 3 Colts Starters Battling Injuries -- Fri Feb 5 7:25 pm --
Freeney, Powers, Lilja Hopeful To Play In Super Bowl | Three Indianapolis Colts players did not practice Thursday. They were defensive end Dwight Freeney (ankle), cornerback Jerraud Powers (foot), and guard Ryan Lilja (back). Freeney, a perennial All-Pro, has now not practiced since suffering a third degree low ankle sprain in the AFC championship game. His right ankle was wrapped in a tight black wrap/brace Thursday morning, and he said he did not expect he would be able to sprint or cut until Friday or Saturday. Powers was scratched from the starting lineup in the AFC championship and his participation in Super Bowl XLIV is also up in the air. Coach Jim Caldwell has said both players are improving but he puts their status at day-to-day. Lilja started all 16 games this season but has battled injuries and had several surgeries recently. Yet unlike Freeney and Powers he had been a full participant in practice until Thursday. (New Orleans Times-Picayune)
FF Today's Take: Lilja is expected to play, but the statuses of Powers and Freeney are somewhat less clear. Coach Jim Caldwell revealed today that Powers had some minor surgery to help repair a fractured foot three weeks ago, but Powers has claimed this week that he has almost fully recovered. Freeney missed practice again today and it's looking less and less likely that he'll suit up Sunday.
|  | Ochocinco Requests T.O. To Join Him -- Thu Feb 4 7:30 pm --
Boisterous WR Pleas FA Owens To Become A Bengal | Is the NFL ready to see boisterous wide receivers Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens on the same team?
Ochocinco asked for it Thursday during an interview with NFL Network's Rich Eisen and Warren Sapp, even saying he would take a pay cut to make it happen. Owens countered later in the day by saying the league doesn't want them together because the combination would be too dynamic.
Owens said the pair could co-exist because both players have the same goal in mind - winning a Super Bowl.
"Of course (we) could," Owens told NFL Network's Deion Sanders. "I did (share the football) with Jerry (Rice in San Francisco from 1996 to 2000)... Chad and I are the best of friends. ... Nothing could drive a wedge between us."
Owens is still under contract with the Bills, but he will be a free agent this offseason. While Ochocinco's offer to join the Bengals is tempting, Owens said he's open to staying with the Bills, under the right circumstances. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: Oh, how the talking heads will love this story. Ochocinco and Owens would ensure the Bengals were always a presence in the NFL news cycle, especially during the season. However, Owens would be a 1-2 year fix at most and isn't that much of an upgrade - if any at all at this point of his career - over what they had in 2008 with T.J. Houshmandzadeh or 2009 with Laveranues Coles and Andre Caldwell.
| | Gailey, Thigpen To Reunite? -- Thu Feb 4 6:30 pm --
Bills May Be Considering Adding QB Via Trade | Various online sites are simply speculating, but there is speculation that Dolphins third QB Tyler Thigpen could be a fit for the Bills.
They’re going on background information primarily. First, Thigpen played under Gailey in Kansas City in 2008, employing a spread attack with five-wide, an empty backfield and Thigpen in the shotgun.
The rumor reports are also saying that with Chad Pennington expressing a desire to return to the Dolphins in 2010 that Miami may be more ready to move Thigpen. The Dolphins, however, would have to re-sign Pennington, who is an unrestricted free agent.
Gailey is very familiar with Thigpen’s skill set having coached him and called plays for him two years ago. So there are some dots that can be connected with respect to the speculation. (buffalobills.com)
FF Today's Take: As the reports suggests, this is merely speculation. But on the surface, it makes sense as it would provide the Bills with a mobile QB who already knows Gailey's system. Furthermore, he wouldn't require more than a fifth- or sixth-round pick in return, allowing Buffalo to address other "need" positions during the earlier rounds.
| | LT Convinced He's Done As A Charger -- Thu Feb 4 6:00 pm --
Due $2 M Roster Bonus On March 5 | LaDainian Tomlinson knows he has played his last game as a Charger.
“I’m not coming back,” Tomlinson told The San Diego Union-Tribune on Thursday. “I don’t believe I’ll be back in San Diego. I’ve accepted it.”
After more than a month of saying he did not know what would happen, Tomlinson said he has believed for a while he would be let go by the Chargers.
Tomlinson has two years remaining on his contract, but he is due a $2 million roster bonus March 5 and would be paid $5 million in total salary in 2010. As part of the renegotiated contract he signed last March, he is guaranteed $1 million by the Chargers for next season. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
FF Today's Take: Despite his late push towards fantasy relevancy in 2009, LT experienced a severe dropoff this past season. Even though age and wear-and-tear have sapped him of some of his legendary quickness and speed, Tomlinson can't be completely blamed for the lack of production. Offensive line injuries and a dramatic shift to the passing game didn't help matters either. Potential suitors could include Cleveland, Detroit, New England and New Orleans.
| | Colts To Lock Manning Up Long-Term -- Wed Feb 3 7:25 pm --
Isray To Make Manning Highest-Paid Player | Another massive payday awaits Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, whose contract expires at the end of the 2010 season. Owner Jim Irsay reiterated Tuesday the team will address a new deal for the only four-time MVP in league history, and it will be historic. "We know that Peyton's going to be the highest-paid player in the league," Irsay said. "It's something that'll get done. We'll be talking in the offseason." Manning signed a seven-year, $98 million contract in 2004. He's due a base salary of $15.8 million next season. "Peyton's deal is not a hard deal (to get done)," Irsay said. Just expensive. (Indianapolis Star)
FF Today's Take: Great news Colts’ fans: the blue and white will likely be contenders for a while longer. When Manning is eventually resigned, he’ll surpass younger brother Eli to become the current highest-paid NFL player.
