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| Williams slowed by Achillies injury | Wednesday 5/28, 8:07 PM CT |
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Demetrius Williams has been slowed by an Achilles tendon injury in minicamps, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Our View: Williams has some deep sleeper potential, so it's certainly worth tracking his recovery. At this point this doesn't appear to be anything serious. |
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| Smith outplaying other quarterbacks | Wednesday 5/28, 8:05 PM CT |
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Troy Smith has outplayed all other quarterbacks on the Ravens roster during minicamps, according to the Baltimore Sun. "I really love his confidence, because he believes there is nothing that he can't do playing the quarterback position," quarterbacks coach Hue Jackson said.
Our View: Coach John Harbaugh has said no one is going to win a position battle during minicamps, but Smith has at least showed so far that he deserves the starting job over Kyle Boller and Joe Flacco. |
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| Rice to start opposite Berrian | Wednesday 5/28, 6:23 PM CT |
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Sidney Rice is expected to start opposite Bernard Berrian this year, according to KSTP-TV. The second-year receiver put on about eight pounds this offseason and hopes to break out this season. "I've got a lot of confidence in myself this year," Rice said. "And also in the playbook, being on top of my game."
Our View: Rice caught four TD passes last year in his rookie season. If he had anyone but Tarvaris Jackson throwing him passes, we might like him to bust out, but don't inflate your expectations. |
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| Dolphins release Perry | Wednesday 5/28, 5:59 PM CT |
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The Dolphins released Tab Perry Wednesday, four days after he suffered a torn Achilles tendon, according to SportsTicker.
Our View: Perry won't play this season, and with this type of injury, you have to think his career is in jeopardy. |
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| Taylor not in hurry to join Dolphins | Wednesday 5/28, 4:51 PM CT |
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Jason Taylor doesn't appear to be in a hurry to join the Dolphins anytime soon. "I'm under contract with the Dolphins. So again, I'm looking forward to playing some golf. Football doesn't start until July and training camp, so I'll be all right," Taylor told the AP Wednesday after playing in a charity golf tournament. "I've been in L.A. and so far removed from it. Like I said, I'll deal with that when I get there." Taylor said his immediate plans are to work out, play golf and relax at home. He avoided questions about whether he plans to meet with Bill Parcells anytime soon.
Our View: Taylor desperately wants out of South Beach, and the Dolphins appear to be willing to move him, but so far they haven't had an offer better than a fourth-round draft pick for the defensive end, which they have deemed unsatisfactory. |
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| Grimes making an impression | Wednesday 5/28, 4:29 PM CT |
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Second-year cornerback Brent Grimes has impressed the Atlanta coaching staff in OTAs. Assistant head coach Emmitt Thomas told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that Grimes was probably the best athlete on the team and that experience is the only thing holding.
Our View: Grimes has a chance to take over for the departed DeAngelo Hall at left cornerback. He's on the small side, so bigger receivers could be problem, but the Shippensburg State product is certainly making an impression thus far. |
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| Pacman to be reinstated Thursday | Wednesday 5/28, 4:24 PM CT |
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RotoTimes.com sources have learned that Pacman Jones will be reinstated by the NFL Thursday afternoon. Jones missed all of the 2007 season while under suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy.
Our View: We figured it was just a matter of time before Pacman was given the green light. He'll provide a big boost to Dallas' secondary and special teams. |
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| Robinson looking good in OTAs | Wednesday 5/28, 4:22 PM CT |
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Laurent Robinson keeps making a positive impression in OTAs, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The second-year wideout could start opposite Roddy White, who, as the AJC notes, is very similar to Robinson in terms of size and speed.
Our View: Robinson had a solid rookie campaign last year on an awful Atlanta team, and you could do worse than take a late-round flyer on him. |
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| Jones explains Glenn's absence | Wednesday 5/28, 4:15 PM CT |
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Cowboys owner Jerry Jones explained to the Dallas Morning News the absence of Terry Glenn from OTAs this week. "I'm very encouraged, he's improved from where he was in the last ballgame," Jones said. "He's made a lot of progress. And I do think if he keeps making the progress -- he's very strong, very quick and we want to get his timing down with Tony -- but as far as the work out here, he doesn't necessarily need the work."
