Footballguys Daily Email - Volume 10, Issue 3 (Friday, March 27th)
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Hi Folks,
Hope you're having a great week. I know it's March Madness time so you keep cheering for your favorite teams and we'll take care of running down all the Football News And Notes you'll need to stay on top of everything. Thanks to Footballguy Mark Wimer for the help on these this week. We'll condense the news items down to a summary and throw out a little bit of our take on the story. Have a great weekend and may your brackets go unbroken. JSITE NEWS
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1. CLE - QB Competition Between Quinn, Anderson to be an "Open Competition"2. MIN - QB Competition Begins Between Jackson, Rosenfels
3. DEN - QB Cutler Continues to Skip "Voluntary" Workouts, Won't Report Until Mandatory Workouts Begin
4. MIA - QB Pennington the Starter for 2009, but Henne is to be Groomed for 2010
5. SF - WR Bruce Situation Up in the Air; QB Smith Expected to Be "Full Go" in Minicamp
6. CAR - QB Delhomme, Panthers Negotiating a Contract Extension; HC Fox Defends Delhomme
7. DEN - HC McDaniels Comments on His Crowded RB Stable
8. NYJ - QB Situation Unsettled - Key Minicamp April 16-18
9. CLE - WR Stallworth Accident Update
10. WAS - #3 WR Contested Entering 2009
11. KC - Chiefs to Keep TE Gonzalez; Less Committed to RB Johnson, OG Waters
12. DEN - RB Buckhalter Allegedly Involved in Marijuana Buy
13. ARI - WR Boldin, Team in Contract Extension Talks; QB Warner and QB Leinart Updates
14. BUF - Unconfirmed Rumor - WR Owens Driving Drunk?
15. BUF - WR Owens Skips First Voluntary Workout With Bills
16. DEF - GB Injury Updates on LB Barnett, DE Jenkins, DE Justin Harrell and OT Tauscher
17. DEF - NYG DE Umenyiora "Left Knee is at 99%"
18. NFL - Commissioner Goodell Hopeful That a New CBA Will Be in Place by Next March
19. TEN, PIT - Steelers/Titans to Clash in Thursday Season Opener September 10th
20. NFL - QB Vick Draws Ire of US Department of Labor; Commissioner Goodell Comments on Vick's Possible Reinstatement
21. NFL - Commissioner Goodell Wants 1 or 2 More Regular Season Games
CLE - QB Competition Between Quinn, Anderson to be an "Open Competition"
Source: Tony Grossi, Cleveland Plain Dealer
The open quarterback competition between Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn officially has begun, Browns coach Eric Mangini said at the NFL owners meetings this morning.
While the prospect of trading one still exists, Mangini said he met with both quarterbacks prior to coming here and explained they will have an open competition for the starting job in 2009. "I talked to both of them about that and was very clear," Mangini said. "I said if they have any questions they can come and see me. In terms of the competition and their opportunities. That's what I told them. They understand that." Mangini said after reviewing tapes of both players, holding conversations with them and talking to others, he is "excited" about the prospect of having both compete for the job. "Without knowing exactly what they were being asked to do on each of the plays, I thought both seemed to have a good presence, a good command of the situation. They each do different things in the passing game and running game that I like," he said. Mangini said he will determine later how to divide QB repetitions in offseason practices, the minicamps and then in training camp. He said with the Jets he alternated QBs by the practice period, by the day, even by the interception. He said there is merit in mixing up the opportunities. The coach said there is no timetable in determining his starter.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Given the turmoil among the Browns' receivers (Kellen Winslow moving on to Tampa Bay, Donte Stallworth's traffic accident/legal woes) the starting QB in Cleveland isn't as hot a topic entering 2009 as it was entering 2008. However, assuming Braylon Edwards is able to catch more balls this year, there could be some fantasy value at QB in Cleveland for bargain hunters in the later rounds of fantasy drafts. It'll be interesting to see which QB wins the favor of the new regime in Cleveland (they don't have a vested interest in either guy, as the last management team is responsible for bringing both players to Cleveland).
