July 2009 4for4 Player News Articles

QB Michael Vick is currently working out for the Patriots staff at Gillette Stadium, a very reliable NFL source just told me. The source said, as of 3:30 p.m., Vick was on the field attempting to display that he remains one of the most athletic players the NFL had seen prior to his arrest.

A second source has now also confirmed it.

Broncos QB Tom Brandstater looks like an NFL quarterback. Great size for the position and a solid release and spiral.

Broncos WR Brandon Marshall was dressed, he was dancing to the music, and he looked happy to be on the football field. I get the feeling that everything can turn out okay, now that the fans are cheering every time he touches the football (which they are), and that the focus can be between the lines, not outside them. Marshall made several great catches and looked to have no lasting effects from the hip surgery. The Beast looks ready.

Broncos Ryan Torain is back and better than ever. Again, it is early and Torain needs to prove he can stay healthy, but the quickness and moves he showed last year have returned. David Bruton is still looking for his jock after one particular move by Torain in 11-on-11 drills.

Bucs RB Cadillac Williams says he is done with rehabbing his injured knee and he’s anxious to participate fully when Tampa Bay’s training camp opens Saturday morning at the team facility.

“I am so excited about this opportunity,’’ said Williams, who was hurt in the 2008 season finale against Oakland, one year after suffering another knee injury that required surgery. “I’m good, I’m rested and I’m ready to go. I haven’t been this excited in years.’‘

Falcons Pro Bowl receiver Roddy White, who held out after being drafted 27th in the 2005 NFL Draft, was a no-show during the team's media availability session on Friday.
White and the rest the team has until 5 p.m. to report for training camp, which opens on Saturday.

Team members will be considered a holdout if they don't arrive in time for the first team meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Cardinals QB Kurt Warner said his hip remains sore following offseason surgery. He played through pain last season and started 20 games, counting playoffs, so this doesn't stand out as a big concern. But he's hoping to feel more comfortable.

Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson took the first snaps of each team drill, but Sage Rosenfels also got turns with the first team. Coach Brad Childress said Thursday he would use some version of a coin flip to make that call, but Friday he wouldn't say how he came to that decision. Rosenfels said he didn't know how it came to be. To the amateur eye, Jackson appeared sharper during the morning practice

Texans MLB DeMeco Ryans and TE Owen Daniels reported for practice Friday even though both are still hoping to sign multiyear contracts before the start of the season. Cornerback Dunta Robinson, the team's franchise player, isn't in camp because he's unhappy with his contract situation.
"It's a bad message when you look at it because you have top guys on the team not getting deals," Ryans said. "If they want to reward me, they'll reward me. If not, there are other teams out there that'll like to. I can't make them give me the deal."
Daniels left the Texans' organized team activities in May because of his contract situation.

During camp and preseason, the competition for playing time behind running back Steve Slaton should be fierce.
Veterans Chris Brown and Ryan Moats and rookies Arian Foster and Jeremiah Johnson are competing for the backup job as well as a spot on the team. Their performance is going to get a lot of attention before the final cuts are made in September.
Brown is ahead because he has the most experience, but he's been hurt every year he's been in the league, including all of last season. Moats performed well after the Texans signed him last season. Foster has a head start on Johnson because he was able to participate in organized team activities as well as the minicamp. Not surprisingly, Brown looks the best and could be a tremendous addition if he can stay healthy.

Broncos WR Brandon Marshall was present and accounted for when the Broncos took the field at 8:45 a.m. today at Dove Valley for their first full-squad practice of training camp, but defensive players Champ Bailey, Renaldo Hill and Marcus Thomas did not take the field. That threesome was placed on the active physically-unable-to-perform list on Thursday.

Players had to pass a physical and a conditioning test on Thursday in order to be able to practice today. Players on the active PUP list can be removed from it at any time.

Vikings coach Brad Childress described himself as a "worry wart" this time of the year, so naturally he expressed concern that first-round draft pick Percy Harvin remained unsigned on the eve of today's first practice of training camp.

Speaking Thursday at his pre-camp news conference, Childress said he didn't expect the rookie wide receiver from Florida to arrive "at least right this second." Childress said negotiations between vice president of football operations Rob Brzezinski and Harvin's agent, Joel Segal, were ongoing.

Working well into Thursday evening, the Washington Redskins reached a five-year deal with first-round draft pick Brian Orakpo.

The deal, which Orakpo signed Friday morning, calls for $12.1 million guaranteed.

Orapko became the 11th first-round pick to reach an agreement. After two days of training camp, the Redskins have all of their draft choices under contract and were expected to practice Friday with the entire team.

"This was more nerve-racking than actually being drafted," Orakpo told the team's Web site. "You really want to get in because you know your teammates are there working and you want to get in to get started to have a miraculous season."

Barring injury, Titans Kerry Collins is the Titans' QB of record. He will get the starter's treatment in training camp and will play sparingly in preseason games — "two or three series," Fisher said.

Beyond that, Collins has settled seamlessly back into the preferred role he held for so long in his NFL career — No. 1 quarterback. In the 11 seasons before he joined the Titans, Collins started 145 of the 152 games in which he appeared. He knows his way around the huddle.

"He's been here every day. He's here working with the receivers," Fisher said.

Sure, there are concerns about his age. With the retirements of Brett Favre and Trent Green, Collins is one of the position's elder statesmen. Among quarterbacks that project as NFL starters this season, only Jeff Garcia (39) and Kurt Warner (38) are older.

But Collins benefits from the fact that he played so little in 2006 and '07. He was safely out of harm's way for most of those two seasons. And didn't take the customary beating you expect as an NFL QB.

LBs aren't in the habit of going long, but Antonio Pierce has so much to say to a Manhattan grand jury that he needs this morning to finish his testimony.

Pierce, who spent nearly 3hours yesterday trying to wriggle from the blood-splattered Glock handgun of former Giants teammate Plaxico Burress, walked into court this morning to finish up his testimony.

Pierce, who did not answer questions from reporters as he walked into the building, allegedly took the gun to Burress' house in New Jersey after driving the ex-Giant to the hospital after the weapon accidentally fired inside the receiver's pants at a nightclub last November.

The Saints will head into the 2009 season preparing to play the first four games without defensive ends Will Smith and Charles Grant.

The two players tested positive for a banned substance last season and have gone through a lengthy appeal process. All of the appeals, though, were denied and both Smith and Grant are set to begin four-game suspensions when the season opens on Sept. 13 against Detroit in the Superdome.

But there's still some confusion, as Minnesota's Kevin and Pat Williams - who also tested positive for the same substance - continue to fight to have the suspensions blocked in Minnesota courts.

As of right now, the Saints are moving forward on the issue until they're told differently. Which means, they're basically preparing to start the season without Grant or Smith in the lineup.

...reported a rumor saying the Broncos may be holding disgruntled receiver Brandon Marshall out of practice because they are shopping him to another team.
That report is gaining steam, and Yahoo Sports reported said the Baltimore Ravens are revisiting the idea of trading for Marshall.
The report says the Ravens are the most likely candidate to land Marshall if he was to be traded.
The Broncos have been quiet about dealing Marshall, saying that they aren’t shopping Marshall but will listen to offers for him.

Coach Wade Phillips promised that he would be tougher on the Cowboys and hold them more accountable for mistakes.

"There are a lot of ways to do it," Phillips said. "Some people have them run after practice. We may resort to that. To me, embarrassing a guy in front of everyone else, and showing the teammates you’re not doing it right, no matter who it is, that gets them to concentrate more. When you run a guy after practice, it’s kind of like you’re punishing him but it’s not in front of the whole team. It’s something I wanted to do, we talked about doing, so we’ll see how it works out."

Despite a fumble, Cowboys RB Marion Barber was one of the players who stood out in the eyes of Wade Phillips on the first day of pads. The others included TEs Jason Witten and Martellus Bennett, nose tackle Jay Ratliff and LB DeMarcus Ware, who had 3 sacks in the morning practice alone.

Barber looked strong, quick and powerful, according to Phillips and seemingly focused on bouncing back from an injury-plagued season in 2008.

Phillips said Barber is benefiting from a full off-season program for the first time in two years. Last year, Barber spent time in Miami with agent Drew Rosenhaus in the midst of a contract dispute.

"It’s my own opinion, but him being out last year hurt him some," Phillips said. "I haven’t seen a guy have a great year that wasn’t in the program. Now that doesn’t mean they can’t go off and have a great year, but that’s what I’ve seen so far."

Even if Michael Vick is available, Jerry Jones says the Dallas Cowboys have no plans to sign the suspended quarterback.

The Cowboys owner has repeatedly said since Vick was released by the Atlanta Falcons last year that his team won't sign Vick.

Vick was freed from federal custody this week for dogfighting charges and is awaiting word from NFL commissioner Roger Goodell about if and when he will be reinstated.

Responding to a question Friday about Vick, Jones said his stance hasn't changed.

"It hasn't," Jones said, emphasizing that by repeating that phrase twice more in a matter of seconds.

Bears HC Lovie Smith is adamant Michael Vick deserves a second chance but doesn't see room for the free-agent quarterback on his roster even though the Bears have a spot available. Smith acknowledged Vick would provide a different dimension behind Jay Cutler. The Bears have two backups -- Caleb Hanie and Brett Basanez -- without NFL experience or the dynamic playmaking ability Vick showed in his first go-round with the Falcons.

''I think Mike deserves a second chance, I'll say that again,'' Smith said. ''Like everyone in society after they have paid their debt to society on any type of crime, you deserve a second chance.

''As far as we're concerned, we like the team we have right now. So if you're asking me about whether we're looking for receivers or are we going to trade guys, we like this team. I don't think we need to add anything else at this time.''

A toned-down Anquan Boldin says he will let his new agent deal with his long-simmering contract dispute with the Cardinals.

After the defending NFC champions went through a conditioning test in training camp on Thursday, the three-time Pro Bowl WR said he will keep his feelings about the contract to himself.
Asked Thursday if he thought the team is being straight with him, Boldin brushed the question aside.
"That's irrelevant," he said. "How I feel isn't going to change a thing."
That's a stark contrast to almost a year ago, when he lashed out at the team's management, accusing the Cardinals of lying to him.

This will be the most-watched competition of Ravens camp, with Steve Hauschka, who kicked off last year and attempted long field goals for the Ravens, and undrafted rookie free agent Graham Gano of Florida State teeing it up. Their performance in camp and exhibition games could keep the team from calling on the only kicker the franchise has ever known, Matt Stover, who has become a "lacrosse dad" as retirement looms.

Who steps up at Ravens WR? With Derrick Mason announcing his retirement, the Ravens need someone to become Joe Flacco's go-to guy. Veterans Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams will get the first shots, but Kelley Washington, Marcus Smith and Justin Harper, who impressed earlier this week during practices for rookies and select veterans, have the most to gain from this opportunity.

The Redskins have signed No. 1 draft pick Brian Orakpo who is expected to practice Friday.

Vikings top pick Percy Harvin remains unsigned and was not here as the team kicked off its first training camp practice this morning.

Negotiations are ongoing between the Vikings and Harvin's agent, Joel Segal.

The players drafted just before and after Harvin, the 22nd overall pick, have signed contracts.

Harvin is in line for a raise over what Felix Jones, the 22nd pick last year, received (five years, $10.5 million, with $7.6 million in guarantees). But the issue between the Vikings and Segal is apparently over how much the increase should be.

What affect will the lack of a contract extension for wide receiver Roddy White have on the team? It’s clear the Falcons want to work something out. It appears they are working on their timetable and not White’s, who wanted a deal done before the season started.

One long-time league observer pointed out that the season starts when you put on the pads, not with the first regular-season kickoff.

Lions third-round pick Derrick Williams signed a three-year contract, the team has confirmed. Brandon Pettigrew, a first-round choice, is the only unsigned rookie as the Lions prepare to open training camp later today. The Lions will have their first practice on Saturday.

Jets RB Leon Washington ended his one-day holdout, showing up for the first training-camp practice this morning at SUNY-Cortland.

It's believed that Washington still has not received a new contract, but negotiations are continuing.

The two sides had made progress in recent days, but as of late last night, the talks had hit a standstill, according to a person familiar with the negotiations. Evidently, Washington had it in his mind that he was going to come to camp no matter what, deal or no deal.

The Ravens placed veteran wide receiver Kelley Washington on the PUP list. Washington isn’t expected to remain on that list for long, though. He has been suffering from flu symptoms, but is expected to be heathy enough to practice soon.

Former Pro Bowl running back Willis Mcgahee and starting offensive guard Ben Grubbs are no longer on the physically unable to perform list.

McGahee and Grubbs were activated from the list Thursday and are slated to practice today at McDaniel College during the Ravens’ first full-team practice.

McGahee has been recovering from offseason arthroscopic knee surgery. Grubbs had ankle surgery after last season.

Ravens All-Pro free safety Ed Reed was placed on the physically unable to perform list Thursday.

The former NFL Defensive Player of the Year battled a nerve impingement in his neck and shoulder last season that prevented him from being utilized as much as usual in run support and on safety blitzes. Reed was still the only unanimous All-Pro selection in the NFL last season, leading the league with nine interceptions.

Patriots coach Bill Belichick isn't saying whether his team is interested in Michael Vick.

After the Patriots' first practice of training camp Thursday, Belichick was asked his thoughts about Vick's possible return to the NFL. He praised Vick's athleticism but left it at that. Vick said Thursday that he's getting close to signing with a team.

"Michael is an outstanding player, hasn't played in a couple of years," Belichick said. "But right now, our focus is on our team and our players and trying to get the New England Patriots ready and so that's really where my attention's been. But he's a tremendous athlete. Where exactly he is right now, I don't know."

Giants waived WR Micah Rucker.

Bucs have agreed to a five-year contract worth $26 million with first-round pick QB Josh Freeman.

RB Reggie Bush and WR Marques Colston will enter camp 100 percent.

Browns agreed to terms with second-round WR Brian Robiskie on a four-year contract.

Broncos placed CB Champ Bailey on the active/PUP list.

Raiders released QB Andrew Walter.

Rex Ryan said Kellen Clemens will go into camp as the No. 1 QB on the depth chart, with rookie Mark Sanchez No. 2. But Ryan said it remains an "open competition." He said Clemens will get most of the first-team reps in the early going.

Ravens activated Willis Mcgahee from the active/PUP list.

Bills placed RB Justise Hairston (knee) on injured reserve.

Jaguars signed seventh-round WR Tiquan Underwood to a multi-year contract.

Giants waived WR Micah Rucker.

Chad Ochocinco reported to Bengals training camp Thursday.

FA WR Matt Jones' agent has talked to Jets, Titans, Bears and Cowboys.

Patriots ILB Jerod Mayo participated fully in practice Thursday.

Despite being unhappy with his contract, Bucs MLB Barrett Ruud will report for training camp.

The UFL reportedly could offer Michael Vick as much as $1.6 million to play six games this season. A deal like that means Vick could be the face of that league, which starts play on Oct. 8. If his UFL team did not make the playoffs, he could be available to play in the NFL as early as mid-November.

The newly formed United Football League should be an appealing option for him. Even if it means he has to compete against lesser talents, Vick would be able to show us something about his current ability -- and he'd easily have a better chance of being a full-time quarterback in that league. If Vick proved he still could be a playmaker after a few games in the UFL, you could expect NFL teams to be far more willing to pursue him. If he also had a chance to see how protesters reacted to him in that league, he'd also give NFL decision-makers a means for gauging what kind of public-relations fiasco they'd be dealing with by signing him.

Michael Vick said Thursday that he is getting close to signing with a professional football team but refused to elaborate.

Vick made the comment to reporters as he left a courtroom after a hearing in his bankruptcy case. Asked about his progress in signing with a team, Vick said: "We're getting close." He declined to answer additional questions.

This could possibly be an NFL or UFL team.

Jets Veteran running back Thomas Jones, who is unhappy with his contract, did report to camp today. Jones, who is scheduled to make $900,000 this season, had skipped most of the voluntary offseason workouts but did participate in a mandatory June minicamp.

Oakland 1st round pick, wide receiver Darrius Heyward-bey has agreed to terms on a five-year deal, according to his agent, Ben Dogra. He has not signed the contract but is expected to Friday when he reports to training camp in Napa Valley, Ca. The Raiders started practice Thursday.

Tom Brady practiced fully on Thursday. This is good news, as he will not have to start camp on the active/PUP list.

Chargers WR Buster Davis has been catching passes virtually nonstop in training camp. He's been Philip Rivers' favorite target during the first three days of training camp, and has hauled in most everything thrown his way.

The Chargers expected such production when they drafted him No. 30 overall in 2007, on game days as opposed to a portion of camp reserved by rookies and select veterans.

Thanks to a sophomore season marred by injury, that hasn't been the case. He has just 24 receptions for 247 yards and a touchdown over two seasons, stats that evoke the word "bust" among Chargers faithful.

Javon Walker opens Raiders camp on PUP/injury.

The agent for four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Joe Horn has remained in contact with Ravens officials and is lobbying for the team to give Horn a tryout.

