Broncos Erasing Cutler's Existence

Not long after Broncos owner Pat Bowlen's announcement that the Broncos will trade disgruntled quarterback Jay Cutler, the team has already started removing traces of his existence on the team.

In addition to posting a statement from owner Pat Bowlen on the team’s web site, the team has also removed Cutler from the online depth chart, which currently shows no starting quarterback despite expressly being dated as of December 22, 2008.

That said, his online bio still is still there — but might dissapear in the near future.

BREAKING NEWS: Boncos Owner Says He Will Trade Cutler

It’s official: QB Jay Cutler and the Denver Broncos are getting a divorce.

Adam Schefter of NFL Network is reporting that, aAfter a contentious and over a month-long falling-out between Cutler and new coach Josh McDaniels couldn’t be resolved, Broncos owner Pat Bowlen issued the following statement today:

“Numerous attempts to contact Jay Cutler in the last 10 days, both by Head Coach Josh McDaniels and myself, have been unsuccessful. A conversation with his agent earlier today clearly communicated and confirmed to us that Jay no longer has any desire to play for the Denver Broncos. We will begin discussions with other teams in an effort to accommodate his request to be traded.”

The bad blood between the QB and McDaniels started in late February when word leaked that the new coach reportedly had discussed a deal that would have brought Matt Cassel to Denver and shipped out Cutler. McDaniels tutored Cassel in New England.

Vikings Re-Sign DE Grigsby

DE Otis Grigsby, a restricted free agent who was not tendered a contract by Minnesota, re-signed with the team. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

A four-year pro out of Kentucky, Grigsby entered the NFL with Miami in 2003 and was out of the NFL in 2004 and 2005. In 2006 the Carolina Panthers signed him and he spent two seasons with the team, appearing in 4 games and registered no stats.

Grigsby spent the last 2 seasons in Minnesota, where he appeared in 12-games with one start and registered two tackles and one sack.

Redskins Re-Sign DE Daniels

The Washington Redskins have decided to bring back thirteen-year veteran Phillip Daniels and have reached agreement on a one-year contract worth $845,000.

He was released earlier in free agency in a salary cap move and apperently received plenty of interest on the free agent market, but ultimately decided to return to Washington. It was also believed that the interested teams wanted to wait until after the draft.

Daniels' re-signing with Washing represents a significant paycut as he was scheduled to make $2.15 million in 2008 under his old contract.

Daniels, 36, has been with the Redskins since 2004. Previously, the former University of Georgia standout played with Seattle (1996-1999) and Chicago (2000-2003). He has appeared in 159 games with 141 starts, and started 15 games for Washington in 2007. He had 37 tackles and 2½ sacks that season but missed the 2008 season with a knee injury.

For his career, Daniels has 456 tackles, 59 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, 12 fumble recoveries, one interception, and 36 passes defensed.

Former Notre Dame/Detroit Lions Player Cifelli Dies

Gus Cifelli, a star tackle who helped lead Notre Dame to three national championships and the Detroit Lions to the 1952 NFL title, has died of natural causes at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, according to Terry Desmond, owner of A.J. Desmond & Sons funeral home. He was 84.

Cifelli was born in Philadelphia in 1925 and served in the Marines during World War II. He graduated from Notre Dame in 1950, after which he was drafted by the Detroit Lions. He also played for Green Bay, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

He was elected in 1973 as a judge to the 48th District Court in Bloomfield Hills. He retired from the bench in 2000. Cifelli will be buried Wednesday at Highland Cemetery in South Bend, Ind.

Eagles G Nick Cole Agrees to One-Year Deal

The Philadelphia Eagles have come to terms with restricted free agent offensive lineman Nick Cole, Signing a one-year deal of which the financial terms were not disclosed.

Cole, 24, started seven games at guard for the Eagles last season including all three postseason games.

The four-year pro started the season as a third-stringer but stepped in for the injured Max Jean-Gilles in Week 14 against the New York Giants. Jean-Gilles had been starting in place of Pro Bowler Shawn Andrews, who played only six quarters before missing the rest of the season with back problems.

Cole (6'0" 350lbs.) signed with the Eagles as a rookie free agent out of New Mexico State in 2006.

Double Murder in Vilma's Vacant New York Condo

The NYPD is investigating a double-murder which took place in a condo owned by New Orleans Saints LB Jonathan Vilma.

The bodies of Sekou Sakor and Ansu Keita turned up in New York City last week around the time neighbors reported gunfire at a vacant condominium in Woodbury, N.Y.

New York Police Commissioner Ray Kelly explained that the two Liberian immigrants appeared to have suffered an executed style death, because they allegedly orchestrated a “black paper scheme” fraud where people were bilked into buying a chemical that wipes ink off dollars.

According to police, Sekou Sajor and Ansu Keita’s bodies were dumped in separate New York boroughs after being shot in the head once apiece in a residence owned by Vilma, a former New York Jets player.

The New Orleans Saints linebacker and former New York Jets player was not there at the time, and has not been in the condo since 2007 when he placed the home up for sale. At this time he is not a suspect. Police are currently seeking to question a relative of Vilma who had access to the condominium, located in a luxury gated development about 13 miles from the Jets' former training camp at Hofstra University.

Police officials said investigators believe the victims may have been mixed up in a so-called "black money" scheme. Victims are sent e-mails saying that they could receive $100 bills smuggled from overseas -- stained black to avoid detection -- if they purchase a special chemical to wash it off; what they end up getting is a pile of worthless paper.

It was unclear how Sakor, 31, and Keita, 32, may have ended up at Vilma's home.

Favre Watch 2009

Day 49

Rams Sign Blocking TE Bajema To Boost Running Game

St. Louis Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo knows what he has in running back Steven Jackson, and wants to maximize his potential in the run game. Spagnuolo continued to build his roster as such today with the signing of TE Billy Bajema, a free agent from the San Francisco 49ers. Terms of his contract have not been released as of this posting.

Bajema is known around the league as a purely blocking TE, he started in a career-high 10 games in 2008, and appeared in all 16 contests but caught only two passes for 34 yards. He had no receptions in each of the previous two seasons. As a rookie, Bajema had a five receptions for 54 yards.

He joins Eric Butler, Daniel Fells, and projected starter Joe Klopfenstein on the St. Louis roster. Bajema will fill the void of recently released TE Anthony Becht.

Texans Sign DT Cody

The Houston Texans, have added to their defensive line depth with the signing of former Detroit Lions defensive tackle Shaun Cody. Terms of his contract were not disclosed.

Cody (6-4, 310) spent the first four seasons of his career with the Detroit Lions. He has played in 53 career games with 12 starts and has amassed 92 tackles, including 63 solos, 1.5 sacks, one career interception, four passes defensed, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.The 26-year old Cody played in all 16 games and tied a career high with five starts in 2008. He finished the year with a career-high 37 tackles, 26 of which were solos, and a career-best three passes defensed.