| | Rams Sign WR Moore -- Wed Feb 3 7:25 pm --
In An Attempt To Bolster Receiving Corps | The St. Louis Rams have signed wide receiver Nick Moore, the brother of New Orleans Saints wideout Lance Moore, to their offseason roster. Like his older brother Nick Moore played his college ball at the University of Toledo. Nick Moore, 6-2, 194, had 78 catches for Toledo during the 2008 season, including what was then a Mid-American Conference record 20 catches in a 13-10 upset of Michigan. The Rockets became the first MAC team to beat Michigan; Moore was arrested later than night for his alleged role in a fight outside a Toledo bar. Moore was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted rookie in 2009. He spent part of the season on the Vikings’ practice squad and New England’s practice squad. The signing of Moore gives the Rams 46 players on their current offseason roster. (St Louis Post-Dispatch)
FF Today's Take: The Rams are desperately looking anywhere they can for offensive help, and are hopeful that Nick can eventually chip in as a capable receiver, much like his brother Lance (also a former practice roster player) has for the Saints. The Rams top WR this season was Donnie Avery who had just 47 catches for 589 yards and 5 TDs.
| | Eagles Tab Jauron To Run Secondary -- Tue Feb 2 10:00 pm --
Replaces Brian Stewart | The Eagles have hired Dick Jauron to coach their secondary, according to a league source.
Jauron was fired as the Bills’ coach in November after three-plus seasons, and he also served as the Bears’ coach for five seasons (1999-2003). Jauron worked with Eagles coach Andy Reid in Green Bay (1992-94) and becomes the latest member of Buffalo’s former coaching staff to catch on with another team this offseason.
Jauron replaces Brian Stewart, who left the Eagles to become the defensive coordinator at the University of Houston.
The Eagles have hired Dick Jauron to coach their secondary, according to a league source. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: It's quite a demotion from head coach, but the Eagles are one of the best-run organizations in the league, so he'll likely get another shot at being a defensive coordinator down the road. Generally speaking, Jauron has been a much better assistant coach than head coach to this point of his career. With this assignment, the former Bills and Bears' HC returns to his roots as a defensive backs coach, where he spent the first 10 years of his NFL coaching career.
| | Welker Finally Undergoes ACL Surgery -- Tue Feb 2 7:30 pm --
Exactly 30 Days After Injury | As expected, Patriots receiver Wes Welker underwent surgery today at Massachusetts General Hospital, a source told The Herald. The goal was to repair his torn knee ligaments in his left knee.
As you read last month, Welker was waiting and waiting to have surgery, as he chilled while his MCL got a little better. It was 30 days from when Welker tore his knee against the Texans.
The surgery was performed by Thomas Gill, the team doctor for the Patriots. Colleague Karen Guregian was told the surgery was a grand success. So that’s good for Wes and the Patriots.
And now, it’s time to rehab. (Boston Herald)
FF Today's Take: Welker's goal is to be back by Week 1, but he is a pretty sure bet to be placed on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list to begin the season. While Welker recovers, former college QB Julian Edelman will continue to learn his new craft while trying to draw double teams away from Randy Moss. Welker is a definite risk in fantasy in 2010 while Edelman is a intriguing WR3 possibility, especially in PPR leagues.
| | A. Gonzalez Confident About 2010 -- Tue Feb 2 7:00 pm --
Overcoming Troublesome Knee Injury And Long Rehab | Anthony Gonzalez looked uncomfortable, as you’d expect.
He suffered a knee injury in the first quarter of the season's first game, and he’s been a spectator ever since. He was supposed to be the young receiver who carved out a bigger niche and became a reliable target for Peyton Manning.
But as he’s rehabilitated, he’s watched his friends Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie do the job and heard the questions about next year. With Gonzalez healthy, the Colts should have an embarrassment of riches for Manning with Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark, Garcon, and Collie. (ESPN.com)
FF Today's Take: If and when Gonzalez takes the field for Week 1 of the 2010 season, it will come about 45 weeks later than his 2009 owners expected. While it's easy to forget about Gonzo given the success of Garcon and Collie, it wasn't long ago the Colts handed him a starting job and waved good-bye to Marvin Harrison without a second thought. He could be a very nice bargain for his owners next season if he in fact returns healthy.
| | New Bears OC Martz Plans To Use Olsen -- Tue Feb 2 6:00 pm --
Also Praises Current WR Corps | New Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz gushed Monday about the receivers he inherited in Devin Aromashodu, Johnny Knox, Devin Hester and Earl Bennett.
But what about Greg Olsen, who led the Bears in receptions with 60 this season? Some would say the tight end is not an integral part of Martz's offensive scheme after watching Pro Bowler Vernon Davis of the 49ers catch only 31 passes in 2008 when Martz directed the offense. But Martz didn't sound like a guy ready to squeeze his tight ends out of the equation.
"In the past, we've always had these big, physical tight ends who really we tried to utilize in the running game and as pass blockers and then as wide receivers," Martz said. "Greg is different. This is more of back in the Ernie Zampese era with the Kellen Winslows and those guys that the Chargers moved around and used him as a blocker. But when you can get...him matched up on linebackers and safeties, it's going to be a mismatch. And then his ability to still stand in there and slug it out, he's a complete player from every respect at that position." (Chicago Tribune)
FF Today's Take: It's hard to forgive or forget how Martz failed to use Davis properly when the best WR he had was a tie between a raw Josh Morgan and an aging Isaac Bruce. It's a good bet the new OC can get as many as three WRs to be fantasy-relevant - most likely Aromashodu, Knox and Hester - but Olsen doesn't figure to be much more than a 40-45 catch player in a Martz offense. As a result, Olsen is a poor bet to match his 2009 numbers.
