After trading a 2008 3rd round pick and cornerback Leigh Bodden for defensive tackle Shaun Rogers, the Cleveland Browns have now renegotiated his contract and awarded him a new 6-year $42 million deal that will keep him with the Browns until 2013 (or until they cut him). According to John Clayton of ESPN, the deal includes $20 million of guaranteed money, and is expected to pay out $23 million over the next 3 years.
The move is a risky one by the Browns, who in the past week have shelled out a combined $80 million for the next 6 year on two defensive tackles ($42 million for Rogers, and $38 million for Corey Williams). Rogers is one failed steroid/performance enhancing drug test away from a year long suspension, as he has already served a 4-game suspension in 2006 for a failed test, allegedly due to taking a banned appetite suppressant to help control his weight and an existing medical condition.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
White Sox Tab Steve Stone As Radio Color Analyst For 2008 Season
The Chicago White Sox have announced the hiring of Steve Stone as their full-time radio color analyst for the 2008 baseball season. Former Sox radio color analyst Chris Singleton recently vacated the position to join ESPN's "Basebeball Tonight" show, and Sox play-by-play man Ed Farmer will retain his duties.
Stone worked as a color commentator for the Chicago Cubs TV broadcasts on WGN for 19 years, before his left the team three years ago. He criticized the mangement and coaching of the Cubs in a postgame broadcast in October of 2004, and then after a meeting with then Cubs president Andy McPhail, GM Jim Hendry, and manager Dusty Baker, Stone left the team after a difference of broadcasting opinion, with his on-air opinion seemingly costing him his job. He was quoted at the time as saying, "You want the truth. You can't handle the truth. The truth of this situation is an extremely talented bunch of guys who want to look at all directions except where they should really look and kind of make excuses for what happened. At the end of the day, boys, don't tell me how rough the water is, you bring in the ship." He has since worked as a baseball analyst for Chicago radio station WSCR 670 (The Score), and occasionally working on ESPN baseball broadcasts.
Stone worked as a color commentator for the Chicago Cubs TV broadcasts on WGN for 19 years, before his left the team three years ago. He criticized the mangement and coaching of the Cubs in a postgame broadcast in October of 2004, and then after a meeting with then Cubs president Andy McPhail, GM Jim Hendry, and manager Dusty Baker, Stone left the team after a difference of broadcasting opinion, with his on-air opinion seemingly costing him his job. He was quoted at the time as saying, "You want the truth. You can't handle the truth. The truth of this situation is an extremely talented bunch of guys who want to look at all directions except where they should really look and kind of make excuses for what happened. At the end of the day, boys, don't tell me how rough the water is, you bring in the ship." He has since worked as a baseball analyst for Chicago radio station WSCR 670 (The Score), and occasionally working on ESPN baseball broadcasts.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Patriots Retain Jabar Gaffney With 1-Year $2 Million Deal
After losing Donte Stallworth to the Cleveland Browns earlier in the week, the New England Patriots today re-signed wideout Jabar Gaffney to a 1-year $2 million contract. This, paired with the re-signing of Randy Moss, Kelley Washington, and the acquisition of Sam Aiken, leave the Patriots with their receiver core in pretty good shape heading into next season, as they still have slot man Wes Welker under contract for 4 more years as well.
Bears Bring Back Booker For 2 Years, Decline to Match Jags Offer to DT Kennedy
Having recently cut veteran wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad and letting Bernard Berrian seek out an exhorbitant deal via free agency, the Chicago Bears had a couple of roster spots open up this last week, and today filled one of them by signing free agent wideout Marty Booker to a 2-year deal for $3.5 million total. This will be Booker's second tour of duty with the Bears, who he played for from 1999-2004, before being traded to the Miami Dolphins in a deal that brought the Bears defensive end Adewale Ogunleye. The Dolphins recently cut Booker, who was in the last year of a 7-year $28 million contract he originally signed with Chicago in 2002.
The Bears also notified the agent for defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy that they will not match the Jacksonville Jaguars' 1-year $655,000 offer (including a $50K signing bonus). The Bears held the right of first refusal due to a clause they inserted in his contract last year when they signed Kennedy off the scrap heap. Kennedy came into the league as a 1st round pick by the Rams in the 2003 NFL Draft, and was quickly declared a bust. He was traded to the Broncos for a 6th round pick on June 8 2007, and then was cut September 1. Needing help at the tackle position because of injuries, the Bears signed him to a deal for the rest of the season, and Kennedy went on to contribute next to nothing in 3 games with Chicago, notching 0 sacks, 0 solo tackles and 2 assisting tackles.
The Bears also notified the agent for defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy that they will not match the Jacksonville Jaguars' 1-year $655,000 offer (including a $50K signing bonus). The Bears held the right of first refusal due to a clause they inserted in his contract last year when they signed Kennedy off the scrap heap. Kennedy came into the league as a 1st round pick by the Rams in the 2003 NFL Draft, and was quickly declared a bust. He was traded to the Broncos for a 6th round pick on June 8 2007, and then was cut September 1. Needing help at the tackle position because of injuries, the Bears signed him to a deal for the rest of the season, and Kennedy went on to contribute next to nothing in 3 games with Chicago, notching 0 sacks, 0 solo tackles and 2 assisting tackles.
Javon Walker Cashes In With Raiders, Signing 6-year $55 Deal
In another unimpressive offseason move, the Oakland Raiders have signed unrestricted free agent wideout Javon Walker to a stunning 6-year $55 million contract that includes $16 million in guarantees, and will pay out approximately $27 million over the first 3 years of the deal. The move is the latest in a series of stunningly bad contracts doled out by Oakland over the past week.
Long on potential, but short on production, Walker has been limited to just 25 games the past 3 years, due to a torn ACL in 2005 and recurring knee problems that required a second and third surgery in 2007. Unhappy in Green Bay and wanting a new contract in early 2006, Walker was traded by the Packers to the Denver Broncos for a 2nd round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. He then signed a 5-year $40 million contract, in which he collected over $16 million the past 2 years, before declaring his unhappiness with the Broncos, and asking to be traded. Unable to find a trade partner before a March 4th roster bonus of $5.4 million was due, the Broncos cut Walker, who now latches on with the perennially dysfunctional AFC West rival Oakland Raiders. $9.16 million per year is an absurd amount to pay for someone who's generally regarded as a clown, and who hasn't demonstrated he can stay healthy and provide a consistent explosive threat and Pro Bowl caliber talent for a team for longer than a year.
