April Archives
04/09...Draft Risks...Pro Football Weekly polled five high-level league executives, asking them to rank five draft prospects with suspect track records, in which character is most likely to be a negative factor in the pros... and according to PFW, the five listed were: Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree, Illinois CB Vontae Davis, Florida WR Percy Harvin, USC ILB Rey Maualuga and Boston College DT B.J. Raji. Pro Football Weekly
Parrish being shopped...Pro Football Talk reports the Buffalo Bills are reportedly shopping WR/PR Roscoe Parrish as an "exploratory measure." Pro Football Talk Reports of Parrish being shopped by the Bills surfaced last month, so the possibility of him being dealt around the draft is a real possibility. -Al Fronczak
Connor Barwin visits...University of Cincinnati DE/TE Connor Barwin told Sirius NFL Radios hosts Tim Ryan and Jim Miller that he had a private visit with the Cincinnati Bengals this week, and has private visits set up with the Jacksonville Jaguars and the St. Louis Rams for next week....Barwin also said that the New England Patriots have really shown an interest in him...Barwin has already had an on-campus workout for the Pats, and has also had a private visit with the team in New England.
Browns' Edwards will be moved?...Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, told Paul Burmeister of the NFL Network, that she believes WR Brayon Edwards will be traded, because Edwards has only one year left on his contract, and is looking for a big pay-day upwards of $10 million per year from the Browns.
Bills sign McKinney...The Buffalo Bills have signed former Browns' OG/OC Seth McKinney. Buffalo News
Lions have not made final decision on Stafford...Tom Kowalski of MLive reports, according to a league source, the Lions have not made a final decision on drafting Georgia QB Matthew Stafford...Kowalski said according to the source, there have only been preliminary contract discussions with several draft prospects and that no signing is imminent. MLive.com
The NFL will announce the 2009 NFL schedule on Tuesday April 14, at 7:00 pm est, on the NFL Network.
Al Fronczak updated his mock draft today and it's now up and posted on our 2009 NFL Draft page.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a private visit scheduled with QB Byron Leftwich for today. Post-Gazette
Draft Day Shocker...My top sleeper prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft is a prospect that wasn't invited to the NFL Combine in February, but he's on the radar screen of numerous NFL teams. Houston offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer was born in Duesseldorf, Germany, and didn't start playing football until he was 14 years old, but due to his size, athletic ability and upside, Vollmer will be the first super-surprise pick of the NFL Draft.
Vollmer has the size (6-7.5, 312) and the athletic ability (had the best vertical jump - 36.5 inches, the best short shuttle - 4.50, and 3 cone - 7.51 times, of any of the top OT prospects in the draft, and did 32 reps at 225 on the bench at his pro day) that NFL line coaches covet, and love to work with. Don't be surprised when Vollmer comes off the board much earlier than anyone expects, because you heard it here first. -Al Fronczak
Pro Football Talk is reporting the agent for Chris 'Beanie" Wells texted PFT in a message saying that the reason Wells missed his visit with the Broncos was that his flight to Denver was delayed due to mechanical issues, and that the Broncos were aware of the flight delay. Pro Football Talk
The Browns have an on-campus workout scheduled with Ohio State CB Malcolm Jenkins. Cabot/Cleveland.com
Browns' visits...Mary Kay Cabot reports the Cleveland Browns will host several of the top prospects in the draft next week...Baylor OT Jason Smith, Texas DE/OLB Brian Orakpo, Georgia HB Knowshon Moreno, Missouri WR Jeremy Maclin, and USC LB Rey Maualuga are all scheduled for a private visit. Cleveland.com
Oklahoma tackle Phil Loadholt has a private visit scheduled with the Vikings today. TwinCities.com
Patriots host Tar Heels...Mike Reiss reports the New England Patriots hosted North Carolina WR's Brooks Foster (Tuesday) and Brandon Tate (Wednesday) for private visits with the team. Boston.com
Browns/Orakpo...Carlos Holmes reports the Browns held a private workout with Texas DE/OLB Brian Orakpo on March 18, and have Orakpo scheduled for a private visit in Cleveland on April 14. Dayton Daily News
Garrard sheds weight...Jacksonvill Jaguars QB David Garrard lost nearly 20 pounds during thr offseason by cutting back his caloric intake from approximately 3,000 calories to 1,200. Jacksonville.com
Pro Football Talk is reporting Ohio State RB Chris "Beanie" Wells reportedly missed his flight and wasn't able to make his personal visit scheduled with the Broncos for Wednesday. Pro Football Talk
Lynch's suspension, Owens reports...Buffalo Bills' HB Marshawn Lynch will reportedly be suspended for the first three games of the 2009 NFL season for violating the league's conduct policy....Terrell Owens reported for the Bills voluntary offseason workouts...Free agent RB Cecil Sapp will visit the Bills next week.
04/08...Missouri DT Evander "Ziggy" Hood told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan that he's visited
with the Lions and Patriots, and has upcoming visits scheduled with the Rams, Vikings, and Chargers.
Hall charged with DUI...Cincinnati Bengals CB Leon Hall was charged with DUI on Sunday...Hall's blood-alcohol level was reportedly .149, nearly twice the legal limit, when stopped by the Ohio State Patrol. WLWT
Quick Hits... The Detroit Lions signed former Tampa Bay Bucs' OG Matt Lentz...The Indianapolis Colts
re-signed OLB Tyjuan Hagler.
USC DT Fili Moala told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan that he has a private visit set up
with the San Diego Chargers on Thursday, and has already visited with the Steelers, Bills, and Browns.