| | Freeney Questionable With Ankle Injury -- Tue Feb 2 7:00 am --
Colts DE Unlikely To Play In Super Bowl | All-Pro defensive end Dwight Freeney still hopes to play in the Super Bowl despite a torn ligament in his right ankle. "Hopefully, towards the end of the week it starts to get better," Freeney said at Tuesday's media day. "The decision will come later on in the week. It's kind of early now." Freeney injured the ankle in the AFC Championship Game nine days ago. He said chances of him practicing the rest of the week are not good. He's the only starter on either team who might miss the game because of injury. Freeney is listed as questionable on the Colts' injury report with a sprained right ankle. Coach Jim Caldwell has said Freeney has a third-degree, low-ankle sprain and is improving. A third-degree ankle sprain by definition involves a complete tear of an ankle ligament. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Freeney led the Colts in sacks (13) and will obviously be missed by the defensive line as they attempt to slow down Drew Brees. His grade three sprain is the most severe. Expect to see veteran Raheem Brock move into the starting lineup if Freeney is ruled out.
| | Eagles To Trade Vick? -- Mon Feb 1 7:00 am --
Vick Expresses Interest To Play Elsewhere In 2010 | Quarterback Michael Vick said on Dan Patrick's radio show Monday that he has expressed an interest to team management in playing elsewhere next season.
A report also had circulated that coach Andy Reid has assured Vick that he will be traded before the NFL draft, which begins April 22. A team source said neither claim is true.
The Eagles have a $5.25 million option on Vick's 2010 contract, and there have been reports that the team does not plan to pick up that option. The Eagles have until March 5 to make that decision.
It seems likely that the Eagles will try to trade Vick before making any decision on his 2010 option. If the Eagles are unable to make a trade, it's possible that they will release Vick, allowing him to search for a job as a free agent. (San Jose Mercury News)
FF Today's Take: Vick will likely be the odd man out in the Eagles QB rotation. Kevin Kolb appears to be ready for a starting job and will likely get his opportuntiy in 2010 or perhaps 2011 if the Eagles decide to take another run with Donovan McNabb.
| | Cardinals To Be Run-Heavy In 2010? -- Sun Jan 31 7:00 am --
Warner's Retirement Could Lead To Change In Philosophy | Leinart can't fairly be judged until he is given a chance with this team to go through mini-camps, training camp and to get a starter's repetitions.
But that doesn't mean he'll immediately be handed the keys to a high-powered, throw-it-40-times offense.
Nor should he be. Leinart has a team around him that should be able to move the ball without depending solely on his left arm.
We expect to see a more run-oriented, grind-it-out offense featuring running back Beanie Wells. When Leinart shows that he can operate the offense efficiently and protect the ball, then we'd expect Whisenhunt to start letting him open it up. It's sort of an earn-as-you-learn program. (Arizona Republic)
FF Today's Take: Now that Warner has decided to retire, the Cardinals offense could see a change in philosophy, switching to a ground game featuring Wells and Hightower. The Cardinals passed the ball almost 62% of the time; ranked 12th in passing (251 yds/g) and 28th rushing (93.4 yds/g) in 2009.
| | Jones, Jets Far Apart In Contract Talks -- Fri Jan 29 4:00 pm --
RB May Have To Search For Work Elsewhere | Mike Tannenbaum hopes to have Thomas Jones back next season - but at the Jets' price. The GM said Thursday that the running back's future with the team hinges on "economic issues." Considering that Jones is due a $3 million roster bonus in March, the Jets may not want to pay that to bring back their starting running back. Jones, 31, is due to make a total of $5.8 million in the final year of his deal, including the bonus. "We expect T.J. to be back," Tannenbaum said. "There are some economic issues that obviously have to be looked at over the next month but we hope that he is back, and he's done a lot for our team, both on and off the field. We have a month to see how that plays out, but again we hope to have him back." Jones posted career highs in rushing yards (1,402) and touchdowns (14) this season, and could be seeking a contract extension. He posted those numbers after sitting out some voluntary offseason workouts, reportedly over his unhappiness with his contract, but faded in the playoffs with the emergence of rookie Shonn Greene. Perhaps hampered by a knee injury, he rushed for no more than 42 yards in any of the Jets' three postseason games. (The NY Daily News)
FF Today's Take: Shonn Greene emerged as an explosive force during postseason victories over the Bengals and Chargers. He'll likely be relied upon to shoulder the majority of the Jets' rushing attack next season and will be a hot item in fantasy drafts. After such a productive year, it's hard to believe that Jones might actually have to actively seek out a starting job next season, but that may be the inevitable truth.
| | Sanchez To Go Under The Knife -- Fri Jan 29 3:20 pm --
For Left Knee, Not Right | Mark Sanchez -- the Sanchise -- appears to be headed for knee surgery. In a curious twist, however, it's the Jets quarterback's left knee that would be operated on, not the right knee, which he injured during his rookie NFL season. When The Post was first to report exclusively on Wednesday that Sanchez was in Birmingham, Ala., to see renowned orthopedist Dr. James Andrews about his knee, it was believed he was seeking a second opinion on his right knee. That, however, was not the case. Sanchez does not need surgery on his right knee, but will undertake offseason rehabilitation. Both the Jets' medical staff and Dr. Andrews recommended that Sanchez have an "elective" procedure on his left knee to stabilize the ligaments around the patella, which Sanchez dislocated during a preseason practice at USC in August of 2008. According to the Jets, Sanchez is mulling whether he wants to have the surgery, but it's believed he'll go ahead with it, meaning he would have to rehab both knees during the offseason.
