1) He Gets Paid How Much?
#3 overall pick Matt Ryan becomes the highest paid QB in the NFL without ever taking a snap. How can that be? It is so ridiculous the money being shelled out to unproven players, with no apparent letup. No wonder so many players are holding out for more money, when the rookies make more than Pro Bowlers. I have to continue a chorus for NFL rookies to be paid a set amount in their first season, have it increase perhaps on the basis of starts for the second year and then renegotiate for the third. That way the risk of a bust is less of a financial issue and more of a football issue.
2) Morgan Hangs Up his Boots
Injury has finally derailed the career of LB Dan Morgan, who after a number of injury plagued years in Carolina, was released and signed by New Orleans, but Morgan has continued to have health issues and finally pulled the plug. A pity for both Morgan and New Orleans.
3) CBA Dilemma
An unresolved CBA setup means that teams will have to make some changes when they look to spread money over forward years, with only the next two years able to be charged without a CBA extension. No fear of strike looms as all parties want things to progress.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Sunday, May 18, 2008
17 MAY - 2008
1) Perrilloux Heads to the Gamecocks
Not the SC Gamecocks, instead former LSU QB Ryan Perrilloux is headed to Jacksonville State University in Alabama, where he will have 2 years of eligibility for a fresh start. Coaches there will obviously be pleased to pick up a Div 1 talent, and after extensive background checks, seem satisfied with having Perrilloux get his second chance with them.
2) Contract Talks Underway
First round draft picks have mostly had their first taste at mini-camps and OTAs, and now contract talks will commence. With only Jake Long under contract, draftees' agents will be busy working on deals to have them in camp on time. QBs Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco appear to be two players keen to get their deals down swiftly, with RB Darren McFadden also suggesting he is not interested in any prolonged negotiations. We will see how quickly things develop.
3) Belichick Coaching Genius, but Lying Novice
Amidst the spygate dramas, Bill Belichick has acknowledged some wrong doing in the filming process, called Matt Walsh a 'nobody' but is yet to take full responsibility, suggesting he didn't realise that much of it was going on, or that it was the wrong thing to do. Even Roger Goodell has stated that he has dismissed Belichick's claims. Perhaps the coach of decade has spent to long with his head inside his fleecy hood to get a reality check.
Not the SC Gamecocks, instead former LSU QB Ryan Perrilloux is headed to Jacksonville State University in Alabama, where he will have 2 years of eligibility for a fresh start. Coaches there will obviously be pleased to pick up a Div 1 talent, and after extensive background checks, seem satisfied with having Perrilloux get his second chance with them.
2) Contract Talks Underway
First round draft picks have mostly had their first taste at mini-camps and OTAs, and now contract talks will commence. With only Jake Long under contract, draftees' agents will be busy working on deals to have them in camp on time. QBs Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco appear to be two players keen to get their deals down swiftly, with RB Darren McFadden also suggesting he is not interested in any prolonged negotiations. We will see how quickly things develop.
3) Belichick Coaching Genius, but Lying Novice
Amidst the spygate dramas, Bill Belichick has acknowledged some wrong doing in the filming process, called Matt Walsh a 'nobody' but is yet to take full responsibility, suggesting he didn't realise that much of it was going on, or that it was the wrong thing to do. Even Roger Goodell has stated that he has dismissed Belichick's claims. Perhaps the coach of decade has spent to long with his head inside his fleecy hood to get a reality check.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
10 MAY - 2008
1) Perrilloux Heading to FCS
After being dispatched by LSU, troubled QB Ryan Perrilloux looks likely to continue his collegiate career in the FCS, with Jacksonville State, Jackson St and other chasing his arm. All are preaching 'second chance' publicly, but the reality is they are really thinking D1 arm and wins. Who knows if he can keep it together without the lure of the big-time program.
