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NEWSBREAKERS NFL
Packers release ToledoWednesday 6/4, 11:26 PM CT
The Green Bay Packers have released offensive tackle Joe Toledo , according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

Our View: Toledo spent last season on the PUP list and struggled to overcome foot injuries. He was not a primary contributor, but teams in need of depth along the offensive line may give him a call.
Shockey set to rejoin GiantsWednesday 6/4, 9:49 PM CT
The New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey will be attending the team's mandatory minicamp next week, according to the NY Daily News.

Our View: Shockey spent this offseason publicly lobbying for a trade and thought he would be wearing the jersey of the New Orleans Saints at this time, but he is not, and now he reports his planned arrival for team practices next week. Shockey will be in New York for promotional appearances on Saturday. Team sources have commented on Shockey, using apparent suggestions that he might still be traded by noting Shockey is the team's starting tight end "right now."
Ocho happy? Rosenhaus says "Not so fast..."Wednesday 6/4, 8:39 PM CT
Despite reports stating Cincinnati wide receiver Chad Johnson would return to the team, agent Drew Rosenhaus is now telling reporters that no final decision on that matter has been made, according to ProFootballTalk.com.

Our View: Talk is noting a video playing on Sprint TV and YouTube that includes Rosenhaus claiming Ocho Cinco has yet to make an official decision on his future and he has not yet decided if he will in fact return to the team practices or note. Rosenhaus states he has spoken with Johnson recently and the two are still focused on efforts to encourage a trade out of Cincinnati. Next week will provide an answer as the Bengals begin mandatory minicamps.
Rivers progressing quicklyWednesday 6/4, 8:34 PM CT
Reports out of San Diego are sounding sighs of relief as Chargers passer Philip Rivers appears to be recovering from injury well ahead of schedule, according to ProFootballTalk.com.

Our View: Rivers suffered a torn ACL late last season and his projected rehab was set to force a late start to training camp. However, Adam Schefter from the NFL Network noted Rivers was on the practice field today, taking ten snaps with the starting offense and leading the unit's 11-on-11 drills earlier this week.
Taylor, Fins reach tentative agreementWednesday 6/4, 8:23 PM CT
Reports out of Miami have the Dolphins and embattled defensive end Jason Taylor making amends and coming together to move forward, according to the Palm Beach Post.

Our View: The Post is reporting the Dolphins have met with Taylor and (a) will support Taylor's decision to attend training camp when he feels he is ready to come aboard (and they will avoid the potential fines associated with such decisions, as long as it is not a detriment to the team), and (b) will continue to seek options to honor his desire for a trade. Bill Parcells stands by his statement that Taylor will either retire or play for the Dolphins this season, and Taylor submits his acceptance that the team must seek quality value in any trade offered. In the end, the team is supporting views that attending practice is a risk of injury and will weaken his value in trades, thus they will allow him to miss. On the other end, the Dolphins will continue to seek offers with hopes of finding something agreeable to all parties.
Garcia threatens retirementWednesday 6/4, 8:02 PM CT
Tampa Bay passer Jeff Garcia spoke with reporters today and suggested that frustration over the lack of progress in contract negotiations has led him to consider retirement, according to ProFootballTalk.com.

Our View: The story from Talk quotes a television update from NFL Network's Adam Schefter, noting Garcia is visibly upset and, with one year left on his current contract (a contract he no longer values), is more than happy to walk off and call it a day. Of course, it could be simple posturing, but Garcia had better watch his step. Coach Jon Gruden seems to carry a ton of faith in Luke McCown and there are other options on the depth chart. Garcia is good... but he is old and he may not be in position to play this game.
Spikes asking too much for NinersWednesday 6/4, 7:53 PM CT
The San Francisco 49ers have met with free agent linebacker Takeo Spikes , but they report their interest is now dead due to Spikes' asking price, according to the Press Democrat.