(The NY Post)
FF Today's Take: It doesn't bode well for a young quarterback's career when he's already experiencing pain in both knees during his rookie season. Thankfully, Sanchez's injuries don't appear to be especially serious, considering that the solutions are simply rest for one knee, and elective surgery for the other. Still, we won't really know where Sanchez is at health-wise until players start attending mini camps in May.
| | Warner Announces Retirement -- Fri Jan 29 3:00 pm --
Arizona QB Retires After 12 NFL Seasons | Quarterback Kurt Warner announced his retirement Friday from the NFL after 12 seasons, a year after leading the Arizona Cardinals to the Super Bowl and weeks after leading them to the second round of the playoffs. Warner, a two-time MVP and Super Bowl champion, had added motivation for a quick retirement decision: He has multiple promotional appearance commitments during Super Bowl week in Miami. Rather than answer retirement questions then, Warner preferred to remove the focus from his future as quickly as possible so it's not an issue next week, a source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: The 38-year-old QB has mulled retirement for the past couple seasons but decided to pull the trigger after a magnificent season that included 3,758 yards 27 TDs, and 14 INTs. Warner's departure leaves the Cardinals with Matt Leinart at the helm. Leinart has one year remaining on his contract and will need to prove in 2010 that he can lead the team in the post-Warner era. The value of the Cardinals passing game takes a slight hit until Leinart proves his worth.
| | Wilfork Seeking Financial Security -- Thu Jan 28 8:30 pm --
Free Agent DT Admits Playing In Florida Would Be A "Dream" | New England NT Vince Wilfork has been the good soldier long enough. This offseason the two-time Pro Bowl selection either wants some financial security, or he wants to be set free by the Patriots.
Wilfork, who starred at Santaluces High School and the University of Miami, said he and his representatives have been badgering the Patriots for a contract extension the past two seasons, but the talks were never fruitful.
He knows the Patriots will likely place a franchise tag on him instead of offering the long-term contract he desperately seeks for family security. And if they do so Wilfork said he's prepared to play hardball.
Wilfork, who has started 80 games for the past six seasons, wasn't shy about admitting that playing in Florida - either for the Dolphins or Tampa Bay - would be "a dream come true." The Dolphins need to address the nose tackle position because of Jason Ferguson's age, season-ending quadriceps injury, and free agent status. (South Florida Sun-Sentinel)
FF Today's Take: It wasn't that long ago that players came to New England or stayed with the Patriots for less money. It'd be shocking to see Wilfork leave New England for Tampa Bay, but Miami wouldn't be that big of a stretch. With that said, it's a definite longshot the Pats would let their 28-year-old defensive line anchor leave and Wilfork has openly admitted his first preference is to sign a long-term deal with New England.
| | Broncos Promote Martindale To DC -- Thu Jan 28 7:45 pm --
Succeeds Nolan To Run Denver's Defense | The Broncos officially promoted Don "Wink" Martindale from linebackers coach to defensive coordinator today.
Martindale becomes the Broncos' fifth defensive coordinator in five years.
He succeeds Mike Nolan, who left after one season and now is defensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins.
"Wink definitely deserves this," Broncos coach Josh McDaniels said. "He's earned this opportunity. Our system won't change, our philosophy won't change. He's a very aggressive coach. This is a great day for the Denver Broncos."
Martindale, 46, is an Ohio native. He's been a linebackers coach since arriving in the NFL in 2004 with the Oakland Raiders. He was last a defensive coordinator in 2003 at Western Kentucky. (Denver Post)
FF Today's Take: Martindale has the near impossible task of continuing the dramatic improvement Nolan oversaw in 2009. It's hard not to see this swap as a huge downgrade and even harder seeing the Broncos being an improved team in 2010 minus Nolan and with players like S Brian Dawkins and CB Champ Bailey another year older. With Brandon Marshall's likely departure hanging over the team this offseason, Denver faces long odds to end San Diego's four-year run as AFC West champs.
| | Bengals Ponder Doubling Up At WR -- Thu Jan 28 7:30 pm --
Simpson, Caldwell Not Delivering As Hoped | The North has two receivers that people don’t think are going to get out of the second round in Cincinnati’s Mardy Gilyard and Clemson’s Jacoby Ford.
The 5-8, 182-pound Ford doesn’t fit the Bengals’ lust for big receivers, but he’s a real blazer and showed enough toughness and hands this week to help somebody soon in the slot. The 5-11 Gilyard doesn’t exactly fit the big receiver Bengals tag either at 185 pounds, but after that ’08 draft they passed on guys like DeSean Jackson and Eddie Royal and drafted Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell, it looks to be time to revisit that philosophy.
And the Bengals will have their chances to revisit it. With Simpson and Caldwell not giving them near the production that is warranted by their second- and third-round selections, they are seriously discussing taking two receivers in this draft.
Their tight end situation is so uncertain with the injuries to Reggie Kelly (Achilles) and Chase Coffman (foot) they almost have to go after another one early after using the third-round compensatory pick on Coffman last year. They’re at the point if the best tight end is available in the first round, say Oklahoma’s Jermaine Gresham even if he’s coming off an ACL injury, they could take him. (Bengals.com)
FF Today's Take: Caldwell has enjoyed some production in his two seasons with the team, but is probably best suited to work in the slot. Simpson has given the Bengals virtually nothing and faces long odds to even make the team next season. However, after Oklahoma State's Dez Bryant, this season's WR crop isn't rich in blue-chip pro prospects, so Cincinnati would be wise to snatch a player like Gresham to open up the middle of the field and give Carson Palmer a real red-zone option. Cincy could easily come back with Gilyard, Texas' Jordan Shipley or maybe even Ole Miss' Dexter McCluster in the second round.
| | Lions To Make RB Offseason Priority -- Thu Jan 28 7:00 pm --
Kevin Smith's ACL Injury Leaves Team Thin | The Lions have three running backs under contract in Kevin Smith, Maurice Morris and Aaron Brown. But GM Martin Mayhew already is on record saying, "I anticipate adding somebody to that position," either through free agency or trade or the draft.
"The question will be what their role is going to be," Mayhew said. "Is it going to be a guy you bring in and say, 'This guy is going to be our starter.' Or is it going to be a guy you bring in to supplement what you already have."
Schwartz echoed those sentiments, pointing to teams like Dallas, Jacksonville, Carolina and San Diego that have found strength in numbers in the backfield.