MIN - QB Competition Begins Between Jackson, Rosenfels
Source: Chip Scoggins, Minneapolis Star-Tribune
“We are legitimately having a competition. Someone has to take the first step, the first snap. Tarvaris will probably do that. It doesn’t mean Sage won’t step up and earn it. I have to create a situation where both guys can be protected by the offensive line, get the benefit of play-calling with Adrian Peterson. I have to get them both in all situations. Is there a certain time for a decision to be made? In a perfect world, earlier than later, but then the question could be asked, ‘Did you really have a competition.’ Typically it will be decided deep in training camp.”
Childress declined to answer anything about Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler, but when asked about anyone else competing, or coming in from the outside, he said: “J.D. Booty is also on the roster. It’s always interesting for me to see a guy that’s in his second year to see if he can make a move. He’s doing his homework, he’s changed his body around and is more familiar with the system. But if you’re handicapping this thing, those are the two (Jackson and Rosenfels) where the starter will be selected from.”[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The Vikings' offense has some nice pieces already in place entering 2009 (the NFL rushing Champ Adrian Peterson, who also snagged 21/125/0 receiving; Chester Taylor, who caught 45/399/2 last year; Bernard Berrian, with 48/964/7 receiving in his first year as a Viking; and emerging TE Vishanthe Shiancoe, who grabbed 42/596/7 receiving last year) - with so many quality targets in the mix, and a dome to play in, the Vikings' QB could be a nice value play during 2009. Stay tuned to see who wins the top job during training camp.
DEN - QB Cutler Continues to Skip "Voluntary" Workouts, Won't Report Until Mandatory Workouts Begin
Source: Vic Lombardi, CBS4Denver.com
Jay Cutler doesn't know if he'll be the Broncos' quarterback in 2009, but as long as he is, he plans to show up at Dove Valley when it becomes mandatory.
I was able to communicate with Cutler Monday afternoon. He indicated to me that he still plans to be in Denver for the Broncos mini-camp in April. That's the earliest he's required to report without being in violation of his contract. So far, Cutler has skipped the Broncos voluntary workouts that began a week ago Monday. Cutler also let me know that he saw parts of Josh McDaniels' interview with the NFL Network on Monday. In that interview, McDaniels stated several times that Cutler is his quarterback and he hopes to keep the lines of communication open to resolve their differences. When asked if he thought the situation was reparable, McDaniels said yes. Cutler had no comment on McDaniels' interview.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
As we stated last week, this situation continues to get uglier and uglier. The last thing Josh McDaniels needed was for his presumptive starting QB to miss spring workouts as he starts to install his program with the Broncos - but that is the current reality of the situation. It doesn't look like the friction is going to be resolved any time soon...Stay Tuned.
MIA - QB Pennington the Starter for 2009, but Henne is to be Groomed for 2010
Source: Armando Salguero, Miami Herald
The Dolphins want everyone to understand there is no quarterback controversy on the team because a healthy Chad Pennington will be the unquestioned starter at the beginning of the 2009 season, but it is equally set in stone that the team wants Chad Henne to be the starting quarterback by 2010.
And those facts will set into motion a series of conversations, negotiations and planning meetings that will begin in the coming months and play out in front of everyone in the preseason. According to a club source, the Dolphins plan to give Henne extended playing time in the preseason while giving Pennington more limited time. "We need to get Chad Henne ready to play," the source said. "We don't think Chad Pennington has to play 12 quarters in the preseason to get ready for the regular season. But we do need to give Henne a chance to get ready because his time is coming."[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
As we often joke, the NFL sometimes stands for "Not For Long" - it sounds like the Dolphins are working on a "Plan B" with aging Chad Pennington taking his place on the hot seat. As long as the Dolphins are in contention for the playoffs, it sounds like the Dolphins will stick with Pennington as the starter. However, the team may want to get Chad Henne some real-game experience at the end of 2009 if the playoffs are out of reach. That's something to keep in mind if you are planning on having Pennington back up your fantasy starter during 2009.
