Official 10' NFL Offseason Thread: CIN sign T.O. 1yr/2m

4th & Mo Morris for Cro is a good deal for DET. Schwartz is a great defensive-minded coach and would be able to help Antonio's development. Worst case scenario you put him in nickel and dime packages, and he's better than most compared to any 3rd corners in the NFL.

Even though the deal is now unlikely, in the event it does happen would SD stick with Jammer and Cason?? You'd have to believe drafting a corner in the first or second is a priority up there with RB.
 
Damn Cro.

Getting traded for Maurice $!%$!*! Morris
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Originally Posted by dreClark

Damn Cro.

Getting traded for Maurice $!%$!*! Morris
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for real..
raheem morris better get on that damn phone and offer derrick ward and a 3rd rounder
 
[h1]******** announce Samuels' retirement[/h1]
Posted by Michael David Smith on March 3, 2010 12:38 PM ET

The Washington ******** have announced that Chris Samuels is retiring, and the team has scheduled a press conference Thursday for the longtime offensive tackle to make it official.

On Monday it was reported that Samuels had decided to call it quits after doctors warned him against playing because of a neck injury.

After an Outland Trophy-winning college career at Alabama, Samuels was drafted by the ******** with the third pick in the 2000 NFL draft. He started all 16 games as a rookie, and in his second season he was chosen to his first of six Pro Bowls.

Samuels' 2009 season was cut short after just five games. Overall Samuels played in 141 games in 10 seasons, starting all of them
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[table][tr][td][h1]Top NFL free agents: Where they will sign versus where they should[/h1][/td][td]
Story Highlights
[h2]Once again, ******** could set the market with first big signing[/h2][h2]It would be hard for Darren Sharper to improve situation he has with Saints[/h2][h2]New England makes sense for Thomas Jones and would irk division-rival Jets[/h2]
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[table][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table]
With the demise of the NFL's salary cap dramatically changing the landscape, free agency is such an unknown this year that one club executive told me this week the only thing he knows for sure is Washington will throw money around like it's playing Monopoly.

Thank goodness we can count on something in this uncapped year. Consistency of approach isn't something the ******** usually get high marks for, but in terms of free agency spending, they're the only compass we have.

"The feeling we get is that nobody's going to be very active in free agency except for the ********,'' the club executive said. "We're hearing they have significant interest in Julius Peppers and Darren Sproles.''

So with that familiar March refrain -- "the ******** want him'' -- we plunge into a free agency period that promises to be like none other. It begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, but where it will lead, no one can be sure. Here's a preview of the 10 free-agent names to know, with our projection of where they will sign, and where they should sign. For the purposes of this list, no restricted free agents are considered, unless their teams failed to tender them. Let the bidding begin.
[h3]Julius Peppers, defensive end[/h3]
Where he will sign: Washington -- The ******** are poised to come after the ex-Panthers franchise player with their go-to combination of Daniel Snyder's private jet and a Brink's truck, which seems to work every time. Washington has been signing the biggest available fish in free agency for so long now we really can't remember when the ******** weren't the market setters.

The Bears have money to spend too, and with no picks in the first two rounds of the draft (see Jay Cutler and Gaines Adams trades), they're motivated to make something happen in free agency. The Eagles may not match dollars with Washington or Chicago, but if Peppers wants to play for a winner, Philly offers an opportunity the ******** and Bears can't dangle or duplicate.

Where he should sign: New England -- If Peppers is serious about wanting to approach greatness and try his hand rushing the passer as a 3-4 outside linebacker, his best shot to realize those goals is with the Patriots. New England won't throw the biggest contract at Peppers, but Adalius Thomas aside, its biggest free-agent acquisitions usually prosper from the move to Foxboro.
[h3]Karlos Dansby, linebacker[/h3]
Where he will sign: New York Giants -- With six years of NFL service under his belt, Dansby is one of the few big-name free agents who is perfectly situated for this year's unrestricted class. In New York he would be the centerpiece upgrade of a defense that is now led by new coordinator Perry Fewell, and would walk into the middle linebacker role vacated by Antonio Pierce's departure. Miami has need for an inside linebacker as well, and the lure of playing in a Bill Parcells-style defense could be strong. Expect Washington to be in the bidding, too, especially if the ******** don't land Peppers.

Where he should sign: New York Giants -- As they move into their new Meadowlands stadium, the G-Men should be poised for a big bounce back on defense next season, with safety Kenny Phillips healthy and Fewell getting more out of that underachieving defensive line. Dansby would be a big part of the improvement and there's nothing like success in the NFL's largest media market to really kick-start the second half of one's career.
[h3]Darren Sproles, running back[/h3]
Where he will sign: Washington -- The Chargers came to the conclusion that as a situational back, Sproles wasn't worth the $7 million-plus price tag he was in line for if they tendered him as a restricted free agent. But Mike Shanahan covets him from his days competing against San Diego in the AFC West, and the ******** have been known to overpay for skill players in free agency (Antwaan Randle El and Brandon Lloyd come to mind).