"I think the run game is always something that ... I don't think you're ever sort of standing pat," Schwartz said. "It doesn't mean that you don't like the guy that you have. It's just part of that position." (Detroit News)
FF Today's Take: The Lions were already likely in the market for at least a complementary RB before Smith blew out his ACL late in the season. Smith is far from a sure bet even to be ready for the start of the 2010 season. The Lions are projected to take a DT or OT with their No. 2 overall pick, but RB is a strong possibility with their second-round pick. At that spot, Detroit would be thrilled to land a potential bellcow RB such as Cal's Jahvid Best or Georgia Tech's Jonathan Dwyer.
| | Marshall Very Likely To Be Traded -- Thu Jan 28 6:30 pm --
Broncos Expected To Deal WR This Offseason | In what are most likely his final days of playing football while wearing a Broncos helmet, wide receiver Brandon Marshall is healthy and happy.
During the AFC Pro Bowl team's first practice Wednesday at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Marshall ran a few patterns at top speed, cut sharply on the artificial surface and showed no ill effects from the bum hamstring that brought on a controversial and premature end to his 2009 season.
After the practice, Marshall was pleasant and conversational, until it was time to speak on the record.
"I'm not talking," he said. "I've had enough publicity."
Marshall was benched by Broncos coach Josh McDaniels the Friday before Denver's final game of the season, essentially for punitive, not injury-related, reasons.
The Broncos are expected to trade Marshall soon after March 5, when the NFL's trading and free-agency period opens. (Denver Post)
FF Today's Take: Much like Brett Favre, Marshall makes it hard to remember the NFL actually has an offseason. Unlike "Favre Watch", expect this ordeal to come to a resolution long before April's draft. Considering his off-field baggage, Marshall will probably draw no more than a second- and third-day draft pick at most. Expect a number of WR-needy teams such as Baltimore, Tampa Bay and maybe Cleveland or Washington to get in on the bidding while Denver uses the #10 overall pick to select Oklahoma State's Dez Bryant.
| | Welker Still Holding Out On Surgery -- Wed Jan 27 8:00 pm --
Pats' WR Considering All Options For Injured Knee | Twenty-three days after Wes Welker’s left knee exploded on the turf at Houston’s Reliant Stadium, the Patriots receiver still has not had surgery. A source with knowledge of his situation told the Herald that Welker purposely is waiting for the procedure to be performed, allowing time for his MCL to heal. Welker also tore his ACL on Jan. 3 in the loss to the Texans. Welker released a statement 20 days ago, saying, “I plan on coming back the player I was and much more.” Fourteen days ago, he told WWLS Radio in Oklahoma City, “We’re just taking our time right now to wait on (the MCL) to heal and make sure that we exhaust all the options.” The All-Pro, who had 123 catches for 1,348 yards and four touchdowns this season, has not spoken publicly since, but a source said he is maintaining good spirits. Perhaps he is hoping to avoid the same MCL-related complications that led to an infection after quarterback Tom Brady’s surgery last year. It is not yet clear where or when Welker will have the procedure done. If one assumes a six-month recovery time for an ACL tear, Welker might be pushing it to be ready for next season. (The Boston Herald)
FF Today's Take: Welker is a key component in the Pats’ offense, and Bill Belichick would love nothing more than to have his star slot receiver healthy for the start of next season. With the tears and the upcoming surgery, Welker will likely slip down most draft boards this offseason.
| | McNabb Expects Pair To Return -- Wed Jan 27 3:00 pm --
QB Believes Westbrook, Vick To Remain Eagles | Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb said he expects running back Brian Westbrook and quarterback Michael Vick to return to the Eagles next season.
“He looks forward to getting back,” McNabb said of Westbrook following the NFC’s Pro Bowl practice Wednesday. “All the talk people are saying on retirement or whatever it may be, it’s all false.”
When asked if he thinks Vick will be back for a second season, McNabb simply said, “Yes.”
Westbrook’s future came into question after concussions caused him to miss seven games this season. Westbrook, 30, finished with 274 yards on 61 carries and was spelled or replaced by rookie LeSean McCoy, who had 637 yards on 155 carries.
Vick signed a two-year deal to be McNabb’s backup last season but speculation is that his option won’t be picked up or he will be traded, especially since Vick has expressed a desire to be a starting quarterback next season. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: McNabb is not guaranteed to return himself, so take this worth a grain of salt for now. The Vikings (if Brett Favre retires) and Browns (former Eagles personnel man Tom Heckert is the Browns' new GM) are quite likely to pursue McNabb while the Rams are said to be eyeing Vick. Philadelphia will not lose both QBs, but they could easily lose one. It's safe to say that neither Vick (over $5M) or Westbrook (over $7 M) will return at their current price tags for the 2010 season.
| | Warner Announcement Coming Friday -- Wed Jan 27 2:45 pm --
Cards QB Likely To Announce Retirement | Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner will announce Friday at a news conference whether he plans to retire, according to a Cardinals source.
The widespread assumption - one that hasn't changed for weeks - is that the 38-year-old Warner will step away from the game.
One possible indication of Warner's intentions is that he already has begun gathering his family so they can attend Friday's news conference at the team's training facility, according to sources.
Warner also has another added motivation for a quick decision: He has multiple promotional appearance commitments during Super Bowl week in Miami. Rather than answer retirement questions then, Warner would prefer to remove the focus from his future as quickly as possible so it's not an issue next week, according to a source.