SF - WR Bruce Situation Up in the Air; QB Smith Expected to Be "Full Go" in Minicamp
Source: Matt Barrows, Sacramento Bee
Mike Singletary
Said there was no resolution yet with Isaac Bruce but that he'd like a decision from Bruce by April 1. Said the top goal of the minicamp was to give new offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye a sense of the talent he has to work with on offense. Said that Alex Smith would be full go in the minicamp. Smith later said that the only thing he was concerned about shoulder-wise was building endurance. Shied away from any discussion about Jay Cutler. "He's a player under contract and I'm gonna stay away from that." The scuttlebutt out of Denver is that 10 teams have inquired about Cutler. Explained the team's dalliance with Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner like this: "My job as the head coach of the football team is to do the things that give us the best chance to win."[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The situation at QB in San Francisco is muddled, to say the least. We'll keep a close eye on how the new offense shapes up under Jimmy Raye and how well Alex Smith has been able to recover from his shoulder surgery. We'll see if they can stabilize the offense and move forward (or not).
CAR - QB Delhomme, Panthers Negotiating a Contract Extension; HC Fox Defends Delhomme
Source: Charles Chandler, Charlotte Observer
The Carolina Panthers are talking to quarterback Jake Delhomme’s agent about a possible contract extension, but both sides say it’s too early to say whether a new deal will be reached.
Delhomme, 34, is in the final year of his contract and is scheduled to count more than $11 million against the Panthers’ salary cap next season. The team could significantly reduce his 2009 cap number – perhaps by as much as 50 percent – with a multi-year extension. Wednesday was the first day either side has confirmed the contract talks. “There are discussions,” coach John Fox said at the NFL owners’ meetings. “It’s always ongoing. There is no question we’ve got a commitment to Jake. Whether that comes to fruition with a contract (extension), I can’t say.” Delhomme’s agent, Rick Smith, said the uncertainty of the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement factors into the situation. Unless a CBA extension is reached, the 2010 season is scheduled to be played without a salary cap, without a lockout of players by team owners possible before the 2011 season. “Marty (Hurney, Carolina’s general manager) and I talk every week,” said Smith. “We talk abut a lot of different concepts. Ultimately, they would like to get something done. We’re always talking about different things. Whether or not something will happen, I don’t know.” The Panthers’ firm commitment to Delhomme as their starting quarterback comes despite increased criticism from fans following his six-turnover performance in Carolina’s 33-13 home playoff loss to Arizona on Jan. 10. “Sometimes today’s headlines aren’t the right things (on which to base) a big decision,” said Fox. “Jake had games like that during the season. He didn’t have an especially great game at Tampa. He didn’t have an especially great game out in Oakland. I think that can be said for any quarterback in the National Football League. “So when you’re a decision-maker, you can’t let the emotion of that one outing blur the big picture... I wholeheartedly appreciate what fans say, and the critics. But I think he had a bad game; he’s not a bad quarterback.”[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
HC John Fox is noted for his loyalty to veteran players, so it is no surprise to see him defend Delhomme against his critics. However, it is worth noting that the team and Delhomme are in talks to extend his contract - it looks like the Panthers' offense will enjoy stability at the key QB position during 2009. On Thursday, Delhomme's agent denied that negotiations were underway, however, so there are conflicting versions of what is going on regarding Delhomme's contract. Stay tuned.
DEN - HC McDaniels Comments on His Crowded RB Stable
Source: Mike Klis, Denver Post
"One of the most difficult positions to play in this league anymore is the third-down back because of all the crazy looks you get from the defense and the blitzing that goes on," McDaniels said at the NFL owners meetings. "That's how you protect your quarterback against all these crazy looks that are going on, and they're just going to get crazier."...
..."I think we're all finding out each year how important it is to have multiple backs," McDaniels said. "Denver found out last year. We found out the same year. We were playing with BenJarvus Green-Ellis for three, four games there in the middle of the year as our starter. Originally, he was on our practice squad. So we've all found out that at that position, you better have as many as you can because that position gets hit on every play."[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Unfortunately for fantasy players, Josh McDaniel's comments indicate that his approach to free agency (signing Correll Buckhalter, LaMont Jordan and J.J. Arrington) was all about finding a reliable 3rd-down back. He doesn't appear to intend to "feature" any one of the players, which means that the dreaded running-back-by-committee may be Denver's plan going forward into 2009. There may not be a "Bronco Back" this year, but instead many backs playing defined roles.