Where he should sign: Philadelphia -- The Eagles are reportedly interested, and if so, Sproles would fill the third-down back/return man role quite nicely. With no Brian Westbrook around to throw the ball to any more, the Eagles would let Sproles inherit the same role he enjoyed his greatest success with in San Diego. The Eagles have LeSean McCoy to carry the rushing load, and Sproles would add yet another electrifying young playmaker in Philly.
[h3]Dunta Robinson, cornerback[/h3]
Where he will sign: Tampa Bay -- The Bucs clearly won't break the bank for the former Texans franchise player, but if Robinson's market turns out to be soft and the price tag is reasonable, the Bucs could target him and land a youthful (27) but experienced option (six-year veteran) to replace the aging Ronde Barber, who turns 35 in April. Other teams expected to shop in the cornerback market this offseason include the Falcons, Vikings, Titans and Packers.

Where he should sign: Tennessee -- The Titans have faced Robinson twice a year for six seasons now in the AFC South, and they probably know his work as well as anyone. Though his play hasn't lived up to his first-round billing for quite a while now, Robinson is still an athletic young corner, and not many of those make it to unrestricted free agency. In the past, Tennessee has shown a tendency to sign free agents away from a division opponent, thereby weakening a rival (Nick Harper and David Thornton were ex-Colts).

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Posted: Wednesday March 3, 2010 12:54PM; Updated: Wednesday March 3, 2010 1:06PM

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[table][tr][td][h1]NFL free agents (cont.)[/h1][/td][/tr][/table]
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[h3]LaDainian Tomlinson, running back[/h3][table][tr][td][/td][/tr][/table]
Where he will sign: Houston -- No team can offer as much opportunity in their backfield as the running back-needy Texans, and the chance to play in his home state would also be appealing to Tomlinson. L.T. said he wants to play on a Super Bowl contender and with an elite quarterback, and I could see him convincing himself that the high-powered Texans and Matt Schaub qualify on both counts. Other plausible suitors could include the Lions, Vikings (if Chester Taylor leaves), Eagles, ********, Bears, 49ers and Packers.

Where he should sign: Green Bay -- If finally getting a Super Bowl ring is the only reason LT's still playing these days, why not roll the dice with the on-the-rise Packers and quarterback Aaron Rodgers? Tomlinson could be Green Bay's second rushing option behind starter Ryan Grant for a year or two, and there are play-makers galore in that Packers passing game. Unless LT has zero interest in playing in cold weather, Green Bay is a team that nicely fits his dwindling timetable.
[h3]Darren Sharper, safety[/h3]
Where he will sign: New Orleans -- With a number of teams in need of safety help, Sharper will have options and offers to consider. But Sharper knows he's best-suited to playing the role of ball-hawking centerfielder in Gregg Williams' defense, and unless the Saints insult him with a hometown discount deal, I think he's smart enough to realize he's in a great situation with the defending champs. The Bears, Giants, Chiefs and Dolphins are potential bidders, but Sharper will give the Saints every opportunity to stay in the hunt.

Where he should sign: New Orleans -- Should the Cover-2 playing (or leaning) Bears and Giants come after Sharper hard, he would do well to remember how limited his production was in that play-it-safe scheme in Minnesota, rather than being freed up to make plays on the ball like he did last season in New Orleans. The Saints use Sharper perfectly, and that's something money can't buy. Why mess with the good thing Sharper found in New Orleans?
[h3]Thomas Jones, running back[/h3]
Where he will sign: Detroit -- The Lions have the greatest need and thus should be willing to pay the most. With Kevin Smith a question mark health-wise, Detroit has to address the position either this month in free agency or next month in the draft. Jones ran for 1,402 yards and 14 touchdowns last season, and his tough and reliable running style would help take some of the burden off Matthew Stafford's young shoulders. But Jones would fit in well in a lot of places, including San Diego, Houston, New England and Philadelphia.

Where he should sign: New England -- The Patriots picking the Jets' pocket for a veteran running back would certainly stoke their rivalry a little more, and New England could use a little hard-nosed running to pick up those tricky fourth-and-2's. We're not saying Jones would be another Corey Dillon-type home run, but he would give the Patriots more than Fred Taylor wound up producing.
[h3]Chester Taylor, running back[/h3]
Where he will sign: Seattle -- The Seahawks usually like to make at least one splash in free agency, and taking a player from their free-agent nemesis, the Vikings, counts double. While Seattle could still use the second of its two first-round picks (No. 14) on a running back like C.J. Spiller, signing the underrated Taylor would give them options in April. Of all the veteran backs in this market, Taylor is the most valuable commodity, because while he's very durable, he doesn't have anywhere near the level of wear and tear on him that most 30-year-old rushers do.

Where he should sign: Minnesota -- It'd be hard for Taylor to find grass that's any greener than what he already has with the Vikings. OK, even artificial turf. Minnesota knows he plays an important role behind Adrian Peterson, and given the fumbling problems that have plagued No. 28, Taylor should have even more leverage with the Vikings. San Diego would be another appealing option for a potential starting position if the Chargers come after him, but staying put in Minnesota and playing behind Peterson might add another three or four years to his career.
[h3]Kevin Walter, receiver[/h3]
Where he will sign: Baltimore -- Yes, the Ravens have some limited interest in Terrell Owens. But they have even more interest in a player like Walter, the free-agent Texans pass-catcher who would fit very nicely into a No. 2 or 3-type role on their depth chart. He's a strong complementary type receiver and a nice fit with the recently signed Donte Stallworth, who's more of a vertical, stretch-the-field threat. Walter is big (6-foot-3), runs well and is only 28. Though he didn't catch many touchdowns with Houston, he's seen as a good red-zone target, which Baltimore craves.

