions quarterback Daunte Culpepper has agreed to restructured his contract which will run through the 2009 season...the Lions also announced that kicker Jason Hanson signed a four-year contract with the club. MLive
Quick Hits...Baltimore Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome stated that the Ravens will use their franchise tag on Terrell Suggs for the second year in a row if the team can’t reach a new deal with Suggs by Thursday...The New Orleans Saints have released veteran running back Deuce McAllister...and the Ravens re-signed defensive lineman Brandon McKinney.
New York Giants' running back Ahmad Bradshaw has been in a Virginia prison since Sunday, when he surrendered himself to authorities so he could begin serving the final 30 days of a jail sentence that he began serving last June. NYDaily
Quick Hits...The Buffalo Bills have re-signed wide receiver Justin Jenkins...Arizona Cardinals offensive quality control coach Dedric Ward will reportedly be hired by the Kansas City Chiefs.
Former Rams offensive coordinator Al Saunders interviewed for the Cardinals receivers coach position last week...Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt also interviewed Rutgers OC/quarterbacks coach John McNulty...former NFL quarterback Chris Miller could be the Cardinals new quarterbacks coach. AZCentral
New Orleans Saints cornerback Mike McKenzie, defensive tackle Brian Young, linebacker Mark Simoneau, quarterback Mark Brunell and defensive tackle Hollis Thomas could be asked to either renegotiate their contracts or face being released by the team...the Saints are trying to reduce their bulging salary cap. SunHerald
Quick Hits..The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are leaning toward using their franchise tag on cornerback Phillip Buchanon.
The Arizona Cardinals are expected to use their franchise tag on linebacker Carlos Dansby, meaning QB Kurt Warner will be free to test the free-agent market, if he doesn’t reach an agreement with the team by February 27... Minnesota Vikings owner Zygi Wilf said the Vikings wouldn't have any interest in quarterback Brett Favre if he was released by the Jets...LSU offensive tackle/guard Herman Johnson has lost over 30 pounds in his preparation for the NFL Combine.
San Francisco 49'ers head coach Mike Singletary told reporters at the teams' "state of the franchise" address in San Mateo that he has not ruled out the possibility of the team acquiring quarterback Michael Vick. Pressdemocrat
02/16...Navy fullback Eric Kettani, will not be attending this week’s NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis because of a ruling made by Navy superintendent Vice Admiral Jeff Fowler...Kettani is committed to the Navy for five years after his graduation this spring. NFL.com
Adam Schefter is reporting the Carolina Panthers are making a strong push to sign free-agent OT Jordan Gross by Thursday, which would enable the team to then slap its franchise tag on DE Julius Peppers. NFL.com
The Denver Broncos have released TE Nate Jackson, DT Dewayne Robertson, DE John Engelberger, LB Jamie Winborn, LB Niko Koutouvides, and SS Marquand Manuel.
The Detroit Lions have reached a contract agreement with offensive guard Stephen Peterman...Peterman has reportedly agreed to a five-year, $15 million contract with $5.5 million in guaranteed money.
Quick Hits...The Cincinnati Bengals slapped their franchise tag on kicker Shayne Graham...The Baltimore Ravens have released veteran cornerback Chris McAllister...and The Tampa Bay Bucs have notified QB Jeff Garcia that he is no longer in their future plans. TampaBay.com
The Jacksonville Jaguars have released veteran running back Fred Taylor.
Philadelphia Eagles' GM Tom Heckert doesn't expect halfback Correll Buckhalter to return to the Eagles and the free agent running back has talked publicly about finding a starting job with another team...Heckert also stated that offensive line was a main focus for the team, along with a backup running back. MyFoxPhilly.com
The Detroit Lions plan on holding a private workout for Georgia quarterback Matt Stafford, and will do extensive research on quarterbacks Mark Sanchez and Josh Freeman in the weeks leading up the the draft. MLive
People familiar with the Chiefs' coaching situation say Chan Gailey's not thrilled with the prospect of coaching for Todd Haley if indeed the head coach wants to call the plays....Chan Gailey is one of four remaining members of Herm Edward's staff still employed by the Chiefs, but one source indicated that doesn’t mean any or all of the four will be retained once the Chiefs' staff is set. KansasCity.com
The New York Giants are reportedly prepared to let defensive ends Renaldo Wynn and Jerome McDougle walk free in free agency. NYdailynews
02/15...To update our earlier report...Buffalo Bills running back Marshawn Lynch was arrested earlier this week..The following is the official news release from the Culver City, CA police:
On Wednesday Evening, February 11 2009, Culver City Police Officers were patrolling the Fox Hills area of Culver City when they contacted three adult males seated in a 2006 Mercedes Benz. Upon contacting the occupants they learned one of the subjects was Buffalo Bills running back; Marshawn Lynch. A subsequent field investigation led to the discovery of a loaded firearm. The officers determined the gun belonged to Lynch and he was arrested for posession of a concealed firearm. Lynch was transported to CCPD booked and later released on bail. The case will be submitted to the District Attorney's Office for filing consideration. Lynch was released on a $35,000 bond. The case now moves to the District Attorney.
