NFL Offseason Thread

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This doesnt have anything to do with free agency, its just funny, No Richie NO!





Cards coach booked for soliciting pros ution

NFL.com wire reports



PHOENIX (March 9, 2007) -- Former NFL running back Richie Anderson, now an assistant coach with the Arizona Cardinals, was arrested during a Phoenix police anti-pros ution operation.

Anderson, 35, was arrested at about 9:30 p.m. March 8 for soliciting pros ution at about 9:30 p.m., Sgt. Andy Hill said. The department's vice unit was conducting an undercover sting operation in south Phoenix when Anderson allegedly solicited an officer posing as a pros ute.

Ken Whisenhunt, the Cardinals new head coach, hired Anderson as wide receivers coach in January. He played 13 seasons in the NFL with the New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys. He was a 2000 Pro Bowl selection while with the Jets and holds the team record for receptions by a running back at 305.

He retired as a player after the 2005 season and spent 2006 as an assistant wide receivers and tight end coach with the Jets.

Cardinals officials said they planned to release a statement on Anderson's arrest.

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Tracking the comings and goings in free agency


By Adam Schefter
NFL Analyst




Free agency has opened with a flurry of activity. Already, numerous teams are on the board. Take a glance at the deals, and the potential soon-to-be deals.

Friday, March 9
The Raiders reached agreement Friday evening with Atlanta 's free-agent fullback Justin Griffith on a three-year, $3.8 million contract, completing a whirlwind day of activity in Oakland. The deal is contingent upon Griffith passing his physical.

It was a busy day for the Browns. The team terminated the contract of veteran cornerback Daylon McCutcheon on Friday after he failed his physical. It also traded running back Reuben Droughns, who was due a $1.75 million roster bonus next week, to the New York Giants for wide receiver Tim Carter. Cleveland also signed Cincinnati restricted free agent defensive tackle Shaun Smith to an offer sheet. The Bengals now have until March 17 to decide whether or not to match.

Not only did the Raiders sign running back Dominic Rhodes to a two-year deal, but they also did the same with a pair of free-agent tight ends -- former Arizona Cardinal Bob Wakefield and former Cincinnati Bengal Tony Stewart. Wakefield is considered a superb blocker, while Stewart is a jack of all trades. The Raiders also hosted a visit with Atlanta free agent fullback Justin Griffith. And if that weren't enough, the team also re-signed wide receiver Alvis Whitted.

Dallas re-signed free agent OL Marc Colombo to a two-year, $7 million contract that includes $5 million worth of guaranteed money.

Chicago free agent defensive tackle Alfonso Boone visited the Denver Broncos.

Free agent RB Dominic Rhodes reached agreement Friday morning on a two-year, $7.5 million contract with the Oakland Raiders.

The Philadelphia Eagles reached agreement Friday with free agent CB Will James -- the former Will Peterson.

Free agent fullback Justin Griffith is scheduled to visit with the Raiders on Friday.

Free agent CB Jamar Fletcher is scheduled to visit the Kansas City Chiefs.

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Updated: March 9, 2007, 10:06 PM ET
Seahawks reach an agreement with Browns' RussellESPN.com news services


Seattle Seahawks: On Friday, a day after making Deon Grant the third-highest-paid safety in football, the Seahawks reached an agreement on a five-year deal with Browns safety Brian Russell. Financial terms weren't available, but Russell becomes the second new safety added to the Seattle roster in 24 hours.




Russell

The addition of Grant and Russell means the Seahawks won't re-sign starter Ken Hamlin, a Pro Bowl alternate who is a free agent and recently visited the New Orleans Saints.


Russell, 28, has played with the Vikings and Browns during his six-year NFL career. He was an undrafted acquisition of the Vikings in 2001 and had a nine-interception season in 2002 for Minnesota.


-- ESPN.com's John Clayton


Denver Broncos: Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith restructured his contract by taking a $5 million paycut, although he and the team left the door open for further talks about his contract.


Smith was scheduled to receive a $1 million roster bonus Thursday. With a $5.5 million salary and the possibility of being a third receiver this year, the Broncos needed for him to restructure his contract to clear up cap room. Though Smith was busy with personal matters, he beat the deadline by reducing his salary for $5.5 million to $1.5 million and not taking his $1 million roster bonus. The Broncos needed the cap room because they were filing the new $6 million a year contract for tight end Daniel Graham.


Smith also reduced his base salary in 2008 from $6.5 million to $1.5 million. Smith recently underwent hip surgery and faces a four-month recovery.

-- ESPN.com's John Clayton

Cleveland Browns: The Browns, who traded veteran halfback Reuben Droughns Friday, finally gave up waiting for cornerback Daylon McCutcheon to come back from injuries.

On Friday, they released McCutcheon, claiming he failed a physical. McCutcheon was scheduled to make $2.3 million this season. McCutcheon was a third-round pick of the Browns in their first season, 1999.


-- ESPN.com's John Clayton

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Lions reach an agreement, add Duckett to backfieldBy Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com


For the second time in two weeks, the Detroit Lions have bolstered their running back depth chart, with ESPN.com learning that the team on Friday night reached a contract agreement with unrestricted free agent T.J. Duckett.


T.J. Duckett
Running Back
Washington Redskins

Profile
2006 SEASON STATISTICS
Rush Yds TD Rec Yds TD
38 132 2 2 16 0


A former first-round draft choice, Duckett will sign a one-year contract worth between $1.5 million-$2 million.



Last week, the Lions acquired tailback Tatum Bell from Denver in a trade that sent cornerback Dre Bly to the Broncos. There have already been reports that teams have contacted the Lions about possible deals for Bell, who led Denver in rushing in 2006, with 1,025 yards.



Detroit is stockpiling backs to provide itself options in the event that starter Kevin Jones is not fully rehabilitated from the foot injury which sidelined him for the final month of the 2006 season. Jones suffered a Lisfranc sprain and the recovery from that injury can be dicey. It is not yet known if Jones will be ready for training camp.



Duckett, 26, visited with team officials from the New York Giants and Seattle Seahawks in recent days and received inquiries from several other clubs. The deal with the Lions returns the Kalamazoo, Mich., native to his home state and provides him an opportunity to jump-start a career that slumped in 2006.



A first-round pick of Atlanta in 2002, Duckett played four seasons for the Falcons, all but one of them productive ones, but was traded to Washington last summer in a three-team deal. He played sparingly for the Redskins, however, carrying just 38 times for 132 yards and appearing in only 10 games.



For his career, Duckett has 2,307 yards and 33 touchdowns on 590 attempts, and also has 31 receptions for 249 yards. He has appeared in 65 games and started in 13 of them. His best season was in 2003, when Duckett rushed for 779 yards and 11 touchdowns while sharing the playing time workload with Warrick Dunn in the Falcons backfield.



A solid short-yardage and goal-line back, as evidenced by the 27 touchdowns he scored 2003-2005, Duckett also possesses surprising elusiveness. His goal is to re-establish himself with the Lions in 2007 and then perhaps go back into the free agent market again next spring.


Len Pasquarelli is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.



Updated: March 9, 2007, 9:08 PM ET
Division rival Browns sign Bengals' Smith to offer sheetBy Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com


Hoping to add a promising young interior lineman, and to double their pleasure by pirating him away from a division rival, the Cleveland Browns on Friday evening signed Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Shaun Smith to a restricted free agent offer sheet, sources confirmed to ESPN.com.