Where he should sign: Houston -- The Texans want him back, and they should be willing to overpay a little to keep a player they like and who has produced. If you're Walter, don't you want see where things might be headed in Houston, which ended the season on a four-game roll to earn their first winning record in franchise history? The Texans know Walter's value as a steady No. 2 option behind Andre Johnson, and Houston should take some of the money it's saving on not re-signing Dunta Robinson and lock Walter up this month.
[h3]Gary Brackett, linebacker[/h3]
Where he will sign: Indianapolis -- Though the sides don't sound close to getting a deal done before Friday, Brackett is the team's free-agent priority and general manager Bill Polian has been clear about Indy's intention to stay competitive once the bidding starts. The Colts won't usually stretch to keep linebackers, but Brackett is a team leader and productive veteran, and there's a sense that owner Jim Irsay has no intention of letting him get away. It's logical to assume Brackett wants to see what the market brings, but he has given the Colts his assurance that he'll check with them before signing anything.

Where he should sign: Indianapolis -- If the Giants don't land Dansby, they could be coming after Brackett, and that's an option that would hold some appeal, especially since New York might convert to the Cover-2 defense that Brackett knows well from Indy. Miami is another club looking for an inside linebacker, and the Dolphins defense has intriguing potential. But with the Colts, Brackett is in a system that suits him, and he's on a perennial playoff and Super Bowl contender. Unless the money is vastly inferior, there's no good reason to leave Indianapolis.
[h3]And 10 more potential free agents to watch...[/h3]
• Terrell Owens, receiver -- Not many potential landing spots for T.O., and Baltimore could be the only team we see as a maybe. Ignore the Cincy blather coming from Chad Ochocinco.

• Brian Westbrook, running back -- The Browns, Vikings or Bears could make some sense in certain scenarios, but can Westbrook be certain to pass anyone's physical at this point?

• Antrel Rolle, defensive back -- If Rolle doesn't re-sign a restructured deal with the Cardinals, a homecoming with Miami makes plenty of sense for the former Hurricane. The Bears, Vikings and Eagles could also be in the chase.

• Leigh Bodden, cornerback -- The Patriots are still in the mix to keep Bodden, but plenty of teams with needs at cornerback (the Falcons, Vikings, Ravens, Titans and Eagles) are watching what unfolds.

• Adalius Thomas, linebacker -- Once he gets released from New England, look for Thomas to resurface as a Jet, playing for his old Ravens defensive coordinator, Rex Ryan. He was a different player in Ryan's system.

• Ryan Clark, safety -- I could see Ryan and the Steelers still getting something done, but if not, the Bears, Bucs, Chiefs, Eagles, and Browns are all teams that could be in the market for a safety at some point this offseason.

• Chad Pennington, quarterback -- There's not much buzz about the quarterback market in free agency, but Pennington could land with a team like the Rams, Cardinals, Bucs, Lions or even the Jets in a mentoring/backup role. Maybe he's the bridge to a first-round quarterback in St. Louis, a role he has seen from both sides now.

• Kevin Mawae, center -- It might take a while for his market to develop, but someone will have Mawae, who went to the Pro Bowl last season, in camp come July. Buffalo and Seattle have needs up and down their offensive line.

• Antonio Bryant, receiver -- The Bucs seem to have all but closed the door on Bryant returning, and while it's hard to see anyone spending big on him, he could warrant a mid-level deal from receiver-needy teams such as Washington or Baltimore.

• Aaron Kampman, defensive end/linebacker -- If Kampman leaves Green Bay, it'll be to a 4-3 team that intends to shift him back to defensive end, where he was one of the league's more underrated pass rushers. His knee rehabilitation complicates his status, but Chicago, Tennessee, Seattle, and Detroit all are 4-3 teams that could be interested.
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http://[h3]
[h3]Where's Walter (signing on Friday)?[/h3]
1:59PM ET

[h5]Kevin Walter | Texans | Interested: Texans?, Ravens? [/h5]


Assessing the market for free agent wideouts, the best ones all seem to be of the restricted variety which, appropriately, restricts their market only to teams willing to ante up draft picks in return.

But one of the more interesting names on the unrestricted free agent WR list is Kevin Walter, the Houston Texans pass-catcher who seemed poised for a breakout that never materialized in 2009. If Walter hits the open market on Friday, he could have a large array of suitors, as he can fill a nice role for teams that already have a stud in their No. 1 slot. One team that might be adding a multitude of WRs this offseason is the Baltimore Ravens, and Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun got word from a league source that said the Ravens "have been watching a lot of film on Walter."

But he might not hit that open market, though. According to a tweet from the Houston Chronicle's John McClain, the Texans want him back. They can prove it with a solid offer before Friday.

http://[h3]Sharper might not move far[/h3]
1:38PM ET

[h5]Darren Sharper | Saints | Interested: Texans?, Giants?, Chiefs?, Dolphins?, Eagles?, Saints?, Bears? [/h5]


As Darren Sharper gets ready to hit the open market this week, the rumors have flown in as to potential landing spots. The Saints got Sharper on a one-year, $1.7 million deal in 2009, and he is looking for more security this offseason; still, he would prefer to stay in NOLA, even though he felt a little disrespected by the Saints not tagging him or making him a solid offer before this week.