Our View: Spikes is reportedly asking for a deal that will pay him $2.5 million per season and the Niners have no desire to go that high for a 31-year-old veteran of 10 years. The Niners are hoping to find a presence on the inside to work next to phenom Patrick Willis, and it now appears Spikes will not be that player.
Lynch in legal troubleWednesday 6/4, 7:37 PM CT
Reports out of Buffalo state police discovered a SUV registered to Bills running back Marshawn Lynch parked in his driveway shortly after that vehicle struck a woman early Saturday morning, according to the Buffalo News.

Our View: The paper is reporting the SUV had visible damage and has been linked to the scene of the crime. Sources have also told the paper that Lynch was seen in the area not long before the incident. The police have yet to name Lynch as an official suspect, but reports indicate a charge of leaving the scene of an accident, a Class A misdemeanor, are likely to follow.
Baltimore offensive line shuffleWednesday 6/4, 7:32 PM CT
With future Hall of Famer Jonathan Ogden prepared to step away from the game, the Baltimore Ravens are facing daunting challenges along the offensive line, but offensive coordinator Cam Cameron believes the starting lineup is solidified and in place, according to BaltimoreRavens.com.

Our View: During the teams OTAs today, the line put in against the starting defense put Jared Gaither at left tackle, Ben Grubbs at left guard, Jason Brown (formerly a right guard) at center, Marshal Yanda at right guard, and Adam Terry to right tackle. There are concerns in that group. Terry is hampered by a minor ankle injury while both Brown and Yanda are being asked to move positions. That will require time to get educated and accustomed to the position.
Henry to safety?Wednesday 6/4, 7:27 PM CT
Cornerback Anthony Henry may be slated for the starting job in Dallas, but he has suggested that he would be open to taking a shot at safety should the team request such a move, according to the Star Telegram.

Our View: The potential reinstatement of Pacman Jones is the move that lurks in the shadows that could lead the Cowboys to suggest Henry make such a move. The team is also giving rookie Mike Jenkins full reps at cornerback and are happy with what they see. That would leave Henry without a spot, but they could use his services at safety, and Henry believes such versatility will only enhance his value and could prolong his career.
Allen says it is over, police disagreeWednesday 6/4, 7:20 PM CT
Miami cornerback Will Allen asserts the incidents of legal concern over recent weeks are "a closed matter," according to the Sun-Sentinel.

Our View: Allen was questioned last month in connection with an altercation in a parking lot outside of a Bed Bath & Beyond, and further investigations led to allegations that Allen pulled a gun on a man during an argument over a gambling debt. That led to rumors that Allen may be involved in an illegal gambling ring and could be implicated as part of a federal investigation as a financial investor in the ring. While Allen wants to stop answering questions and says this is no big deal, the Davie Police Department has told reporters the investigation is ongoing and is not likely to be completed until July or August. At that time, all findings will be sent to the State's Attorney who will ultimately decide if the police should press charges.
Bucs TE Stevens fined, suspendedWednesday 6/4, 7:14 PM CT
Updating a report from yesterday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have suspended tight end Jerramy Stevens for the first two games of the season without pay and also fined the veteran end an additional game check today for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, according to the Associated Press.

Our View: The team signed Stevens in April of 2007 after being released by the Seahawks, a decision made following an arrest in Scottsdale, Arizona for driving under the influence and possession of marijuana. The former first-round draft pick was convicted of DUI in September and served a one-game suspension and was fined an additional game check for the marijuana offense. The latest suspension stems from the DUI portion of the case. The NFL has stated that any further violations between now and the start of the season will increase that suspension to three games.
Springs remains missingWednesday 6/4, 6:48 PM CT
Reports out of Washington indicate defensive backfielder Shawn Springs , as promised, has yet to attend team activities and has failed to make contact with new coach Jim Zorn, according to the Washington Post.

Our View: The veteran cornerback has been working in Arizona, an approach to conditioning he enjoyed last summer. He has spoken with teammates who report Springs does not plan to join the team until mandatory training camp arrives, but his decision to avoid contact with Zorn has introduced concerns. Zorn reports the team is unaware of his situation but is working on their gameplan without him.
Saints fire MuellerWednesday 6/4, 6:43 PM CT
The New Orleans Saints have fired Vice President of Player Personnel Rick Mueller, according to ProFootballTalk.com.