Long on potential, but short on production, Walker has been limited to just 25 games the past 3 years, due to a torn ACL in 2005 and recurring knee problems that required a second and third surgery in 2007. Unhappy in Green Bay and wanting a new contract in early 2006, Walker was traded by the Packers to the Denver Broncos for a 2nd round pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. He then signed a 5-year $40 million contract, in which he collected over $16 million the past 2 years, before declaring his unhappiness with the Broncos, and asking to be traded. Unable to find a trade partner before a March 4th roster bonus of $5.4 million was due, the Broncos cut Walker, who now latches on with the perennially dysfunctional AFC West rival Oakland Raiders. $9.16 million per year is an absurd amount to pay for someone who's generally regarded as a clown, and who hasn't demonstrated he can stay healthy and provide a consistent explosive threat and Pro Bowl caliber talent for a team for longer than a year.
Seahawks Sign RB Duckett For 5 Years, TE Jeb Putzier For 1 Year
In an attempt to bolster a rushing attack that ranked 20th in the league last year, the Seattle Seahawks have signed unrestricted free agent running back TJ Duckett to a 5-year contract for an undisclosed amount. Duckett joins Shaun Alexander and Maurice Morris in the backfield for Seattle, where the rushing attack was once a strength but is now a liability.
Seattle signed running back Shaun Alexander to a 8-year $62 million contract on March 6, 2006, but since then he has been plagued by injuries and ineffectiveness, starting just 20 games since signing his big new deal, averaging just 3.51 yards per carry. Maurice Morris signed a 3-year $3.75 million contract on March 27, 2006, and was fairly productive in filling in for Alexander, but probably wouldn't be able to carry the load himself over a 16-game schedule. Per Mike Florio of PFT, rumors swirled around the combine that Alexander could be dumped sometime this offseason, and this latest signing could hasten his departure. Seattle could probably get at least the same production of last year if they burn a mid round draft pick on a new running back, and use a combination of Morris, Duckett, and aforementioned draft pick in 2008.
The Seahawks also announced the signing of tight end Jeb Putzier to a 1-year contract for an unspecified amount. Putzier will compete with Will Heller and presumably a draft pick for playing time in 2008.
Seattle signed running back Shaun Alexander to a 8-year $62 million contract on March 6, 2006, but since then he has been plagued by injuries and ineffectiveness, starting just 20 games since signing his big new deal, averaging just 3.51 yards per carry. Maurice Morris signed a 3-year $3.75 million contract on March 27, 2006, and was fairly productive in filling in for Alexander, but probably wouldn't be able to carry the load himself over a 16-game schedule. Per Mike Florio of PFT, rumors swirled around the combine that Alexander could be dumped sometime this offseason, and this latest signing could hasten his departure. Seattle could probably get at least the same production of last year if they burn a mid round draft pick on a new running back, and use a combination of Morris, Duckett, and aforementioned draft pick in 2008.
The Seahawks also announced the signing of tight end Jeb Putzier to a 1-year contract for an unspecified amount. Putzier will compete with Will Heller and presumably a draft pick for playing time in 2008.
Warren Sapp Officially Retires After 13-Year Hall of Fame Bound Career
Defensive tackle Warren Sapp has officially filed his retirement paperwork with the NFL, more than two months after he told teammates he would retire following the close of the season. The move will free up about $4 million in salary cap space for the Raiders.
Sapp played the last 4 seasons with the Oakland Raiders, after spending the previous 9 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including a Super Bowl win against the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII. He will be remembered as one of, if not the premier "three technique" defensive tackle in NFL history.
Originally one of the top prospects in the 1995 NFL Draft, Sapp slid on draft day amid concerns he had smoked pot in college, and that infatuation with Mary Jane use might affect his future NFL performance. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers nabbed him with the 12th overall pick in the 1st round, and he went on to be a 7-time Pro Bowl selection, and 6-time NFL All-Pro selection, and was awarded the 1999 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Sapp will leave the game with 573 tackles and 96.5 sacks, good for second most in NFL history by a defensive tackle, only behind John Randle.
Sapp played the last 4 seasons with the Oakland Raiders, after spending the previous 9 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including a Super Bowl win against the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII. He will be remembered as one of, if not the premier "three technique" defensive tackle in NFL history.
Originally one of the top prospects in the 1995 NFL Draft, Sapp slid on draft day amid concerns he had smoked pot in college, and that infatuation with Mary Jane use might affect his future NFL performance. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers nabbed him with the 12th overall pick in the 1st round, and he went on to be a 7-time Pro Bowl selection, and 6-time NFL All-Pro selection, and was awarded the 1999 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Sapp will leave the game with 573 tackles and 96.5 sacks, good for second most in NFL history by a defensive tackle, only behind John Randle.
Rockies Lock Up Hawpe With 3-Year $17.425 Million Deal
The Colorado Rockies are attempting to lock up their young nucleus that helped them get to the World Series last year, and today agreed to a 3-year contract with outfielder Brad Hawpe that will be worth $17.425 million. The deal will keep him with the team through 2010, and there is also a team option for 2011. Hawpe hit .291 last year, with 29 home runs and 116 RBIs (both career highs).
Hawpe is the latest young player the Rockies have locked up for the near future. They have recently agreed to deals with pitcher Aaron Cook (4 years, $34.5 million), outfielder Matt Holiday (2 years, $23 million), shortstop Troy Tulowitzki (6 years, $31 million), and closer Manny Corpas (4 years, $8.025 million). Similar to the Eagles or Patriots in the NFL, the Rockies have been extremely smart about locking up and rewarding their core young players early, and not letting them hit the market to sign overpriced deals.
Hawpe is the latest young player the Rockies have locked up for the near future. They have recently agreed to deals with pitcher Aaron Cook (4 years, $34.5 million), outfielder Matt Holiday (2 years, $23 million), shortstop Troy Tulowitzki (6 years, $31 million), and closer Manny Corpas (4 years, $8.025 million). Similar to the Eagles or Patriots in the NFL, the Rockies have been extremely smart about locking up and rewarding their core young players early, and not letting them hit the market to sign overpriced deals.
Seahawks Hire Mike DeBord As Offensive Assistant
The Seattle Seahawks have announced the hiring of Mike DeBord to their coaching staff, but have not announced his official position, or the length of the deal. It has been speculated that it is a multi-year deal, and that he will either serve as the running backs coach or an "offensive assistant coach."