The fifth-year veteran will be joining another recently signed free agent defensive lineman, DE Antonio Smith, giving the Texans on paper a formidable defensive line next season. Cody is expected to battle former first rounder Travis Johnson for the starter's spot.

Ocho Cinco es una "No Show"

Bengals receiver Chad Ocho Cinco (formerly Johnson) did not show up for the start of the team's offseason work-out program.

After a down year in 2008, QB Carson Palmer and the Bengals hoped Ocho Cinco would be present.

"I'm not worried about him; I'm worried about the guys we have here," Palmer said at a news conference Monday. "The guys that want to be here and want to work now are the guys who are in the locker room right now and are here today."

Even though Bengals coach Marvin Lewis would not say what players were present, Carson Palmer was more willing to divulge the dissapointing information. Palmer did sound more upbeat when asked about other receivers such as Laveranues Coles, who was present.

This is not the first time that Ocho Cinco skipped an off-season program. Just last season 85 caused a major stir by skipping "voluntary" workouts and publicly stating his desire to be traded. Wether this absence is again hinting that he wants out of Cincinnati is unknown, but knowing Chad, if he wants out the media will hear about it soon. Ocho Cinco has not been in contact with the Bengals recently.

Last year Cincinnati passed up trade offers because the team was unwilling to take an $8 million salary-cap hit. A year later that cap number is reduced to $4.87 million to trade Ocho Cinco, making it more of a possibility.

The 31-year old receiver, is coming off one of the worst seasons of his career, recording just 53 catches for 540 yards and four touchdowns. He also was deactivated for a November game against the Pittsburgh Steelers for violating a team rule.

Marvel Smith Lands in San Francisco

The San Francisco 49ers continue to improve their offense and bring some smash mouth football to the Bay area, with the signing of free agent OT Marvel Smith. Terms of his contract were not released.

Smith (6-5, 321) enters his tenth season after originally being drafted in the second round (38th pick overall) of the 2000 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers out of the Arizona State.

In Smith's nine years, all with the Steelers, he played in 111 games with 108 starts to go along with 10 starts in the postseason. The versatile tackle lined up at right tackle his first three years for Pittsburgh before serving as the team’s starting left tackle the past six seasons. Smith earned Pro Bowl honors in 2005 and has been part of two Super Bowl Championships with Pittsburgh.

The 49ers will bring Smith and his experience to the right tackle position and allow 2007 1st round draft choice Joe Staley to slide over to the left side.

Taylor Excited About Patriots Talk

Former Dolphin and Redskin DE Jason Taylor is currently unemployed, but busy pimping his Hollywood image. Taylor was spotted Sunday night on the red carpet of an event for the Jason Taylor Foundation at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Taylor was speaking about his future in the NFL and his possible landing spots, spots that didn't rule out the Miami Dolphins, the team for which he played 11-seasons.

"Absolutely. There's no reason I wouldn't." But he also noted "I'm the wrong person to talk to about that. I sign one line on the contract, and the other guy signs the other line." Taylor said.

There is another owner who has already hinted at the idea of getting Taylor's autograph on a contract. Patriots owner Robert Kraft speaking Tuesday at the NFL owners' meeting in Dana Point, Calif., was asked about the possibility of signing Taylor.

"Great player," Kraft exclaimed, "I'm sure that can happen if he wants it."

Taylor is looking to bounce back from a dissapointing 2008, where he left Miami for the greener pastures of Washington. He played 13 games and started only eight while battling a strange calf injury that required emergency surgery to drain blood. He finished with 37 tackles and 3½ sacks.

"I took a lot of heat last year for the lack of productivity, and the injuries and whatnot, but after you play in a certain system and a certain situation for 11 years and make the Pro Bowl six times, then they tell you now play the other side, it doesn't always work that way. We couldn't find that mix last year."

Taylor, who will turn 35 in September, was definitive that he will play somewhere, but claimed he had no timetable to make a decision. He also stated "it's not about the money. I walked away from the money in D.C.". Taylor has had success, has made his money, has played in Pro Bowls, but he is still searching for that elusive Super Bowl.

"My main focus right now is spending time with the kids and the family, being back down here in Florida," Taylor said. "The rest of that will work itself out. It's got to be the right situation, beneficial for both team and myself, whatever team that is. I look forward to finding one, so I can get back to work, get with the program and keep going."

Pre-season Schedule Released

Here’s the entire 2009 preseason schedule, as released on March 30 by the NFL.

HALL OF FAME GAME: AUGUST 9
Buffalo vs. Tennessee (NBC)

WEEK 1: AUGUST 13 – 17
Arizona @ Pittsburgh (ESPN, 8/13)
Carolina @ NY Giants (ESPN, 8/17)
Atlanta @ Detroit
Chicago @ Buffalo
Cincinnati @ New Orleans
Cleveland @ Green Bay
Dallas @ Oakland
Denver @ San Francisco
Houston @ Kansas City
Jacksonville @ Miami
Minnesota @ Indianapolis
New England @ Philadelphia
St. Louis @ NY Jets
Seattle @ San Diego
Tampa Bay @ Tennessee
Washington @ Baltimore

WEEK 2: AUGUST 20 - 24

Philadelphia @ Indianapolis (FOX, 8/20)
Tennessee @ Dallas (FOX, 8/21)
NY Jets @ Baltimore (ESPN, 8/24)
Atlanta @ St. Louis
Buffalo @ Green Bay
Carolina @ Miami
Cincinnati @ New England
Denver @ Seattle
Detroit @ Cleveland
Kansas City @ Minnesota
New Orleans @ Houston
NY Giants @ Chicago
Oakland @ San Francisco
Pittsburgh @ Washington
San Diego @ Arizona
Tampa Bay @ Jacksonville

WEEK 3: AUGUST 27-31

Miami @ Tampa Bay (FOX, 8/27)
New England @ Washington (CBS, 8/28)
San Diego @ Atlanta (CBS, 8/29)
Chicago @ Denver (NBC, 8/30)
Minnesota @ Houston (ESPN, 8/31)
Baltimore @ Carolina
Buffalo @ Pittsburgh
Green Bay @ Arizona
Indianapolis @ Detroit
Jacksonville @ Philadelphia
New Orleans @ Oakland
NY Jets @ NY Giants
St. Louis @ Cincinnati
San Francisco @ Dallas
Seattle @ Kansas City
Tennessee @ Cleveland

WEEK 4: SEPTEMBER 3-4

Arizona @ Denver
Baltimore @ Atlanta
Cleveland @ Chicago
Dallas @ Minnesota
Detroit @ Buffalo
Green Bay @ Tennessee
Houston @ Tampa Bay
Indianapolis @ Cincinnati
Kansas City @ St. Louis
Miami @ New Orleans
NY Giants @ New England
Oakland @ Seattle
Philadelphia @ NY Jets
Pittsburgh @ Carolina
San Francisco @ San Diego
Washington @ Jacksonville

There you have it, Mark your calendars and look out for Alldayfootball.com's live game day chats coming this season.

