Skins Sign Rex Grossman -- Wed Mar 17 5:30 pm --
To A One-Year Contract | The Redskins have signed quarterback Rex Grossman to a one-year contract. Grossman spent last season in Houston as a backup to Matt Schaub. With the Texans, he worked under the Redskins' new offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan and also with Washington quarterback coach Matt LaFleur, so the Redskins' staff knows exactly what it's getting. On the surface, the signing might seem like a simple replacement. The team released Todd Collins (QB, LB), its long-time backup, earlier this month, and Grossman could fill that role. (Washington Post)
FF Today's Take: The former Chicago Bears' starting QB has taken on the role of journeyman backup. If the Redskins do manage to snag one of the top quarterback prospects, Sam Bradford or Jimmy Clausen, with the fourth overall pick in this year's draft, Jason Campbell could suddenly become expendable.
|  | Cards Reach Deal With QB Anderson -- Wed Mar 17 5:25 pm --
Will Likely Compete With Leinart For Starting Job | The Arizona Cardinals have agreed to terms with free-agent quarterback Derek Anderson on a two-year contract. ESPN.com reports that the deal is for $7.25 million, which includes $3.25 million guaranteed, and with incentives, would max out at $18.25 million. Anderson, recently released by the Browns, is being brought in as the No. 2 quarterback but likely will be given every chance to compete for the starting job with Matt Leinart. (Arizona Republic)
FF Today's Take: Not a bad deal for a guy who threw just three TDs and 10 interceptions last season. At the present, Leinart has the upper hand, but considering he's been a backup for nearly three full seasons and hasn't thrown a TD pass since 2008, he'll need to raise his game to take over the starting position left by Kurt Warner's retirement.
| | RB Bell Signs Offer Sheet With Eagles -- Tue Mar 16 8:05 pm --
Saints Have 7 Days To Match Offer | New Orleans Saints restricted free agent tailback Mike Bell (RB, DL) agreed to the terms of an offer sheet with the Philadelphia Eagles, his agent Josh Luchs confirmed. If the Saints want to keep him, they have seven days to match the deal. It's a one-year deal worth $1.7 million with $500,000 guaranteed, according to a league source, with incentives that could increase it above $2 million. (Times-Picayune)
FF Today's Take: If the Saints decide not to match the offer sheet, the Eagles will not owe any draft-pick compensation. Philadelphia is looking to add running back depth behind LeSean McCoy after the release of Brian Westbrook earlier this off-season.
| | Tomlinson Headed To New York -- Sun Mar 14 7:30 pm --
"It's 100 Percent," One Source Said. "Done Deal." | According to three people with knowledge of the process, Tomlinson has decided to become a New York Jet.
"It's 100 percent," one source said. "Done deal."
Sources said Tomlinson is expected to announce the decision today or tomorrow. After nine years as a San Diego icon, Tomlinson was released in February. His 2009 season saw him post career-low numbers in carries and yards, but he left the franchise holding 28 team records and as the NFL’s eighth-leading rusher all-time and third-leading touchdown scorer ever.
In New York, he will back up Shonn Greene. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
FF Today's Take: Tomlinson visited Minnesota last week discussing the option of backing up Adrian Peterson (RB, RB) for the Vikings. In the end, he will fill Thomas Jones' shoes and share the load with Shonn Greene. Tomlinson's days as a premier fantasy back are over but he'll be worthy of a mid-round pick in re-draft leagues this summer.
| | QB Brady Quinn Traded To Broncos -- Sun Mar 14 6:00 pm --
Broncos Send FB Peyton Hills & Two Draft Picks To Browns | The Denver Broncos have acquired quarterback Brady Quinn from the Cleveland Browns in exchange for fullback Peyton Hillis, a sixth-round pick in 2011 and a conditional pick in 2012. Quinn opened last season as Cleveland's starter, was benched after 10 quarters, then got his job back. He went 2-7 in nine starts. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: It had been rumored over the last couple days that Quinn could be released or traded especially with the addition of Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace, so this move isn't much of a surprise. Heading into camp, expect Orton to be the starting quarterback with Quinn filling a backup role.
| | Delhomme, Two-Year Deal With Browns -- Sun Mar 14 7:00 am --
Cancels Visit With New Orleans | Jake Delhomme has a new NFL home, and the Cleveland Browns have another new quarterback.
Delhomme, released last week by the Carolina Panthers, has agreed to terms on a two-year deal with the Browns. ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter first reported the deal, and a source told Schefter that Delhomme is scheduled to make $7 million this season, including just under $900,000 in base salary. Delhomme's agent, Rick Smith, said the 35-year-old QB would sign his contract before the club's off-season conditioning program begins. (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/ne)
FF Today's Take: The Browns have been busy making QB moves this off-season, releasing Derek Anderson, acquiring Seneca Wallace, and now adding veteran Jake Delhomme to the mix. Expect Delhomme and Wallace to battle for the starting job during training camp. Also, don't be surprised if the Browns take a QB early in the 2010 draft.
| | Redskins Sign RB Larry Johnson -- Fri Mar 12 8:20 pm --
To Three-Year Deal Worth Up To $12 Million | Free-agent RB Larry Johnson has agreed to a three-year contract worth up to $12 million with the Redskins, according to a league source. Johnson began last season as the Chiefs’ starter, but he was released after seven games following a falling out with coach Todd Haley. Johnson finished the season with the Bengals, with whom he backed up starter Cedric Benson and gained 204 yards on 46 attempts. The Redskins were looking for depth behind starter Clinton Portis, whose 2009 season was cut short by a concussion. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: Both Portis and Johnson are in a similar boat - both were once ranked among the top fantasy running backs in the NFL before suffering through injuries the past few seasons. Coach Mike Shanahan will probably be eager to get his former RB, Portis, going again but with his fragility, it'll be comforting knowing that they have a veteran like Johnson to fall back on, assuming he can stay healthy.