Edwards to Giants rumor disputed...Mike Garafalo of The Star-Ledger disputes the rumor that Braylon Edwards was about to be traded to the New York Giants. NJ.com
Eagles-Bills discussions heating up...It looks like the Jason Peters to Philly rumors are heating up once again with ESPN's Michael Smith reporting the Eagles and Bills are in serious trade discussions involving Peters. I posted the Peters to Philly rumor back in February when I was told that the Eagles had a serious interest in Peters, and I firmly believe this deal will get done sometime before the draft, so that the Bills have time to form a plan on how they will approach the draft with a hole to fill at left tackle. The Bills asking price for Peters (who is viewed around the league as an elite tackle) should at least start with the Eagles first round pick No.21 and third round pick No.85, and the possibility of both teams switching picks as well, with the Bills sending the Eagles their third round pick No.75, for the Eagles second round pick No. 53, which would equal to about 1090 points on the trade chart, or pick No. 14 in the draft. The compensation for Peters will be heavy, but the Eagles have the ammunition in picks, and the need for a left tackle to complete the deal. -Al Fronczak
Smith moving up the boards...With the NFL Draft just a little over two weeks away, Utah CB/S Sean Smith is flying up draft boards and could easily slip into the first round of the draft. Smith has the size (6-3.4, 214) that NFL teams love in a defensive back, and his workout numbers in his forty and the shuttles were better than several of the top CB prospects available. -Al Fronczak
Jets/Giants have WR visits...Rutgers WR Kenny Britt, and Florida WR Percy Harvin, have upcoming visits scheduled with both the New York Jets and the New York Giants. 1050amESPN
Jets interested in Austin?...Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News reports the New York Jets are scheduled to meet with Cowboys' restricted free-agent WR Miles Austin...the Cowboys extended Austin a $1.545 million tender offer that would require the Jets to give up their second-round draft pick as compensation if the Cowboys didn't match their offer...the restricted free-agent signing period ends on April 17. DallasNews
Elway quits football...John Elway's son, Jack Elway, left the Arizona State training program in the middle of spring practice and is hanging up his cleats for good. Denver Post
The Kansas City Chiefs signed WR Rodney Wright and long snapper Tanner Purdum...Wright was drafted by Buffalo in 2002 and spent parts of two seasons on the Bills’ practice squad. KansasCity.com
Browns smitten with Sanchez...Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that he's been hearing that the Browns are smitten with USC QB Mark Sanchez, and it would be a surprise to some, but not to others if the Browns took Sanchez with the fifth overall pick of the draft. Cleveland Plain Dealer
The Patriots had a private visit with North Carolina WR Brooks Foster on Tuesday. Reiss/Boston.com
Eagles interested in Ocho Cinco?...On Tuesday, Michael Smith of ESPN's NFL Live reported that the Philadelphia Eagles were interested in in acquiring Chad Ocho Cinco from the Cincinnati Bengals.
Maclin to visit Lions...John Niyo of the Detroit News reports Missouri Wr Jeremy Maclin will visit the Detroit Lions...Maclin also has visits scheduled with the Rams, Browns, and Jets. Detroit News
Bears workout receivers...Brad Biggs of the Sun Times reports WR's coach Darryl Drake put Oklahoma WR Juaquin Iglesias through a private workout Tuesday and Drake will do the same with Georgia WR Mohamed Massaquoi today...They're two of the players the Bears are targeting with its second round pick at No. 49...the Bears are also believed to be interested in Ohio State WR Brian Robiskie and Florida WR Louis Murphy. SunTimes
Missouri WR Jeremy Maclin has a personal visit scheduled with the Oakland Raiders on Thursday.
04/07...Quick Hits...The Buffalo Bills have agreed to terms with DT Marcus Stroud on a two-year contract extension...The Carolina Panthers have re-signed WR Jason Carter...Rumors are spreading that the Miami Dolphins are reportedly targeting Southern California LB Rey Maualuga...The Seattle Seahawks signed FB David Kirtman...The Houston Texans signed free agent OT Rashad Butler to a one-year contract...The Cincinnati Bengals have signed free agent DT Tank Johnson.
Freeman, Sanchez to visit 49ers...USC QB Mark Sanchez has a private visit scheduled with the San Francisco 49ers for Wednesday, while Kansas State QB Josh Freeman is also scheduled to visit with the 49ers sometime between now and the draft. Matt Barrows/Sac Bee
On April 20, the League office will send NFL teams the "official list" of players that tested positive at the NFL Combine in February. -Al Fronczak
WR Reggie Williams remained free on bond after a hearing on charges that he was in possession of a half-gram of cocaine on Sunday...Williams is scheduled to appear in court again on the case May 12. Houston Chronicle
Rams willing to deal No. 2 pick...St. Louis Rams GM Billy Devaney said his team is willing to listen to any trade proposals from clubs interested in moving up to the Rams' No. 2 overall spot. StlToday
Al Fronczak has updated his first round mock with numerous changes throughout the round. 2009 Draft Page
Lions are allowed to pass on No. 1 pick...Tom Kowalski of MLive reports the Detroit Lions are allowed to pass on the No. 1 pick is they choose... according to the league, there are no rules prohibiting the Lions from skipping the pick and waiting until they're good and ready to make that selection. MLive
Hasselbeck against drafting a QB at No.4...Eric Williams of the News Tribune reports Seattle Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck was asked what he thought of Seattle possibly selecting Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford with the team’s No. 4 pick overall, should he fall that far, and had this to say...“I’m a little biased here, right?” Hasselbeck said. “We could draft him, but it would kind of stink for him because he would have to sit on the bench for awhile.” The News Tribune
Unhappy Robinson on the block?...Lance Zierlien of the Houston Chronicle reports there's a better chance of Dunta Robinson playing for a team other than the Texans by 2010... if Robinson is dead set on leaving the Texans as soon as he can, then GM Rick Smith should be shopping him before and during the draft...the Texans could get a 2nd rounder in return for Robinson. Houston Chronicle
Hasselbeck set to return...Matt Hasselbeck will practice with the Seahawks for the first time since early December today, when the team begins a voluntary minicamp...A team spokesman confirmed Monday that the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback will take part in a pre-draft camp for veterans. Seattlepi.com
Bears looking to Saban for help in draft?...Brad Biggs of the Sun Times reports the Bears first pick in the draft at pick No. 49 could be used on defense...General manager Jerry Angelo is in the market for a free safety, and the team is said to like Alabama's Rashad Johnson, who comes with a sterling recommendation from Jerry Angelo's good friend Nick Saban...Johnson had 30 pass breakups and interceptions over the last two seasons. That is the most for a safety in the draft since Sean Taylor and Ed Reed came out of Miami. Sun Times
Bengals smokescreen...Chick Ludwig of the Dayton Daily News reports the Cincinnati Bengals interest in WR's Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin at picks No. 6 is a smokescreen.... the Bengals know that Oakland and Jacksonville are desperate for a WR at Nos. 7 and 8, that’s why they’re keeping both teams off balance by their interest in both players...the Bengals could trade with the Raiders or Jags, move down a slot or two, get the left tackle they want, plus an extra draft pick or two. DaytonDaily
Jones-Drew a no-show...The Jacksonville Jaguars began their offseason conditioning program on Monday, but running back Maurice Jones-Drew didn't attend the opening session, which wasn't mandatory...While it's unclear why Jones-Drew didn't participate, his absence appears to clash with coach Jack Del Rio's new stance on offseason conditioning. "Everybody who wants to be a Jaguar will be in Jacksonville working out with the team," Del Rio said in a Dec. 30 news conference. Jacksonville.com
Raji's agent denies report...Pro Football Talk reports the agent for Boston College DT B.J. Raji said his client didn't test positive for any banned substance at the NFL Scouting Combine in February. Pro Football Talk
04/06...Quick Hits...The Baltimore Ravens re-signed CB Samari Rolle to a four-year contract....The Minnesota Vikings signed free agent DT Fred Evans to a one-year contract...The Cowboys signed free agent DE Stephen Bowen to a one-year contract...The Packers re-signed TE Tory Humphrey and waived DE Kenneth Pettway...The Raiders signed former Vikings OG/OT Marcus Johnson...The Denver Broncos waived QB Darrell Hackney.