Willis Mcgahee is expected to be able to practice as soon as Friday. However, he did have a wrap around his knee at the team hotel later in the day.

Baltimore Ravens veteran tight end L.J. Smith was held out of practice Wednesday after suffering a minor hamstring injury during the first practice of camp.

Barring an unexpected obstacle, Leon Washington be in Jets camp on time, awaiting his big pay day. Two-a-days start Friday.

Washington's agent, Alvin Keels, had a face-to-face meeting yesterday with GM Mike Tannenbaum, hoping to hammer out a contract before camp starts at upstate SUNY-Cortland. Washington has been threatening to hold out, which would cost him about $17,000 in mandatory daily fines. The two sides have made enough progress in recent days that a long-term deal appears likely in the coming days, sources said Wednesday night.

Steelers signed TE Heath Miller to a new six-year, $35.3 million contract, including a $12.5m signing bonus.

The Patriots signed longsnapper Jake Ingram; released defensive back Jamar Love.

The Rams signed linebacker James Laurinaitis, defensive tackles Hollis Thomas, Darell Scott, and quarterback Keith Null; waived defensive lineman Kirston Pittman, defensive lineman Willie Williams, wide receiver Horace Gant and wide receiver Travis Brown.

The Seahawks signed defensive lineman Derek Walker; waived defensive lineman Brandon Miller.

Offseason negotiations on a contract extension for Pro Bowl wide receiver Roddy White have not gone well.
“We’ve had a series of discussions with Roddy’s representatives,” Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said. “Those discussions are ongoing right now. That’s all I care to say. Hopefully, we’ll come to an agreement some time in the future.”

The Falcons are set to open training camp Saturday.

White’s agent, Jonathan Feinsod, had “no comment” about White’s situation or the possibility of a holdout.

The Bills placed wide receiver P.k. Sam on the waived/injured list.

Ravens fans remain fixated on whether Derrick Mason is coming back.

On a different level, the same question could be asked of Todd Heap. As the veterans reported to Ravens training camp Wednesday, the former Pro Bowl tight end is looking to become a key weapon in Cam Cameron's offense, reversing a series of disappointments.

It started with training camp last season, when Heap missed most of the preseason with a calf injury. It continued throughout the regular season when a coaching decision turned the franchise's all-time leading receiver into more of a blocker. Then, it extended to this offseason when there was talk of the Ravens trading Heap or replacing him if Brandon Pettigrew fell to them in the draft.

Heap, 29, acknowledges it was a difficult year, but he wants to prove that it wasn't a deflating one.

"There's no doubt in my mind that I can be a top tight end," Heap said. "I have confidence in myself and my abilities."

Two NFL sources said the Baltimore Ravens may revisit the idea of trading for unhappy Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall(notes) if veteran Derrick Mason(notes) doesn’t return from his sudden retirement.

Vikings coach Brad Childress said today that he’s moving forward without Brett Favre and that he’s “more than content” with having Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels compete for the starting quarterback job.

Childress’ comments came one day after Favre told the Vikings that he wasn’t going to end his retirement to play for the team and on the same day players began to arrive in Mankato for the opening of training camp. Practices will begin on Friday morning.

Asked if there was still a chance that Favre could change his mind and wind up playing for the Vikings, Childress said: “You know what, there’s not a chance from my standpoint. I’m going forward with the guys that we have. We’ll have a great competition, we’ll have a great camp and be a good football team one way or the other. [That] is what I told Brett, [That] is what I told our team.”

Favre and his agent, Bus Cook, have made it clear that they are not shutting the door on Favre still making a return to the NFL.

Broncos coach Josh McDaniels today said quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Chris Simms are ahead of the game in terms of learning the Broncos' new offensive system.

"The information flow in the quarterback room is much quicker," the coach said. "Their recall is certainly very high right now, and they know what to do.

"There is nothing we're saying to them in the meeting room or on the field that's foreign to them. That's comforting, but it still means they have to go out and execute when there's a defense and a different look, disguising, and (running) everything and at full speed."

Two-time Pro Bowl defensive end Derrick Burgess and first-round pick Darrius Heyward-bey were no-shows as the Raiders opened training camp.

The team held meetings Wednesday, the day before hitting the practice field in Napa under coach Tom Cable. Burgess, who did not take part in any offseason practices, decided to stay away from the start of training camp as he looks to be dealt.

Heyward-Bey, the seventh overall pick in April's draft, has not signed a contract, although Cable expressed optimism that a deal could be done quickly. Heyward-Bey is in the Bay Area and could make it to Napa soon after a deal is signed.

Saints GM Mickey Loomis stood by his statement from last month that the team has "no plans to bring Michael Vick to the Saints."

Although some national media outlets haven't crossed New Orleans off the list of potential Vick suitors, we would comfortably urge them to do so.
"We have already commented on Vick and have nothing further to add," Loomis said Wednesday.

Broncos WR Brandon Marshall and LB D.J. Williams did not participate in training camp drills today. The disgruntled WR was absent for the second consecutive day and Williams, a co-captain last year, missed his second practice in three days.

Williams was ill Monday, but both veterans are complaining of soreness. They remained inside the club's complex during an hour-long practice with mostly rookies and quarterbacks.

Coach Josh McDaniels said it is his standard procedure to shield any injured player from the field, even though viewing his new systems might benefit injured onlookers.

It’s no secret that Cowboys coach Wade Phillips will have complete control of the defense this season.

What wasn’t known until Tuesday is that he also will apparently have a big say in the team’s offensive philosophy as it attempts to bounce back from last season’s disappointing 9-7, non-playoff season and snap a 12-year drought without a playoff win.

Speaking at the club’s state-of-the-franchise news conference at the Alamodome, Phillips made it clear he wants a dominant running game in place when the Cowboys open Sept. 13 at Tampa Bay.

“We’ve got to establish a stronger running game,” Phillips said.

How strong?

“We need to get in the top 10 (in the league),” Phillips said.

With that said, much of training camp will be devoted to finding a rotation that maximizes the talents of runners Marion Barber, Felix Jones and Tashard Choice, a chore that falls to OC Jason Garrett.

The first practice is set for 2:15 p.m. today at the dome.

Plaxico Burress stood outside a Manhattan court room shortly after more than two hours of testimony to a grand jury Wednesday, expressing remorse for his actions in a self-shooting last November.

"I was truthful, I was honest and I'm truly remorseful for what I've done, what happened and what I did," Burress said shortly after walking out of the courtroom at 12:43 p.m. Wednesday. "I just want to thank everybody -- family, friends and fans -- for their prayers and support."

The Lions have said more than once they're not inclined to gamble on a reclamation project like Michael Vick.
And prior to playing in Wednesday's pro-am event at the Buick Open at Warwick Hills, head coach Jim Schwartz said much the same thing when asked if the Lions would have any interest in signing Vick. The former Atlanta Falcons quarterback, who served 18 months in a federal penitentiary for running a dogfighting ring, was conditionally reinstated by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell earlier this week.
"Yeah, probably not," Schwartz said. "With what we've done at quarterback, we've invested a lot at the quarterback position, as you know. There's a first-round pick (Matthew Stafford), a second-round pick (Drew Stanton), we have (Daunte) Culpepper looking good and coming back. So I think, from that standpoint, we've invested a (lot) at that position."

The Ravens have officially placed Derrick Mason on the reserve-did not report list. That means Mason will not count against the team's 80-man roster limit.

The veteran wide receiver is still deciding whether he will stay retired or return to the Ravens. He was not expected to report to the team Wednesday.

If Mason decides to come back, the Ravens can activate him off the list. The team would then have to cut a player to make room for Mason on the roster.

Ravens tight end Davon Drew and defensive tackle Lamar Divens are off the PUP. Rookie linebacker Jason Phillips did some conditioning drills off on the side. It looks like Phillips could be coming off PUP shortly.

In another side note, the veterans are starting to report at the team hotel. Cornerback Domonique Foxworth and safety Haruki Nakamura have been spotted.

Willis Mcgahee didn't practice for a second straight day but the Ravens running back appears to be getting closer to coming off the physically-unable-to-perform list.

He ran off to the side, doing length-of-the-field sprints. McGahee did look tired but showed no signs of pain. My guess is that McGahee is suited up for the first full-team practice Friday.

Luke Mccown, Jermaine Phillips and Gaines Adams are three of the Buccaneers on the hot seat entering training camp.

Daunte Culpepper is currently the Detroit Lions' No. 1 QB and, at worst, he's expected to go into the season as the team's No. 2 (behind rookie first-round pick Matthew Stafford). However, the Lions have given themselves some wiggle room if they decide to go in another direction with Culpepper.

At the start of free agency in late February, Culpepper's contract called for him to make a roster bonus of $2.5 million at that time and then make an additional $2.5 million in salary during the season. Because the Lions didn't want to pay the bonus at the time, Culpepper agreed to restructure his deal.

The Lions restructured the deal that one way for one reason - to give them an "out'' if they didn't want Culpepper on the roster for the start of the regular season - and also to protect against a training camp injury.

Running back Cadillac Williams is expected to be among the 80 players cleared by the Bucs to begin training camp when the team reports Friday.

The much-scrutinized Demetrius Williams aced the first practice of the most important training camp of his NFL career Tuesday. Now he has to do it for 25 more days and 39 more practices to assure the Ravens that he is who they say he is.

If the 26-year-old wide receiver finally is going to escape the shadows and realize his raw potential, he needs to start here, in Westminster, where the need has never been greater, and now, his fourth season.

So far, flashes of brilliance have been tempered by durability issues and an almost-chronic ankle problem. But Williams envisions a breakthrough in a summer when the Ravens are contemplating life after Derrick Mason.

"I've got all that stuff behind me," Williams promised after the first workout for rookies and select veterans at McDaniel College. "Now I'm ready to go out and play."

Vikings quarterback Sage Rosenfels has a message for his coaches and teammates: Save the explanations.

Rosenfels said Tuesday that coach Brad Childress and his teammates don't have to say anything to him regarding Brett Favre.

"I don't think it's necessary because I understand the situation," said Rosenfels, who noted he hadn't talked to Childress as of early Tuesday evening. "I've been around the league long enough.

"I feel no animosity toward players or coaches."

After flying to the Twin Cities on Tuesday night, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe said the Favre story was "ancient history."

Asked if he's disappointed, Shiancoe said, "I don't got time to be disappointed.

"Sage and T-Jack are working, and it's a competition between them," he said. "It's too bad they were put in that position and had to wait that long."

"It's hard to admit I'm not 25 anymore,'' Brett Favre said late Tuesday night, when what he'd done began to sink in. He still sounded stunned that a few hours earlier he'd called Minnesota coach Brad Childress and shunned his dream job: quarterback on a team with a great defense and the best running back in football, with coaches who run a scheme he could operate falling out of bed.

"I passed up the greatest chance I could have had right now, and it hurts,'' Favre said. "By saying no, I know I'm leaving an incredible opportunity on the table, and that opportunity is not coming back.''

There's no sense in asking the question about whether this is it for Favre. He said he was finished 17 months ago in Green Bay, and he insisted he was finished five months ago after leaving the Jets. Even he knows his gut feeling can't be trusted right now.

"Very unlikely,'' he said. "I really believe this is it. I truly, truly believe it's over. But if someone calls Nov. 1, who knows?''

Backup quarterback Andrew Walter reported to camp, unsure of his status and taking a wait-and-see approach.
"I'm under contract, so 9 a.m. mandatory meeting (today)," Walter said. "I'll be there unless something changes."
Walter stayed away from all offseason workouts except the mandatory minicamp in May. He is in the final season of his contract but doesn't appear to be in the Raiders' long-term plans.
The Raiders signed veterans Garcia, Charlie Frye and Bruce Gradkowski in the offseason, and Walter didn't get any reps during full-team drills at the minicamp.

Veteran QB Jeff Garcia arrived at training camp early, unwilling to concede anything to projected starter Jamarcus Russell.
"My job is to make certain decisions hard," Garcia said Tuesday. "JaMarcus' job is to make the decision easy and to go out there and be the guy that this team has invested in to be, and that's to be a leader, a player that is accountable and that everybody looks toward to basically carry the team on his shoulders and lead this team to victory."
Players are required to report to camp today for a mandatory 9 a.m. meeting. Russell was not spotted during a three-hour period in which at least half the 80 players on the roster checked in.

During a closed-door meeting in owner Daniel Snyder's office in April, Washington Redskins QB Jason Campbell listened attentively as Snyder voiced concerns about Campbell's performance last season. Snyder told Campbell he wants him to become a franchise QB, Campbell recalled Monday, but he has not reached that level yet in Snyder's opinion.

Snyder called the meeting to clear the air about his efforts to replace Campbell, Washington's starter for the last 2 1/2 seasons, during the offseason and encourage Campbell to assume more leadership. Although Campbell didn't agree with everything he heard in the meeting that Vinny Cerrato, Washington's executive VP of football operations, and Coach Jim Zorn also attended, he left Snyder's office more determined to succeed.

As training camp opens Thursday, Campbell plans to shoulder more responsibility for how the Redskins perform in their 2nd season under Zorn, whose job security seems, at least in part, linked to the QB's performance. And after Snyder's recent pursuit of potential replacements for Campbell, this season could be his last with the Redskins unless he has a breakthrough year.

The Viking's top two draft picks -- first-round wide receiver Percy Harvin and second-round right tackle Phil Loadholt -- remained unsigned. However, there are indications that Loadholt could have a deal in place today and report on time.

Several television and print reports point out Jacksonville as a possible landing spot for former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, who recently received conditional reinstatement from the NFL.

So let's go ahead and slay this dragon right now for the message board folks and the dreamers - IT. AIN'T. HAPPENING.

In fact, Vick's name hasn't come up once during any of the club's personnel meetings, according to people inside the organization. Texting back and forth with Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio yesterday, I asked if the club would be interested in Vick. Del Rio replied, "No."

So there you have it. No Vick in The Jack this year.

Shortly after Brett Favre told the Vikings that he would remain retired late Tuesday afternoon, a few national reporters began to throw out the possibility that Michael Vick might be a good fit in Minnesota.

I’m sure part of the thinking was that if the Vikings were willing to wait this long on Favre, this team must be desperate at quarterback. However, don’t expect to see Vick in a Vikings uniform.

A person with knowledge of the situation confirmed the organization doesn’t have interest in Vick. The Vikings will move ahead with Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels battling for the starting job in training camp and with John david Booty behind those two.

Former Giants WR Plaxico Burress is testifying before the grand jury that's investigating a weapon charge against him.

Attorney Benjamin Brafman said Burress would testify Wednesday.

The 31-year-old Burress shot himself in the thigh at a Manhattan nightclub last November.

He was charged with weapon possession and faces up to 3 1/2 years in prison. He's pleaded not guilty and is free on $100,000 bail. The Giants released Burress in April.

The New York Post has reported that Manhattan District Attorney Robert Morgenthau is insisting on jail time for Burress. Brafman criticized Morgenthau, saying his comments could prejudice the grand jury.

The Bills signed wide receiver Shaine Smith.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh was vague when asked about the team's interest in Michael Vick, who was granted a conditional reinstatement by the NFL.

"We’ve had long discussions about Michael Vick and we have a feeling about how he would impact our team and not impact our team," Harbaugh said. "We have a course of action that you can ask Ozzie [Newsome, general manager] about."

Newsome told The Sun on Tuesday, "We have three quarterbacks that we like."

Would the Ravens perhaps look at Vick if he switched from quarterback to wide receiver?

Now that the news of Michael Vick's conditional reinstatement has had an hour to percolate, the speculation turns immediately to where he turns up next.
And while I've heard from a lot of fans who think he should be allowed to play somewhere, those who think he should play for their team are fewer. That's because he's a dubious player, and an unquestioned distraction.
For the record, you can cross the Panthers off the list. There are those here who influence football decisions who -- even when Vick was still playing well -- thought that he was one of the most talented running backs in the league.
That's an important distinction moving forward.

Despite strong support from receiver Terrell Owens and an open effort by cornerback Drayton Florence to get the team to sign the man who was reinstated by the league on Monday, the Buffalo Bills aren't interested in Mike Vick.

"We wouldn't have any interest at this time," G.M. Russ Brandon told the Buffalo News. "We're comfortable with our roster as it stands right now."

The Miami Dolphins say they won't pursue Michael Vick, even though he could be an ideal fit in their Wildcat offense.

With speculation building about where Vick might land now that he has been reinstated, Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland said his team won't court the quarterback.

"We don't have an interest," Ireland said in a statement Tuesday. "We like the players we have on our current roster."

The Dolphins, who hold their first training camp practice Sunday, are deep at quarterback.

Saying the Broncos are "content" with the 80 players on their current roster, coach Josh McDaniels said Tuesday the team would not be inclined to offer Michael Vick a chance to restart his NFL career.

"We have looked at every player that we feel out there could help us at this time and we're very happy with the 80 guys we have going to camp right now. . . . we're very content with the situation we have," McDaniels said.

In case you hadn’t heard, the St. Louis Rams are not — repeat, ARE NOT — pursuing the newly reinstated Michael Vick. Various team officials have continually denied rumors that the Rams are among the teams that might be interested in signing Vick.