What Should The Chiefs Do With Dorsey?

As the Kansas City Chiefs move into a 3-4 defensive alignment, a curious thing occurred to me. What will the Chiefs do with last season's 1st round draft choice DT Glenn Dorsey? Dorsey at 6'1" 297lbs lacks the height and range of a 3-4 defensive end who usually stand around 6'4"-6'5" and can rush the passer but also stack against the run, Dorsey is an interior linemen who uses his speed against weaker athletes in guards and center, his speed against an OT is a mismatch and he'll get dominated, as for NT, he has no where near the size or stoutness to stand up against constant double teams, he already has durability concerns and him taking a beating all game with his frame will set him back further, he is a prototypical UT in a 4-3 and nothing else.


The Chiefs will now have a ton of money locked up in a player that totally does not fit their system, releasing Dorsey would not be an option, considering his age and value on the NFL market. The Chiefs should act now and secure a trade to help further improve their team.


Who would be a good fit to trade with the Kansas City Chiefs? The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they are clearly open to trading this season, they traded with the Cleveland Browns for TE Kellen Winslow, and they nearly stole Matt Cassel away from Kansas City to complete a three way trade with Denver and New England. Also Tampa's new GM Mark Dominik is openly searching for a defensive tackle to fit new defensive coordinator Jim Bates' scheme, but unfortunately all the defensive tackles on the Bucs radar have been signed elsewhere, and by elsewhere we mean the New York Giants.


What do the Bucs have that the Chiefs need? Offensive lineman. The Kansas City Chiefs have just locked up their franchise QB, but they still have an iffy o-line to protect him. Everyone is aware that a QB cannot be successful if there are defenders in his face. The chiefs are set at the LT position with last seasons 1st round choice Branden Albert, but he may be the only one worth keeping. LG Brian Waters has been solid in his career but is entering his 10th season. RG Adrian Jones is not inspiring fear in opposing defenders, and can't stay healthy for a whole season.


The Buccaneers have 3 young solid guards including one pro-bowler, former 1st round pick Davin Joseph. Joseph is a team captain and one of the leaders on the Bucs roster, I don't see him being used as trade bait.

Arron Sears (6'3" 319) is a rising star in the NFL and some have projected him to be better than Joseph, a second round choice the guard from the university of Tennessee has started 31 games in his 2 year career. Sears is a mauling and road grating offensive guard with the natural athleticism and ability of an offensive tackle. He is incredibly stout and anchors well in pass protection but his main forte is his run blocking ability where he is powerful, plays with good leverage and works his way well in space to seal off linebackers at the second level, he has very good football IQ and won't often get fooled by stunts and blitzes, he's young and still has a lot of potential upside and would be a welcome addition to any teams offensive line.

Jeremy Zuttah (6'4" 303) personifies the word versatility as he can play any offensive line position from tackle to center, he has amazing athleticism and incredible football IQ from his incredible dedication to tape watching and study of schemes, he's not a powerful mauling guard like Sears or Joseph but he has very good technique and is very good blocking in space, he has a nice pass set but will tend to get over powered by stronger defensive tackles, he's still young and finding his niche in the league but he is a potential star waiting to happen when he puts it all together. Zuttah a rookie last season appeared in 12 games with 5 starts.

If the Buccaneers' GM Mark Dominik offered up Sears and a 4th round pick or Zuttah and a 3rd in exchange for Dorsey, the Chiefs would have a tough time turning him down. Dorsey is signed to a large, long term contract and his production would not justify the huge amount of money they will have to pay him, not to mention their franchise quarterback will suffer from sub-par protection.

Zuttah would be a great fit for the Chiefs because of his versatility he could provide an upgrade at four positions along the line, if placed at left guard he could be matched with Branden Albert and provide a solid left side to anchor the offense for the next decade. With the left side of the oline solidified the Chiefs can use their 1st round draft choice to pick up another piece for the 3-4 defense, like Wake Forest's Aaron Curry.

Dorsey would provide an immediate upgrade at the Bucs under tackle position and be the type of penetrating defensive tackle that can push back the pocket stopping opposing QB's from stepping up and allowing the edge rushers to run their line and attack the quarterback. If the Bucs were to able secure Glenn Dorsey for Jim Bates' defense it would allow the Bucs to spend their first round pick on a linebacker like USC's Brian Cushing, or QB Josh Freeman.

Hochstein Stays in New England Because He Likes How They Use Him

Russ Hochstein a back-up offensive lineman for the Patriots had a chance to depart the comforts of New England and potentially earn a starters role elsewhere via free agency this offseason, but opted to stay put.

A veteran of four Super Bowl squads, Hochstein's decision was partially influenced by the team's use of him in unusual ways. Hochstein was utilized in the team's Jumbo package and in goal line situations as either a tight end or a full back.

"Especially when you’ve been in the trenches so many years and you get to come out and do some different things." Hochstein says, he also admits that it is fun and he'd be willing to do it again.

The Patriots may just give the Nebraska product another chance in 2009, as both Mike Vrabel and Heath Evans, the other two players to play those positions, are no longer with the team.

Entering the ninth-year of his career, the 6'4" 305lbs Hochstein has started 12 games at guard, 10 games at center, two games at fullback and one game at tight end. He has spent the past seven seasons with the Patriots (2002-08) after being released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2001-02). Hochstein was originally a fifth round draft pick by Tamapa Bay in the 2001 NFL Draft.

Jets Considering A Training Camp Move

New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan is planning on bringing a new attitude to the Jets, it appears he is also planning on bringing a new training camp location.

The Jets are considering the University campuses of Colgate, Cornell and Cortland for their training camp. I appears as though Jets owner Woody Johnson is obviously hesitant to the idea, after spending $75 million to bild a training facility in Florham Park, N.J, but Ryan is pushing it hard.

The new facility does not have suitable parking or bleachers for the thousands of fans who normally attend training camp, or dormitories for the players. But that's not why Ryan wants to go elsewhere.

Many teams like the idea of moving training camp to a location other than the team's practice facility so the team can control the environment. Teams keep their players altogether in the dorms and feel it is a morale building move that develops team unity.

Vikings Match Bengals Offer for Tahi

The Bengals tried their best to get him back, but in the end the Vikings knew what they had.

The Vikings decided to matched Cincinnati's offer of one year and $1.4 million on Friday, meaning they will keep the restricted free agent.

Tahi was signed off the Bengals practice squad in 2006. He beat out Thomas Tapeh for the starting fullback job during the season and helped open holes for Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor in the running game.