Quick Hits...Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis wanted to hire Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham to coach the Raiders defense... Davis reportedly called Whittingham after seeing him on TV at the Sugar Bowl....Former University of Montana football player and coach Tim Hauck has been named assistant secondary coach for the Tennessee Titans...The Tampa Bay Bucs will reportedly bring in another quarterback, either through the draft or free agency, to challenge Luke McCown in training camp...Brian Griese and Josh Johnson will also be in the mix to compete.
The Dallas Cowboys are looking to add a veteran backup quarterback in free-agency...The Cowboys had an interest in Chris Simms last spring before he was cut by Tampa Bay and signed with Tennessee...Other possibilities include: Pittsburgh's Byron Leftwich, Buffalo's J.P. Losman, Detroit's Dan Orlovsky and Baltimore's Kyle Boller. DallasNews.com
The Atlanta Falcons are reportedly close to agreeing to terms with linebacker Coy Wire according to his agent. AJC
Buffalo Bills running back Marshawn Lynch was reportedly arrested in Culver City, California on February 11 for possession of a firearm...Pro Football Talk first reported this incident. ProFootballTalk
The Tampa Bay Bucs want wide receiver Antonio Bryant back, and are taking the necessary steps so that Bryant is back in a Buc uniform in 2009. Tampabay.com
02/14...Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Jeff Reed was charged with criminal mischief and disorderly conduct after throwing a tantrum over an empty paper towel machine at a Pennsylvania convenience store. Pittsburghlive
Quick Hits...Chicago Bears safety Mike Brown will hit the open market when free-agency begins since the Bears informed him on Friday that the team will not make him a contract offer...The Cleveland Browns have hired former Houston Oilers running back Gary Brown to coach the teams' running backs...Panthers DE Julius Peppers will request a trade if the Panthers place their franchise tag on him...Former Carolina Panthers cornerback Curtis Deloach was arrested and charged for allegedly assaulting a female in North Carolina.
The Arizona Cardinals have promoted linebackers coach Bill Davis to defensive coordinator. Ktar.com
Coach Ken Whisenhunt moved quickly with the hire in the possibility that Davis would be up for other jobs, such as the defensive coordinator position with the Kansas City Chiefs.
New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan said the Jets have no interest in quarterback Michael Vick. NYPost.com
The Baltimore Ravens are in the market for a shutdown cornerback since the possibility exists that both Samari Rolle and Chris McAlister will not return to the team next season. Baltimoresun.com
Kansas City could be a landing spot for recently released wide receiver Marty Booker...Booker was new Chiefs' head coach Todd Haley's prized pupils a few years ago when Haley coached the Bears' wide receivers in 2001-03. KC.com
The Philadelphia Eagles have no intention of bringing back free-agent tight end L.J. Smith and would like to find a decent blocking tight end in this year's draft to complement Brent Celek. Philly.com
The San Francisco 49'ers GM Scot McCloughan said he wants to acquire a big back in free-agency or the draft that would fit with the running game's downhill philosophy. SFgate
02/13...The Carolina Panthers named Brian Baker as their defensive line coach today...Baker spent the last three seasons as defensive line coach of the Rams, and had previously worked for the Lions, Vikings and Chargers.
The Kansas City Chiefs have released running backs coach Jon Embree, wide receivers coach Eric Price, tight ends coach Jon Embree, quality control coach Kevin Patullo and assistant linebackers coach Michael Ketchum.
The New York Giants have used their non-exclusive franchise tag on running back Brandon Jacobs...any team that attempts to sign Jacobs would owe the Giants two first-round draft picks. NJ.com
Quick Hits...The Chicago Bears released WR Marty Booker, LB Gilbert Gardner and LB Marcus Riley.....The Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly added ex-Saints defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs to their staff...The Falcons signed punter Michael Koenen to a one-year $2.48 million dollar contract....and the Bengals claimed punter Ryan Plackemeier off waivers from the Redskins.
The Atlanta Falcons are seeking to trade the rights to imprisoned and suspended quarterback Michael Vick....
Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff said the team is preparing to trade Vick’s contractual rights in an interview that appeared on the team’s website today. AJC
In a conversation with Tom Curran of NBCSports.com former NFL coach Mike Martz stated that “People are determined to keep me out of the league. It’s been going on for three years and at this point, I can’t fight it. I just can’t fight it. Three years of people putting it out there that I’m a high-maintenance lunatic". NBCSports
Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford will reportedly skip the workout part of next weeks Combine, but will instead showcase his talents for NFL teams at his Pro Day workout. AJC
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth is being blamed for causing an accident that left a Tennessee man needing hip replacement and has a district attorney reviewing the Dec. 13 incident for a possible probation violation... the case is being reviewed and could go to a grand jury as early as March 9 because Haynesworth should have reported the incident to his parole officer. Yahoo
Al's Scoop...The Carolina Panthers head coach John Fox is targeting former Rams' coach Jim Haslett to become his new defensive coordinator. Haslett would replace Mike Trgovac who left the team after the season ended.
The Washington Redskins restructured the contracts for DE Andre Carter and WR Antwaan Randle El, saving the team a total of $4.4 million in salary cap space...the Redskins were reportedly about $5 to $7 million over the salary cap before these two restructures. WashingtonPost
Linebacker Dan Morgan, who retired last season because of injuries, was reinstated Thursday by the NFL three weeks after expressing interest about making a comeback...Morgan signed a one-year deal with the Saints last season and is on their roster. ESPN
02/12...Denver Broncos V.P. of Football Operations Jim Goodman an his son Jeff Goodman, another Broncos personnel executive have been released by the team...Jim Goodman will be replaced by assistant general manager Brian Xanders.
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Roderick Green was arrested back on February 2nd after he became uncooperative during a traffic stop in his hometown of Brenham, Texas. ESPN
Quick Hits...The New Orleans Saints released WR David Patten....The Redskins claimed HB Anthony Alridge off waivers from the Broncos and waived P Ryan Plackemeier....The Falcons signed OT Will Svitek....The Broncos released DT Josh Shaw and signed OG Matt McChesney.
The New England Patriots promoted Shane Waldron from offensive assistant to tight ends coach and named Jon Robinson as director of college scouting.
Kirk Ferentz has reportedly agreed to seven-year contract extension to coach the Iowa Hawkeyes.
The Tennessee Titans will name Chuck Cecil as their new defensive coordinator at a press conference that has been scheduled for 3 p.m....the team is also expected to promote Marcus Robertson to secondary coach....Robertson just completed his second season as assistant secondary coach. Tennessean
The Detroit Lions have hired former Jaguars personnel man James "Shack" Harris as Senior Personnel Executive. MLive
The Atlanta Falcons will release linebacker Keith Brooking before Feb. 23, when he's reportedly due a $1 million dollar roster bonus. Profootballweekly
Quick Hits...The Colts signed punter Mike Dragosavich...Dragosavich spent time on the Patriot's practice squad last December...The Steelers have reportedly begun negotiating a contract extension for linebacker James Harrison...The Atlanta Falcons will reportedly place their franchise tag on punter Michael Koenen...Rams wide receiver Torry Holt has switched agents to Kennard McGuire...Since Brett Favre has retired, the Packers are going to have to ship a seventh-round pick in the 2010 Draft to the Jets as part of the trade they made in August.
The Arizona Republic reports the Cardinals will seriously consider trading Anquan Boldin by April. Azcentral.com
The Baltimore Ravens are expected to begin serious negotiations with linebacker Ray Lewis sometime next week. Baltmoresun
2/11...The Denver Broncos have waived RB Alex Haynes, RB P.J. Pope, RB Anthony Alridge, WR Cliff Russell and TE Chad Mustard.
Drew Rosenhaus, the agent for New York Giants wide reciever Plaxico Burress, has reportedly informed the other 31 NFL teams that his client might be available to play for them....and the Giants apparently aren't happy. NJ.com
According to the NY Daily News, Brett Favre has already submitted his retirement papers to the NFL, making his decision to retire official. NYDailyNews
The Washington Redskins re-signed CB Byron Westbrook and hired Chip Garber as defensive quality control coach...
Westbrook is the younger brother of Eagles HB Brian Westbrook...Garber coached 27 years in college and was the defensive backs coach of the CFL's Hamilton Tiger-Cats last season. WashingtonPost
The Jacksonville Jaguars have released WR Jerry Porter and CB Drayton Florence.