Shaun Smith
Defensive Tackle
Cincinnati Bengals

Profile
2006 SEASON STATISTICS
Tot Solo Ast FF Sack Int
10 6 4 0 0 0


Details of the offer sheet were not immediately available, nor was it known if the Bengals have yet received the paperwork involved in the transaction. Once the offer sheet is officially executed, Cincinnati will have seven days in which to match the offer sheet or pass on it.



Should the Bengals match it, they will assume the terms of the deal the Browns negotiated with Smith, a three-year veteran. If Cincinnati does not match the offer sheet, Smith will move on to the Browns. But because Smith entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, and Cincinnati made him the lowest qualifying offer for a restricted free agent, the Bengals would receive no compensation if he departed under the offer sheet.



Smith, 25, is a squat, powerfully built defender who would likely challenge for the starting nose tackle job in Cleveland's 3-4 front.



His numbers will never be very impressive, as evidenced by just 74 tackles and no sacks in 34 games, but the 325-pound Smith will eat up blockers inside and allow the linebackers to flow to the football.



Smith's best season came in 2005, when he compiled 38 tackles in 13 games, and logged five starts. He fell out of favor with Bengals' coaches late in 2006, and did not play in the final three games of the campaign, but several teams looking to add a young lineman with promise considered him a potential steal.



Because of the depth they have ac ulated at tackle, and the fact they already have some emerging young players at the position, the Bengals may elect to not match the offer sheet.



Of course, adding to the intrigue of the offer sheet is the fact that the Bengals and Browns are division rivals who play in the same state. Last week, the Browns signed unrestricted free agent offensive guard Eric Steinbach, one of the best players available at any position, to a lucrative contract.



Securing the services of restricted free agents historically has proven a difficult undertaking with the current system. In the 14 previous years of free agency, only 55 restricted free agents changed teams. Four restricted free agents changed teams in 2006.



So far this year, one restricted free agent, wide receiver Wes Welker, has switched teams. But that move, with Welker going from Miami to New England, came after the Patriots signed him to an offer sheet, and then the two teams subsequently agreed to a trade.



The Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this week signed San Francisco punter Andy Lee to a restricted free agent offer sheet, but the 49ers quickly matched it.


Len Pasquarelli is a s

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Updated: March 10, 2007, 11:08 AM ET
Raiders agree with fullback GriffithBy Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com


The Oakland Raiders have reached agreement with unrestricted free agent fullback Justin Griffith, continuing to address a backfield that was in need of upgrades in quality and depth,




Griffith
The deal with Griffith, one of the NFL's top fullbacks who played the first four seasons of his career with the Atlanta Falcons, comes in the wake of Friday's addition of former Indianapolis tailback Dominic Rhodes. Griffith figures to be the primary escort now for the tailback tandem of Rhodes and LaMont Jordan and his signing could foreshadow the end of fullback Zack Crockett's long tenure with the Raiders.


Griffith, 25, will sign a three-year contract worth $3.8 million. The deal is contingent upon him passing his physical exam.


In Oakland, he will be reunited with assistant coaches Greg Knapp and Tom Cable on the staff assembled by rookie head coach Lane Kiffin. Knapp was the offensive coordinator in Atlanta for three of Griffith's four seasons there and Cable was the offensive line coach in 2006.


It is believed that both coaches lobbied hard for the addition of Griffith, who is a prototype West Coast offense fullback.


Some league observers were surprised that Atlanta made so little effort to retain Griffith, a two-time Pro Bowl alternate. But under new coach Bobby Petrino, the Falcons wanted a bigger, lead-blocking type fullback for their offense, and they signed former Baltimore starter Ovie Mug i last week.


Griffith, a former Mississippi State standout, was chosen by the Falcons in the fourth round of the 2003 draft, and earned a starting job as a rookie. He played in 60 games, starting 48 of them in four seasons. Griffith rushed for 378 yards and one touchdown on 81 carries and had 87 catches for 621 yards and nine scores.


Griffith had 20-plus catches every season in Atlanta and was especially effective in "red zone" situations. He can also play tailback in one-back formations.


In addition to Griffith, the Raiders added a pair of journeyman tight ends late Friday, striking deals with Fred Wakefield and Tony Stewart. The former, a onetime defensive lineman, played previously for Arizona. The latter played for Cincinnati and was a special teams standout there.


Len Pasquarelli is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.

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Updated: March 10, 2007, 2:27 AM ET
Recently retired QB talks about life after footballAssociated Press


DENVER -- Jake Plummer poured a glass of water, took a giant gulp and then talked for almost five minutes about how he was officially retiring from the NFL before stepping away from the podium without answering any questions.



Plummer

The Denver Broncos quarterback was in a hurry Friday. He had a handball tournament he needed to attend.


"I wanted to come in and tell you guys on camera and face-to-face that the speculation can stop tonight," Plummer said from the Denver Athletic Club. "You can know by the looking in my face and hearing my words that I am retiring from the NFL. At 32 years old, I'm running away from the game. Not in fear or fright, but health-wise. I'm healthy. I'm happy. I have a lot to look forward to in my life."


The Broncos traded Plummer to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on March 3 for a conditional pick in the 2008 draft. The Bucs made the deal despite being aware of Plummer's retirement plans. He said on the Web site of The Jake Plummer Foundation last Saturday that he was retiring.


"Football has been awesome to me in many ways. I leave the game with my health and happiness, and look forward to the future," Plummer said on the Web site.


Yet there was still doubt whether he'd follow through with retirement. Maybe it was leverage to get traded to the Houston Texans so he could be reunited with former offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak?


Plummer doused the speculation.


"You don't have to chase me around anymore," he said. "There will not be a jersey that has an NFL patch right here [pointing to his chest]. If [Broncos third-string quarterback] Preston Parsons gets in somehow, maybe I'll have his jersey on."


Plummer has three years left on his contract and was due $5.3 million in 2007. He led Denver to the AFC championship game two seasons ago, but lost his starting job after 11 games last season to rookie Jay Cutler. Plummer was 40-18 as Denver's starter, including a 1-3 mark in the playoffs.


"I poured my heart and soul into this game, not just in the NFL, but in college and in high school," Plummer said. "I'm ready to move on with my life and try some new challenges."


One of those challenges is handball. He and his brother, Eric, were scheduled to play in the Colorado state handball doubles tournament this weekend.


"Life is grand, life is exciting," Plummer said. "I'm excited to move on, and encounter and take on new challenges with my life. ... I'm excited to see my family more, to be spending time with my friends. You guys can probably know that I'll be at a mountain, either at the bottom or the top of a mountain somewhere. Don't worry about Jake, he'll be fine."


Plummer went out of his way to heap praise on his teammates and how much they meant to him.


"Anything in the NFL I've ever achieved, anything I did that was positive, exciting, got you on your feet, I couldn't have done it without the guys surrounding me, the guys that gave me the love, gave me the energy," Plummer said. "If anything, that's the hardest thing -- I'll miss those guys."


Plummer gripped the edge of the podium and stared down.


"Just know I'm going to be fine," he said. "I appreciate everyone's support. So, thank you."


With that he retreated down the hall of the Denver Athletic Club to get ready for his handball match.

Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press

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Cowboys | Rivera's future uncertain
Sat, 10 Mar 2007 10:32:29 -0800

Mac Engel, of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, reports Dallas Cowboys OG Marco Rivera's tenure with the team is likely over after the team agreed to a contract with OL Marc Colombo. Rivera is coming off his second back surgery in two years and there is a possibility that he could retire. Talking about Rivera's future with the team, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said, "He will decide what his future is going to be. I don't need to go into his pluses. We are all aware of the issues of his back. [Signing Colombo] allows us the flexibility to be pretty patient with Rivera."