| | Browns Sign TE Watson -- Fri Mar 12 10:45 am --
Three-Years, $12 million | The Browns have signed unrestricted free agent tight end Ben Watson, formerly of the Patriots, to a three-year deal worth $12 million, including $6.35 million guaranteed. Watson, who spent all six of his previous seasons with the Patriots, knows Browns coach Eric Mangini and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll from their New England days. Watson, 29, was originally a first-round pick out of Georgia in 2004. In 2009, he started seven of 16 games, catching 29 passes for 404 yards and five TDs. Overall, he caught 167 passes for 2,102 yards and 20 touchdowns. "We viewed Ben as one of the top all-around tight ends in the free agent market," Browns General Manager Tom Heckert said in a statement. "Because of his athleticism and intelligence, he has proven valuable as both a receiver and blocker during his career, and has performed well in both facets." (Cleveland Plain Dealer)
FF Today's Take: Watson is a definite improvement for the Browns at the tight end position. No Browns TE has matched the five TDs Watson accumulated last year since Kellen Winslow had five during the 2007 season.
| | Jets Interested In Tomlinson -- Fri Mar 12 10:30 am --
Former MVP To Meet With Jets | LaDainian Tomlinson left Vikings headquarters Thursday without a contract and now will be wined and dined by Rex Ryan and the Jets, who are very serious about signing the future Hall of Fame running back, according to multiple league sources. The only thing that could have short-circuited the trip to New York was an 11th-hour deal with the Vikings to back up Adrian Peterson (RB, RB). Barring that, Tomlinson will meet with the Jets, who want to team the former NFL MVP with Shonn Greene. Tomlinson reportedly left Minnesota very impressed by the Vikings but wants to talk to other teams. He reportedly has visits with other teams lined up for next week and may visit the Eagles and Saints, who have former Chargers quarterback and good friend Drew Brees to recruit Tomlinson. Tomlinson has rushed for 12,490 yards and 138 touchdowns but has seen his numbers dip severely from 1,474 yards in 2007 to 1,110 yards in 2008 to 730 yards last year. (New York Daily News)
FF Today's Take: If Tomlinson's still looking to play a significant role on an NFL team, the Jets could be an ideal fit - he's likely to get more touches playing alongside a younger, less-established RB like Shonn Greene than he would playing behind Adrian Peterson (RB, RB). However, despite the Jets lengthy post-season run this past year, Tomlinson might have a better shot at winning a ring with the Vikings or Saints.
| | Mason Returns To Ravens -- Thu Mar 11 7:00 am --
Two-Years, $8 Million | The Ravens struck a two-year, $8 million agreement with Mason on Wednesday, retaining the most consistent wide receiver in team history. He will earn $3.5 million the first year. The Ravens have made three moves this offseason, and all three have involved the wide receiver position. The result: This could be the deepest wide receiver group in team history. Last month, they signed Donte' Stallworth (one year, $900,000), hoping he can become the deep threat. Last week, they traded for Anquan Boldin (four years, $28 million), hoping he can become the No. 1 receiver.
(Baltimore Sun)
FF Today's Take: Boldin and Mason are similar, possession-style receivers so it remains to be seen how the targets will be dished out. Mason (73 rec, 1,028 yds, 7 TDs) was a number 2/3 fantasy wideout last season but could easily see a decline in numbers now that Boldin and Stallworth are in the mix.
| | WR Bryant Signs With Bengals -- Wed Mar 10 5:20 pm --
Four-Year, $28 Million Deal | Antonio Bryant has agreed to a four-year deal with the Bengals worth $28 million. With incentives the deal could go to $29 million. The paperwork for the deal is still being completed. The team might not announce the deal until later today or tomorrow since coach Marvin Lewis has left for the NFL Competition Committee meetings. The eight-year veteran was considered to be the top unrestricted free agent wideout. Last year with Tampa Bay, he was hampered due to two knee injuries that happened during training camp. He played 13 games and had 39 receptions for 600 yards, an average of 15.4 yards per catch, with four touchdowns. In 2008, he enjoyed a career year with 83 receptions for 1,248 yards and seven touchdowns. Bryant arrived in town on Monday and visited the Bengals on Tuesday but did not leave with a deal. Rumors abounded that Washington and Miami were also in the running. Bryant, who turned 29 on Tuesday, was drafted by Dallas in 2002 and has also played with Cleveland and San Francisco. He would give the Bengals the deep threat they are looking desperately lacking. Carson Palmer said over the weekend that he has texted Bryant in a recruiting effort to get him to come to Cincinnati. And with Chad Ochocinco entering his 10th season and entering an option year in 2011, Bryant could eventually make a bid to possibly become the team's top receiver. (Cincinnati Enquirer)
FF Today's Take: So much for Terrel Owens joining the Bengals - Bryant's signing doesn't leave enough pigskin to go around. While Owens might have been the flashier option, Bryant is in his prime at 29 and has a number of strong years ahead of him. His best season came in 2008, when he had 83 receptions for 1248 yards and 7 TDs. QB Carson Palmer could realistically return to 30 TD range in 2010 with a tandem of talented wide receivers in Bryant and Chad Ochocinco.