Our View: Glenn is coming back from a pair of knee surgeries, and recent reports on him have been very positive, so you shouldn't get too worked up over him not participating in OTAs. |
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| Spencer impresses at OTAs | Wednesday 5/28, 3:34 PM CT |
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Linebacker Anthony Spencer received extra repetitions during the Dallas Cowboys’ organized team activities, and had about as good a practice as possible without pads on, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Spencer, the 2007 first-round pick who has bulked up to 260 pounds, no longer has to think his way through his steps at outside linebacker. His transition from college defensive end is complete to the point where he's reacting on the field. Unfortunately, he has DeMarcus Ware and Greg Ellis ahead of him on the depth chart, which puts a major hurt on his IDP value. |
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| Bolts not interested in Taylor | Wednesday 5/28, 3:21 PM CT |
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If you had any questions about the San Diego Chargers' interest in defensive end Jason Taylor, scratch them from your thoughts immediately, according to ESPN. The Chargers aren’t looking for a starting outside linebacker. Plus, they are already down a second-round choice in 2009 from a draft-day trade.
Our View: The Dolphins still haven't had an offer better than a fourth-round draft pick for the former NFL defensive MVP. |
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| Tucker expected back in August | Wednesday 5/28, 3:21 PM CT |
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Right guard Ryan Tucker is expected to return to the field sometime in August, head coach Romeo Crennel tells the team's official web site. The lineman suffered a non-displaced fracture in his hip earlier this month and underwent surgery on May 17.
Our View: Tucker started eight games in 2007, and he fit in well after moving from right tackle. He is expected to be ready for Week 1, but if not, the Browns have a veteran backup option in Rex Hadnot. |
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| Taylor remains away | Wednesday 5/28, 3:16 PM CT |
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Chester Taylor remains away from voluntary workouts, but head coach Brad Childress says the running back will join the club on Monday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Our View: Taylor hasn't been around for a couple weeks, but we're not too worried. He remains a valuable fantasy handcuff to stud Adrian Peterson. |
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| Edwards not practicing | Wednesday 5/28, 3:14 PM CT |
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Braylon Edwards remains out of action as of May 28, but he's away for personal reasons, the team's official web site reports. He injured his hip flexor on May 20 and has not practiced since that time. He will take the field when he rejoins the team, though.
Our View: This news simply confirms that the ailment wasn't serious. Edwards' injury was overshadowed, as Daven Holly ruined his knee on the same play. |
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| Jurevicius running | Wednesday 5/28, 3:11 PM CT |
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Joe Jurevicius has begun running following knee surgery and should be ready for training camp, head coach Romeo Crennel informs the team's official web site.
Our View: Jurevicius doesn't have much fantasy value, but he gives the Browns quality depth behind Braylon Edwards and Donte Stallworth. |
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| Pacman’s home in foreclosure | Wednesday 5/28, 3:03 PM CT |
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Fox 17 News has learned that cornerback Pacman Jones' home recently went into foreclosure. Jones' attorney Worrick Robinson says it's another example of the money problems Pacman is experiencing because of his NFL suspension. "He has not played football in 18 months or so. That was his primary source of income that's why it's very important to him to be reinstated and get back on the field," said Robinson.
Our View: Pacman just can't seem to keep his name out of the news. |
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| Bucs considering extension for Phillips | Wednesday 5/28, 2:55 PM CT |
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are considering a contract extension for safety Jermaine Phillips, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Our View: Phillips is a ball-hawking safety, that has posted six interceptions, to go along with 154 solo tackles and two sacks over the past two seasons. |
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| Otah held out of team drills | Wednesday 5/28, 2:27 PM CT |
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It was anticipated the Carolina Panthers would have rookie offensive tackle Jeff Otah back for this week’s mini-camp, but the team’s first-round draft pick didn’t participate on Wednesday as he continues to nurse a high ankle sprain, according to the Gaston Gazette.
Our View: Otah, who is listed as day-to-day, exercised on the sideline but it’s unknown when the medical staff will clear him for team drills. |
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| Bowman to participate in CFL rookie camp | Wednesday 5/28, 2:19 PM CT |
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Adarius Bowman will participate in the Saskatchewan Roughriders' rookie camp, according to the Regina Leader-Post.