“No, no, no. That’s been beat to death,” exasperated GM Billy Devaney reiterated Tuesday.

Receiver Braylon Edwards was a day late in reporting to Browns camp and then failed the team's physical exam, NFL sources confirmed Tuesday.

Because Edwards missed practice time at the team's mandatory minicamp in June with an undisclosed injury, he was notified by coach Eric Mangini to report to training camp on Monday -- four days earlier than non-injured veterans.

When Edwards did not show up, the Browns placed him on the "reserve / did not report" list. Edwards could be fined as much as $17,000 for reporting one day late.

After a day of speculation, emails, and phone calls, only the Ravens will admit to having legitimately discussed the conditionally reinstated Michael Vick. The Redskins and 49ers, both rumored to be interested, are publicly denying. Jacksonville, also rumored, is saying it hasn't even been discussed.

Ravens Coach John Harbaugh said on Tuesday, "We've had long discussions about Michael Vick and we have a feeling about how he would impact our team and not impact our team," said on Tuesday.

With Jets training camp set to open Friday morning (vets report Thursday), the Jets are trying to hammer out a contract extension for RB Leon Washington. Washington's Virginia-based agent, Alvin Keels, is coming up tomorrow to have a face-to-face with GM Mike Tannenbaum.

A lot of times, when an agent flies into town, it means they're ready to put the finishing touches on a deal. I wouldn't read that much into this situation. It also could mean this is a last-ditch effort by both sides to get something done before camp. Washington is threatening a camp holdout.

49ers coach Mike Singletary said WR Michael Crabtree is healthy and ready to hit the practice field after sitting out the offseason program with a stress fracture in his foot. All he needs is a signed contract.

"Oh, yeah," Singletary said. "He's ready to go."

Chiefs waived K Connor Barth.

Kenneth Darby is the favorite to backup Stephen Jackson in STL. Offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur made that clear Tuesday during comments to reporters in St. Louis:

"From what I've seen from Ken Darby he, right now, is that guy. He did an excellent job in the spring and he's got experience playing in this league. I think he'll be good for us."

Former Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson died today at age 68 after losing a battle with skin cancer.

The Lions worked out three veteran quarterbacks today - Cleo Lemon, Brooks Bollinger, and Craig Nalland it might not mean anything in the grand scheme of things. Culpepper has looked good in off-season workouts so far and, by all accounts, the organization has been happy with him. There's nothing to indicate that's going to change but, if it does, the Lions can make a move without taking a significant hit on Culpepper's contract.

At the start of free agency in late February, Culpepper's contract called for him to make a roster bonus of $2.5 million at that time and then make an additional $2.5 million in salary during the season. Because the Lions didn't want to pay the bonus at the time, Culpepper agreed to restructure his deal.

Under the restructuring, Culpepper earned a $1 million bonus for weighing less than 275 pounds when the team started its off-season workout program in the middle of March. Culpepper, who had weighed more than 290 pounds last season, reported at just over 260 pounds. Under the new contract, Culpepper also earned an additional $300,000 for participating in at least 80 percent of the off-season workouts. (Details of Culpepper's contract were obtained from a league source.)

Culpepper doesn't earn any more money until he makes the 53-man roster for the first game of the regular season. At that point, Culpepper would make $1.25 million in a roster bonus and then his 2009 salary of $2.5 million could kick in. (Culpepper can also earn an additional $500,000 in performance incentives.)

The Lions restructured the deal that one way for one reason - to give them an "out'' if they didn't want Culpepper on the roster for the start of the regular season - and also to protect against a training camp injury.

Cowboys released WR Travis Wilson.

Ravens signed WR Jayson Foster. This is likely a depth move for for training camp and should have no fantasy impact.

The Cleveland Browns placed wide receiver Braylon Edwards on the reserve/did not report list for not showing up to training camp yesterday as he was originally expected to, the National Football Post has just been informed.

Edwards did, however, report to training camp today.

Bills waived RB Justise Hairston.

Browns signed 2nd round pick WR Mohamed Massaquoi to a four year contract.

The lawyer for former Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress confirmed via e-mail that his client will testify before the grand jury on Wednesday morning. Burress is facing two counts of felony gun possession and his attorney, Ben Brafman, is clearly hoping Burress' testimony will result in the grand jury's deciding against indictment.

Brafman said Monday afternoon Manhattan district attorney Robert Morgenthau's comments to the New York Post in Monday's editions might have "compromised" the grand jury's objectivity and independence in this case.

Also, current Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce will reportedly soon be facing the same charge as Burress. Pierce's attorney, Michael Bachner, told the Post the DA's office has informed him they will pursue gun-possession charges against Pierce, who allegedly transported the gun from the Manhattan night club to Burress' Totowa home after the November incident.

The Bengals began training camp with Cedric Benson as the No. 1 running back and Kenny Watson No. 2.

PHI RB Brian Westbrook rehabbed off the field today.

Rookie RB Lesean Mccoy was the Eagles' first-team tailback at Tuesday's practice.

Vikings coach Brad Childress told the Star Tribune late this afternoon that quarterback Brett Favre informed the team he has decided to remain retired. Childress cited the daily grind both mentally and physically as part of the reason why Favre remained retired.

"I just think it was a rare opportunity to explore a Hall of Fame quarterback who had background in the NFC and in this division," Childress said. "He knows our system inside out ... This doesn't change anything about how I feel about our football team."

Shawne Merriman participated in Chargers individual drills and 7-on-7s but was held out of team drills – in part to keep him from coming back too fast and in part to prevent a rookie from accidentally rolling up on his braced knee.

“I'm over the top with my (stuff) right now, so I'm really trying to pace myself,” he said. “It's the hardest thing for me to not go full blast and get amped up and get hyped up.”

He hopes to be allowed to go in the first workout in pads Sunday but might not.

“They want to make sure I'm all the way good mechanically,” Merriman said. “They know my knee is 100 percent. They're watching me. They're trying to (contain) me. I'm glad they are, because if they didn't, I wouldn't.”

4for4 IDP Rankings

The Chiefs hired Todd Haley as their head coach in large part because of his offensive creativity. He designed the offense and called plays the last two years for the high-scoring Arizona Cardinals, attracting the attention of new Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli in the process.

Haley will set aside those abilities, at least to start the season. Haley reserved the right to take over later in the season but said Monday that offensive coordinator Chan Gailey would call the plays.

Ravens RB Willis Mcgahee will begin training camp on the active/PUP. This will likely only last a few days. He is currently behind Ray Rice on the depth chart.

Ravens WR Demetrius Williams and and DT Kelly Gregg are both practicing at what seems to be full strength after they both missed the majority of 2008 with injuries.

Ravens First-round draft pick Michael Oher is officially holding out.

The Broncos continue to negotiate with their two first-round draft picks — running back Knowshon Moreno of Georgia and defensive end-linebacker Robert Ayers of Tennessee — but have yet to close the deals.

Until RB Knowshon Moreno signs, second-year player Ryan Torain is taking all the handoffs. And he couldn't be happier about it.

Torain's rookie season was twice stalled by injuries — a broken elbow in training camp followed by a torn ACL in November that left him on injured reserve.

Monday marked his first full practice (he was limited in the final June minicamp) since the knee injury.

"For me, it's a reward to finally do a full practice and get a bunch of reps and play football again," Torain said. "I look at it as I'm catching up. I'm pretty excited about it."

Ray Anderson, the league’s executive vice president of football operations, tells NFL.com senior columnist Thomas George that Michael Vick could find himself suiting up in Week 1 of the regular season “if all goes well” and that commissioner Roger Goodell’s decision to conditionally reinstate the quarterback shouldn’t be viewed as a six-game suspension.

For the most part, chalk this next item up to coaches never wanting to admit a starter has a job wrapped up before camp. Still, it was a little surprising to hear Broncos coach Josh McDaniels endorse a competition at QB when asked if Chris Simms would have to play out of his mind to overtake Kyle Orton, who was named the starter in June.
“He doesn’t have to play out of his mind,” McDaniels said. “We’re going to evaluate the quarterbacks just like we do like every other position. If Chris is the most effective QB in our system by September, then he’ll start. It’s the same thing with the DLs, the LBs, the WRs, everybody. That’s how you have a competitive training camp. Chris came with a great attitude today, worked really well today in the drills we did with the QBs. I would expect that to be a competitive battle. It’s going to make Kyle a better football player, it’s going to make Chris a better football player and hopefully it’s going to make our team a better football team.”

Ravens sign WR Biren Ealy to replace Bennett on roster.

The Rams have reached contract agreements with defensive tackle Darell Scott, their fourth-round choice, and quarterback Keith Null, their sixth-rounder.

That would leave just first-round pick Jason Smith, a tackle from Baylor, and second-rounder James Laurinaitis, a linebacker from Ohio State, without deals.

“We’re making good progress” with the representatives for Smith and Laurinaitis, said Kevin Demoff, the Rams’ executive vice president of football operations. “We met again yesterday for a good amount of time. I think we’re getting closer. I still remain very optimistic” that both players will be signed and in camp on time.

With players scheduled to report to San Antonio in less than 24 hours, the Cowboys have reached agreements on four-year contracts with three more rookies - Texas Tech's Brandon Williams, safety Mike Hamlin and kicker David Buehler - leaving three more to sign before Wednesday's first practice.

Third-rounders Jason Williams and Robert Brewster as well as quarterback Stephen Mcgee have yet to agree to contracts.

Michael Vick is back in the NFL. Now all he needs is a team to play for.

Vick, free after serving 18 months in prison for running a dogfighting ring, was reinstated with conditions by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on Monday. He could participate in regular-season games as early as October.

Vick can immediately take part in preseason practices, workouts and meetings and can play in the final two preseason games -- if he can find a team that will sign him. A number of teams have already said they would not.

Once the season begins, Vick may participate in all team activities except games, and Goodell said he would consider Vick for full reinstatement by Week 6 (Oct. 18-19) at the latest.

According to ESPN's Sal Paolantonio, a source close to Vick expressed "shock" over the severity of Vick's punishment and said Vick will reapply for full reinstatement as early as Week 1.

The Redskins waived fullback Jonathan Evans.

The Ravens signed wide receiver Biren Ealy; waived tight end Quinn Sypniewski and guard Brian Johnson.

Disgruntled Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall reported to team headquarters today along with the rest of Denver's injured players, rookies and quarterbacks for the unofficial start of training camp.

He is expected to address the media this afternoon.

Broncos 1rst-round draft picks Knowshon Moreno and Robert Ayers have not signed their contracts and have not reported to Dove Valley.

Receiver Steve Johnson, who looked very good the first two days of training camp, was on the sidelines watching today. It sounds like he will be out the rest of the week.

"It's not a broken rib. I think i'ts a cartilage injury between the ribs," coach Dick Jauron said. "And it may keep him out for a little while. It's very, very sore, very tender."

The Patriots signed safety Patrick Chung; released safety Antwain Spann.

The Rams signed running back Chris Ogbonnaya.

Michael Vick reinstated on conditional basis. He can practice and play in final two preseason games.

Roger Goodell notified Vick today he was being reinstated on conditional basis and will be considered to be fully reinstated by week 6.

Tony Dungy also has agreed to continue his work with Vick as an advisor and mentor.

Browns receiver Josh Cribbs plans to report to training camp on time Friday, but is adamant he won't play a regular season game without a new contract or significant progress towards one, a source close to the situation said Monday. Cribbs' agent, J.R. Rickert, will come to Cleveland this week, most likely on Thursday, to try to get things moving, the source said.
Cribbs hopes that by showing up for training camp, which opens to the public with two practices on Saturday, the team will realize how committed he is and show a willingness to negotiate.

Brady Quinn appears to have the leg up over Derek Anderson in the battle to be starting quarterback of the Browns this season, but, as NFL.com’s Pat Kirwan notes, “new coach Eric Mangini did not draft Quinn, and could allow this competition to go back and forth throughout training camp.”

Eagles HC Andy Reid took it easy on the Birds on day one of camp. He held a "swift" 75-minute morning practice.
Donovan Mcnabb was getting most of the reps early on the first day, reported KYW 1060.
D-Mac made sure to have some fun also. He admittedly watched the new Terrell Owens reality show and T.O.'s former QB had some advice on improvements -- "by not having it," McNabb told reporters.
McNabb was getting some early work in to become familiar with new targets but an old target's presence was gaining some press.
Todd Pinkston returned to Lehigh this season to impart some knowledge on Eagles wideouts and maybe learn something himself, reported the Morning Call's Eagles Insider.
McNabb’s former WR was back with the team as a coaching intern for wide receivers coach and long-time friend Dave Culley. Let’s just hope that while imparting some knowledge that Pinkston doesn’t teach anyone about alligator arms.

The Broncos signed defensive backs Darcel McBath and David Bruton and quarterback Tom Brandstater.

As players and coaches descended to Westminster, Md., for the start of Ravens training camp, the team waived tight end Quinn Sypniewski.

The former fifth-round draft pick out of the University of Colorado was coming off a year spent entirely on Injured Reserve, and an offseason setback to the recovery of his surgically-repaired knee didn’t help matters.

Sypniewski, 6-foot-6, 270 pounds, was highly valued because of his blocking skills. As a rookie in 2006, he played in all 16 of the Ravens’ games, followed by a 15-game showing the following year.

As players and coaches descended to Westminster, Md., for the start of Ravens training camp, the team waived tight end Quinn Sypniewski.

The former fifth-round draft pick out of the University of Colorado was coming off a year spent entirely on Injured Reserve, and an offseason setback to the recovery of his surgically-repaired knee didn’t help matters.

Sypniewski, 6-foot-6, 270 pounds, was highly valued because of his blocking skills. As a rookie in 2006, he played in all 16 of the Ravens’ games, followed by a 15-game showing the following year.

Bucs QB:

Get ready for endless debate about this position. It's wide open, even though the conventional wisdom is the job is Luke Mccown's to lose. Even so, McCown's grip on it isn't secure given that the Bucs have options. Whether those options — veteran Byron Leftwich and rookie Josh Freeman — are better can be argued. Coaches will be fair about the opportunities afforded each player during training camp and preseason games, the idea being that they'll get a wealth of information upon which to base a decision. But it's possible there won't be a consensus starter if no one is clearly superior.

Bucs PK:


The Bucs have gotten plenty of miles (and points) out of Matt Bryant. The 34-year-old has an average 83.1 percent success rate on field goals the past four seasons. But the one thing coach Raheem Morris and GM Mark Dominik have vowed to do is increase the level of competition among all players. That means no job is safe, even for a player who owns a franchise record 62-yard field goal.

To that end, Mike Nugent, 27, was signed during the offseason and will be given every opportunity to win the job.

Bucs WR:

Bucs Veteran Michael Clayton returns with a new contract and, with a new offense coming, a new lease on life after falling short the past four seasons of the promise he showed in his 2004 rookie year. He is expected to play a more noticeable role if new offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski makes good on his promise to spread the ball around more.

But depth remains an issue. Who will be the third receiver, assuming Clayton is the starter opposite Bryant? Just two other receivers have started a game (Maurice Stovall and Kelly Campbell, whose last start came in 2004). Rookie seventh-round draft pick Sammie Stroughter is an intriguing prospect who surprised coaches in summer workouts. He will vie for his share of playing time, too, along with former Chamberlain High standout Brian Clark, who got extensive playing time in big games last season.

Bucs RB:

This isn't as much a battle as a friendly competition. That's because Earnest Graham and Derrick Ward both will play plenty. The Bucs will look a lot like some other teams have in recent years in using a platoon system for perhaps the most punishing position. Ward formed a formidable tandem with Brandon Jacobs with his former team, the Giants. And the approach worked well in Carolina for Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, who combined for more than 2,300 yards last season. But in Tampa, how Graham and Ward are used, and who starts, hasn't been decided. Also a factor is how and when to use Clifton Smith, who offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski said will be included in game plans after being used almost exclusively on special teams last season.

The Leon Washington negotiations are heating up. It seems that both sides want to get a deal by Friday, an encouraging sign. From what I hear, the ball is in the Jets' court. They're preparing a counter proposal for Washington, who is believed to be seeking $6 million per year. I'll stick with the same prediction I made in May: IF this gets done, it'll be $4.5 mil per year, with $15 million guaranteed.
Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/jets/2009/07/leon-talks-heating-up.html...

Broncos rookies and quarterbacks and injured players are scheduled to report this Monday morning at Dove Valley.

Fox31’s Josina Anderson has learned from an inside source that wide receiver Brandon Marshall has been spotted on the premises, and his agent is in town.

At this hour this same inside source has yet to observe the arrival of running back Knowshon Moreno, and defensive end/outside linebacker Robert Ayers.

This observation does not solidify to a certainty that Ayers nor Moreno won’t show today at all, or eventually.

The news all Eagles fans care most about was covered quite thoroughly Sunday by head coach Andy Reid in his first news conference of training camp.

He expects running back Brian Westbrook to be ready to practice again by mid-August.