Iowa Hawkeyes HB Shonn Greene reportedly ballooned to 300 pounds during his year way from football in 2007 which will likely have some NFL teams concerned...Greene carries a 2nd to 4th round draft grade at this time. Gazetteonline
Al's Scoop...I find it hard to believe that the Patriots will deal quarterback Matt Cassel, since numerous reports have the Patriots willing to deal him for draft picks. The last time I checked the draft is being held in April, and there's no possible way that the Patriots will know for sure by then that Tom Brady will be back in time for the start of the '09 season. This is the first significant injury that Tom Brady has suffered in his career, so there is no way to tell how he will respond, plus Brady will be 32-years old when the upcoming season begins. Brady could also suffer a setback in his recovery and the Patriots would be stuck with Kevin O'Connell as their starter if they dealt Cassel before the season started. The Patriots will find a way to keep Cassel and his salary, even if it means restructuring several players' deals. Mark this down, Matt Cassel won't be traded anytime soon, or at least until the Patriots are 100% sure that Tom Brady will be ready to start the season as their starting quarterback.
Ex-Eagles wide receiver Freddie Mitchell is under investigation after accepting a package allegedly containing about 7 pounds of marijuana....Mitchell was handcuffed, but not arrested, last Thursday after signing for the package at his restaurant, Brothers Bar-B-Q in Lakeland. Philly.com
Quarterback Brett Favre has instructed his agent Bus Cook to inform the New York Jets that he plans to retire. ESPN
Don't be surprised if Matt Leinart's agents request for him to be traded if Kurt Warner and the Cardinals agree on a contract extension. AZCentral.com
Minnesota Golden Gophers wide receivers coach George McDonald has been hired by the Cleveland Browns... McDonald will coach the Browns' receivers as part of Eric Mangini’s new Cleveland staff.
The Carolina Panthers added NFL veterans Richard Smith as the new linebackers coach and Ron Milus to work with the secondary along with Mike Gillhamer, who returns from last year's team...Smith served as defensive coordinator of the Houston Texans the last three seasons and worked in the same capacity for the Miami Dolphins in 2005. CarolinaGrowl
The Post gazette reports that not only have the Steelers not given permission to the Cardinals to interview linebackers coach Keith Butler, no one from the Cardinals organization has asked to do so. PostGazette
The Miami Herald reports Bill Parcells informed the Dolphins late last year that he would leave the team following the season...Parcells reportedly sent owner Wayne Huizenga a message saying "I will exercise my right to leave once this season is over and the team sale is complete." MiamiHerald
02/10...Quick Hits...The Arizona Cardinals have reportedly fired quarterbacks coach Jeff Rutledge...the Miami Dolphins waived LB Kelvin Smith and OG Matt McChesney...the Raiders claimed QB Bruce Gradkowski off waivers from the Cleveland Browns and voided the contract of OC Jake Grove...the 49ers released OLB Tully Banta-Cain and SS Keith Lewis.....and the New York Jets released CB David Barrett.
The Houston Texans have released HB Ahman Green and OLB Morlon Greenwood.
Bucs head coach Raheem Morris and GM Mark Dominik envision Luke McCown as their quarterback of the future...the Bucs signed McCown to a two-year, $7.5 million contract that will guarantee him $5 million in 2009. TampaBay.com
The Philadelphia Eagles are in position to be real players in the upcoming free-agency period...the Eagles have about $35 to $40 million in available cap space and own two first-round picks in the draft. Delcotimes
New York Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum has stated that although the team would like to know by the start of the free-agent signing period or sooner, the team has not given Brett Favre any deadline to make a decision and a serious conversation with Favre about his future would take place in the next couple of weeks. NYPost
Al's Draft Scoop...Georgia quarterback Drew Stafford is considered to be one of the top quarterbacks available for the upcoming draft, but the talk around the league is that Stafford is actually shorter than his 6-2.7 listing. Stafford's height will certainly be one of the hottest topics at next weeks combine at Indianapolis, because his actual height will go a long way in determining where he gets drafted. Since 1995, only six quarterbacks have been taken in the first round of the draft that were under six-foot three-inches tall. Donovan McNabb and Cade McNown in 1999, Michael Vick in 2001, Rex Grossman in 2003, J.P. Losman in 2004, and Aaron Rodgers in 2005. There were only eight starting quarterbacks ( Drew Brees, David Garrard, Tyler Thigen, Tony Romo, Tavaris Jackson, Jake Delhomme, Kurt Warner and Jeff Garcia) on NFL teams this past season that were under six-foot three, and none of the eight were first round draft picks.
Former Washington Redskins linebacker Mel Kaufman has passed away at the age of 50...Kaufman played in three Super Bowls for the Redskins and was a former scout for the team.