Our View: The rumors surrounding this situation suggest Mueller was mixed into negative emotions with general manager Mickey Loomis, and Loomis was the choice of team ownership. Mueller was charged with scouting and player evaluations and a review of his work makes it difficult to assert he was let go do to bad job performance (can you say Marques Colston?).
Colvin to Houston?Wednesday 6/4, 6:39 PM CT
Free agent linebacker Rosevelt Colvin visited with the Houston Texans today, according to the Associated Press.

Our View: Colvin was released by the Patriots in February after five seasons in New England. He missed the final five games of the regular season with a foot injury, leading to concerns about his durability and health. However, Colvin touts 52 1/2 sacks over nine seasons and his accomplished abilities to get after the quarterback are awfully tempting. Giving defensive end Mario Williams a partner in crime could be beneficial.
Anderson rejoins BengalsWednesday 6/4, 6:35 PM CT
Tackle Willie Anderson missed the bulk of the 2007 season with heel and knee injuries, but today he returned to join his Cincinnati teammates and has been given full clearance to participate in team drills, according to ProFootballTalk.

Our View: The challenge now will be to earn his starting position at right tackle back. Since the injuries, Stacy Andrews has performed well and is slated to start at the position this season. Andrews signed a one-year tender as the Bengals' franchise player and will earn $7.455 million this year. Anderson turns 33-years of age this year, but the team signed the former Pro Bowler to a five-year, $32 million contract in 2006. Either way, money will be wasted, but the thought of dumping either player is hard to imagine.
Battle promises to attend next roundWednesday 6/4, 3:01 PM CT
Arnaz Battle said that he promises to attend the 49ers' next round of off-season workouts, according to the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. He confirmed that he missed this week's OTA due to personal reasons.

Our View: Battle has been reduced to the number three receiver role following the addition of new projected starters Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson, but Battle could still see plenty of passes thrown his way, while under the direction of offensive coordinator Mike Martz. Battle racked up 50 receptions for 600 yards on a poor 49ers' offense in 2007, and could rank as a solid sleeper for 2008.
Williams reports to OTA Wednesday 6/4, 2:53 PM CT
Roy Williams reported to the Lions' OTA on Wednesday, according to the Detroit Free Press. He said, "I’m an OTA guy. I want to be here."

Our View: Williams stated that he failed to attend last week due to bad weather in his hometown, and missed Monday's workout due to a scheduling error. His absence had nothing to do with him wanting a new contract.
Williams returns to practice Wednesday 6/4, 2:38 PM CT
Demetrius Williams has returned to practice for the Ravens, and stated that he is fully recovered from his sore Achilles’ tendon, according to the Baltimore Sun. He commented, "It’s a good feeling being back. I’m working with the guys and getting a feel for what they’re doing and what I’m doing. I feel a little bit rusty right now just because I’m trying to get my legs back under me from not running." He wasn't too rusty, as he hauled in a high Kyle Boller pass between two defenders, and took it 50 yards to the end zone.

Our View: Williams has deep sleeper potential for 2008, and his recovery is seemingly going well. He will battle for the number three receiver role this season opposite starters Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton.
Woodson still not practicing Wednesday 6/4, 2:13 PM CT
Andre' Woodson, who has been plagued by a quadriceps injury since rookie minicamp, is still not practicing with the Giants, according to the Star Ledger.

Our View: The rookie will have a hard time making the team if he can't find his way onto the practice field soon.
Brennan four weeks from being 100%Wednesday 6/4, 2:08 PM CT
Rookie quarterback Colt Brennan (Hawaii), who is recovering from hip surgery, said he is about four weeks away from being 100%, according to the Washington Post. Coach Jim Zorn has been pleased with what he has seen from Brennan so far.