Tahi is really excited to be back in Minnesota and ready to work on improving the team. He says he and Peterson got into a good groove in the second half of the season, leading the way to Petersons' league rushing title.

Bears Fan Makes Bullucks "Highlight Tape"

The Chicago Bears struggled on defense in 2008 and fans were hoping for drastic improvements via free agency. The fans haven't seen it, and one of them has expressed his anger with a "highlight" tape that has been posted on youtube.

Enjoy!

Saints Stay In-Division, Sign DT Coleman

The New Orleans Saints have stolen from division rival Atlanta Falcons by signing, DT Rod Coleman to a one-year deal. Financial terms were not released.

The 32-year-old former Pro Bowl selection did not play last season after being released by the Atlanta Falcons, where he had some of his best seasons under current Saints defensive line coach Bill Johnson. The 6-foot-2, 285-pound lineman led all NFL defensive tackles in sacks in 2004 (11.5) and 2005 (10.5) while Johnson was a Falcons assistant.

Coleman was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 1999 and has played nine seasons, his last four with Atlanta. He has 293 career tackles and 58.5 sacks. Coleman has played in 109 regular season games, starting 70. He also has played in nine postseason games, including the 2003 Super Bowl with the Raiders.

Chiefs RB Gets Probation

Chiefs RB Larry Johnson has pleaded guilty to two counts of disturbing the peace for separate incidents involving women at nightclubs last year.

A Kansas City Municipal Court judge sentenced Johnson to two years probation on Friday. Johnson has a chance to clear his name and have his guilty plea will be removed from public record if he finishes the probation without further incidents.

While on probation, Johnson will not be allowed to consume alcohol or be at any Kansas City bars or nightclubs after 9 p.m. He also must complete anger control counseling and 40 hours of community service.

Johnson was originally charged with assault for allegedly shoving one woman and spitting a drink in the face of another last year. Those charges were changed to disturbing the peace.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.

Saints Release Kaesviharn

The Saints released safety Kevin Kaesviharn, a decision made easier after signing veteran free agent Pierson Prioleau. The team didn't make an official announcement, but team spokesman Greg Bensel and Kaesviharn's agent Bruce Tollner both confirmed the move.

Kaesviharn, 32, was scheduled to earn $1.6 million in salary and bonuses this year. He had two years remaining on the four-year contract he signed in 2007, but the Saints decided to go in a different direction, signing veterans Darren Sharper and Prioleau in free agency.

Kaesviharn started 14 games over the past two years with the Saints. But was ineffective during that span, he was inconsistent in coverage, giving up too many deep passing plays.

He earned the full-time starting job at free safety last year but missed the final five games of the season after suffering a neck injury. He finished the 2008 season with 61 tackles and two interceptions, giving him a total of 97 tackles and two interceptions during his time in New Orleans.

Bills LB Signs Tender Offer

Buffalo Bills LB Keith Ellison has signed his restricted free agent tender offer. Ellison was tendered at his original draft round (sixth) level at $1.01 million.

He is scheduled to be the starter at strong side linebacker for the Bills next season.

The 25-year old LB is entering his 4th season. He has played in 42 games and collected 177 tackles 2 sacks and 2 interceptions.

Saints Continue Defensive Make-Over: Add Prioleau

The New Orleans Saints have added some depth to their secondary with the signing of Pierson Prioleau, terms of the contract were not revealed.

Prioleau, 5-11, 188 pounds, is a veteran of ten NFL seasons who has played with the San Francisco 49ers (1999-2000), Buffalo Bills (2001-2004), Washington Redskins (2005-2008) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (2008).

The move reunites Prioleau with defensive coordinator Gregg Williams; they have worked together in Jacksonville, Washington, and Buffalo.

He has played in 129 career regular season games during his career, making 48 starts, and has accumulated 371 career tackles, along with five-and-a-half sacks, and 130 career special teams tackles.

He'll likely serve as a back-up for the Saints, behind recently signed Darren Sharper and holdover Roman Harper.

Favre Watch 2009

Day 44

Eric Mangini has invited Brett Favre to Browns' Training Camp this summer..... as a guest coach.

Mangini told the New York Daily News that he and Favre have been text messaging since they last saw each other December 29, the day the Jets fired Mangini and the day after Favre played his final NFL game.

The two are discussing Favre joining Mangini at Browns camp this summer. Favre couldn't run the practice team because he is still under contract with the Jets, but Mangini didn't rule out Favre being a guest instructor for quarterbacks Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson.

Having Favre around a football camp again this summer will only increase the itch of the Annual "Flip Flopper" who can't seem to stay retired. Looks like we are in for another circus this summer and it looks like Eric Mangini is providing the tent.

Bears/Browns Swap Tackle Via Free Agency

Earlier this month the Cleveland Browns added long-time Bears OT John St. Clair to solidify the right side of their o-line, taking away a player the Bears desperately wanted to re-sign after the announcement that their other long-time OT John Tait had retired.

The Chicago Bears filled that void by signing a former Brown, OT Kevin Schaffer to a three-year deal. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Shaffer started 47 games for the Cleveland Browns the past three seasons, 31 at right tackle and 16 at left. Shaffer was selected by Atlanta in the seventh round of the 2002 draft. He made 39 starts with the Falcons and started the 2005 NFC title game against the Eagles.

Annual League Meetings Produces even more Rule Changes

The Competition Committee was busy at the Annual League Meetings this year in Dana Point California. The successfully passed 4 new rules on Tuesday with emphasis on players safety, they added to the rule changes today, including a rule that will forever be known as th "Ed Hochuli" rule.

Hochuli famously ruled Denver quarterback Jay Cutler to have thrown an incomplete pass in the final moments of a Week 2 game with San Diego last season. Replays clearly showed it was a fumble that the Chargers recovered, but the play was not part of the review process. Denver kept the ball and won the game seconds later. Now, it's reviewable.

Also, replay now can be used to determine if a loose ball hit the sideline. A Cardinals kickoff in January's NFC championship game was ruled to have gone out of bounds even though it was recovered in bounds by Arizona. Replays showed the ball never hit or crossed the sideline.

The draft order for playoff teams was reworked and will be based on where teams were eliminated in the postseason. Last season, the Chargers (8-8) beat the Colts (12-4) in a wild-card game, but San Diego will pick before Indianapolis in next month's draft. The new procedure begins in 2010.

A rule change was also applied to the onside kick, in which there will be no re-kick if the ball goes out of bounds on an onside kick. It will be immediately awarded to the opposing team. This rule was openly rejected by Eagles owner Jeff Lurie, who claims that this rule will force teams to re-think the use of surprise onside kicks to gain an advantage. Lurie explain that this is one of the most exciting plays in football and this rule may all but eliminate it.

Finally, on all fumbles and laterals that go out of bounds, the clock will start when the referee signals ready for play.

