ConcreteBoard

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on February 14, 2006, 11:24:35 AM
I'm not going to read that list.

QuoteFOXSports.com has learned that the Titans and Pro Bowl DE Kyle Vanden Bosch are nearing a four-year contract that will keep the pass rushing maven in Nashville rather than test the free agent waters.
According to sources the contract calls for Vanden Bosch to receive about $15 million in guaranteed money. The former Arizona Cardinal is revered for his non-stop motor and pass rush savvy. He's also underrated against the run and re-signing him was a major step for the rebuilding Titans.

Vanden Bosch grabbed quarterbacks 12 ½ times this season for sacks and is in line for a major raise from the $540,000 he made in salary in 2006.

During this week's Pro Bowl he stood out by sacking Matt Hasselback and Michael Vick and had NFC players talking after the game about his intensity in the pass rush.

He was slated to become an unrestricted free agent. The deal has not yet been completed but those close to Vanden Bosch said it should be finalized within the next 24 to 48 hours.

Calls to Titans GM Floyd Reese have not been returned

Quote from: Philly Forever on February 16, 2006, 02:31:12 AM
That probably means we go DE in the draft.

Dammit, I really don't want to be stuck with Cole starting.

QuoteChiefs, Dolphins eyeing Law
<Feb. 16> With Law apparently finished in New York, the Chiefs and new coach Herm Edwards are expected to show interest, the Kansas City Star reports.
Law visited the Chiefs during the free-agency period last year, but Kansas City ended up signing Miami cornerback Patrick Surtain. The Chiefs will have to clear some space under the NFL cap and are expected to approach several players about restructuring their contracts to create cap space.

The 32-year old wants to play for a Super Bowl contender, and suggested the Dolphins might fit that description, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.

"There are a lot of teams interested," Law told the Kansas City Star. "Miami is talking about getting Steve McNair down there, and if the Dolphins get a quarterback, they're a real contender for the Super Bowl. That's what it's all about for me right now. I need to win another title."

Law is seeking "around $10 million" in guaranteed bonus money. In his one season with the Jets, he led the NFL in interceptions with 10 (a career high) and earned his fifth Pro Bowl berth.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on February 16, 2006, 08:22:13 AM

Quote from: Philly Forever on February 16, 2006, 02:31:12 AM
That probably means we go DE in the draft.

Dammit, I really don't want to be stuck with Cole starting.

Why not?

It doesn't really matter who starts anyways. They'll all get time in the rotation. And I doubt they go after a high priced guy. It'll be a role player like Aaron Kampman and a drafted guy, I bet.

And I was shocked that KVB got $15M guaranteed too. All that does is drive up the market. :boo

QuoteBroncos | Coleman decides to retire
Fri, 17 Feb 2006 05:49:32 -0800

Bill Williamson, of the Denver Post, reports Denver Broncos DE Marco Coleman has decided to retire from the NFL after a 14-year career. He played the past two seasons with the Broncos.

Quote from: Sgt PSN on February 21, 2006, 08:07:15 PM
Jets put the tag on Abraham. (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2338398)

Quote from: phattymatty on February 22, 2006, 12:34:02 PM
taterskins give Mark Brunell his last rites.

Quote from: FFatPatt on February 22, 2006, 12:40:22 PM
I'm the hall monitor today.

Related Pic (http://www.jokegateway.co.uk/uploads/i_o/ND/Ratti3/ND_hall_monitor.jpg)

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2006 NFL Free Agents:
Linebackers
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. Julian Peterson, OLB, San Francisco [83 tkls, 3 sacks]

Peterson is clearly the cream of this year's linebacking crop, despite continuing worries about his durability. Over the years, he has played OLB, ILB, DE, SS and CB, demonstrating the superior athleticism that separates superstars from the rest of the league. Were it not for nagging injuries, Peterson would have been locked up as the team's cornerstone defensive player long ago. However, with the Niners having numerous problems elsewhere, they are sure to be hesitant to tie up so much money in a risky player.

Peterson has that rare first step that gets him off the line immediately, and makes him a top notch pass rusher. What puts him into the elite group of linebackers is that he isnt pigeon-holed as either a "cover guy" or a "pass rusher". With his speed, Peterson can chase down any ball carrier, and can even stretch out into coverage on passing downs. If he can stay healthy, he will be well worth the money he will command, and could take a contender to the next level.

GOOD FITS: Miami, NY Giants, Houston, Oakland, Detroit, Arizona, Baltimore, Chicago, San Francisco

EARLY PICK: Peterson is more than an filler. He is likely to be pursued by teams that need an OLB, but also by teams looking to add another superstar to an already effective defense. Teams like Baltimore or Chicago, who don't need a superstar linebacker, may pursue Peterson with the idea of making a strong unit unstoppable. Teams like Houston, Arizona, Oakland and Detroit will all be anxious to put a difference maker on the defensive side of the football. Arizona is an up and coming team, where Peterson would become the best player on a good defense as well as a team leader. Arizona has a good group of youngsters in Lance Mitchell and Daryl Blackstock at the LB position, and they may prefer to stick with developing who they have. In the end, Miami, New York and the Niners appear to be the top destinations for a player of his calibur. No team is more linebacker hungry than the Giants, and Peterson would be the type of player who could take a good Giants team to the elite level. Meanwhile, Miami is coming off of a surprisingly good 9-7 campaign. Reuniting Peterson with his college coach, Nick Saban, makes alot of sense. He would immediately team with Zack Thomas and Channing Crowder to form one of the league's most imposing units. In the end, I believe the Niners will hold on to Peterson, with either the franchise tag or a long term deal. For all of the Reggie Bush talk this season, their real holes are at offensive line, wide receiver and pass rusher. Losing a player who could fill one of those roles would be a an egregious error.

2. Andra Davis, ILB, Cleveland [149 tackles] (Editors Note: Davis was resigned by Cleveland)

Although he lacks the talent of a Ray Lewis or Brian Urlacher, he plays a similar sideline-to-sideline style that would be welcome on any team. A gifted athlete in college, Davis slipped to the 5th round, and has made up for lost time by quickly becoming the top playmaker for the Browns. He is a smart player who has good instincts when pursuing ball carriers. With a 6'1, 250 lbs frame, Davis sheds blockers very well, and is able to maintain pursuit. His major weakness is in the passing game, where he struggles to keep up with quick tight ends or backs coming out of the backfield.

Davis is an unrestricted free agent whom the Browns will make every effort to sign. With a good deal of room under the cap, he doesn't have the kind of name recognition that will lead to the kind of bidding war that would keep the Browns from retaining him.

GOOD FITS: NY Giants, Indianapolis, Tennessee, Cleveland

EARLY PICK: As stated above, Cleveland has to be considered the leader in the race for Davis. I wouldn't be surprised if the Browns lock him up before the free agent period begins. If he does go to the open market, Tennessee is sure to go after him with all it has. Brad Kossell played the best he could for the Titans, but Davis would be a tremendous upgrade over the later rounder from North Texas.

3. Cato June, ILB, Indianapolis [102 tackles, 5 int, 2 TD]

Coming out of no where, Cato June went from unknown to potential Defensive Player of the Year. In his third year out of Michigan, June showed the complete skills any defensive coordinator would be happy to rely on on a weekly basis. Obviously, June solved his problems with coverage, as evidenced by his 5 interceptions and 2 touchdowns. A very good athlete, June's major knock ahd always been an inability to get proper depth in zone coverage. Not only did he improve in that area, but he also demonstrated the ability to be an effective man defender as well. While he did manage 102 tackles, he continues to have problems shedding larger blockers in pursuit. June excels in the proper scheme, and would likely have difficulty being the focal point of a younger, less talented defense.

Everyone wants to know where the Colts are going to spend their money. With Edgerring James, Reggie Wayne, and three linebackers about to hit the free agent market, someone has to go. After the season he had, you can be sure the Colts will make every effort to maintain the services of June.

GOOD FITS: Indianapolis, NY Giants, Detroit, Oakland, Tennessee

EARLY PICK: The Colts are sure to franchise James and sign Reggie Wayne, if they can. With three excellent linebackers all free agents, they will have to choose who stays and who is expendable. My guess is that June will be a priority this offseason, and will remain in Indy. If not, New York would be eager to bring him in with an equally talented OLB, while teams like Detroit and Oakland may see him as the cornerstone of a young defense going forward.

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4. Akin Ayodele, OLB, Jacksonville [72 tackles, 4 FF]

Very good athlete with tremendous size at the OLB spot. Ayodele has slowly been coming on the past few years, and is finally showing the talent that was promised. 6'2, 251 lbs, Ayodele is the type of player who, when he hits you, you stay hit. Shows great explosion and burst out of his stance, he blows up tight ends off the line, and wraps up well on ball carriers. His biggest problem has been a lack of wind, and coupled with mediocre pass coverage, he is limited to being a two-down player. Slightly limited in his hip movement, he can be beat by quick runners around the outside. However, given the opportunity to line up a ball carrier, he is lights out consistent.

GOOD FITS: Jacksonville, Miami, New Orleans, Oakland, Houston, Dallas

EARLY PICK: A Dallas native, there is no reason to think he wouldnt be interested in returning to the big D. With Dat Nguyen likely to retire, and Scott Fujita and Eric Ogbagu free agents, Ayodele would fit perfectly in the Tuna's scheme opposite the explosive DeMarcus Ware. Houston may also come calling if they dont believe Jason Babin can step up and take his place in the starting lineup. If not, a replacement for Shantee Orr may be on their list of priorities. Oakland and New Orleans will likely seek to bring in a player of his caliber, young and less expensive than the premier free agents. Jacksonville, however, does not lose much this year, and can likely afford to bring Ayodele back, even franchising him if need be.

5. Will Witherspoon, OLB, Carolina [80 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 2 int]

The key to Witherspoon is that he is playing at an exceptional level, while being young enough to continue to improve. Very active from the outside, Witherspoon can move through blockers to get to the ball carrier, arriving often at full speed. He is a ball hawk, looking for the turnover when he meets the football. He has very good sideline-to-sideline speed, and consistently makes the play in the open field. On a team like Carolina, he is lucky to see alot of runners get through the front line, and is left to fight Dan Morgan and Mike Minter for tackles, meaning that his total of 80 on the season is no small feat. Witherspoon would fit very well on a young defense that focuses versitile, speedy linebackers who look to force turnovers.

GOOD FITS: Miami, Chicago, Houston, Arizona, New Orleans, Dallas, Oakland

EARLY PICK: Can Carolina afford to let Witherspoon walk? There is little to indicate that they feel he is irreplacable, though he has become an integral part of their top three defense, and losing him would definitely create a hole. With greater needs, especiall at running back, it is likely that the Panthers will choose to spend their money elsewhere. It is unlikely they would franchise Witherspoon, and pay top dollar for a second tier linebacker. It is more likely that a struggling team will look to overspend for a player like Witherspoon, who still has alot of room to grow. Chicago would be a very intersting choice, as Witherspoon plays similar to Lance Briggs, and would likely excel in the Bears' defensive scheme. A Texas native, he would also look good in Houston, where he would fit well with a young team, or Dallas, where they would be able to continue to get younger on defense. Teams like New Orleans, Oakland and Arizona continue to be in the mix for every young, explosive linebacker.

OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:

Antwan Peek, OLB, Houston (RFA): The ex-Cincinnati Bearcat has a ton of potential, and finally got a look in Houston this season. It is likely that any term sheet he signs will be affordable, and quickly matched. Has the look of becoming everything Jason Babin was supposed to.

Ben Taylor, OLB, Cleveland: Very smart player who recognizes opposing schemes nad positions himself well to make the play. Put together 110 tackles while playing alongside all everything linebacker Andra Davis. Would fit well with a team looking to supplement an existing solid corps of linebackers.

Gary Brackett, OLB, Indianapolis: Another potential casuality as the Colts are stuck with numerous quality players about to become free agents. If Reggie Wayne walks, the Colts are sure to keep June and Brackett on board as the core of an elite defensive unit. If they decide to hold on to Wayne, June and James, there is likely to be little remaining for the solid Brackett (127 tackles, 3int). A good tackler in space, Brackett isnt spectacular, but he is consitent, and would fit good with a team like the Giants, Dolphins or Lions.

Nate Webster, OLB, Cincinnati: After losing his job to rookie Odell Thurman, Webster now looks to be expendable for the Bengals. Still young and athletic enough to start, Webster is likely to catch on somewhere where he will have an opportunity to start. Would be a great fit in New Orleans, Detroit, Arizona or Oakland.