Warner still has a year remaining on a two-year, $23 million contract. (ESPN.com)
FF Today's Take: Nothing is official yet, but this seems to be the popular opinion. If he does retire, Warner will finish with five Pro Bowls, two NFL MVP awards and one Super Bowl victory in three appearances. He is the second quarterback in NFL history to throw more than 100 touchdown passes for two franchises. He also has the top three single-game passing yard totals in Super Bowl history.
| | Shockey Misses Practice, Questionable -- Sat Jan 23 7:00 am --
Saints Tight End Iffy For Sunday | New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey missed practice Friday with a sore right knee. Shockey also did not participate in team drills the previous two days and couldn't make Friday's final full workout before Sunday's NFC Championship game against Minnesota. Shockey suffered a knee bruise in the Saints win over Arizona last week. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Shockey is officially listed as Questionable on the injury report and could see action despite missing practice all week. If he sits, Dave Thomas would get the start.
| | Colts' DB Powers Out, Lacey In -- Fri Jan 22 1:10 pm --
Powers Likely To Miss AFC Championship With Sore Foot | When the Indianapolis Colts go up against the New York Jets this weekend in the AFC championship game, it's looking like the Colts will be slightly shorthanded. The New York Post is reporting that the Colts will be without starting cornerback Jerraud Powers, who reportedly hurt a foot in last weekend's win over the Baltimore Ravens. Powers, a rookie, didn't work out on Wednesday. If Powers can't play, the team will apparently turn to an undrafted rookie, Jacob Lacey, to fill in. But don't worry, Colts fans, Lacey isn't exactly inexperienced. He was in all 16 of the Colts' regular-season games and started nine of those. (YahooSports.com)
FF Today's Take: Powers was a key component of a Colts' defense that limited opponents to just 19 passing TDs this season, so we'll see how or if his absence hurts the Colts up against rookie Mark Sanchez. Powers' 66 tackles this season ranked second among Colts' cornerbacks.
| | Harvin Misses Second Straight Practice -- Fri Jan 22 1:00 pm --
Williams And Edwards Return To The Field | Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin is absent for a second consecutive day of practice because of another episode of migraine headaches. Harvin has dealt with migraines since he was 10 years old and has had issues on and off this season with them. He missed the Vikings' victory over Cincinnati on Dec. 13 because of migraines but that is the only game he hasn't played in this season. Harvin has missed multiple practices with the headaches but returned to play. While Harvin remains out, defensive tackle Kevin Williams (WR, DL, DB, DB) (knee) and defensive end Ray Edwards (knee) were back on the field for the first time this week after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday. Edwards had a brace on his right knee after suffering a sprain last Sunday in a playoff victory over the Dallas Cowboys. There is a report that Williams has a bone bruise on his left knee and is expected to play against the Saints. (The Minneapolis Star Tribune)
FF Today's Take: Harvin's played through nagging injuries time and time again this season, but his status for Sunday's NFC title game could really be up in the air if the pain doesn't subside soon.
| | Forte Undergoes Arthroscopic Surgery -- Thu Jan 21 8:30 pm --
Bears RB Hopes To Bounce Back From Disappointing Season | Bears running back Matt Forte had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee within the last two weeks, according to multiple sources.
The clean-up procedure followed a post-season MRI. Forte sprained the medial collateral ligament in his knee during the Bears' 25-19 victory at Seattle in Week 3, but it is unclear if the surgery stems from that specific injury.
Although Forte ran better toward the end of the season, he averaged just 3.6 yards per carry, down from his 3.9-yard average as a rookie. He finished with 929 rushing yards on 258 carries as the Bears ranked 29th in the league. Forte ran for 1,238 yards on 316 carries as a rookie the year before. As a receiver, he had 57 catches for 471 yards in 2009 against 63 for 477 in his first season.
Forte also suffered a partially torn hamstring during offseason workouts before the '09 season. (Chicago Tribune)
FF Today's Take: While the Bears' o-line was horrible at run blocking in 2009 and the team as a whole lost confidence in former OC Ron Turner, it was clear Forte was far from 100%. Chicago has yet to replace Turner, so it is unclear just how much of a bounceback candidate he will be next year. Nevertheless, expect Forte to be on a number of undervalued lists as we enter the 2010 season.
| | Trio Of Vikings' Standouts Miss Practice -- Thu Jan 21 6:00 pm --
Williams, Edwards, Harvin All Sit Out Thursday | Just three days away from the NFC title game, the Minnesota Vikings' injury situation isn't looking any better.
Defensive tackle Kevin Williams (WR, DL, DB, DB) and defensive end Ray Edwards missed their second straight practice on Thursday because of knee trouble.
Receiver and kick returner Percy Harvin also was not present. After practicing on Wednesday, he got another migraine headache, a problem that has plagued him all season.
Harvin missed a game against Cincinnati in December because of the headaches and visited the Mayo Clinic to address the recurring issue. While Harvin has been headache-free for more than a month, coach Brad Childress said it was unrealistic to think that the problem had been solved. (vikings.com)
FF Today's Take: Friday practices are usually pretty telling as to whether or not players will play on Sunday, so stay tuned. Either way, these absences will not help the Vikings' defense, who already had their hands full trying to slow down the league's best offense in the Saints with everybody healthy. As for Harvin, even though he didn't play much of a role vs. Dallas in the divisional round, he is still a vital part of the offense and could be the difference as to whether or not the Vikings' offense can keep pace with the Saints on Sunday.
| | Panthers RB Stewart Opts For Surgery -- Wed Jan 20 6:10 pm --
On Ailing Achilles | Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart said today on his twitter account that he's undergoing surgery on his foot today. He played last season with ongoing pain in his Achilles, but led the team in rushing with 1,133 yards. He didn't finish the final game against New Orleans, saying he "re-tweaked" the Achilles during the game. (The Charlotte Observer)
FF Today's Take: Achilles surgeries are usually fairly serious, but Stewart's agent is reportedly claiming that his client will be ready for the Panthers mini-camp in May. Still, you can bet it will hurt the dynamic running back's 2010 fantasy draft ranking.
| | Raiders Actively Pursuing HC Candidates -- Wed Jan 20 2:00 am --
Jim Fassel, CFL's Marc Trestman Among Them | Raiders owner Al Davis has interviewed prospective head coaches for more than two weeks, two league sources told The Chronicle, in the event he decides to fire Tom Cable.