That's encouraging news for the powers that be, but not the best for fans who would like to catch a glimpse or two of the dynamic star before the Eagles leave Lehigh University on Aug. 12 and depart for the private confines of their NovaCare Complex headquarters to finish training camp.

Westbrook, who will turn 30 in September, is coming off a pair of offseason surgeries -- first on his left knee and then to remove bone spurs from his right ankle. His production slipped dramatically last year after a spectacular season in 2007, when he established career highs in rushing yards (1,333), receptions (90) and receiving yards (771).

"I think he has a chance to be back by mid-August and then we'll just take it from there," Reid said. "You never know on these things.

"Everybody heals a little bit different. Some people heal faster than other people. We'll just see how it works out."

In a recent radio interview, Lions head coach Jim Schwartz was asked about the possibility of rookie Matthew Stafford opening the regular season as the team's starting QB.

Schwartz repeatedly stressed the point that fans should not get too far ahead of themselves.

He said Stafford has a lot to learn, he is only a rookie.

The reality is, Stafford, the first overall pick in the 2009 National Football League draft, is on the fast track to become the Lions' starting QB this season.

So far, Stafford has passed every test with flying colours.

That is why Schwartz warns of caution.

It is still seven weeks away from the opener and anything can happen.

Who is more likely to make an impact this year, WR Devin Thomas or WR Malcolm Kelly? The Redskins want both 2008 second-round picks to raise their level of play, but Thomas is more likely to seize the No. 2 spot from Antwaan Randle el because Kelly's knee is always going to be an issue. Training camp is the time Thomas can show Jim Zorn he's worthy of more than the 20 snaps a game he got last year.

Question: Do you think 49ers WR Michael Crabtree is going to hold out or you think he'll sign before the start of training camp?

Answer: There is still a week before the practices begin, so it's difficult to predict. Up until now, I thought the sides would be able to hammer out a contract to get Crabtree into training camp without too much difficulty.

However, there are indications that it will be a challenge for the 49ers to get Crabtree signed before the start of training camp. Again, there is still a lot of time to get something accomplished - and only two first-round picks have signed deals -- but the 49ers and Crabtree are currently far apart in their negotiations.

If history tells us anything it's that Crabtree's agent, Eugene Parker, does not mind engaging in holdout tactics. (Technically, an unsigned rookie is not a "holdout" because no contract has been agreed upon. I'll try my best to refrain from calling it a holdout. Rather, it's a contract stalemate.)

Eagle's WR Kevin Curtis stood out at Monday's practice as one of the few accomplished veterans to be here. He actually asked the coaches to take part in these first 3 days of practice to work out any soreness in the groin injury that hampered him last year and then caused him to have a second surgery in the spring.

"I felt good today," said Curtis. "You can't really duplicate practice. I've been out running hard and cutting on it and having really good workouts at home leading up to this. So far, so good. I didn't do a whole lot and it's going to get a lot more intense as we go, but after one practice down, it's feeling pretty good.

"I'm looking forward to that day (when I don't have to think about the injury). Hopefully, that day comes pretty soon."

"I asked them if I could come here early, actually. They didn't want me here. I begged them so they let me come," said Curtis, who led the Eagles with 77 catches in 2007. He arrived with a buzz cut at training camp. "I wanted to see where the groin is at now, rather than wait until Day 1 when everyone is here and we're live. I'd rather have a few days to ease my way back into it, so I'm glad I'm here."

The Broncos and Knowshon Moreno were so far away from an agreement Sunday afternoon, one NFL source said there was "no way" the rookie RB from Georgia would show up today for the unofficial start of training camp.

The Broncos made Moreno the first running back taken in the 2009 NFL draft when they selected him with the No. 12 overall choice. He is expected to eventually receive a five- or six-year deal with a guarantee of more than $12 million, so negotiations are not without complications.

As of Sunday night, only four of 32 first-round picks had reached agreements.

It's gonna be Sing Sing for Plaxico -- even if he cops to a lesser gun charge, says Manhattan District Attorney Robert Morgenthau.

Negotiations in the gun-possession case against ex- Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress -- who accidentally shot himself in the leg at a Midtown nightclub last November -- fell apart earlier this year after prosecutors insisted he do two years' state time on a plea to a lesser gun charge, the DA told The Post.

The Super Bowl XLII star was willing to bite the bullet and do jail time, but he wouldn't agree to more than a year, the DA said.

Morgenthau said his office would announce the grand jury's vote within four weeks.

Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce is still on the hook for allegedly possessing his then-teammate's gun after the shooting -- and could face a jail term of his own.

WR Drew Bennett Retires.

Bennett worked out for Ravens brass on Friday, separating himself enough from the three other candidates that he was offered a one-year contract.

But the free-agent wideout, who missed nearly all of the 2008 campaign with a broken foot, cited a knee injury as the reason for his retirement.

"After returning home from Baltimore this weekend, a previous knee injury flared up, making me realizing that I am unable to play another NFL season," Bennett said in a statement from his agent.

WR Drew Bennett has retired and will not be playing for the Ravens this year.

First-round pick Jeremy Maclin has yet to sign, and was not at the first day of Eagles training camp Sunday.

Adam Caplan tweets: Brian Westbrook has a chance to be back on the practice field by mid-August according to Andy Reid.

Todd Pinkston and Brandon Whiting are going to be on the Eagles' sidelines as coaching interns.

When asked what he saw from RB Ladainian Tomlinson this offseason, and what he expects out of him in 09, coach Norv Turner responded:

"No. 1, he's really focused and determined. I think his mindset is that he's excited to have a great year. I didn't see any physical limitations at all from his injuries. I liked what I saw in terms of the explosiveness."

"I would expect LT to be among the top three or four rushers in the league. And depending how our season goes and the games go, he'll be a factor in the rushing title."

When asked about RB Darren Sproles' role in the upcoming season, coach Norv Turner responded: "Darren is going to complement [LT]. But Darren's starting point is in the return game and we'll pick our spots with him on offense."

The Browns signed lineback David Veikune; waived wide receiver Devale Ellis.

There's no clear-cut starter alongside Jets WR Jerricho Cotchery, with Chansi Stuckey and Brad Smith the only players with legitimate NFL experience.

Stuckey, who played mostly as a third-down slot wide receiver last season, appears to be the most likely second starter with the versatile Smith the No. 3. Wallace Wright, who has been a special teams player, had a strong minicamp. David Clowney is the fastest

player in the group, but he has been inconsistent catching the ball.

Justise Hairston, a first-year running back out of Central Connecticut, could miss the rest of the season with a knee injury Buffalo Bills coach Dick Jauron said on Sunday.
Hairston was injured during no-contact conditioning drills during the morning session of Saturday’s practice. The injury was initially believed to be minor although Hairston did not return for the afternoon session.
“That was so disappointing for the young man in literally a walk through and it was so freakish," Jauron said. “It involved no contact at all. It’s a knee injury and we think it may be season ending. It’s very, very disappointing for us and extremely disappointing for the young man.’’
Also, defensive tackle Marcus Stroud injured his hamstring and Jauron said he could miss the next 5-7 days of practice.

Money is the driving force in professional sports, and it still appears that the structuring of a contract for Brett Favre could be the holdup of the future hall of fame quarterback signing with the Vikings.

With training camp to open in Mankato this week, it's hard to figure what else could be the real reason for Favre's delay in signing.

Chargers agreed to terms with fourth-round RB Gartrell Johnson on a four-year contract.

Disgruntled Pro Bowl special teamer Joshua Cribbs intends to report on time to Browns training camp Friday.

Bills placed WRs James Hardy and C.J. Hawthorne on active/PUP.

The Jaguars have penciled in 5-foot-8 rookie Mike Thomas as the slot WR.

The NFL reportedly has informed the 32 teams that consultants have no limitations on their game-day activities.

This means that former Colts offensive line coach Howard Mudd and former Colts offensive coordinator Tom Moore will be able to do anything and everything on game day.

That's great news for the Colts and Peyton Manning, who already are dealing with extensive turnover at various other coaching positions, including head coach, defensive coordinator, and special-teams coordinator.

There are indications that it will be a challenge for the 49ers to get Michael Crabtree signed before the start of training camp. Again, there is still a lot of time to get something accomplished - and only two first-round picks have signed deals -- but the 49ers and Crabtree are currently far apart in their negotiations.

If history tells us anything it's that Crabtree's agent, Eugene Parker, does not mind engaging in holdout tactics. (Technically, an unsigned rookie is not a "holdout" because no contract has been agreed upon. I'll try my best to refrain from calling it a holdout. Rather, it's a contract stalemate.) At least four of Parker's clients had contract issues last season.

Bills backup RB Justise Hairston suffered an apparent injury during practice and went to the locker room.

After weeks of rumors that former NFL quarterback Tim Rattay will be playing in the UFL, Las Vegas coach Jim Fassel tells our pal Todd Wright of Sporting News Radio that Rattay will be playing for the Vegas team, as the understudy to J.p. Losman.

Texans RB Vonta Leach was arrested this week and charged with simple assault. The alleged incident occurred in a downtown Lumberton restaurant last month.

The charge is a misdemeanor. Leach was taken to the Robeson County jail and released on a written promise. He is scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 18.

Cowboys agreed to terms with sixth-round TE John Phillips on a four-year contract.

Bills agreed to terms with fourth-round TE Shawn Nelson on a four-year contract.

Cowboys agreed to terms with seventh-round WR Manuel Johnson on a four-year contract.

49ers signed fifth-round QB Nate Davis to a four-year contract.

Texans agreed to terms with fifth-round TE James Casey on a four-year contract.

Brett Favre still isn't ready to decide on playing for the Minnesota Vikings, ESPN reported today, citing the quarterback's agent.

ESPN's Rachel Nichols reported that she had spoken to agent Bus Cook, after Cook had spoken at length to Favre this morning, and Cook said a decision might come at the beginning or middle of next week.

"He (Favre) just doesn't feel ready yet," Nichols reported, recounting her conversation with Cook. "There are some things he's still considering."

Last week, Favre told the Associated Press that he would decide by July 30, the deadline for Vikings players to report to training camp.

Nichols reported that Favre's friends and family had hoped he would decide today. But that doesn't seem to be the case.

The Eagles named Sean Mcdermott defensive coordinator.

The Patriots signed quarterback Julian Edelman.

The Jaguars signed running back Rashad Jennings.

Cardnials TE Stephen Spach, who played well late in the year, is coming off an ACL injury. He's running pass patterns now, but he's questionable for the start of the season.

Cardinals coaches have been pleased with the progress of Dominique Byrd, who was out of football last year.

Seattle signed WR Deon Butler, it's third-round draft pick, to a contract. The team did not announce terms, but it is a four-year deal. There was no word on the contract total or the signing bonus.

WR Drew Bennett, who worked out earlier today for the Ravens, passed his physical and has agreed to a one-year contract with the team, GM/executive vice president Ozzie Newsome announced.

Bennett's signing is insurance for the Ravens in case Derrick Mason does stay retired.

As TE Bo Scaife heads into the 2009 season, of course he wants to have another big year catching the football, but a big point of emphasis will be blocking.

"I'm not a bad blocker by any means, but I want to be a good blocker, a real good one,'' Scaife said. "I don't want to ever be substituted for because I'd be a weakness for the offense. That's how I look at it. I want to be dependable in every area.''

Scaife caught 58 passes for 561 yards and 2 TDs last season. In 4 seasons he's racked up 1,625 receiving yards on 170 catches as a favorite target for QBs Kerry Collins and Vince Young. He'd like to make RBs Chris Johnson and Lendale White just as happy.

TEs coach John Zernhelt pointed out that the 6-foot-3, 249-pound Scaife doesn't have the bulk of the 2 other primary tight ends on the roster — Alge Crumpler (6-2, 262) and Craig Stevens (6-3, 255) — but makes up for it with quickness and good technique at the line of scrimmage.

A week before the first full-team practice at Ravens training camp, the team's wide receiver position remains up in the air.

The Ravens still don't know whether Derrick Mason will rescind his decision to retire or whether any of the receivers trying out today will pan out (though Drew Bennett is the early favorite, according to a team source).

Perhaps the best-case scenario is adding a veteran before training camp and welcoming back Mason during the first couple of weeks, a combination that would patch up a questionable group at wide receiver for second-year quarterback Joe Flacco.

Coach John Harbaugh said Thursday that he's hopeful Mason will return but that he couldn't predict what the team's No. 1 receiver will do.

Antoine Winfield has signed a contract extension with the Vikings. Judd is on the phone with Winfield as I type. He signed a five-year extension (they basically ripped up his final season).

Here’s the contract details from Judd: It’s a five-year contract worth $36 million, including $16.1 in guarantees and a few likely to be earned incentives that will push up the value the first few seasons. He is scheduled to make $6.1 million this season but with likely incentives he should make around $7.5 million.

A source said that Brett Favre is beginning to feel a sense of obligation, not only to Vikings players but to a coaching staff that has been recruiting him since the moment the Jets released him in April. According to sources, Favre has been communicating regularly with Vikings HC Brad Childress and OC Darrell Bevell, who was Favre's OC in Green Bay for3 seasons.

While it has seemingly been an effective strategy, using other players to recruit Favre -- if Vikings coaches are actively involved -- is not without some risk. If Favre opts not to play, incumbent quarterbacks Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels might feel a sense of betrayal.

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Money is not an issue, as a source says that Favre and the Vikings have negotiated a one-year contract worth approximately $10 million. But the quarterback has not decided whether to sign it.

What seems unresolved in Favre's mind is whether, at age 39, he can reasonably expect to be healthy enough to play 16-plus games for the Vikings while maintaining the standard of performance he expects of himself.

Raiders projected tight end starter: Zach Miller.

If not for Miller, the Raiders' passing offense would have returned to 2006 levels of futility. He's not a premier tight end yet, but figures to become the next AFC West great. He spends too much time in pass protection for his body's good, though.

Raiders projected WR starters: Chaz Schilens and Javon Walker.

Schilens struggled with health issues as a rookie but finished better than he started. Still, 15 catches isn't much for someone who started more than half the season. He will get every chance to establish himself as the go-to wide receiver in this offense.

Walker took a massive paycut to stick around after being a massive free-agent bust. He's the only veteran receiver on this team and, as such, is the only player who's ever gotten it done in the NFL.

He must prove his aged body can hold up, which is no easy task. He must also prove he is mentally checked in, which again is no easy task. Walker will be rotated in and out, so this second starter's position should be considered fluid.

The Cardinals have long searched for an elite RB. They tried via free agency, signing two potential Hall of Famers in Emmitt Smith and Edgerrin James, in the last six years. They tried drafting one in the top 10 (Garrison Hearst, Thomas Jones), and they've given unknowns a chance (Tim Hightower, Marcel Shipp).

Hightower enters training camp as the starter but will have to hold off rookie Beanie Wells to hang on to the job. Hightower emerged from his rookie season as a bit of an enigma. He was very productive in goal-line and short-yardage situations. And he made two impressive plays in the game-winning drive in the NFC title game.

But Hightower didn't produce after becoming the the starter in the eighth game. It wasn't all his fault, of course, as the whole team fell into a malaise, but coaches were hoping for more. There were too many negative runs, and Hightower didn't give the club the big-play ability coaches had hoped.

Still, he has a great upside. He has good quickness and speed. He's physical, bright and has a desire to be good. But he needs to prove he's more than a situational back.

For some it’s the biggest question on any list concerning the Bills and their fortunes in 2009. In a QB driven league it’s no surprise that most feel the play of Trent Edwards will largely determine just how successful Buffalo can be this season. Now entering year three, Edwards is expected to be more consistent, more effective and ultimately more productive when it comes to scoring.

The coaching staff expects it, which is why they’ve put a lot more responsibility on Edwards’ shoulders entering the ’09 campaign. He will have full control of changing plays at the line of scrimmage and at times will have to execute those pre-snap decisions in hurry up mode when the offense goes no huddle.

“He’s got more on his plate, absolutely,” said head coach Dick Jauron.

With the no huddle approach expected to be a greater part of Buffalo’s attack this season, Edwards does admit it will be challenging to get everyone organized while deciphering defensive looks and deciding whether an audible is necessary in an up tempo mode.

Police still don't know who shot and critically wounded Dwight Dixon in Fairmount on Tuesday, but Dixon apparently had one person in mind.

Moments after a gunman riddled Dixon with seven bullets, the bloodied 33-year-old told a police officer he believed the gunman had been hired by NFL star Marvin Harrison, said a law-enforcement source close to the investigation.

Harrison isn't a suspect in the shooting, and investigators have not found evidence to link him to the incident, the source noted.

Police "won't know what made him say that until he wakes up," the source said.

Dixon - who last year claimed that he had been shot by Harrison following a fistfight in North Philadelphia - has been heavily sedated since Tuesday, when doctors at Hahnemann University Hospital spent 10 hours operating on him.

NFL Spokesman Greg Aiello on Twitter: Despite what ESPN says, commish has made no decisions on Michael Vick.

Seahawks signed Kevin Houser, longsnapper.

League sources told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio and Chris Mortensen Thursday that sometime next week Goodell is expected to announce a conditional reinstatement of Michael Vick, which would allow Vick to go to training camp if he signed with a team but that could also include a four-game suspension.