DeBord has spent been a coach in the collegiate ranks since 1987, including two stints as the offensive coordinator for the University of Michigan from 1997-1999, and 2006-2007. After the 1999 season he left to take the head coaching job at Central Mighigan, until he resigned after the 2003 season and returned to Michigan as an assistant. The Detroit Free Press has an interesting full writeup found here.
DeBord has spent been a coach in the collegiate ranks since 1987, including two stints as the offensive coordinator for the University of Michigan from 1997-1999, and 2006-2007. After the 1999 season he left to take the head coaching job at Central Mighigan, until he resigned after the 2003 season and returned to Michigan as an assistant. The Detroit Free Press has an interesting full writeup found here.
Favre Packs It In
Living legend Brett Favre has called it quits from the NFL and the Green Bay Packers, according to numerous reports from media outlets in both Mississippi and nationally. Having waffled over retirement the past few years, Favre has decided to hang up the cleats for good, and goes out on his own terms, holding most of the NFL's career passing records. Favre will leave the game holding the records for most career touchdowns (442), interceptions (288), pass attempts (8,758), completions (5,377), yards (61,655), and games with at least 3 touchdowns (63), wins by a starting quaterback (160). Favre will go down as the NFL's "Iron Man," as he also holds the record for most consecutive games started by a quarterback (253 games), which ranks second at all positions only to defensive end Jim Marshall (270 games).When NFL historians look back at the career of Favre, they will see the NFL's only 3 time MVP winner, and a man who overcame substance addiction and personal loss on his way to eventually becoming the League's most prolific passer in history. Adored by Green Bay fans, and hated by Chicago Bears fans, who he continually tormented in his personal domination of the Bears, Favre lead the Packers to two Super Bowls, including a win in Super Bowl XXXI. He was a 9 time Pro Bowler, and was elected to the NFL's distinguished All-Pro team a whopping 7 times.
Favre's departure leaves former 2005 1st round draft pick Aaron Rodgers as the starting quaterback for the Pack, and journeyman Craig Nall as the backup. Rodgers has appeared in 7 games, mostly in mop-up or injury relief duty, and completed 35 of 59 passes for 1 touchdown and 1 interception, good for a 73.3 quarterback rating. A broken foot in 2006 and 2007 will raise questions about the durability of Rodgers, but now is his chance to shine. Favre was scheduled to count against the 2008 salary cap for $12.8 million ($12 million base salary, $800K prorated signing bonus), so the Packers will gain the $12 million minus the prorated signing bonus amount, and are now under the projected $116 million salary cap for 2008 by about $36 million.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Bengals Sign DE Odom to 5-Year $30 Million Deal, With $11 Million Guaranteed
After 'losing' defensive end Justin Smith via free agency earlier in the week, the Cincinatti Bengals quickly to sign unrestricted defensive end Antwan Odom to a 5-year $30 million contract, including $11 million in guarantees. In his first season as a starter with the Tennessee Titans last year, Odom rang up 21 tackles, 8 sacks, and a team high 29 quarterback pressures. He will be looked upon to help a lousy Cincinatti defense that generated a paltry 22 sacks, good for last in the League.
Odom was a 2nd round draft pick out of Alabama in 2004, and He had the benefit of constantly seeing single blocks, as opposite Pro Bowl defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch was often drawing double teams, as was Pro Bowl defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. For his 4 year career, Odom has appeared in 52 games, including 32 starts, and has totaled only 82 tackles and 12.5 sacks.
To fill the void left by Odom's departure, the Titans will probably draft another defensive end or two in the upcoming NFL Draft in April, and will rely more on third year man Sean Conover. Based on the size of the contract and assumed playing time for Odom, the Titans are probably at looking at receiving a 4th or 5th round pick (in the 2009 Draft) from the NFL when they award compensatory draft picks later this year.
Odom was a 2nd round draft pick out of Alabama in 2004, and He had the benefit of constantly seeing single blocks, as opposite Pro Bowl defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch was often drawing double teams, as was Pro Bowl defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. For his 4 year career, Odom has appeared in 52 games, including 32 starts, and has totaled only 82 tackles and 12.5 sacks.
To fill the void left by Odom's departure, the Titans will probably draft another defensive end or two in the upcoming NFL Draft in April, and will rely more on third year man Sean Conover. Based on the size of the contract and assumed playing time for Odom, the Titans are probably at looking at receiving a 4th or 5th round pick (in the 2009 Draft) from the NFL when they award compensatory draft picks later this year.
Jets Snare LB Pace With Monster 6-Year $42 Million Contract
The New York Jets continue to spend big bucks in an effort to get back to the playoffs, this time reaching a 6-year $42 million deal with linebacker/defensive end Calvin Pace. According to agent Pat Dye Jr. of ProFiles Sports Management, the deal will include a $20 million signing bonus, and total guarantees of $22 million. The contract will pay Pace $26 million over the first 3 years, making him one of the NFL's highest paid linebackers in history, even though he has done little in the NFL to merit such a deal.
Pace was a 1st round pick by the Cardinals in the 2003 NFL Draft, and has spent time at defensive end and outside linebacker, starting 38 games in his 5 years with Arizona. Last year was his best season, when he notched 98 tackles, 6.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception. For his career, Pace only has 186 tackles and 14 sacks, so $7 million per year seems pretty outrageous for limited production, especially if the Cardinals, whose defense isn't that great to begin with, didn't make a play to lock him up long term. If perenial Pro Bowler Lance Briggs could only get $6 million per year, there's no way Calvin Pace is worth that type of coin.
Pace was a 1st round pick by the Cardinals in the 2003 NFL Draft, and has spent time at defensive end and outside linebacker, starting 38 games in his 5 years with Arizona. Last year was his best season, when he notched 98 tackles, 6.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception. For his career, Pace only has 186 tackles and 14 sacks, so $7 million per year seems pretty outrageous for limited production, especially if the Cardinals, whose defense isn't that great to begin with, didn't make a play to lock him up long term. If perenial Pro Bowler Lance Briggs could only get $6 million per year, there's no way Calvin Pace is worth that type of coin.