Fulton on the mend...Illinois OT Xavier Fulton told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan the reason he didn't participate in the drills at the Illiois Pro Day was because that he had shoulder surgury 3 days after the NFL Combine...Fulton said that he hurt the shoulder in a game against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the 2008 season, but participated in the Senoir Bowl practices, and played in the game despite the injury.
Bucs sign Winslow...Kellen Winslow has signed a six-year contract extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers...Winslow's $36.1 million contract includes $20.1 million in guaranteed money...an NFL record for a tight end...as well as an additional $6 million that can be earned through incentives. Fox Sports
Rams-Falcons trade...The Atlanta Falcons traded WR Laurent Robinson to the St. Louis Rams...As part of the trade, the Falcons and the Rams swapped positions in the fifth and sixth rounds of the draft. AJC
Raiders sign Garcia...The Oakland Raiders have confirmed the signing of free agent quarterback Jeff Garcia...the deal is believed to be a one-year contract. InsideBayarea.com
Burbank rules in favor of Chiefs...Special Master Stephen Burbank ruled today that if the Kansas City Chiefs cut Larry Johnson, they do not have to pay him a $3.5 million guaranteed salary next season because he breached his contract after being suspended last season. Kansas City.com
Williams arrested...Former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Reggie Williams was arrested Sunday night on a felony drug charge in Houston, FOXSports.com has learned...Williams was charged with possession of a controlled substance that police believe is cocaine following an altercation at a Houston nightclub. Fox Sports
Burress wins grievance...Plaxico Burress, cut by the Giants last week, has won his grievance against the club for withholding his bonus money, a source has told FOXSports.com's Alex Marvez...The union contested the New York Giants' decision to withhold a $1 million bonus due Burress after the receiver accidentally shot himself in the thigh in a Manhattan nightclub in November. The money was part of a $4.25 million bonus Burress was to receive as part of a contract extension he agreed to with the Giants in August. Fox Sports
Lions sign two...The Detroit Lions announced they re-signed offensive tackle George Foster and signed center Dylan Gandy to one-year deals. Freep
Fox re-signs with Steelers...The Pittsburgh Steelers have reached a two-year, $1.8 million contract agreement with linebacker Keyaron Fox. ESPN
Could Vick wind up in Dallas?...The recent remaks made by Cowboys'owner Jerry Jones regarding his desire to find a quarterback that can run the wildcat offense has me wondering if Jones is considering signing former Falcons' quarterback Michael Vick. Vick would be an ideal fit for the wildcat offense, if he hasn't lost a step during his time in prison. With the Cowboys moving into their new stadium this year, Jones would love to make a splash, and needs to sell boxes, so signing Vick could be the answer, despite the negative publicity the move could make. The Cowboys could consider taking West Virginia QB Pat White with their first pick in the draft (#51 overall), but the team has other needs, and they own just two picks in the top 116 picks in the draft.
It will be interesting to see if Jerry Jones bold moves in the past, surface once again. -Al Fronczak
Moreno visiting Bengals...Georgia HB Knowshon Moreno will be in Cincinnati today for a private visit with the Bengals. Dayton Daily
Tainted prospects removed from Rams draft board...After getting stung in the past by taking prospects in the draft that had character issues, the St. Louis Rams have decided to clean up their act. According to Rams General manager Billy Devaney, any prospect that has gotten in trouble with the law, or has tested positive for a banned substance in the past, will be removed from the Rams final draft board. -Al Fronczak
Garcia and Raiders close...Phil Barber of the press Democrat reports the odds look good of quarterback Jeff Garcia signing with the Raiders perhaps as soon as today. Press Democrat
John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports the Houston Texans will begin their non-mandatory offseason conditioning program today without CB Dunta Robinson and MLB DeMeco Ryans, who are sitting out the offseason program because they’re unhappy with their contracts. Chron.com
Chiefs could move down in draft...Pro Football Weekly reports based on the caliber of draftees the Chiefs have hosted recently, there is a real possibility that the team is considering trading out of the third overall slot and picking up additional picks in the late-first or early-second round. Kansas City doesn’t currently own a second-round selection, and during his time with the Patriots, GM Scott Pioli showed a penchant for making Draft Day trades to collect more draft choices. PFW
Bills prime candidate to trade down...Pro Football Weekly reports early word out of Orchard Park is that the Bills are a prime candidate to trade down from the No. 11 spot of the first round, particularly in the event a QB-hungry team needs to jump up to grab Matt Stafford, Mark Sanchez or Josh Freeman. With pressing needs at numerous positions including tight end, defensive end and outside linebacker, and with most of the premier talents likely gone, the Bills’ most prudent move could very well be stockpiling picks. PFW
Pro Football Weekly reports that if the price is right, the Seahawks may be interested in bringing back CB Ken Lucas, who was released by the Panthers...Lucas was originally drafted by Seattle in 2001. PFW