NYJ - QB Situation Unsettled - Key Minicamp April 16-18
Source: Jim Trotter, SI.com
Rex Ryan is the son of Buddy, the former longtime NFL coach who was known for his straight talk and never-back-down attitude. So it came as little surprise this week when the younger Ryan was ready for some verbal sparring when it came to questions about his quarterback situation with the Jets.
"Everybody seems to think that we have major issues at that position," Ryan said at the owners meetings at the St. Regis. "I don't think the situation is what people think it is. I think we're going to be just fine." Mind you, the two guys competing for the job since Brett Favre retired are Kellen Clemens, who has eight career starts, and Brett Ratliff, who has never played in an NFL game. (A third, Eric Ainge, is thought to be a long shot.) Combined, they have three career wins. Yet Ryan believes a strong offensive line, a productive running game, a couple of capable pass catchers and solid coaching will be enough to silence critics. Perhaps he's right. But Trotter says he's told that even though Ryan says one thing, he is not as firm in his conviction as he'd have you believe. One of the big things for him will be an April 16-18 minicamp, which falls the week before the draft. Ryan wants to see how Clemens and Ratliff perform, how they command the huddle, how their teammates respond to them.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
It appears that Clemens and Ratliffe will have a lot riding on their performance in mini-camp right before the NFL Draft. With Jerricho Cotchery and Dustin Keller running routes as primary targets, the Jets' signal caller has a good shot at a productive NFL season - it remains to be seen who that signal caller will be...
CLE - WR Stallworth Accident Update
Source: ESPN.com, AP report
A pedestrian wasn't in a crosswalk when Cleveland Browns wide receiver Donte Stallworth hit and killed him with his Bentley, according to a report released Tuesday by police in Miami Beach.
According to the report, Stallworth told officers he flashed his lights to try to warn 59-year-old Mario Reyes, a construction crane operator who was rushing to catch a bus after getting off work around 7:15 a.m. March 14. Police said Stallworth was driving about 50 mph in a 40 mph zone. They are investigating whether alcohol played a role in the accident. No charges have been filed against Stallworth pending the outcome of blood tests.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
There has been a lot of speculation about how this horrible situation is going to play out for Stallworth, but the bottom line right now is that we don't know what role, if any, alcohol consumption played in the tragic accident. Until the toxicology information becomes public or charges are filed, everyone is just guessing regarding the true circumstances. Stay tuned...
WAS - #3 WR Contested Entering 2009
Source: Jason La Canfora, Washington Post
...let's look at the slugfest that features Malcolm Kelly, Devin Thomas and James Thrash duking it out to be the No. 3 wide receiver. It may well be that there is no competition; Thomas and Kelly could struggle just to stay on the field with any consistency -- Kelly for health reasons and Thomas for just being Thomas -- but maybe that will change for both of them in the next few months.
Kelly was drafted with this slot in mind; he was to be a big, chain-moving wide receiver who could make things happen in the red zone. Although some members of the medical staff advised against taking Kelly because of his knee issues, he was drafted and continues to have problems. He is coming off another knee surgery now and hasn't been cleared to take part in the offseason program. Getting a late start again won't help Kelly and it's difficult to imagine the knee concerns not hanging over him for a while. Still, Kelly is a talented player. The question is whether he can become healthy enough to show off that talent on a regular basis. Pencil him in with caution at this crucial position. Thomas was the kind of pick that, according to scouts, could either be a home run if he matured, or a strikeout. The fact that he did not show for the start of voluntary offseason work last week could cast another shadow over the kid and fuel the coaching staff's healthy skepticism. He needs to come to Redskins Park ready and eager to work all day, coming to grips with the fact that nothing he did in college matters now. He's a guy who, on pure merit and production alone last year, was not an NFL-caliber wide receiver and inspired no confidence from his teammates. He must focus on learning the playbook and route running as well as improving his work ethic and attitude. Maybe he will turn it around. Unlike Kelly, Thomas has the power to fix his problems. If he does get on the field more often, he would not be a traditional No. 3, as Antwaan Randle El would move back to the slot. Thomas is a speed guy, an outside burner in the mold of Brandon Lloyd. He is a vertical threat to stretch things, open it up underneath, take some heat off Santana Moss as the only real deep guy on the roster.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
There was a lot of excitement over Thomas and Kelly after last year's draft, but neither guy really panned out in year one. We'll see if either guy lives up to his potential in 2009, but we're not holding our breath over the #3 WR in Washington. However, if either Moss or Randle El misses time during 2009, one of these guys would get the opportunity to step into the starting lineup - given how common injuries are in the NFL, it's worth keeping your eye on the battle for #3 in Washington in case the opportunity to scoop up a low profile starting WR comes your way during 2009.