Our View: Bowman was a virtual lock to be selected in the 2008 NFL draft until he was convicted of misdemeanor possession of marijuana in April. During the last two seasons at Oklahoma State, Bowman posted 127 receptions for 2,187 yards and 20 touchdowns. |
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| Gutierrez pushing Cassel | Wednesday 5/28, 2:06 PM CT |
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Matt Gutierrez appears primed to threaten Matt Cassel for the No. 2 quarterback job behind Tom Brady, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: Besides throwing a nice ball with apparent ease, Gutierrez continues to display a strong work ethic. He was the last player off the field, staying late to work with tight end Stephen Spach, and also the first player to finish in the end-of-practice sprints (along with OLB Vince Redd). |
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| Jets not interested in Colvin | Wednesday 5/28, 1:58 PM CT |
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The New York Jets are not interested in signing linebacker Rosevelt Colvin, according to the New York Daily News. There was a report yesterday that Colvin had advised Sirius Radio that the Jets and Cleveland Browns were interested in his services.
Our View: According to head coach Eric Mangini, the team hasn’t brought in Colvin for a workout. And the Jets are pretty deep at outside linebacker with Calvin Pace, rookie Vernon Gholston, Bryan Thomas and David Bowens on the depth chart. |
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| Mangini likes Smith’s versatility | Wednesday 5/28, 1:52 PM CT |
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When asked about the acquisition of running back Musa Smith, head coach Eric Mangini immediately mentioned his special teams prowess, according to the New York Daily News.
Our View: Thomas Jones is the primary back with Leon Washington the favorite to reprise his third down, change-of-pace role. Jesse Chatman and Musa Smith will likely battle for scraps in the running game.
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| Pennington struggles during OTAs | Wednesday 5/28, 1:45 PM CT |
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Quarterback Chad Pennington struggled during passing drills at the New York Jets organized team activities, according to the New York Daily News.
Our View: In a passing drill (with no defenders), Pennington came up well short on a 15-yard ‘out’ route. Moments later, he bounced a 20-yard out and, perhaps overcompensating, badly overthrew his next pass, another 20-yard out, to receiver Laveranues Coles. It's still early in the process, but not the kind of update you want to hear, especially considering there was no pass rush in his face. |
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| Jones displaying improvement | Wednesday 5/28, 1:38 PM CT |
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Quarterback Matt Schaub sees a noticeable difference in wide receiver Jacoby Jones' footwork and ability to adjust routes during the offseason practice sessions, according to the Houston Chronicle. "Jacoby's made a huge step," Schaub said. "He's more mature. Last year, his head was spinning a little bit, like any rookie's would be, but he's really on top of his stuff, and he's catching the ball. He's confident in what he's doing and having a great camp."
Our View: Jones has the size, speed and raw athletic ability to be an explosive performer in Houston. He will be engaged in a battle with Andre Davis for the slot role, but his upside potential is unlimited if he can keep his head screwed on straight. |
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| Thomas participates in passing camp | Wednesday 5/28, 1:14 PM CT |
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The New England Patriots have concluded their passing camp practice today, and the presence of tight end David Thomas was notable, according to the Boston Globe. Thomas missed most of last season with a broken leg.
Our View: Thomas, who participated in some drills but not all of them, will complete with free agent Marcus Pollard in training camp for the right to backup starter Ben Watson. |
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| Weiner still sidelined | Wednesday 5/28, 1:02 PM CT |
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Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Todd Weiner, who is recovering from major knee surgery, has not been cleared to do any running or similar activity, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Weiner had hoped to be doing some light jogging by now.
Our View: General Manager Thomas Dimitroff said he thinks Weiner will be healthy by the start of training camp in late July. |
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| Shockley medically cleared | Wednesday 5/28, 12:58 PM CT |
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Atlanta Falcons quarterback D.J. Shockley has been medically cleared to take part in all football-related activities and even ran some sets with the first-team offense at Wednesday's offseason workouts, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Shockley tore ligaments in his left knee in a preseason game at Buffalo that caused him to miss all of last season.