| | Tomlinson Visiting Vikings Thursday -- Wed Mar 10 11:15 am --
Vikes Looking For Replacement For Taylor | Running back LaDainian Tomlinson will make a free-agent visit Thursday to the Vikings, according to Sports Illustrated. Tomlinson could be a replacement for Chester Taylor, who signed a four-year, $12.5 million deal with Chicago on Friday. Tomlinson was released by San Diego, so he wouldn't count toward the restrictions the Vikings are facing in free agency as one of the final four teams in the playoffs. Tomlinson averaged 3.3 yards per carry last season, and there are concerns about his explosiveness after nine years and 2,880 carries in San Diego. But as a third-down back, the role the Vikings must fill with Taylor gone, he could be a good fit in Minnesota. He has 530 career catches, averaging 59 catches per season. Tomlinson has lost 12 fumbles in his career, so his ability to hang onto the ball could be attractive for the Vikings, who have watched Adrian Peterson (RB, RB) lose 13 fumbles in three seasons. (St. Paul Pioneer Press)
FF Today's Take: Minnesota could be an intriguing destination for the veteran Tomlinson. Playing on an offense with fellow former MVP winner Brett Favre ("if" he does return), the Vikings can offer L.T. one thing that many other suitors will be unable to match - a legitimate chance at winning a Super Bowl.
| | Owens Visiting Bengals -- Wed Mar 10 11:00 am --
Owens: "I Think Carson Is One Of Those Underrated Quarterbacks" | Less than four hours after Antonio Bryant departed from Paul Brown Stadium, the public courtship nearly five weeks in the making officially began when Terrell Owens landed at Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky International Airport. Owens, who arrived from Los Angeles, had dinner with the coaching staff tonight and will visit the Bengals offices tomorrow. Said Owens after arriving: “There’s always been the speculation and perception out there (about coming to Cincinnati) and Chad kick started it and lobbied to have me here as a teammate and I welcome it with open arms.” Ochocinco started the T.O. talk during Super Bowl week in Miami. As receivers started to come off the market when free agency began last Friday, Owens started to look like a more viable option. Bryant, who celebrated his 29th birthday on Tuesday, left town Tuesday afternoon without a contract. He is still considered to be the number one option but will be visiting other teams this week. Enter Owens who had only 55 receptions for 829 yards and five touchdowns last season in Buffalo. “By my standards I didn’t have a great year. Could I have done better? Yes,” Owens said. “A lot of the offense, everyone’s numbers were down across the board. The only person I feel had a great year was Fred Jackson. Considering the opportunities I had and I got my season was OK.” While his production was the lowest in a full season since his second season in the league in 1997 with San Francisco, the 15-year veteran can give the Bengals a deep threat that they don’t have right now. Last year, Owens had 10 receptions of 25 yards or more including five that went for over 40. The Bengals as a team had 12 and five respectively. While Owens has had run-ins with some of his former quarterbacks – Jeff Garcia and Donovan McNabb come to mind – the 15-year veteran said he would love to have the opportunity to work with Palmer. Said Owens of Palmer: “I think Carson is one of those underrated quarterbacks. His body of work speaks for itself. Obviously I also relish the moment I can play with a quarterback with the capability and skill set of Carson’s. If this is it I’m looking forward to the opportunity.” (Cincinnati Enquirer)
FF Today's Take: Best case scenario, if Owens does end up signing with Cincy, is that he gives Palmer a strong, 6'3" throwing option on deep routes. Worst case scenario, and perhaps the more likely of the two, is that the Bengals' locker room isn't big enough for both Owens and Ochocinco's sizeable egos, and the offense implodes causing the Bengals to miss the postseason.
| | Chiefs Add Veteran RB Jones -- Tue Mar 9 5:10 pm --
Two-Years, $5 Million | Kansas City signed running back Thomas Jones to a two-year deal worth $5 million, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. Jones was released by the Jets last week after being due a $3 million roster bonus on top of a $2.8 million base salary this season. He and the Jets failed to reach a compromise on restructuring his contract; the team wanted him to take a pay cut. After spending Tuesday with the Washington Redskins, Pittsburgh Steelers free-agent running back Willie Parker is scheduled to visit the Chiefs on Thursday, a league source told Schefter. The Chiefs are looking long and hard at veteran running backs. They also met with Justin Fargas on Tuesday, according to a league source. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: While fantasy owners don't want to hear this, the Chiefs needed a solid backup to Jamaal Charles. Jones set career highs in yards (1402) and touchdowns (14) in 2009 and will be solid backup to Charles who exploded down the stretch and will still likely be a top-20 pick in fantasy drafts this summer.
| | Browns Acquire QB Wallace From SEA -- Mon Mar 8 8:00 pm --
For Late-Round Draft Pick In 2011 | Mike Holmgren moved a little bit of his West Coast offense East on Monday when he traded for his former protege, Seattle backup quarterback Seneca Wallace.
The Browns surrendered a late-round pick in 2011 for Wallace, a league source told The Plain Dealer. That means the Browns still have 11 picks in 2010, including nine in the first five rounds. Wallace, 29, is expected to come in as a backup, meaning the Browns could still deal for a starter. But Wallace can play other positions, including receiver and returner. (Cleveland Plain Dealer)
FF Today's Take: This all but spells the end for Derek Anderson who is due a $2 million roster bonus on March 19th. Mike Holmgren is obviously familiar with Wallace's skills from their days in Seattle but it's likely Wallace will fill a backup role to Brady Quinn or perhaps a current free agent.
| | Vick Receives $1.5 M Roster Bonus -- Mon Mar 8 11:30 am --
Eagles Prepared To Keep All Three QBs | The Philadelphia Eagles have decided to exercise a $1.5 million roster bonus for Michael Vick, signaling they will likely keep the quarterback along with Donovan McNabb and Kevin Kolb, according to several reports. The bonus, which was to kick in Tuesday unless they released him, would be part of Vick's $5.25 million salary for next season. Eagles coach Andy Reid, in an interview Friday with a Philadelphia radio station, said there was "a pretty good chance" the Eagles would keep all three quarterbacks for next season, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
"I haven't changed my opinion, and I don't think they have, either," Reid said on WPEN-FM, referring to the Eagles' front office. "They've agreed, and mentioned some of the same kinds of things I've said -- that Donovan's our quarterback."
(ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Unless a team comes along with a sweetheart deal for Donovan McNabb, it appears the Eagles will keep all three QBs in 2010. The Eagles brass is content with making another run with McNabb under center, but fantasy owners should value Kevin Kolb in fantasy drafts this summer as he will get the majority of playing time, not Vick, should McNabb miss time due to injury.
| | Cardinals Deal Boldin To Ravens -- Fri Mar 5 5:30 pm --
Arizona Recieves 3rd & 4th-Round Picks | The Ravens made a bold move to improve their passing game, trading for Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Anquan Boldin.
It is believed the Ravens sent third- and fourth-round picks to the Cardinals in exchange for Boldin and a fifth-round pick. According to ESPN, Boldin has agreed to a new four-year, $28 million contract. It is believed the Ravens beat out the Kansas City Chiefs for the three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver. The Ravens were interested in trading for Boldin last season, but the Cardinals were demanding first- and third-round picks. Their asking price reportedly dropped this offseason because Boldin will turn 30 this fall and enters the final year of his contract. (Baltimore Sun)
FF Today's Take: Boldin has averaged 83 receptions and 6 touchdowns in his career and with Derrick Mason an unrestricted free agent, Boldin could become the main receiving target for Flacco and the Ravens in 2010. The team also added Donte Stallworth last month to improve depth at the position.
| | Bears Land Julius Peppers -- Fri Mar 5 4:20 pm --
DL Signs Six-Year Deal With Chicago | The Bears and Julius Peppers finalized a six-year deal to bring the top free agent in 2010 to Chicago, according to a source. Peppers was looking for at least $12 million a year in the early part of the contract. The agreement could be worth $40 million over the first three years. The 6-foot-7, 283-pound Peppers is a five-time Pro Bowler who recorded 10.5 sacks with two interceptions and five forced fumbles last season. "If we bring in Julius Peppers, that could help us a lot," Bears defensive end Alex Brown said Thursday on "The Waddle & Silvy Show" on ESPN 1000. "The guy's a monster, he's an animal. He's the biggest guy and fastest guy I think I've ever seen. "He's as gifted as [linebacker Brian] Urlacher, I think. He's just about 30 pounds heavier. He's unbelievable." (ESPN.com)
FF Today's Take: The Bears have made a huge splash on the first day of NFL free agency, first acquiring Chester Taylor and now Julius Peppers. The addition of Peppers gives the Bears' defense a stud on their front line in what is shaping up to be a very competitive NFC North.
| | Bears Sign RB Taylor -- Fri Mar 5 4:00 pm --
Four-Year, $12.5 Million Deal | Chester Taylor has agreed to terms on a four-year contract worth $12.5 million, according to a league source. Taylor will be guaranteed $7 million, an unprecedented amount for a running back who turns 31 in September. But Taylor has only started one full NFL season, gaining 1,216 rushing yards in 2006, before Adrian Peterson (RB, RB) took over as the Minnesota Vikings' No. 1 tailback. Taylor, though, remained a valued part of the Vikings offense, and he completed his four-year, $14.1 million with the club. (Chicago Sun-Times)
FF Today's Take: It appears Taylor's being brought in to shoulder some of Matt Forte's heavy workload. Taylor is a complementary-type RB who's also a capable receiving option out of the backfield. He's averaged 40.2 receptions per year over his last five seasons.
| | Lions Sign Kyle Vanden Bosch -- Fri Mar 5 3:20 pm --
DL Signs Four-Year Deal | Coach Jim Schwartz got his man today when the Detroit Lions agreed to a four-year deal with defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch. He did it with an aggressive personal touch, expressing confidence in Vanden Bosch and assuring him that the Lions have a larger rebuilding plan. Schwartz showed up at Vanden Bosch’s house in Nashville, Tenn., as the free-agent market opened at midnight. Schwartz was Vanden Bosch’s defensive coordinator for four years with the Titans. “Kyle was our No. 1 priority in free agency,” Schwartz told si.com. “I sat in his driveway and waited until midnight ET to send him a text and tell him I was there. I think he is going to be a perfect fit for our defense, not only as a player but as a leader for our young players.”