Cowboys | Team cuts Fabini
Sat, 10 Mar 2007 10:17:58 -0800

Mac Engel, of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, reports Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said the team has released OL Jason Fabini.


Eagles | Team offers Fowler a contract
Sat, 10 Mar 2007 10:45:09 -0800

Calvin Watkins, of The Dallas Morning News, reports the Philadelphia Eagles have made a contract offer to restricted free-agent LB Ryan Fowler (Cowboys).


Steelers | Mahan agrees to terms
Sat, 10 Mar 2007 09:45:31 -0800

Jim Flynn, of PewterReport.com, reports free agent OL Sean Mahan (Buccaneers) has agreed to terms with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.


ans | A. Jones might not report to team March 19
Fri, 9 Mar 2007 20:30:36 -0800

The Associated Press reports Tennessee ans head coach Jeff Fisher does not expect CB Adam Jones to report to the team's facility March 19 with the rest of his teammates. The NFL is examining 10 separate incidents in which Jones has been questioned by police since being drafted.


Ravens | No timetable for Ogden decision
Sat, 10 Mar 2007 08:16:48 -0800

Jamison Hensley, of the Baltimore Sun, reports the Baltimore Ravens have not given OT Jonathan Ogden a timetable for determining whether he will return in 2007 or retire. "We'll know when Jonathan calls us," general manager Ozzie Newsome said.

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Chiefs land veteran LB EdwardsBy Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com


Veteran linebacker Donnie Edwards, who wore out his welcome in San Diego despite being one of the Chargers' most productive defenders, is being welcomed back by the team with which he began his NFL career.


Edwards

One of the more sought after defenders remaining in the unrestricted free agent pool, Edwards on Saturday reached agreement with the Kansas City Chiefs on a three-year contract worth about $14 million.

The 11-year veteran was originally chosen by the Chiefs as a fourth-round selection in the 1996 draft. He signed with the Chargers as an unrestricted free agent in 2002.

Edwards, 33, is the second standout linebacker added by the Chiefs in recent days. Last week, Kansas City signed unrestricted free agent Napoleon Harris to a six-year contract. Clearly, coach Herm Edwards is determined to overhaul his linebacker corps in the offseason, after a 2006 campaign in which the Chiefs' defense statistically ranked 16th in the league.

Despite his age, and the fact the Chargers had tired of what they perceived as his excessive contract demands, Edwards drew considerable interest leaguewide in the opening days of the free agent signing period, and with good reason.

The former UCLA standout is a versatile defender, one who played inside linebacker in the San Diego 3-4 alignment, but who had performed well in the past as an outside linebacker in a 4-3 scheme. Harris is projected by most as the new middle linebacker for the Chiefs, so Edwards probably will move back to an outside slot in Kansas City.

No matter where he has aligned in the past, Edwards has been a consistent and durable playmaker. In 11 seasons, he has missed only two games, just one due to injury. And his resume is one of the most well-rounded among NFL linebackers over the past decade.

For his career, Edwards has 1,479 tackles, 21½ sacks, 27 interceptions, 51 passes defensed, 14 forced fumbles and 10 recoveries. His 17 interceptions are the most by any linebacker in the league since 2002 and he led the Chargers in tackles in each of the past five seasons.

Edwards has posted 150-plus tackles five times in his career. But his interception and passes defensed totals also reflect his rare ability to drop and cover as well.

San Diego officials attempted to trade Edwards last spring and came close to a deal with the New Orleans Saints before deciding to retain him. He ended up starting in all 16 games on a San Diego defense that ranked 10th in the league, and registered 141 tackles, 2½ sacks and three interceptions.

Edwards has appeared in 174 games and started in 160 of them.

Len Pasquarelli is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.

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Cardinals sign free agent cornerback HoodESPN.com news services

Arizona Cardinals: The Arizona Cardinals on Saturday signed free agent cornerback Roderick Hood to a five-year contract. Terms weren't disclosed.

Hood played for the Philadelphia Eagles last season, appearing in 10 games but missing six because of injuries. He had 18 tackles (13 solo) and one sack.

Hood signed as a rookie free agent with the Eagles in 2003 out of Auburn. In 56 games with the Eagles, he collected 98 tackles, five interceptions, four fumble recoveries and a forced fumble. He's also returned kickoffs 53 times for 1,236 yards, an average of 23 yards per attempt, and made 40 special teams tackles.

The 25-year-old is a native of Columbus, Ga.


-- The Associated Press


New York Jets: Backup offensive lineman Wade Smith re-signed with the New York Jets for one year, agent Brian Parker said Saturday.

The versatile unrestricted free agent spent most of last season with the Jets, where he was reunited with offensive line coach Tony Wise, who coached him in Miami. The Dolphins selected Smith in the third round of the 2003 draft and released him last year.

-- The Associated Press



Colts | Team signs Labinjo
Sat, 10 Mar 2007 13:57:52 -0800

Tom James, of the Tribune-Star, reports the Indianapolis Colts have signed LB Mike Labinjo. No terms of the deal have been disclosed.


Colts | Team signs Marsh
Sat, 10 Mar 2007 13:25:52 -0800

Tom James, of the Tribune-Star, reports the Indianapolis Colts have signed FS Antwan Marsh. No terms of the deal have been disclosed.


Giants | Droughns likely to be backup
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 11:43:48 -0800

The Associated Press reports New York Giants RB Reuben Droughns is likely to be a backup to third-year RB Brandon Jacobs, who is the front-runner to succeed retired RB Tiki Barber in the Meadowlands.


Cardinals | Looking for offensive lineman in draft
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 11:29:37 -0800

Kent Somers, of the Arizona Republic, reporting for the Sporting News, reports the team would be ecstatic if Wisconsin OT Joe Thomas somehow fell to No. 5 in the draft. He'd be an instant starter and fill a need for the team, which is quality offensive lineman. If USC C Ryan Kalil is there in the second round, the team will be greatly tempted to take him there.


Cardinals | Whisenhunt to put emphasis on running game
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 11:15:55 -0800

Kent Somers, of the Arizona Republic, reporting for the Sporting News, reports new Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt is going to place a heavy emphasis on the run. The club plans to run 35 to 40 times a game, and it will utilize two or three backs, instead of asking RB Edgerrin James to carry that big of a load.


49ers | Team will switch to a 3-4 scheme
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 11:11:49 -0800

Dennis Georgatos, of the San Jose Mercury News, reporting for the Sporting News, reports the San Francisco 49ers plan to use a 3-4 scheme in 2007, which is favored by head coach Mike Nolan. In the past two years, the team played mostly 4-3 because it kept getting set back by injuries, depth issues, and the lack of a wide-bodied nose tackle.


Seahawks | Babineaux could challenge for starting job
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 10:48:04 -0800

Mike Sando, of the Tacoma News Tribune, reports Seattle Seahawks SS Jordan Babineaux is a potential candidate to serve as nickel cornerback or possibly challenge for a starting spot in the 2007 season.


Texans | Team won't trade up for Quinn
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 06:52:26 -0800

John McClain, of the Houston Chronicle, reports the Houston Texans will not trade up from the No. 8 spot to select Notre Dame QB Brady Quinn in the NFL Draft. If Quinn were still available when the team selects they likely would not pass Quinn up, however. Team officials insist they are trying to acquire draft picks and not surrender them.