Bears Dump Griese On Bucs For Conditional 6th Round Draft Pick
Having recently re-signed both quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Rex Grossman to compete for the starting nod in 2008, the Chicago Bears have managed to potentially get something of value for backup quarterback Brian Griese before cutting him. Griese, who is due a $300,000 roster bonus March 4th, was traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a conditional draft choice. Specific terms of the deal were not released, but it is most likely a scenario where the Bears will get a 6th or 7th round pick in 2009 if Griese makes the 2008 Bucs opening day roster, and will get nothing if he doesn't.
The move leaves Chicago with Orton and Grossman as the only quarterbacks on the roster, so look for them to bring in another young QB to develop in the mid to late rounds of this year's upcoming NFL Draft.
Meanwhile, Jon Gruden and Tampa Bay continue to collect quarterbacks like they are trading cards. This will represent Griese's second stint with the team, and he will compete with Jeff Garcia, Bruce Gradkowski, Chris Simms, and Luke McCown for playing time. The Bucs also have the rights to former Denver Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer, who probably won't be returning to the NFL anytime soon.
UPDATE 03/04/2008 8:34 AM: Brad Biggs of the Chicago Sun Times reports that the deal is for a conditional 6th round pick.
The move leaves Chicago with Orton and Grossman as the only quarterbacks on the roster, so look for them to bring in another young QB to develop in the mid to late rounds of this year's upcoming NFL Draft.
Meanwhile, Jon Gruden and Tampa Bay continue to collect quarterbacks like they are trading cards. This will represent Griese's second stint with the team, and he will compete with Jeff Garcia, Bruce Gradkowski, Chris Simms, and Luke McCown for playing time. The Bucs also have the rights to former Denver Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer, who probably won't be returning to the NFL anytime soon.
UPDATE 03/04/2008 8:34 AM: Brad Biggs of the Chicago Sun Times reports that the deal is for a conditional 6th round pick.
Patriots Officially Re-Sign Moss to 3-Year $27 Million Deal
Adam Schefter of NFL Network reports that the New England Patriots have officially re-signed Pro Bowl wide receiver Randy Moss to a 3-year $27 million contract. The Pats elected not to use the franchise tag on the mercurial wideout, and after Moss didn't find another offer when the free agency period opened up, ultimately ended up coming back to the Patriots to team up with quarterback Tom Brady for another run at the Super Bowl.
The troubled superstar receiver set the NFL record for touchdown catches in a season last year, hauling in 23 TDs, helping New England break the all time record for points in a season. Moss just finished a 1-year $3.4 million contract he negotiated with New England after being dealt last offseason for a 4th round draft choice by the Oakland Raiders. Details of the new contract have not yet been leaked, but expect there to be some kind of pay by game details, or other provisions to help protect the team if Moss goes off the deep end.
UPDATE 03/03/2008 6:22PM: Per Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe, the deal includes a $12 million signing bonus and about $15 million in guaranteed money total.
Also per Mike Reiss, the Patriots have signed former Buffalo Bills wide receiver Sam Aiken to a two year deal for an undisclosed amount. A former 3rd round pick by the Bills in the 2003 NFL Draft, Aiken has been a career backup at wideout, but has excelled at special teams, and was one of the key cogs of a special teams unit that ranked near the top of the league the past few years.
The troubled superstar receiver set the NFL record for touchdown catches in a season last year, hauling in 23 TDs, helping New England break the all time record for points in a season. Moss just finished a 1-year $3.4 million contract he negotiated with New England after being dealt last offseason for a 4th round draft choice by the Oakland Raiders. Details of the new contract have not yet been leaked, but expect there to be some kind of pay by game details, or other provisions to help protect the team if Moss goes off the deep end.
UPDATE 03/03/2008 6:22PM: Per Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe, the deal includes a $12 million signing bonus and about $15 million in guaranteed money total.
Also per Mike Reiss, the Patriots have signed former Buffalo Bills wide receiver Sam Aiken to a two year deal for an undisclosed amount. A former 3rd round pick by the Bills in the 2003 NFL Draft, Aiken has been a career backup at wideout, but has excelled at special teams, and was one of the key cogs of a special teams unit that ranked near the top of the league the past few years.
Titans Formalize 2-Year $5 Million Deal With TE Alge Crumpler
After a premature report yesterday that the team had agreed to a deal with free agent tight end Alge Crumpler, the Tennessee Titans formalized a 2-year $5 million contract earlier today and formally announced it, after ironing out the final details. The deal includes a $1 million signing bonus, and looks to be a steal if Crumpler can return to his former Pro Bowl form.
Crumpler was a 2nd round pick of the Altanta Falcons in the 2001 NFL Draft, and after hauling in 4 Pro Bowl selections (2003 to 2006) and 2 NFL All-Pro selections (2003, 2006), the team cut him this offseason to save money and go in a new direction. Having been a favorite target and safety valve of quarterback Michael Vick, new teammate and quarterback Vince Young will probably be lobbing tons of sidearm throws to Crumpler the next couple of years, as he also loves to check down to a tight end in open space. If he is fully recovered from a knee injury last season, expect Crumpler to be a difference maker and new weapon for the Titans offense, which ranked 27th in the league in passing yards in 2007.
Crumpler was a 2nd round pick of the Altanta Falcons in the 2001 NFL Draft, and after hauling in 4 Pro Bowl selections (2003 to 2006) and 2 NFL All-Pro selections (2003, 2006), the team cut him this offseason to save money and go in a new direction. Having been a favorite target and safety valve of quarterback Michael Vick, new teammate and quarterback Vince Young will probably be lobbing tons of sidearm throws to Crumpler the next couple of years, as he also loves to check down to a tight end in open space. If he is fully recovered from a knee injury last season, expect Crumpler to be a difference maker and new weapon for the Titans offense, which ranked 27th in the league in passing yards in 2007.
Rams Sign G Jacob Bell to 6-Year $36 Million Deal, With $13 Million Guaranteed
After the beating that Marc Bulger took last season, it seems that the St. Louis Rams front office is determined to make his protection a priority this offseason. Today the Rams signed unrestricted free agent guard Jacob Bell to a 6-year $36 million contract, including a $7 million signing bonus and $13 million in total guaranteed money. The Rams had been interested in speaking with guard Alan Faneca, but never got a chance as the New York Jets quickly snared him with a 5-year $40 million deal on the opening of free agency. Bell seems like a good alternative, as he is only 27 and has started basically 3 out his 4 years in the league, and is viewed as one of the up and coming guards to have recently hit the market.