2) Brawling in Baltimore
Mini-Camp is certainly a time for competition amongst players, but fisticuffs on the training paddock probably was the intense competition new Ravens coach John Harbaugh was expecting. Rookie OL Oniel Cousins showed his mean streak defening his running back Allen Patrick after what was considered an unnecessarily hard take down by Amon Gordon. Later CBs Frank Walker and Corey Ivy scuffled. Lucky none of the guys from 'The U' got involved, who know how that might have ended.
3) Another Chance for Robinson?
This time it was the numbers game that send Koren Robinson out the team door. The Packers had shown good faith and given the former first round pick an opportunity to get back into the NFL after disappointing seasons in Seattle and Minnesota marred by off-field issues. But with too many WR on the roster, the Pack sent him packing. Teams needed a return man and an option in the passing game could be in the market, with someone like Dallas, Oakland or even back in Seattle a chance.
After being dispatched by LSU, troubled QB Ryan Perrilloux looks likely to continue his collegiate career in the FCS, with Jacksonville State, Jackson St and other chasing his arm. All are preaching 'second chance' publicly, but the reality is they are really thinking D1 arm and wins. Who knows if he can keep it together without the lure of the big-time program.
2) Brawling in Baltimore
Mini-Camp is certainly a time for competition amongst players, but fisticuffs on the training paddock probably was the intense competition new Ravens coach John Harbaugh was expecting. Rookie OL Oniel Cousins showed his mean streak defening his running back Allen Patrick after what was considered an unnecessarily hard take down by Amon Gordon. Later CBs Frank Walker and Corey Ivy scuffled. Lucky none of the guys from 'The U' got involved, who know how that might have ended.
3) Another Chance for Robinson?
This time it was the numbers game that send Koren Robinson out the team door. The Packers had shown good faith and given the former first round pick an opportunity to get back into the NFL after disappointing seasons in Seattle and Minnesota marred by off-field issues. But with too many WR on the roster, the Pack sent him packing. Teams needed a return man and an option in the passing game could be in the market, with someone like Dallas, Oakland or even back in Seattle a chance.
Friday, May 9, 2008
8 MAY - 2008
1) Rhodes Return
In yet another move of a veteran back to their original club, RB Dominic Rhodes will rejoin the Colts after a disappointing season in Oakland. After helping the Colts win the Superbowl, Rhodes cashed in with the Raiders in free agency, but was found to be the odd man out in Oakland after the drafting of Darren McFadden. Rhodes can join Joseph Addai, draft pick Mike Hart and last year's backup Kenton Keith in a stronger backfield rotation.
2) Alexander Getting Around
It was always rumoured that some teams would have strong interest in former league MVP RB Shaun Alexander following his exit from Seattle. I suggested at the time that New Orleans or Tampa would be possible destinations. Well, New Orleans has been on the tour list, after an earlier meeting with Cincinnati. Don't discount a run from Detroit who needs more depth.
3) Henry Headed Where?
With a lawsuit hanging over him, but no current uniform hanging in the cupboard, former Bengals WR Chris Henry is looking for a new place to play. Henry has publicly stated New Orleans and Dallas as his ideal teams. I don't imagine NOLA is interested with a strong corps in place (look for 7th round pick Adrian Arrington to make the roster), but Dallas could be a chance. They need another speed option and wouldn't the pairing of Pacman and Chris Henry do wonders for the morale of the PR department. Don't rule out the Bucs who are in need of a big play guy.
In yet another move of a veteran back to their original club, RB Dominic Rhodes will rejoin the Colts after a disappointing season in Oakland. After helping the Colts win the Superbowl, Rhodes cashed in with the Raiders in free agency, but was found to be the odd man out in Oakland after the drafting of Darren McFadden. Rhodes can join Joseph Addai, draft pick Mike Hart and last year's backup Kenton Keith in a stronger backfield rotation.