Brady's agent denies report...Don Yee, Tom Brady's agent denied a claim that two photographers were shot at after Brady's wedding ceremony..."I have no knowledge of the events being described," Don Yee, Brady's agent, told The Associated Press in an e-mail on Sunday night. "Additionally, security personnel have reported they do not have any knowledge of such an event. Given this, I have no other comment." SI.com
04/05...Shots fired at Brady's Wedding...Two freelance photographers who snapped pictures of Tom Brady and Gisele Bundchen's weekend wedding in Costa Rica say they were shot at by the supermodel's security personnel INF...the two men "narrowly escaped death" when bullets shattered the back windshield of the duo's Suzuki jeep then hit the vehicle's front window. Boston.com
Cushing and Matthews are clean...Jason Cole of Yahoo Sports reports the doctor who administers the NFL policy on performance-enhancing drugs told highly regarded USC linebackers Brian Cushing and Clay Matthews Jr. on Friday that neither tested positive for banned substances, including steroids, according to sources close to both players...The sources said Cushing and Matthews both went straight to Dr. John Lombardo to find out about the reports, and the two players were told by Lombardo, who administers the league’s drug policy, that they had nothing to worry about. Yahoo
FBI agents arrested former Dallas Cowboy Leonardo Carson, 31, in Irving, Texas early Thursday on drug-related charges...Carson was arrested without incident at his home...The charges against Carson, include conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine and marijuana. Dallas News
Smith not a top ten pick?...Mike Reiss of Boston.com reports after talking to NFL scouts and personnel executives leading up to the draft, Baylor left tackle Jason Smith is in the discussion for the top pick is surprising to one scouting director, who doesn't rate him as a top-10 talent. Boston.com
Taylor draws interest...Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald reports not long after Jason Taylor became a free agent, nearly a dozen teams called to express interest in him...The Bills, Packers, and Jets called, and Tampa Bay and New Orleans are also reportedly interested in his services. Miami Herald
Vrabels comments led to release...Mike Reiss of Boston.com reports there has been speculation that Mike Vrabel's critical comments about NFL owners' cries of financial difficulty in the Boston Herald paved the way for his unexpected exit...Vrabel, who was the Patriots' union rep and is currently a member of the NFL Players Association's executive committee, said in the Nov. 9 piece that projects like Patriot Place, the outdoor retail and entertainment venue adjacent to Gillette Stadium that was constructed by Patriots owner Robert Kraft, are built on the backs of the players. But that players don't get any of the revenue from them. Boston.com
Rumors: Ocho-Cinco a Raider?..Joe Reedy of Cincinnati.com reports a blogger on BleacherReport.com reported the Raiders and Bengals are hammering out a trade to send Ocho Cinco to Oakland in exchange for running back Michael Bush and a second-round draft pick...According to the blogger, "I got a quick minute to ask Raiders coach Tom Cable about this trade, and he responded by saying this move makes them more flexible come draft day by taking care of a huge hole on offense." Cincinnati.com
John Niyo of the Detroit News reports Georgia QB Matthew Stafford is the best option for the Lions first overall pick...Jason Smith is not a Jake Long/Orlando Pace type of prospect and while I love Aaron Curry, LB's don't go number one overall, especially one who will have to play out of position at MLB. Detroit News
Bears, Vikings interested in Iglesias...The Chicago Bears will put Oklahoma wide receiver Juaquin Iglesias through a private workout on Tuesday...Iglesias has been receiving considerable interest from the division rival Minnesota Vikings...Coach Brad Childress and personnel boss Rick Spielman attended his pro day in Norman, Okla...Iglesias will have a pre-draft visit to Minnesota on Wednesday. Biggs/Sun Times
Texas Christian running back Aaron Brown and West Virginia cornerback Ellis Lankster had pre-draft visits with the Chicago Bears recently. Biggs/Sun Times
Pro Football Talk is reporting former Buccaneer QB Jeff Garcia has drawn the interest of the Oakland Raiders, and could be added to the team in the not-too-distant future. Pro Football Talk
Ex-Bear, Anderson dies of heart attack...Former Chicago Bears defensive lineman Ken Anderson has died of a heart attack at age 33...Anderson lettered for the Arkansas Razorbacks from 1994-97 and played for the Chicago Bears in 1999. SI.com
04/04...The father-in-law of Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Kellen Winslow was found safe at a U.S.-Mexico border crossing on Saturday, three days after he vanished...Anaheim police were notified at about 9 a.m. Saturday that Enrique Guzman, who has Alzheimer's disease, was found at the Calexico border crossing. ESPN
Boller signs with Rams...Former Ravens QB Kyle Boller, has agreed to terms with the St. Louis Rams.
Texas defensive tackle Roy Miller told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Howard Balzer and Alex Marvez that he has upcoming private vists scheduled with the Tennessee Titans, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Seattle Seahawks.
Maryland guard Jamie Thomas told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Howard Balzer and Alex Marvez that he performed an on-campus workout for the Washington Redskins yesterday, will workout for the New York Giants on Monday, and has already performed an on-campus workout for the New York Jets.