Bell was drafted by the Tennesee Titans out of Miami (FL) University in the 5th round of the 2004 NFL Draft, and quickly became a starter for the Titans rebuilding line. In 4 years he appeared in 55 games, and started 46. The move leaves Tennesee with second year man Leroy Harris to fill in the spot vacated by the departure of Bell. Look for them to continue to use mid and late round draft picks to develop young offensive lineman, as has been the status quo for the franchise.
Don't be surprised if the Rams, who draft 2nd overall in this upcoming NFL Draft this year, end up selecting top rated offensive tackle prospect Jake Long. They were not hesitant to take Orlando Pace with the 1st overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft, and he turned out to be a 7-time Pro Bowler for them, but is at the end of his career. An offensive line anchored by Jake Long and Jacob Bell, along with recent draft picks Alex Barron and Richie Incognito, would look pretty promising and provide a solid foundation for the Rams offense for the next 8 to 10 years.
Bell was drafted by the Tennesee Titans out of Miami (FL) University in the 5th round of the 2004 NFL Draft, and quickly became a starter for the Titans rebuilding line. In 4 years he appeared in 55 games, and started 46. The move leaves Tennesee with second year man Leroy Harris to fill in the spot vacated by the departure of Bell. Look for them to continue to use mid and late round draft picks to develop young offensive lineman, as has been the status quo for the franchise.
Don't be surprised if the Rams, who draft 2nd overall in this upcoming NFL Draft this year, end up selecting top rated offensive tackle prospect Jake Long. They were not hesitant to take Orlando Pace with the 1st overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft, and he turned out to be a 7-time Pro Bowler for them, but is at the end of his career. An offensive line anchored by Jake Long and Jacob Bell, along with recent draft picks Alex Barron and Richie Incognito, would look pretty promising and provide a solid foundation for the Rams offense for the next 8 to 10 years.
RB Warrick Dunn Released By Falcons, Rumored to Visit Bucs
After the recent signing of free agent running back Michael 'The Burner' Turner by the Altanta Falcons, running back Warrick Dunn asked the team for his release, and today was granted his wish, as the team parted ways with the 11-year veteran.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are rumored to possibly be in the hunt for Dunn's services, and are a seeking a reunion with the running back who played for the team for his first 5 seasons. Dunn has amassed 10,179 rushing yards and 47 touchdowns in his career, along with 4,009 receiving yards and 15 more touchdowns through the air.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are rumored to possibly be in the hunt for Dunn's services, and are a seeking a reunion with the running back who played for the team for his first 5 seasons. Dunn has amassed 10,179 rushing yards and 47 touchdowns in his career, along with 4,009 receiving yards and 15 more touchdowns through the air.
Steelers Ink Big Ben to 8-Year $102 Million Deal, With $36 Million Guaranteed
The Pittsburgh Steelers tend to not overpay to keep their own players, but today they came to terms with franchise quarterback Ben Roethlisberger on an 8-year $102 million contract that will probably keep him with the team for the rest of his career (motorcycle accidents notwithstanding). The deal includes roughly $36-38 million in guaranteed money, depending on whose reports you read, and places him among the league's highest paid players, with a $12.75 million a year average. That can buy a lot of motorcycle helmets and/or reconstructive surgery.
After being drafted in the 1st round of the 2004 NFL Draft out of Miami (of Ohio), Big Ben took over the reigns of a team searching for a leader since the departure of Terry Bradshaw, and was named the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year. He then helped lead Pittsburgh to their first Super Bowl victory in 26 years, when the Steelers defeated the Seattle Seahawks 21-10 in Super Bowl XL, becoming the youngest starting quarterback to win a Super Bowl. In 4 seasons Roethlisberger has started 55 games, thrown for 11,673 yards, 84 touchdowns, and 54 interceptions, good for a career passer rating of 92.5. He is coming off his best statistical season, throwing for a franchise record 32 touchdowns and only 11 interceptions, while generating a 104.1 quarterback rating.
After being drafted in the 1st round of the 2004 NFL Draft out of Miami (of Ohio), Big Ben took over the reigns of a team searching for a leader since the departure of Terry Bradshaw, and was named the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year. He then helped lead Pittsburgh to their first Super Bowl victory in 26 years, when the Steelers defeated the Seattle Seahawks 21-10 in Super Bowl XL, becoming the youngest starting quarterback to win a Super Bowl. In 4 seasons Roethlisberger has started 55 games, thrown for 11,673 yards, 84 touchdowns, and 54 interceptions, good for a career passer rating of 92.5. He is coming off his best statistical season, throwing for a franchise record 32 touchdowns and only 11 interceptions, while generating a 104.1 quarterback rating.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Falcons Sign TE Ben Hartsock to 4-Year Contract
After having cut fan favorite Alge Crumpler earlier this offseason, the Atlanta Falcons have signed unrestricted free agent tight end Ben Hartsock to a 4-year contract to help fill the void left at the position. Terms of the deal were unannounced/leaked, but it probably was a relatively small contract, as Hartsock has been a career backup in his four years in the League.
Not a household name by any stretch of the imagination, Hartsock was originally a 3rd round pick out of Ohio State University in the 2004 NFL Draft, when the Indianapolis Colts drafted him. Being flush with quality tight ends at the time, the Colts put him on waivers and the Tennessee Titans grabbed him after week 8 of the 2006 season, and he went on to be a solid blocking tight end in the 2 tight end sets the Titans frequently used in their rushing attack last year.
Not a household name by any stretch of the imagination, Hartsock was originally a 3rd round pick out of Ohio State University in the 2004 NFL Draft, when the Indianapolis Colts drafted him. Being flush with quality tight ends at the time, the Colts put him on waivers and the Tennessee Titans grabbed him after week 8 of the 2006 season, and he went on to be a solid blocking tight end in the 2 tight end sets the Titans frequently used in their rushing attack last year.
Falcons Nab Turner the Burner With 6-Year $34.5 Million Contract
After a run of bad luck, poor planning, and poor performances in 2007, the tide may be starting to turn for the Atlanta Falcons, who today signed unrestricted free agent running back Michael Turner to a 6-year $34.5 million contract. The deal reportedly includes $15 million in guaranteed money, although no signing bonus figures have yet been released/leaked. All of the Atlanta brass allegedly put the full court press on Turner during the wooing period, including a grandiose dinner with GM Tom Dimitroff, owner Arthur Blank, and head coach Mike Smith.