Our View: He is participating in more drills, but is yet to face live contact. Brennan is one of five quarterbacks currently on the Redskins' roster, and is battling for the number three spot. Jason Campbell will be the starter, with Todd Collins expected to be the top backup. Brennan should beat out Sam Hollenbach and Derek Devine for the other spot.
Brown is getting increased reps Wednesday 6/4, 1:39 PM CT
Ronnie Brown is getting increased reps during the team OTA sessions, according to the Miami Herald. Coach Tony Sparano said, "Each one of these practices, he's been able to do a little bit more and that's good for us and good for Ronnie."

Our View: His progress continues at a favorable pace as he recovers from his knee injury. He will serve in a time-share with Ricky Williams for carries this season, if both backs prove to be healthy.
Harrison has been absent from OTAWednesday 6/4, 1:17 PM CT
Marvin Harrison has not been participating in the Colts' OTA sessions, according to Colts.com.

Our View: The sessions are voluntary and Harrison has been practicing at home on his own. His ailing knees are also reportedly progressing well on schedule.
Crowder guarantees he will be readyWednesday 6/4, 1:11 PM CT
Channing Crowder, who is recovering from knee surgery, guarantees that he will be ready for the start of training camp, according to the Sun Sentinel. Crowder is participating in conditioning and individual drills on a limited basis. He said, "I could participate fully now, but they have to clear me. I think in the next couple of weeks they will, and I'll be fine."

Our View: Crowder led the Dolphins with 77 tackles (60 solo) in 2007. While he recovers, the acting starters on the inside in the Dolphins' 3-4 system are Reggie Torbor and Akin Ayodele.
Young skipping voluntary workoutsWednesday 6/4, 12:18 PM CT
Scott Young has been skipping voluntary team workouts, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Our View: He is projected to be a backup guard this season, and it is believed that he may be skipping the workouts in a bid to get released by the team, with hopes of catching on with a bigger role with another club.
Owens plans to pay back Eagles Wednesday 6/4, 12:13 PM CT
Terrell Owens said he plans to pay back the Eagles the remaining $769,120 of his 2005 signing bonus that an arbitrator deemed that he owes the team, according to the Dallas Morning News. Owens stated, "Yeah, I have to pay that back. I don't mind paying that. They can have it. How they want it. They want it in cash, pennies, they can get it. However they want it, really."

Our View: Owens recently inked a three-year extension with Dallas on Tuesday that pushes his current deal to about $34 million, making it easier to part with the money that he owes the Eagles.
Lehan injured in practice Wednesday 6/4, 11:51 AM CT
Michael Lehan needed to be helped off the field during Wednesday's OTA practice, according to the Miami Herald. He sustained an apparent right knee or ankle injury. While in obvious pain, he pulled himself across the artificial grass, unable to move his right leg, which was involuntarily crossed over his left.

Our View: Lehan was competing for the starting cornerback job opposite Will Allen, and the Dolphins are very thin at the position. We will keep you posted on his status.
Grimes working as starter Wednesday 6/4, 11:44 AM CT
Brent Grimes is working with the first-team as DeAngelo Hall's replacement at cornerback, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He has displayed strong abilities with excellent athleticism, and coach Mike Smith commented, "He's a very athletic, undersized corner, but I don't think he plays little. He plays with good size. He's got the speed and the quickness you're looking for."

Our View: Grimes can be viewed as an underdog, as he is only 5-10 180 pounds, and came from small school Shippensburg (which is in Pennsylvania in case you haven't heard of it). Von Hutchins, who was the previous top contender for the starting cornerback spot, has been moved to the nickel role.
Hackett returned to practice Wednesday 6/4, 11:35 AM CT
D.J. Hackett has returned to practice today, according to the Rock Hill Herald. He missed two days of work due to knee swelling, but the ailment was apparently minor. He just wanted to take a few days to ice the ailment, to prevent it from getting worse.