The Washington Redskins have confirmed a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette report that Steelers backup quarterback Byron Leftwich visited Redskins Park on Friday. Washington Post
Texans land two Linebackers...The Houston Texans have agreed to terms with OLB Cato June and ILB Buster Davis. Houston Chronicle
Cutler reunion might pad Bennett's stats with Bears..The Jay Cutler to Chicago trade reunites WR Earl Bennett with the quarterback he had so much success with as a freshman at Vanderbilt in 2005, when he caught 79 passes for 876 yards and nine touchdowns...Cutler's last pass at Vanderbilt was a touchdown strike to Bennett in Knoxville as the Commodores beat Tennessee. Wyatt/Tennessean
The Chicago Bears have cancelled their private workout with Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey. -Al Fronczak
Texans invite 15 locals for visit...John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports the Texans have invited 15 Houston-area players to their facility to participate in drills that prepare them for the April 25-26 NFL draft...QB Chase Clement, TE James Casey and WR Jarett Dillard from Rice; TE Mark Hafner and DE Phillip Hunt from Houston; QB Bobby Reid from Texas Southern; DE Melvin Bennett from Texas A&M and WR Johnny Knox of Abilene Christian are among the players who’ll be there. Houston Chronicle
16 Prospects to visit with Rams...Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post Dispatch confirmed Friday that 16 players will be visiting Rams Park sometime during the April 14-16 period the Rams have set aside to meet with up to 30 draft prospects...The list: QBs: Thomas Brandstater (Fresno State), Josh Freeman (Kansas State), Mark Sanchez (Southern Cal); WR: Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech), Darius Heyward-Bey (Maryland), Jeremy Maclin (Missouri), Hakeem Nicks (North Carolina) OT: Eugene Monroe (Virginia), Jason Smith (Baylor); DE/DT: Evander Hood (Missouri), Tyson Jackson (LSU); DEOLB: Connor Barwin (Cincinnati), Lawrence Sidbury (Richmond);
LB: Aaron Curry (Wake Forest), Rey Maualuga (Southern Cal); CB Mike Mickens (Cincinnati). Stltoday
Taylor could be on his way to Patriots... Miami Dolphins LB Joey Porter told Omar Kelly of the Sun-Sentinel on Friday that he's spoken to Jason Taylor and was told that Taylor would love to return to the Dolphins, but then hinted that if they don't, Taylor was headed to New England. Reiss/Boston.com
Brad Biggs of the Sun Times reports Western Illinois LB Jason Williams is one of the hottest risers with just three weeks to go before the draft getting in 10 pre-draft visits...That's more than any other player we've heard of to this point...Williams will travel or has already traveled to meet with Cleveland, Dallas, Green Bay, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Minnesota, New England, Seattle, Tampa Bay and Tennessee. Sun Times
Orton won't wear no.18 for Broncos...Mike Klis of the Denver Post reports the No. 18 jersey that Kyle Orton wore in Chicago has long been retired in honor of the Broncos' first quarterback, Frank Tripucka...Orton was given a No. 8 jersey. Denver Post
Winslow's father-in-law missing...Tampa Bay Buccaneers TE Kellen Winslow's father-in-law has gone missing after visiting a friend at a gas station, police said Friday...Enrique Guzman, 67, suffers from Alzheimer's and was last seen Wednesday morning in his blue Chevy Camaro, police and Winslow said. SI.com
Marinovich back in jail...Former Los Angeles Raiders QB Todd Marinovich is back in jail...Authorities say the 39-year-old Marinovich was arrested Friday after missing a drug rehabilitation progress review in a Newport Beach court earlier this week...He was being held at the Orange County Jail without bail. SI.com
Pro Football Talk reports the office of CAA agent Tom Condon released a statement to PFT defuting the recent report from NFLDraftBible.com that USC linebacker Brian Cushing tested positive for steroids at the Scouting Combine in February. Pro Football Talk
04/03...Burress wanted out of New York...Mike Garofolo of the Star-ledger reports former New York Giants WR Plaxico Burress reportedly turned down a chance to earn a total of $29.5 million in salary and bonuses from the remaining four years left on his contract with the Giants...the fact that he turned down that deal shows you how much he really didn't want to be a Giant anymore. NJ.com
NFL.com reports a Web site that focuses on the NFL draft recently reported that some draft-eligible players had tested positive for drugs. However, an NFL spokesman refuted that report Friday, saying “neither the 32 clubs nor the league office know the results of drug or steroid tests taken at the 2009 Combine.” NFL.com
Buffalo Bills free safety George Wilson has signed his one-year $1.01 million tender offer.
Oklahoma State TE Brandon Pettigrew held an on-campus private workout for four NFL teams today...Reps from the Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, and New York Jets were in attendance. -Al Fronczak
Todd France, the agent for Illinois cornerback Vontae Davis has issued a denial of an NFL Draft Bible report that claimed that Davis tested positive for marijuana at the NFL Scouting Combine. Pro Football Talk
The Tennessee Titans agreed to terms on a one-year deal with QB Patrick Ramsey. Tennessean
Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain Dealer believes the possibility of a Brady Quinn trade to Denver still exists, despite the fact that the Broncos acquired Kyle Orton in the Jay Cutler trade. Cleveland Plain Dealer
Dolphins bring Henne along to workout Robiskie...Ohio State WR Brian Robiskie told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan that the Miami Dolphins brought QB Chad Henne along to throw to him during the Dolphins on-campus workout with him...Robiskie also performed on-campus workouts for the Broncos and Bears
Robiskie to visit Cowboys...Ohio State WR Brian Robiskie told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan that he has a private visit scheduled with the Dallas Cowboys on April 15.
Orakpo in Denver...Texas DE Brian Orakpo was in Denver today for a private visit with the Broncos. -Al Fronczak
Giants release Burress...The New York Giants announced today that they have released veteran wide receiver Plaxico Burress, who played for the team the previous four seasons. Eisen/Giants.com
Agent denies positive drug test...Pro Football Talk is reporting the agent that represents USC LB Clay Matthews has issued a denial that his client tested positive for steroids at the NFL Scouting Combine...In an e-mail sent to Rick Serritella at NFL Draft Bible from Athletes First vice president and general counsel Mark Humenik stated that neither Matthews or his agents have been informed of any failed drug test...Plus, he added that a lawyer for the league office told him that the NFL hasn’t received notification that any players have tested positive for steroids at the combine. Pro Football Talk
Wrightster released...The Jacksonville Jaguars today released veteran tight end George Wrighster. Wrighster, spent six seasons with the Jaguars after being drafted out of Oregon in 2003. Jaguars.com
Harrison targets June 1...Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald reports Rodney Harrison said he has experienced “significant gains” recently with respect to the torn quadriceps muscle that prematurely ended his 2008 NFL season...But while he is improving, he indicated earlier this week during a phone conversation he’s still undecided about his future, but will have a decision made by June 1. Boston Herald
Ohio State linebacker James Laurianitis told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Soloman Wilcots and Jim Miller that he had a visit with the Houston Texans this morning and will be visiting the New Orleans Saints...Lauriniatis has also visited the Kansas City Chiefs and the Atlanta Falcons...Laurianitis also said that he spoke with Steelers defensive coordinator Dick Lebeau by phone, and LeBeau told him that he'd like to have him on his team.