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxixo Burress has reportedly been sued at least nine times since coming into the league in 2000 by people who said he failed to pay a debt, damaged their car or didn't pay his taxes. SI.com
Quick Hits...The New York Giants hired Lafayette College defensive line coach Al Holcomb as their defensive quality control coach...The New York Jets have hired former Ravens and Pitt offensive coordinator Matt Cavanaugh as their new QBs coach, former Raiders QBs coach John DeFilippo will serve as assistant QBs coach....ESPN reports University of Washington offensive coordinator Jim Michalczik has been hired by the Oakland Raiders to coach their offensive line.
XTRA's Mike Jurecki reports Anquan Boldin instructed his agent Drew Rosenhaus to tell the Cardinals that he wouldn't sign any new contract proposal from the Cards and that he wants to be traded. AZCardinals.com
02/09...The Arizona Cardinals have received permission to interview Steelers LBs coach Keith Butler for their defensive coordinator vacancy.
The Cleveland Browns have released QB Bruce Gradkowski, QB Ken Dorsey, K Jason Reda, P Mike Dragosavich, OL Eric Young, OLB Antwan Peek, and CB Terry Cousin.
Adam Schefter of the NFL Network reports that the Falcons will place their franchise tag on P Michael Koenen.
The Detroit Lions released TE Dan Campbell, OL Jon Dunn, CB Leigh Bodden and G Edwin Mulitalo.
Quick Hits...The New York Giants re-signed QB David Carr and released CB Sam Madison, HB Reuben Droughns and
S Sammy Knight...The Detroit Lions released S Dwight Smith and the Bucs re-signed QB Luke McCown a two-year contract.
Former Atlanta Falcons running back Jamal Anderson has been released from jail following his arrest on drug charges.
Anderson was let out on $6,000 bond Sunday evening...He worked as an NFL analyst for ESPN this past season. Yahoo
There has been rampant speculation that St. Louis Rams receiver Drew Bennett could be among the salary cap cuts by the Rams...Bennett might find his way back to Tennessee with Mike Heimerdinger where he enjoyed his best success...
but there are also rumors flying that Rams receiver Torry Holt might be swept aside in new coach Steve Spagnuolo’s rebuilding process as well. Thecitypaper
One of the league’s hottest rumors has Arizona Cardinals HB Edgerrin James going to Tampa to play for the Bucs...
James has apparently told folks close to him that he’d like to return to Florida. TBO
Quick Hits...The New York Jets are hoping to have an answer in 10 days (when the NFL scouting combine begins) from QB Brett Favre about his future with the club...Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers told NBC’s Tiki Barber he wants out of Carolina during a sideline interview at yesterday's Pro Bowl game...The Dallas Cowboys will officially part ways with cornerback Adam Jones today, the first day teams are allowed to waive players for the 2009 season.
02/08...The Arizona Cardinals reportedly called the 49ers on Friday to ask for the cell number of Mike Martz...Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt might consider Martz as the man to take over the Cardinals offense and could help convince Kurt Warner to go ahead and sign a two-year deal to remain with the Cardinals. Pressdemocrat
Indianapolis Colts DT Darrell Reid was arrested on Saturday night for disorderly conduct and spent the night in jail...
The arrest happened at Club Oxygen Nightclub in Indianapolis around 2:00 am. WTHR
There's growing speculation that the Redskins will make a play for DE Julius Peppers if the Panthers aren't able to sign Peppers to a long-term contract...Peppers is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent next month. Fredricksburg
The St. Louis Rams would free up $8 million of cap space by cutting or trading WR Torry Holt by June 1....the team would also save $6 million by cutting or trading OT Orlando Pace by June 1...the Rams would double their cap room from $14 million to $28 million by dispatching Pace and Holt. STLtoday
Cornerback Ken Lucas, linebacker Landon Johnson and wide receiver D.J. Hackett are three names being mentioned as possible cuts in Carolina for salary cap relief. Heraldonline
Quick Hits...The Indianapolis Colts promoted wide receivers coach Clyde Christensen to assistant head coach...
Matt Cassel has accepted the Patriots' franchise tender worth $14.651 million for 2009...The Dolphins will reportedly sign free agent SS Yeremiah Bell to a long-term deal before free agency begins on Feb. 27.