Two people on his interview list have been identified as former Giants coach Jim Fassel, who now coaches UFL champion Las Vegas, and former Raiders offensive coordinator Marc Trestman, the head coach of CFL champion Montreal.
Several sources, including one within the organization, believe Davis may re-interview 2009 candidates Kevin Gilbride, the Giants' offensive coordinator, and Winston Moss, a Packers assistant head coach, if he hasn't already.
Moss and Gilbride interviewed for the head-coaching vacancy last year. Gilbride is believed to be the finalist who lost out to Cable. Fassel reportedly wrote to Davis asking for the job, and interviewed for the position in 2007. (San Francisco Chronicle)
FF Today's Take: Good ole Al. It's not uncommon for teams to put feelers out for the next head coach even while the current one is still on staff, but only the Raiders seem to make it so public. And where does this leave Cable? Several NFL teams would probably love to hire him as an OL coach should he get fired soon, but if this drags on much longer, he may have to sit out 2010. Fassel is a known quantity while Trestman served on Oakland's offensive staff from 2001-03 and favors wide-open offenses. Moss has been on Davis' radar for some time as well.
| | Raiders To Interview Hue Jackson -- Tue Jan 19 11:00 pm --
Al Davis To Speak With QB Coach For Unknown Position | In the continuing odd world of the Oakland Raiders, the team asked for and received permission to interview Baltimore Ravens quarterbacks coach Hue Jackson for an unspecified position, a league source told ESPN.
Jackson has aspired to become a head coach, but Oakland also has been seeking someone that could work with and develop former No. 1 overall pick JaMarcus Russell.
When the Raiders will interview Jackson is uncertain. What they're interviewing him for is uncertain. When there will be word on head coach Tom Cable's fate also is uncertain.
Cable was scheduled to meet with Raiders owner Al Davis last week, but the meeting never occurred. The staff's future remains up in the air until that meeting happens.
Cable's job is in question after he went 5-11 in his first full season as coach and failed to develop Russell into a legitimate NFL quarterback. Cable is 9-19 since replacing Lane Kiffin early in the 2008 season, leading the Raiders to their NFL-worst seventh straight season with at least 11 losses. (ESPN.com)
FF Today's Take: In the twisted mind of Al Davis, it appears only he and Jackson know what position the Ravens' assistant may be interviewing for. Jackson was lauded for his work with Chad Ochocinco and T.J. Houshmandzadeh several years ago before joining the ill-fated staff of Bobby Petrino in Atlanta. Since then, he had overseen the development of Joe Flacco. A promotion to offensive coordinator would be a logical next step, but as we know by now, Davis has no problem offering his head-coaching job to someone with limited or no coordinating - much less head-coaching - experience.
| | McAllister To Officially Retire -- Tue Jan 19 9:00 pm --
Will Serve As Hononary Captain Again Vs. Minnesota | Deuce McAllister will announce his retirement from football on Tuesday.
The New Orleans Saints need McAllister’s roster position to sign a wide receiver after an injury to Robert Meachem makes him questionable for Sunday’s NFC Championship Game against the Minnesota Vikings.
McAllister, 31, had been idle since the end of the 2008 season before being re-instated to the Saints roster last Friday, the day before the Saints defeated Arizona 45-14 in an NFC playoff game. McAllister was declared inactive for the game but led the Saints onto the Louisiana Superdome field to thunderous cheers and also was one of the Saints captains. (Jackson Clarion-Ledger)
FF Today's Take: A mere formality for New Orleans' all-time leader in rushing yards and touchdowns. Some reports had him 30 pounds over his usual playing weight when he signed last week, but his knees are what is bringing his career to an end. Originally drafted in the first round to complement Ricky Williams (RB, RB), McAllister exploded onto the scene in his second season as one of the league's best all-purpose backs for three seasons before injuries robbed him of his original speed and quickness.
| | Shaun Rogers A Bad Fit In Cleveland? -- Tue Jan 19 8:00 pm --
Numbers Suggest A Move Could Be Made | Here are the raw numbers: In the first 11 games with Shaun Rogers at nose tackle, the Browns allowed 155 yards per game rushing. That was near the bottom of the league. In the last five with Ahtyba Rubin, it was 111 yards. With Rogers, they allowed 13 rushing touchdowns in 11 games; with Rubin, it was two in five games. Maybe part of the reason for the improvement was David Bowens' move from outside to inside linebacker to replace the injured Eric Barton. But it also is clear that Rubin made an impact on the run defense.
So where does that leave the Browns with Rogers? He is an impressive physical talent. He can block extra points and field goals. He can rush the quarterback. He made the Pro Bowl in 2004, 2005 and 2008. But the current coaching staff believes Rogers has a tendency to "free-lance," not sticking with the scheme and covering the middle of the line. This season, he did not make many big plays -- only 27 tackles and 2.0 sacks in those 11 games. In 2008, it was 73 tackles and 4.5 sacks in 16 games. (Cleveland Plain-Dealer)
FF Today's Take: Of the five opponents that Cleveland faced with Rubin as the NT, only Jacksonville (10th) and Kansas City (11th) finished in the top half of the league in rushing. However, a move to DE is not out of the question for Rogers, who often requires a double team. And, as the article suggests, a trade is also a possibility because Rogers is one of the few players currently on the roster who could command mulitple draft picks.
| | 'Boys Trying To Keep Phillips Long-Term -- Tue Jan 19 5:30 pm --
Two-Or-Three-Year Extension Reportedly In Works | Not only is head coach Wade Phillips returning for the 2010 season, he might be with the Dallas Cowboys even longer.
Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones told ESPN that he's working on a contract extension for Phillips. The team has already decided to pick up Phillips' team-option for 2010, but Jones wants the coach back for 2011 as well.