Our View: Chris Redman is currently the No. 1 quarterback with rookie Matt Ryan, Joey Harrington and Shockley working as backups. |
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| Sauerbrun accepts plea bargain | Wednesday 5/28, 12:35 PM CT |
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Former Denver Broncos punter Todd Sauerbrun pleaded guilty Wednesday to disturbing the peace in a confrontation with a taxi driver last December and was sentenced to perform 24 hours of community service, according to ESPN.
Our View: Sauerbrun said he took the plea to avoid a lengthy trial so that he could get on with his life and pursue a free agent job with another team. The Broncos cut him shortly after his arrest on Dec. 7. An assault charge was dismissed as part of the deal. |
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| Celek close to full health | Wednesday 5/28, 12:34 PM CT |
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Brent Celek is close to 100 percent following offseason shoulder surgery, the team's official web site notes.
Our View: Celek is still being groomed to potentially take over for L.J. Smith, who is working under the franchise tag. As long as Smith is around and healthy, Celek has no fantasy value. |
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| Rudi returns to action | Wednesday 5/28, 12:32 PM CT |
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Rudi Johnson was back in action on Wednesday's voluntary practice session, the Cincinnati Enquirer reports. He missed some time the previous week for unknown reasons.
Our View: Rudi has previously said that last year's hamstring issues are behind him, but we prefer to see it before believing. Johnson will get a shot at being the Bengals workhorse again in 2008, and he'll climb up fantasy boards if he looks good this summer. |
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| Wright sharing reps with Omon | Wednesday 5/28, 12:25 PM CT |
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At the running back position in Buffalo it appears there's a budding competition for the third tailback role between Dwayne Wright and rookie Xavier Omon, according to BuffaloBills.com. The two running backs appear to be getting close to the same number of snaps during each practice in recent organized team activities.
Our View: Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson are entrenched on the top two rungs of the depth chart. Omon, a Division II phenom, has excellent vision and is a good receiver out of the backfield.
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| Sauerbrun trial starts today | Wednesday 5/28, 12:09 PM CT |
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Former Denver Broncos punter Todd Sauerbrun is scheduled to go on trial today in Denver County Court on charges stemming from an altercation with a taxi driver last December, according to the Rocky Mountain News. Saul Cast accused Sauerbrun of smacking him in the back of the head, and verbally abusing him after he picked up the punter in his Metro Taxi outside the Ocean bar in Cherry Creek.
Our View: In February, Sauerbrun, 35, pleaded not guilty to charges of assault and disturbing the peace. He told the Rocky Mountain News that he never touched Cast, whom he said was "looking for a payday." |
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| McGahee shows up | Wednesday 5/28, 11:58 AM CT |
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Willis McGahee arrived at the Ravens' OTA session on Wednesday and is participating, the Baltimore Sun reports. He skipped the prior OTA workouts.
Our View: It's a nice gesture by McGahee. For whatever reason, U of Miami guys tend to hang out in Florida rather than attend voluntary team workouts. |
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| Beason participating in OTAs | Wednesday 5/28, 11:42 AM CT |
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The Carolina Panthers first day of organized team activities commenced on Wednesday, and linebacker Jon Beason was back on the field participating fully, according to the Rock Hill Herald.
Our View: Beason had missed an earlier mini-camp after undergoing wrist surgery a few weeks ago. It was considered a minor procedure, and his participation in organized team activities is obviously a positive development in his recovery. |
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| Delhomme participating in team drills | Wednesday 5/28, 11:31 AM CT |
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The Panthers first day of optional workouts opened on Wednesday, and Jake Delhomme was taking snaps in team drills. Delhomme informs the AP that he is "mentally a little rusty," but his right elbow feels good. He underwent Tommy John surgery in October.
Our View: All reports about Delhomme's recovery continue to be positive. He is in line to be fully ready for training camp, and Jake remains the unquestioned starter as long as he is healthy. |
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| Pittman deal official | Wednesday 5/28, 11:28 AM CT |
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Michael Pittman officially signed with the Broncos after passing his physical on Wednesday, the SportsTicker reports.