Former Atlanta Falcons running back Jamal Anderson was arrested Saturday night on drug charges...Anderson was booked into the Fulton County jail and charged with felony possession of cocaine and possession of marijuana...Atlanta police said Anderson and another man were arrested at the Peachtree Tavern in Buckhead, where both men were found with cocaine, while Anderson had a marijuana cigarette in his pocket....Anderson was denied bond and his court appearance will be Monday morning at 11 a.m. WSBRadio
02/07...Quick Hits...The Minnesota Vikings signed Edmonton Eskimos linebacker Kenny Onatolu... the Vikings were able to outbid the Dolphins, Jets and Buccaneers who were also interested in his services...elsewhere...the Washington Redskins are reportedly close to signing Edmonton Eskimos DE Brandon Guillory...Guillory led all Eskimos in sacks (six) in 11 regular-season games last season, and has nine sacks in 14 career CFL games.
The Tennessee Titans are expected to name secondary coach Chuck Cecil as their defensive coordinator next week
...Cecil and Dave McGinnis are the two finalists to replace Jim Schwartz.
Key dates to remember this month: Monday, February 9...The first day that NFL teams can release veteran players to begin trimming their salary cap. Wednesday, February 18...The first group of prospects arrive at the Combine in Indianapolis. Friday, February 27...The start of the NFL free agency period.
Philadelphia Eagles OT Jon Runyan had microfracture surgery performed on his knee last week, which will sideline him for four to six months....the surgury was performed by Dr. James Andrews. Philly.com
Former Dallas Cowboys receiver Michael Irvin says his lawyers have been in contact with police over him being threatened with a gun...Dallas police said last month they suspended their investigation because Irvin never returned their followup calls...Irvin said Friday that he filed a police report after the Jan. 12 incident, when two men in another vehicle pointed a gun at him at a stoplight. SI.com
02/06...The Oakland Raiders are reportedly expected to part ways with safety Michael Huff this offseason...Huff has been a major dissapointment for the team since being the 7th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft.
Al's Scoop...Pittsburgh Steelers linebackers coach Keith Butler is the front-runner to replace Clancy Pendergast as the Cardinals new defensive coordinator. Butler coached for six years with the Steelers’ organization and remained on the Steelers' staff following Mike Tomlin’s hiring, and was instrumental in the development of the Steelers’ highly regarded linebacking corps.
The Arizona Cardinals have fired defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast. AZCentral.com
Quick Hits...Bill Parcells has an unrestricted option to walk away from the team with his fully guaranteed salary, league sources said according to Chris Mortenson of ESPN.....The 49ers made it official today as they announced the hiring of Jimmy Raye as offensive coordinator and Mike Johnson as their quarterbacks coach...The Steelers signed 27-year old running back Stefan Logan to a 2-year contract today...Logan played for the B.C. Lions of the CFL.
The Kansas City Chiefs have scheduled a press conference for 2:00 pm (est) to formally introduce Todd Haley as the Chiefs new head coach...the Chiefs and Haley reportedly reached an agreement on a four-year contract worth $12 Million.
Oakland Raiders free agent punter Shane Lechler was reportedly punched in the face by teammate Terdell Sands during an argument on the Raiders' flight home from Denver on Nov. 23...Sands was neither suspended nor fined by the team, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. SFgate
To follow up on earlier reports by numerous media outlets, the real reason a deal reportedly fell through between the Cowboys and Dan Reeves was because of a hours-worked clause that Jerry Jones inserted into Dan Reeves contract at the eleventh hour...Reeves wasn't comfortable with the clause, while Jones insisted that it be part of the contract.
Jay Glazer of FoxSports reports the Kansas City Chiefs will name Cardinals offensive coordinator Todd Haley as their new head coach sometime today after the two sides work out terms of a contract agreement. FoxSports
02/05...the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hired former Boston College offensive coordinator Steve Logan...Logan will be the Bucs' running backs coach or be assigned to coach the tight ends.
University of Tennessee head coach Lane Kiffin issued an apology to The University of Florida and head coach Urban Meyer today for accusing Meyer of violating SEC rules by calling a recruit while on an official visit with another school...SEC rules state that there is no rule that would have prohibited Meyer from calling a prospect during an official visit at another schools' campus.
The New England Patriots slapped their franchise tag on QB Matt Cassel today...the tag assures Cassel of a $14.65 million dollar salary in 2009...the Patriots could also dangle Cassel as trade bait since teams like the Chiefs, Vikings, Jets, and Lions are reportedly interested in the former USC Trojan.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Michael Merritt was arrested early Thursday morning after being spotted inside a vehicle in a parking garage on West Central Boulevard rolling what appeared to be a marijuana cigarette. ClickOrlando.com
Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis reiterated at the Pro Bowl that he is not willing to take a hometown discount to stay in Baltimore...the Cowboys are rumored to be ready to pursue Lewis if he hits the market...but Lewis called landing with the Jets an attractive possibility since Ryan's old defensive coordinator Rex Ryan is now Jets head coach.