Saints released FB Darian Barnes.

Ross Tucker (SI.com) on Twitter: My co-host Jim Miller just said that his sources with the Vikings tell him that John david Booty is beating out Sage Rosenfels

With Minnesota Vikings players scheduled to report to training camp in less than a week, Brett Favre remains anguished about whether he should come out of retirement and join the team. That decision, according to sources, has become more difficult in recent days because of the efforts of Vikings players including Adrian Peterson, Jared Allen and Steve Hutchinson, all of whom have now begun calling and texting Favre in an attempt to convince him to become Minnesota's starting quarterback.

"If it weren't for the involvement of the Vikings players directly telling Brett they want him on their team, I think he might have already decided against playing again,'' a source said.

A source said that Favre is beginning to feel a sense of obligation, not only to Vikings players but to a coaching staff that has been recruiting him since the moment the New York Jets released him in April. According to sources, Favre has been communicating regularly with Vikings head coach Brad Childress and offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell, who was Favre's offensive coordinator in Green Bay for three seasons.

Money is not an issue, as a source says that Favre and the Vikings have negotiated a one-year contract worth approximately $10 million. But the quarterback has not decided whether to sign it.

What seems unresolved in Favre's mind is whether, at age 39, he can reasonably expect to be healthy enough to play 16-plus games for the Vikings while maintaining the standard of performance he expects of himself.

Maurice Jones-Drew has revealed today via Twitter that he has bulked up to 210 pounds.

Chiefs signed 7th round RB Javarris Williams to a multi-year deal.

Saying that the sexual assault allegations against him are "reckless and false," a forceful Ben Roethlisberger vowed to fight to protect his family and his reputation Thursday.

"I did not sexually assault Andrea McNulty," Roethlisberger said. The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback said that Saturday was the first he learned of the allegations, detailed in a civil suit filed by McNulty.

Roethlisberger said he would "respond to her outrageous allegations in the appropriate forum."

Teams in contact with FA Joe Horn include Baltimore, Tennessee, and Tampa Bay, according to his agent, Ralph Vitolo.

Derrick Mason spoke on the phone with coach John Harbaugh yesterday, but that was not the end of the communication, according to a source. The sides remain scheduled to meet face-to-face later this week, and many people in the organization have the feeling Mason will end up playing football this season.

One veteran NFL personnel man, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said Ronald Curry — who turned 30 on May 28 — has lost a step, but is still more than simply a possession receiver. A record-setting college quarterback for the Tar Heels, Curry was converted to wide receiver by the Raiders.

Rams waived WR Chad Lucas.

The Cardinals are at least several weeks away from having substantive talks with the agent for receiver Anquan Boldin about a contract extension, General Manager Rod Graves said.

The NFL could discipline Brandon Marshall a second time essentially for the same alleged incident, depending on how a six-person jury rules in his trial next month in Atlanta.

Marshall, the Broncos' leading receiver the past two seasons with a total of 206 catches, is scheduled for trial Aug. 13 on a misdemeanor battery charge in the Georgia State Court of Fulton County in Atlanta. Judge John Mather will preside over the trial, which is expected to have a judgment from the jury on the same day.

Multiple team sources have indicated that Sean Mcdermott will remain the Eagles' defensive coordinator during training camp at Lehigh University while Jim Johnson continues his battle against melanoma, which was discovered during the team's playoff run in January.

It is looking more and more likely that McDermott will coach the defense throughout the 2009 season.

Broncos signed rookie TE Richard Quinn to a four-year contract.

With Brian Westbrook recovering from ankle surgery and a lot of inexperience behind the star running back, some might wonder if the Eagles should sign one of the veteran running backs still standing in the unemployment line.

The Eagles say no.

"We're a little inexperienced, but at this point at running back we think we have some real quality people there," Eagles president Joe Banner said Wednesday. "We expect that we're going to go into camp and the guys we have are going to put us in a good position to be successful. Running back is one of those positions where younger players can step in and have success."

"We're very optimistic about Westbrook," Banner said. "He's doing great. He's ahead of schedule, but we're still going to be very conservative with him."

The Jaguars reached a tentative agreement today with seventh-round draft pick Rashad Jennings on a four-year contract, according to a source requesting anonymity because the deal isn't official, leaving the club with five players left to sign of its nine draft picks.

The Broncos on Wednesday reached an agreement with fifth-round draft pick Kenny Mckinley on a four-year deal.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh is "optimistic and hopeful" that wide receiver Derrick Mason will come out of retirement and rejoin the team during training camp.

The Bills signed defensive back Nic Harris.

The Rams signed wide receiver Brooks Foster.

The Falcons announced the retirement of offensive lineman Jeremy Newberry.

Jets coach Rex HC Ryan fully expects that disgruntled running backs Leon Washington and Thomas Jones will be in camp when the veterans report next week.

Jets coach Rex Ryan admitted that he won't hesitate to make rookie Mark Sanchez the Opening Day starter if warranted. Then again, he won't hesitate to start Kellen Clemens either. Translation: The 2009 Jets will be a meritocracy.

"I got to do what's best for this football team," Ryan said. "That's the easy thing. I feel confident that the guy that wins that job -- and comes out of there and is our Opening Day starter -- he'll have earned it. It won't be just because he's had experience or just because he was a first-round pick. The guy's going to have to earn the job. Competition brings out the best in everybody. You're going to get the best that Kellen Clemens has. You're going to get the best that Mark Sanchez has. And that's a good thing."

Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome has spoken to the agent for wide receiver Joe Horn and told him that the team would contact him after Friday's tryouts.

Horn, 37, is a four-time Pro Bowl receiver who averaged 87.4 catches from 2000 to 2004. He made 27 receptions for 243 yards and one touchdown in 12 games in 2007 before sitting out 2008.

The Ravens have a connection with Horn. Quarterbacks coach Hue Jackson was the Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator in 2007, when Horn was a receiver there.

"The Ravens are one of the teams that would definitely interest Joe," said Ralph Vitolo, Horn's agent.

The Ravens are conducting tryouts on Friday with four wide receivers, a group that includes Drew Bennett and D.j. Hackett.

While Bo Scaife prepares to spend this fall with the Titans as their franchise player, the tight end's new agent is preparing to negotiate a long-term deal after 2009 season. Scaife recently switched to Drew Rosenhaus, who has a history of negotiating big contracts for his clients. Scaife's one-year tender will pay him $4.46 million in 2009 — the average salary of the five highest-paid tight ends in the NFL. After the season, Rosenhaus said aims to work a deal that keeps Scaife in Nashville.

Law enforcement officials in Nevada have no intention of opening a criminal investigation into allegations Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger(notes) raped a woman at a Lake Tahoe hotel-casino a year ago, the sheriff’s department said Wednesday.

Douglas County Sheriff’s Deputy Teresa Duffy said the accuser would have to file a criminal complaint to trigger an investigation into the incident the woman says occurred during a celebrity golf tournament last July while she was working as an executive casino host at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe.

Ravens RB Willis Mcgahee today said he is 100% healthy and will report to camp Monday in shape. McGahee also intimated that he might start camp as a backup, saying it's not how you start but how you finish.

The Rams have added some much-needed experience _ and size _ to their wide receiver corps. League sources told the Post-Dispatch on Wednesday that the team has acquired WR Ronald Curry from the Detroit Lions in a trade for defensive tackle Orien Harris.

Dolphins TE starter: Anthony Fasano, who contributed 7 TDs in 2008, is entering his second season as a starter, and could be on the verge of a breakout year considering this is a contract year for the former Notre Dame standout. It doesn't hurt that rookies were added to both units, and QB Chad Pennington will be more familiar with the offense, and his player's strengths and weaknesses.

Dolphins Ernest Wilford, who was moved from receiver to tight end this offseason, showed some signs of life at his new position. If he can block Wilford will likely push Haynos for the third tight end spot.

Dolphins WR Anthony Armstrong was the talk of the offseason program because of his drastic improvement.

Will Redskins steps to keep RB Clinton Portis fresh for December be adopted? This should be Zorn's biggest adjustment. Ladell Betts had only one double-digit carry game last year, and Portis posted at least 21 rushes in the first nine games. Eventually he wore down. Putting Betts on the field for selected third downs and giving him a series or two each half may mean more late-season production from Portis, who failed to reach more than 80 yards in the last five games.

Forced to choose between being an NFL backup or a starter in a fledgling league, J.p. Losman has taken playing time.

Losman, 28, said Tuesday night he has signed with the Las Vegas entry of the start-up United Football League, where he will be coached by former Giants boss Jim Fassel. He immediately becomes the league's marquee player, a former first round pick who was Buffalo's starting quarterback 33 times over the past four seasons.

Beat writer Jerry McDonald projects Darren Mcfadden to pass Justin Fargas as the Raiders' starting tailback by Week 1.
McFadden was "more often than not" Oakland's first-team back all spring. This could position D-Mac for 225-275 touches after he saw only 142 as an injury-plagued rookie. It would also give Michael Bush a better shot to secure the No. 2 spot on the depth chart because Fargas is clearly a weaker talent. McDonald says McFadden "ideally" will get 225 carries and 50+ catches.

Amid allegations of sexual assault, Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger canceled a Thursday press conference that was associated with a reality television show he was scheduled to appear on, a team spokesman said.

Steelers communications coordinator Dave Lockett on Tuesday confirmed details of an earlier report. According to the report, the press conference was set to take place at the Steelers' facility to promote Roethlisberger's appearance on a show with NBA star Shaquille O'Neal. The show is scheduled to be taped Friday.

A woman has filed a lawsuit in Reno, Nev., accusing Roethlisberger of sexually assaulting her last summer in his penthouse room at a casino in Lake Tahoe during a celebrity golf tournament.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said he is looking into the allegations against Roethlisberger, one of the biggest names in sports

While NFL commissioner Roger Goodell would not define Tuesday what "near future" meant in terms of a decision on suspended quarterback Michael Vick, sources say that a meeting with Vick could take place by Thursday or Friday, likely resulting in a conditional reinstatement next week.

Under a scenario involving conditional reinstatement, Goodell would reserve the right to extend or further define Vick's indefinite suspension but allow him to attend training camp if he is signed with an NFL team, sources said. A conclusive reinstatement, or additional suspension, for the 2009 season would be expected before Sept. 1, the first mandatory date for roster cuts.

Neither Michael Vick nor Plaxico Burress know when they'll be stepping on a football field again, but both will meet with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell before they do.

And the commissioner was tight-lipped yesterday about when those meetings would occur and what their outcomes might be.

"The process is ongoing, and I hope to make a decision sometime in the near future," Goodell said regarding Vick's status after the former Falcons quarterback ended his 23-month federal prison sentence Monday for his involvement in a dog-fighting ring.

"I've been involved. I expect to meet with him."

Goodell added he doesn't know when that would happen. He has previously said that Vick needed to show "genuine remorse" in order to be reinstated.

A Philadelphia man who says he was shot by Colts WR Marvin Harrison last year has reportedly been shot again.

Philadelphia television station WTXF and the Philadelphia Daily News report that 33-year-old Dwight Dixon was shot multiple times Tuesday. The shift director at Hahnemann University Hospital said Dixon was in critical condition late Tuesday.

When contacted by The AP late Tuesday, police said detectives were still at the scene of the shooting and no information was available.

A press conference scheduled for Thursday at the Steelers UPMC training facility on the South Side to promote quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's reality television show competition with Shaquille O'Neal has been canceled.

The cancellation comes one day after news surfaced of a civil lawsuit that was filed July 17 in Nevada by a woman claiming Roethlisberger sexually assaulted her in 2008.

Titans agreed to terms on a multi-year contract with fifth-round RB Javon Ringer.

Mike Shanahan, due $7 million in 2009 after getting fired earlier this offseason, will only collect the money if he refrains from criticism of the Broncos.

The 49ers are reportedly close to finalizing deals with third-round RB Glen Coffee and fifth-round QB Nate Davis.

The UFL is an upstart league headed by its commissioner, Michael Huyghue, a former NFL executive. It has sufficient funding, a smart plan and credibility. The head coaches of the four franchises in 2009 all are former NFL coaches: Jim Fassel (Las Vegas), Dennis Green (San Francisco), Ted Cottrell (New York) and Jim Haslett (Orlando).

Michael Vick's rights already have been assigned to Orlando, even though Huyghue has not given the official green light to Vick, avoiding any appearance of upstaging Goodell.

Nevertheless, if Vick is shut out by the NFL, either by commissioner's decision or by 32 teams with cold feet, it's expected the UFL will provide him an opportunity.

More than one NFL executive and coach believes it's an ideal forum. For one, it provides more space and time for the public -- owners included -- to get comfortable with Vick's return as a player and person.

From the football perspective, it allows him to take every repetition for 2½ months through practice and a six- or seven-game season as a starting quarterback. After the UFL title game during Thanksgiving weekend, Vick would be free to sign with any NFL team.

"As a league, we'll let due process take its course but, yes, I'd love to have him and I think he would benefit from playing with us and in our league," Haslett said. "It would be a great way for him to knock off the rust and get in true football playing condition. Obviously, we know his abilities and we'd certainly tailor to his strengths."

Haslett knows Vick's abilities because he was head coach of the New Orleans Saints and competed against Vick and the Falcons in the NFC South. Haslett's offensive coordinator in Orlando will be Jay Gruden, who's familiar with Vick's skills from his days under brother Jon with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, also in the NFC South.

Here's something else that might surprise the casual observer and please Vick's creditors through bankruptcy court: The quarterback could make more money signing with the UFL. Several sources say the league is willing to pay Vick considerably more than any other player -- around $1 million -- because he would be a marquee attraction for the team, the UFL and its broadcasting partner, Versus.

As teams await commissioner Roger Goodell's ruling on Michael Vick, one expectation is that Goodell will conditionally reinstate Vick, allowing him to go to someone's camp, but withhold a final ruling until, say, Sept. 1, the first day of mandatory roster cut-downs.

Under that calendar, an NFL team wouldn't be signing Vick as its starting quarterback and probably not even as a backup QB. He'd be signed as an athlete, a commodity, a third-string quarterback who can do the Wildcat thing and even give the defense a Wildcat look on the scout team. Maybe he'll be asked to play slot receiver, a little defensive back and return kicks. Who knows?

Houshmandzadeh, an avid Madden video-game player in the past, is boycotting "Madden NFL 10" over what he considered low ratings for himself.

Houshmandzadeh commented to Cowherd: "I understand I averaged 10 yards a catch, but it's the offense, not me. I'm not playing Madden no more until they get my rating right. ... I used to be the best in the world at Madden. I'm going to miss not playing it, but until they do me right, I'm not playing it any more."

Madden ranked Houshmandzadeh as the sixth-best receiver in the NFC, behind Larry Fitzgerald (99), Steve Smith (97), Anquan Boldin (94), Roddy White (93) and Calvin Johnson (92). Houshmandzadeh was at 91. I'm not sure what Houshmandzadeh wants. Madden ranked him 95 or higher in catching, injury, stamina, toughness, catch in traffic and route-running. Some of his lower marks were in strength and elusiveness.

Vick hired speed and conditioning coach Tom Shaw, who has spent the past three weekends training the former Falcons star in the backyard of Vick's suburban Virginia home.

Vick has kept a low profile since his release from federal prison, where he served 18 months of his sentence. He doesn't want his comeback attempt to make him a more polarizing figure, the way news reports have hurt Brett Favre.

Shaw said Vick is in good shape and naturally fast enough to run a 4.4 40-yard dash at this time. But Shaw has been working with Vick on 'explosive movement.' While Vick has spent about 1 hour per day on a treadmill during home confinement, most of his training has been distance running for conditioning purposes.

On the day Michael Vick completed his 23-month federal dogfighting sentence, both Giants and Jets ownership said they have no interest in bringing the suspended NFL quarterback aboard.

"On a lot of levels, no," Giants co-owner and CEO John Mara said Monday, as the NJ Transit rail service to the Meadowlands was launched.

"No, there's no interest that we have," Jets owner Woody Johnson said. "We've got Kellen Clemens and now we have the young Mark Sanchez. I think we're good on quarterbacks."

In a complaint that reads like the rape allegations made several years ago against NBA star Kobe Bryant, Harrah's employee Andrea McNulty alleges sexual assault against Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in a lawsuit filed last week in Washoe County, Nevada.

But lawyer David Cornwell strongly denied the allegations Monday night, in a statement released to PFT. "Ben has never sexually assaulted anyone; especially Andrea McNulty," Cornwell said.

Could one former Tennessee Titans receiver replace another in Baltimore?

According to a league source, former Titan Drew Bennett is scheduled to work out for the Baltimore Ravens on Friday, as the team is looking for a receiver thanks to the potential retirement of ex- Titans star Derrick Mason.

Vikings Brad Childress expressed no concerns about the fact first-round pick Percy Harvin was sent home from the NFL’s rookie symposium last month because of illness, but the Vikings coach did confirm the wide receiver is going to have to attend the event next year.