Aside from the Saints, other teams that may make a bid include the Bears, Eagles, Dolphins, Vikings and Chiefs. Paul Schwartz of the New York Post thinks the Giants should also be in the hunt. Rumblings have yielded the number of around $3 million per season as a figure that might be good enough to land him.

But there's a reason why Chicago (and maybe the Giants, depending on DC Perry Fewell's whims) might not be the most productive landing spot, according to NFC North blogger Kevin Seifert. While heaping some praise on Sharper, Matt Williamson of Scouts, Inc. proposes a possible destination that wouldn't involve a very long move:

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[h5]Matt Williamson[/h5]
Sharper could make an impact for Houston
"Because of his age (34), there is some risk here that Sharper's game could be quick to deteriorate, but that was also the thinking last year at this time when Minnesota decided to allow this possible future Hall of Famer to test the market. What was the result? A superb season for the eventual Super Bowl champions. His professional approach to the game yields contributions that cannot be judged by statistics, but his statistics last year were off the charts as well. Houston immediately pops to mind as a team that could use a guy like this to get over the hump. But many could use Sharper."
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http://[h3]McNabb for No. 33 overall?[/h3]
1:31PM ET

[h5]Donovan McNabb | Eagles | Interested: 49ers?, Rams?, Panthers?, Jaguars?, Bills?, ********?, Vikings?, Browns? [/h5]


[h5]Hypothetical destinations for No. 5[/h5]
With the release of Brian Westbrook last week, Albert Breer of the Boston Globe tweeted that it leaves the Eagles with a very young nucleus to build around, so is Donovan McNabb the next to go? There had been a previous radio report that the young players had developed a stronger bond with McNabb understudy Kevin Kolb, and this would dovetail in with Breer's theory.

One team that appeared to be more interested in McNabb's one-year teammate Michael Vick is the Rams, but Bryan Burwell of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch relays word from "more than one well-informed source" that the team has had "intense internal conversations" with the Eagles regarding a trade for McNabb. But those have been disputed, as seen below.

NFC East blogger Matt Mosley wrote a while back that it was unlikely the Eagles would trade McNabb to a top NFC contender for competitive reasons, but no one expects the Rams to compete next season, so perhaps we shouldn't be so quick to dismiss the possibility.

As for that link to St. Louis? Our own Adam Schefter is disputing it, although Matt Williamson of Scouts, Inc. does pose an interesting possibility for an 11th hour version:

schefter_adam_30.jpg
[h5]Adam Schefter[/h5]
It won't be McNabb for St. Louis
"For all the chatter there is about Donovan McNabb, and whether or not he'll be spending the 2010 season in Philadelphia, the only place he is not expected to wind up is in St. Louis. The Rams have not had any -- repeat, any -- trade discussions with the Eagles regarding a potential trade for McNabb. The Rams would love to upgrade their quarterback position, and no one will be surprised if the Eagles deal one of their quarterbacks, but it won't be McNabb going to St. Louis."
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williamson_matt_30.jpg
[h5]Matt Williamson[/h5]
McNabb for No. 33 overall?
"With the way the draft is set up, maybe St. Louis is best off taking the defensive tackle in Round 1 and letting every team re-stack its board while the Rams get on the phone with Philly overnight. That 33rd pick could be more valuable than ever and if you can walk out of this draft with Suh, trading No. 33 for Donovan McNabb and, say, the Eagles' third- or fourth-round pick, then you really have something."
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http://[h3]Olsen trade paves way to sign Rolle?[/h3]
1:17PM ET

[h5]Greg Olsen | Bears | Interested: Patriots?, Bengals? [/h5]


[h5]TEs under Martz's guidance[/h5]
Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune has word from multiple league sources that the Bears might sign http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=2678Brandon Manumaleuna, a stout blocking-oriented TE. He's the type of player at tight end that new offensive coordinator Mike Martz loves, and his signing could indicate that the Bears are ready to move Greg Olsen. As we're well aware by now, the Bears don't have any draft picks in the first or second rounds in April, and they might be able to secure a pick or two by moving a player who is not a fit for the Martzian scheme.

In an interview with ChicagoBears.com, GM Jerry Angelo addressed Olsen indirectly. "A name was brought up to me [recently] about a potential player that might not be a real good fit -- his name's been bantered around ... But we're in the business to keep our good players. We're in the business to make sure that our schemes facilitate our better players. That to me is what good coaching is about. So for me to see us trading somebody away at this point, I really don't see that happening." Angelo did say that if another team came in with a solid offer, the Bears would consider it.

The Tribune's Dan Pompei provided another good reason why they shouldn't trade Olsen: Martz (as well as Lovie Smith and Angelo) might not be around in 2011, and the new regime might be more TE-friendly.

Jeff Dickerson of ESPNChicago has a very interesting theory as well, one that could see the Bears trading Olsen (for draft picks, perhaps?) and nabbing Antrel Rolle in free agency:

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[h5]Jeff Dickerson[/h5]
Dual improvement here
"I still think Olsen is a tremendous talent who could really help the Bears, but if he's that desperate to leave town and the Bears could get a second-round pick in return, Jerry Angelo would be foolish not to pull the trigger. Plus, if Angelo does this favor for Olsen, maybe Drew Rosenhaus could help the Bears land another one of his clients: Antrel Rolle. That's pure speculation on my part, but don't be naive enough to think that sort of politics doesn't occur in free agency."


http://[h3]Skins, Eagles fighting for Sproles?[/h3]
12:36PM ET

[h5]Darren Sproles | Chargers | Interested: Eagles?, ********?, Seahawks? [/h5]


As the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=sdgSan Diego Chargers prepare for life after http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=2553LaDainian Tomlinson this week, they might be doing so without http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8544Darren Sproles, too. NFL Insider Adam Schefter tweeted on Friday that the Bolts will not tender Sproles and will allow him to take a dip in the free-agency pool. He could come back, but it won't be at the near $8 million that would've been required on a restricted free agent tender.