Our View: At 32, Pittman's days of potentially starting are over, but he can still be a versatile veteran off the bench. He is the Broncos best receiving running back and could compete for a third-down role. |
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| Perry participating fully in practice | Wednesday 5/28, 11:25 AM CT |
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The Cincinnati Bengals are holding another offseason practice at this hour, and running back Chris Perry is participating fully, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Our View: Perry missed the entire 2007 season due to an ankle injury, and has struggled with injuries his entire career. The Bengals are hopeful he can provide some explosive plays as a change-of-pace threat on third downs in 2008. |
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| Stroud rejuvenated in Buffalo | Wednesday 5/28, 11:19 AM CT |
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Run to the ball is the philosophy of Buffalo defensive coordinator Perry Fewell, and defensive tackle Marcus Stroud is embracing the scheme, according to the Buffalo News. Stroud has been eagerly pursuing plays and running until the whistle blows during the Bills’ spring practices over the past week.
Our View: Stroud, who made the Pro Bowl from 2003-2005, has been hindered by ankle injuries during the past two seasons. If Stroud can stay healthy, his presence is expected to increase the IDP value of defensive end Aaron Schobel, who will face less double teams. |
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| Stewart sheds protective boot | Wednesday 5/28, 11:16 AM CT |
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Jonathan Stewart has shed the protective boot around his right foot. He underwent turf toe surgery in mid-March but is expected to be ready for training camp, the Charlotte Observer reports.
Our View: The Panthers are already talking about Stewart as a potential starter and kick returner, which seems like a lot for a guy coming off toe surgery. The Stewart-DeAngelo Williams split will be a hot topic this July and August. |
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| Rolle comfortable in new role | Wednesday 5/28, 11:01 AM CT |
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The Arizona Cardinals coaching staff is confident that switching Antrel Rolle from cornerback to safety could be one of the key moves of the off-season, according to the Arizona Republic. "As far as purely playing the safety position, he's looked very comfortable and very confident," head coach Ken Whisenhunt said.
Our View: Rolle has all the tools to succeed at free safety: He's a good tackler, has good instincts, runs well and has the ability to intercept passes and run with them afterward. As the team's third corner last year, he returned three interceptions for touchdowns, including two in one game. For those of you who participate in IDP leagues that heavily reward big plays, Rolle is a player to keep on your radar. |
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| Peterson could return kicks | Wednesday 5/28, 10:42 AM CT |
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Running back Adrian Peterson had only three kickoff returns in his final six games last season, but special-teams coordinator Paul Ferraro said he remains an option, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "Is he going to be the primary returner? Probably not," Ferraro said. "But he's going to be an option based on what's going on in the game and where we're at, and Adrian's into it, so it's not something we're forcing down his throat."
Our View: The Vikings have Maurice Hicks, Bobby Wade and Aundrae Allison, who can all return kicks, so we expect Peterson to be utilized only in spot duty, in order to keep him healthy for his primary job as a runner. |
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| Grant optimistic about negotiations | Wednesday 5/28, 10:30 AM CT |
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Running back Ryan Grant's contract talks hit a substantive stage late last week and left Grant's agent, Alan Herman, optimistic he and the Green Bay Packers can grind out a deal in the coming weeks, according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette.
Our View: Herman has said Grant won't sign the $370,000 minimum tender for a second-year pro. However, after a 1½-hour conversation with Packers negotiator Russ Ball late last week, Herman said the team is open to a long-term deal, though it will require major compromises by both sides. |
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| Gonzalez awaiting new baby | Wednesday 5/28, 10:30 AM CT |
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Tony Gonzalez left for California on Tuesday and will remain away from the team through the weekend. He has a good reason. Gonzalez and his wife are expecting the birth of their second child, a daughter, the Kansas City Star reports.
Our View: We suppose Gonzo has proven himself enough to take a little time off in May. This move seems a little selfish, though. (Yes, we're being sarcastic.) |
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| Kuper working at right tackle | Wednesday 5/28, 10:19 AM CT |
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Chris Kuper is currently atop the depth chart at right tackle for the Broncos, the Denver Post reports. The lineman started 11 games at left guard in 2007. Ryan Harris is his main competition at the tackle spot.