Our View: This is good news for him, as he cannot afford to lose reps while he is in a tight battle with veteran Muhsin Muhammad for the starting receiver role opposite speed demon Steve Smith.
Higgins is having active week Wednesday 6/4, 11:29 AM CT
Second-year receiver Johnnie Lee Higgins is having an active week, as he caught another half-dozen passes in practice on Tuesday, according to InsideBayArea.com.

Our View: Higgins failed to make an impact as a third-round draft pick in 2007, but he is explosive with great speed and quickness. He is dangerous as a vertical threat on the outside, but will also go over the middle to make plays as well. The number three receiver role in Oakland is up for grabs, and he could be well-suited for the job, if he continues to make strides through training camp. He had the skills to be a first-round pick, but his 6-0 185 pound frame dropped him to the third.
Williams and Thomas in position warWednesday 6/4, 11:19 AM CT
Sam Williams and Robert Thomas are in a battle for the starting gig at strong-side linebacker, according to InsideBayArea.com. Both candidates are getting reps with the first-team.

Our View: Williams only made 16 tackles (11 solo) in 2007 and was unseated by Thomas as the starter, but Williams is getting another shot to win back the job. There shouldn't be much fantasy value from this spot in Oakland, regardless of which guy occupies it.
Bush showing off his hands Wednesday 6/4, 11:12 AM CT
Michael Bush is displaying strong hands and receiving skills so far in camp, according to InsideBayArea.com. His highlight of Tuesday came when he reached behind for a finger-tip catch on an off-target throw over the middle by Andrew Walter.

Our View: Bush always displayed solid hands for a big man during his time at Louisville, and he could make LaMont Jordan more expendable if he continues to excel in this area.
Fasano improved last seasonWednesday 6/4, 10:39 AM CT
Anthony Fasano was behind the development curve as a second-round pick for Dallas, but he did improve last season, according to the Miami Herald. Former Browns' scout Matt Williamson said, "He won't stretch the field as much as David Martin can. But Fasano is a better blocker."

Our View: Fasano is still being limited by off-season shoulder surgery, but he will get a fair shot to beat out David Martin for the starting job at tight end this season. The tight end position is going to be emphasized in Miami under offensive coordinator Dan Henning, and the winner of the starting gig could ultimately hold solid fantasy value.
Lynch has resumed practicing Wednesday 6/4, 10:32 AM CT
Marshawn Lynch has resumed practicing with the Bills' OTA, according to BuffaloBills.com.

Our View: Bills' team-mates said there have been no discussions as of yet regarding Lynch's possible involvement in the recent hit-and-run incident with his car.
Ellis could attend OTA today?Wednesday 6/4, 9:40 AM CT
Greg Ellis missed Tuesday's OTA sessions, but could attend today, according to the Dallas Morning News. He has missed several sessions overall, as he has been upset due to reduced practice time.

Our View: The team wanted to give more reps to second-year outside linebacker Anthony Spencer, who didn't play much as a rookie in 2007. Ellis spoke to Wade Phillips on Monday, and Ellis is now on the same page. He only made 31 tackles (24 solo) in 2007, but carried his weight with 12.5 sacks and three forced fumbles.
Kaczur arrested on April 27 Wednesday 6/4, 9:27 AM CT
It has been reported that Nick Kaczur was arrested back on April 27 for illegal possession of prescription painkillers, according to the Boston Globe. Kaczur was driving 76 miles an hour in a 65-mile-per-hour zone on the New York State Thruway in Whitestown when police pulled him over and discovered a small amount of controlled substance that he did not have a prescription for.

Our View: Kaczur was then used in a sting operation for the DEA to catch a supplier of OxyContin. The team did not make a statement, but did sign tackle Oliver Ross on Monday, likely for insurance. NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said last night that misusing prescription drugs is a violation of the league's substance-abuse policies and that players face escalating sanctions for repeated violations.
Sparano wants Taylor to stay Wednesday 6/4, 9:19 AM CT
Coach Tony Sparano mentioned in a radio interview (WQAM 560) that he wants Jason Taylor to remain with the Dolphins, according to the Palm Beach Post. Sparano said, "I want to see Jason Taylor back here with the Miami Dolphins in uniform, out on the field, doing what he does best for the Miami Dolphins, and that’s running after quarterbacks and sacking quarterbacks. I think at the end of our visit, I know that Jason knows that that’s how I feel, and that’s how we feel as an organization right now."