Ronald McKinnon, ILB, New Orleans: The consumate pro. A great pass defender, McKinnon has also been a tackling machine over the years. Stuck in a bad situation in New Orleans, McKinnon was called upon to be the focal point of the defense. McKinnon would be better served along side other veterans, on a playoff calibur team, where he would likely put up numbers to rival Cato June's. That being said, a team like Indianapolis would be a perfect fit, as they need a solid veteran replacement should they lose any linebackers, and McKinnon's skill set would be ideal for the Colts' scheme. If not, the Giants are likely to come calling, or perhaps Philadelphia or Detroit.

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2006 NFL Free Agents:
Defensive Line
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. John Abraham, DE, New York Jets [58 tkls, 11.0 sacks, 6 FF]

One of the elite pass rushers in the league, Abraham has accumulated 53.5 sacks in his six year career. Despite gaudy sack numbers, Abraham has also shown excellent skill as a run stopper, with the speed to shut off the outside route for speedy runners. At 258 lbs, Abraham lacks the ideal size for an end, but any more size would limit his speed, which is his real strength. His first step is quick enough to beat almost any lineman, but Abraham can get repetitious in his moves, and needs to do a better job of mixing up his looks. Only 27, any team acquiring Abraham would be able to plug in an elite pass rusher for the next 5 years.

GOOD FITS: New York Jets, Minnesota, Washington, San Francisco

EARLY PICK: Abraham has been franchised repeatedly, and this year will likely be no different. With new head coach Eric Mangini, defense will again be a priority in New York, and Abraham is one of the team's cornerstones. If the Jets allow him to walk, it will take a free spender looking to upgrade significantly to lure him away. Minnesota would be a great fit where they are desparate to revamp their identity, and money will not be an object. Meanwhile, Washington has a fantastic defense, which only lacks a premier pass rusher. Expect a player like Abraham to provoke Dan Snyder into opening the pocket book.

2. Darren Howard, DE, New Orleans [33 tkls, 4.0 sacks, 2 FF]

Howard has been a bit of an enigma during his 6 years in the league. One year, he looks like the next premier pass rusher in the game. The next year he struggles to play a full season. Howard has had injury problems hte pas three years, so any team pursuing him will have to factor that in. Howard has been franchised, as well as shopped, in the past. After a year of turmoil and the hiring of an offensive minded HC, look for hte Saints to finally cut ties with Howard. He is a great athlete for his size, and has shown the ability to rush the passer consistently in the past. He is also a load, and could move to DT if needed with his 275 lbs frame. However, he is susceptible to double teams, and has trouble adjusting once he turns the corner. Still 29, if he can stay healthy he would be worth the risk. Could be had for good value with an incentive-laden deal.

GOOD FITS: OAK, ARIZ, DET, CLEV, CINCY

EARLY PICK: Oakland seems like the perfect fit. He is still young, with explosive athletic ability. He would come cheaper than in years past, though you can expect a team like the Raiders to still overpay. After hitting it big with Derrick Burgess last season, Howard could be the perfect bookend for the woeful Raiders. If not Oakland, a young team like Cincy or Arizona may snatch up Howard for a reasonable price.

3. Larry Tripplett, DT, Indianapolis [30 tkls, 4.0 sacks]

Tripplett may seem like an odd pick this high, but considering the value he may be had for, he could be the perfect fit on a contender looking to upgrade the DT position. Tripplett has good size, and the ability to shed double teams on a consistent basis. What he lacks in intensity, he makes up for with intelligence. He reads block schemes well, and anticipates plays rather than reacting to them. If he were to add strength in the weight room, he could move into the upper tier of tackles.

GOOD FITS: SEA, BUFF, IND, GB

EARLY PICK: Another Colt free agent, the first question becomes: who do they keep? If Tripplett is amongst the lucky, then expect him to resign with Indy. However, it is likely Indy will deem him replaceable, and he will get a quality offer elsewhere. Seattle has serviceable lineman, but bringing home the former UW star would seem like the perfect fit. Holes in Green Bay and Buffalo may lead Tripplett to head to one of those two rebuilding teams where money will be spent a bit more recklessly.

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4. Kyle Vanden Bosch, DE, Tennessee [66 tkls, 13.0 sacks, 4 FF]

After three years as a complimentary player in Arizona, Vanden Bosch found a home starting for the rebuilding Titans. Only 27, it appears that he has learned how to harness his gambling tendencies, and maintain control at the line of scrimmage. At 278 lbs, he possess excellent size for an end, but also has great overall athleticism. One on one, he has the ability to defeat similar sized lineman. When engulfed by larger players, or double teamed, he has a tendency to play high and get pushed around. When his technique is sound, he brings great pressure, and has plenty of time to develop even further.

GOOD FITS: TENN, MINN, DET, CLEV

EARLY PICK: vanden Bosch may get attention elsewhere, but he has found a home in Tennessee and will likely sign before the free agent period begins.
5. Orpheus Roye, DT, Cleveland [88 tkls, 3.0 sacks, 4 PD]

Roye quietly had one of the better seasons by a lineman this past season. Traditionally, tackles are hard to come by from the interior, but Roye managed an amazing 88, while also defending 4 passes in zone blitz coverage. At 6-4, 305, Roye is built for the interior, but is agile enough to move along the line. Much like a Tommie Harris, Roye doesn't get alot of sacks, but does create alot of pressure. At age 32, he would be a perfect addition to a contender looking to solidify its interior defense with a veteran presence.

GOOD FITS: NYG, BALT

EARLY PICK: Roye is likely to get alot of attention, but a veteran team, with super bowl potential, makes the most sense for him. The Giants spent this past season weak on the defensive line, and may lose one of those players. Roye would be the ideal player to take pressure off of superior pass rushers Omenyioura and Strahan. Meanwhile, Baltimore could use an upgrade on the line, especially if Anthony Weaver were to leave.

OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:

Chris Hovan, DT, Tampa Bay: Despite 6 years in the league, Hovan is still only 27 years old. He has had alot of personal problems, but played solidly in Tampa Bay this year without any problems. He may be on the verge of resdiscovering himself as an elite tackle, if he can get into a good situation. Hovan may resign in Tampa, but a place like Philadelphia or the Giants would be a good situation. However, signing with St Louis or Oakland seems more likely, and less ideal for his well being.

Damione Lewis & Ryan Pickett, DT, St Louis: With Jimmy Kennedy waiting in the wings, its likely one of these two will be let go. Both are very young and talented, but have yet to break through and display the production that was expected of them. Young teams like Green Bay, New Orleans, Arizona, Detroit and Oakland may take a look at these guys, who could provide high reward for their risk.

Anthony Weaver, DE, Baltimore: At 6'3, 280, Weaver can play inside or on the end. As an end, Weaver gets solid penetration by overpowering smaller lineman. Inside, he can maintain a blocker long enough to peel off and make plays. Baltiore will likely keep the 25 year old on board at an affordable price, where he should develop into an above average lineman.

Ryan Denney, DE, Buffalo: The perfect example of a player who gets more out of his talent than others. Denney is an average athlete, but extremely tough and aggressive. Doesnt get to the quarterback very often, but is very effective against the run. Will likely remain in Buffalo, but might fit well opposite an elite pass rusher elsewhere.

Kimo Von Oelhoffen, DT, Pittsburgh: The perfect cog in a top notch defense, von Oelhoffen is the type of player who acts as the glue between players. He may not get the stats, but without him, no one else would. At age 34, he is likely to resign with Pitt and finish out his career tutoring a midround pick. One place he won't be next season is Cincinnati.

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2006 NFL Free Agents:
Cornerbacks and Safeties
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. Charles Woodson, Oakland [31 tackles, 1 INT]

It is no secret that Woodson has worn out his welcome in Oakland, and will be hitting the free agent market as early as he can. The primary reason stated by Oakland management will be that Woodson's skills have eroded to the point that he is no longer worth the money it will cost to keep him. While his on the field performance has certainly slipped over the years (culminating this season with a trip to the IR for a broken right leg) the real drain on Woodson's performance is better attributed to a lack of desire, and less to a lack of talent. Don't be fooled by the claims coming out of the East Bay, Woodson still has the ability to be a number one corner. What is missing is something to ignite the fire within him, something to push him to return to that elite level. An opportunity to play for a winner again, or to return to his midwest roots, may be the impetus Woodson needs to renew his career.

Already 29, teams should be wary of giving him a long term deal, however, they should not be afraid to insert him into their starting lineup. At 6'1, 200 lbs, Woodson is big and physical, with the ability to chuck receivers off the line before they can get into their routes. Although he lacks the closing speed of the game's premier corners, he is still quick enough to make up ground on most receivers. A step below elite players like Champ Bailey and Chris McAlister, Woodson still has the talent to compete with almost any corner in the game.

GOOD FITS: Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, New England, Kansas City, Arizona, New York Jets, Dallas

EARLY PICK: The Lions would make sense for the former Wolverine, as he could team with another free agent signing, Dre Bly, to form the division's second best corner duo. However, shaky management and lack of a defensive mindset may steer Woodson elsewhere. Teams like Pittsburgh and Kansas City would be ideal as they are already winners, a player or two away from being serious Super Bowl contenders. With Herm Edwards finally going to KC, both teams have defensive minded coaches who play a physical style. However, Cleveland and New England seem the best fits for Woodson. A native of Ohio, a return to his home state would give him the opportunity to work with Romeo Crennel, and to be the main fixture on a young, up and coming team. In addition, a team like the Browns is likely to be willing to over pay for Woodson, despite his injuries. If Woodson can sacrifice an immediate payday, then New England makes the most sense. Bill Belichik has a history of taking chances on players who wore out their welcome elsewhere (see: Corey Dillon, David Terrell, Rodney Harrison). Not all have worked out, but a player's personal history has never been a deterrant. After a hard fought season that saw the loss of numerous defensive players to injury, a physical corner like Woodson would fit in nicely in New England, and help return the Patriots to the top of the AFC.

2. Nate Clements, BUFF [102 tackles, 2 INT]

Clements has always been a good fit in Buffalo, and this season he did a solid job replacing Antoine Winfield as the team's primary corner. The 2 interceptions are not indicative of Clements' cover ability, as his 102 tackles reflect the amount of time he spent bringing down ball carriers who slipped through the pourous Buffalo run defense. Bigger than one might think, Clements was a very physical presence, forcing three fumbles, while remaining a ball hawk in the secondary, defending 13 passes.

Yet, for all of his statistical accomplishments, Clements failed to show the flare and athletic superiority of the game's elite corners. That, however, hasn't stopped him and his agent from seeking to make Clements the NFL's highest paid corner. Although it is highly unlikely he will be paid more than the current leader in salary, Champ Bailey, it is guaranteed that his asking price will take him out of Buffalo. An above average defender, and only 26 years old, Clements would be a tremendous loss to the Bills. However, numbers like 50-60 million dollars will be too much for a team that is more than a player away from solving their problems. Look for Clements to bolt to the highest bidder, with little regard for intangibles such as a winning team or a defensive system that plays to his strengths (see: Duane Starks, Arizona).

GOOD FITS: Cleveland, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Arizona, New York Jets, St Louis

EARLY PICK: A lot of familiar names pop up, and that is to be expected. However, Clements, while younger and healthier than Woodson, will also be pricier. Teams like Cincy and Cleveland will most likely be the first to contact the Ohio native and former Buckeye, with Cincy bowing out for lack of need and cap room. The Jets will be reluctant to overpay when they have so many other holes to fill, while Arizona is stil reeling from the last free agent they signed to play cornerback. In the end, it will come down to whether or not Buffalo franchises Clements. If they do, they are likely to have a locker room cancer for the entire year. Assuming they are scared off by that prospect, expect teams like St Louis, Houston and Pittsburgh to get into a bidding war for his services.

3. Adam Archuleta, St Louis [70 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 1 INT]

For years Archuleta has been known as a workout freak, but for all of his physical gifts, he has failed to become the dominant player many envisioned when he was a first round pick in 2001. At 223 lbs, with excellent speed, Archuleta was at his best in Lovie Smith's scheme, focusing more on attacking the ball, and less on maintaining his positioning. Under new Def Coordinator Joe Vitt, more focus was put on the zone, and Archuleta was left in open space while less talented players attempted to make plays across the field. Archuleta needs the ability to freelance, and a change of scenery would do him so good. The only real worry is that his aggressive style will get him into injury trouble, a problem that struck at the end of 2005 when he sat out the final game with a concussion. However, that fear should be assuaged by the knowledge that Archuleta is a true warrior, and plays to the maximum of his ability at all times. There is little risk he will coast through a long term contract like so many players before him.

GOOD FITS: Chicago, Minnesota, Cleveland, Oakland, Arizona, NY Giants

EARLY PICK: Cleveland and Arizona are going to be in on every blue chip free agent, as they are so far under the cap. However, Archuleta is likely to look for two things: (a) a good system, and (b) a winner. While Minnesota would be a good fit with their questions as to whether or not Corey Chavous and Brian Williams will be back, I like Chicago as a sleeper to get Archuleta at a slight discount. When Mike Brown and Chris Harris went down late in the year, backups Mike Green and Todd Johnson were exposed for their limitations. While Harris was a revelation as a rookie, the chance to upgrade with Archuleta would be too much to pass up. A former Lovie Smith disciple, Archuleta is a smaller version of Urlacher who would team with the Defensive Player of the Year to send more than one ball carrier to the IR next season.