This kid wasnt invited to the combine, watch out for him

NFL | R. Hall impresses at Pro Day
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 07:30:15 -0800

Tony Grossi, of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, reports Ohio State WR Roy Hall impressed during his Pro Day Saturday, March 10, by running the 40-yard dash in under 4.4 seconds, according to some scouts. Hall is listed at 6-3, 238 pounds. Hall was not invited to the NFL Combine. "He's a kid that will be on people's radar now," said Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman.


49ers | Team could target Carriker
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 11:05:15 -0800

Dennis Georgatos, of the San Jose Mercury News, reporting for the Sporting News, reports the San Francisco 49ers could target Nebraska DE Adam Carriker with the 11th overall pick. Carriker has drawn the attention from the 49ers personnel staff and head coach Mike Nolan, who got a chance to visit with him during the NFL Combine. Carriker has good instincts and displayed very good speed for a big man at the Combine.


49ers | Lewis will play strong safety
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 10:57:18 -0800

Dennis Georgatos, of the San Jose Mercury News, reporting for the Sporting News, reports the San Francisco 49ers will reshuffle their lineup at both safety positions after signing SS Michael Lewis. Lewis will become the 49ers strong safety, while SS Mark Roman will move over to free safety and replace SS Keith Lewis, who could back up either spot.


Seahawks | Hasselbeck expected back by training camp
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 10:50:01 -0800

Mike Sando, of the Tacoma News Tribune, reports Seattle Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck (shoulder) has shed the brace he wore following surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. He is expected to be ready for training camp and could possibly see action in mini-camp.


Cowboys | Owens didn't know entire playbook
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 07:50:41 -0800

Jean-Jacques Taylor, of the Dallas Morning News, reports Dallas Cowboys WR Terrell Owens did not know the team's entire playbook last season. Members of the organization knew Owens was not familiar with the playbook. On occasion, QB Tony Romo and others would have to tell him plays during practice.


Jets | Smith contract update
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 07:35:11 -0800

Dave Hutchinson, of the Star-Ledger, reports the New York Jets re-signed OT Wade Smith to a one-year deal believed to be worth roughly $700,000.


Cardinals | Hood to compete for starting job
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 11:50:32 -0800

Kent Somers, of the Arizona Republic, reports Arizona Cardinals CB Roderick Hood will compete with CB Eric Green for the starting job opposite CB Antrel Rolle. Hood also has experience returning kicks, which was an added attraction for the Cardinals. "We see him in very much the same role he had in Philadelphia, which was as a nickel back and special-teams player," Rod Graves, vice president of football operations said. "And he could very well emerge as the starter."

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Schlesinger agrees to deal with DolphinsBy Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com


Twelve-year veteran fullback Cory Schlesinger, who played his entire career with the Detroit Lions before becoming an unrestricted free agent two weeks ago, has reached agreement with the Miami Dolphins on a two-year contract.



Schlesinger
Financial details of the deal were not immediately available. Schlesinger visited with Miami officials last week.

A prototype fullback during most of his Detroit tenure, and regarded leaguewide as one of the NFL's premier lead blockers, Schlesinger's role was dramatically diminished in the offense installed by Lions' offensive coordinator Mike Martz last season. The Martz system rarely employs a fullback and Schlesinger did not log a single carry and registered only eight receptions.

The eight "touches" in 2006 were the fewest for Schlesinger since 1996.

In Miami, though, first-year coach Cam Cameron feels that Schlesinger, even at age 34, can be an effective escort for tailback Ronnie Brown. During his time as the San Diego offensive coordinator, Cameron witnessed the importance of standout fullback Lorenzo Neal to Chargers' tailback LaDainian Tomlinson, and feels Schlesinger can fill that same role.

Schlesinger never carried more than 49 times in a season in Detroit and never rushed for more than 154 yards. But his value as a blocker and a receiver twice made him a Pro Bowl alternate. In 2001, he notched 60 receptions.

For his career, Schlesinger has 167 carries for 473 yards and five touchdowns. He also has 197 catches for 1,445 yards and nine scores.

The former Nebraska star was a sixth-round choice in the 1995 draft. He has played in 181 games, including 87 as a starter.

Senior writer Len Pasquarelli covers the NFL for ESPN.com.



Seahawks re-sign versatile lineman WomackBy Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com


Having failed in the first week of free agency to land any of the prime offensive linemen in the pool of available veteran blockers, the Seattle Seahawks settled instead for a Pork Chop.



Womack
The Seahawks have reached agreement to re-sign versatile lineman Floyd "Pork Chop" Womack, a move that provides the team stability and takes the six-year veteran out of a market where he was generating solid interest. Details of the contract agreement were not immediately available.

Womack visited last week with officials in Pittsburgh and Atlanta and had lined up meetings with other teams as well.

But after the Seahawks struck out in their attempt to sign San Diego standout guard Kris Dielman, and Seattle officials suddenly realized the prohibitive cost of adding a top-shelf lineman, they turned their attentions back to Womack. And Womack, who started nine games at left guard in 2006, opted to return to the team that brought him into the league in 2001, rather than continue testing the free agent market.

In his six seasons with the Seahawks, Womack, a powerful in-line blocker (6-feet-4, 330 pounds), has started at tackle and guard, and the flexibility that he provides the team is highly valued. It is uncertain where Womack fits into the lineup for the 2007 season but, with longtime veteran right guard Chris Gray unsigned, there may be an opening at that spot.

If the Seahawks don't make any further moves in terms of adding an offensive lineman, Womack may return to his familiar left guard spot.

The former Mississippi State standout, a fourth-round choice in the 2001 draft, has appeared in 61 games and started in 32 of them.

Senior writer Len Pasquarelli covers the NFL for ESPN.com.



Updated: March 11, 2007, 1:42 PM ET
Stallworth might spend just one year with PatriotsBy Michael Smith and Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com


The Patriots continued their offseason spending spree, adding wide receiver Donte' Stallworth to their 2007 haul, league sources told ESPN.com.

Top free agents

StallworthWide reciever Donte' Stallworth is No. 9 on ESPN.com's list of the top NFL free agents on the market. Story

• Scouting report

The deal -- negotiated by agent Drew Rosenhaus, who concluded a frenetic week in free agency by constructing a contract that met the needs of all parties -- can be as brief as one season or as lengthy as six. But for the Patriots to retain Stallworth beyond the 2007 season, a year in which he will make $3.6 million in bonuses and salary, New England will have to make a significant investment.

Stallworth will receive an initial signing bonus of $1 million, a roster bonus of $1.6 million and a $300,000 workout bonus, to go along with his 2007 base salary of $700,000. That totals $3.6 million for the coming season.

It's after the 2007 season, however, when the really big money could potentially kick in.

For the Patriots to retain Stallworth for the 2008 season, they must pay him an option bonus of $6 million by Feb. 25, 2008. There is a subsequent roster bonus of $2 million due on March 1, a second roster bonus of $1.6 million based on playing time, a base salary of $1 million and a $400,000 workout bonus. That totals an exorbitant $11 million for 2008, or a two-year total of $14.6 million.

To keep Stallworth for 2009, the Patriots would have to pay another option bonus, this one of $2 million, by Feb. 25 of that year. In terms of bonuses and base salary, the 2009 season would be worth $5 million to Stallworth, for a three-year total of $19.6 million.