The Chargers will thus be in the mix for another shifty back either in free agency or the draft. (C.J. Spiller likely will be long gone by the Chargers' first pick, though.) Sproles, on the other hand, should draw plenty of interest, especially from teams that need both a third-down back and a return man, such as the 49ers (although specifically, the 49ers won't be much of a player for him, per Matt Maiocco of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat). We'll continue to monitor this, as Sproles could be one of the biggest fish in the market this offseason.

A possibility for Sproles could be north in Seattle. There were rumors linking Pete Carroll and his crew to Reggie Bush if the Saints elected to somehow disavow themselves of the USC product. Sproles could act in a similar role as Bush would, complementing the two incumbent Seahawks backs, who are both one-cut players. Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune hears that the ******** might also make a play for Sproles. As we told you earlier with regard to Karlos Dansby, the ******** look as though they might be poised to make another big push in free agency, and Sproles is exactly the kind of specialty player Dan Snyder wouldn't mind overpaying for (think Antwaan Randle El).

As for the Chargers, they might be wise to tap a Sproles-type replacement in the middle rounds of the draft, Trindon Holliday. That's if Jahvid Best is off the board. Bill Williamson plays matchmaker (see below):

The Football Outsiders' Bill Barnwell checks in with another idea:

football_outsiders_64x36.jpg
[h5]Football Outsiders[/h5]
Sproles and Eagles could be a match
"Sproles had a -14.3% DVOA last year on 93 carries, which was even worse than LaDainian Tomlinson's -10.1% figure. He was second in receiving DVOA amongst backs, though, and that's where his role is in an offense (LT was last.). It's hard to see Seattle spending serious cash on another skill position player, but one team with money to spend and a hole at halfback is Philadelphia, who threw to Brian Westbrook as much as any back in football. Rock Cartwright was fifth in the league in receiving DVOA last year, so Washington doesn't exactly need a back that can catch passes, but that never stopped them before." - Bill Barnwell
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williamson_bill_30.jpg
[h5]Bill Williamson[/h5]
Best, Holliday nice fits for San Diego
"Best may have been too good at the combine for San Diego's liking. He was the fastest running back at the combine. That could move him up the draft board dramatically. He was considered a late first-round talent prior to the combine. Now, Best could move into the top 15 along with Clemson's C.J. Spiller. San Diego picks No. 28 and would likely love to get a shot at Best. As for Holliday, he could be a decent replacement if Darren Sproles leaves San Diego through free agency. Like Sproles, Holliday is a tiny speedster. Holliday is 5-foot-5 and is awfully quick. He ran a 4.34 40-yard dash at the combine. What better way to replace Sproles than with a Sproles clone?"
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http://[h3]Market shrinking for Westbrook?[/h3]
10:57AM ET

[h5]Brian Westbrook | Eagles | Interested: Browns?, Ravens?, Bears?, Vikings?, Giants? [/h5]


As we now know, Brian Westbrook is set to be released by the Philadelphia Eagles, and the team has given him the ability to negotiate with other teams before his official release around Friday. Westbrook was due $7.25 million in 2010, but he suffered two concussions this past season -- not a good sign for a player who also has a bum knee.

According to this report from the Twitter feed of Les Bowen, the teams Westbrook would be willing to sign with could be more limited. That's because Westbrook supposedly needs to sign with a team that practice and plays on grass in order to make things easier on his knee. This could complicate where he'd be eligible to sign.

The Newark Star-Ledger's Mike Garafolo has an interesting thought: Why don't the New York Giants take a look at Westbrook? Other rumors have linked Westbrook to Minnesota and Chicago within the past week.

At the combine, Ravens coach John Harbaugh addressed the gathered media and expressed interest in Westbrook. Less of a fit than the others, but the more the merrier, we suppose. On that note, perhaps Tom Heckert -- who wouldn't comment on Westbrook to Geoff Mosher of the Delaware News Journal -- and the Browns might take a look, given Heckert's extreme familiarity with Westbrook.

Playing the role of Donny Downer is NFC East blogger Matt Mosley, who thinks Westbrook might've played his last NFL snap:

mosley_matt_30.jpg
[h5]Matt Mosley[/h5]
Westbrook might not catch on elsewhere
"Westbrook will think long and hard before putting on his helmet again for another team. He has expressed his fear of being affected by head injuries on a long-term basis. That may end up overriding his desire to continue in the NFL. This is a very prideful man, so he's not going to be happy getting seven or eight touches per game as a third-down back. And it's hard to imagine a team seeing him as anything more than that given his injury history."
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http://[h3]Skins to make major push for Dansby?[/h3]
10:52AM ET

[h5]Karlos Dansby | Cardinals | Interested: Bears?, Colts?, ********?, Chargers?, Chiefs?, Dolphins?, Giants?, Patriots? [/h5]


With word last week from NFL Insider Adam Schefter that the Arizona Cardinals won't be placing the franchise tag on Karlos Dansby, the linebacker becomes one of the top free agents on the market this offseason. Dansby took to Sirius NFL Radio recently and listed the Chargers, Dolphins, Giants and ******** as options, and we've speculated that the Pats and Chiefs might also be interested.