KC - Chiefs to Keep TE Gonzalez; Less Committed to RB Johnson, OG Waters
Source: Adam Teicher, Kansas City Star
Tony Gonzalez appears likely to finish his playing career with the Chiefs. Larry Johnson and Brian Waters could receive their publicly stated wishes to finish theirs elsewhere.
Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt said Monday during a break at the NFL meetings that the Chiefs had decided to hold on to Gonzalez, their longtime Pro Bowl tight end. Hunt also said decisions regarding Johnson and Waters haven’t been made but added that either or both could return to play for the Chiefs this season. “It’s still my hope Larry will be a part of this team next season,” Hunt said. “We all saw the comments he made at the end of the season and repeated about a month later. Those were disappointing. Recently, I’ve heard he’s excited about being a Kansas City Chief again and expects to be in the offseason program and help us be successful.” But Hunt declined to say the Chiefs will not seek to trade Johnson. “That’s a decision (general manager Scott Pioli and coach Todd Haley) will have to make, and I think it’s probably too early to even ask them where they stand,” Hunt said. “They need to spend some time with Larry and figure out how he fits in.”[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Dynasty owners of TE Tony Gonzalez have the comfort of knowing that Gonzalez is still a big part of the Chiefs' plans for 2009 - however, owners of RB Larry Johnson are up in the air as of late March. We'll see how the roster unfolds as mini-camps progress and the new front office makes over the Chiefs' roster - Johnson could be a hot fantasy property if he is moved on to another team with a better attack. We'll keep a close eye on this developing situation and you should too.
DEN - RB Buckhalter Allegedly Involved in Marijuana Buy
Source: ESPN.com, AP report
An alleged drug dealer in suburban Philadelphia testified that he did not sell marijuana to Denver Broncos running back Correll Buckhalter.
That contradicts the word of a state trooper, who testified Thursday that he was listening on wiretaps when Buckhalter called the suspect, 36-year-old Styles Beckles of Clifton Heights. Trooper Scott John Miscannon also says a notation on a ledger in Beckles' house indicates Buckhalter bought marijuana from him. Beckles is on trial in Delaware County on charges of drug possession and intent to deliver drugs. A prosecutor says Beckles initially admitted selling marijuana to Buckhalter. Buckhalter, a former Philadelphia Eagle, denies buying drugs from Beckles. He has not been charged.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
What is it with Denver RB's and drug deals? Remember Travis Henry?. Anyway, right now, it doesn't look like Buckhalter is going to be charged, but there is definitely some smoke rising from this story. It's not clear if there is a fire yet, but be advised that Buckhalter could be at risk for league sanctions during 2009 if the state trooper is on target with his testimony.
ARI - WR Boldin, Team in Contract Extension Talks; QB Warner and QB Leinart Updates
Source: NFL.com, Vic Carucci
Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt sounds as if he’s expecting disgruntled wide receiver Anquan Boldin to be with the team next season, pointing out that he has two years left on his contract.
“We’ve said all along Anquan is a very important part of our organization and football team,” Whisenhunt said during this morning’s NFC coaches-media breakfast at the league meetings. “And we’re working to get a new contract with him based on the level he’s played for us.” Here’s a sampling of what else the coach of the defending NFC champions had to say: On Kurt Warner’s arthroscopic hip surgery: “Kurt’s doing well. He’s excited about having this done and being able to play pain free. He felt like he could have still played with what he was playing with but this is a situation where it will only make things better.” On Matt Leinart accepting the backup role now that Warner is signed for two more seasons: “My discussions with Matt, especially since we’ve re-signed Kurt, have been very positive, very mature. Matt expressed to me how much he learned this past season and how much he improved. I think it’s unrealistic to think one quarterback in this league is going to last a whole year. In my discussions with Matt, we’ve talked about that. I believe that having played with Kurt last year and having seen Kurt play at the level he did, certainly helped Matt learn what it takes to be successful in this league.”[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
If the Cardinals and Boldin can agree to a new deal, it would be a further boost to the entire offense. It remains to be seen if a new deal will happen, but it's good to see the sides communicating. It's also a positive to hear that Warner's recovery is on track.