Dan Reeves told Sirius NFL Radio today that the reason a deal fell through between him and the Cowboys was that "he wasn't comfortable with the language in the contract" presented to him by Jerry Jones on Wednesday...Reeves wouldn't divulge the exact reason for the fallout, but when prodded by radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan, Reeves hinted that he thought that he would be responsible for reporting to the head coach and general manager only...so...it appears that Jerry Jones wanted Reeves to report to others in the Cowboys' organization as well.
University of Tennessee head coach Lane Kiffin has accused Florida's Urban Meyer of a recruiting violation in the recruitment of Pahokee, Fla. wide receiver Nu'Keese Richardson...Kiffin alleges that Meyer repeatedly called Richardson while he was on his official visit to UT...Kiffin revealed the accusation this morning at a recruiting celebration banquet. VolTV
Home run king Barry Bonds pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges he lied to a grand jury investigating steroid use in sports...Bonds’ upcoming trial is scheduled to start March 2nd..If convicted, Bonds faces a sentence between probation and two years in prison. NBCSports
Atlanta Falcons OT Todd Weiner has announced his retirement from football...Weiner spent 11 years in the league.
Al's Draft Scoop...One draft prospect to keep an eye on at the upcoming NFL Combine is Buffalo quarterback Drew Willy...Willy's name isn't mentioned as one of the top quarterback prospects for the '09 Draft, but even though he's flying under the radar so to speak, NFL teams are well aware of his potential and have been tracking his accomplishments this season...several NFL General Managers including Bill Polian of the Colts and Jerry Angelo of the Bears have been in attendance at Bulls games to personally get a first hand look at the prospect...Willy has good size (6-3 217), mobility, good arm strength, accuracy and has good leadership qualities...a solid combine would confirm what some NFL teams already know about Willy's potential, and would elevate his draft stock tremendously.
Cincinnati Bengals' wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh said he could be potentially interested in playing in Philadelphia during an interview yesterday with Mike Missanelli on ESPN 950.
Former Dallas Cowboys receiver Terry Glenn was arrested at a hotel last week on charges of public intoxication and possession of marijuana...Glenn also had four outstanding traffic warrants...A source familiar with the incident says Glenn had been seen roaming the hotel's hallways naked, but Irving, Texas PD could not confirm that account...Glenn was arrested Jan. 25 at 10:30 p.m. and posted bond Jan. 26 at 7:30 a.m. Dallasobserver
Arizona Cardinals LB Karlos Dansby said yesterday on Sirius NFL Radio that he wouldn't mind playing in a huge market when asked about possibly coming to the Giants...the Giants have a need at outside linebacker.
The agent for Titans tight end Bo Scaife said on Wednesday his client plans to test the open market when free agency begins....Scaife is scheduled to become a free agent Feb. 27. Tennessean
The Washington Redskin signed return specialist and running back Dominique Dorsey...Dorsey spent the last three years in the Canadian Football League and earned the John Agro Special Teams Award as the league's most outstanding special teams player.
Oakland Raiders running back Justin Fargas recently appeared in a "World Star Hip Hop" video....the video makes several direct references to smoking pot...Fargas doesn't smoke in the video, but a rapper named "Yukmouth" appears in the video with a blunt at Fargas' house. Video
Quick Hits....Dan Reeves will not take a consulting position with the Dallas Cowboys after all...the two sides reportedly couldn't agree on terms of a contract...The Detroit Lions will reportedly part ways with CB Leigh Bodden...Bodden was due a $8.6M roster bonus for the 2009 season....The Steelers are reportedly poised to part ways with free agent receiver Nate Washington.
02/04...Quick Hits...The Washington Redskins have signed veteran kicker Dave Rayner...Kansas City Chiefs HB Larry Johnson appearing as a guest on 610 Sports Radio in Kansas City this morning stated that he wants a clean break from the Chiefs organization...elsewhere...New York Jets OC Brian Schottenheimer hinted that he would feel comfortable with either Kellen Clemens or Brett Ratliff as the Jets' starter if Bree Favre decides to retire...He also said the team is doing its homework on veteran quarterbacks who might be available.
The Dallas Cowboys have yet to make an official announcement about Dan Reeves joining the team as a consultant for head coach Wade Phillips...but Reeves was at the team's facility on Monday and reportedly has an office. Star-telegram
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers named Doug Williams coordinator of pro scouting on Tuesday...Williams replaces Mark Dominik who was promoted to GM.