Brian Biggane of the Palm Beach Post lists the Bears as a new player in the Dansby market -- possibly because GM Jerry Angelo has been given the green light to start spending -- although that seems like a bit of a stretch, given that the LB corps is a relative strength for the Bears.

It's believed that Dansby is looking for a deal with $30 million in guaranteed money, a figure that might scare off the Cards. Or would it? As Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic wrote, the team will have more than $20 million less on the payroll with the retirement of Kurt Warner and expected departures of Chike Okeafor and Mike Gandy. We could see them spend some of that money on either Dansby or fellow free agent-to-be Antrel Rolle; losing both would be devastating.

Jason Reid writes for the Washington Post that the ******** (stop us if you've heard this before) are looking to make a splash in free agency yet again this season, taking advantage of the possibility of a capless season. And Dansby could be right near the top of the list, along with Julius Peppers and Darren Sproles (an ideal Dan Snyder signee if there ever was one). If it comes down to money, Snyder should have no trouble throwing piles of it Dansby's way.

As for the Giants, Dansby could help fill a glaring need in Perry Fewell's defense:

williamson_matt_30.jpg
[h5]Matt Williamson[/h5]
MLB upgrade necessary
"Having a new coordinator could yield immediate results, but Fewell's scheme is based a great deal on speed and range. With that in mind, New York needs to find one linebacker with elite playmaking abilities, maybe Rolando McClain in the draft or Karlos Dansby in free agency."
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http://[h3]Cro not a go for Jets[/h3]
10:40AM ET

[h5]Antonio Cromartie | Chargers | Interested: Titans?, Vikings?, Browns?, Jets?, Packers?, Giants?, Ravens?, Cowboys? [/h5]


As of this past weekend, there appeared to be some momentum building for the Detroit Lions to acquire Antonio Cromartie from the San Diego Chargers. According to Tom Kowalski of MLive.com, that deal appears "highly unlikely." John Niyo of the Detroit News has word that the possible sticking point was Maurice Morris, whom the Chargers wanted but the Lions didn't want to relinquish.

Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reported recently that specific terms were being discussed by teams at the combine and that a trade was likely "sooner rather than later." Not sure whether this only applied to the deal with the Lions, but it could be back to square one.

Going back to the initial speculation, some other suitors could include the Cowboys, Packers, Ravens, Giants, Eagles, Falcons, Vikings and 49ers. Niyo indicated that the potential deal with the Lions included Morris and a fourth- or fifth-rounder, so the other teams likely would need to pony up a similar package to seal the deal.

There was some chatter about Cromartie being traded to the Jets, but Rich Cimini of the New York Daily News said via his Twitter feed that it wasn't happening, in part because the Chargers want him out of the AFC altogether. That could mean the Ravens are out of the Cromartie equation as well.

http://[h3]Bears to spend big ... on Peppers?[/h3]
7:54AM ET

[h5]Chicago Bears [/h5]


One would be hard-pressed to find an NFL executive that will publicly admit to building his team in any way other than the draft. It's the financially conservative route, and some teams have had great success with this tack.

Unfortunately, Chicago Bears GM Jerry Angelo can't build exclusively through the draft this offseason, as the team traded away its first- and second-rounders. In order to facilitate improvements, Angelo has been authorized to spend up to $25 million in guaranteed money, according to what sources have told Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times.

The man on top of the Bears' wish list could be DE Julius Peppers, and if that's the case, they might need to spend all of that $25 million on him. Previous reports have the ******** -- with fearless spender Daniel Snyder -- also interested in the man who has likely played his last snap for the Panthers.

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[h5]John Clayton[/h5]
Peppers could serve as Bears' first-round pick
"Last year, the Bears traded down and drafted a lot of players, and those players were virtually on scholarship. Many spent the season on the inactive list. With no draft choice until the third round, the Bears should be aggressive in their pursuit of Peppers instead of being budget-conscious and going for someone such as Aaron Kampman. If the Bears sign Peppers, he would be their first-round pick."
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http://[h3]Money influencing depth chart?[/h3]
6:38AM ET

[h5]Roy E. Williams | Cowboys [/h5]


Here's some background on all the latest chatter on ol' Roy:

ESPNDallas.com's Tim MacMahon reported Friday night that http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=dalDallas Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams is not guaranteed a starting role, despite being owed starter money -- $12.9 million for 2010. MacMahon quoted head coach Wade Phillips, who said, "We are going to play the best player, no matter what," when asked if Williams could be beaten out for one of the starting receiver roles.

Appearing on ESPN Radio in Dallas recently (per the Dallas Morning News), Deion Sanders expressed doubt that Williams would ever live up to expectations -- based on the number of draft picks given up and his contract -- and that Lions GM Martin Mayhew was "clapping his feet" when the 'Boys called to inquire about Roy.

In spite of Deion's allegations, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones clarified the depth chart situation. When asked if he could imagine a possible world where Williams was not starting, Jones responded, "a big no," per MacMahon. Guess we know who wears the pants in that relationship.