Performanced Based Pay Bonuses

The NFL's perfomanced based pay system numbers have been announced. Players earn the money based on a system that rewards players for playing time compared to their salary level. The payouts are derived by dividing playing time by total compensation in comparison to other players.

Players received a total of $105 million under the program, which was established in 2002. It’s scheduled to remain in place under the Collective Bargaining Agreement during years where there’s a salary cap. As it stands now 2010 is scheduled to be an uncapped year.

Here are the top 15 pay distributions:

(1) San Diego Chargers offensive tackle Jeromey Clary - $405,859;

(2) Arizona Cardinals center Lyle Sendlein - $348,134;

(3) Washington Redskins safety Chris Horton - $348,134;

(4) New Orleans Saints offensive guard Carl Nicks - $335,033;

(5) Cleveland Browns cornerback Brandon McDonald - $329,803;

(6) Jacksonville Jaguars offensive guard Uche Nwaneri - $323,788;

(7) New York Giants safety Michael Johnson - $315,650;

(8) Carolina Panthers safety Charles Godfrey - $311,294;

(9) Pittsburgh Steelers offensive guard Darnell Stapleton - $311,220;

(10) Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive tackle Donald Penn - $310,919;

(11) Houston Texans offensive guard Mike Brisiel - $304,063;

(12) Chicago Bears safety Kevin Payne - $302,218;

(13) Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Jared Gaither - $301,856;

(14) Buccaneers safety Tanard Jackson - $285,427;

(15) Cardinals wide receiver Steve Breaston - $268,762.

Dolphins Trade Satele to Raiders

The Miami Dolphins have been busy improving their offensive line this offseason, before free agency started the brought back last seasons starting right tackle Vernon Carey and earlier this month they added free agent center Jake Grove to compete for the starting center position.

The Dolphins just made Grove's push to win the starting center battle that much easier by trading last seasons starter Samson Satele to the Oakland Raiders, ironically Groves former team, for undisclosed draft choices.

Satele has started all 32 games in his career, since being drafted by the Miami Dolphins, but apparently did not fit Bill Parcells and his "yes man" head coach Tony Sporano's system.

Grove, the 29-year old out of Virginia Tech. has played his entire 5-year career in Oakland and has started 46 of his 54 career games, but has struggled with injuries his whole career and has played in a full 16 game season only once in his career (2006).

QB Competition in Cleveland

The Browns new head coach Eric Mangini, is still evaluating his roster and that includes the quarterback position. Derek Anderson is a former Pro Bowl quarterback and Brady Quinn is a high profile, former first round pick and hometown hero, but both quarterbacks were inherited by Mangini and new GM Kokinis so they hold affiliations to either signal caller.

"I don't have a projected starter at this point," Mangini said Tuesday at the NFL meetings.

Anderson received a big contract after his breakthrough '07 season, a three-year, $24 million deal with a $5 million bonus he collected this month. But he struggled before being replaced by Quinn for the ninth game.

Quinn, who has a five-year, $20.2 million contract, lasted just three games before breaking a finger on his right hand and needing surgery.

That is a lot of money tied up in two players at the quarterback position, so the Browns may consider shopping, one of the two high priced players. It has been speculated that both are on the trade block.

A wiser option would be to send one of the QB's and some draft choices to the Broncos in exchange for the disgruntled Jay Cutler. Who is also on the trade block and wants out of Denver after finding out the he was almost apart of a 3-way trade for Matt Cassel.

"George and I are looking at any opportunity to improve the team," Mangini said of general manager George Kokinis. "But I'm in no way saying that is specific to the quarterback situation. We'd look at any opportunities to improve the team, but not specific to the QB situation. Any opportunity that came up, we'd look at it."

Competition Committee Accepts New Safety Rules

The NFL and the Competition Committee wastes no time when it comes to player's safety, passing four new rule changes ahead of schedule on the usual owners meeting agenda. In past meetings, owners usually waited until Wednesdays to debate and vote on rule changes involving the game, but this year were voted in on Tuesday.

The NFL is going to outlaw the "wedge" on kickoffs, stop the bunching of players on onside kicks, protect blockers from a helmet-to-helmet hit from the blind side and save receivers from forearm or shoulder hits to the head when they appear to be defenseless.

Under terms of the new anti-wedge rule, no more than two players on the receiving team may intentionally form a wedge to help the returner. The penalty is 15 yards and will be enforced from the spot of the wedge. It will be called if three or more players line up shoulder to shoulder within 2 yards of each other to lead the blocking.

Under the new onside kick rule, players on the kickoff team will be spaced accordingly. First, at least four players of the kicking team must be on each side of the kicker. Second, at least three players must be lined up outside each inbounds line, including one who must be outside the yard-line number.

The third accepted proposal involves a play in which Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Hines Ward made a block that resulted in a broken jaw for Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Keith Rivers. A 15-yard penalty will be enforced if a player delivers a blind-side block to the head of a defender using his helmet, forearm or shoulder.



The final change addresses forearm and shoulder hits to protect defenseless receivers. In the past, officials gave an unnecessary roughness penalty to a defender if he delivered a helmet hit to a receiver going across the middle of the field or any spot on the field in which he appeared to be defenseless. Starting this fall, the penalty will also apply if the defender hits the defenseless receiver in the head or neck with his forearm or shoulder.

Also, defenders who are knocked to the ground no longer can lunge into quarterbacks if the play is still going on. Kansas City safety Bernard Pollard did just that on the hit that ended Tom Brady's season almost before it began, and Pereira placed such plays in the player safety category.



That adjustment was not a rule change and did not require an owners' vote.

Pereira was dismayed by the lack of progress in curbing horse-collar tackles. There were 24 called in 2008, up from 12, but there also were 47 league fines handed out for them.

"That's just too high a number," he said. "We have not been effective in terms of stopping the tactic."

Compensatory Picks announced.

The NFL has announced its compensatory picks for this years upcoming draft. The picks are awarded to teams that suffered a net loss of certain quality unrestricted free agents last year. The picks, start in the third round and are placed at the end of the round. In order here are the picks and the teams who received them.

3 (34-98) Cincinnati
3 (35-99) Chicago
3 (36-100) NY Giants
4 (33-133) San Diego
4 (34-134) San Diego
4 (35-135) Tennessee
4 (36-136) Indianapolis
5 (33-169) Pittsburgh
5 (34-170) New England
5 (35-171) San Francisco
5 (36-172) Dallas
5 (37-173) Tennessee
6 (33-206) Tennessee
6 (34-207) New England
6 (35-208) Dallas
6 (36-209) Cincinnati
7 (33-242) Tennessee
7 (34-243) Washington
7 (35-244) San Francisco
7 (36-245) Seattle
7 (37-246) Chicago
7 (38-247) Seattle
7 (39-248) Seattle
7 (40-249) Cincinnati
7 (41-250) Jacksonville
7 (42-251) Chicago
7 (43-252) Cincinnati
7 (44-253) Jacksonville
7 (45-254) Arizona
7 (46-255) Detroit
7 (47-256) Kansas City

Favre Watch 2009

Day 42

Inflated Ego, Deflated Contract; Tomlinson Restructures

Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson was faced with a decision, take a pay cut or get cut by the only professional team he has played for. In the end he restructured the final three years of his contract and saved the San Diego Chargers $2.25 million in salary-cap room.