Tennessee Titans DT Albert Haynesworth is reportedly not happy with the pace of contract talks with the Titans... Haynesworth can become a free agent on Feb. 27.
Georgia QB Matthew Stafford has hired Tom Condon of Creative Artists Agency to represent him in team contract negotiations...Stafford earlier hired marketing agent Alan Zucker of IMG to represent him in off-the-field endeavors, such as marketing and endorsement deals. AJC
Penn State DE Maurice Evans and his former teammate must each serve a year's probation after being charged last fall with possessing a small amount of marijuana...Evans and teammate Abe Koroma were entered Monday into a program for first-time offenders...Evans can have the charge expunged if he enters a first-time offender's program...Evans decided to forego his final year of eligibility and enter the 2009 Draft...he's considered to be a mid to late round prospect. AP
02/03...Quick Hits...The Kansas Chiefs have received permission from the Cardinals to interview OC Todd Haley regarding their head coaching vacancy...Jim Fassel has been named the head coach of the Las Vegas franchise for the newly formed United Football League.
The Oakland Raiders have named Tom Cable as their head coach for the 2009 season...the team has scheduled a press conference for 4:00 pm (est) on Wednesday to make the announcement.
Saskatchewan Roughriders general manager, Eric Tillman, has been charged with sexual assault....the charges stem from an alleged incident involving a 16-year-old girl last summer in Regina. TSN
Quick Hits...Arizona QB Kurt Warner reportedly told the team that he needs a "few weeks" before deciding whether to retire or play football for another season...The Oakland Raiders are reportedly expected to officially name Tom Cable as head coach sometime this week...The Patriots promoted Bill O'Brien from wide receivers coach to quarterbacks coach.
Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Todd Haley is expected to interview with the Kansas City Chiefs this week for their head coaching vacancy. Suntimes
San Diego Chargers defensive lineman Jamal Williams was arrested early Sunday on suspicion of drunken driving after he was caught speeding down a California Highway...Williams was booked and later was released on bail. SanDiego.com
Ohio State offensive tackle Alex Boone was arrested late Sunday night after being subdued with a Taser during an alleged drunken tirade....Boone was reportedly jumping on car hoods, yanking on a tow truck cable and trying to break a window when he was arrested... Boone is considered to be a later round prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft. AP
02/02..Highly regarded NFL assistant coach Ted Tollner has reportedly been offered a job on the Raiders staff...Tollner could wind up coaching the quarterbacks and serve as a mentor for QB JaMarcus Russell.
There is growing speculation that the Minnesota Vikings are considering making a serious bid for New England Patriots QB Matt Cassell in the upcoming free-agency period...however...Cassell could have a one-year, $14.65 million franchise tag slapped on him by the Patriots. Startribune.com
Punxsutawney Phil dressed in black and gold to celebrate the Pittsburgh Steelers' Super Bowl victory the night before saw his shadow this morning, predicting that this already long winter will last for six more weeks.
A New York Jets spokesman Sunday night denied a report by Sports Illustrated's Peter King that GM Mike Tannenbaum has told QB Brett Favre to take "months" if necessary to make a decision on whether he wants to retire or return to the team next season. NJ.com
Ben Roethlisberger threw a 6-yard TD pass to Santonio Holmes with 35 seconds left to give the Pittsburgh Steelers a record-setting sixth Super Bowl victory, 27-23 over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday night.
02/01...Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree will reportedly run at his Pro Day only...Crabtree is working out with Olympic champion sprinter Michael Johnson and receiving advice from a pair of former Cowboys Michael iIrvin and Deion Sanders as he prepares for the combine and his pro day. Newstribune
Florida Atlantic CB Frantz Joseph returned an interception 26 yards and a fumble 32 yards to help The Nation beat the Texas team 27-24 in the Texas vs The Nation All-Star Game on Saturday...Nation QB Chris Painter (Purdue) threw a 9-yard TD pass to San Jose State's Yonus Davis, Hartwick College QB Jason Boltus threw an 8 yard TD pass to Stanford's Anthony Kimble and Buffalo QB Drew Willy threw a 5 yard Td pass to East Carolina's Davon Drew for the Nation's other score...Tulsa QB David Johnson threw two touchdown passes for the Texas team while New Mexico State QB Chase Holbrook threw a TD pass to UNLV's Frank Summers for their other score.
Detroit Lions GM Martin Mayhew has reportedly called a candidate for the Lions personnel executive position to inform him the Lions will hire James "Shack" Harris to fill the position...the Lions have denied the report. Freep.com