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4. Will Allen, CB, New York Giants [70 tackles, 0 INT]

If your team is looking for a cornerback, and they can't break the bank, then keep a close eye on this Syracuse alum when he matches up with Steve Smith in the first round of the playoffs. Listed at 5'10, 196, Allen plays bigger than he looks. Physical off the line of scrimmage, he has the requisite speed to keep up with a majority of the league's number one wideouts. His lack of interceptions this season are more a result of teams wanting to take a shot at rookie Corey Webster on the other side of the field. A former first rounder, Allen has been a mainstay in the Giants' secondary from day one. A consumate professional, he is consistent, and makes few mistakes over the course of a game. After being more of a gambler early on in his career, he has settled into the role of the team's primary corner, spending most of his time focused on minimizing the effect of the other team's star wideout. He would make a solid addition to any team looking for more consistent play on the outside.

GOOD FITS: Pittsburgh, Dallas, Denver, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Minnesota, Arizona

EARLY PICK: The first five teams on the list are all excellent places for Allen to consider. Strong franchises looking for a solid if unspectacular veteran presence to play opposite younger players (Colclough, Newman, Marlin Jackson, Rashean Mathis), except for in Denver, where Allen would be among the league's top #2 corners. In Minnesota, he would help in the rebuilding effort alongside Winfield, while Arizona would certainly look to him to be the number one guy while they bring first rounder Antrel Rolle along. In the end, however, the Giants are likely to pay whatever it takes to hold on to Allen. Outside of the linebacker position, the Giants have very few needs, and are certain to spend whatever money they have on keeping their top players in Giant blue.

5. Tank Williams, S, Tennessee Titans [78 tackles, 1 INT]

Williams moves to the top of a solid if unspectacular group of remaining free agents. An excellent athlete, Williams has become a solid contributer over the years despite the deterioration of the Titans on the field. Not much of a ball hawk, Williams is an excellent tackler and reads plays well, always there to meet a ball carrier once he reaches his particular zone. The antithesis of Archuleta, Williams is more cereberal and caluclating, lining up big hits rather than seeking them out. He would be a calming presence in a young secondary, and less expensive than the flashier Archuleta, while offering the bonus of being three years younger.

GOOD FITS: Oakland, NY Jets, New Orleans

EARLY PICK: The Raiders currently have terrible cap problems, but releasing Woodson and some other veterans may give Al Davis enough room to bring in a player such as Williams. A former Stanford player, he would bring a veteran presence to an extremely young secondary. If the money isnt there, teams like the Jets or the Saints may prove to be a better alternative. New Orleans especially as Williams is a Gulfport, MS native. In the end, Tennessee will be as active in signing Williams as any other team, and will likely be in the bidding with Oakland and New Orleans to the very end.

OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:

Ricky Manning, CB, Carolina (RFA): A bit undersized, the addition of Ken Lucas has moved Manning to the nickel spot, where he is better suited. If a team is willing to pay him a starting corner's salary, the Panthers may be loathe to match it. However, the likelihood of that happening is not very high.

Lance Shulters, S, Miami: Not the player he once was, he would still offer a low cost alternative for a team seriously lacking at the free safety position. However, Miami would be in serious trouble if they lost Schulters, and will definitely try and sign him before March, unless they plan on drafting his replacement. Might be on Washington's radar.

Jamar Fletcher, CB, San Diego: A fomer first rounder, Fletcher wore out his welcome in Miami with inconsistent play. However, as a nickelback in San Diego, he found a home. Not likely to be as valuable as a starting cornerback, he would be a spectacular addition to a team that already has a solid set of corners, like Baltimore, Atlanta or Washington.

Jerry Azumah, CB, Chicago: Will only leave if he can get a starting job elsewhere, after losing his spot in Chicago to Pro Bowler Nathan Vasher. If he can't find a starting job, Chicago will certainly bring him back as a nickelback, unless they do sign Archuleta and move Chris Harris to the nickel spot. Either way, Azumah will likely be a third corner somewhere, while also assuming kick return duties, where the former running back has been spectacular in the past.

Deion Sanders, CB/S, Baltimore: He's old, a step slower, and still tackles with the ferocity of the "Fallen, and I cant get up" -lady. But he can still read a route better than anyone, and in his new spot as a safety, could excel in an opportunistic defense focused on creating turnovers. However, he remains a liability against the run, and is probably nothing more than a specialty player akin to a situational lefty in baseball.

Quote from: FFatPatt on February 22, 2006, 11:26:03 PM
Apparently, none of these players are fits in Philly.

Quote
Vikings put transition tag on cornerback Williams


EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) - The Minnesota Vikings named cornerback Brian Williams as their transition player on Thursday, which prevents him from becoming an unrestricted free agent.

By league rules, the Vikings must tender Williams a one-year qualifying offer at the average of the 10 highest-paid players at his position or 120 percent of his 2005 salary - whichever is greater. Williams will still be allowed to sign an offer sheet with another team, which Minnesota would have a week to match.

The NFL's deadline for designating franchise or transition players was Thursday.

Williams replaced an injured Fred Smoot, one of the Vikings' top free-agent signings last year, and started the last eight games. Williams played well enough to keep his spot when Smoot returned, relegating Smoot to the nickelback role.

A fourth-round draft pick out of North Carolina State in 2002, Williams has started 48 of a possible 66 games in his career. He had 11 passes defended and four interceptions last season.

QuoteSteve Corkran, of the Contra Costa Times, reports the Oakland Raiders exercised a clause in SS Derrick Gibson's contract that voids the remainder of Gibson's contract and makes him an unrestricted free agent. Gibson was scheduled to make $10 million this season; a figure the Raiders had no intention of honoring. Therefore, Gibson's only realistic shot of sticking with the Raiders for a sixth season was if he agreed to a restructured contract.

QuoteDarren Urban, of the East Valley Tribune, reports early indications from the contract talks between the Arizona Cardinals and free agent-to-be DT Russell Davis are that the sides remain far apart.

QuoteIndications are that the Eagles might be interested in soon-to-be Giants free-agent defensive tackle Kendrick Clancy, a solid starter with good quickness, but not a star...

QuoteDefensive lineman Raheem Brock signed a five-year contract that makes sure one of the Indianapolis Colts' most versatile defenders stays off the free agent market.

Brock, who tied a career-high with 6 1/2 sacks last season, was set to become an unrestricted free agent March 3.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on February 24, 2006, 09:37:47 PM
Link (http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/IND/9265347)

QuoteDefensive lineman Raheem Brock signed a five-year contract that makes sure one of the Indianapolis Colts' most versatile defenders stays off the free agent market.

Brock, who tied a career-high with 6 1/2 sacks last season, was set to become an unrestricted free agent March 3.

Quote
The Eagles and several other teams would be interested in courting pass rushing defensive end John Abraham, designated a franchise player by the New Jets. Abraham wants out of New York.
-- Delaware County Times

Quote
Colts hoping to win gamble on James
By Michael Marot, The Associated Press
INDIANAPOLIS — Colts president Bill Polian is gambling with Edgerrin James. Yes, he wants the two-time rushing champ carrying the ball for Indianapolis next season, but as James prepares for free agency, Polian is hoping salary-cap restrictions will help keep James from leaving.
Still, Polian believes there is a "50-50" chance of James coming back to Indy. Polian hopes to increase his odds this week when he calls Drew Rosenhaus, James' agent.

"I'm going to talk to Drew this week and see where Edge is right now, so I'd say it's probably 50-50," Polian said. "But that's an uneducated guess because I haven't spoken with Drew."

The top backs expected to become free agents aside from James are MVP Shaun Alexander and Jamal Lewis, who helped lead Baltimore to a Super Bowl title.

Polian could have kept James by using the franchise tag on him for the second straight year after receiver Reggie Wayne agreed to a new six-year, $39 million contract. The Colts also signed defensive lineman Raheem Brock to a five-year deal Friday.

Instead, Polian, decided against using the tag, which would have increased James' salary next season to more than $10 million.

That means James, a four-time Pro Bowl choice, would be one of the most attractive free agents available when the market opens Friday.

"Reggie was priority No. 1, and Raheem was priority No. 2," Polian said. "Now we can turn our attention to Edgerrin and David Thornton and see what we can do."

Thornton, a starting linebacker, is one of 11 unrestricted free agents on the Colts' roster.

James has said he believes his tenure in Indianapolis is over. At the Super Bowl, he said he hoped to play for a team that wanted him.

James holds Colts' franchise records for attempts (2,188), yards (9,226) and touchdowns (64). Indianapolis has reached the playoffs six times in James' seven seasons, missing the postseason in 2001 when James sat out the final 10 games after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

While they want him back, it appears the Colts are preparing for life without James.

Polian and coach Tony Dungy both acknowledged they would be looking closely at the top running backs in this year's draft for a possible replacement. Dungy also suggested signing a free agent was an option.

"There's a lot of guys that can run and do well," Dungy said. "But with so many checks at the line of scrimmage and not knowing what play you're going to run and still respond, that's what you don't know."

James has been a key blocker and receiver for two-time MVP Peyton Manning.

But James might not be the only Pro Bowl player leaving Indy.

Polian said it was likely Mike Vanderjagt, the NFL's most accurate kicker, would sign with another team. Vanderjagt missed a 46-yard field goal in January's playoff game against Pittsburgh that cost the Colts a chance to force overtime.

"He'll probably elect to go somewhere else, so that's probably a position we'll have to fill," Polian said.

He said Vanderjagt's replacement may already be on the roster. Indy recently re-signed kicker Dave Rayner, a sixth-round draft pick last year who was cut late in the season because of his poor kickoffs.

The other big names on the Colts' free agent list are Thornton and defensive tackle Larry Tripplett, a second-round pick in 2002 who had his best season as pro in 2005.

But most of the talk has been about James. Polian and Dungy hope their gamble pays off.

QuoteSources say Jets talking Abraham deals at combine
By Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com

Upset at having been tagged as a franchise player for a second straight year, New York Jets defensive end John Abraham told the New York Post over the weekend that he has "overstayed [his] welcome" with the club and that "it's time to move on."

Team officials apparently agree.

Multiple league sources said that the Jets have been offering Abraham in trade talks during the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis, and have discussed potential scenarios with a number of teams. It is believed that the talks have not moved to the substantive stage with any suitors and that a deal is not imminent, but that the Jets' intention remains to deal Abraham, probably for a package of draft choices.

Among the several teams with whom the Jets have spoken in recent days are the Washington taterskins and the Denver Broncos.

In a move that had been anticipated, the Jets last week designated Abraham a franchise player, essentially making him a one-year qualifying offer of $8.33 million, but also severely limiting his mobility in free agency. New York used the franchise tag a year ago, as well, to retain Abraham, and he missed all the offseason programs and training camp before signing the one-year deal, worth $6.66 million just days before the start of the season.

The team's rationale in using the franchise restriction this year, however, seems aimed at trying to fetch something in return for Abraham, who prefers a long-term contract. In a statement, new Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum said last week that applying the franchise tag to Abraham "speaks volumes about what type of player we feel he is." That has not kept the Jets, though, from speaking to other teams about the six-year veteran and three-time Pro Bowl performer.

It is not known what the Jets are seeking in return for Abraham, but any trade would certainly have to include a first-round draft choice. Abraham might be able to force the hand of the cap-strapped Jets by signing the qualifying offer, which would guarantee the money. The $8.33 million already counts against the New York cap for 2006, but guaranteeing the money might be a tough swallow for a club facing a major overhaul because of a debilitating cap overage.

Without specifically citing Abraham, Denver defensive coordinator Larry Coyer allowed at the combine that the Broncos hope to add a pass-rusher in the offseason. Despite statistically ranking No. 15 in total defense in 2005, the Broncos were 29th in defense versus the pass, and a big part of that was that Denver generated just 28 sacks, third fewest in the league. No Broncos defender had more than four sacks in 2005.

"I know this about [head coach] Mike Shanahan," said Coyer. "There will be a move."

Washington, which was said to be enamored with Abraham a year ago, also needs a consistent upfield pass-rush threat. Although the taterskins had 35 sacks in 2005, the lack of a pass rusher means that inventive defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has to work that much harder to create sack opportunities. The only taterskins defensive lineman with more than four sacks last season was end Phillip Daniels, but six of his eight sacks came in the final three games, including a four-sack performance.