BUF - Unconfirmed Rumor - WR Owens Driving Drunk?
Source: Allen Wilson, Buffalo News
Being a big celebrity like Terrell Owens puts you in the spotlight whether you want it or not.
Case in point was a report on the website, TheDirty.com. It reports that Owens left the MYNT Nightclub in Miami at 3:45 a.m. Saturday after partying with some fellow NFL players. Driving his yellow Spyder CanAm (a three-wheel motorcycle) a few blocks, Owens was pulled over by the Miami Beach Police. Witnesses said Owens was given a field sobriety test (but no breathalyzer test) and then offered the officers his signature before hopping back on his bike and drove away. According to the website, witnesses in and outside the nightclub said Owens was visibly drunk and should not have been able to pass a sobriety test. The site also stated that a nightclub employee said Owens had a bottle of Grey Goose vodka all to himself and a worker at the hotel Owens was staying at claimed he was hammered when he arrived. Now we don't know if any of this is true. But this just shows the type of news T.O. makes.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
I feel a little dirty for even having this blurb in the update but since the Buffalo News ran it, I'm passing it along. Note that this is an unconfirmed rumor, and that the officers on the scene didn't see fit to issue a citation. Just something to file away on the back burner.
BUF - WR Owens Skips First Voluntary Workout With Bills
Source: NFL.com Staff
Terrell Owens signed a one-year deal with the Bills for a second, third, another chance. Then he promptly skipped the Bills first voluntary workout of the season. And there’s the rub. The Bills’ workout was voluntary, but the need to repair his image is not.
Then again, maybe there is no way T.O. can repair his image. And maybe he could get a better workout in his driveway. Still, coach Dick Jauron was hopeful that Owens would be there at some point. “Terrell in the past has not been involved in all of those things,” Jauron said recently when asked if Owens would be in attendance. “My hope is that he’s here. He knows how important it is for us, particularly in his first year with us.”[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
We were hoping that Owens would get off on the right foot with his new team - but it looks like he'll keep us in suspense for a while longer. This is one of the items that could be no big deal (veterans often skip voluntary sessions, especially this early in the pre-season), or it could be a sign of things to come.
Owens commented on his absence. To see the story, click here. He said, "I talked to coach Jauron prior to the start of the workouts about that," Owens said, according to the report. "Right now if there's nothing mandatory that I have to be a part of, then I won't intend to be there." Owens said he expects to attend the Bills' minicamp in June and could possibly work out with his new teammates at other some point in the offseason. But when it comes to staying in shape, T.O. prefers to do things his way, on his own. "I've never gone to a voluntary workout," Owens said, according to USA Today. "I have a personal trainer. I take very good care of myself. I take pride in coming into camp in shape. "If I'm in the area, I tend to stop by the facilities and work out with the guys. You know, I'm looking forward to that type of stuff."DEF - GB Injury Updates on LB Barnett, DE Jenkins, DE Justin Harrell and OT Tauscher
Source: Tom Silverstein, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinal
The Green Bay Packers have interest in re-signing right tackle Mark Tauscher, but the time it will take him to get back to full strength might force them to move in a different direction.