Yesterday, Matt Mosley, of the wonderful "Beast" blog, shed some more light:

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[h5]Matt Mosley[/h5]
Jones sent mixed messages
"With more mixed messages like the one he delivered Sunday, Jones will also make Cowboys fans nervous. If you want to create an uncomfortable atmosphere, exempting certain players doesn't seem like the way to go. Former Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson gave certain players special treatment while tormenting others. He just made sure the special treatment was applied to the players who earned it. Fortunately for Williams, times have changed."
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http://[h3]Will Vick get his wish?[/h3]
6:26AM ET

[h5]Michael Vick | Eagles | Interested: Cardinals?, Bills?, Panthers?, Rams?, Raiders? [/h5]


[h5]Other possible landing spots[/h5]
Some new stuff on the Vick saga. According to Pat Yasinskas of the NFC South blog, via an Atlanta radio station, Vick wants to play for the Carolina Panthers. This is something we've been talking about, but for more background, here's a look.

We've been speculating on some possible trade locations for Michael Vick for a while now, but NFL.com's Jason La Canfora wrote last week that the Eagles may not trade Vick before the March 5 bonus deadline because they haven't contacted other teams just yet. As we know, if he's on the Eagles' roster March 5, he gets a $1.5 million bonus, and Eagles beat man Geoff Mosher got word from multiple league sources at the combine this week that the team will pay the bonus and wait on the best offer.

Appearing on the Dan Patrick show, Brian Westbrook was asked by the host whether Vick will also be on another team in 2010, and he responded, "Definitely."

In addition to the Bills and Rams -- considered the two front-runners -- Clifton Brown of the Sporting News opines that the Raiders, Panthers and Cardinals all make sense as trade destinations for No. 7.

Our man Adam Schefter checks in today after this latest news:

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[h5]Adam Schefter[/h5]
He may not move at all
"Vick might see himself in Carolina, but the Eagles see him in Philadelphia. The Eagles are planning to pick up the $1.5 million roster bonus in Vick's contract that must be exercised by a week from today, March 9. And once the Eagles exercise that bonus, they always could entertain offers for Vick. But if ever there were a time to deal Vick, the next week would be it. And Vick's name is not being tossed about in trade discussions. Looks like he'll be right back in Philadelphia."
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http://[h3]Did Mays shift stock?[/h3]
6:26AM ET

[h5]Taylor Mays | Interested: Cowboys?, Eagles?, Seahawks?, 49ers?, Packers?, Cardinals? [/h5]

[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/search/nfl_draft_110.gif[/img]
Well, it's a little early to tell in most places, but, to paraphrase Han Solo, "Hey, it's us."

When the freakish-but-unofficial 4.24 forty time for Taylor Mays became a solid-and-official 4.43, it would be fair to say his stock took the smallest of hits, the downgrade from pure spectacle to still pretty darn impressive. But it didn't take much of one. That's because Mays we know is a physical freak -- OLB size, CB speed -- and even reduced, his time and other measurables land him right near the top of the safety class, with usual suspects Eric Berry and Earl Thomas.

In any event, when Mel Kiper had him going No. 23 overall in his first mock draft (and No. 24 in his second), it set what has been a pretty standard bar for where Mays will land.

Most see the guy as a late first-rounder, likely to benefit teams like Philly, Green Bay or Dallas, that need safety help.

Mike Sando of the NFC West blog also notes that teams in that division could have interest:

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[h5]Mike Sando[/h5]
Mays could fit out west
"Mays' time is topical here because at least three NFC West teams could be in the market for a safety in the draft. The Seahawks have Deon Grant, who turns 31 this month, and the improving Jordan Babineaux. The Cardinals could lose Antrel Rolle. The 49ers could use a safety to pair with Dashon Goldson. Even the Rams could use help at the position, to the extent that they need athletes on defense."
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http://[h3]Joyner: Rhodes a 'perfect fit' for Giants[/h3]
6:25AM ET

[h5]Kerry Rhodes | Jets | Interested: Ravens?, Giants?, Chiefs?, Buccaneers?, Eagles?, Browns? [/h5]


It all started with an innocent tweet.

Back in December, http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=nyjhttp://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=nyjhttp://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=nyjNew York Jets safety http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8537http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8537http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8537Kerry Rhodes tweeted about his desire to potentially leave the team and prove his worth on the field with another club. The playoff season brought some new emotions into the equation, but the initial idea was still out there.

Earlier this offseason, Rich Cimini of the New York Daily News wrote ol' Kerry might get his wish, citing the fact that Rhodes' "Hollywood" persona isn't a match with the rest of the locker room. No matter what, there is a deadline of sorts approaching as NFL Insider Adam Schefter has reported that Rhodes is due a $2 million bonus on March 11. On Tuesday, Cimini updated the situation, noting that Rhodes' future with the team is still "a bit up in the air."

One possibility has him changing uniforms but staying in New York New Jersey as a member of the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=nygNew York Giants. Big Blue may be looking to upgrade the secondary this offseason, and Rhodes would be a good fit from a skills standpoint if new DC Perry Fewell goes with a Cover 2 scheme. Another possibility is the Baltimore Ravens, who still don't know what's going to happen with Ed Reed and could use a new aggressor in the defensive backfield if he retires.