One problem shared by both Denver and Washington is the state of their respective salary caps. Both teams are squeezed by the spending limit and, like other franchises around the league, are reluctant to make any kind of move until the NFL's collective bargaining issues are resolved. Plus, since he is not under contract, Abraham cannot be dealt until he either signs the one-year qualifying offer or a long-term contract.

Termed by Cleveland Browns coach Romeo Crennel as "head and shoulders" above any pass rusher available this offseason, Abraham certainly is a proven sack man. One of the Jets' four first-round selections in the 2000 draft, Abraham has consistently been among the top pass rushers in the NFL, when healthy. Limited to just 19 appearances in 2003-2004 because of injuries, Abraham played in all 16 games for the Jets in 2005, only the third time in six years he has played a full schedule.

He registered 67 tackles, 10½ sacks, six forced fumbles, one recovery and two passes defensed. For his career, the former South Carolina star has 328 tackles, 53½ sacks, 18 forced fumbles, five recoveries and eight pass deflections in 73 games. Players of his ilk don't often become available in the league, but the relationship between Abraham and Jets officials may have reached the point where a trade would be the best scenario for both parties.

Len Pasquarelli is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on February 27, 2006, 10:13:28 AM
Jets trade John Abraham to Denver for 29th overall pick.

Jets now have #4 and #29.

Jets trade #4 and #29 to Houston for the #1 pick.

QuoteJets trade John Abraham to Denver for 29th overall pick.

Jets now have #4 and #29.

Jets trade #4 and #29 to Houston for the #1 pick.

Quote from: Philly Forever on February 27, 2006, 05:29:38 PM
Willie McGinest might get cut. I'd take a look at him if he did. He's very good.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on February 27, 2006, 05:37:24 PM
Willie McGinest 1996 = good
Willie McGinest 2006 - not so good

QuoteBrowns | Roye agrees to terms
Mon, 27 Feb 2006 14:38:07 -0800

Tony Grossi, of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, reports the Cleveland Browns have agreed to terms on a new contract with DE Orpheus Roye. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but both sides previously had agreed on a three-year contract.

QuoteGiants | Alexander released
Tue, 28 Feb 2006 09:19:08 -0800

Michael Eisen, of Giants.com, reports the New York Giants have released S Brent Alexander.

QuoteTexans | M. Coleman released
Tue, 28 Feb 2006 17:00:36 -0800

HoustonTexans.com reports the Houston Texans have released FS Marcus Coleman from the team.

QuoteTexans | Walker to be released
Tue, 28 Feb 2006 21:37:40 -0800

John McClain, of the Houston Chronicle, reports the Houston Texans have informed DT Gary Walker he is being released. Walker hasn't been officially released because of the salary cap. He was told that if the NFL doesn't have a new collective bargaining agreement in place with the NFLPA that he won't be released until June 1. If they extend the CBA, Walker will be released immediately.

QuoteBills release DT Adams, save $3.5M in cap space
By John Clayton
ESPN.com

The Bills, who entered Wednesday $2 million under the $92 million salary cap, made their second major cut of the offseason by releasing former Pro Bowl defensive tackle Sam Adams.

Adams, 32, has been in the NFL for 12 seasons and has been with the Bills since 2003. His release saves the Bills $3.5 million of cap room. He was scheduled to make $3.5 million this season in what was his last season with the Bills.

He signed with Buffalo in 2003 and has been a starter most of his three seasons.

New general manager Marv Levy said the defense struggled last season because of the team's inability to keep defensive tackle Pat Williams the year before. Now, the defense grows even weaker in the middle with the release of Adams.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 01, 2006, 04:53:10 PM
Broncos cut DE Trevor Pryce. (ESPNEWS)

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 01, 2006, 04:57:36 PM
why are you comparing DE and C?

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 01, 2006, 05:00:41 PM
Not to mention that DE is a much bigger need than C right now.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 01, 2006, 05:00:41 PM
Not to mention that DE is a much bigger need than C right now.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 01, 2006, 05:29:24 PM
Didn't see him anywhere in the thread but the Bills cut Lawyer Milloy as well.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 01, 2006, 06:01:08 PM
Was Sam Madison cut?

QuoteThe Indianapolis Colts agreed Wednesday to a multiyear deal with free-agent linebacker Gary Brackett and offered new contracts to tight end Ben Utecht and offensive guard Ryan Lilja.

QuoteWho is this guy?

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 02, 2006, 01:45:18 PM
I read a rumor that the Jets are untagging (also known as Eagling) Abraham. Anyone else?

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 02, 2006, 01:54:46 PM
Supposedly there's a rule that you can't tag a player just to trade him, that you have to at least show intent to offer him whatever the tag value is.  If the Jets have no intention of offering the tag amount, then he can't be tagged...

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 02, 2006, 01:54:33 PM
Cowboys | Glover to be released
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 10:37:22 -0800

Jay Glazer, of FOXSports.com, reports Dallas Cowboys DL La'Roi Glover has been informed he will be released.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 02, 2006, 01:58:19 PM

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 02, 2006, 01:54:33 PM
Cowboys | Glover to be released
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 10:37:22 -0800

Jay Glazer, of FOXSports.com, reports Dallas Cowboys DL La'Roi Glover has been informed he will be released.

There's our DT boys...

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 02, 2006, 02:03:22 PM
i think i'd rather have Bernard

Quote from: phattymatty on March 02, 2006, 04:35:34 PM
Kevin Mawae was just cut.

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 02, 2006, 04:36:29 PM
what position does he play?

Quote from: rjs246 on March 02, 2006, 02:20:06 PM
I'd take Glover. No doubt.

Quote from: MadMarchHare on March 02, 2006, 04:26:46 PM
SIGN BARBER (just cut by Chiefs, along with Warfield, McCleon)

Quote from: SD_Eagle on March 02, 2006, 04:39:46 PM

Quote from: rjs246 on March 02, 2006, 02:20:06 PM
I'd take Glover. No doubt.

I'll pass, he's washed up.

Quote from: PhillyGirl on March 02, 2006, 04:42:43 PM
Didn't Barber miss ANOTHER full year with injury last year?

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 02, 2006, 04:43:44 PM

Quote from: SD_Eagle on March 02, 2006, 04:39:46 PM

Quote from: rjs246 on March 02, 2006, 02:20:06 PM
I'd take Glover. No doubt.

I'll pass, he's washed up.

No way he's washed up, man.  Yeah, he bombed in DAL in the 3-4 (what 290lb DT wouldn't?), but he can still be plenty effective in a 4-3 scheme.

Quote from: SD_Eagle on March 02, 2006, 04:48:26 PM

Quote from: PhillyGirl on March 02, 2006, 04:42:43 PM
Didn't Barber miss ANOTHER full year with injury last year?

He's only played 11 games in the past two seasons so we could probably get him cheap like we did last time.  :P

Quote from: Die-Hard on March 02, 2006, 11:16:50 PM
Eagles | Team might have interest in R. Bernard
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 17:58:08 -0800

The Associated Press reports the Philadelphia Eagles might have interest in Seattle Seahawks DL Rocky Bernard, who is expected to become a free agent.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 02, 2006, 01:58:19 PM

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 02, 2006, 01:54:33 PM
Cowboys | Glover to be released
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 10:37:22 -0800

Jay Glazer, of FOXSports.com, reports Dallas Cowboys DL La'Roi Glover has been informed he will be released.

There's our DT boys...

Quote
Colts make offers to two defensive leaders
NFL.com wire reports 

INDIANAPOLIS (March 2, 2006) -- The Indianapolis Colts offered Pro Bowl linebacker Cato June and sack leader Robert Mathis one-year tenders in an effort to keep the core of their improved defense intact next season.

Both were set to become restricted free agents when the market opens March 6.

Colts spokesman Craig Kelley said he could not confirm the offers.

   
The Colts would like to bring back the hard-hitting Cato June.     
Mathis led the Colts with 11 1/2 sacks last season, his second straight season with a double-digit sack total.

June blossomed in his second season as a starter. The converted safety recorded 109 tackles, third most on the team, and intercepted a team-high five passes, which helped him earn his first Pro Bowl selection.

June and Mathis can still negotiate with other teams, but the Colts can match any deal they sign. If the Colts choose not to match the deal, they would receive a draft choice as compensation from the other team.

The two moves were the latest intended to shore up the Colts defense, which was faster and better last season.

On March 1, the Colts agreed to a multiyear deal with leading tackler Gary Brackett, leaving David Thornton as the only starting linebacker still set to become an unrestricted free agent March 6.

The Colts also signed defensive lineman Raheem Brock to a five-year deal Feb. 24.

The Colts, who are $6 million to $10 million over the NFL's salary cap of $94.5 million, also reportedly lost an arbitration ruling that would have helped them get underneath the cap.

The Indianapolis Star reported that the ruling prevents the Colts from converting roster bonuses totaling about $19 million into signing bonuses for Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison.

Now team president Bill Polian faces some tough decisions. Agents for defensive tackles Corey Simon and Montae Reagor and receiver Brandon Stokley, who all have base salaries of at least $1.5 million next year, said the Colts had given them no indication whether their players might be cut.

QuoteVikings | Team already has an agreement with Leber in place?
Sun, 5 Mar 2006 08:16:01 -0800

Sean Jensen, of the Pioneer Press, reports the buzz around the NFL is that the Minnesota Vikings have already agreed in principle on a multiyear deal with free agent LB Ben Leber (Chargers). Leber could land a $7 million signing bonus and a contract that averages $4 million a year. Leber is big (6 feet 3, 244 pounds) and athletic, and Fran Foley, the Vikings' vice president of player personnel, knows him well from their days with the Chargers.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 05, 2006, 07:16:49 PM
Schefter reporting that the Giants will probably sign Sam Madison. he said it would surprise no one if he ends up there. He has been talking to the Giants and a deal has not yet been done but coudl be soon.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 05, 2006, 07:21:08 PM

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 05, 2006, 07:16:49 PM
Schefter reporting that the Giants will probably sign Sam Madison. he said it would surprise no one if he ends up there. He has been talking to the Giants and a deal has not yet been done but coudl be soon.

How could a deal be even close to done?  I thought talks weren't allowed to really start until 12:01 AM.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 06, 2006, 12:25:33 AM
Get arrington!

QuoteI was at MGM Studios in orlando yesterday and ESPN the weekend was there.. They had a bunch of football guys there doing interviews and taking questions from the crowd.. Among them was.... Hines Ward, Jeramiah Trotter, Tony Gonzales etc..etc..


So I make my way thru the crowd and find the guy with the Mic that was letting people ask the players questions... I got his attention and he came over to me.. He asked my name and where i was from and what my question was... here is the transcript of what was said next....


me: hi my question is to jeramiah
me: with the current situation with the cba and the situation of the taterskins how would you feel if Lavar Arrington became a FA, its obvious the eagles need help on the outside and you have played with him before...

trotter: " with a ish eatin grin on his face" funny you should ask that...

trotter: its interesting the things that are going on right now, i would love to have Lavar here, he is an amazing talent that would be welcomed with open arms

trotter: playing with him in wash. was great, people dont realize how gifted he really is..

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 06, 2006, 02:57:47 PM
The notion of pissing the taterskins fans off seeing him in an Eagles jersey and killing their team helps me like the idea of him coming here. Not to mention he'd be a beast in JJ's scheme.

JJ would be like Gene Hackman in The Replacements telling that dumb LB to "go get me the ball, Danny. Go get the ball" instead of teaching him x's and o's.

Quote from: Bigskinbauer on March 06, 2006, 04:56:28 PM
Lavar just said on the radio that he wants to go to an NFC east team so he can come back to the city he loves once a year(BULL shtein)

"I would have a hard time wearing a dallas jersey so that leaves two teams"...

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 06, 2006, 04:27:18 PM

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 06, 2006, 02:57:47 PM
The notion of pissing the taterskins fans off seeing him in an Eagles jersey and killing their team helps me like the idea of him coming here. Not to mention he'd be a beast in JJ's scheme.

JJ would be like Gene Hackman in The Replacements telling that dumb LB to "go get me the ball, Danny. Go get the ball" instead of teaching him x's and o's.

I'm listening to him on Sports Talk 980 right now, he mentioned wanting to stay in the NFC East but can't imagine wearing a Dallas jersey.

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 06, 2006, 05:13:00 PM
i'd say the chances are less than 0%

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 06, 2006, 05:21:48 PM
Extremeskins is panicking  :-D

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 06, 2006, 05:19:18 PM

.  I think there's about a 25% the Eagles are even remotely interested in him, and if they are, I'll give them 80% to get him, since he is basically saying he wants to play in Philly or New Jersey... and have you ever seen Elizabeth/Newark?

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 06, 2006, 05:25:24 PM
I usually don't visit there, but I wanted to read what else Lavar said on the show....

Quote from: mussa on March 06, 2006, 05:47:06 PM
hmmm lavarr arrington or shawn barber?  thats a tough one, let me think alittle.