Coach Mike McCarthy said during a break at the NFL owners meetings that he had been in regular contact with Tauscher, who had been rehabilitating a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee at the Packers' facility until leaving for NFL Players Association meetings last week in Hawaii. He said Tauscher, an unrestricted free agent, had been working hard to get himself ready for the 2009 season. But the recovery time for that kind of injury is eight to 10 months and that would put his return sometime into the regular season. At some point well before that, the Packers would have to move forward and prepare to replace him as their starting right tackle. "It's a medical condition. What (was) it, Week 12, Week 13?" McCarthy said of the injury, which occurred against the Houston Texans on Dec. 7. "It's a late injury. You do the math, and you're looking Oct. 1 (at his return). That's what the math tells you. "Mark would probably tell you differently because he feels great. He's attacked his rehab and he's in there every day. We'll see what happens. Leadership-wise, you can't say enough great things about him. It's a medical condition that's going to make for a tough decision."... McCarthy gave updates on three players the Packers are monitoring closely as they recover from major injuries: linebacker Nick Barnett, defensive end Cullen Jenkins and defensive end/tackle Justin Harrell. Barnett suffered a torn ACL in his right knee on Nov. 11 and is ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation. He is spending part of the off-season in Arizona with his family, but McCarthy said his work away from the facility had been good. "We're encouraged with him," McCarthy said. "I saw him in the weight room Thursday and Friday. He's going back, and they feel very good about where he's at." Jenkins, who suffered a torn pectoral muscle on Sept. 28, is still battling the effects of surgery. He is also rehabilitating from arthroscopic surgery on his left ankle. The chest injury is the main issue. "He looks good," McCarthy said. "He can't do everything right now. Some of it has lingered. Everyone is excited he got it fixed and they feel confident about it. If he's ready earlier (than training camp), it will be a bonus." Harrell, who missed most of last season with a back injury suffered while lifting weights, isn't cleared to do everything but has not been slowed by pain. His true test won't come until he practices in pads. "He's got a smile on his face," McCarthy said. "He's pain-free so far. You could probably point to training camp for most of these guys."[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
Regarding the offensive line, it looks like the Packers may be contemplating re-tooling their lineup. Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson could take a hit in value if the new guys don't jell - keep an eye on who the Packers bring into camps and how the OL chemistry is shaping up later this summer.
The news on the defensive players is encouraging - IDP owners will want to monitor Barnett's recovery in particular.DEF - NYG DE Umenyiora "Left Knee is at 99%"
Source: SI.com, AP report
If Justin Tuck had concerns about Osi Umenyiora coming back from knee surgery, they ended the first day the two entered the weight room for the New York Giants' voluntary offseason program.
Umenyiora promptly declared he was the stronger man. Tuck laughs telling the story, knowing that's how the defensive linemen push themselves, by challenging each other. When asked who really was stronger, Tuck admitted it was Umenyiora, at least for now. "He calls himself the king right now, and me the prince," Tuck said Tuesday after the Giants held another voluntary practice at Giants Stadium. "But he has had six months of training and I had six months of being beat up." Looking at Umenyiora, there is no doubt that he's happy to be back at work. The defensive end tore the lateral meniscus in his left knee in a preseason game against the Jets, sidelining him for the year. He said Tuesday his knee is at 99 percent and he will be ready for the start of training camp in July.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The return of Umenyiora to the Giants' already stout defense (the Giants were 5th in the NFL last year in terms of yards allowed per game, with an average of 292 yards given up per contest) will make the G-men's D even more dreaded during 2009. IDP owners who did without Umenyiora last year will be happy to get him back in their lineups during 2009, assuming his assessment of his knee's health is on target.
NFL - Commissioner Goodell Hopeful That a New CBA Will Be in Place by Next March
Source: Sean Leahy, USA Today
...commissioner Roger Goodell said Monday he expects a new deal will be in place before next March, when the salary cap is set to expire."I don't believe that will be the case," Goodell said when asked about the possibilities in an uncapped season in 2010. Owners opted out of the current CBA last year, which will trigger the end of the salary cap if no new deal is reached before next March.
Owners' priorities in the negotiations will include having the costs for building and operating stadiums recognized by the players and instituting a salary cap for rookies, Goodell said in a news conference at the NFL's annual meeting in Dana Point, Calif. There is no timetable yet for when negotiations on a new CBA will begin. Goodell met with new NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith Friday for the first time.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The clock is ticking on the league's labor peace, and we're hopeful that neither side will want to "kill the golden goose" with a strike or a lockout. That said, though, there is a lot of tough negotiating ahead and you'll be hearing a lot more about these talks during the next 12 months. Cross your fingers and hope for the best, NFL Fans. Let's see if the parties involved are smart enough to not kill the golden goose trying to squeeze more golden eggs out for themselves.