Tomlinson was scheduled to make $24 million over the final three years of his contract. Under the new deal, the Chargers gave him a $2.875 million signing bonus and lowered his base salary to $3.825 million, a source said. In so doing, Tomlinson was able to keep the 2009 payout of his contract at $6.725 million.

That last number there is the important figure for Tomlinson and his ego, at $6.725 million he will still be on the books for more money than his back-up Darren Sproles who is scheduled to make $6.6 million this season under the terms of the franchise tag he was given before free agency.

If Tomlinson's back-up were to make more money than him, it would be viewed as an insult and would have likely caused even more trouble for the former star running back who has struggled to stay healthy the last few years and is not nearly as productive as his inflated contract and ego would warrant.

Browns Add Insurance, Sign WR Patten

The Cleveland Browns may be without the services of WR Donte Stallworth, for a long time, if not permanently as he awaits the legal repercussions of a fatal accident he was involved in earlier this month. When Stallworth's car struck and killed a pedestrian with his Bentley in Miami Beach.

In response to these events the Cleveland Browns have added some insurance in the form of WR David Patten, who had previously played with the team in 2000. The terms of his contract were not disclosed.

The well travelled wide receiver has played the last two seasons in New Orleans but has also had previous stops in the New York Giants, New England, and Washington. He won two Super Bowl titles with the Patriots.

For his career Patten has 324 catches for 4,715 yards and four touchdowns in 147 regular-season games in 12 NFL seasons.

The Vikings Extend Griffin

The Minnesota Vikings have extended the contract of one of the NFL's hardest hitting cornerbacks, Cedric Griffin. Terms of the contract were not disclosed, but Griffin said they were similar to the contract he signed as a rookie.

The former University of Texas star has made 38 starts since joining the Vikings as a second round pick in 2006, and is half of the formidable cornerback tandem alongside Antoine Winfield.

"He is an aggressive, physical, contact football player whose best football is in front of him," coach Brad Childress said.

The contract comes following Griffin's pro-bowl season, where he notched 91 tackles, 4 forced fumbles and 1 interception.

"It feels good to know that someone's committed to you," Griffin said. "That really put it to me that I'm really going to be dedicated to them and give them my all. I'm already dedicated, but it just makes me that much more motivated."

*UPDATE* The terms of Griffin's contract were not immediately available, but according to our buddy Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com, the deal is for five years and a total of a little more than $25 million. It contains $10 million in guaranteed money.

Bengals Sign FB Tahi to Offer Sheet

Viking FB Naufahu Tahi, a restricted free agent has been signed to an offer sheet by the Cincinnati Bengals.

Because he is a restricted free agent, and Minnesota tendered him a one-year contract at $1.01 million, the Vikings retained a right of first refusal. The terms of the offer sheet, believed to be for one year, were not yet available.

Tahi spent last season with the Vikings, the former Brigham Young standout is a strong lead blocker and rarely used as a ball carrier, as evidenced by his 23 touches over 3 seasons, he has helped clear the way for Minnesota tailback Adrian Peterson last year and his 1,760 yards.

The Vikings have seven days to either match the offer by Cincinnati or pass on it. If they match it, the Vikings will assume the major terms of the offer sheet. If they opt not to match, Tahi will move to the Bengals, and the Vikings will receive no compensation, because Tahi originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent.

Cornell Green Hits 'Baby Mama' with Mop Handle

Oakland Raiders' offensive lineman Cornell Green has been arrested on a domestic violence charge in Florida, according to an Associated Press report published in the Tampa Tribune.

A Tampa police report indicates that Green became violent Saturday during an argument with the mother of his two children in his home. Police say Green slammed 30-year-old Teriyonal Ebony Flowers into a wall, then struck her right arm with an aluminum mop handle.

Green then fled the scene and was later apprehended at the Tampa International Airport while waiting for a flight to Oakland, Calif.

The 32-year-old tackle was being held Sunday at the Hillsborough County jail on a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.

'Big Baby' Rogers a No-Show at Browns Workouts

Disgruntled Browns DT Shaun "Big Baby" Rogers' feud with head coach Eric Mangini continues. The Feud began a few months ago when on two separate occasions Mangini refused to initiate conversation with his new star defensive tackle.

Rogers didn't take the snubs lightly, as things escalated to the point where he asked to be released from his six-year, $42 million contract. To further his displeasure with the coach Rogers has been a no-show for the team's off-season workout program.

Despite these workouts being voluntary, it is expected for players to attend and participate, as many view these workout sessions as team building activities. Mangini has said that he expects the entire team to attend and while likely be offended by Rogers' absence.

Rogers is guaranteed a $5 million bonus this month, making the player's release unlikely, and should earn an additional $950,000 in likely-to-be-reached incentives when he's on the field. Mangini has since attempted to reach out to Rogers, but his absence this week makes it clear that there is still much work to be done to patch up the relationship.

Saints Release Veteran CB McKenzie

The New Orleans Saints have released 11-year veteran cornerback, Mike McKenzie after spending five seasons with the team. The move will save $4.575 Million in salary cap room.

McKenzie joined the Saints via a trade with the Green Bay Packers in 2004 but has been limited by injuries the last few season. The release does not come as a suprise as the Saints have been upgrading their defensive backfield over the last two seasons adding; Jason David, Randall Gay and Jabari Greer in free agency. They also drafted starter Tracy Porter last season. The Saints are also said to be interested in drafting CB/FS Malcolm Jenkins out of Ohio State.

When not limited by injuries, McKenzie has a reputation of being one of the better man-to-man coverage players in the league.

Cardinals Re-Sign Elton Brown

The Arizona Cardinals, who played in last seasons Super Bowl, but wound up losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers, have set out to keep last years squad intact and have announced the re-signing of their sixth unrestricted free agent guard Elton Brown.

He joins quarterback Kurt Warner, defensive end Bertrand Berry, punter Ben Graham, linebacker Clark Haggans and quarterback Brian St. Pierre who have all re-signed since becoming free agents this off-season.

The terms of his contract were not disclosed.

A former fourth-round choice of the Cardinals in 2005, Brown (6-5, 332 pounds), who played his college ball at Virginia, showed his potential by starting nine games as a rookie. He experienced knee problems in 2005 and eventually was forced to miss the entire 2006 season. He started nine games in 2007, but lost his starting job to Deuce Lutui, who is currently the starter.