Quote from: Bigskinbauer on March 06, 2006, 05:32:01 PM
as long as the eagles don't just flat out say no i think lavar has a great chance to end up at philly. Some eagle bitch at my school was talking about lavar going to philly. Then a lot of fans thought lavar would end up at philly. Now lavar says he wants to go to philly. If not philly I say he goes to the vikings to meet up with smoot so they can have hot butt sex or San diego...

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 06, 2006, 04:27:18 PM

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 06, 2006, 02:57:47 PM
The notion of pissing the taterskins fans off seeing him in an Eagles jersey and killing their team helps me like the idea of him coming here. Not to mention he'd be a beast in JJ's scheme.

JJ would be like Gene Hackman in The Replacements telling that dumb LB to "go get me the ball, Danny. Go get the ball" instead of teaching him x's and o's.

I'm listening to him on Sports Talk 980 right now, he mentioned wanting to stay in the NFC East but can't imagine wearing a Dallas jersey.

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 06, 2006, 05:33:21 PM

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 06, 2006, 05:25:24 PM
I usually don't visit there, but I wanted to read what else Lavar said on the show....

Oooh, you'll be back. It's like a crack addiction, only one that makes your brain bleed.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 06, 2006, 06:16:16 PM

Quote from: mussa on March 06, 2006, 05:47:06 PM
hmmm lavarr arrington or shawn barber?  thats a tough one, let me think alittle.

LaVar.

Quote from: PhillyPhaninDC on March 06, 2006, 07:16:06 PM
I think the chance of the LaVar wishing to go to a NFC East team are seriously climbing at the moment. Just went to pick up some food, and Sportstalk 980 (Basically the Skins propaganda station) is running a smear campaign, saying something to the effect that in a late season game LaVar was involved in an argument with his linebacker coach, Dale Lindsey, and it almost escalated into something physical. Going on to say he is a bad apple, etc. Love how no one ever heard of this "altercation" before the day they release the dude. Hope LaVar goes looking for some revenge this season.....even better if he is doing it in midnight green.

Quote
ARRINGTON TURNED DOWN $6.5 MILLION

A reader has tipped us off to an unusual dynamic regarding the recent release of linebacker LaVar Arrington by the taterskins, which occurred when he agreed to waive $4.4 million in earned but unpaid signing bonus money.  We've confirmed the following new information through a league source.

As it turns out, the 'Skins offered to convert the $6.5 million roster bonus owed to Arrington into a guaranteed signing bonus, which would have permitted it to be prorated over four years.  The 'Skins also offered to move up all or part of the $4.4 million in deferred payments from his December 2003 signing bonus.

Arrington was poised at one point to accept the deal, but then opted for free agency.

So the maneuver results in a $10.9 million hole from which Arrington will now dig on the open market.  And if his agents haven't lined up a deal that will pay him more than $10.9 million plus his $545,000 base salary in 2006, it will prove in hindsight to be a bad move.

Quote from: PhillyPhaninDC on March 06, 2006, 08:26:56 PM

Quote
ARRINGTON TURNED DOWN $6.5 MILLION

A reader has tipped us off to an unusual dynamic regarding the recent release of linebacker LaVar Arrington by the taterskins, which occurred when he agreed to waive $4.4 million in earned but unpaid signing bonus money.  We've confirmed the following new information through a league source.

As it turns out, the 'Skins offered to convert the $6.5 million roster bonus owed to Arrington into a guaranteed signing bonus, which would have permitted it to be prorated over four years.  The 'Skins also offered to move up all or part of the $4.4 million in deferred payments from his December 2003 signing bonus.

Arrington was poised at one point to accept the deal, but then opted for free agency.

So the maneuver results in a $10.9 million hole from which Arrington will now dig on the open market.  And if his agents haven't lined up a deal that will pay him more than $10.9 million plus his $545,000 base salary in 2006, it will prove in hindsight to be a bad move.

Well, that all but guarantees Arrington won't be an Eagle. No way he gets close to that money here.

Quote from: PhillyPhaninDC on March 06, 2006, 07:16:06 PM
Love how no one ever heard of this "altercation" before the day they release the dude. Hope LaVar goes looking for some revenge this season.....even better if he is doing it in midnight green.

Quote from: Washington Post 12/30/05A Dishonorable Discharge

By Mike Wise
Friday, December 30, 2005; E01



What in all likelihood was LaVar Arrington's last day in the home locker room after a regular season game at FedEx Field featured an ugly shouting match in the training room with his position coach, Dale Lindsey. Arrington had grown tired of Lindsey, the linebackers coach, calling him from upstairs in the booth, berating him for missed assignments in a victory over the New York Giants last Saturday.

He finally hung up on Lindsey, and the feud carried over into the locker room, growing more profane and personal. It ended with Arrington telling Lindsey to "Back off!" and "Treat me like a man!" According to two persons privy to the altercation, the coach went a tad more overboard than the player.

"I was thinking, 'Enough already,' " said one player, on condition of anonymity. "Let LaVar be."

What a fitting send-off for Arrington, the guy who carried Daniel Snyder's banner during the lean years. Beautiful. Way to emotionally beat down a proud, sentimental veteran whose only real character flaw was that he stubbornly believed enough in this organization to want to retire here.

This town is a win from going absolutely ga-ga over Joe Gibbs's team again. Beat the Eagles on Sunday and Gibbs secures a postseason berth for Washington for the first time since 1999. "Ten and six" must sound so much better than 6-10 to the true zealot. What a phenomenal, 12-month turnabout that would be.

But let's not forget the marginalization of Arrington, the franchise's most popular player of the new millennium. The spin being put out on Arrington's latest comments is frankly amazing. Many are ripping the guy who told the Washington Times this week that management didn't want him, that he was most likely done in Washington. People are treating Arrington as if he were a T.O. clone, creating controversy, stirring the pot on the brink of the franchise's most important game in years.

No one is talking about how in two humiliating years, Mr. taterskin was callously turned into Mr. Irrelevant.

Hampered by injury and the lack of confidence his coaches have in him, Arrington rarely plays on third and fourth downs anymore. On many Sunday afternoons, when the opposing offense is facing a third and long, Arrington sits. Never mind that he is bigger and faster than Fred Dean was lining up at defensive end for the great 49ers teams of the 1980s, Arrington's pass-rushing skills are somehow deemed too insignificant to help a blitzing, aggressive defense.

When Arrington is given a fair amount of snaps, the masses are informed that it has nothing to do with Arrington playing the way that earned him two Pro Bowl selections. No, they say LaVar got religion, believed in the principles of defensive coach Gregg Williams's system, finally put in the rehab and film time needed to be rewarded with more playing opportunities.

Arrington was asked about a moment he thought his career changed in Washington. He was reminded of a Wizards game last season. His face was flashed on the overhead video scoreboard and was greeted by intermittent boos. He was taking the heat for his team's dismal season. After the game, Arrington waited patiently as the crowd filed out. He had arranged to get a pair of signed shoes from a visiting NBA player. MCI Center security guards would not let him back near the locker rooms. The most popular athlete in town was treated like a deranged fan demanding to be let in the locker room for an autograph.

Arrington got angry and emotional before his future wife calmed him down. The next day, he canceled his season tickets. Was his love affair with Washington already dying?

"No, the town never turned on me," he said, sitting in front of his locker at the team's practice facility in Ashburn on Wednesday. "They were always behind me. It was individuals. That's all I'm going to say."

He won't say who, but we already know where and with whom the enmity began. Snyder, the team owner who made him fabulously rich and befriended his charismatic, handsome linebacking star, dumped him quicker than AOL stock. From the moment Arrington filed a contract grievance in March 2004, contending the team omitted $6.5 million in bonus money agreed upon for the 2006 season, he was shuttled out of Snyder's suite and sent to the doghouse. The taterskins said they did not owe Arrington the money, and the linebacker eventually dropped the arbitration case.

But with Snyder no longer in his corner, it became open season on Arrington for the coaching staff.

When Arrington was hardly playing in late September and early October this season, he saw Snyder in a hallway and was about to offer some pleasantries. "Don't talk to me," the owner said, according to a person who saw the encounter. "I didn't have anything to do with this."

When Gibbs and his coaching staff took over the team two years ago, they did not consider Arrington to be part of the solution to the franchise's woes; they saw him as another impediment. They believed Arrington could not curb his individualism for the good of the team. They never got around the perception that he could not fit in. They saw Arrington as a nuisance -- a high-maintenance, high-salaried star who could never live up to his Pro Bowl aura or reputation.

As effective and bright as the team's coaches are, they decided who Arrington was and what he was about before they gave him a chance to see what he could become. And when he finally showed them his worth, his body betrayed him again. He played only two full games last season and missed 12 games with a bone bruise.

The injury cost Arrington a shot at proving his worth to Williams and his staff. They moved on and inserted lesser-known players, and the defense turned in one of its best years in recent memory. Returning from offseason knee surgery robbed him of his explosiveness this season. He wasn't their cup of tea to begin with, and his ailments made it that much easier to cast him aside.

Arrington's representatives asked that they be allowed to speak with other teams about a possible trade early this season, but were rebuffed both times. Now, it wouldn't be a surprise if the team waited until mid-July to cut him, after every other franchise has run out of salary-cap room.

Was Arrington also to blame for this pending divorce between player and team? No doubt. He is an emotionally deep, feeling person. If he was being honest with himself, Arrington would admit he took things too personally, internalized every slight, felt his loyalty and accomplishments before Gibbs was hired were completely overlooked by the new regime.

He hated the perception that he was only a freelancing, headhunter, unable to coexist in a defense built on elaborate schemes that demands on-field discipline from its players. It made him look book-smart and system-dumb.

But when your face stops appearing in the team's marketing campaigns, when they don't restock your jersey in the team store until the demand becomes overwhelming, when the assistant gets in your face like you're the walk-on, the writing is on the wall.

Crazy, no? Most people in the organization believe they learned to win without Arrington. They have no idea that they won in spite of how they treated him.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 06, 2006, 07:00:14 PM
I was gonna post that... but really saw no point.

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 06, 2006, 08:43:27 PM

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 06, 2006, 07:00:14 PM
I was gonna post that... but really saw no point.

It's like finding out the relative that you thought was dead years ago, actually died last week.

Quote from: Beermonkey on March 06, 2006, 08:43:27 PM

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 06, 2006, 07:00:14 PM
I was gonna post that... but really saw no point.

It's like finding out the relative that you thought was dead years ago, actually died last week.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 07, 2006, 10:43:32 AM
LaVar has very little chance of getting paid anything near what he wants from the Steelers Eagles, so I doubt that.

Quote from: ice grillin you on March 07, 2006, 09:22:53 AM
Without that interception against Tampa Bay [in the first round of the 2005 playoffs], the taterskins don't win that game."

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 07, 2006, 02:43:50 PM
-- Trevor Pryce will visit the Browns.

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 07, 2006, 02:43:50 PM
-- According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Marquand Manuel will leave the Seahawks for the Packers....5 yrs, $10M, $2M SB  :sly

Quotei feel like i should know anyone in the nfl's name who is making $12M.  i guess i don't.

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 07, 2006, 04:51:43 PM
me three, ROFLOL!!1!1!

Quote from: Wingspan on March 07, 2006, 05:03:12 PM

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 07, 2006, 04:51:43 PM
me three, ROFLOL!!1!1!

shut up

Quote from: PhillyGirl on March 09, 2006, 09:43:53 AM
Willie McGinest cut (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2360784)

Quote from: rjs246 on March 09, 2006, 10:58:09 AM
Dude's like 48 years old. I wish the Eagles would sign a talented young LB long-term so that this never-ending LB rotation would just end.

Quote from: phattymatty on March 09, 2006, 11:00:54 AM
i thought mcginest played DE for some reason. 

Quotearrington to stay in nfc east?

QuoteArrington weighing options
<Mar. 9> The Browns have contacted Arrington's agent to find out if the free-agent linebacker has considered Cleveland as a possible landing spot, The Plain Dealer reports.

Arrington, who recently agreed to a buyout of his contract with the taterskins, said in a radio interview he wants to stay in the NFC East, but would prefer not to play for the Cowboys, leaving the Eagles and Giants as potential options.

The Giants, thanks to the new collective bargaining agreement, should have enough cap room to make the outside linebacker a legitimate offer. Giants middle linebacker Antonio Pierce, who played with Arrington in Washington, has been pushing the Giants' front office to pursue his former teammate.

The Eagles are in need of playmakers to fortify their front seven and Arrington is said to be healthy after a couple of knee surgeries. However, the Eagles don't spend a lot on their linebackers and are expected to focus on the offensive and defensive lines in free agency.

Quote from: hunt on March 09, 2006, 12:16:19 PM
werd.
is that from insider?