Bills pick, Hot Spot for Draft Day trade...Nolan Nawrocki of Pro Football Weekly reports despite the acquisition of Kyle Orton, the Denver Broncos still could be active players in the QB market and stand to seriously entertain a quarterback with the No. 12 overall pick...As a result, the Buffalo Bills’ No. 11 overall pick suddenly becomes a hot spot and is likely to receive a lot of interest on Draft Day, the same way the St. Louis Rams’ 11th pick did three years ago when the Broncos sought to move up to secure Cutler. Pro Football Weekly
Al Fronczak's latest mock draft after the Cutler trade is now up and posted on our 2009 Draft Page.
The Ravens have added two coaches to John Harbaugh's staff, promoting Roy Anderson to defensive assistant and hiring Matt Weiss as head coaching assistant, the team announced Thursday. Baltimore Sun
Three prospects visit Chiefs...The Kansas City Chiefs entertained three highly regarded defensive prospects Thursday at their Truman Sports Complex headquarters...defensive end Brian Orakpo of Texas and linebackers Connor Barwin of Cincinnati and James Laurinaitis of Ohio State. Kansas City.com
Quinn has $11 Million reasons to start...There's alot more at stake for Brady Quinn in the Browns quarterback competition than just the starting job... If Quinn plays at least 70 percent of the snaps next season, he'll earn $11 million in contract escalators. Cleveland.com
Mangini denies Quinn rumor...Browns head coach Eric Mangini denied Thursday night that the Browns were involved in three-way trade talks that would've sent quarterback Brady Quinn to Denver. Cleveland.com
Browns receiver Donte Stallworth was already in the NFL's substance abuse program before being charged with DUI manslaughter according to a report, meaning he'll most likely face stiffer sanctions from the NFL if convicted...In March of 2007, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Stallworth was a participant in the league's substance abuse program and faced a suspension if he violated the conditions again. Cleveland.com
Tank visits Bengals...Former Cowboys' DT Tank Johnson was in Cincinnati this week visiting the Bengals.
Notre Dame cornerback Terrail Lambert, who was not invited to the NFL combine, is scheduled to privately work out for the New England Patriots next Tuesday in South Bend, Indiana. Reiss/Boston.com
Broncos never returned Jets call...Gary Myers of the NY Daily News reports sources said the New York Jets never even had the opportunity to consider topping the Bears offer...The Jets let the Broncos know they wanted Cutler before he was on the market and called Denver after Broncos owner Pat Bowlen opened the auction earlier this week...The source said the Broncos never called back GM Mike Tannenbaum...The Jets got absolutely nowhere...They got the same treatment Cutler gave the Broncos: No return phone calls. NY Daily
04.02...McFadden gets sued...A bouncer who was injured on the job during a bar brawl that happened 15 months ago has sued Raiders' HB Darren McFadden, two of his brothers, and the owner of the Little Rock piano bar after getting injured on the job...The lawsuit is seeking undisclosed punitive and compensatory damages from all parties involved. SFGate
Jets and Redskins to move up for QB?... Don't be surprised if the Washington Redskins and New York Jets (both losers in the Jay Cutler sweepstakes) make an attempt to move up on draft day, or in a pre-draft move, to position themselves for one of the Top 3 QB's available in the draft. Both teams showed their hand, so to speak, in their attempt to land Broncos' QB Jay Cutler, to stabilize their quarterback situation. -Al Fronczak
Browns offered Quinn to Denver in failed bid for Cutler...Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports the Cleveland Browns were involved in three-way trade talks that would've sent quarterback Brady Quinn to Denver, the Washington Examiner reported...The deal involved the Broncos, Redskins and Browns, and the source said it was close to happening at one point during the day...Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler, who ended up being traded to Chicago, told a CBS affiliate in Denver that he was headed to Washington...But the source said the deal involving the Browns unraveled, prompting Chicago to get back in the game and outbid the other players...The source said Denver's preferences for a quarterback were Quinn and then Chicago's Kyle Orton, who was part of the trade. Cleveland.com
Bears are winners in Cutler sweepstakes...The Chicago Bears have finally found a franchise quarterback, while the Denver Broncos are back where they started, after the retirement of John Elway. The Bears won the Jay Cutler sweepstakes, because they offered the Broncos the best package of picks, a veteran quarterback, and they reside in the National Football Conference. The Broncos didn't want to deal Cutler to an AFC team, and the Jets and Browns were the only in-conference teams that showed a genuine interest in Cutler, but didn't have enough ammunition, or didn't offer enough to land the talented signal-caller. In my opinion, the Bears will come out of this smelling like roses, while the Broncos will feel like the Falcons did after Jerry Glanville dealt Brett Favre, because he couldn't see eye to eye with his young quarterback. - Al Fronczak
Bears Land Cutler...The Chicago Bears acquired QB Jay Cutler, from Denver, for the Bears' first and third round picks in 2009, their first round pick in 2010, and QB Kyle Orton...The Bears receive the Broncos' fifth-round draft pick this year. Sun Times
The Chicago Bears have agreed to terms with free agent OT Orlando Pace on a three-year contract.
Boston College defensive tackle B.J. Raji reportedly tested positive for a banned substance at the NFL Combine in February... Raji reportedly tested positive for marijuana during his time at Boston College. SI.com
Quick Hits...Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin said he'd love to play for the Miami Dolphins while being interviewed on ESPN Radio 760 in Palm Beach, Florida...The Dallas Cowboys re-signed free agent guard Cory Procter to a one-year contract...The Cardinals announced that former Rams and Steelers fullback Dan Kreider has agreed to terms...Baltimore Ravens safety Dawan Landry signed his one-year tender offer.
USC Linebacker Rey Maulaluga told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan today that the San Francisco 49ers and Washington Redskins have shown the most interest in him up to this point, and the San Diego Chargers are bringing him in for a private visit.
Broncos don't want Campbell...Jason La Canfora of The Washington Post reports if the Redskins make a trade with Denver for Jay Cutler for draft picks only, and Denver does not want Jason Campbell (and the delay in the trade has led several executives to assume that is the case), then the trade value for quarterback Jason Campbell will drop more...The Skins were seeking a second-rounder for Campbell, but two executives said that if the Skins are stuck with Cutler and Campbell, they may have to settle for a third or worse.