“You always worry about health concerns and making sure you get those things taken care of,” Childress said when asked about Harvin. “He’s going to be there next year and he may be even speaking next year because he’ll have a lap around the track at that point and time. He’ll be able to lend a different perspective for all those rookies.”

Harvin also missed the Vikings’ rookie minicamp shortly after the draft because of illness, but Childress said Harvin’s sicknesses didn’t worry him and called it “two different situations.”

The Ravens made their first move since Derrick Mason's retirement announcement, inviting four mid-level wide receivers for a tryout on Friday.

While all the names can't be confirmed, it is believed that D.j. Hackett will be the most recognizable receiver at the workout.

A Ravens official couldn't confirm any names or whether a workout had been scheduled.

The agents for receivers Amani Toomer and Justin Mccareins said they wouldn't be at the workout. Other free-agent receivers available include: Drew Bennett, Darrell Jackson, Robert Ferguson, Koren Robinson and Ike Hilliard.

There has been speculation that Marvin Harrison, who is considered the top free-agent receiver left, might wait until the middle of training camp before making a decision.

If Brett Favre were deciding upon a 19th NFL season that involved a venue closer to his Hattiesburg, Miss., home — say New Orleans — the answer would already be yes. If there was a regular-season game to be played in two weeks, his answer would already be yes.

Minus those deal-makers, Favre is mulling the potential deal-breakers. He thinks his body — and specifically his arm — can withstand season-long exertion. He questions whether he wants to endure the toil of a training camp, a preseason, and all of the mandatory NFL minutiae.

Ultimately, the Vikings expect the answer to be yes.

And those closest to Favre do, too. They expect that he will provide his answer well before the July 30 deadline he recently offered. They expect that he will reveal his decision by Friday.

That’s the news for now — I’ll have more on Favre’s decision in a longer piece on NFL.com later today.

Redskins offseason review:
It was a tumultuous few months for QB Jason Campbell as owner Dan Snyder tried to replace him twice only to be rebuffed by Denver for Jay Cutler and Cleveland for the No. 5 draft pick (which the Jets traded for to draft Mark Sanchez). Campbell said all the right things during the offseason, but he probably knows this is a make-or-break year for him.

Can Campbell ultimately succeed?
He had to be bruised by Snyder's lack of faith, but he has the locker room and coach Jim Zorn on his side. This is Campbell's best chance in three years as a starter to take a big leap. He's comfortable with the system, thinks second-year players Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas will help out the passing game and has a favorable early-season schedule.

One of the best NFL players to talk with is Redskins Pro Bowl tight end Chris Cooley.

And he was dealing high heat when he joined us on Sirius NFL Radio this week.

Cooley scored just one touchdown last year and revealed that Jim Zorn promised him at least six this season. I think that will happen with everyone more comfortable in the offense.

He also told us that Jason Campbell got "conservative" last season, seemingly trying to protect his streak of not throwing a pick. Cooley said that Campbell is cognizant of what happened, and it's been addressed and the quarterback is ready to let it rip without the fear of a turnover.

I think that's vital to the Redskins' success. I believe in Campbell but thought he was too cautious last year. I also don't think he was truly on the same page with Zorn.

For the record, I don't remotely believe Derrick Mason is retired.

Sure, I believe Mason is emotional after the killing of his close friend and former teammate Steve Mcnair. I believe Mason is a bit beaten down by the health of his shoulder.

But most especially, what I really believe is Mason has been frustrated with his contract in Baltimore for a while now and "retirement" was an ultimate power play. Trust me — that's what the Ravens believe. And that's the wrong way for Mason to handle it.

I'm scheduled to be at Ravens training camp on August 11. I believe I will see Derrick Mason, Joe Flacco's security blanket, catching passes. And he'll at least be playing for the Ravens in Week 1.

still think Derrick Mason might play ball in 09, but Ravens will work out some WR Fri, according to source, DJ Hackett among them

With just over a week to go until the Raiders report to training camp in Napa, Asomugha spoke on a variety of team-related topics, specifically on new DC Jim Marshall.
"He's got a few more coverages than we've had in the past, so he might be able to use that," Asomugha said of Marshall, who has been off limits to the media since replacing Rob Ryan.
"(Marshall is) still a dominant man-to-man guy. He never has been, but coming here he understands that's the way Mr. Davis likes it. And he sees the talent that we have and the speed so he's fallen into that. So we're still going to do man, still going to free up linebackers and other guys like that. But he's got a lot more blitzing, a lot more coverages, so we should be fine."

There had been talk that Marshall's scheme might free up Nnamdi Asomugha to shadow the other teams' No. 1 receiver.

Suspended NFL star Michael Vick's federal dogfighting sentence ended Monday, freeing him to lobby for a return to the field. Vick's attorney Lawrence Woodward told The Associated Press outside Vick's suburban Virginia home that the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback had been released from federal custody as scheduled. That means Vick no longer has to wear the electronic monitor he's had on while under home confinement for the last two months of his 23-month sentence. Freedom will allow Vick to step up his efforts to resume his pro football career. Vick hopes to soon meet with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, who has said he would review Vick's status after Vick completed his sentence.

The Dolphins indicated they want to make a multiyear commitment to potential 2010 free agent Ronnie Brown and have had preliminary conversations about a contract extension, agent Todd France said. The sides will speak further during training camp.

Brad Childress said Sunday that he hasn’t talked to Brett Favre in a couple of weeks and was not told directly by the retired quarterback that he will make a decision about whether to play by the time the Vikings report to training camp on July 30 in Mankato.

But Childress, who was on vacation last week, did see Favre’s recent comments about having a self-imposed deadline. More importantly, perhaps, Childress also saw the footage of Favre throwing to receivers at a high school in Hattiesburg, Miss.

“I liked his throwing motion, the little bit that I saw on tape,” Childress said. “It looked fine to me.”

Texans quarterback Matt Schaub inadvertently helped new golf fan Sally Capehart learn first-hand the dangers of attending a celebrity golf tournament on Sunday.

Capehart was watching the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship from about 10 yards left of the par-3, 17th green bordering Lake Tahoe when Schaub’s tee shot hit her square on top of her head.

Brandon Marshall has spent much of his offseason training programs trying to improve his speed.

Marshawn Lynch's three-game suspension (barring a successful appeal) for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy means the Bills must get Fred Jackson and Dominic Rhodes ready to share the early load at running back.

But Lynch will get his normal amount of snaps in camp — and possibly more. Schonert said Lynch probably will play more than usual in the preseason games to make up for the time he'll miss.

Negotiations between the Philadelphia Eagles and first-round pick WR Jeremy Maclin are expected to pick up next week.

Former Broncos teammate John Lynch defended Jay Cutler and criticized the Denver organization for trading him this offseason.

"I sometimes think during this whole ordeal, (the Broncos) tried to paint him as a bad guy, but he's not a bad guy at all," Lynch said. "This is a guy, in my mind, that's a once-in-every-15-year-type talent. He's got that kind of skill. He'll grow into the other things. The Broncos erred in letting him go."

QB Jamarcus Russell followed through on his plan to hold a private and voluntary passing camp between the end of minicamp and training camp. Russell covered the airfare for several receivers as they joined him in his home state of Alabama to get some extra practice in, but one key player did not join them.

First-round pick Darrius Heyward-bey told PFW he was unable to attend the workouts as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for almost all of minicamps and OTAs.

While it’s not a lock that Derrick Mason will retire, assuming Mason follows up on his announced plans, Ravens WR Mark Clayton will profit the most when it comes to increased Fantasy stats.

One of the Eagles to watch closely in camp is tight end Brett Celek. The new starter is expected to have a key component of the offense. "It is a different situation, and I know all eyes will be on me," Celek said recently. Celek is replacing the annually disappointing L.J. John Smith, who rarely stayed healthy or produced consistently. Celek flashed last season with a 131-yard game against Seattle in Week Nine, then made his mark in the playoffs.

It was only 7 1/2 months ago that Eagles head coach Andy Reid insisted Brent Celek's huge performance against the Seahawks - six catches for 131 yards, a franchise record for tight ends - was essentially a fluke.

"There were times they didn't do a great job covering him," Reid said with a straight face.

So why, we all wondered, doesn't anybody ever do a lousy job covering starter L.J. Smith?

"L.J. attracts so much attention," Reid said that day in early November. "L.J. is one of those guys that the other team is always aware of."

Now, the charade is over. Reid can stop pretending that Smith is better than Celek. He can stop pretending that Celek isn't the big-play tight end the Eagles expected Smith to become.

Question: Do you anticipate 49ers WR Michael Crabtree making a major contribution this year, i.e. 50 or more catches, 6 or more TDs?

Answer: My crystal ball is a bit murky on this one. After all, Crabtree has yet to run a route at full speed and catch a pass on the 49ers' practice field after undergoing surgery to repair a stress fracture in March.

In speaking with the 49ers this week, his recovery is coming along nicely and he is expected - barring some late setback - to be on the practice field Saturday, Aug. 1, when the 49ers have their first practice of training camp.

Regardless of who wins the QB battle for the Bucs this fall, Tampa Bay's offensive philosophy appears set.

Run the football.

New OC Jeff Jagodzinski is committed to a run-oriented attack, whether rookie Josh Freeman, Luke Mccown or Byron Leftwich starts under center Sept. 13 when the Cowboys visit Raymond James Stadium in the regular-season opener.

"We will be a successful team running the ball - I promise you that," said Jagodzinski, who improved Green Bay's ground game from 30th to 23rd in 2006 when he became OC of the Packers. "That's one of my strong suits, my knowledge of the running game."

Jagodzinski is convinced Tampa Bay has the offensive line and running backs to forge a powerful ground game. That's good news for new HC Raheem Morris, who vows the 2009 Bucs will force their will on opponents.

It's too early to say much about rookie receivers Mohamed Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie. Like the QBs, the Browns want to see the rookie receivers under pressure and getting tackled. Robiskie had some excellent practices and some just so-so. Massaquoi had some good flashes. The Browns need at least one of these guys to become a viable player by the opener.

The Browns believe that nearly as important as finding the right QB is getting better play out of the receivers. They need Braylon Edwards to return to something approaching his Pro Bowl 2007 season and provide a big-play threat. If Edwards can do that, the Browns think Mike Furrey can help as a slot receiver. They consider receptions for first down a key stat, especially in third-down situations. In 2006, 54 of Furrey's 98 catches were for first downs. In 2007, it was 37-of-61. Last season, he played only nine games and caught 18 passes. They liked what they saw from the 32-year-old in minicamps.

The Browns are looking at Joshua Cribbs as a receiver, and certainly a kickoff returner. But they have been talking about Jerome Harrison as a punt returner. They are expected to look at it in the preseason. They want to find ways to get Harrison the ball more. They also believe using Harrison as a punt returner can save physical wear on Cribbs if they use him more on offense. Have not heard anything about Cribbs on defense yet.

Mike Shanahan said Friday that he plans to coach again in the NFL and that he had the opportunity to interview for head-coaching jobs for the 2009 season, but "it just didn't feel right at the time."

"It's just something that my gut didn't feel right," the former Denver Broncos coach said after participating in the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship at Edgewood-Tahoe Golf Course. "I probably needed a little time to get away, especially with the way the situation wound up in Denver. I'm glad I did."

The Broncos surprisingly fired Shanahan in December after the team failed to make the playoffs for the third consecutive year. Shanahan won two Super Bowls in 14 seasons as the Broncos' coach and wielded significant power over most football decisions.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, teams, fans and sponsors are among those who will weigh in on Michael Vick's future.

First and foremost, Goodell must decide whether Vick's suspension will end and, if so, when -- allowing the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback a chance to play in the league again. Goodell is expected to act fairly quickly, so Vick and teams know his status for the coming season. Training camps for veterans start opening next weekend.

There has been communication between Vick's camp and the league about the process, although neither side is making substantive comments publicly about where things stand.

At least there's no question about who the team's QB starter will be this fall — veteran Kerry Collins returns and should benefit from the new options on offense.

But everyone who wants to dismiss the notion that there's a competition for the No. 2 job better think again.

All things equal, the Titans would love for Vince Young to blow veteran Patrick Ramsey — and Collins, for that matter — out of the water and succeed. It would make them look better after investing so much in Young after picking him third overall in the 2006 draft. It's uncertain whether it's ever going to work for Young in Nashville, and there are those inside the organization who think that it won't.

That brings us to Ramsey. The journeyman QB is familiar with OC Mike Heimerdinger's offense, and he's never going to be a distraction. The same can't be said for Young, who also has this contract situation lurking — his cap number skyrockets to more than $14 million next year.

Browns TE Steve Heiden, who tore the anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments in his right knee last December expects to be cleared to practice when Browns veterans take the field on July 31.

Jared Allen pretty much reached his limit when it comes to the Vikings' months-long pursuit of Brett Favre.

"If we get Brett, then that's a bonus," the All-Pro defensive end said in a phone interview. "But let's either get it done and get moving on with it or let it go.

"It's not so much that it's a distraction because we're professionals and don't really buy into that. But it's annoying."

Earlier this week, Michael Lombardi of the National Football Post reported that he had "been hearing talk" that Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson might ask for a trade when the team ends its soap opera/charade and signs Brett Favre. As usual, Lombardi has his antennae up in the right direction, because the rumors are more than just talk. Barring a dramatic change of heart, Jackson will indeed seek a trade when Favre ends his retirement for a second straight summer, sources say. Would there be any kind of market for Jackson's services? Probably not a huge one, but there will be some teams compelled to explore him. Jackson is only 26, has some starting experience now, and is probably better than a lot of the backups in the league.

Chris Johnson tweeted about what numbers he expects for himself this season:

I don't know excact number but over 1500yards and 15TDS and 600 receving and 5receving td What yallthinkbou ...

Don't try to tell Maurice Jones-Drew that he'll carry a heavier burden in the Jacksonville Jaguars' offensive backfield next season. As far as he's concerned, all Fred Taylor's release and subsequent free-agent signing with the New England Patriots means is a change in the cast with which Jones-Drew will share the load.

"Being the No. 1 guy is one thing," Jones-Drew said. "My thing is being the guy that helps the team win, and in '07 (when the Jaguars went 11-5), that's what we did. Fred ran the ball. When he got tired, I came in and I contributed to helping us win games. As long as everybody takes that role, we'll be fine.

Carson Palmer commented about his health:
"I'm great. I feel great. I'm 100 percent healthy, throwing, lifting, running all that stuff."

Former Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said Friday that he plans to coach again in the NFL and that he had the opportunity to interview for head-coaching jobs for the 2009 season, but "it just didn't feel right at the time."

"I plan on getting back," said Shanahan, who has a career record of 146-98, including 8-12 in one-plus season (1988, four games in 1989) as coach of the then-Los Angeles Raiders. "I probably spent more time studying football the last offseason than I have the last 10 years. I watch a lot of film and do the same thing I do during the season. I'll see if there are any opportunities out there at the end of the year that will work out for the club and myself."

Ex- Falcons coach Dan Reeves has been unsuccessful trying to contact Michael Vick to offer support.

"I've even written, and I've tried to make appointments to see him in prison, but they never got back to me," Reeves told FanHouse, sounding more perplexed than perturbed by the situation.

"I don't know if he doesn't want to talk to me because he's embarrassed or what," said Reeves, who lives in Atlanta, where he coached Vick for the first three seasons of his career. "I don't know, but I want him to know that I'm on his side. I can't do anything more than I'm trying to do.

"If he's looking for somebody to stand up for him and to be a father figure and not try to make a buck like most of the people around him are doing -- you know, I just want to help him. I wish he would call me."

Lions agreed to terms with sixth-round RB Aaron Brown on a multi-year contract.

The Rams signed cornerback Bradley Fletcher.

The Texans signed cornerback Glover Quin.

The Jaguars signed wide receiver Jarett Dillard.

Green Bay Packers receiver Donald Driver said he loves Chicago Bears receiver Devin Hester, but just the same, Driver isn't impressed with the Bears' receiving corps.

"They don't have a receiver," Driver said on the "Waddle & Silvy" show on ESPN 1000. "They don't have any true receivers that step up and play and take their team to where they want to go.

"I love Devin, and Devin knows that, but Devin plays [defensive back]. I don't think he's just a solid receiver right now. He may become one as years go on, but it doesn't happen overnight."

Browns quarterback Derek Anderson has recovered from a calf injury and will be ready for the start of training camp, a source told ESPN.com Friday.

Anderson, who is competing with Brady Quinn for Cleveland's starting quarterback job, missed the final two days of mandatory minicamp in June after injuring his right calf.

Anderson finished minicamp with a limp and a heavy wrap on his leg, and neither Anderson nor Browns coach Eric Mangini would discuss the severity of the ailment.

But a source told ESPN.com on Friday that, after a month of rest and rehab, Anderson's health is no longer an issue.

Cleveland's full team will practice for the first time in training camp Aug. 1.

Lions TE Casey Fitzsimmons is the only tight end remaining from last year's roster and he's competing with three players that GM Martin Mayhew and HC Jim Schwartz have brought in - veteran free agent Will Heller and rookies Brandon Pettigrew and Dan Gronkowski.