Vanden Bosch got the message. “He said, ‘I could be anywhere in the country right now, but I am here because you’re the guy I want,’ ” Vanden Bosch told the Tennessean. “Talking with him about the direction they are going, I am excited about it. I am excited about getting to a new team and with a new city. It will be a new challenge for me.” Vanden Bosch, 31, went to three Pro Bowls the past five years with the Titans, after beginning his career with the Cardinals. His production has slipped the past two seasons -- from 12 sacks in 2007 to 4 1/2 in ’08 to three in ’09. But Vanden Bosch went from 12 1/2 sacks in 2005 to 6 1/2 in ’06, then back up to 12 in ’07. Schwartz told Vanden Bosch he sees him as more than a mentor who can establish his system in Detroit. (Detroit Free Press)
FF Today's Take: With Burleson and now Vanden Bosch, the Lions have been among the most active buyers on the opening day of NFL free agency. Vanden Bosch joins an inexperienced Lions' pass rush that ranked 29th in the NFL last season with just 26 sacks. The veteran should help increase pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
| | Saints Release DL Charles Grant -- Fri Mar 5 11:45 am --
Veteran LB Simoneau And G Nesbit Also Let Go | No member of the 2009 New Orleans Saints had been around longer than defensive end Charles Grant, and certainly none had experienced more highs and lows than the former first-round draft pick, who began the season by referring to himself as "one of the last of the Mohicans around here." Defensive end Charles Grant was the longest-tenured player on the New Orleans Saints' roster.But that eight-year roller coaster ride will come to an end Friday when the Saints release Grant on the first day of the new league year. The team announced its plan to cut Grant on Thursday, while also announcing that it had released guard Jamar Nesbit and veteran linebacker Mark Simoneau. None of the decisions comes as a surprise, with all three veterans' salaries having exceeded their levels of productivity in recent years. None of the three players was on the field for Super Bowl XLIV, with Grant and Simoneau on injured reserve and Nesbit declared inactive before the game. He said the team didn't discuss any plans to bring back Grant, 31, at a reduced salary in the future. "It wasn't a situation where we were just looking to reduce salary," Loomis said of Grant, who was due $4.25 million in salary and bonuses this year with even greater increases scheduled for 2011, 2012 and 2013. "I think a change will be good for him. Hopefully he'll be able to hook on with another club." (New Orleans Times-Picayune)
FF Today's Take: While Grant's veteran presence will be missed, his contributions on the Saints' pass rush will likely be taken over by Bobby McCray, who started throughout the playoffs while Grant sat out with a triceps tear.
| | Broncos Sign RB Arrington -- Fri Mar 5 11:25 am --
To One-Year Deal | J.J. Arrington was gone but the Broncos' interest in the former Arizona Cardinals back was not forgotten. Twice, the Broncos reached an agreement in principal with Arrington last year on a conditional four-year, $10 million contract that would have guaranteed him $3 million had he made their season-opening roster. Twice, the deal effectively fell through because of the condition of Arrington's right knee. Microfracture surgery finally took and after year-long rehabilitation under the supervision of Dr. James Andrews, Arrington is back with the Broncos after agreeing to a one-year contract. The league minimum salary for players with four years of service time is $635,000. Arrington will report for the start of the Broncos' offseason conditioning program on March 15. "This has been in the works for a long time," said J.R. Rickert, Arrington's agent. "It's really been in the works since J.J. had to go back to get his knee taken care of last year. The Broncos said then that as soon as he could pass a physical, they would welcome him back. Other clubs were interested but J.J.'s loyalty was to Josh McDaniels."
(Denver Post)
FF Today's Take: The largely unproven Arrington will be in tough battling it out with Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter for touches, but he comes cheaply and the added pressure of a new RB could provide a competitive boost for Moreno and Buckhalter.
| | Burleson Signs With Lions -- Fri Mar 5 11:10 am --
Five-Year, $25 Million Deal | The Lions have signed wide receiver Nate Burleson to a five-year, $25 million deal that includes $11 million guaranteed, finding someone to complement Calvin Johnson just two hours into free agency. Burleson, 28, caught 63 passes for 812 yards and three touchdowns last season. He spent the past four years with the Seahawks after three years with the Vikings. The first two years of Burleson’s career, 2003 and ’04, his offensive coordinator was current Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan. The best season of his career was ’04, when he caught 68 passes for 1,006 yards and nine touchdowns. (Detroit Free Press)
FF Today's Take: Burleson gives second year QB Matthew Stafford another capable receiver to work with. Burleson's rarely spectacular, but should be good for something in the 50 catch, 700 yard range. However, he's struggled to find the endzone during his career, registering just two seasons with more than three TDs.
| | Colts Ink Brackett To 5-Year Deal -- Fri Mar 5 11:00 am --
Worth $33 Million, Including $12 Million Signing Bonus | Linebacker Gary Brackett has agreed to a five-year contract that will keep him with the Indianapolis Colts a source with knowledge of the situation said this morning. Had Brackett not been signed after discussions that went deep into Thursday night, he would have become an unrestricted free agent and been free to sign with any team. Brackett is a seven-year veteran who has been the Colts starting middle linebacker since 2005 and their defensive captain since 2007. (Indianapolis Star)
FF Today's Take: Along with Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, Brackett is a game-changer on the Colts' defense. He's eclipsed the 80-tackles mark in four out of the past five seasons.
| | Panthers Cut Jake Delhomme -- Thu Mar 4 11:00 pm --
Matt Moore Takes Over As The #1 QB In Carolina | Despite their intense loyalty to Jake Delhomme over the years, including when his critics were screaming loudest, the Carolina Panthers made the painful move Thursday night to cut ties with one of their signature players and release their veteran quarterback. They’re still on the hook for nearly $13 million in guaranteed money from the contract extension they gave him last spring, but making the move now keeps them from suffering any salary cap consequences because the NFL has entered into an uncapped year. In the short term, the move clears the way for Matt Moore to take over as the starter, after he was given the highest restricted free agent tender Wednesday. (Charlotte Observer)
FF Today's Take: Delhomme, 35, had his worst year as a pro in 2009 - finishing 4-7 as a starter, throwing 18 interceptions with only 8 touchdowns. The release of Delhomme vaults Matt Moore into a starting role but also means the Panthers will be searching for a QB either in free agency or the draft.
| | Cromartie Traded To Jets -- Thu Mar 4 10:00 pm --
Chargers Receive 2011 Third-Round Draft Pick | The San Diego Chargers have traded Antonio Cromartie to the New York Jets for a 2011 third-round draft pick that could turn into a second-round pick, league sources told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.