Quote from: hunt on March 09, 2006, 12:21:53 PM
sweet.
i think it goes without saying that i'd much rather see arrington come to philly than go to the gints.
but i said it anyway.

Quote from: Mad-Lad on March 10, 2006, 03:30:59 PM
Madison's a good signing for the Giants.  Sure, he's getting up there in years  but he's been a hell of a player for a quite some time.  He'll definitely  be an asset for New York.

Quote from: Mad-Lad on March 10, 2006, 03:30:59 PM
Madison's a good signing for the Giants.  Sure, he's getting up there in years  but he's been a hell of a player for a quite some time.  He'll definitely  be an asset for New York.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 11, 2006, 05:43:05 PM
Jeez...thats a load of cash for him.

He's paid higher than Lito and Sheldon.

Watch them hold out for more money now that players who are crappy are getting wads o' cash. That'd be our luck.

QuoteRams | Team poised to sign Witherspoon?
Sat, 11 Mar 2006 15:12:51 -0800

Pat Yasinskas, of the Charlotte Observer, reports the St. Louis Rams appear to be poised to sign free agent LB Will Witherspoon (Panthers). The Rams could pay him as much as $13 million in bonus money.

QuoteVikings | Leber signed
Sat, 11 Mar 2006 17:29:50 -0800

Mark Craig, of the Star Tribune, reports the Minnesota Vikings have signed free agent LB Ben Leber (Chargers). Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 11, 2006, 08:39:27 PM
i heard that Tripplet's going to Buffalo and Pickett's going to St. Louis.  confirm, deny, suicide?

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 11, 2006, 08:39:27 PM
i heard that Tripplet's going to Buffalo and Pickett's going to St. Louis.  confirm, deny, suicide?

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 11, 2006, 10:15:13 PM
mother farger.

i really don't think it's overreacting if we say that this day has been a disaster.

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 11, 2006, 10:15:13 PMi really don't think it's overreacting if we say that this day has been a disaster.

Quote from: qwert246 on March 12, 2006, 09:57:54 AM
No talk of Darren Howard?
You guys are gunshy over the whole Bentley thing.

QuoteBrowns | Team agrees to terms with T. Washington
Sun, 12 Mar 2006 10:08:10 -0800

Jamison Hensley, of the Balitmore Sun, reports the Cleveland Browns have reached a contract agreement with free agent DT Ted Washington (Raiders). Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 12, 2006, 04:37:14 PM
I think the Giants signed Lavar.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 12, 2006, 05:01:57 PM
I think it's a premature rumor.

I'd disregard it for now.

QuoteRams | Team intends for Witherspoon to play middle linebacker
Sun, 12 Mar 2006 16:52:15 -0800

Nick Wagoner, of StLouisRams.com, reports the St. Louis Rams plan to have LB Will Witherspoon play middle linebacker. Witherspoon has played the middle before with the Carolina Panthers due to injury situations with Panthers LB Dan Morgan.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 12, 2006, 08:05:46 PM
Maybe we can go after Witherspoon again in 2 years after the Rams cut him.

Lord knows we'll still need a decent WIL.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 12, 2006, 08:05:46 PM
A 6'1", 231 lb MLB?!  ???

Quote from: MURP on March 12, 2006, 08:09:52 PM

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 12, 2006, 08:05:46 PM
A 6'1", 231 lb MLB?!  ???

Vilma

Quote from: MURP on March 12, 2006, 08:09:52 PM

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 12, 2006, 08:05:46 PM
A 6'1", 231 lb MLB?!  ???

Vilma

Quote"He's picking the teams he feels comfortable, teams where he feels he could play in their system," said Carl Poston, who added that he and the Giants had not talked contract numbers as of early last night. "But I'm sure they're interested."

Quote from: PhillyGirl on March 13, 2006, 12:12:23 PM
The Colts have Corey Simon. They don't need no stinkin' LBs.

Quote from: PhillyGirl on March 13, 2006, 12:13:29 PM
Only I was sarcastic.

You are dead serious.  :-D

Quote from: ice grillin you on March 13, 2006, 12:10:13 PM
could the colts let more good linebackers go

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 13, 2006, 02:25:25 PM
The Panthers signed Damione Lewis.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 13, 2006, 07:37:00 PM

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 13, 2006, 02:25:25 PM
The Panthers signed Damione Lewis.

Jesus.

Kemoeatu
Jenkins
Lewis
Peppers
Rucker

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 13, 2006, 07:37:00 PM

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 13, 2006, 02:25:25 PM
The Panthers signed Damione Lewis.

Jesus.

Kemoeatu
Jenkins
Lewis
Peppers
Rucker

Quote from: rjs246 on March 13, 2006, 07:40:01 PM
When Jesus catches a three yard flare on third and 5, does he get up and point to himself in celebration?

Quote from: rjs246 on March 13, 2006, 07:40:01 PM
When Jesus catches a three yard flare on third and 5, does he get up and point to himself in celebration?

Quote from: rjs246 on March 13, 2006, 07:40:01 PM
When Jesus catches a three yard flare on third and 5, does he get up and point to himself in celebration?

Quote from: rjs246 on March 13, 2006, 07:40:01 PM
When Jesus catches a three yard flare on third and 5, does he get up and point to himself in celebration?

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 13, 2006, 08:30:23 PM
don't worry MDS, we forgive your people.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 13, 2006, 04:57:02 PM
The future sub .500 skins get carter.

The taterskins are at it again, and this makes the second defensive signing. Defensive end/outside linebacker Andre Carter is schedule to fly to Washington and sign his brand new six-year, approximately $30 million contract.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 13, 2006, 08:15:21 PM
Jesus should be in a Skins uniform, BM.  :yay

Quote from: General_Failure on March 13, 2006, 09:30:18 PM
Bad grammer. Nazis. Shouldn't be too hard to figure out, I think.

QuoteGiants | McQuarters update
Mon, 13 Mar 2006 19:36:30 -0800

Arthur Staple, of Newsday, reports the New York Giants have signed free agent CB R.W. McQuarters (Lions) to a three-year contract worth $6 million. The deal includes a $2 million signing bonus. He might compete for a starting role, but will likely end up as a corner in the nickel- and dime-packages.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 14, 2006, 08:17:51 AM
Why did this thread get the unpin treatment?  What did it ever do to you, mods?

Quote from: MURP on March 14, 2006, 10:15:02 AM

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 14, 2006, 08:17:51 AM
Why did this thread get the unpin treatment?  What did it ever do to you, mods?

for some reason pinned threads get "unpinned" at random times.  It happens more often then you notice, we just re-pin them before people see.     It seems to only unpin when the originator of the thread posts within the thread.   In this case, Phreak.  Even at that, it only happens here and there... and not every time.  :-D :chair

Quote from: Wingspan on March 14, 2006, 10:50:15 AM

Quote from: MURP on March 14, 2006, 10:15:02 AM

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 14, 2006, 08:17:51 AM
Why did this thread get the unpin treatment?  What did it ever do to you, mods?

for some reason pinned threads get "unpinned" at random times.  It happens more often then you notice, we just re-pin them before people see.     It seems to only unpin when the originator of the thread posts within the thread.   In this case, Phreak.  Even at that, it only happens here and there... and not every time.  :-D :chair

maybe when he edits the original post?

in any case...BAN PHREAK

Quote from: Wingspan on March 14, 2006, 10:50:15 AM


maybe when he edits the original post?

Quote from: ice grillin you on March 14, 2006, 12:44:03 PM
has there been a single inside linebacker signed yet?

QuoteLions give Edwards $8M in guarantees
By Michael Smith
ESPN.com

Defensvie end Kalimba Edwards has re-signed with the Detroit Lions for five years and $20Defensvie end Kalimba Edwards has re-signed with the Detroit Lions for five years and $20 million, with $8 million in guarantees.

Edwards visited the Browns, was to meet with the Falcons, and his agent, Kennard McGuire, had scheduled a trip to Oakland. Edwards decided to return to Detroit after being impressed by new coach Rod Marinelli and defensvie coordinator Donnie Henderson's recruiting efforts. Edwards, 26, posted seven of his 20 career sacks last season in his role as a situational pass rusher. Detroit drafted him in 2002 out of South Carolina with the third pick of the second round.

Michael Smith is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.

QuoteESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli reports free agent S Shaun Williams (Giants) has reached a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers. Financial terms are not yet available.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 14, 2006, 02:50:07 PM
There is a rumor that John Abraham will be traded to the Skins for Ramsey, a 2nd round pick and a first.

Probably next year's picks since they don't have them this year.

Quote from: Dillen37 on March 14, 2006, 02:58:17 PM
Rams signed CB Fahkir Brown.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 15, 2006, 01:42:52 AM
Falcons | Team trying to trade for Abraham
Tue, 14 Mar 2006 20:58:41 -0800

ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli reports the Atlanta Falcons are trying to piece together a trade offer to present to the New York Jets in exchange for franchise free agent DE John Abraham. One significant blockage to a deal that, despite ongoing efforts from both sides, remains a long shot: The Falcons steadfastly refuse to include QB Matt Schaub, the player Jets officials regard as the centerpiece to any deal, in their trade proposals. It is believed the Jets are seeking Schaub and the Falcons' second-round draft pick for Abraham.

Good idea. Give up your best QB and a 2nd for a DE.

QuoteSources: Falcons pursuing deal to land Jets' Abraham
By Len Pasquarelli and Chris Mortensen
ESPN.com

ATLANTA -- The Atlanta Falcons are working hard to assemble the appropriate pieces of a trade package intended to lure prized defensive end John Abraham from the New York Jets, ESPN and ESPN.com have confirmed through league sources.

One significant road bump to a deal that, despite ongoing efforts from both sides, remains a long shot: The Falcons steadfastly refuse to include two-year veteran quarterback Matt Schaub, the player Jets officials regard as the centerpiece to any deal, in their trade proposals.

It is believed the Jets are seeking Schaub and the Falcons' second-round draft pick for Abraham.

Without the inclusion of Schaub, the backup to Michael Vick and a youngster whose résumé includes just two regular-season starts, the swap might never be consummated. But Atlanta in particular continues to pursue it and hopes to craft a package that might attract the Jets, but without having to surrender Schaub or the Falcons' first-round draft choice, the 15th overall selection in the lottery.

"There have been discussions, as in plural, but I don't know that it will happen," said one team official. "But [the two teams] are still plugging away."

That said, neither club seems prepared yet to end the talks, in part because the Falcons covet Abraham and because New York is determined to trade the veteran end, designated by the Jets as their franchise player for a second consecutive year.

Despite the speculation that the Jets will use the fourth overall pick on April 29 to choose one of the three highly regarded quarterback prospects in the 2006 draft, New York has apparently targeted Schaub as the young passer it really wants to land. The Jets recently restructured the contract of starting quarterback Chad Pennington to keep from having to release him for cap reasons. But uncertainty still surrounds Pennington, who had surgery in October to repair a torn right rotator cuff, his second such procedure in eight months.

Because of the Pennington situation, the Jets are seeking a younger player, one with starting potential.

A third-round draft choice in 2004, Schaub is highly regarded around the NFL and by Atlanta officials. The former University of Virginia standout has played in 11 games in two seasons, two of them starts, and has completed 66 of 134 attempts for 825 yards, with five touchdown passes, four interceptions and a passer rating of 68.8.

Schaub, 24, lost both his starts. But in a 31-28 loss to New England last Oct. 9 at the Georgia Dome, he threw for 298 yards and three touchdowns in an impressive outing. The defensive coordinator for New England in that game was Eric Mangini, who is the Jets' new head coach, and who obviously liked what he saw of Schaub that day.

Falcons officials are reluctant to part with Schaub for at least two reasons: First, they consider him a quality player and an eventual starter in the league. Second, team officials realize that Vick's derring-do style will always make him susceptible to injuries, and that Atlanta needs a solid backup capable of possibly starting a few games every season. The Falcons consider Schaub ideal for that role.

"We like [Schaub] and he plays a very important position," Falcons team president Rich McKay told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution earlier this week. "From our position, what it would take [to surrender Schaub in a trade] would have to be very strong."

That said, the Falcons would love to land Abraham, a high-energy defender who is viewed as one of the NFL's premier outside pass rushers. And whether New York deals Abraham to Atlanta or some other club, it's clear the six-year veteran will not be back with the Jets in 2006.

Abraham visited with Washington officials over the weekend and was set to be in Seattle for a Wednesday visit. It was announced last week that Abraham would meet with four teams, and Atlanta is believed to be among them.

The Jets last month designated Abraham a franchise player, essentially making him a one-year qualifying offer of $8.33 million, but also severely limiting his mobility in free agency. New York used the franchise tag a year ago, as well, to retain Abraham, and he missed the offseason programs and training camp before signing the one-year deal, worth $6.66 million just days before the start of the season.