Our View: Sparano previously stated that Taylor would not be at training camp, so both sides are seemingly coming closer together now.
Baker intends to attend minicamp Wednesday 6/4, 9:12 AM CT
Chris Baker said that he intends to attend the Jets' mandatory minicamp tomorrow, according to the NY Post. Baker will attend but is still displeased with his contract, which he believes is below-market of what he is worth.

Our View: Baker is expected to remain vocal about his displeasure with his contract, and could prove to be a team distraction. The team isn't likely to give in to his demands, as they added Bubba Franks, and drafted Dustin Keller for more depth and insurance.
Edwards is fine, and back in action Wednesday 6/4, 8:58 AM CT
Braylon Edwards sustained a hip pointer two weeks ago, but he practiced fully on Tuesday, and is showing no lingering effects of the injury, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Our View: This further confirms that the ailment wasn't serious. He established himself as an elite receiver last season, and shouldn't disappoint in 2008.
Bentley scheduled for physical Mon. Wednesday 6/4, 8:53 AM CT
LeCharles Bentley is scheduled for his physical on Monday, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. GM Phil Savage said, "We'll know by Monday evening, I would suspect, one way or the other in terms of what he's going to be capable of doing." Bentley is trying to rebound from a serious knee injury.

Our View: Coach Romeo Crennel said he's talked to Bentley, and the center is excited about how good his surgically repaired knee feels. The offensive line would get a sizable boost if he proves to be healthy, otherwise Hank Fraley will serve as the center.
Browns in no hurry to sign WinslowWednesday 6/4, 8:48 AM CT
The Browns are in no hurry to sign often-injured tight end Kellen Winslow Jr to a new long-term deal, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. GM Phil Savage said, "We don't have a lot of wiggle room right now at this particular time. Only time will tell if it goes one direction or the other, but I think we've let it be known kind of where we are."

Our View: Savage also said he expects Winslow to show up for mandatory minicamp next Tuesday through Thursday. Winslow was absent for the four weeks of team OTA sessions, but Winslow's agent confirmed that Winslow was at home in San Diego rehabbing his scoped right knee, and also added that Winslow will report to minicamp.
Battle displeased with role? Wednesday 6/4, 8:06 AM CT
Arnaz Battle is skipping team OTA sessions, and it is believed that he is displeased with his role in the offense, according to the SF Chronicle.

Our View: He spent two-and-a-half seasons as a starter with the 49ers, and isn't happy about being reduced to the slot role. Bryant Johnson and Isaac Bruce are currently working as the starters. The offense is now under the direction of offensive coordinator Mike Martz, and Battle should embrace the slot role, as he would see plenty of action. He racked up 50 receptions for 600 yards on a poor 49ers' offense in 2007, and could rank as a solid sleeper for 2008, if he just accepts his slot role, and gives a top effort.
Kiwanuka close to 100% Wednesday 6/4, 7:57 AM CT
Mathias Kiwanuka said he is getting closer to 100% health again, according to the NY Daily News. He isn't limited on the field and believes he is light years ahead of where he was at this time last year, in regard to learning to play linebacker. When asked about potentially switching back to defensive end if Michael Strahan retires, Kiwanuka replied, "I’m not worried. I’ve done both at this point. I’m comfortable playing linebacker, but if I have to I can switch back and forth between the two." He is recovering from a broken leg.

Our View: Kiwanuka has a strong combination of speed and power, and could handle both duties as a linebacker and defensive end. Even if Strahan retires, Kiwanuka is likely to start the season at strong-side linebacker, however. The team has good depth at end, especially after adding Renaldo Wynn.
Ward almost back to full health Wednesday 6/4, 7:50 AM CT
Derrick Ward stated that he is at about 90-95% health right now, and isn't at all limited in what he can do on the field, according to the NY Daily News. He is recovering from a broken fibula. Ward got his ring, but did not play in the Super Bowl, and he commented, "We got there and won our ring, but wasn't part of it. I want the chance to play in one and showcase what I have."