The final three seasons of the contract all include workout bonuses of $500,000 each and base salaries of $4 million each. The maximum value of the contract, if the Patriots were to keep Stallworth for all six years, is $33.1 million.

An initial report on ESPN.com saying the deal was worth a guaranteed $12 million was later clarified by a source, who said the deal -- which only guarantees one year -- gives Stallworth and the Patriots flexibility.

The rationale behind the structure: Stallworth has the opportunity to register a huge season in 2007, playing with quarterback Tom Brady, and on a team that figures to be a Super Bowl contender. And after the 2007 campaign, the Patriots will have to dig deep to retain him, dramatically rework his contract, or allow him to go back into the free agent market. It was a creative concept developed by Rosenhaus, one accepted by several of the teams bidding for Stallworth, to maximize his client's earning potential. At the same time, it provides New England a big-play threat for at least one season, with the capacity to retain Stallworth beyond that, if desired.

Stallworth, who played last season in Philadelphia after being acquired from the New Orleans Saints, also was being courted by the Eagles, Dolphins and ans.


Stallworth, 28, had 38 catches for 725 yards and five touchdowns for the Eagles in 2006. A first-round choice of the Saints in the 2002 draft, he has 233 career receptions for 3,516 yards and 28 touchdowns in 68 games, including 44 starts.

League and union officials are investigating a Philadelphia Inquirer report that Stallworth is in the NFL's substance-abuse program, sources from both parties told ESPN.com.

Citing unnamed sources, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported Monday that Stallworth is a participant in the league program, and that he could be subject to suspension if he suffered a repeat violation of its conditions. The newspaper also reported that a breach of the program's confidentiality agreement can warrant a league fine, and NFL and NFL Players Association officials began to seek out possible sources for the leak on Monday.

The Patriots have been busy this offseason, adding coveted linebacker Adalius Thomas, ranked No. 2 on ESPN.com's list of free agents, as well as Dolphins kick returner/receiver Wes Welker, tight end Kyle Brady and backup running back Sammy Morris.

Senior writers Michael Smith and Len Pasquarelli cover the NFL for ESPN.com.

[mardigan]

Report: Man faces charges after threatening PacmanESPN.com news services


A man was arrested and charged with aggravated assault after police said he threatened troubled ans cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones with a knife at a Franklin, Tenn., bowling alley.

Pacman's Choice
Adam "Pacman" Jones has lived two lives -- a brilliant one on the football field and a troubled one off of it. Which will he choose? Greg Garber reports. Story

No one was hurt during the Friday night incident.

"Mr. Jones was here just trying to be a normal customer, trying to bowl" with several others, Franklin police detective Stephanie Cisco said, according to The Tennessean newspaper.

Clayton Smith, 33, instigated the confrontation at the Franklin Family Entertainment Center when the dispute broke out, Cisco told the paper. Smith brandished a small pocket knife and "threatened to beat up Mr. Jones and to use the knife on him," Cisco said.

Smith was led from the bowling alley and arrested. According to The Tennessean, he has a history of arrests that includes charges of stalking, unlawful weapon possession and drug offenses, Cisco said.

ans coach Jeff Fisher did not return a message from The Tennessean.

Fisher, who talked with Jones by phone Thursday night, doesn't expect his cornerback to return to the ans' facility with the rest of his teammates when they report March 19 for offseason conditioning.

The NFL is examining 10 separate incidents in which Jones has been questioned by police since being drafted, including a Feb. 19 triple shooting at a Las Vegas strip club.

Fisher and chief operating officer Steve Underwood met with Jones' lawyers at the attorneys' request Friday for what Fisher characterized as an information-gathering meeting.

Fisher said the ans are still gathering their own information before deciding whether to keep Jones.

"As an organization it's always been our policy to gather facts and to make sure we have all the information, and that's what we're doing," he said. "At this point, I don't see him coming back on the 19th."

Fisher was clearly upset that Jones failed to inform team officials about two arrests in Fayette County, Ga., last year, including one related to a search for drugs at the home Jones bought for his mother.

"Typically speaking, if there's a situation like this, it's the player's responsibility to inform the club and that did not take place," Fisher told reporters Friday.

Jones' attorneys, Worrick Robinson and Manny Arora, said on radio station WGFX on Friday morning that they didn't expect Jones to be charged in the Las Vegas episode, but acknowledged that their client too often is in the wrong place at the wrong time.

"If he doesn't commit to changing it, at some point it's going to be too much," Arora said. "It may already be there to some extent."

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

[scott]

I thought the 49ers had already won the 08 Superbowl?

[sa_butta]

I thought the 49ers had already won the 08 Superbowl?

They did, they beat the Raiders in a nailbiter.

[sa_butta]

Texans still looking to move Carr.
Possible suiters and Dolphins, Browns and Raiders.

I really hope the Dolphins dont trade away thier #9 for him.

[mardigan]

Eagles | Team signs Fowler to offer sheet
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 15:01:19 -0800

The Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to terms with restricted free-agent LB Ryan Fowler (Cowboys) on a four-year offer sheet. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The Cowboys have seven days to match the offer if they want to keep Fowler.


Cowboys | Rivera wants to play again
Sun, 11 Mar 2007 12:55:12 -0800

Rick Herrin, of the Forth Worth Star-Telegram, reports Dallas Cowboys OG Marco Rivera (back) said he would like to play football again. Rivera, who is currently going through rehabilitation after having back surgery, said, "It's going to take time. My goal is to be there for the first game of the season."


Jaguars | Sharon charged with stealing gun
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 07:37:07 -0800

The Associated Press reports Jacksonville Jaguars WR Charles Sharon was charged with grand theft of a firearm and carrying a concealed firearm after Tampa authorities found a handgun under the seat of his sport utility vehicle during a drug-related search Saturday, March 10. Sharon and a companion were arrested after a police officer noticed the odor of marijuana coming from his vehicle, according to a police report. A search of the vehicle turned up a Glock Model 27 handgun under the driver's seat that had been reported stolen from a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agent in Putnam County last year, the report said. Sharon was released Sunday, March 11, after paying a $4,000 bond. Sharon is the fourth Jaguars player to be arrested since the start of the 2006 season.



Redskins | Boschetti re-signed
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 10:40:04 -0800

Gary Fitzgerald, of Redskins.com, reports the Washington Redskins have re-signed DL Ryan Boschetti (Redskins). Details of the contract were not disclosed.



Bills | A. Thomas re-signed
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 10:40:34 -0800

ESPNews reports the Buffalo Bills have re-signed RB Anthony Thomas (Bills). Details of the contract were not disclosed.



Eagles | Fowler deal not reached after all?
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 12:56:44 -0800

John Murphy, of Yahoo! Sports, reports restricted free-agent LB Ryan Fowler (Cowboys) has not signed a four-year offer sheet with the Philadelphia Eagles as previously reported. While the Eagles have shown legitimate interest in acquiring him, a deal is not yet in place between the two. According to a source, Fowler is expected to sign an offer sheet with an un-named NFL team Monday, March 12.


Lions | McDonald signs
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:13:19 -0800

Adam Schefter, of NFL.com, reports the Detroit Lions have signed unrestricted free-agent WR Shaun McDonald (Rams) to a two-year, $2.8 million contract.


Broncos | Morgan re-signed
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:12:26 -0800

Adam Schefter, of NFL.com, reports the Denver Broncos have re-signed unrestricted free-agent WR Quincy Morgan. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.