Abraham has been saying for two years that he prefers a long-term contract but the two sides have not been able to strike a satisfactory deal. Any team that trades for Abraham will have to first reach agreement with him on a long-term contract. The Falcons have some history in trading for franchise players, having acquired franchise wide receiver Peerless Price from Buffalo in 2003 after reaching a long-term accord that included a $10 million signing bonus.

The Falcons also have a history in dealing with Abraham's agent, Tony Agnone, who represents Atlanta standout left defensive end Patrick Kerney. Teaming Kerney and Abraham would give the Falcons a terrific defensive end tandem.

Termed by Cleveland Browns coach Romeo Crennel as "head and shoulders" above any pass rusher available this offseason, Abraham certainly is a proven sack man. One of the Jets' four first-round selections in the 2000 draft, Abraham has consistently been among the top pass rushers in the NFL, when healthy. Limited to just 19 appearances in 2003-2004 because of injuries, Abraham, a three-time Pro Bowl performer, played in all 16 games for the Jets in 2005, only the third time in six years he has played a full schedule.

He registered 67 tackles, 10½ sacks, six forced fumbles, one recovery and two passes defensed. For his career, the former South Carolina star has 328 tackles, 53½ sacks, 18 forced fumbles, five recoveries and eight pass deflections in 73 games.

Len Pasquarelli is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com. ESPN's Chris Mortensen is a regular contributor to Insider. He chats every Wednesday in The Show.

Quote from: MadMarchHare on March 15, 2006, 03:05:34 PM
Not if he wanted to stay in Seattle, which I believe is PG's point.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 15, 2006, 03:18:56 PM
That's possible, but it seems as they have an issue with every player out there.

Quote from: MURP on March 15, 2006, 03:16:37 PM
or maybe the Eagles just didnt want Rocky Bernard.  I read an interesting take on Bernard in TSN the other week... basically saying he was a flash in the pan and was a "follower" type who couldnt be counted on to lead a dline.   Different take then what everyone else says.  I was a bit surprised by it considering all the hype.  It is in the realm of possibility that the Eagles had the same view as the TSN staffer. 

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 15, 2006, 03:45:00 PM

Quote from: MURP on March 15, 2006, 03:16:37 PM
or maybe the Eagles just didnt want Rocky Bernard.  I read an interesting take on Bernard in TSN the other week... basically saying he was a flash in the pan and was a "follower" type who couldnt be counted on to lead a dline.   Different take then what everyone else says.  I was a bit surprised by it considering all the hype.  It is in the realm of possibility that the Eagles had the same view as the TSN staffer. 

Obviously, they didn't want Rocky Bernard.  But, with a line already containing Jevon Kearse and Darren Howard, wouldn't a "follower" who is actually capable of making plays be better than Rayburn and Hollis?

Neither of those guys could sniff 8 1/2 sacks.

I didn't think Rocky Bernard was the best option.  I wanted Tripplett, who did end up getting a bigger deal than Rocky.  But now the only viable FA option is Pickett, and the Eagles are showing no interest... then, if Bunkley and Ngata are both gone by #14?  Blammo.

Quote from: MURP on March 15, 2006, 03:55:58 PM
If # of sacks is a big deal in comparing Bernard to the Eagles DT's.. then why would you want Tripplett over Bernard?  Bernard has 18 sacks compared to Trippletts 4. 

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 15, 2006, 05:08:18 PM
That is precisely what I want. Buckner and Bunkley.

Take a WR or OLB in the 2nd round.

The chance for OL has passed. Everyone is signed, and I don't like the idea of taking OL in the 2nd round.

Quote from: ice grillin you on March 15, 2006, 05:08:58 PM
except for runyan

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 15, 2006, 05:13:03 PM

Quote from: ice grillin you on March 15, 2006, 05:08:58 PM
except for runyan

i beat you!!!111!#@34!!43$#43$34#4```````````6860945insertkey#)$#(!~~!!

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 15, 2006, 02:55:17 PM
Rocky Bernard stays in seattle.

Good job FO!

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2369788


The Seahawks fought off the Kansas City Chiefs on Wednesday and kept defensive tackle Rocky Bernard by reaching a three-year, $13 million deal that included a $5.4 million signing bonus. Bernard is coming off an 8½-sack season and also had his best season stopping the run.

Quote from: rjs246 on March 15, 2006, 05:28:04 PM
I'm currently pillaging.

Quote from: rjs246 on March 15, 2006, 05:28:04 PM
I'm currently pillaging.

Quote from: PhillyGirl on March 15, 2006, 05:20:04 PM
Oh here we go.  ::)

Why don't you go back and READ. He stayed with his own farging team, which he probably wanted all along. Taking less money to stay with the team he went to the Super Bowl with.

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 15, 2006, 05:29:00 PM

Quote from: rjs246 on March 15, 2006, 05:28:04 PM
I'm currently pillaging.

farging PG

Quote from: rjs246 on March 15, 2006, 05:35:07 PM
I don't rape, I take my pants off, close my eyes and sprint until I hit something moist.

Quote from: rjs246 on March 15, 2006, 05:35:07 PM
I don't rape, I take my pants off, close my eyes and sprint until I hit something moist.

Quote from: PhillyGirl on March 15, 2006, 05:34:45 PM

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 15, 2006, 05:29:00 PM

Quote from: rjs246 on March 15, 2006, 05:28:04 PM
I'm currently pillaging.

farging PG

what? You lost?  :-D :-D :-D :-D

Quote from: rjs246 on March 15, 2006, 05:35:07 PM
I don't rape, I take my pants off, close my eyes and sprint until I hit something moist.

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 15, 2006, 05:36:40 PM

Quote from: rjs246 on March 15, 2006, 05:35:07 PM
I don't rape, I take my pants off, close my eyes and sprint until I hit something moist.

be it a vagina, or my sweaty anus

QuoteAlso, the Ravens released veteran linebacker Peter Boulware, who has made many plays for the Ravens over the past nine seasons, but has slowed down some due to injuries.

Quote from: Tomahawk on March 16, 2006, 12:15:33 AM
http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/9310832

QuoteAlso, the Ravens released veteran linebacker Peter Boulware, who has made many plays for the Ravens over the past nine seasons, but has slowed down some due to injuries.

He may be nearly as old as me and not nearly as impressive as he once was, but he's still better than what the Eagles currently have at SAM.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 16, 2006, 09:16:57 AM

Quote from: Tomahawk on March 16, 2006, 12:15:33 AM
http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/9310832

QuoteAlso, the Ravens released veteran linebacker Peter Boulware, who has made many plays for the Ravens over the past nine seasons, but has slowed down some due to injuries.

He may be nearly as old as me and not nearly as impressive as he once was, but he's still better than what the Eagles currently have at SAM.

Boulware = cooked

QuoteMeanwhile, in a blockbuster trade that is purely speculation at this point, Pro Bowl defensive end John Abraham, whom the Jets finally were able to deal, was sent to Seattle for the Seahawks' first-round draft pick, the 31st overall selection. The deal is contingent upon the Seahawks being able to sign Abraham to a long-term contract extension, something that has been challenging the past couple of seasons.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 17, 2006, 04:55:43 PM
From Schefter's article...

QuoteMeanwhile, in a blockbuster trade that is purely speculation at this point, Pro Bowl defensive end John Abraham, whom the Jets finally were able to deal, was sent to Seattle for the Seahawks' first-round draft pick, the 31st overall selection. The deal is contingent upon the Seahawks being able to sign Abraham to a long-term contract extension, something that has been challenging the past couple of seasons.

QuoteFree agency has opened with a flurry. Already, numerous teams are on the board. Take a glance at the deals, and the potential soon-to-be deals.

This list will be constantly updated throughout the day each day, so refresh this page often!
March 17

On a whirlwind Friday, the New York Jets completed one trade, for now, that has reshaped their roster.

The Jets sent their sixth-round pick to the Washington taterskins for quarterback Patrick Ramsey, a former first-round pick. The Jets have been seeking a quarterback of Ramsey's quality in recent weeks and at various points were close to completing the deal with the taterskins. Friday the deal went through.
March 16

Quote from: Dillen37 on March 17, 2006, 07:50:37 PM
Falcons traded a 4th round pick to Cleveland for FS/SS/CB Chris Crocker.

QuoteDolphins | Team only discussed preliminary numbers with Arrington; price is too high
Sat, 18 Mar 2006 07:16:13 -0800

Armando Salguero, of the Miami Herald, reports the Miami Dolphins have spoken with free agent LB LaVar Arrington (taterskins) and preliminary numbers were discussed, according to an NFLPA source. The Dolphins' priority is clearly Arrington, who visited last week. But Arrington's asking price is reported to be in the $6 million-a-year range, which is probably too rich for Miami.

Quote from: hunt on March 18, 2006, 10:36:13 AM
i think it's safe to say $6 mill is also too rich for the eagles.

Quote from: hunt on March 18, 2006, 10:36:13 AM

QuoteDolphins | Team only discussed preliminary numbers with Arrington; price is too high
Sat, 18 Mar 2006 07:16:13 -0800

Armando Salguero, of the Miami Herald, reports the Miami Dolphins have spoken with free agent LB LaVar Arrington (taterskins) and preliminary numbers were discussed, according to an NFLPA source. The Dolphins' priority is clearly Arrington, who visited last week. But Arrington's asking price is reported to be in the $6 million-a-year range, which is probably too rich for Miami.

i think it's safe to say $6 mill is also too rich for the eagles.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 18, 2006, 12:06:39 PM
He was a backup until they needed a spark on defense to get into the playoffs and win a game.

They would have lost to the Bucs without Arrington in the lineup.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 18, 2006, 12:29:00 PM
No, you pay him that much money based on his freakish athletic ability and knack for big plays.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 18, 2006, 12:46:09 PM
Someone will.  And the Eagles will still have "the professor" in the starting lineup.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 18, 2006, 10:51:35 AM
I'd give Arrington about $7-8m to sign with another roster bonus of a few mill in a year or two...

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 18, 2006, 12:46:09 PM
Someone will.  And the Eagles will still have "the professor" in the starting lineup.

Quote from: SD_Eagle on March 18, 2006, 12:52:44 PM
Next we'll see a "Here's why Arrington won't be an Eagle" thread.

Quote from: hunt on March 20, 2006, 06:49:22 PM
i have a feeling they'll sign peterson.

Quote from: SD_Eagle on March 20, 2006, 07:00:28 PM

Quote from: hunt on March 20, 2006, 06:49:22 PM
i have a feeling they'll sign peterson.

I prefer a disciplined guy who can shut down opposing TE's like Peterson over a free lancing freak like Arrington who comes up with the occassional big play. (Disclaimer: I'd be elated if we signed either)

Quote from: hunt on March 20, 2006, 06:49:22 PM
i have a feeling they'll sign peterson.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 21, 2006, 12:05:09 AM
Seahawks | Team reaches agreement with Peterson
Mon, 20 Mar 2006 20:56:05 -0800

Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the Seattle Seahawks have reached an agreement with free agent LB Julian Peterson to a seven-year contract worth $54 million. The deal includes $18.5 million in guarantees, including $10 million for the 2006 season.

and then there was one...(Arrington)

Totally ridiculous contract by the way. He is not worth that kind of money.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 21, 2006, 12:05:09 AM
Seahawks | Team reaches agreement with Peterson
Mon, 20 Mar 2006 20:56:05 -0800

Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the Seattle Seahawks have reached an agreement with free agent LB Julian Peterson to a seven-year contract worth $54 million. The deal includes $18.5 million in guarantees, including $10 million for the 2006 season.

and then there was one...(Arrington)

Totally ridiculous contract by the way. He is not worth that kind of money.

Quote from: PhillyGirl on March 21, 2006, 07:49:45 AM
I can't believe they are paying this guy that much money. Cripes, how much will Arrington demand now?  :o

QuoteBTW, Dhani, Simoneau, and Pinkston are all in the top 10 on the team in 2006 salary.

Quote from: Philly Forever on March 21, 2006, 12:05:09 AM
Seahawks | Team reaches agreement with Peterson
Mon, 20 Mar 2006 20:56:05 -0800

Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the Seattle Seahawks have reached an agreement with free agent LB Julian Peterson to a seven-year contract worth $54 million. The deal includes $18.5 million in guarantees, including $10 million for the 2006 season.

and then there was one...(Arrington)

Totally ridiculous contract by the way. He is not worth that kind of money.

Quote from: EagleFeva on March 21, 2006, 03:15:49 PMDoesn't matter. The Seahawks just got better, he's going to make plays for them and every opponent they play with have to deal with his abilities on the field.

Quote from: mussa on March 22, 2006, 10:29:46 AM
Free Agency is over....bring on the draft

Quote from: BigEd76 on March 22, 2006, 12:07:54 AM
Math time:

2003 Eagles give up #30 and a 2nd-rd pick to jump to #15
2004 Eagles give up #28 and a 2nd-rd pick to jump to #16
2006 Broncos give up #29, a 3rd and a 4th to jump to #15

So a late 2nd round pick is basically worth a 3 and a 4?