Our View: This is good news for Ward and the Giants' running game. Ward will compete with Ahmad Bradshaw for the top backup job behind Brandon Jacobs. Ward rushed for 602 yards on 125 carries in 2007, with a solid 4.8 average. He also hauled in 26 receptions for another 179 yards, and could hold some fantasy value this season if he wins the backup role, namely for PPR leagues.
Tyree expected to be limited Wednesday 6/4, 7:44 AM CT
David Tyree is expected to be limited at the start of training camp, according to the NY Daily News. Tyree said his knee feels good and his rehab is right on schedule. He is no longer on crutches, so that is encouraging.

Our View: Tyree needs to be healthy during camp, as the team will have a tight competition for the roster spots at receiver beyond starters Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer.
Walker medically cleared Wednesday 6/4, 7:36 AM CT
Mike Walker has been medically cleared (following knee surgery), and has resumed practicing with the team during their OTA on Tuesday, according to Jaguars.com. He was reduced to zero receptions in his rookie campaign due to his knee injury, but is off to a good start in his sophomore campaign, as he made two eye-catching receptions, both on dives, on Tuesday.

Our View: The team will take it slow with Walker, and he will practice only once in each of the two mini-camp days. Walker is very talented and could develop into a solid starter in Jacksonville down the line, he just needs to get (and stay) healthy.
Curry could begin running next week Wednesday 6/4, 7:28 AM CT
Ronald Curry, who is recovering from foot surgery, could begin running as early as next week, according to the Oakland Tribune.

Our View: Drew Carter has been taking Curry's spot during OTA sessions, and has taken advantage of the added reps, as he has been performing very well. Next to Javon Walker, Curry is the most talented receiver on the Raiders' roster, and shouldn't be pushed from his starting spot, if he proves to be healthy. The Raiders' offense struggled and lacked a pulse at times in 2007, but Curry still put together a solid season with 55 receptions for 717 yards and four scores. The Raiders aerial attack will be better in 2008 as JaMarcus Russell and tight end Zach Miller are both one year wiser, and the team finally has a real threat on the ground to keep defenses off balance with rookie Darren McFadden. Curry could reach new highs in 2008, especially with Javon Walker likely to draw most of the attention from defenses. It all hinges on Curry being healthy.
Maxwell has been impressive Wednesday 6/4, 7:17 AM CT
Marcus Maxwell has been impressive so far in the off-season for the Bengals, according to Bengals.com. The team likes his combination of size (6-4 205) and speed. The team likes his tough physical play as well.

Our View: He was previously cut by the 49ers, but is entering his third pro season, which is where most receivers break out to the next level. He has shown Carson Palmer reliability on his routes, and has a shot to emerge as a red-zone target if he holds on to make the team. Chad Johnson and TJ Houshmandzadeh will draw most of the attention from defenses, and the team could take advantage of Maxwell's size and toughness inside the 20.
Chatman leading candidate for slot Wednesday 6/4, 7:10 AM CT
Antonio Chatman is the leading candidate for the number three receiver role out of the slot, according to Bengals.com. He is healthy and has retained his quickness and agility.

Our View: He will serve as a solid compliment to studs Chad Johnson and Houshmandzadeh. He only averaged 7.8 yards per reception in 2007, but was slowed by injuries, and that number will go up to a more favorable level if he can stay healthy. He has potential to be a late-round sleeper.
Burress not expected to fully practiceWednesday 6/4, 7:02 AM CT
Plaxico Burress is not expected to fully practice when the Giants open training camp, according to the Star-Ledger.

Our View: He is recovering from the knee and ankle injuries that bothered him in 2007. He fought through the ailments to rack up 1,025 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, and should be ready to go for Week 1.
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