Turner was a 5th round pick out of Northern Illinois in the 2005 draft for the San Diego Chargers, and in limited duty has shown flashes of brilliance, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. Generally regarded as the best free agent running back in this year's thin class, Turner has only carried the ball 228 times for 1257 yards and 6 touchdowns in his 4-year career, but has shown the ability to run inside between the tackles, an explosive burst in space, and the ability to break tackles.
The arrival of Turner the Burner likely means that the Falcons will cut ties with aging running back Warrick Dunn, and will pair Turner with young complementary back Jerious Norwood, who has also shown flashes of brilliance in limited duty with Atlanta. The Falcons stand to gain about $3 million against this year's salary cap of $116 million with a potential release of Dunn. The signing and loss of Turner also means San Diego will receive a compensatory draft pick in next year's NFL Draft, likely to be a 3rd rounder based on playing time and the contract signed by Turner. Chargers general manager AJ Smith rebuffed offers for Turner around last year's draft, knowing he would receive a high compensatory pick this year, and he valued Turner as a good insurance policy in case LaDainian Tomlinson suffered an injury during a potential Super Bowl run. The Chargers will now look to Darren Sproles to backup LT, and may draft another running back in the mid to late rounds of this year's NFL Draft.
Turner was a 5th round pick out of Northern Illinois in the 2005 draft for the San Diego Chargers, and in limited duty has shown flashes of brilliance, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. Generally regarded as the best free agent running back in this year's thin class, Turner has only carried the ball 228 times for 1257 yards and 6 touchdowns in his 4-year career, but has shown the ability to run inside between the tackles, an explosive burst in space, and the ability to break tackles.
The arrival of Turner the Burner likely means that the Falcons will cut ties with aging running back Warrick Dunn, and will pair Turner with young complementary back Jerious Norwood, who has also shown flashes of brilliance in limited duty with Atlanta. The Falcons stand to gain about $3 million against this year's salary cap of $116 million with a potential release of Dunn. The signing and loss of Turner also means San Diego will receive a compensatory draft pick in next year's NFL Draft, likely to be a 3rd rounder based on playing time and the contract signed by Turner. Chargers general manager AJ Smith rebuffed offers for Turner around last year's draft, knowing he would receive a high compensatory pick this year, and he valued Turner as a good insurance policy in case LaDainian Tomlinson suffered an injury during a potential Super Bowl run. The Chargers will now look to Darren Sproles to backup LT, and may draft another running back in the mid to late rounds of this year's NFL Draft.
Cubs' Soriano Fractures Finger, May Miss Up to 5 Days of Camp
Chicago Cubs outfielder Alfonso Soriano fractured his right middle finger while working on fly ball drills, and is expected to miss up to 5 days of the Cubs training camp in Mesa, Arizona. The injury is not considered serious, and he should be back working with the club in full capacity by next week.
Saints Sign CB Randall Gay to 4-Year Deal Worth Up to $17.8 Million
The New Orleans Saints' pass defense couldn't get much worse last year, and looking to improve upon an achilles' heal in the secondary, have signed free agent corner back Randall Gay to a 4-year deal worth up to $17.8 million, including a $3.75 million signing bonus. Gay stands to make $6.7 million in the first 2 years of the contract, and that could increase to as much as $9 million, based on playing-time triggered incentive clauses.
Coming to the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent signing in 2004, Gay has been a decent but not spectacular player in New England's system, and will look to break out in a possible full-time starting role with the Saints. After growing up in Louisiana and playing the nickel back (3rd cornerback) on LSU's 2003 national title winning team, Gay often filled in for injured starters on the Patriots the past four years, including 14 starts.
The signing of Gay most likely means the end of the road for former free agent acquisition Jason David, whom last year signed a 4-year $15.6 million contract, and was promptly burned time and time again last year like a piece of bread permanently stuck in a toaster. David was a restricted free agent at the time, so the Saints ended up surrendering a 4th round pick in the 2007 NFL Draft when the Indianapolis Colts chose not to match the Saints' offer, which will go down in New Orleans annals as another wasted pick. Exact numbers of David's deal aren't known at this time, but the remaining portion of his small signing bonus would accelerate to the current year, and count against this year's $116 million salary cap if he/when he is released.
Coming to the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent signing in 2004, Gay has been a decent but not spectacular player in New England's system, and will look to break out in a possible full-time starting role with the Saints. After growing up in Louisiana and playing the nickel back (3rd cornerback) on LSU's 2003 national title winning team, Gay often filled in for injured starters on the Patriots the past four years, including 14 starts.
The signing of Gay most likely means the end of the road for former free agent acquisition Jason David, whom last year signed a 4-year $15.6 million contract, and was promptly burned time and time again last year like a piece of bread permanently stuck in a toaster. David was a restricted free agent at the time, so the Saints ended up surrendering a 4th round pick in the 2007 NFL Draft when the Indianapolis Colts chose not to match the Saints' offer, which will go down in New Orleans annals as another wasted pick. Exact numbers of David's deal aren't known at this time, but the remaining portion of his small signing bonus would accelerate to the current year, and count against this year's $116 million salary cap if he/when he is released.
Saints Re-Sign Devery Henderson to 1-Year $2 Million Deal, Cut LB Simmons
The New Orleans Saints re-signed wide receiver Devery Henderson to a 1-year $2 million contract. The former 2004 2nd round pick out of Tennessee looked to see what he was worth on the free agent market, and not many teams came calling. For his career, the drop-prone wideout has amassed only 74 catches for 1497 yards and 11 touchdowns. The Saints will see if he can improve any more this year, and if he can't they won't be on the hook for a bad long term contract (see Bernard Berrian).
In other Saints news, New Orleans has released veteran linebacker Brian Simmons, whom they signed last offseason to a 3-year contract at relatively small salaries. Simmons is now 32, and has been cut in successive offseasons by the Cincinatti Bengals and New Orleans Saints, two of the most linebacker-needy teams in the league. Don't expect him to pop up again anytime soon, as there must be absolutely no tread left on those tires if the Bengals and Saints are cutting him.
In other Saints news, New Orleans has released veteran linebacker Brian Simmons, whom they signed last offseason to a 3-year contract at relatively small salaries. Simmons is now 32, and has been cut in successive offseasons by the Cincinatti Bengals and New Orleans Saints, two of the most linebacker-needy teams in the league. Don't expect him to pop up again anytime soon, as there must be absolutely no tread left on those tires if the Bengals and Saints are cutting him.