Colts | Navarre signed
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:11:57 -0800

Adam Schefter, of NFL.com, reports the Indianapolis Colts have signed unrestricted free-agent QB John Navarre (Cardinals). Terms of the contract were not disclosed.


Eagles | Dillon may be option
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:11:34 -0800

Les Bowen, of the Philadelphia Daily News, reports the Philadelphia Eagles may have their sights set on unrestricted free-agent RB Corey Dillon (Patriots) to be a complement to RB Brian Westbrook.


ans | Fowler agrees to four-year
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 13:51:00 -0800

Todd Archer, of the Dallas Morning News, reports restricted free-agent LB Ryan Fowler (Cowboys) has signed a four-year offer sheet with the Tennessee ans. The Cowboys have a week to match the deal; if they choose not to, they would not receive any compensation for Fowler.


^^SONOFA , I bet you he starts for them next year and does pretty damn well

[mardigan]

Updated: March 12, 2007, 3:20 PM ET
Washington joins rebuilt Pats WR corpsBy Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com


Continuing the wholesale overhaul of their wide receiver corps, the New England Patriots on Monday reached a contract agreement with unrestricted free agent Kelley Washington, who played the first four seasons of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Kelley Washington
Wide Receiver
Cincinnati Bengals

Profile
2006 SEASON STATISTICS
Rec Yds TD Avg Long YAC
9 115 1 12.8 22 48


The deal can be for as many as five years, with a maximum value of $22 million, but is also structured so that it could be as short as just one season. Washington will receive a signing bonus of $300,000.

As is the case with the six-year contract agreed to with New England by wide receiver Donte Stallworth on Sunday, the Patriots must pick up an option payment to retain the speedy Washington beyond the 2007 season. It is believed that payment is $4 million.

"I am happy to be a part of such a great franchise, and to have the opportunity to help the Patriots get back and win another Super Bowl," Washington said. "The privilege to play with arguably one of the best quarterbacks of all time, Tom Brady, and to be coached by someone like Bill Belichick is a blessing. I am very excited about contributing to the New England Patriots."

Washington also had a contract offer from the Miami Dolphins.

One of the most active franchises in the early free agent market, the Patriots have been particularly aggressive in rebuilding a wide receiver corps that was a major disappointment in 2006. In addition to signing Stallworth and Washington, the Patriots acquired restricted wide receiver Wes Welker from the Dolphins last week for second- and seventh-round choices in this year's draft.

The gamble on Washington is a solid one, given that the Patriots appear to have made a fairly modest initial investment for a player who has enormous physical upside if he can stay healthy and play to his potential.

Washington, 27, is a big, speedy wide receiver whose career has been stalled by a series of injuries at both the college and professional levels. The former University of Tennessee wideout played only one full season for the Volunteers before leaving school early for the 2003 draft.

A third-round choice of the Bengals in 2003, he has 72 receptions for 893 yards and nine touchdowns in 44 games, including six starts. His best season was in 2004, when Washington registered 31 receptions for 378 yards and three touchdowns.

Senior writer Len Pasquarelli covers the NFL for

Damn, the Pats have added 3 new recievers this year, and they already had 2 decent ones

[mardigan]

Lions general manager Matt Millen was con uous by his absence from Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn's Pro Day workout last week. Millen's absence seems to indicate that the Lions will bypass a QB and take Wisconsin offensive tackle Joe Thomas.
-- Philadelphia Daily News

If Cleveland doesn't take Brady Quinn with the third pick of next month's NFL draft, Minnesota likely will at No. 7. As a result, the Texans sit today in a surprising position. They're working to rise to the next level, but may need quarterback David Carr to get them there.
-- San Antonio Express-News

With Donte Stallworth and Wes Welker on board with the Patriots, that could factor into whether veteran Troy Brown returns. Brown, who would enter his 15th NFL season, has taken a wait-and-see approach to free agency.
-- Boston Globe

Falcons' offensive line is going to look a lot like it did last season, despite new coach Bobby Petrino's desire to morph the smallish, zone-blocking group into a super-sized unit capable of moving defenders backward and protecting Michael Vick long enough to make him think twice before prematurely jetting out of the pocket.
-- Atlanta Journal-Cons ution

The Dolphins are still believed to be interested in Chiefs quarterback Trent Green, whose services are being shopped around the league. Also, the Dolphins are seeking a draft pick for kicker Olindo Mare, instead of releasing him without compensation.
-- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Cincinnati's Kelley Washington, who visited New England on Friday, remains in discussions with Miami, a source said.
-- Palm Beach Post

Tampa Bay is showing interest in free-agent guard Cooper Carlisle, a Broncos starter the past two years. Carlisle, not expected back in Denver, also visited the Seahawks.
-- Denver Post

The Eagles now are expected to turn their attention to unrestricted free agent Kevin Curtis (Rams), who visited the NovaCare Complex Friday.
-- Trenton Times

Packers linebacker Nick Barnett wants to make two things perfectly clear: He's not going to shortchange himself in negotiations on a short-term contract and he's not going to follow the path Javon Walker and Mike McKenzie in seeking more money.
-- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

[mardigan]

Lions | McDonald signs
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:13:19 -0800

Adam Schefter, of NFL.com, reports the Detroit Lions have signed unrestricted free-agent WR Shaun McDonald (Rams) to a two-year, $2.8 million contract.


Broncos | Morgan re-signed
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:12:26 -0800

Adam Schefter, of NFL.com, reports the Denver Broncos have re-signed unrestricted free-agent WR Quincy Morgan. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.


Colts | Navarre signed
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:11:57 -0800

Adam Schefter, of NFL.com, reports the Indianapolis Colts have signed unrestricted free-agent QB John Navarre (Cardinals). Terms of the contract were not disclosed.


Eagles | Dillon may be option
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:11:34 -0800

Les Bowen, of the Philadelphia Daily News, reports the Philadelphia Eagles may have their sights set on unrestricted free-agent RB Corey Dillon (Patriots) to be a complement to RB Brian Westbrook.


ans | Fowler agrees to four-year
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 13:51:00 -0800

Todd Archer, of the Dallas Morning News, reports restricted free-agent LB Ryan Fowler (Cowboys) has signed a four-year offer sheet with the Tennessee ans. The Cowboys have a week to match the deal; if they choose not to, they would not receive any compensation for Fowler.


^^SONOFA , I bet you he starts for them next year and does pretty damn well


Bears | Briggs says he's done in Chicago
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 15:12:20 -0800

Jay Glazer, of FOXSports.com, reports Chicago Bears LB Lance Briggs, who is the team's franchise player, said he is prepared to sit out the 2007 season if the Bears do not trade or release him. He went on to say he's played his last down for the team and will never play in Chicago again.


Ouch for Chicago



ans | Update on Fowler contract offer
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:14:01 -0800

Updating previous reports, John Murphy, of Yahoo! Sports, reports the offer sheet restricted free-agent LB Ryan Fowler (Cowboys) signed with the Tennessee ans is worth about $12 million over four years and includes about $4 million in up-front money.


Boys arent going to match that

[mardigan]

Updated: March 12, 2007, 7:58 PM ET
Niners, veteran CB Harris agree to two-year extensionAssociated Press


SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Cornerback Walt Harris completed a two-year contract extension with the San Francisco 49ers on Monday.