Weaver Winds Up In Philly

Former Seattle Seahawks fullback Leonard Weaver who was courted by several NFL teams, weighed his contract options and wound up choosing the Philadelphia Eagles as his new home.

The Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Seattle Seahawks also made offers to Weaver, and some for more money, but Weaver liked his playing chances in Philly enough to accept the one-year $1.75 Million but also has incentives that could take the deal to $2.5 Million.

Undrafted out of Carson-Newman, Weaver has played his entire 4 year professional career with the Seattle Seahawks and is known as a versatile fullback. In his career4 has has amassed 356 rushing yards on 80 carries along with 547 receiving yards on 60 catches and 3 TD's (1 rushing, 2 receiving). He is coming off a season where he participated in more than 50 percent of the Seahawks offensive plays.

Bears Sign Safety

The Chicago Bears have agreed to terms with safety Glenn Earl, to a one year deal worth the veteran minimum of $620,000. Earl has not played a game in the NFL in two-seasons.

Earl had his career seemingly cut short in the final preseason game of 2007, when he suffered a Lisfranc injury of the foot. Earl was placed on injured reserve for 2007, and was released in 2008. He has not played in the NFL since then, but is healthy again now that the foot is fully healed.

Earl, 27, will likely be competing to play on special teams, and as a nickel defender, as he re-adjusts to the speed of the game after his two-year lay-off.

A four-year veteran, Earl was originally a fourth-round pick of Houston in the 2004 draft. The former Notre Dame standout provided size and play-making ability to the Texans' secondary before his injury. And in 2006, he had a career-high 74 tackles.

For his career, Earl has 153 tackles, two sacks, three interceptions, and four passes defensed. He has 31 starts and has played in 37 games. Earl has a good shot to adding to his career start total by joing the Bears, who recently released veteran safety Mike Brown.

Detroit to Retire Corey Smith's Jersey

The Detroit Lions will retire the number 93 for the 2009 football season in memory of player Corey Smith, one of three men lost when their fishing boat capsized off the Florida Gulf Coast three weeks ago.

The announcement was made during a memorial service for Smith. Lions player development director Galen Duncan told several hundred mourners in Smith's hometown church Saturday that Smith's number would be retired for a year in honor of a player of extraordinary heart and competitive drive.

Many of Smith's teammates from the Lions, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the San Francisco 49ers where he played his first four NFL seasons attended the memorial service. So did former teammates and coaches from North Carolina State and from Richmond's John Marshall High School.

His high school coach, Kevin Burden, tearfully conceded that he was never impartial about the quiet giant who was the team's undisputed leader.

"You're not supposed to have a favorite player when you are a coach, but he was the one who got under your skin. He was a great football player but he was an even better man," Burden said in a faltering voice. "Tonight, when I say my prayers, I will ask God to assign me a guardian angel and he'll be wearing number 93," Burden concluded, leaving many in the crowd sobbing or wiping their eyes.

Bucs Rebuilding Linebacking Core

Last month the Buccaneers in a shocking move released 14-year veteran WLB Derrick Brooks and his SLB mate Cato June in a youth movement intended many local fans refer to as "Black Wednesday".

The Buccaneers have started the rebuilding process of their linebacking core with a pair of moves today. The first was to sign Buffalo Bills free agent LB Angelo Crowell to replace June as the SLB, the second was to inform recently re-signed SS Jermaine Phillips that the team would like him to replace Brooks as the WLB in new defensive co-ordinator Jim Bates' defense.

Terms of their contracts were not disclosed.

"I'd never played linebacker before, and I told them I'll never know how effective I'm going to be at the position or how fun it will be for me unless I try it" Phillips told buccaneers.com.

Phillips is now faced with the nearly impossible task of replacing a 11-time Pro Bowler in Brooks, luckily Phillips has experience replacing a local legend on the football field. Earlier in his career he was charged with the task of replacing John Lynch after his release.

"When they asked me, I was like first Lynch, now Brooks. Who's going to be next?" Phillips said "But I look at it like this: nobody can ever replaced a John Lynch, nobody can ever replace a Derrick Brooks. What they've done for the game of football is unmatched. All I can do is go out there and play the(Will) linebacker position the best way I can. Hopefully, everybody will learn to love me the way they loved them.''

Crowell, 27, was a third round pick of the Buffalo Bills in 2003. He is coming off a season-ending knee surgery that sidelined him in 2008. He will compete for a starting job at strong-side linebacker, where third-year player Quincy Black currently sits atop the depth chart.

In 2007 he recorded a career year, leading Buffalo with 140 tackles and two sacks. He was only linebacker in the NFL that season to record a safety, sack, interception, forced fumble and fumble recovery. At 6-1 and 246 pounds, adds some bulk to the Bucs' linebacking corps, he will also add experience of which the Bucs are currently lacking after the aforemention "Black Wednesday" with 41 career starts.

L.J. Smith Reunites with Harbaugh in Baltimore

L.J. Smith, the former Philadelphia Eagles franchise player has agrred to terms with the Baltimore Ravens on a one-year $1.5 Million deal, which is pending a physical.

Smith, 28, spent the past six seasons in Philadelphia, where Ravens head coach John Harbaugh spent most of his career as an assistant. Baltimore has been looking for depth at tight end to play alongside current starter Todd Heap, who's had several injuries in recent seasons. He will also provide another recieving threat for the young developping QB Joe Flacco.

Many believed that Smith would end up in Atlanta, with the other young developping QB, and last seasons rookie of the year, QB Matt Ryan. When a deal never materialized, Smith continued his search to Detroit and eventually ended up with the Ravens.

Since becoming a second round choice of the Eagles in 2003, Smith has caught 231 passes for 2,525 yards (10.9 avg.) and 18 TD's. His best season came in 2006 when he caught 50 passes for 611 yards (12.2 avg.) and 5 TD's

Saints Sign C Leckey

The New Orleans Saints have announced the signing of veteran center Nick Leckey to a one-year contract. Financial terms were not disclosed.

A 6th round pick of the Cardinals in 2004, out of Kansas State player he has also played in St. Louis where he started 10 games last season before a broken bone in his foot ended his season.

Jets Match Offer Sheet to Elam

The New York Jets were determined to keep at least one of their free agents away from Cleveland and have decided to match the Browns one-year $1.5 Million offer sheet for S Abram Elam.

Elam, a restricted free agent was given an offer sheet by the Browns and per NFL rules the Jets had seven days to match it, or recieve compensation in the form of a draft pick. He started nine games last season, his second with the Jets. Browns coach Eric Mangini already has signed four of his former Jets players, and Cleveland signed Elam to an offer sheet last week,

The 27-year-old Elam had 56 tackles and returned an interception 92 yards for a touchdown, he also had three forced fumbles. Elam also had 11 special teams tackles.

Cards Re-Sign Haggans

The Arizona Cardinals have re-signed free agent linebacker Clark Haggans to a three-year contract. Financial terms of the contract weren't disclosed.