Kristina Davis of the Union Tribune reports The City Attorney's Office is deciding whether to file misdemeanor drunken-driving charges against Chargers defensive lineman Jamal Williams now that the results of his blood-alcohol test have come in...Williams, who was arrested Feb. 1, had a blood-alcohol level of 0.07 percent, which is just under the state legal limit of 0.08...However, the blood sample was drawn well after the arrest, meaning Williams could still have been legally drunk at the time of the arrest. SignonSandiego
Broncos locker room divided...Lindsay H. Jones of the Denver Post reports not even three months into his job as the Broncos new coach, Josh McDaniels must reassure a somewhat divided locker room and win over a disgruntled fan base after he and the rest of the Broncos' brass have decided to trade QB Jay Cutler...Broncos' players are scheduled to hold a players-only meeting today in which the Cutler saga will be addressed. DenPost
The Oakland Raiders re-signed OLB Sam Williams, and signed former Redskins DT Ryan Boschetti.
Titans claim Redskins tampered...Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean reports the Tennessee Titans have asked the NFL to look into tampering charges against the Washington Redskins in the signing of defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, sources familiar with the situation said...The Titans recently turned in what they considered to be evidence that the Redskins had contact with Haynesworth before he became a free agent in February. The league indicated to the Titans that it planned to look into the matter. Tennessean
Fresno State tight end McKenna “Bear” Pascoe, is scheduled to arrive in town today to meet with New England Patriots officials for a private visit at Gillette Stadium, according to an NFL source. Reiss/Boston.com
Lions eyeing help to land Cutler...John Niyo of the Detroit News reports the Lions are hoping to land Pro Bowl quarterback Jay Cutler, but they may have to do it with the help of another team...Denver's initial asking price is believed to be a first-round pick in this month's draft and another first-round pick in 2010, with the Broncos also seeking a starting-caliber quarterback in any deal...And while the Lions have the draft picks, they're lacking in the other department...there's speculation that Cleveland, with Brady Quinn to offer, could help facilitate a three-way deal with the Broncos. Detroit News
Cushing to play Inside Linebacker?...USC head coach Pete Carroll told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan yesterday that he believes inside linebacker, in either a 4-3 or a 3-4 scheme, could be the best pro position for linebacker Brian Cushing, because Cushing is a natural sideline to sideline tackler, and playing him inside at the next level would be the best position to take advantage of his skills...Carroll also said that Cushing weighed 7 to 8 pounds more than what he weighed at the combine.
Matthews could be first USC backer off board...Clay Matthews workout at the USC Pro Day yesterday may have pushed him ahead of his highly touted teammate Brian Cushing as the first USC linebacker to come off the board on draft day...Matthews looked better than Brian Cushing and Rey Maulaluga in the pass drills, where the former safety displayed soft hands and superior athleticism, and ran a faster forty time 4.55, to Cushing's 4.70... Cushing also looked a bit stiff in the hips in his drops in the linebacker drills. -Al Fronczak
Sanchez's arm strength still a questionmark?...Scott Wolf of the LA Daily News reports USC QB Mark Sanchez displayed accuracy on his throws at his workout yesterday, but did shy away from throwing alot of deep-out patterns, which are one of the more difficult passes....Sanchez is reportedly being courted most by Jacksonville, Detroit, Washington, Denver, St. Louis, Seattle and the New York Jets. LA Times
Jets, Redskins hot after Cutler...Mike Klis of the Denver Post reports two NFL sources said the Washington Redskins and New York Jets have been the most aggressive in pursuit of Jay Cutler. Denver Post
Scheffler could be next...Denver Broncos' TE Tony Scheffler's could be the next player on the block in Denver...Scheffler's reaction to the news of the Broncos willingness to trade Cutler,..."I'm not happy about it," said tight end Tony Scheffler, one of Cutler's closest friends on the team. Denver Post -Al Fronczak
Teams flooding phone lines for Cutler...Word out of Denver on Wednesday night was that so many NFL teams were interested in joining the Jay Cutler sweepstakes, the Broncos were demanding text and e-mail communication because they couldn't keep up with all the phone calls...''Nobody can get a call back,'' one league source said.''It could mean something's happening fast, or maybe they're just overwhelmed.'' Sun Times
Cutler won't be headed to Cleveland...Mike Mulligan of the Sun Times reports there's no way Jay Cutler will play for Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini...Cutler's agent is Bus Cook...Cook also represented Brett Favre, who didn't enjoy the Mangini experience with the Jets last year. Sun Times
Cutler didn't want to get traded...Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reports Broncos' QB Jay Cutler wanted to remain a Bronco...Cutler said "I was surprised they decided to trade me this soon,"..."I didn't want to get traded...This wasn't me...The Broncos had been going back and forth saying things, wanting me to be their quarterback and then they didn't."..."I really didn't want this...I love Denver...I really like my teammates....I didn't want it to get this far." Fox Sports
04/01...Sanchez impresses...The consensus at the USC Pro Day was that QB Mark Sanchez had an excellent performance in front of a full house that included NFL scouts and coaches...He showed balance, solid footwork and most importantly, accuracy on all of his throws....He estimated that he threw about 80 passes, a strong number for a pro day workout...Sanchez did add to his throwing script, and the Lions were one of the teams that requested some extra looks...A college quarterback with only 16 starts might raise red flags, and one NFL GM commented “I’ve never seen a guy not complete 99.9 percent of his passes against air". NFL.com
Bowlen calling Cutler's bluff?...In a statement released last night by the Broncos, team owner Pat Bowlen said that “numerous attempts to contact Jay Cutler in the last 10 days, both by head coach Josh McDaniels and myself, have been unsuccessful.”...Cutler’s camp says that’s just not so....Sources close to Bowlen responded to George in five words: “We have the phone records.” NFL.com
USC linebacker Rey Maulaluga ran a 4.70 forty time at his pro day workout today. -Mike Mayock
Broncos - Redskins Trade?...ESPN's Chris Mortenson reports that he wouldn't be surprised if a trade is completed between the Broncos and Redskins involving Jay Cutler within the next 24 hours.
Arizona OT Eben Britton has already held personal workouts for the Miami Dolphins, Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs....Florida St. DE Everette Brown has a personal workout scheduled with the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday. -Al Fronczak
USC Pro Day...ESPN's Todd McShay reports LB Rey Maulaluga looked very good in the position drills today, but has yet to run his forty yard dash...LB Brian Cushing improved his forty time from the combine by running a 4.69 forty...LB Clay Matthews looked outstanding in the position drills, and was the smoothest of the three linebackers in the position drills.