QuoteBears | Azumah retires
Thu, 23 Mar 2006 11:30:05 -0800

The Associated Press reports Chicago Bears CB Jerry Azumah has retired after a seven-year tenure in the NFL. Azumah, 28, retired due to neck and hip pain the past two seasons. "This has been a great ride," Azumah said. "It's nothing to cry about or hold my head down to. Just looking at everything I accomplished and achieved, being here with the Bears and how they've embraced me, has been tremendous."

Quote from: Diomedes on March 23, 2006, 04:25:16 PM
Why is the free agency/offense thread ten pages longer than the defense one?

Quote from: Sun_Mo on March 23, 2006, 02:34:56 PM

QuoteBears | Azumah retires
Thu, 23 Mar 2006 11:30:05 -0800

The Associated Press reports Chicago Bears CB Jerry Azumah has retired after a seven-year tenure in the NFL. Azumah, 28, retired due to neck and hip pain the past two seasons. "This has been a great ride," Azumah said. "It's nothing to cry about or hold my head down to. Just looking at everything I accomplished and achieved, being here with the Bears and how they've embraced me, has been tremendous."

QuoteTexans | Cowart signed
Fri, 24 Mar 2006 12:58:03 -0800

ESPNews reports the Houston Texans have signed free agent LB Sam Cowart (Vikings). Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 25, 2006, 02:22:54 AM
They also have some good young DTs who rotate in at the other DT spot opposite Coleman.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on March 27, 2006, 09:47:08 AM
ND Kalu signs with the Texans

1 -year $750K

He's from SA and went to Rice (in Houston).

Quote from: rjs246 on March 27, 2006, 11:58:10 AM
they're switching to 4-3.

Quote from: FFatPatt on March 28, 2006, 08:33:25 AM
The Texans are pilfering our defense!  They also signed LB Zeke Moreno!

Quote from: PhillyGirl on April 06, 2006, 04:30:21 PM
sucks

Quote from: FFatPatt on April 06, 2006, 04:36:32 PM

Quote from: PhillyGirl on April 06, 2006, 04:30:21 PM
sucks

Now, now... let's not let this quality football thread digress into worthless personal opinions.  Sheesh.

QuotePatriots | Jones signed
Thu, 6 Apr 2006 12:08:07 -0700

Tom Casale, of Patriots Football Weekly, reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent S Tebucky Jones (Dolphins).

Quote from: Philly Forever on April 10, 2006, 10:29:23 PM
Arrington was excited enough about the visit that he wanted to talk to Favre.

Quote from: MURP on April 12, 2006, 11:53:05 AM
Lions re-sign Nate Wayne (http://www.mlive.com/newsflash/regional/index.ssf?/base/sports-17/1144801447229650.xml&storylist=newsmichigan)

QuoteEAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — LaVar Arrington took a physical for the New York Giants Thursday, one indication that the three-time Pro Bowl linebacker might be on the verge of signing with the team.
Giants general manager Ernie Accorsi said Arrington came to the New York area to take the physical. Arrington also visited the team March 11-12, but at the time, the 27-year-old declined to submit to an examination of his surgically repaired right knee.
Accorsi declined to go into detail, including where the physical took place or the results.
"He has had a physical with us," Accorsi said. "That's all that's taken place. If this triggers another round of hysteria, it will be inaccurate just like the last round. Nothing has happened in the negotiations. Obviously, you're not even going to think about a player without a physical examination. Now we have that."
Arrington was the No. 2 overall draft pick in 2000 and during his career at the taterskins made three straight Pro Bowl appearances. But he injured his knee in 2004 and saw only limited playing time that year and also had differences with the taterskins about playing time and playing style.
He finally bought out his contract for $4.4 million, but failed to get offers for close to the money he was asking.
The Giants, short on depth at linebacker, have been one of the teams interested, along with Miami, Cincinnati, Jacksonville and Green Bay. Arrington is thought to prefer the Giants because they are in the same division with the taterskins and because their middle linebacker, Antonio Pierce, is a close friend from their days together in Washington and has been pushing them to sign him..
The Giants did add to their linebacking corps by signing Brandon Short on Wednesday. He started for the Giants for three seasons before signing with the Carolina Panthers as a free agent in 2004. The Panthers released him last month.

QuotePanthers | Team signs Diggs
Thu, 20 Apr 2006 18:13:08 -0700

Pat Sutherland, of the Charlotte Observer, reports the Carolina Panthers have signed free agent LB Na'il Diggs (Packers) to an undisclosed contract.

QuoteBears | R. Manning signed to offer sheet
Fri, 21 Apr 2006 14:36:21 -0700

Pat Yasinskas, of the Charlotte Observer, reports the Chicago Bears have signed Carolina Panthers restricted free agent CB Ricky Manning Jr. to an offer sheet. The Panthers will have seven days to match the deal or they will receive a third-round draft choice from the Bears in this year's NFL Draft.

Quote from: phillymic2000 on April 22, 2006, 02:51:25 PM
yep, everyone else in the East is getting better but hey we're gonna get Walker right :puke

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on April 23, 2006, 02:53:31 AM
Emmons-Pierce-Arrington-Short

Thats a pretty good LB group.

Quote from: FFatPatt on April 23, 2006, 10:09:56 AM
Then... get Emmons?

Quote from: Sun_Mo on April 26, 2006, 06:28:27 PM
Charles Woodson to the Packers

Quote from: MURP on April 27, 2006, 09:35:08 AM
Charles Woodson is one of the most overrated players Ive ever seen in the NFL.  Somehow he is smart enough to keep making huge cash while being no more than an average CB. 

Quote26, 2006

NO SIGNING BONUS FOR WOODSON

A league source tells us that cornerback Charles Woodson's contract with the Packers includes a signing bonus of . . . zero dollars, zero cents.

The reason for the team's decision not to pay Woodson has less to do with his skill and more to do with the fact that the Packers have plenty of cap room for 2006.  By funding Woodson's first-year pay through a roster bonus and base salary, $10.5 million can be handed to him with no proration in future years.

As a practical matter, this makes it easier for the Packers to cut ties with Woodson in any future season, since there would be no acceleration due to the portion of the signing bonus that applies to future years.

We're also told that, although the deal is being characterized as a seven-year, $52 million arrangement, it is as a practical matter a three-year, $18 million package.  Depending on Woodson's performance, he could be gone by 2007 or 2008.

Not a huge deal, but not bad for an aging, injury-prone cover man as to whom only one other team expressed serious interest.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on April 23, 2006, 02:53:31 AM
Emmons-Pierce-Arrington-Short

Thats a pretty good LB group.

QuoteCardinals | Team signs J. Brewer
Thu, 27 Apr 2006 19:48:20 -0700

Sid Hartman, of the Star Tribune, reports the Arizona Cardinals have signed free agent S Jack Brewer (Eagles) to an undisclosed contract.

Quote from: MURP on April 12, 2006, 11:53:05 AM
Lions re-sign Nate Wayne (http://www.mlive.com/newsflash/regional/index.ssf?/base/sports-17/1144801447229650.xml&storylist=newsmichigan)

QuoteLions | Team releases Wayne
Mon, 1 May 2006 12:28:53 -0700

The Detroit Lions announced they have released LB Nate Wayne from the team

QuotePackers | More details on Woodson's contract
Wed, 3 May 2006 06:03:21 -0700

PackersNews.com reports Green Bay Packers CB Charles Woodson's contract with the Packers pays him a $4 million signing bonus. In 2006 he will earn a $4.35 million roster bonus and a $53,000 workout bonus. In 2007, Woodson will receive a $1 million roster bonus, due the 10th day of the league year, plus a base salary of $1.25 million, plus a $100,000 workout bonus. His $1.25 million base salary is guaranteed against injury, so if he gets hurt and the Packers cut him in the offseason because of the injury, they still must pay him the $1.25 million. If they cut him simply for poor performance, they won't owe him anything. From 2007 until the final year of the contract, he'll receive a $56,000 roster bonus each week he's on the team's 45-man game-day roster. That means he can make $896,000 a season if he's activated for every game. He also can earn a $100,000 workout bonus each season from 2007 to 2011. Woodson also has incentives and escalators for making the Pro Bowl. Any season he's chosen for the Pro Bowl, he'll receive a $100,000 bonus, and more importantly, his base salary the following season will increase $1.5 million. If he makes the Pro Bowl as an alternate, he'll receive a $25,000 bonus and his salary the next year does not change.

QuoteNate Wayne, Barry Gardner, Quinton Caver

Quote from: FFatPatt on May 05, 2006, 10:46:09 AM
Gardner and Caver - yes.  Wayne?  Not really.  He made some nice plays for the team and they didn't spend a high draft pick on him.  Gardner and Caver never did one remarkable thing as Eagles, and they were both 2nd rounders.

Quote from: MURP on May 05, 2006, 10:37:39 AM

QuoteNate Wayne, Barry Gardner, Quinton Caver

does anyone else feel sick when reading that? :puke

QuotePatriots sign LBs Barry Gardner and Jeremy Loyd   

The Patriots added a pair of linebackers to the roster today by signing veterans Barry Gardner and Jeremy Loyd.

The New England Patriots signed veteran free agent linebackers Barry Gardner and Jeremy Loyd this afternoon. Terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

Gardner, 29, joins the Patriots for his eighth NFL season after previously playing for the Philadelphia Eagles (1999-2002), Cleveland Browns (2003-04) and New York Jets (2005). The 6-foot-1-inch, 245-pound linebacker has played in 110 career games with  24 starts and has recorded 186 career tackles (130 solo), two sacks, one interception, seven passes defensed , three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Additionally, the Northwestern product has made 92 career special teams tackles. Last season with the Jets, Gardner played in all 16 games with one start. He set career highs with 13 starts and 57 tackles with the Eagles in 2000. The Harvey, Ill. native was originally drafted by Philadelphia in the second round (35th overall) of the 1999 NFL Draft. He signed with the Browns as an unrestricted free agent on March 14, 2003 and joined the Jets as an unrestricted free agent on March 11, 2005. Gardner was released by the Jets on Feb. 22, 2006.

Loyd, 25, will enter his third full NFL season in 2006 after spending portions of the last three seasons with the St. Louis Rams (2003-05). The 6-foot-2-inch, 235-pound linebacker has played in 14 career NFL games and has recorded 10 special teams tackles and no defensive statistics. Loyd was originally signed by the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted rookie free agent on June 2, 2003. He was released by the Browns following 2003 training camp and signed to the Rams� practice squad on Sept. 10, 2003. St. Louis then signed him to its active roster five days later and he participated in 10 games as a rookie in 2003. He missed the entire 2004 campaign on injured reserve and was released by the Rams following 2005 training camp on Aug. 31, 2005. Loyd was later re-signed by St. Louis and played in the final four games of the 2005 season, recording four special teams tackles.

QuoteGiants | Arrington explains why team moved him to strongside
Tue, 9 May 2006 23:22:09 -0700

Mike Garafalo, of the Newark Star-Ledger, reports New York Giants LB LaVar Arrington explained why the team is moving him to strongside linebacker. He said defensive coordinator Tim Lewis wants him closer to the ball and Arrington added, "Coach Lewis wants me closer to the ball, which means I'm closer to the quarterback. Closer to the quarterback means ... well, you know what that means. Hopefully, that equates to the quarterback going down."

Quote from: Geowhizzer on May 22, 2006, 09:00:34 PM
Lions release Dan "Big Daddy" Wilkinson (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2454101&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)

Quote
Giants to release Peterson
Giants cornerback Will Peterson, who has suffered a series of back injuries in the last three years, has been told by the team he will be released soon because he failed a physical, according to someone who recently spoke to Peterson.

The person requested anonymity because the move won't be official until the team files it with the league.

Peterson, the Giants' third-round pick in 2001, was placed on injured reserve in 2003 with a stress fracture in his back. He did not experience any problems the following season, but developed hot spots close to his previous stress fracture last year. He was kept on the active roster until December, when he was placed on injured reserve.

The Giants made several additions to the secondary this off-season partly because they were uncertain if Peterson would return this year. They signed cornerbacks Sam Madison and R.W. McQuarters while adding a few more rookie corners in the draft and as free agents.

Peterson signed a five-year contract extension before the 2004 regular season. It is unclear at this point how much his release will cost against the salary cap.

Contributed by Mike Garafolo

Quote from: Geowhizzer on May 22, 2006, 09:00:34 PM
Lions release Dan "Big Daddy" Wilkinson (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2454101&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)

Quote from: Father Demon on September 05, 2006, 10:44:19 AM
All I need is a bunch of these asshats giving me shtein because he works out great for them....