Haggans played in 11 games for Arizona last season, with 27 tackles, one sack and a fumble recovery in a season where the Cardinals advanced to the Super Bowl. He missed the final three games of the regular season and the entire postseason with a foot injury.

The 6-foot-4, 243-pound linebacker is a 10-year veteran. He joined Arizona as a free agent in 2008 after spending his first eight pro seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In his 9 pro-seasons, Haggans has appeared in 119 games, 61 as a starter tallying 334 tackles 33.5 sacks and 1 interception. He started for the Steelers in their Super Bowl victory over Seattle three seasons ago.

Chiefs Add Three

The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to terms with three player; linebacker Monte Beisel and wide receivers Bobby Engram and Terrance Copper. Terms of the contracts have not yet been revealed.

Beisel has previously played for the Chiefs from 2001-2004, after his collegiate career at Kansas State. He has most recently played with the Arizona Cardinals and the New England Patriots.

Engram, a former Nittany Lion began his NFL career with the Chicago Bears in 1996 and went to the Seattle Seahawks in 2001. He has caught 645 career passes for 7,690 yards with 35 touchdowns, and has returned two punts for touchdowns.

Copper has played in 63 games with five starts during stints in Dallas, New Orleans and Baltimore. He also has 41 tackles while playing on special teams.

Saints Sign Spicer

The New Orleans Saints have announced the signing of veteran defensive end Paul Spicer to a one-year deal. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Spicer, 33, started his career in Detroit, but has spent the last 9 years with the Jaguars. He is following his defensive coordinator Gregg Williams from Jacksonville to New Orleans.

According to NFL.com the 10 year veteran has notched 252 career tackles along with 28.5 sacks (21.5 sacks coming in the last 4 seasons) and 1 interception.

Colts Re-Sign Federkeil

The Indianapolis Colts have re-signed Canadian offensive lineman Dan Federkeil.

Federkeil, is a versatile o-lineman from Medicine Hat, Alberta. He has played in 22 games in three seasons with Indianapolis, including three starts last year at right guard. The 6'6" 290lbs lineman has also played as a reserve at right tackle and on special teams.

Federkeil joined the Colts as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Calgary in 2006. Terms of his new contract were not disclosed Tuesday.

Rams Busy, Re-Sign Setterstrom, Moore and Sign Four Others

The St. Louis Rams have been busy in the free agent front and have announced a flurry of moves. The have re-signed OG Mark Setterstrom, and DE Eric Moore as well as signing quarterback Jeff Otis, defensive back Marcus Brown, tight end Eric Butler and center Tim Mattran.

Setterstrom, a seventh round choice in 2006 played 6 games as a rookie, the 3 more in 2007 but has been sidelined basically two full years due to back-to-back knee injuries.

Moore is a four-year veteran who played in seven games for St. Louis in 2008. Otis is the son of former St. Louis Cardinals running back Jim Otis. He has been on practice squads for the Chiefs and Raiders.

No terms of any of the contracts were disclosed.

Obama Nominates Dan Rooney to be Ambassador to Ireland

President Barack Obama, an admitted sports fan, has selected Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney to be U.S. ambassador to Ireland. The announcement was conveniently made on St. Patrick's day.

Obama may be returning the favor to Rooney who publicly endorsed Obama over Hillary Clinton during Pennsylvania's Democratic primary; Clinton won the contest last April. Rooney later campaigned for him in Steelers country in western Pennsylvania, and Obama went on to win the state last November.

Obama said in a statement that he has confidence that Rooney and Secretary of State Clinton "will ensure America's continued close and unique partnership with Ireland in the years ahead."

In the 1970s, Rooney helped found the American Ireland Fund, an organization that has raised millions for advocacy of peace and education in Ireland.

Favre Watch 2009

Day 35

Jacksonville Releases Troubled Jones

The Jacksonville Jaguars have released their troubled former first-round pick after his most recent arrest. Jones was jailed last week in Arkansas for violating a plea agreement that stemmed from a drug charge in 2008.

Matt Jones failed a drug and alcohol screening, when he drank beer while golfing with friends. He assured the judge it wouldn't happen again. The Jacksonville Jaguars and possibly the NFL are not willing to take that risk.

"All roster moves are decisions we feel are in the best interest of the organization," Jaguars general manager Gene Smith said. "This decision is a result of our ongoing player and roster evaluations. We expect responsibility and accountability, and those are important qualities as we continue the process of building this team."

Jones is coming off his best season where he caught 65 passes for 761 yards and two touchdowns, but his off field troubles clearly out weighed his on field production. In fact many expected Jones to get his walking papers last July after the original cocaine charges were filed.

New York Ravens Sign Another Baltimore Defender

If the Cleveland Browns are becoming the Cleveland Jets than the New York Jets may be attempting to become the New York Ravens. New head coach Rex Ryan has added a third defender from his former Baltimore squad.


Defensive End Marques Douglas will join his former teammates LB Bart Scott and S Jim Leonard after agreeing to terms on a contract with the Jets. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

The 32-year-old Douglas had 36 tackles last season with the Ravens after he was released from the Buccaneers after training camp. He was originally signed by Baltimore as an undrafted free agent out of Howard in 1999, and had three stints with the Ravens. Douglas has also played for New Orleans and San Francisco.

Paymah Lands in Minnesota After Heavy Recruiting

The Minnesota Vikings have signed highly sought after and former Denver Broncos CB Karl Paymah. He agreed to a one-year, $1.55 million deal, according to a source.

Paymah was under consideration from the Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the Vikings calling and recruiting, finally got him to commit to joining one of the most talented defenses in the NFL.

Included in the deal, according to a source, are $500,000 of incentives that could take the deal over the $2 million mark.

Paymah, 26, is a 5th year pro with good size for a cornerback at 6-0, 195 pounds. He had five starts in his four-year career all with the Broncos, but was getting more playing time with the team each season.

Barnes Signs With Raiders

The Raiders were the early leaders in the race for Jaguars LT Khaliff Barnes, but then it appeared their interest had cooled. Well it has heated up again and the Raiders have inked the 5th year pro to a one-year deal. Financial terms were not released.

Barnes had been in contract talks with the Buccaneers but it was the promise of playing time in Oakland that sealed the deal. The Raiders have an opening at LT with Kwame Harris recently being released and Barnes has started ever since being a second-round choice of the Jaguars in in 2005 and was not willing to be a back-up.

"I think this is a great opportunity and place for me to start fresh," Barnes said. "I'm excited to be part of helping this franchise get back on top and I will have a shot to be the starter at left tackle and that's all I can ask for. I have a lot to prove and I'm betting on myself by agreeing to a one-year contract. [Raiders owner] Mr. [Al] Davis has a track record of taking care of his own guys and he promised me the same, if I take care of my business on and off the field."