2) Alexander Getting Around
It was always rumoured that some teams would have strong interest in former league MVP RB Shaun Alexander following his exit from Seattle. I suggested at the time that New Orleans or Tampa would be possible destinations. Well, New Orleans has been on the tour list, after an earlier meeting with Cincinnati. Don't discount a run from Detroit who needs more depth.
3) Henry Headed Where?
With a lawsuit hanging over him, but no current uniform hanging in the cupboard, former Bengals WR Chris Henry is looking for a new place to play. Henry has publicly stated New Orleans and Dallas as his ideal teams. I don't imagine NOLA is interested with a strong corps in place (look for 7th round pick Adrian Arrington to make the roster), but Dallas could be a chance. They need another speed option and wouldn't the pairing of Pacman and Chris Henry do wonders for the morale of the PR department. Don't rule out the Bucs who are in need of a big play guy.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
3 MAY - 2008
1) Perrilloux Booted
Four Heismans hey...Former LSU QB Ryan Perrilloux won't win any after being kicked off the LSU football team for more off-field problems. The latest report is a failed drug test. Perrilloux will now likely transfer to a FCS school for two remaining years of eligibility. He has the talent, but know how to squander it well.
2) Mallett to Spectate
NCAA officials denied an application for the Michigan Transfer to play this season at Arkansas. Mallett, who transferred predictably after the hiring of Rich Rodriguez in Ann Arbor, hoped that special circumstances would allow him to start straight away, but no such luck. With Bobby Petrino's track record, the Razorbacks could be looking for a new coach by the time Mallett plays. Perhaps one that runs the spread with a running QB.
3) 2009 Mock Draft?
Not from me this early. Kiper and McShay are already onto it, plotting redshirt sophomores like Knowshon Moreno and Michael Crabtree on the board. So far off, so ridiculous. Even predicting the NFL order of finish as they have is laughable. Sure, get the Top 25 board moving, but beyond that...By the way, I am predicting Peyton Manning's son to be the #1 pick in 2032. I said it here first!
Four Heismans hey...Former LSU QB Ryan Perrilloux won't win any after being kicked off the LSU football team for more off-field problems. The latest report is a failed drug test. Perrilloux will now likely transfer to a FCS school for two remaining years of eligibility. He has the talent, but know how to squander it well.
2) Mallett to Spectate
NCAA officials denied an application for the Michigan Transfer to play this season at Arkansas. Mallett, who transferred predictably after the hiring of Rich Rodriguez in Ann Arbor, hoped that special circumstances would allow him to start straight away, but no such luck. With Bobby Petrino's track record, the Razorbacks could be looking for a new coach by the time Mallett plays. Perhaps one that runs the spread with a running QB.
3) 2009 Mock Draft?
Not from me this early. Kiper and McShay are already onto it, plotting redshirt sophomores like Knowshon Moreno and Michael Crabtree on the board. So far off, so ridiculous. Even predicting the NFL order of finish as they have is laughable. Sure, get the Top 25 board moving, but beyond that...By the way, I am predicting Peyton Manning's son to be the #1 pick in 2032. I said it here first!
Saturday, May 3, 2008
2 MaAY- 2008
1) Winners and Losers
Many people are quick to brand a team winners/losers in their draft class based on their selections. How anyone could possibly make such an assertation at this point seems ridiculous. So, here are my winners and losers based on how teams addressed needs and god value. Winners - Kansas City, Carolina, Miami. The Chiefs were stocked with picks after the Jared Allen trade, but used them wisely. By getting Glen Dorsey to sure up the DL at #5 was amazing, moving back into the 1st to pick up Brandon Albert equally impressive, and with Brandon Flowers getting the nod in the second, a solid first day. Some will argue that with Brohm and Henne available in the second, they should have pulled the trigger, but faith in Brodie Croyle is strong it appears. Carolina mightn't have been in the winners section if they hadn't gotten back into the first round. Jonathon Stewart is a top back with their first-first rounder. But with other needs, the Panthers went OL and brought in Jeff Otah to ensure blocking up front matches the talented backfield. Miami were under the microscope with first overall pick, but taking Jake Long was a safe and smart choice. Getting Phillip Merling at the top of the second and then Chad Henne later in the round was huge. All three should be opening day starters. Losers - Jets, Ravens, Bears. The Jets should have taken Brohm or Henne. Simple. They reached for Dustin Keller, but Gholston will need to pan out. So will Pennington or Clemens. The Ravens wanted a QB and got him. But they could have played it smarter. Trading back from #8 to get a QB was perfect. Trading up from 26 to 18 to get him was not smart. Nobody else was going to get him. Most teams had Brohm and Henne ahead of Flacco. Bears whiffed on WR and QB help. No QB's at all, no high WR. OL was a need and was addressed. Matt Forte should be a good player, but there were some key skill positions left exposed.