Pettigrew, the 20th overall pick in the draft, will likely be the starter sooner rather than later, leaving FitzSimmons to compete with Heller for the No. 2 spot or Gronkowski for No. 3. Heller and FitzSimmons are different players so their position on the depth chart depends on what the team will be doing on any particular play. Heller is a good blocker with average receiving skills while FitzSimmons is a good receiver with average blocking ability.

Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall says he is committed to reporting to training camp on time.

But that's about as much detail as he would spill about his future in Denver in an interview Thursday with the NFL Network.

Marshall, who requested a trade in June, said he would show up in Denver by July 27, the reporting date for rookies and injured veterans, rather than forfeit any of his salary.

The Broncos could fine Marshall $15,888 per day that he fails to show up at Dove Valley. He already skipped the team's mandatory minicamp in June, allowing the Broncos to fine him up to $35,329.

"As of right now, I'm still under contract," Marshall said on the network's NFL Total Access show. "I have a wedding to prepare for, so I'm definitely going to show up. I'm not going to let them take no money."

Patriots agreed to terms with seventh-round WR Julian Edelman on a four-year contract.

Brandon Marshall said his hip, which he had offseason surgery on, is getting better. He said he recently did a 360 basketball dunk, then a windmill dunk.

“So I’m good, I’m ready,” Marshall said.

Raiders agreed to terms with sixth-round TE Brandon Myers on a four-year contract.

Atlanta Coach Mularkey knows he can't use Michael Turner as much as he did last season, but that's where Jerious Norwood comes into play. Turner had 376 carries for 1,699 yards, while Norwood had only 95 rushing attempts, even though he averaged 5.1 yards per carry.

"You can't run 370 times a season," Mularkey said. "If Michael does that, he's going to wear out over time."

FA WR Matt Jones has sequestered himself in a two-bedroom villa at IMG Academies in Bradenton for the better part of the last three months, Jones has spent more than $15,000 to train feverishly in seclusion with a team of specialists — ranging from nutritionists to mental-conditioning experts — for the second chance that falls into the hands of so many NFL players these days.

“Matt Jones deserves a second chance,” said former teammate Maurice Williams, a Jaguars tackle. “We all make mistakes, do things we aren’t proud of. He messed up and was honest about it. He knows he can’t afford to make any more mistakes.”

Jones’ agent, Dave Butz, said he’s spoken with several teams about possible interest in his client. Nothing concrete seems imminent.

Patriots agreed to terms on a four-year contract with third-round WR Brandon Tate.

Chad Ochocinco says he’s going to Tweet during Bengals games no matter what the NFL says.

Although the Cincinnati Bengals receiver previously had said he wants to post his musings on Twitter during games, that idea was recently nixed by the NFL in no uncertain terms. He now says he plans to do it anyway…

“There’s a lot of things they (NFL) don’t want me to do. I do it anyway. They know that. I don’t know why they even fussing about it. … When I say I’m going to do something, I’m going to do it, regardless of what they say.”

Ricky Williams is taking up massage therapy.

Lions coach Jim Schwartz doesn't worry about Calvin Johnson, his star receiver, getting into trouble. He loves his work ethic and attention to detail.

"He doesn't create headaches for me," Schwartz said. "I don't have fires I have to put out for Calvin. That gives me more time to deal with more important things."

Michael Vick is getting physically prepared to play football again, with the help of his high school coach Tommy Reamon. During home confinement, Vick's conditioning work has been limited by space, but he's been able to work extensively on agility drills. Vick also has been throwing footballs — for no longer than 20 or 30 yards because of the confined space in the backyard — with Reamon's son, Tommy, Jr., a quarterback entering his freshman year at Old Dominion.

"They're messing around with (throwing) accuracy," Reamon says, mindful of the knock on Vick throughout his NFL career. "It's a small window where he can throw, but that's all he can do. Naturally, it's not what Brett Favre is out there doing. But after (Monday), he will be non-stop. He'll be going three times a day."

Reamon scoffs at suggestions that Vick — whose unique style was accented by exceptional speed that made him perhaps the most dangerous running quarterback in NFL history — will have trouble recapturing his potency after a long layoff.

"He's ready to pick up where he left off," Reamon says.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh plans to meet with Derrick Mason as soon as next week about the wide receiver's retirement announcement.

Harbaugh, who is on vacation, said he has exchanged text messages with Mason since the team's leading receiver decided to retire Monday.

"We have an appointment to talk real soon," Harbaugh said Wednesday. "It will be interesting to see where he's at with everything. I know he's been going through a lot the last couple of weeks with Steve's [McNair] situation, but I'm looking forward to talking to him."

In an interview with ESPN, apparently from the red carpet at the ESPY awards, an ascot-wearing Brandon Marshall said that he'll show up for training camp later this month.

"Right now I'm obligated, I'm under contract. . . . It's $14,000 a day if i miss," Marshall said. "I'm not stupid. So I will be there."

The Rams signed safety Oshiomogho Atogwe to a one-year contract.

The Browns signed cornerbacks Don Carey, Coye Francies and running back James Davis; waived linebacker Jonathan Foster, defensive back Nate Ness, and running back Marcus Thomas.

Seahawks running back T.j. Duckett joined KJR’s Mitch Levy this morning to talk about the upcoming season. Duckett said he’s looking forward to expanding his role as a short-yardage back, and believes the zone blocking system fits his style as a one-cut, downhill runner.

“I would love to have more carries,” Duckett said. “I’m not just wanting to settle with being a short-yardage back just because of my size. So yeah, definitely, mentally I’m ready to compete for that.

"Physically I’m ready, so it’s just a matter of now going into camp and working. Working and showing what I can do. And trying – I don’t want to say knocking the stigma of a big back off – but showing I can be more of a guy who runs inside the 20s or a first and second-down guy. And give the coaches more confidence that I can make things happen.”

On Derrick Mason retirement: Ravens HC Harbaugh acknowledged that Mason has been through a lot emotionally with the death of his close friend, Steve Mcnair.

Guys who drop passes tend to downplay it. That approach may help them, as it's supposed to be in their nature to expect to catch the next one.

Jaguars right end Marcedes Lewis drops passes. And he's not in denial.

Here are last year's drop numbers from Elias, the league's official statisticians. (Thanks to Pete Newmann at ESPN Stats & Information for getting this for me.)

Most Drops Last Season

Brandon Marshall, 18

Braylon Edwards, 14

Dwayne Bowe, 12

Marcedes Lewis, 11

Laveranues Coles, 10

Lewis dropped more passes than any other tight end in the NFL.

Brett Favre told the AP today that he will give the Vikings an answer on whether he will play this season by the time the team opens training camp at the end of this month.

We’ve long expected that the answer is going to be ”I’m good to go.” Asked last week about whether Favre would be a member of the Vikings, I put it at 90%. After reading Favre’s quotes today, I’ve increased those odds to 99.9%.

Read between the lines of what Favre had to say — plus, the report of his performance from Chris Talbott of the AP — and it’s clear Favre’s second retirement is going to end like his first. Yes, Favre puts up a few caution flags in some of his comments but do you think Talbott would have described Favre as being “jovial” if the quarterback was having an abnormal amount of pain in his surgically repaired throwing arm?

Also, consider that Favre gave a lengthy interview after working out at Oak Grove High School in Hattiesburg, Miss. A dejected Favre would have been unlikely to stop and chat for an extended period. He also likely wouldn’t have added a Sunday workout to his schedule this week.

If wide receiver Derrick Mason follows through on his retirement announcement - he told ESPN on Monday that he's "99 percent" sure - his unexpected departure would leave the Ravens with few options to replace him.

1. Marvin Harrison, free agent

2. Brandon Marshall, Broncos

3. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals

4. Plaxico Burress, free agent

5. Drew Bennett, free agent

There could be another interesting name or two released by the Raiders in the coming weeks. They released veteran safety Keith Davis and sixth-round pick Stryker Sulak on Monday. They have 85 players on the roster and six unsigned draft choices, meaning five players have to go in order for the Raiders to start camp with 80 signed players.

One position to follow is quarterback. Jeff Garcia, Charlie Frye and Bruce Gradkowski were signed during the offseason, but it is unlikely coach Tom Cable will go to camp with five veteran quarterbacks. That could leave Andrew Walter as the odd man out. Don't be surprised to see him released soon.

Franchise tagged safety Oshiomogho Atogwe is expected to sign his one-year, $6.342 million tender with the St. Louis Rams today, according to a source, as the deadline for tagged players to sign long-term deals passes at 4 p.m. ET.

Brett Favre acknowledged he's "running out of time" to decide whether he'll play for the Vikings this season.

The quarterback told The AP on Wednesday that he'll give the Vikings an answer on whether he'll play by the July 30 start of training camp. Favre has been working out with the Oak Grove High School football team three days a week all summer, but added a Sunday workout this week.

Heading into camp, Buccaneers QB Luke Mccown is the starter, but that job could end up falling to Byron Leftwich.

When the Lions traded for WR Dennis Northcutt, it meant the immediate departure of one player (safety Gerald Alexander) and it might mean the eventual departure of another (WR Ronald Curry).

Northcutt was dealt to the Jaguars in a one-on-one deal involving Alexander.

Northcutt should have an impact on Curry because now both players are vying for the slot WR position.

Northcutt has been productive throughout his nine-year career and also gives the Lions a presence at punt returner. Curry, who was signed as an unrestricted free agent, hasn't shown much so far in the off-season workouts and there are concerns that his speed has diminished.

While Alexander was expendable, it's unlikely the Lions would've picked up Northcutt if they had been happy so far with Curry.

Now that WR Bryant Johnson's in Detroit, Johnson is hoping to benefit from playing opposite of Calvin Johnson, who should move into the elite class of WRs this season. Bryant Johnson still has the speed to get downfield and all of his experience in the slot has improved his play over the middle.

Other factors that should help Bryant Johnson get more opportunities with the Lions are the addition of rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew and free agent slot WR Dennis Northcutt - who will both put more pressure on the defense - and a greater emphasis on the running game.

In the past few years, teams didn't respect Detroit's running attack so they could play two-deep zones and not worry about WRs on either side of the field. If the Lions can run the ball with any effectiveness, one safety will have to drop into the box. The other safety will have to shade Calvin Johnson and now the field opens up more for Bryant Johnson.

Former NFL player Travis Henry is scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday for his role financing a drug trafficking ring that moved at least 11 pounds of cocaine between Denver and Billings.
Henry, of Frostproof, Fla., was arrested by federal agents last October—just a few months after the RB was released from the Broncos.

He pleaded guilty in April to a single count of trafficking cocaine and faces a possible 10 years or more in federal prison.

Henry was described by prosecutors as the "money guy" who helped finance the operation. He has said he was struggling to keep up with child support payments after fathering at least nine children from nine women.

It appears the Panthers and defensive end Julius Peppers will not agree to a long-term deal before today's 4p.m. deadline, meaning the sides could be headed for another offseason standoff.

Teams that used their franchise tag this year have until today's deadline to sign those players. If a deal isn't reached by the deadline, teams can't negotiate with those players until after the 2009 season.

As today's deadline approaches, LB Terrell Suggs remains optimistic that a long-term deal can be reached with the Ravens.

"Like I said before, it's just some minor things that both sides can compromise on and get an agreement," Suggs told The Baltimore Sun Tuesday. "I'm not stressing out over this because I've always thought there are only two things that can happen: We either get a deal done or we don't."

The NFL deadline for teams to sign their franchise players to multiyear deals is 4 p.m. today. If the Ravens fail to do so, a new contract can't be signed until after the season and Suggs will earn $10.2 million this year under the tag.

Falcons defensive end John Abraham, who is scheduled to make $5 million this season on the heels of a 16 1/2-sack season, does not plan to hold out. Abraham did not fully participate in spring practices, fueling a report on the NFL Network that he was unhappy with his contract and intended to skip part of training camp.

"It's a long offseason and they have to stir the pot," agent Rich Rosa told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "We don't know where that is coming from. There won't be a holdout. He'll be there when camp opens.

"He's ready to go. He's so happy to be on that team."

As an injured player, Broncos WR Brandon Marshall has been informed he needs to show up for training camp with the team's rookies on July 27.

As a disgruntled player, Marshall is a threat to continue his protest of his existing contract by failing to report to the Broncos' Dove Valley headquarters by his assigned date.

All players received a letter from coach Josh McDaniels that formally notified them of their reporting dates for training camp. Veterans who demonstrated healthy bodies through the Broncos' off-season minicamps don't have to report until July 30, with two-a-day workout sessions commencing the next day.

Still without a long-term contract, Leon Washington indicated that he’s still mulling the possibility of a training-camp holdout. Veterans are due to report July 30 at SUNY-Cortland.

Jets signed TE Richard Owens, formerly of the Rams.

Dolphins signed fourth-round WR Brian Hartline to a four-year contract.

Detroit Lions receiver Dennis Northcutt, who is involved in a lawsuit involving an ex-girlfriend, probably won't face any disciplinary measures from the National Football League. Northcutt, a veteran receiver, was recently traded to Detroit in exchange for safety Gerald Alexander.

According to NFL spokesman Greg Aiello, "Civil cases generally are not reviewed under the conduct policy.''

Former Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel, who led the Patriots to an 11-5 record after taking over for an injured Tom Brady in the 2008 season-opener, has parlayed his one season as an NFL staring quarterback into a lucrative long-term contract.

A source close to Cassel has confirmed that Cassel has agreed to a six-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, who are now run by former Patriots vice president of player personnel Scott Pioli. The source has confirmed that Cassel's deal is for $63 million over the six years, $28 million guaranteed.

The 27-year-old Cassel was scheduled to play this season under the franchise tag, which the Patriots placed on him following the 2008. The franchise deal was a one-year contract that would have paid Cassel $14.65 million this season. This new deal rips up and replaces the franchise tag contract.

Ronald Curry will likely be the odd man out in Detroit, after the Lions trade for Dennis Northcutt.

Devin Hester, who surrendered his kickoff return duties to Danieal Manning last season, said he would be willing to give up punt returns, too ... just not immediately.

"I think a return man simply has to be a return man,’’ Hester said. "There’s really no other position he should go out and play. A return man is a totally different ball game from trying to be a return man and starting receiver, or the starting cornerback, or a starting safety. I don’t think it’s going to work. That’s why you never really see it last that long in the NFL. You can’t do it.

"But with me right now, I feel like at punt returns there are going to be opportunities where we’re going to need big returns,’’ he continued. "With all the success we’ve had at the return game, it would be real crazy to just give it up now. Plus I’m looking to break this record. In the back of my mind, I’ve got to get this record before I give (punt returns) up.’’

If Derrick Mason does indeed stay retired, Baltimore's top receivers would be Mark Clayton and Demetrius Williams, two players who have yet to meet expectations. The would-be third receiver, Marcus Smith, didn't catch a pass in his rookie season.

There has been speculation that Derrick Mason could be using retirement as leverage for a new contract. When he first sought an extension in March, Mason said he didn't know whether he would return to the Ravens without a new deal and would "explore other options" if he didn't have one. He would have earned $3 million in 2009.

Lamont Smith, Mason's agent, confirmed in an e-mail to The Baltimore Sun that the 12-year veteran has retired. Mason, who played eight seasons with the Tennessee Titans and four with the Ravens, did not return phone calls from The Baltimore Sun.

Smith said Mason's decision had "little if anything to do with Baltimore's refusal to grant him an extension." The agent added that Mason would not be doing any interviews for the next two weeks.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers did the inevitable and cut ties with ex-Bear Brian Griese, reducing to four the number of signal callers they have on their roster.

"He wants to play,'' Griese's agent Ralph Cindrich said by text message.

Griese never showed for the Bucs' offseason program after beating out Jeff Garcia for the job there last season. He's been residing in Denver where he's had the opportunity to reconnect with good friend Kyle Orton.

It's possible that Dennis Northcutt could be suspended for at least one game this season because of a prior incident involving his ex-girlfriend. In an e-mail exchange Monday, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said, "We're looking into this.''

Brandon Marshall is unwilling to talk about what jersey he wants to wear in the fall. However, he’s made it clear that whatever uniform he dons, he expects to suit up in great shape.

“All I can do is get up every day and beat my body up, and that’s the truth,” the Denver Broncos wideout said during an exclusive interview after a workout on Friday at the University of Minnesota with fellow Pro Bowl receiver Larry Fitzgerald(notes). “At the end of the day, I’m going to be playing football, and, if I’m going to be out there, I got to be in the best shape I can be in.”

Mike Lombardi of the NFL Network reports that he has "been hearing talk" that Tarvaris Jackson might request a trade if and when the Vikings sign Brett Favre.

Jets released TE Bubba Franks.

Ravens receiver Derrick Mason retires from NFL - In the most surprising move of the Ravens' offseason, wide receiver Derrick Mason has abruptly announced his retirement.

"I have had a tremendous career and I played for two great teams. I had fun," Mason told jocklife.com, a Web site that shares an office building with Mason's agent. "In my career, I have been able to do everything but win a Super Bowl. I've had the opportunity to play on great teams and with great players. After 12 years, I have seen it all and done it all," Mason said. "Right now, I am content with the decision I am making. All good things come to an end, and I am ready to see what else life has to offer."