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[h5]K.C. Joyner[/h5]
Rhodes a 'perfect fit' for Giants
"When used properly, Rhodes is that rarest of finds at his position -- a box safety who can also cover extremely well. He has fared well in every coverage study I have performed on him in the Scientific Football book series, and it didn't matter if the study was based on direct coverage (i.e. when Rhodes was in one on one coverage with a receiver) or deep assist coverage (i.e. helping another defender with over the top coverage). The Giants could use help in both of those coverage areas, so Rhodes to Big Blue would be a perfect fit."
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[h5]Tim Graham[/h5]
Other players want back with Rex
"Talkative Jets inside linebacker Bart Scott was a guest Tuesday morning on 'Mike & Mike' and discussed his hope for reuniting with an ex-Ravens teammate. Scott played seven seasons in Baltimore before following Ryan to the Jets a year ago. 'It's funny,' Scott said. 'I was hanging with Adalius Thomas for Super Bowl weekend. We're buddies from back in the day. He made it public that he's expressed in interest in joining Rex. I think some of his better years of his career have been a part of the Ravens' defense and under Rex Ryan's tutelage. It'll be exciting.' "
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There's a reason the Cardinals are willing to let Karlos Dansby go...

Although he has made great plays for the Cardinals, I don't think he is an elite LB and worth the money.
 
[h1]Report: Panthers offered Peppers $14 million a year[/h1]
Posted by Michael David Smith on March 3, 2010 1:05 PM ET

Just 36 hours before Julius Peppers becomes an unrestricted free agent, a new report says the Panthers tried hard to keep him in Carolina.

Pat Yasinskas of ESPN.com is reporting that the Panthers made at least three attempts to get a deal done with Peppers, and that the final offer was a long-term deal worth somewhere close to $14 million a year.

It was shortly after Peppers turned that deal down that the Panthers said publicly that they'd let Peppers test free agency.

Peppers apparently think he's going to get more than $14 million a year. Given how rampant tampering is in the NFL, it's possible that Peppers' agent has already been told that he'll be receiving an offer of more than $14 million a year as soon at 12:01 a.m. Friday.

Or it's possible that Peppers will only get something in the $12 million to $13 million a year range, and all of a sudden the offer he turned down from the Panthers won't sound so bad.
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1st round tenders for Brandon Marshall and Antoine Bethea per Schefter.

2nd round tender for Rocky McIntosh.


Skins will do something foolish here as usual
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...I do like Bethea and Sproles though
 
@Adam_Schefter
Filed to ESPN: ******** placed first-round tender on QB Jason Campbell. Tender is 110 percent of last year's base salary, over $3.1 million.
 
Originally Posted by finnns2003

I'm predicting that the Phins have a really crummy offseason. The game has passed Tuna by.
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Why?  Nothing's even happened yet this offseason. 
laugh.gif
 

Let a deal or two go thru before you just off him, man. 

  
 
He's great at stripping down a team and building it back up with 'his' guys...but lately he hasn't been able to push through from that point. And I'm a huge Parcells fan.

We'll see if this different. Helps he wont be on the sideline this time around and can just focus on the personnel.
 
Originally Posted by CP1708

Originally Posted by finnns2003

I'm predicting that the Phins have a really crummy offseason. The game has passed Tuna by.
Click to expand...
Why?  Nothing's even happened yet this offseason. 
laugh.gif
 

Let a deal or two go thru before you just off him, man. 

  
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Just a hunch dude. Gibril Wilson is one of the worst football players I've EVER seen. Grove, Smiley, guys that can't stay healthy. The receivers he's brought in (Wilford, Turner, etc.) are atrocious. Pennington fell into our laps, before that he signed McCown at QB. The LBs (Ayodele, Crowder, Porter) are god awful. Parcells hasn't won a SB since the early 90's, I just don't see it in him anymore. He's senile.
 
No doubt he hasn't been able to get a team all the way there. 

But at least let the offseason start before we start proclaiming it a failure. 
laugh.gif
 


Bill is doin what I always thought Jimmy shoulda done.  Jimmy shoulda gone the GM route and just drafted and let someone else coach the team, cuz nobody was better in the draft then JJ. 
If Bill can add a couple guys on each side of the ball, then i think he will have done his job for this season.  After that, it's on the coaches to develop the players like Henne, and our corners etc. 
 
Originally Posted by Al3xis

He's great at stripping down a team and building it back up with 'his' guys...but lately he hasn't been able to push through from that point. And I'm a huge Parcells fan.

We'll see if this different. Helps he wont be on the sideline this time around and can just focus on the personnel.
Click to expand...


   I have to disagree.....

Yr 1: from 1-15 to 11-5

Yr 2: we went 7-9 after having thee toughest schedule in the league and injuries everywhere. 

To me, that's an amazing job so far.
 
Originally Posted by CP1708

No doubt he hasn't been able to get a team all the way there. 

But at least let the offseason start before we start proclaiming it a failure. 
laugh.gif
 


Bill is doin what I always thought Jimmy shoulda done.  Jimmy shoulda gone the GM route and just drafted and let someone else coach the team, cuz nobody was better in the draft then JJ. 
If Bill can add a couple guys on each side of the ball, then i think he will have done his job for this season.  After that, it's on the coaches to develop the players like Henne, and our corners etc. 
Click to expand...


THIS.
 
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