Our View: With Ben Hamilton back at left guard, Kuper had to try a new spot. We figured Harris would be ready for a starting job, and Kuper could have a good battle on his hands this summer. |
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| Lewis remains out | Wednesday 5/28, 10:16 AM CT |
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Marcedes Lewis remains out of practice. He hasn't participated in any of the activities this spring as he recovers from a knee injury, the Florida Times-Union reports.
Our View: Lewis is heading into his third year and has shown signs of being a productive fantasy tight end. We're not too worried about him missing time in May, but his stock will drop if he starts to look questionable for training camp. |
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| Ward to participate in mini-camp | Wednesday 5/28, 10:13 AM CT |
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Running back Derrick Ward’s broken leg he suffered back on Dec. 2 is fully healed, and expects to participate in the New York Giants mid-June minicamp, according to the Sporting News.
Our View: Ward will be brought along slowly up through training camp where he will likely be limited to one practice per day. He will compete with Ahmad Bradshaw for the right to be the primary backup to starter Brandon Jacobs. |
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| Henry hopes to return Monday | Wednesday 5/28, 10:12 AM CT |
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Travis Henry will miss the rest of this week due to a strained hamstring, the Denver Post reports. Head coach Mike Shanahan hopes Henry can return to action on Monday. "With those hamstrings, you don't know how long it's going to take," Shanahan explains. The Broncos open a team camp on Monday.
Our View: Henry remains atop the depth chart, but the situation in Denver is far from settled. Travis may have been able to solidify his spot with a strong summer. It's not going well thus far. |
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| Porter still gimpy | Wednesday 5/28, 10:07 AM CT |
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Jerry Porter continues to have issues with his ankle, although he practice for part of the day on Tuesday, the Florida Times-Union reports.
Our View: Other sources suggest Porter has dealt with Achilles and knee ailments this spring, while the Times-Union has stuck with ankle. Regardless, Porter is missing some good reps with David Garrard. It's too early in the offseason to be too worried, though. |
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| Westbrook, Booker in same backfield? | Wednesday 5/28, 10:06 AM CT |
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The Philadelphia coaching staff has discussed implementing formations featuring Lorenzo Booker and Brian Westbrook in the same backfield to keep opposing defenses guessing, according to the Sporting News.
Our View: Booker, who stayed in Philadelphia during the break between mini-camps to get more familiar with the playbook, is an intriguing handcuff for Westbrook owners this year. The addition of Booker also impacts Tony Hunt, who could be released unless he makes major strides during the offseason. |
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| Sampy injured during practice | Wednesday 5/28, 9:46 AM CT |
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Wide receiver Bill Sampy, who has spent the last two seasons on the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad, was carted off the field midway through practice with an ankle injury that appeared serious, according to PhillyBurbs.com.
Our View: Sampy, an undrafted free agent out of Louisiana Lafayette, got tangled up with cornerback Nick Graham during an otherwise routine pass play during the non-contact drill. A team spokesman said Sampy was examined after practice by team orthopedic physician Peter DeLuca but said the team had no comment on the severity of the injury. |
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| Johnson standing out in workouts | Wednesday 5/28, 9:26 AM CT |
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It's early and the Detroit Lions are wearing shorts, but wide receiver Calvin Johnson is already standing out in the team's workouts, according to the Sporting News. Johnson is returning from an injury-marred rookie season and is flashing some of his amazing skills. He is so fast, smooth and big that it's almost impossible to cover him downfield one-on-one.
Our View: The Lions will use plenty of short, quick passes to get Johnson and fellow receiver Roy Williams more involved this season, but they also will take shots downfield so corners can't sit on the short stuff. With Mike Martz gone, there will likely be less multiple receiver sets, which should mean additional targets for both Johnson and Williams in 2008. |
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| Barnidge in the mix to start | Wednesday 5/28, 9:14 AM CT |
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The Carolina Panthers haven't even started their organized team activities, but after one minicamp, it became apparent that fifth-round pick Gary Barnidge could make a run at the starting tight end job, according to the Sporting News. He is a smooth receiving threat, and shows that he can do something with the ball once he catches it, unlike some of the others on the depth chart.