Cromartie has one year left on his contract and there are no plans for his deal to be redone now. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Cromartie is talented but apparently wore out his welcome in San Diego with off-field issues and seemingly lack of interest on the field. His five interceptions over the last two years is a far cry from his ten INTs in 2007 when he was considered one of the best corners in the league. Should he turn his act around, the Jets will have the best starting CB duo in recent memory.
| | Bengals Release WR Coles -- Thu Mar 4 4:30 pm --
Veteran Wideout Lasted One Year In Cincinnati | The Laveranues Coles experiment lasted only one year for the Cincinnati Bengals. The team announced Thursday that his contract was terminated. Coles signed a four-year, $27.5 million contract last season after the Bengals lost wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh to the Seahawks in free agency.
He caught only 43 passes for 514 yards last year and he didn't separate from cornerbacks as well as Carson Palmer and others in the organization wanted.
The 32-year-old Coles was scheduled to make $4.75 million this season. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Coles started 13 games for the Bengals in 2009 but rarely cracked the starting lineup for any fantasy team. He ranked 56th among wide receivers with 514 yards and 5 touchdowns. Coles had nine games in which he had two or fewer receptions. The Bengals will look to improve their wide receiver corps this offseason. Currently Andre Caldwell and Matt Jones are behind Chad Ochocinco on the depth chart.
| | Chargers Tender RB Sproles -- Thu Mar 4 4:20 pm --
SD Would Receive 1st And 3rd-Round Draft Picks | The San Diego Chargers changed their minds and placed the first- and third-round tender on running back Darren Sproles on Thursday, the team announced. A week ago, the team said it would not tender Sproles, allowing him to become a free agent. On Thursday, the Chargers decided they couldn't afford to lose Sproles after releasing LaDainian Tomlinson. Sproles would earn $7.2897 million in 2010 if he signs the tender. The Chargers would have seven days to match an offer if a team tries to sign him.
If it doesn't match, San Diego would receive a first- and a third-round draft choice from the team that signs him. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Keeping Sproles a restricted free agent is a good move for San Diego. Releasing Tomlinson and Michael Bennett (RB, DL) has left them thin at the position; something they will likely address in the 2010 draft. Perhaps finding a trade partner for DB Antonio Cromartie is proving to be difficult?
| | Peppers Interested In Joining Bears -- Wed Mar 3 8:20 pm --
But Likely To Receive More Lucrative Offers From Other Teams | As the Bears move closer to free agency, the player believed to be their top target apparently has a strong mutual interest he expressed as early as last year. When defensive end Julius Peppers wanted out of Carolina after the 2008 season, the fourth ``mystery'' team on his wish list was the Bears, a league source familiar with the five-time Pro Bowl selection's trade demands told the Tribune. The others teams were identified as the Cowboys, Eagles and Patriots. Three of those teams — the Bears, Patriots and Eagles — are expected to make a serious run at Peppers when the unrestricted free agent hits the market at 11:01 p.m. Thursday. The free-spending Redskins also figure to make a play, which could take the price tag out of the Bears' range. Peppers could command up to $15 million per year. Peppers desire to play in Chicago still exists a year later, according to the source. He developed a great respect for Bears coach Lovie Smith and the tradition of the organization simply based on conversations with ex-Bears Muhsin Muhammad and Dante Wesley, Panthers teammates last season. Although there has been talk of Peppers wanting to join a contender, he appears willing to join a franchise at least making the effort to improve. (Chicago Tribune)
FF Today's Take: There isn't an NFL team that wouldn't welcome Pepper's game-altering pass rushing abilities, but only a wealthy few can afford his steep price tag. He'll be arguably the most sought after unrestricted free agent this offseason.
| | Vick Interested In Playing For Panthers -- Wed Mar 3 8:00 pm --
Panthers Might Not Be Interested in Vick | Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick said on a weekend radio appearance that if he could choose to play for any team in the NFL, it would be the Carolina Panthers. Appearing on the Gangsta Grillz radio program on Atlanta station Hot 107.9 FM, Vick was asked by host DJ Drama to respond to a listener question regarding where he’d like to play. “If I could play for any team in the league, it would probably be two teams, but if I had to pick one, it would probably be the Carolina Panthers,” Vick said. When asked why Carolina, Vick responded: “Well, you know, it’s close to home. I like the uniforms. You get to play against Atlanta twice a year. Ain’t nothing better than playing against your former team, right? So, yeah, that would be a good look, it would be a good look.” The Panthers weren’t interested in Vick last preseason when he was looking to sign with a team and are not expectetd to be interested now. They enter next season with veterans Jake Delhomme and restricted free agent Matt Moore and appear highly interested in picking a quarterback in April’s draft. (Charlotte Observer)
FF Today's Take: While the Panthers might not go out of their way to acquire the versatile quarterback, there will likely be other suitors, which could include the QB-strapped Oakland Raiders, St. Louis Rams, and Buffalo Bills.
| | Peterson Hopes Favre Stays 2 More Years -- Wed Mar 3 7:20 pm --
"I Think We Could Win Back-To-Back Super Bowls" | It seems that running back Adrian Peterson (RB, RB) isn't simply hoping Brett Favre plays one more season for the Vikings. Peterson told OKBlitz.com that he wants Favre to play two more seasons and win consecutive Super Bowls. (No small task for a franchise that has yet to win one.) "I hope he comes back for another year or two, gives us another two years," Peterson said. "I think we could win back-to-back Super Bowls. I'd take one. But the talent we have on both sides of the football with Favre -- just the talent we have on offense, defense all phases -- I feel like we can go as high as we want." Peterson called Favre, "A real genuine guy, down to earth," adding, "He's funny. He could have been a comedian." Peterson, of course, wants Favre to keep his focus on football after the quarterback led the Vikings to the NFC title game against New Orleans this past season. The Vikings lost to the Saints in overtime. Peterson is right in that the Vikings are retaining the nucleus of a talented roster. "I know and that's something you think about," Peterson said of why it makes sense for Favre to return. "But you never know with Favre what he's going to do. That's good that he didn't take too many big hits throughout the year. The last game he kind of took a couple of big hits [against the Saints] to remind him this is what it's all about. But hopefully we can get him back and go on this run again and complete it this time." (Minneapolis Star Tribune)
FF Today's Take: As if Brett Favre ever needed further prodding to play another year of football. While a healthy Favre certainly puts the Vikings' offense in prime position to dominate, as we witnessed this season, the accomplished QB will be 42 years old two seasons from now.