Walt Harris
Cornerback
San Francisco 49ers

Profile
2006 SEASON STATISTICS
Tot Solo Ast FF Sack Int
63 52 11 4 1 8




Harris, an 11-year veteran who earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl in his first season with the 49ers, led the NFC with eight interceptions. The extension keeps Harris with San Francisco through 2009.

After starring on a mediocre defense last season, Harris will have plenty of compe ion in training camp this summer. The 49ers signed free-agent cornerback Nate Clements to an eight-year, $80 million deal earlier in the month, so Harris will compete for a starting job with Shawntae Spencer, who also got a contract extension last fall.

Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press

[mardigan]

Cardinals | Team trying to retain Beisel
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 17:00:44 -0800

Darren Urban, of East Valley Tribune, reports the Arizona Cardinals are trying to re-sign unrestricted free-agent LB Monty Beisel.


Seahawks | Grant could play either safety spot
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 17:00:25 -0800

Mike Sando, of Tacoma News Tribune, reports Seattle Seahawks S Deon Grant does not know if he will play either strong of free safety and it does not matter to him, since he played both with the Jaguars.


Texans | Team close to signing Zgonina
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 17:00:03 -0800

Jeff Darlington, of Miami Herald, reports the Houston Texans are close to a contract with unrestricted free-agent DL Jeff Zgonina (Dolphins).


Cardinals | R. Anderson relieved of his duties
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 16:46:47 -0800

Mike Jurecki, of XTRA Sports Radio 910 in Phoenix, reports Arizona Cardinals wide receivers coach Richie Anderson has been relieved of his duties after being charged with soliciting a pros ute.


Chargers | V. Stephens hired
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 16:46:36 -0800

The San Diego Chargers announced Vernon Stephens has been hired as the team's assistant strength and conditioning coach.


Patriots | Contract update: Welker
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 16:30:25 -0800

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports New England Patriots WR Wes Welker signed a five-year contract worth $18.1 million. He received a $5.5 million signing bonus and a $3.5 million option bonus due in the spring of 2008. He can earn a $50,000 workout bonus in 2007, $250,000 roster bonuses in each season from 2008 to 2011 and $100,000 workout bonuses in each season from 2008 to 2011. He will earn base salaries of $550,000 (2007), $1.4 million (2008), $1.65 million (2009), $1.9 million (2010) and $2.15 million (2011).


Seahawks | Pollard signs
Tue, 13 Mar 2007 12:09:54 -0800

Mike Sando, of the Tacoma News Tribune, reports the Seattle Seahawks have signed unrestricted free-agent TE Marcus Pollard (Lions) to a one-year contract. Financial terms were not disclosed.


Texans | Bruener re-signs with team
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 19:33:43 -0800

HoustonTexans.com reports the Houston Texans have re-signed free agent TE Mark Bruener. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.



Bills | Team re-signs K. Thomas
Tue, 13 Mar 2007 08:13:35 -0800

Chris Brown, of BuffaloBills.com, reports the Buffalo Bills re-signed CB Kiwaukee Thomas to a multi-year deal Tuesday, March 13.



Cowboys | Team to visit with Bullitt
Tue, 13 Mar 2007 05:45:33 -0800

John Murphy, of Yahoo! Sports, reports the Dallas Cowboys have scheduled a private visit with Texas A&M S Melvin Bullitt, according to league sources.

This kid didnt get invited to the combine, but ran a 4.48 in his Pro Day, had a 40 inch vertical and 3.97 in the shuttle. 6-1, 201 pounds, he will be a damn good pro

[mardigan]

Report: Packers leaders to discuss trade for MossESPN.com news services


GREEN BAY, Wisc. -- The Green Bay Packers' leadership is expected to discuss a potential trade for wide receiver Randy Moss when it meets on Tuesday.


Randy Moss
Wide Receiver
Oakland Raiders

Profile
2006 SEASON STATISTICS
Rec Yds TD Avg Long YAC
42 553 3 13.2 51 127


A trade sending Moss from the Oakland Raiders to Green Bay is already in discussion stages, the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reported, saying according to an unnamed league source, general manager Ted Thompson has already been in direct talks with Raiders owner Al Davis about the move. According to sources, the teams have discussed the trade for a month and the Packers have been given permission to talk to Moss' agent about restructuring his contract.

"They're going to get rid of him," the source said, according to the Journal-Sentinel. "I think they think they can trade him. And I know Green Bay has interest."


Thompson has refused to discuss whether he would deal for Moss. The newspaper reported Tim DiPiero, Moss's agent, was unavailable for comment.


"Ted has not spent a lot of time talking to me about it, quite honestly," Packers chairman of the board Bob Harlan told the Journal-Sentinel. "Ted always starts out our meetings with a football report so he may get into that."

Harlan told the newspaper he has been taking calls, faxes and e-mails from Packers fans on the possible trade, with negative responses still outnumbering the positive. "I'd say it's been maybe 65-35 percent [anti-Moss]," Harlan said. He also said the Packers remain concerned about player character issues and public perception of the team as a classy organization.


"One man wrote, 'Moody. Excess baggage. Disruptive. Do any of these words sound like alarm bells to you?' " Harlan told the Journal-Sentinel. "One guy called from out of state and said, 'Bob, I'd rather see you go 0-16 than do that.' Isn't that something?"

But not all the feedback on Moss is negative, he added.

"People say to me, 'Brett [Favre] needs a big target. I know he's got baggage but he's never hurt anybody,' " Harlan told the newspaper. "Today, they were all, 'Take a chance.'"

[mardigan]

The Patriots have been so aggressive that one NFL observer has a theory: Bill Belichick is firing all his guns at once because he wants to go out on top. The folks at ProFootballTalk.com say the Pats' spending spree has all the makings of a run at one final Super Bowl before Belichick packs it in as a coach of the Pats.
-- Boston Herald

Disgruntled Bears linebacker Lance Briggs is threatening to sit out the 2007 season and surrender the $7.206 million the Bears are scheduled to pay him if the team does not rescind the franchise tag and sign him to a long-term contract.
-- Chicago Sun-Times

The NFL Players Association is concerned that the Patriots and Dolphins violated the Collective Bargaining Agreement while putting together the recent trade of receiver Wes Welker and has asked the NFL Management Council for an explanation, according to a source.
-- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

The Dolphins are still trying to trade kicker Olindo Mare, as discussions continue with the Giants, Falcons, Saints and Browns.
-- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

The Redskins faced a deadline yesterday to exercise $5 million options on safety Adam Archuleta, according to league sources. The decision to delay the move for Archuleta could be a bid to buy more time in order to trade or perhaps cut him.
-- Washington Times

LaVar Arrington is about a month away from being able to pass an NFL physical, according to his agent Kevin Poston, and intends to play next season.
-- Washington Times

The ans intentionally front-loaded the deal with Ryan Fowler to try to dissuade Dallas from matching. It would also help use available salary cap dollars now rather than in future years. If the Cowboys don't match, Fowler will come to Nashville and cost the ans nothing in draft-pick compensation.
-- The Tennessean

It's conceivable the Colts will consider re-signing Brandon Stokley if he doesn't find another suitor.
-- Indianapolis Star

The Cardinals are discussing the possibility of bringing back fullback James Hodgins, according to an NFL source.
-- Arizona Republic

Broncos | Stokley visits
Tue, 13 Mar 2007 13:55:42 -0800

Adam Schefter, of NFL.com, reports the Denver Broncos met with unrestricted free-agent WR Brandon Stokley (Colts).