Eagles Bag DE Chris Clemons With 5-Year $18.5 Million Contract
The Eagles continue to look to rebuild a dissapointing team from last year, and have signed unrestricted free agent defensive end Chris Clemons to a 5-year $18.5 million contract. A backup for his entire career, Clemons rushing ability is what attracted teams to him, as he racked up 8 sacks in spot duty last season, and there aren't very many pass rushers currently available on the market.
Clemons came into the league as an undrafted free agent in 2003, and signed with the Washington Redskins, and prompty suffered a torn ACL and landed on injured reserve. He spent 2004 and part of 2005 with the Redskins, as well as a brief stint with the Cleveland Browns (on the practice squad), and was out of football in 2006. In 2007 the Oakland Raiders rescued Clemons from the scrap heap, and he appeared in all 16 games, totaling 20 tackles, 8 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.
Clemons came into the league as an undrafted free agent in 2003, and signed with the Washington Redskins, and prompty suffered a torn ACL and landed on injured reserve. He spent 2004 and part of 2005 with the Redskins, as well as a brief stint with the Cleveland Browns (on the practice squad), and was out of football in 2006. In 2007 the Oakland Raiders rescued Clemons from the scrap heap, and he appeared in all 16 games, totaling 20 tackles, 8 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Texans Add CB Jacque Reeves With 5-Year $20 Million Contract
The Houston Texans have signed cornerback Jacque Reeves to a 5-year $20 million contract, including almost $8 million guaranteed. Reeves is expected to start opposite cornerback Fred Bennet next year, as Dunta Robinson will probably miss the first half of the year while recovering from a torn ACL and torn hamstring suffered last season.
The Dallas Cowboys drafted Reeves out of Purdue in the 7th round of the 2004 NFL Draft, and he was mainly used as a nickel (3rd) and dime (4th) cornerback until 2007, when he started 13 games in the Cowboys weak secondary. Dallas made no move to re-sign him, and will likely look to the draft to help replenish the position.
The Dallas Cowboys drafted Reeves out of Purdue in the 7th round of the 2004 NFL Draft, and he was mainly used as a nickel (3rd) and dime (4th) cornerback until 2007, when he started 13 games in the Cowboys weak secondary. Dallas made no move to re-sign him, and will likely look to the draft to help replenish the position.
Bears Re-Sign LB Lance Briggs to 6-Year $36 Million Deal
After over a year of posturing and contentious bargaining, free agent linebacker Lance Briggs is coming back to the Chicago Bears for good, signing a 6-year $36 million contract that will pay $21.7 million over the first 3 years of the deal, and includes $13 million in guaranteed money. Briggs rebuffed the Bears' offer of 6-years and $33 million last offseason, and Chicago placed the franchise tag on him in 2007, paying him $7.216 million for one season of duty. Hoping to cash in this offseason instead, Briggs played well again in 2007, but the mega-offers he was hoping for never materialized, and he decided to re-up with the only team he has known during his impressive 5-year NFL career.
Originally a 3rd round draft pick out of Arizona in the 2003 NFL Draft, Briggs has consistently been a playmaker for the Bears, and is regarded as one of the top outside linebackers and coverage 'backers in the league by most personnel experts. He has been invited to three Pro Bowls (2005, 2006, 2007), and has twice been an NFL All-Pro selection (2005, 2006). Despite being the top linebacker available in this year's free agent class, many teams simply don't value linebackers that highly, and would rather pay big money to 'shut-down' cornerbacks and pass-rushing defensive ends. This, coupled with the Bears filing a tampering charge against the San Francisco 49ers for their alleged pursuit of Briggs, seems to have led to a tepid market for Briggs' services.
Originally a 3rd round draft pick out of Arizona in the 2003 NFL Draft, Briggs has consistently been a playmaker for the Bears, and is regarded as one of the top outside linebackers and coverage 'backers in the league by most personnel experts. He has been invited to three Pro Bowls (2005, 2006, 2007), and has twice been an NFL All-Pro selection (2005, 2006). Despite being the top linebacker available in this year's free agent class, many teams simply don't value linebackers that highly, and would rather pay big money to 'shut-down' cornerbacks and pass-rushing defensive ends. This, coupled with the Bears filing a tampering charge against the San Francisco 49ers for their alleged pursuit of Briggs, seems to have led to a tepid market for Briggs' services.
Browns Sign Stallworth to 7-Year $35 Million Deal That Pays Out $17.1 Million Over First 4 Years
The Cleveland Browns have made another move to bolster their potent offense by signing free agent wide receiver Donte Stallworth to a 7-year $35 million contract, with $10 million guaranteed. Per Mike Florio of PFT, the deal is more realistically a 5-year $22 million deal that pays out $17.1 million over the first 4 years of the contract.
Stallworth was coming off of a multi-year deal signed with the New England Patriots last year that included an $8 million roster bonus that New England opted not to pay, and cut Stallworth loose. While somewhat effective for the high powered Patriot offense last year, Stallworth only grabbed 46 catches for 697 yards and 3 touchdowns. Look for him to fit nicely into the Browns' aerial attack opposite Pro Bowler Braylon Edwards, and to draw defenders away from the middle of the field, opening up more opportunities and space for Pro Bowl tight end Kellen Winslow.
Stallworth was coming off of a multi-year deal signed with the New England Patriots last year that included an $8 million roster bonus that New England opted not to pay, and cut Stallworth loose. While somewhat effective for the high powered Patriot offense last year, Stallworth only grabbed 46 catches for 697 yards and 3 touchdowns. Look for him to fit nicely into the Browns' aerial attack opposite Pro Bowler Braylon Edwards, and to draw defenders away from the middle of the field, opening up more opportunities and space for Pro Bowl tight end Kellen Winslow.
Bills Trade 3rd & 5th Rounders to Jags For DT Stroud, Sign Spencer Johnson
The Buffalo Bills are looking to improve a run defense that ranked 25th in the NFL in 2007, and have started to do so by acquiring a pair of defensive tackles. Buffalo has nabbed 3-time All-Pro and Pro Bowl defensive tackle Marcus Stroud from the Jacksonville Jaguars, in exchange for 3rd and 5th round picks in the upcoming 2008 NFL Draft. The Bills have also signed former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Spencer Johnson to a 5-year contract for an undisclosed amount.