| | Jets And RB Jones To Part Ways -- Sun Feb 28 1:10 pm --
$3 Million Roster Bonus Due March 9th | Running back Thomas Jones will not rework his contract, according to a source close to the situation, and thus likely will be released by the Jets this week. The Jets wanted the veteran, who is scheduled to make $2.8 million in base salary in 2010, to take a pay cut. Jones, 31, rushed for a career-high 1,402 yards last season, but wasn’t productive during the playoffs because of a nagging knee injury.
Jones, who was due a $3 million roster bonus, is considered expendable by the Jets because of the emergence of then-rookie Shonn Greene during the postseason. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: The Jets have the luxury of not forking over the $3 million bonus due March 9th thanks to Greene and the expected return of Leon Washington, who suffered a broken leg back in October. The market is now flush of veteran running backs as Jones, 31, joins LaDainian Tomlinson, Jamal Lewis and Brian Westbrook available to the highest bidder.
| | Bills Won't Offer T.O. A Contract -- Sun Feb 28 7:00 am --
Wide Receiver Will Become Free Agent | Terrell Owens is on the market after the Buffalo Bills announced Saturday they do not plan to offer him a contract. Owens, who will turn 37 in December, caught 55 passes for 829 yards and five touchdowns in his only season in Buffalo. He also ran for a touchdown.
"I would like to thank the great fans in Buffalo, Ralph Wilson & the Bills organization for all their supports this past season," Owens said on Twitter. (ESPN)
FF Today's Take: Chan Gainley and the new Bills brass have decided not resign the 36-year-old wide receiver who caught 55 passes for 829 yards and five touchdowns in 2009. The Ravens could be the only option for Owens. Head coach John Harbaugh is familiar with T.O. after spending time with him in Philadelphia and the Ravens only legitimate threat at wide receiver, Derrick Mason, is set to become an unrestricted free agent.
| | Bush In Saints Plans -- Sat Feb 27 1:00 pm --
Payton: "He'll Be With Us" | Despite speculation that his $8 million base salary for 2010 might prompt the New Orleans Saints to release Reggie Bush, team sources and two sources close to the four-year veteran said late Friday that the former USC star will return to the defending Super Bowl champions, likely under his current contract. "He'll be with us. He's not going anywhere," Saints coach Sean Payton told the New Orleans Times-Picayune at the NFL combine in Indianapolis. "Mickey [Loomis] and I talked the other day about it. We value what this player brings, what he's been in three of the last four years ... really in all four seasons here. So I think we've spent more time in the other areas than we have discussing his status. So he's full speed ahead, he finished strong, and he'll be with us." (ESPN.com)
FF Today's Take: Bush was an instrumental part of New Orleans Saints Super Bowl winning team and number one ranked offense this past season. He posted a career high 5.6 yards per carry, and was frequently used as a third-down slot receiver in 2009.
| |  Ryan Fully Recovered From Turf Toe -- Sat Feb 27 12:45 pm --
Falcons QB Running At Full Speed | Falcons coach Mike Smith said that quarterback Matt Ryan is fully recovered from his "turf toe" injury and is back running at full speed. Ryan missed most of one game and two full games with the injury. He rarely practiced over the final six games, but started the final three. "We think that Matt will be ready to go on March 22 when we open up our offseason conditioning program," Smith said Friday at the NFL scouting combine. "Matt had a significant toe injury there at the end of the season."
Initially, the Falcons thought Ryan would be out six weeks. He was injured on the first series of the Tampa Bay game Nov. 29. Chris Redman started against Philadelphia and New Orleans. Ryan came back to lead the Falcons to victories over the New York Jets, Buffalo and Tampa Bay. "We don't anticipate him having any setbacks between now and when we start on the 22nd of March," Smith said. "He's actually back to running." (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
FF Today's Take: This is encouraging news for the Falcons, as Ryan's nagging toe really seemed to hamper his abilities during the second half of last season.
| | Browns Unsure Of QB, But Want Harrison -- Sat Feb 27 12:00 pm --
Quinn Or Anderson Likely Gone, And RB Harrison To Get Tender | Browns President Mike Holmgren is not ready to clarify his nagging quarterback situation, but he admitted Friday that the odds are long that both Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn will be back. "I think it's a long shot," he said after addressing the national media at the NFL Scouting Combine. "Never say never. But I've gone on record as saying I don't want a quarterback competition. They did that last year. And that didn't work out."