Broncos interested in Caldwell...Alabama center Antoine Caldwell told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Tim Ryan and Pat Kirwan that he had a private workout with the Denver Broncos this morning and have a visit scheduled with the Broncos on April 7...Caldwell also has a visit scheduled with the Cleveland Browns on April 13.
USC Pro Day...Among the huge contingent of coaches, scouts and player personnel executives in L.A. today for the USC Pro Day workouts are Saints coach Sean Payton and his defensive staff, Vikings coach Brad Childress, Lions coach Jim Schwartz, Cardinals team president Michael Bidwill and GM Rod Graves, and five members from the Seahawks....There were 87 media requests for the afternoon workouts. Brandt/NFL.com
Maulaluga bust factor...Nolan Nawrocki of Pro Football Weekly reports Ray Maualuga's stock has taken a hit recently, and nothing Maualuga does at his pro day today will erase the concerns teams have about him on tape and off the field...“Chart how many times he is on the ground,” one longtime evaluator said, “and you will see why I think he will always struggle in the pros. He had so much talent around him — that defense may be as talented as I’ve ever seen in college. It covers up a lot of mistakes.”...Maualuga not only showed poor judgment preceding the Rose Bowl, when he mocked ESPN reporter Erin Andrews, and later apologized, inside sources also have pointed to the need for Maualuga to be closely monitored on the road to provide the stability he needed to stay out of trouble..."He has a high bust factor," said one NFL executive. Pro Football Weekly
Jenkins visits...Ohio State CB Malcolm Jenkins has a visit scheduled with the New Orleans Saints on Monday, and will also visit the Jets, Patriots, and Titans before the draft. -Al Fronczak
Brady could be part of Cutler Package...Speculation is rampant that the Cleveland Browns will be involved in three-way trade talks for disgruntled Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler...ESPN's John Clayton speculated today that the Browns could become part of a three-way trade that would send Brady Quinn to Denver and involve the Detroit Lions, who have the No. 1 overall pick in the draft. Cleveland.com
DUI manslaughter charges are expected to be filed Wednesday afternoon against Cleveland Browns wide receiver Donte' Stallworth, alleging the football player was driving drunk last month when he struck and killed a pedestrian on Miami Beach, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation. Miami Herald
Jets contact Stafford for visit...Georgia QB Matthew Stafford told Sirius NFL Radio hosts Bob Papa, Randy Cross and Peter King that he received a call from the New York Jets this morning...The Jets contacted Stafford to schedule a private visit with them for later this month, which could fuel speculation that the Jets may be interested in moving up in the draft for Stafford, if they're unsuccessful in trading for Jay Cutler. -Al Fronczak
Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune reports the Chicago Bears have made signing free-agent OT Orlando Pace a priority and intend to leave him at left tackle if he joins the team, according to an NFL source...Pace also reportedly has an offer on the table from Baltimore Ravens. Chicago Tribune
Minnesota Vikings Head coach Brad Childress and Green Bay GM Ted Thompson were in attendance at the UCLA Pro Day yesterday, and will also be present for the USC Pro Day today. LATimes
Seahawks make trip to USC...Several members of the Seattle Seahawks' front office have made the trip to Southern California, and will be present at the USC Pro Day today. LATimes
Sanchez meets with 'Hawks & Jags...USC QB Mark Sanchez was scheduled to meet last night with the Seattle Seahawks and Jacksonville Jaguars brass. LATimes
Tennessee Titans tight end Bo Scaife is not taking part in the team's offseason program and might skip all of the workouts unless he gets a long-term contract, sources familiar with the situation said. Tennessean
John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans and cornerback Dunta Robinson aren’t expected to participate in the Texans' voluntary offseason program because they’re unhappy with their current contract situations. Houston Chronicle
Cassel to wear no. 7...Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel will wear number 7 for the Chiefs. Kansas City
Texas A&M quarterback Stephen McGee is scheduled to meet with the New England Patriots on one of the team’s allotted 30 pre-draft visits at Gillette Stadium, according to a league source. Reiss/Boston.com
Two schools (Mississippi State and Southern California) will be holding their pro day workouts today.
McDaniels pride and arrogance play out...Dave Krieger of the Denver Post reports It was head coach Josh McDaniels pride, and arrogance that ruined the relationship between the Broncos and Jay Cutler...McDaniels refused to clue Cutler in before their trade talks involving Cutler, and refused to come clean afterward and refused to the end to be the bigger man, to admit he had fumbled the ball and try to make it right...In his first three months on the job, the Broncos' new coach has driven off the franchise quarterback and made it difficult to believe anything he says. Denver Post
Jets and others in mix for Cutler...The New York Jets have been aggressive in their pursuit of Cutler..The Jets, who have extra picks in the third and fourth rounds, are better stocked for the upcoming draft than the Redskins, who don't have picks in the second and fourth round...Four other National Football Conference teams (Tampa Bay, Chicago, Minnesota and Detroit) have previously expressed interest in Cutler. Denver Post
Redskins leading candidate to land Cutler?...The Washington Redskins are among the leading candidates to pull off a deal for Cutler...The Redskins have a proven young quarterback in Jason Campbell and would meet the Broncos' preference of dealing Cutler outside their American Football Conference...The Redskins also have the No. 13 selection in this year's draft on April 25, one spot behind the Broncos. Denver Post
Cutler surprised by decision...Mike Klis of the Denver Post reports a source close to Broncos' QB Jay Cutler said the quarterback was surprised by Pat Bowlen's decision...In recent days, Cutler had packed up his car in Nashville and had it shipped to Denver, where he intended to show up for the team's first minicamp April 17-19...The source added that Cutler said he has not received phone calls from the Broncos since he received a text from McDaniels a week ago Tuesday. Denver Post
Broncos to deal Cutler...Peter King of SI.com reports in a stunning turn of events, Broncos owner Pat Bowlen released a statement at 9 p.m. ET Tuesday saying both he and coach Josh McDaniels had been unable to get Cutler to call them back over the last 10 days...Bowlen said he spoke with Cutler's agent, Bus Cook, on Tuesday and came away convinced "that Jay no longer has any desire to play for the Denver Broncos."...
Therefore, Bowlen said, "We will begin discussions with other teams in an effort to accommodate his request to be traded." SI.com