TEN, PIT - Steelers/Titans to Clash in Thursday Season Opener September 10th
Source: Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The Steelers will open the 2009 NFL season with a game against the Tennessee Titans on Thursday, September 10th.
The game, which the NFL will officially announce later today, is the traditional first-game of the kickoff weekend. The Super Bowl winner traditionally hosts the season's first game on Thursday night. It will air on TV on NBC.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
It's only March, but we're ready for September 10th to be here already. I'm obviously biased but I don't think any other leagues kicks off their season as well as the NFL. Tennessee vs. Pittsburgh looks like a great matchup between two AFC powerhouses.
Source: ESPN.com, AP Report
The federal Department of Labor is accusing imprisoned NFL star Michael Vick of illegally withdrawing more than $1.3 million from a pension plan.
The department filed complaints Wednesday against Vick in federal district and bankruptcy courts in Newport News. Vick attorney Mark Lichtenstein declined to comment on the complaints. The department says Vick made a series of prohibited transfers from a pension plan sponsored by MV7, a celebrity marketing company owned by the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback. The department alleges that Vick violated his duties as trustee of a pension plan that covered nine current or former MV7 employees. "This action sends a message that the Labor Department will not tolerate the misuse of plan money and will take whatever steps necessary to recover the assets owed to eligible workers," Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis said in a prepared statement. The department also accused two of Vick's former financial advisers, Mary R. Wong and David A. Talbot, of participating in some of the transfers. The filing further complicates Vick's bankruptcy case, which has gradually moved along in Newport News while Vick serves a 23-month prison term in the federal penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kan. The judge presiding over the bankruptcy case has ordered Vick to testify in person at next week's hearing on confirmation of his Chapter 11 plan.[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
The hits just keep coming for Vick - he's not even out of prison yet and a new federal case is looming over him.
At the NFL's winter meeting, commissioner Roger Goodell commented on Vick's possible reinstatement. To see the story, click here. "I'm not going to make a judgment until I know all the facts on Michael Vick," Goodell said Wednesday at the league's winter meetings, according to USA Today. "I think it's clear he's paid a price, but to a large extent he's going to have to demonstrate to the larger community -- not just to the NFL community and to me -- that he has remorse for what he did and that he recognizes mistakes that he made." "Everyone makes mistakes, but he has to show that genuine remorse in his ability to be a positive influence to correct the things that he did wrong publicly," he added, according to the report.NFL - Commissioner Goodell Wants 1 or 2 More Regular Season Games
Source: Yahoo.com, AP Report by Bernie Wilson
Roger Goodell is ready to trade one or two meaningless August games for an equal number of games that count.
In favor of expanding the regular season from 16 to 17 or 18 games, the NFL commissioner hopes to present a proposal to the owners in May after the matter was discussed at length this week at the owners meetings. “It’s possible that we could vote in May, but we want to have core discussions on this,” Goodell said Wednesday. “Anytime you have change, there is some reluctance. But it’s clear we don’t need four preseason games anymore.” There are several hurdles before the league can expand its regular season, including reaching a new collective bargaining agreement with the players’ union. Goodell said the league has not seriously discussed the subject with its broadcast partners. He couldn’t imagine them not being interested in more meaningful games. “I think the quality of NFL programming, that every one of our network partners would say, if they have the chance to have more regular-season programming, they’d be interested in it,” Goodell said. “A key point is the fans also recognize players they want to see are not in those preseason games; that’s why they are not attractive. They want to see those players play.”[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]
More games would mean a longer fantasy football season and more fun for fantasy players and fans everywhere - what's not to like?
The report goes on to note that commissioner Goodell is in favor of an off-season developmental league, but not on the model of NFL Europe. The emphasis would be on developing players, not creating a viable "second league". The idea is pretty nebulous right now, but it could mean football fans would get some sort of spring pro football to watch.That'll do it for this week, Folks. Have a great weekend and we'll see you next Friday with another recap of the week's stories.
J