Holmgren said that "in a perfect world," he would evaluate a quarterback over 32 games in the same system. Quinn has started 12 games in two different systems, Anderson 39 in three. "You can't wait too much longer," he said of choosing a permanent starter. "I want to turn the team around very quickly. "Somebody's got to play a full season. Not two games here, out two games, in three games. . . . It doesn't work. So pick one, commit, coach him up, build confidence, make him better and then surround him with good people." Holmgren tipped his hand a little about upcoming draft plans when he said the quarterback -- and offense in general -- needs depth, including in the offensive line, depth at running back and speed at wide receiver. He said he intends to tender restricted free agent Jerome Harrison "something to make it very difficult for somebody to come and get him," but he hedged on whether he thought Harrison could carry the full load over 16 games. (Cleveland Plain Dealer)
FF Today's Take: Neither QB experienced much success last season, as Anderson and Quinn achieved QB ratings of 42.1 and 67.2 respectively. There have been rumblings about the Browns having interest in one of the Eagles' quarterbacks, so they may choose to go in another direction altogether. Even with intentions of making Harrison their starting RB, Holmgren has said he also plans on bringing someone else in to help shoulder the Browns' rushing attack.
| | Texans Eyeing Tomlinson? -- Sat Feb 27 12:00 pm --
"We're Entertaining The Idea" | The Houston Texans have been mentioned as a potential destination for former Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson, a Texas native. But even though the Texans philosophically favor adding younger players, GM Rick Smith didn't dismiss adding Tomlinson to a team that struggled to run the ball in 2009. "We're entertaining the idea," Smith acknowledged at the scouting combine Friday. "He's certainly had a wonderful career and still has some productive play in his future." Tomlinson has said he wants to join a Super Bowl-caliber team with an established quarterback. Houston is coming off its first winning season, has an explosive offense and maturing defense, and QB Matt Schaub led the NFL in passing yards while starting the Pro Bowl for the AFC. "There are times and instances a veteran player could have value," Smith said of L.T.'s potential as a piece that could put Houston over the top. "(But) I'm not saying that's the case here." (USA Today)
FF Today's Take: Tomlinson, 30, could be a nice fit for the Texans should they acquire him. The Texans shuffled between Steve Slaton, Ryan Moats, Chris Brown, and Arian Foster at RB last season, and could be looking for a more stable veteran presence to compliment their younger backs.
| | Childress Willing To Wait On Favre -- Sat Feb 27 10:00 am --
Veteran QB Still Undecided | Not knowing doesn’t seem to bother Brad Childress.
On Friday, the Vikings coach was hit early with Brett Favre questions by reporters looking for answers about the QB’s 2010 status. In his own Childress-ean fashion, the coach said he has spoken to Favre a couple of times this week, but ultimately, nothing has changed regarding the decision on which everyone is waiting. Childress did say he will not force the veteran QB to make a decision on whether to play or retire and that Favre has “earned that latitude.” Childress is comfortable with a Favre timeline similar to last offseason, and the coach believes his team understands and is able to handle that. Favre will make an appearance on The Tonight Show next Thursday. It’s the first interview Favre has agreed to since losing to the Saints in the NFC title game. (NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: It looks like the indecisive attention diva will leave us hanging in the balance for yet another offseason. If history truly does repeat itself, look for another mid-August commitment to "one more season."
| | Chargers' Jackson Could Face Suspension -- Wed Feb 24 1:40 pm --
For Second DUI Offense | Chargers Pro Bowl receiver Vincent Jackson will receive four days in a work-release program, possibly roadside trash pickup, plus a likely NFL suspension this fall, after pleading guilty to his second drunken-driving offense since 2006. Jackson, 27, also was sentenced to five years’ probation, a $2,408 fine and 15 days of community service stemming from his DUI arrest in January 2009. Because it’s his second DUI offense, Jackson likely will be suspended by the NFL, according to the league’s substance-abuse policy. The suspension could be about two games, but his overall punishment could have been much worse. The San Diego City Attorney’s Office asked a Superior Court judge to punish him with “substantial custody” — as much as 180 days in jail — after hearing Jackson make comments in a local radio interview last month that prosecutors apparently considered irreverent, according to court documents. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
FF Today's Take: It'll be interesting to see how the NFL deals with Jackson now that he's a two-time offender. If Jackson does indeed end up receiving a two game suspension, it could knock him down most fantasy draft boards.
| | Saints To Let Sharper Test Free Agency -- Wed Feb 24 1:15 pm --
Pro Bowl Safety Seeking A Raise | New Orleans Saints safety Darren Sharper wants to return to the Super Bowl champions. However, the fact that the Saints will allow Sharper to test free agency -- he was notified Monday that they wouldn't retain him with a franchise tag -- tells him that New Orleans is prepared to move on without him. "They said they want me back, but if you want someone back, why are you going to let them test the market?," Sharper said in a telephone interview Tuesday. "I don't know how much they want me back if they're allowing other teams to bid for my services. Being in this situation before, if a team is willing to let you test the market, they're willing to let you go." Sharper, 34, earned Pro Bowl honors this past season after tying for a league-high nine interceptions, and he helped the Saints win their first Super Bowl title. Sharper signed a one-year, $1.7 million free-agent deal with the Saints last year after being released by the Minnesota Vikings. Free agency begins March 5.
Sharper said he won't come as cheap as he did last year, be it with the Saints or anyone else. He didn't specify a price range but said he has a "couple good years left." If he's driving to earn a sizeable payday, he has to hope there are suitors. There weren't many last offseason, which is why Sharper signed with the Saints at such an affordable price. "I'm going to want to be compensated market value," Sharper said. "Hopefully things work out (with the Saints). I know the system, and the team was more successful once I got there. They know the value. It's simple economics. You pay someone what they deserve. I was a bargain deal last year. "It's tough because the fan base is great, and we had something special and we have a chance to repeat. It would be bad if I wasn't able to return. We'll see if they make me an offer that is competitive." Had the Saints opted to use the franchise tag on Sharper, they would've had to pay him $6.455 million next season. By declining that price tag, the team seemingly could offer Sharper a deal that could pay him that salary or more over multiple years but not that much in 2010 -- if they opt to try to retain him.
(NFL.com)
FF Today's Take: Sharper definitely deserves a pay increase after his inspiring performance for New Orleans this past season, but the Saints have their hands full this offseason trying to resign RB Pierre Thomas, WR Lance Moore, LB Scott Fujita, and DL Will Smith, among others.
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