Jones has been consistent in saying he values what Phillips has done for the team this season, especially the defense. Yet he didn't make any announcements regarding a contract extension until Tuesday. (ESPN.com)
FF Today's Take: No one but Jerry Jones will ever know whether or not Phillips kept his job when the Cowboys pounded the Eagles on Wild Card Weekend, thereby ending Dallas' long playoff win drought. It's hard to argue with keeping a coach around with a .600 career winning percentage, even if he's managed a 1-5 postseason record. For the most part, Phillips' ability to turn around the defense fueled his team's late-season run, so assuming the Cowboys keep their young roster intact, the team should be in good shape going forward.
| | Dolphins Lure Nolan To Miami -- Tue Jan 19 3:00 pm --
Ex-Broncos DC Accepts Same Position In South Florida | The Miami Dolphins just announced they have indeed hired Mike Nolan to run their defense.
And so, in a span of less than 12 hours, the highly respected defensive coordinator goes from running the Denver Broncos' defense -- which struggled mightily in the season's second half -- to replacing the fired Paul Pasqualoni atop the Dolphins' defensive coaching hierarchy.
Having previously struck out in attempts to lure Al Groh (former Jets and Virginia head coach) and Keith Butler (Steelers linebackers coach) to South Florida, the Dolphins -- to borrow one of Tony Sparano's many baseball analogies -- showed a good two-strike approach. (Sun-Sentinel)
FF Today's Take: Nolan's hire caps a busy 24 or so hours for the Dolphins' franchise, which saw the team bring in ex-Giants DC Bill Sheridan as LBs coach and change the name of their stadium yet again. Regarding Nolan, he represents a huge upgrade over the fired Pasqualoni, with his work in Denver serving as proof that he is one of the best DC's in the business. In Miami, he'll have the opportunity to work with a more talented cast than he had in Denver.
| | Bills Hire Gailey As Head Coach -- Tue Jan 19 1:10 pm --
Press Conference Coming At 2 PM ET | The Buffalo Bills have hired former Dallas Cowboys and Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey as their new coach, a team source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. The team announced it would hold a news conference at its facility in Orchard Park, N.Y. at 2 p.m. ET.
The Bills are said to be impressed with how Gailey has brought teams to the playoffs with quarterbacks such as Mike Tomczak, Kordell Stewart and Jay Fiedler. In fact, Bill Cowher -- whom the Bills had been courting to replace the fired Dick Jauron -- highly recommended Gailey to the Bills. Cowher planned to make Gailey his assistant head coach/offensive coordinator if he came back. Gailey has coached in four Super Bowls and has had his teams go to the playoffs in 11 of his 15 NFL seasons. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: The Bills reportedly interviewed Bill Cowher, Mike Shanahan, Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier and Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer - all of whom declined the job. Gailey will be the fifth coach for the Bills in the last ten years.
| | L.T. Leaving San Diego? -- Mon Jan 18 1:30 pm --
Chargers Finish 31st In Rushing | On his last carry of the last game of what will surely be his last season with the San Diego Chargers, LaDainian Tomlinson was stopped for a 1-yard gain and struck by the sound of unambiguous boos. Tomlinson acknowledged that he was aware of the boos following the New York Jets’ 17-14 playoff ambush, and he attributed them to the crowd’s cumulative frustration with a cutting-edge offense suddenly gone stagnant. “I’ve heard all the speculation,” he said. “But I’ll tell you what: I’ve had a heck of a time here and if it is (the end), I’ve enjoyed the ride.” following a regular season of diminishing daylight and anticipating a $2 million roster bonus that comes due in March, Tomlinson’s showing yesterday provides the Chargers ample political cover for releasing one of the most popular players in franchise history.
That scenario has seemed highly probable since at least midseason, and it now appears all but inevitable. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
FF Today's Take: Tomlinson has been a corps player in San Diego for years but it appears his time with the Chargers is over. It's likely he will be released at some point this offseason as the Chargers address their running back and offensive line needs via free agency and the draft. Tomlinson finished 19th among fantasy RBs in 2009 thanks to his 12 total TDs but only rushed for 730 yards.
| | Williams Frustrated With Role In Offense -- Mon Jan 18 9:30 am --
Subpar Season Ends With A Zero For Dallas WR | The frustrations of Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams (WR, DB) surfaced following the team's 34-3 loss playoff to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.
Williams finished the game without a catch and was targeted only once.
When asked if the Cowboys called any plays for him, he told ESPNDallas.com, "No. Hell no." Williams has endured a subpar season in which he caught just 38 passes for 596 yards and seven touchdowns. He had four games with one catch and two in which he was shut out. Williams said he was surprised at the way his season unfolded.
(ESPN)
FF Today's Take: The emergence of Miles Austin and Williams’ propensity for dropping passes has made him an afterthought in the Dallas offense. The Cowboys gave up three draft picks for Williams and still owe him $21 million (including $9 million guaranteed for 2010) so it's highly unlikely he will be released anytime soon.
| | Cards Don't Expect Boldin To Play -- Fri Jan 15 9:30 pm --
But Hope To Have Him Healthy For Potential NFC Championship | The Arizona Cardinals are not expecting wide receiver Anquan Boldin to play in Saturday's NFC divisional playoff game against New Orleans. The Cardinals, however, have not fully abandoned hopes that Boldin will be available to play, a team source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter on Thursday. The feeling is that, if the Cardinals can beat the Saints in New Orleans, Boldin would be ready to play the NFC Championship Game. Boldin has been nursing knee and ankle injuries, but his knee is more of an issue than the ankle, and it's the main reason he missed last Sunday's victory against the Packers and the main reason he is likely to sit out Saturday against the Saints. (ESPN.com)
FF Today's Take: With Boldin now all but ruled out for tomorrow's game, fantasy owners can confidently look to Steve Breaston as a likely starter. Breaston was Kurt Warner's favorite target during Wild Card weekend with seven receptions for 125 yards and a TD. He also had one carry for 28 yards.
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