[mardigan]

NFL | NFLPA wants inquiry on Welker deal
Tue, 13 Mar 2007 08:22:41 -0800

Harvey Fialkov, of the Sun-Sentinel, reports the National Football League Players Association is concerned the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins may have violated the Collective Bargaining Agreement after putting together the trade of WR Wes Welker to the Patriots and has asked the NFL Management Council for an explanation, according to a source. "They may have violated the CBA rule that says one club can't offer the player's former team anything that would (sway) that team from matching their offer," the source said. "Anti-collusion (rule), that's another thing that may come into play." The inquiry was based, in part, on a series of media reports leading up to the trade that indicated the Patriots were ready to give Welker an offer sheet worth $38.5 million over seven years March 3. One media report added the Patriots were going to include a "poison pill" that said Welker's contract would become fully guaranteed should he play four games in Florida. No offer sheet was tendered by the Patriots and on March 5, the Dolphins traded Welker to the Patriots for a second- and seventh-round draft pick.

[mardigan]

Updated: March 13, 2007, 1:02 PM ET
Leonard Davis might be good fit for DallasBy Matt Mosley
ESPN.com
Archive

In addition to being obscenely large, the newest member of the Cowboys' offensive line had the good fortune of being born an hour from the club's practice facility.


Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, an Arkansas native, is suddenly handing out large amounts of cash and head coaching jobs to men who trace their roots to Texas soil, and mammoth offensive lineman Leonard Davis fits right in.


The club-record $16 million signing bonus that Davis received was a watershed moment for underachieving players across the league. The good news is that the Cardinals' No. 2 pick overall in the 2001 draft has always daydreamed of playing for the Cowboys.


The fact that he often did this during games is somewhat troubling.


As word of Davis' signing spread throughout the league, players responded by extending their vacations and swearing off silly offseason workout programs to spend more time with their game systems.


Sportswriters and their families were quick to condemn the signing, saying that Jones would rue the day he guaranteed Davis $18.75 million. Even a couple of high-ranking members of the organization were floored by the price Jones paid in outbidding the Giants and Redskins.



Brian Bahr/Getty Images
Texas native Leonard Davis has been long coveted by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.

You would think veteran players might be resentful of Davis' contract -- especially the guy he may be replacing.


"When I was younger, it may have bothered me," said guard Marco Rivera, who is recovering from his second major back surgery in the past three years. "But now I feel good for him and his family. When you see some of us dropping dead at age 52 and 55, that money doesn't seem so crazy."


Thanks for the buzz kill, Marco.


But he makes a fair point. You don't see as many 338-pound 80-year-olds at the local mall anymore.


There are actually several reasons Jones decided to make Davis such an attractive offer. The one he's willing to admit is that the club completely whiffed on two first-day draft picks in 2004. One of my new ESPN colleagues, Bill Parcells, was sold on USC offensive tackle Jacob Rogers (second round) and LSU guard Stephen Peterman (third round), but neither started a game for the Cowboys. Everyone associated with the franchise has washed their hands of these two players. But, in Parcells' defense, I have a hard time believing that someone didn't agree with his decision.


The Cowboys have chased their draft failures by s ing out over $30 million in signing bonuses to free-agent offensive linemen. Former Cowboys director of scouting Larry Lacewell, who is Jones' close friend, said he and Jones spent a lot of time at the recent NFL scouting combine discussing the offensive line.


"I kept telling him that we've never fixed it," Lacewell said. "If you have the chance to fix it, you have to do it. I believe [Davis] can play at an All-Pro level."


Davis prefers playing guard, but the Cowboys already consider him a potential replacement for one of the league's classic underachievers, left tackle Flozell Adams.


There is another possible reason Jones made a large investment in Davis.


Many around the league believe in the widely held theory that the Bidwill family has created a culture of losing, and that even the most talented players can fall victim to it.


What do Corey Chavous, Simeon Rice, Pete Kendall, Thomas Jones, L.J. Shelton and Jeremy Bridges all have in common? They all achieved their greatest success after leaving the Cardinals.


San Francisco offensive line coach George Warhop was the offensive line coach for the Cardinals when Davis was drafted. He doesn't subscribe to the "losing culture" theory, but he does remember the type of player he worked with in 2001-02.


"His rookie season, he was nothing short of dominant," Warhop said of Davis. "And he was the first alternate in the Pro Bowl his second season. I don't think the Cowboys wasted their money at all."


Warhop described Davis as an intelligent player who during his rookie season would remain in his stance for a split-second on draw plays to confuse defenders.


"I never coached that," Warhop said. "He would just come up with stuff on his own, and it usually worked."


Davis played under five different offensive line coaches while he was in Arizona and appeared to lose heart. Cardinals Pro Bowl defensive end Bertrand Berry has said that Davis, when he puts his mind to it, is the best blocker he's faced.


A former member of the club's personnel department said several players on the team were bothered by the flat-screen TV and Xbox system waiting in Edgerrin James' locker after he signed a lucrative free-agent contract with the team last season. For years, players had made do with Commodore 64s, but James broke the barrier.


"All the sudden he's got a flat-screen and an Xbox in his locker," the scout said. "Guys like Leonard and Boldin were like, 'Wait a minute, why don't the guys who've been around here for a few years have any of this stuff?'"


According to another former employee, the organization only recently began offering employees direct deposit. Many of us have never carried around a $50,000 check, but I'm told it can be somewhat disconcerting.


The Cowboys issued Davis a get-out-of-jail for $16 million card and are hoping that a change of scenery is just what he needed.


And if he's lucky, they may even let him sign up for direct deposit.


Matt Mosley covers the NFL for ESPN.com. He may be reached at [email protected].

[mardigan]

Updated: March 13, 2007, 8:43 AM ET
Briggs reportedly 'prepared to sit' if Bears won't dealESPN.com news services


The glow of a Super Bowl appearance can't extinguish the shadows that are creeping up on the Chicago Bears.



Briggs
Top running back Thomas Jones was shipped to the New York Jets last week and now this week, Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs took his war of words to the next level.

"I am now prepared to sit out the year if the Bears don't trade me or release me," Briggs told FoxSports.com on Monday night. "I've played my last snap for them. I'll never play another down for Chicago again."

Frustrated that he couldn't work out an extension with the Bears and angered that the team slapped the franchise designation on him, Briggs told ESPN.com a week ago that a trade would be in the best interest of all parties.

Bears general manager Jerry Angelo countered that he felt the $7.2 million the team would pay Briggs next season was very fair. The linebacker reportedly turned down a seven-year, $33 million deal in March 2006. Now, he's ready to gamble again.

"People think I can't afford to sit out the year -- I can take out loans to get me through that year just fine because eventually I'll have a deal somewhere," Briggs told FoxSports.com. "There are things I can do to make sure I'm fine financially if I sit out. I can also decide what other course of action I can take as the season gets closer. The Bears have shown I'm not in their long-term plans so if that's the case, I don't want to be here."

Money might not be the only reason Briggs wants out of Chicago. He said he wants to be the leader of a team and knows he'll never overtake Brian Urlacher in Chicago.

"I've talked to Brian about it," Briggs told the Web site. "I'm a compe or and I want the same thing he has. I've learned a lot from Brian as a player and a leader and I eventually want to be 'the man' somewhere. I want to be like him and have everything put on me too. Obviously I'll never be able to do that there.

"Still, had the Bears made me a long-term offer that I found acceptable, I probably would have sacrificed this desire and stayed. I don't want to be somewhere I'm not wanted long-term."