Our View: Barnidge is adding some bulk to help with the on-the-move blocking responsibilities the team will ask of him, and definitely needs work in that area. Rookie tight ends rarely make an impact in their first season, but dynasty league owners should keep Barnidge on their radar. |
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| Breaston displaying improvement | Wednesday 5/28, 9:03 AM CT |
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Wide receiver Steve Breaston has added weight and muscle and is better able to beat press coverage off the line of scrimmage, according to the Sporting News. He has made an outstanding catch in almost every practice this spring, and it appears he will make a strong bid for the No. 3 job, in addition to his duties as a punt and kick returner.
Our View: If Breaston continues to emerge, he gives the team a speed receiver who can stretch the field. He will compete in training camp with rookie Early Doucet and veteran Jerheme Urban for the right to fill the slot role in Arizona. |
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| 49ers receiver corps update | Wednesday 5/28, 8:54 AM CT |
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It's too early to judge the San Francisco 49ers’ new receiving corps, but the early indication is that it's the best of the Mike Nolan era, according to the Sporting News. Isaac Bruce set the tone for his younger teammates with a businesslike mini-camp, while Bryant Johnson also looked good. The best competition will be for the No. 3 spot between Arnaz Battle, Ashley Lelie and Jason Hill.
Our View: The 49ers finished dead last in most of the important offensive categories last year, but there is renewed hope with the hiring of famed offensive coordinator Mike Martz. In early offseason mock drafts, both Bruce and Johnson are being selected in the 11th round range, which makes them solid value picks with nice upside in Martz’s scheme. |
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| NFL security investigating Allen | Wednesday 5/28, 8:32 AM CT |
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NFL security had Miami Dolphins cornerback Will Allen on its radar before he allegedly pulled a gun on a man in a dispute over money May 16 in Davie, according to the Palm Beach Post. The NFL had been alerted when a suspicious Detroit bank told the league of Allen's involvement in a large amount of money being wired to South Florida.
Our View: The Davie Police Department still is investigating the confrontation. The alleged victim said the argument was over money loaned to Allen to cover gambling debts; Allen contends the money was for an investment. Regardless of whether Allen is found guilty of a crime, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell could punish him if the league determines the debts were from gambling. |
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| Johnson owes property taxes | Wednesday 5/28, 8:13 AM CT |
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A review of property records shows Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson owes thousands of dollars in back taxes on his Cincinnati home, according to Channel 12 News.
Our View: The Hamilton County Auditor's Office says the NFL star hasn't paid a dime on his condo since he bought it in 2004. The auditor's office says Johnson owes more than $13,000 in taxes for his condo. He's delinquent $12,780. |
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| Williams present for OTAs | Wednesday 5/28, 8:07 AM CT |
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The Dallas Cowboys opened their second week of organized team activities Tuesday at Valley Ranch, and safety Roy Williams was on the field, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Williams was one of a handful of players, including fellow Pro Bowler Ken Hamlin, not at last week's workouts because he was on a family vacation. Williams has expressed concern about how he fits into the defense, but he had a productive meeting earlier this month with defensive coordinator Brian Stewart and assistant defensive backs coach Brett Maxie. |
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| Scheffler to lose boot next week | Wednesday 5/28, 8:00 AM CT |
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Team doctors will remove the boot from tight end Tony Scheffler's left foot next Monday, according to the Denver Post.
Our View: If he’s cleared to play, head coach Mike Shanahan said Scheffler would spend next week conditioning with hopes of returning to the practice field June 10, when the Broncos resume their final week of team camp. If doctors determine Scheffler needs more time to heal, he would remain sidelined at least until the team's final mini-camp, July 7-8. |
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| Pacman, Goodell talked last week | Wednesday 5/28, 7:53 AM CT |
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Suspended Dallas Cowboys’ cornerback Pacman Jones met with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell last week in Atlanta about his possible reinstatement to the league, according to the Dallas Morning Star. "For the most part, I think I should be all right," said Jones. "This year has been one of the hardest years in my life besides when my dad died. But it's also been a learning experience. I made a lot of bad decisions and thank God I'm getting a second chance."
Our View: Jones said he hopes to speak with Goodell at some point this week and get a decision about his return. Currently, he is not allowed to visit the Valley Ranch facility or take part in any team-organized training, but he's hopeful the league will allow him to participate in organized team activities this week at Valley Ranch. |
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