2) Opening Mini-Camps
The picks are now under scrutiny of the public and media as the rookie mini-camps opened up. My main focus...who is wearing which number? Jake Long it appears will wear 79 in Miami, whilst Henne gets to keep #7. D-Mac will wear the #20 in Oakland, hopefully trying to channel Barry Sanders. Matt Ryan goes for #2 in Atlanta, Dorsey remains 72 as Albert remains 76 in KC. Gholston will look to be the next coming of LT or Shaun Merriman in 56 for the Jets. Trivial, but interesting.
3) Shepherd Attends Mini-Camps
With a trade still on the cards, Shepherd has done what many won't - attend mini-camp. Who knows, he may remain in Philly, bu until anything happens, he is playing the professional!
Many people are quick to brand a team winners/losers in their draft class based on their selections. How anyone could possibly make such an assertation at this point seems ridiculous. So, here are my winners and losers based on how teams addressed needs and god value. Winners - Kansas City, Carolina, Miami. The Chiefs were stocked with picks after the Jared Allen trade, but used them wisely. By getting Glen Dorsey to sure up the DL at #5 was amazing, moving back into the 1st to pick up Brandon Albert equally impressive, and with Brandon Flowers getting the nod in the second, a solid first day. Some will argue that with Brohm and Henne available in the second, they should have pulled the trigger, but faith in Brodie Croyle is strong it appears. Carolina mightn't have been in the winners section if they hadn't gotten back into the first round. Jonathon Stewart is a top back with their first-first rounder. But with other needs, the Panthers went OL and brought in Jeff Otah to ensure blocking up front matches the talented backfield. Miami were under the microscope with first overall pick, but taking Jake Long was a safe and smart choice. Getting Phillip Merling at the top of the second and then Chad Henne later in the round was huge. All three should be opening day starters. Losers - Jets, Ravens, Bears. The Jets should have taken Brohm or Henne. Simple. They reached for Dustin Keller, but Gholston will need to pan out. So will Pennington or Clemens. The Ravens wanted a QB and got him. But they could have played it smarter. Trading back from #8 to get a QB was perfect. Trading up from 26 to 18 to get him was not smart. Nobody else was going to get him. Most teams had Brohm and Henne ahead of Flacco. Bears whiffed on WR and QB help. No QB's at all, no high WR. OL was a need and was addressed. Matt Forte should be a good player, but there were some key skill positions left exposed.
2) Opening Mini-Camps
The picks are now under scrutiny of the public and media as the rookie mini-camps opened up. My main focus...who is wearing which number? Jake Long it appears will wear 79 in Miami, whilst Henne gets to keep #7. D-Mac will wear the #20 in Oakland, hopefully trying to channel Barry Sanders. Matt Ryan goes for #2 in Atlanta, Dorsey remains 72 as Albert remains 76 in KC. Gholston will look to be the next coming of LT or Shaun Merriman in 56 for the Jets. Trivial, but interesting.
3) Shepherd Attends Mini-Camps
With a trade still on the cards, Shepherd has done what many won't - attend mini-camp. Who knows, he may remain in Philly, bu until anything happens, he is playing the professional!
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