Report: Cowboys QB Tony Romo and Jessica Simpson split up...

So says People Magazine in its story online today. In case it matters, he is credited as breaking up with her. Hey, it matters to some people. The magazine says it happened on Thursday night.

The Buccaneers released quarterback Brian Griese on Monday while also signing defensive tackle Roy Miller, their third-round selection in the 2009 NFL Draft.

Question: What Ravens player will surprise everyone on the upside?

Answer: I’m not sure if it will qualify as a surprise, but running back Ray Rice is emerging as a more physical runner this year. Rice has gained some muscle in his upper body and should be better suited to run between the tackles.

He took the majority of the first-string carries during the minicamps with Willis Mcgahee sidelined following arthroscopic knee surgery. I thought Rice looked strong, quick and ready to shoulder a bigger workload this fall.

Question: In your opinion, is Ravens Demetrius Williams competing for the third WR spot or does he pretty much have it if he’s healthy? If he’s not healthy, is there any chance the Ravens offer him an injury settlement?

Answer: If Demetrius Williams can fully recuperate from his surgery last year to repair his Achilles’ tendon and bone spurs in his ankle, then he’s, without question, the Ravens’ third wide receiver. If not for the durability concerns that have plagued him, then Williams would have probably emerged as a starter and the primary deep threat by now. However, he’s continually been injured as he enters this one-year, restricted free agent contract.

The prospects of the Ravens dumping Williams with an injury settlement are virtually nil. They’re going to need him. Based on what I witnessed during offseason minicamps, there were strong signs of him regaining his old form and being able to run and cut the way he needs to be able to perform optimally. He has also gained some weight, bulking up to try to become less prone to injuries.

Q: Is Steve Hauschka settling in or is Matt Stover still on Ozzie Newsome’s speed dial..

A: It’s going to be a close battle between Steve Hauschka and Graham Gano with Hauschka holding a slight edge heading into camp. I expect one of those two candidates to win the job. If they falter, then they can always call Matt Stover up to save the day.

Question: How’s Ravens RB Willis Mcgahee doing? Since he put himself in Harbs’ doghouse last year, is he close to getting out anytime soon with a change of work ethic and attitude?

Is he a lock to be the lead running back this year with Le’Ron McClain moving back to the primary fullback, or can Cedric Peerman pose a serious challenge after having an impressive minicamp.

A: Willis Mcgahee could still stand for some improvement in his conditioning and practice habits. I think the relationship has improved with the coaching staff, but there’s a chance that Ray Rice could take away some of McGahee’s playing time.

I don’t expect Cedric Peerman to make a major push for a lot of significant playing time, barring injuries to other players. I’m impressed with him, though, in general.

Much like Jackson, Dominic Rhodes is a smooth receiving option out of the backfield. Coming off a 2008 season with Indianapolis in which he set a career high in receptions with 45, which included three touchdowns, Rhodes is yet another potential playmaker that could make it tough for the coaching staff to keep him off the field.

“His experience speaks for itself, as far as what he’s done in the past,” said Studesville. “I’m excited to get him into pads. But he’s a veteran player who’s sharp and smart and has great quicks and burst.”

Knowing Marshawn Lynch is going to miss the first three regular season games due to suspension, Rhodes and Jackson could be delivering a lot of impact plays early in 2009.

RB Fred Jackson has provided some big plays for the Bills in the past. His 54-yard catch and run against Washington as part of a 151-yard all purpose day in a comeback win while spot starting for an injured Lynch was just one example. Last year’s 131-yard rushing effort in the season finale was another.

With a strong likelihood that Jackson’s role on offense will increase, he stands a good chance of being a weekly spark plug for the offense.

“I’d like to see an ever-increasing role with Fred,” said running backs coach Eric Studesville. “He’s proven that he’s dependable and productive in everything that we’ve asked him to do. So we’re going to do it, get him more touches and find more ways to get him in the game.”

Yes, even Brett Favre realizes you're sick of hearing about him.
"I know people are fed up with it, for whatever reason. That's fine," Favre said. "But it's my life, and I'm trying to figure out what to do."

The future Vikings quarterback made his comments to a local TV crew the other day after throwing passes to high school receivers in Hattiesburg, Miss., and they were picked up by the much-interested St. Paul (Minn.) Pioneer Press.

"I threw the ball OK, but OK is not good enough for the National Football League. At least it's not for me," Favre said. "So it's got to get better."

Raiders TE Zach Miller. Despite playing in the league's worst passing offense, Miller had 56 catches in 2008, his second season, as QB Jamarcus Russell's most reliable target. Miller has sure hands, runs great routes and has a knack for getting open against any kind of coverage.

Coach Tom Cable says: " He's really become a good football player, and he becomes more and more complete as the weeks go by. It's just important, though, that we put people around him that can add to that. "

Dolphins TE Anthony Fasano. A year after Bill Parcells brought him to Miami, Fasano, entering his fourth season, will share time with David Martin and Joey Haynos. But Fasano has the size and hands to make the leap from decent to great, especially considering the limited star power in Miami's receiving corps.

Coach Tony Sparano says: "I've seen Anthony doing things that, quite honestly, I never thought Anthony was going to get to. Anthony's really come a long way from the guy that I knew in Dallas."

Chiefs TE Brad Cottam. The Chiefs drafted Cottam in 2008 with the idea he'd replace Tony Gonzalez, who was traded to the Falcons in the offseason. Cottam's blocking ability is more advanced than his receiving skills—he'll never be Gonzalez's equal as a pass catcher—but could develop into a decent red zone target.

Cottam says: "I'm a completely different player than (Gonzalez) . I'd like to think I'll be able to take some things from his game. But I'm not going to worry about trying to keep up with everything he was able to do."

Colts WR Anthony Gonzalez. Consider this a perfect storm scenario for Gonzalez. Future Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison is gone, and Gonzalez, who is entering his third season, is an expert route runner with good speed and the flexibility to line up wide or in the slot.

Gonzalez says: "I think people have put some assumptions into what's going to happen with this role. I'm not taking anything for granted, I can tell you that. I'm going to work as hard as I ever have and try to earn whatever extra reps I happen to get."

Broncos RB Knowshon Moreno. Moreno has the competitiveness, toughness and smarts to contribute as a rookie in new coach Josh McDaniels' complicated offensive scheme. Moreno can run between the tackles or take a pitch on the outside, and he's not afraid to initiate contact.

McDaniels says: "He's very elusive and can do a lot of things in every phase of our game— running, passing, blocking. And that will allow him to be on the field as much as he can be."

Bills QB Trent Edwards. Heading into his third season, it's time for Edwards—an accurate passer who makes good decisions—to translate his potential to production. He has a solid grasp of the offensive system and an improved supporting cast .
Edwards says: " (Pressure is) part of the quarterback position, and it might get a little more attention than the other positions get. I'm excited for it, I'm going to embrace it, and I'm hoping for a big year. And that's what we're doing right now —preparing for a big year."

The Bills third receiver gig behind Terrell Owens and Lee Evans seems basically up for grabs, with former No. 2 man Josh Reed, Roscoe Parrish, James Hardy (who may not yet be recovered from his torn ACL) and Steve Johnson vying for playing time. If the Bills follow through on their threat to run a spread offense, one or more of these guys could wind up being relevant in deeper fantasy leagues.

Though Buffalo drafted tight end Shawn Nelson in April's draft, the Bills have pretty much ruled out starting him at the position to begin the year. Instead, they're investing time having Nelson run some wideout routes, so we may see him on some third downs in the spread. Nelson isn't much of a blocker yet, so Derek Schouman is expected to be the starter to begin the year, with Derek Fine potentially pushing him. Nelson would be the only guy to consider drafting here, and even then, only in a deep league.

Bills RB Marshawn Lynch will begin the year on suspension because of gun-related charges; as of this writing, it was unclear whether the commissioner's office would reduce Lynch's three-game penalty. For as many as three weeks, then, the starting running back job will come down to some combination of Fred Jackson and Dominic Rhodes. Whichever man looks strongest in camp figures to start and potentially dominate carries, conceivably making him a temporary fantasy option in a lot of leagues.

WR Donnie Avery. The Rams' No. 1 receiver by default after an offseason of change in St. Louis, Avery has the speed to be a game-breaker. Heading into his second season, he has worked hard to improve his hands and route running. The new West Coast scheme should maximize his skills.

S James Butler says: " He's doing a good job of getting a grasp of the offense and adjusting to it. I think he's going to make a lot of plays, not only because he's athletic and fast but also because he's got the IQ."

Eagles WR Desean Jackson. The Eagles want to get more vertical on offense, and the speedy Jackson is key to that plan. He led the team with 62 receptions as a rookie last year, but, more important , he earned the trust of QB Donovan Mcnabb.

Coach Andy Reid says: "He's playing faster. He knows what he's doing. I'm comparing it to when he came to this camp the first time. It was all new to him, so he wasn't moving quite as confidently or as fast as he is now."

Saints RB Pierre Thomas. He ran for 475 yards and scored nine total touchdowns in the final six games of his third season. This offseason Thomas, who will replace Deuce Mcallister as Reggie Bush's partner in the backfield, has been bulking up to become a more effective inside runner and prepare for the pounding of a full schedule.

Thomas says: "I tell people I want the same thing Deuce and Reggie had in '06 (when the Saints made it to the NFC title game), so me and Reggie can do the same things."

Vikings WR/KR Percy Harvin. Harvin's versatility, quick acceleration and excellent athleticism will make him a dynamic playmaker as a rookie. He's able to juke defenders and get loose for big plays using his great vision, which helps him see holes and follow blocks.

Harvin says: "I feel like I can do and play multiple positions, so wherever the coach seems to think I fit best, that's what I will do. I do have an advantage coming in here just because I did play different positions at Florida."

Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew. A big-framed kid (6-6, 260) with natural ability, Pettigrew, who loves to block, will be able to handle the bigger defensive ends one-on-one. Even as a rookie, he'll be a matchup nightmare. Plus, he's already connecting with rookie QB Matthew Stafford on the field.
Coach Jim Schwartz says: "He's the best tight end to come out in the last four or five years. He can block, and although he might not have great speed, he's very smooth and he can get downfield. And he's a huge, huge target."

Bears TE Greg Olsen. He led the Bears with five touchdown receptions in his second season, and now he has tight end-friendly QB Jay Cutler throwing passes. With Olsen's ability to stretch the field, he could easily top 70 catches and join the NFC elite at the position.

Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell became the first member of Brad Childress' coaching staff to personally evaluate Brett Favre after shoulder surgery when he traveled to Hattiesburg, Miss., last week to watch the retired quarterback perform in a rigorous throwing session that included an estimated 100 passes, sources said.

According to those same sources, at least one of whom has communicated directly with the quarterback, Favre thought his performance that day with the Oak Grove High School team was encouraging. But Favre also warned the Vikings representatives that he might be forced to delay a decision on whether to play until just before the team opens training camp on July 29 in Mankato, Minn.

When asked what he likes about Jaguars 7th round pick, WR Tiquan Underwood, Jaguars Senior Editor Vic Ketchman responded:

Vic: I like his size and speed. Quite frankly, I’m astonished that a guy with his size and speed lasted into the seventh round. I know Kenny Britt became the go-to guy at Rutgers last year, but all you have to do is put on the tape from the previous season, when Underwood had a big year, to see what the guy can do. I like all three of the Jaguars’ rookie wide receivers, but I’m looking for a home run kind of guy and I think Underwood has the potential to be that guy. I like his upside. If I’m wrong about him, I’ll admit it, but I see no reason not to express my excitement for what I saw of Underwood in OTAs. Can he do it with the pads on? That’s the question that has to be answered now. Pads on is a whole different ballgame.

The plan for the 2009 season is for the Packers to run the ball more frequently. At least that’s what offensive coordinator Joe Philbin is hoping.

Philbin was talking recently about his expectation that Ryan Grant would get the bulk of the carries this season. But then he added that if the Packers can run more often, then other backs on the team, such as Brandon Jackson, could see their share of carries go up as well.

"Boy I'd love to see us run 32-34 times a game where we need to split up the carries a little better," said Philbin. "We haven’t been that type of a team consistently. We’ve had spurts where we ran it that much but we need to get it up in the 30s on a consistent basis. When that happens the way the game unfolds dictates that you balance it out a little better. When you’re running it 24 times, it’s a little different."

NFC NORTH TIGHT ENDS -- Two of the four teams in the NFC North could have new starting tight ends this season.

Detroit has been enamored with rookie first-round pick Brandon Pettigrew and all indications are he will be the Lions' opening-day starter. It's going to be interesting to see how he does compared to the Jeremy Maclin, the player the Eagles selected one pick earlier.

Green Bay has a battle in store with second-year man Jermichael Finley, who this space mentioned a few weeks back, ready to supplant veteran Donald Lee as another target for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

JERRY ON BRETT -- Hall of Fame WR Jerry Rice is on the record as not being behind Brett Favre's return to play for the Minnesota Vikings.

"(This) could really backfire," Rice told Chip Scoggins of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Rice pointed out that, if Favre is not healthy or ineffective, the Vikings will have a real problem on their hands.

"You have to look at the scenario that happened in New York," Rice said. "If he pretty much distances himself completely from the players, then all of a sudden you're going to divide the players because a lot of the players are going to say, 'Hey, Tarvaris Jackson should be in here or Sage (Rosenfels).' You don't want this to divide the team."

COMING BACK? -- Running back Shaun Alexander, who not that long ago was the league MVP, but played in just four games for Washington last season before being released, wants back in the league.

So far he's had no takers and with so many out of work running backs on the market it might stay that way.

Tight end L.J. Smith was one of three players at his position who missed time with injuries during the Baltimore Ravens minicamps and OTAs.

Smith, who signed a one-year deal with the Ravens as a free agent, has battled nagging injuries from his days at Rutgers and all through his time with the Eagles.

The feeling here is, and always was, if he could ever just play a completely healthy season he would be the player the Eagles felt they drafted in the second round.

HC Tony Dungy has retired, WR Marvin Harrison is no longer with the Colts and Tom Moore, QB Peyton Manning's only OC since his rookie year, will have a reduced, as-yet unspecified role as a consultant.

With that trio surrounding Manning, the Colts have won 12 or more games for an NFL-record seven consecutive years.

"Even though Tony Dungy won't be on the sideline, I feel like the winning atmosphere and the environment he created in our building will carry through," Manning said Friday. "Coach Caldwell assured me he's got a good plan. Hopefully August 2 we'll be able to hit the ground running."

Lions rookie running back Aaron Brown showed off some nice, explosive runs to the outside during minicamp, which could bolster his chances to make the team as a sixth-round pick from Texas Christian.

"Definitely speed, explosion," Brown said of his strengths. "I have a tendency just to get away from players, kind of hard to hit. I'm more of a slasher, not really cut here and jump here. I'm more of a one, two and I'm gone, and my hands are pretty solid, and my overall speed is also a plus."

One thing Brown has learned is that, unlike his college days, the NFL requires more than speed and raw talent.

"In college, really, I outran a lot of people," he said. "Just me having to set people up now, I didn't really have to do that in college. I could just outrun a lot of people and just get around the corner and go for a long run.

"I'm a little smarter, a little bit more patient. In college I was really impatient. I would just run."

Brown said he has worked on learning to exploit matchups against the defense and is becoming comfortable in the zone scheme.

This week could be pivotal in determining Joshua Cribbs’ future with the Browns.

According to a report on NFL.com, Cribbs’ agents have a meeting scheduled with general manager George Kokinis and coach Eric Mangini. If Cribbs doesn’t get a new contract, he will not play a game for the Browns this season, a person with knowledge of the situation told NFL.com.

J.R. Rickert, one of Cribbs’ agents, declined to comment when reached Saturday.

If Cribbs, a standout special teamer and backup receiver, is serious about holding out, demanding a trade or leaving training camp after reporting, he would be reversing his stance for the second time this offseason. Cribbs skipped the beginning of “voluntary” minicamps in the hope of getting a new contract, then returned to practice a week later without any compromise from the Browns.

When asked who is the most likely Giant to have a breakout season, defensive lineman Chris Canty responded, "One of the rookies has really stood out: Hakeem Nicks. He's always making plays in the vertical passing game in practice. He's just been really impressive the way he's handled everything in a professional manner. I'm just impressed overall with him."

With the July 15 deadline to sign Shayne Graham to a long-term deal, it appears as if the team and kicker remain far apart.

“The Bengals put the franchise tag on Shayne for the 2009 season acknowledging that he is a vital part of the team. However, we disagree as to his long term value,” said Graham’s agent, Rob Roche. “Shayne has been an 87.4 percent kicker for the Bengals, and he is committed to maintaining his excellent kicking for them this upcoming season. We remain open to continue further discussions with the Bengals for a long term deal.”

For being tagged, Graham will earn $2.483 million this season should both parties not reach an agreement by 4 p.m. on Wednesday. Negotiations then can not resume until the end of the regular season.