Stroud was drafted by Jacksonville out of Georgia with the 13th overall pick in the 1st round in 2001, and was elected to both the Pro Bowl and NFL All-Pro teams in 2003 through 2005. Teaming with John Henderson inside, Stroud helped the Jags run defense consistently be one of the top run stuffing units in the league the past few years. He was suspended for 4 games in 2007 for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy related to steroids, but Stroud contended that he was given an over-the counter supplement by an Atlanta physician to help recover from off-season ankle surgery, and that is what ultimately triggered the positive test. Stroud is still under contract for the next 3 years at $16.5 million total, which seems like a pretty good deal in today's market for top shelf defensive tackles.
Spencer Johnson has been a backup defensive tackle in the rotation in Minnesota, and comes Buffalo seeking more playing time, and will probably also be part of a rotation that will include the newly acquired Stroud, as well as 2005 1st round pick John McCargo and second year starter Kyle Williams. The Bills ranked 31st in the league defensively in 2007, so the moves can only help to improve the team.
Stroud was drafted by Jacksonville out of Georgia with the 13th overall pick in the 1st round in 2001, and was elected to both the Pro Bowl and NFL All-Pro teams in 2003 through 2005. Teaming with John Henderson inside, Stroud helped the Jags run defense consistently be one of the top run stuffing units in the league the past few years. He was suspended for 4 games in 2007 for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy related to steroids, but Stroud contended that he was given an over-the counter supplement by an Atlanta physician to help recover from off-season ankle surgery, and that is what ultimately triggered the positive test. Stroud is still under contract for the next 3 years at $16.5 million total, which seems like a pretty good deal in today's market for top shelf defensive tackles.
Spencer Johnson has been a backup defensive tackle in the rotation in Minnesota, and comes Buffalo seeking more playing time, and will probably also be part of a rotation that will include the newly acquired Stroud, as well as 2005 1st round pick John McCargo and second year starter Kyle Williams. The Bills ranked 31st in the league defensively in 2007, so the moves can only help to improve the team.
Jaguars Hand CB Drayton Florence Nonsensical 6-Year $36 Million Contract
The Jacksonville Jaguars may be responsible for one of, if not the worst contract doled out this offseason, as they recently signed unrestricted free agent cornerback Drayton Florence to a 6-year $36 million contract, with $13 million guaranteed. There have been reports that Florence will compete for the starting cornerback opposite Rashean Mathis, or even a nickel position, but common sense will tell you that you don't pay $6 million a year to have someone in the seconardy sit on the bench at that price. Florence will start the year opposite Mathis, but don't be surprised if he ends the year on the bench, as he will frequently be targeted by offenses looking to exploit a weakness in the Jags defense in the upcoming season.
Florence, who originally grew up in Ocala (FL), was a 2nd round draft pick by the San Diego Chargers in the 2003 NFL Draft, and has been an on and off starter for San Diego the past 5 years. Most Chargers fans will recognize him as a liability in pass coverage, but for some reason a number of scouts in the NFL think he has potential, and the Jaguars ultimately overpaid for him in an extremely thin free agent class at the cornerback position.
Florence, who originally grew up in Ocala (FL), was a 2nd round draft pick by the San Diego Chargers in the 2003 NFL Draft, and has been an on and off starter for San Diego the past 5 years. Most Chargers fans will recognize him as a liability in pass coverage, but for some reason a number of scouts in the NFL think he has potential, and the Jaguars ultimately overpaid for him in an extremely thin free agent class at the cornerback position.
Vikings Duped Into Signing Bernard Berrian To 6-Year $42 Million Deal
The Minnesota Vikings haven't had much success at the wide receiver position since they traded Randy Moss, but apparently they think the great Bernard Berrian can be the answer to their problems. Today the Vikings signed the former Chicago Bear to a stunning 6-Year $42 million contract, with $16 million guaranteed. He will make $23 million over the first 3 years of the deal, and amazingly will be one of the highest paid receivers in the league, despite have never demonstrated that he is a top shelf wideout. The Tennessee Titans were also rumored to be hot for Berrian, but the Vikings ponied up superstar caliber money to keep him from making any more free agent visits.
Berrian was a 3rd round pick out of Fresno State by the Bears in the 2003 NFL Draft, and posseses deep speed, but shaky hands. Chicago general manager Jerry Angelo had reportedly offered Berrian a 5-year $25 million contract, which seemed like a lot for someone who has never even posted a 1000 yard receiving season, nor has ever caught 75 passes in a season, nor has even made the Pro Bowl. Based on the size of the contract, and Berrian's potential performance this year, the Bears may be in line for a 4th round compensatory draft pick in next year's draft.
Broncos Ink WR Bust Keary Colbert to 3-Year Deal
The Denver Broncos have come to terms on a contract with free agent wide receiver Keary Colbert on a 3-year deal worth $7.2 million, including a $2.5 million signing bonus, according to SI.com's Bucky Brooks. Colbert will compete with Brandon Stokley and Brandon Marshall for the starting receiver positions.
A former 2nd round draft pick out of USC in 2004, Colbert has posted 109 receptions for 1424 yards and 7 touchdowns in 100 games with the Carolina Panthers the past four years. That translates to an average of 27.25 catches, 356 yards, and 1.75 touchdowns per year, which is exactly what you would expect from your team's 5th receiver. The only problem is, the Broncos are expecting him to be a #2 receiver.
A former 2nd round draft pick out of USC in 2004, Colbert has posted 109 receptions for 1424 yards and 7 touchdowns in 100 games with the Carolina Panthers the past four years. That translates to an average of 27.25 catches, 356 yards, and 1.75 touchdowns per year, which is exactly what you would expect from your team's 5th receiver. The only problem is, the Broncos are expecting him to be a #2 receiver.
Rams Kicker Wilkins Retires, Then Rams Sign Josh Brown to 5-Year$14.2 Million Deal
The St. Louis Rams kicker Jeff Wilkins has announced his retirement, and will as the team's all-time leading scorer. Wilkins started his career with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1994, then played with the San Francisco 49ers in 1995-1996, before ultimately latching on with the Rams in 1997, where he has played the last 11 years. He will leave as one of the NFL's most accurate kickers, having made 81.9% of his field goals, and 99.4% of point after attempts.
After Wilkins' announcement, the Rams moved quickly to sign his replacement, inking Pro Bowl kicker Josh Brown to a 5-year $14.2 million contract, including $4 million signing bonus, which is the most ever for a kicker's contract.
The Seahawks made Brown their franchise player last year, guaranteeing him a 1-year $2.078 million contract, but used the tag on cornerback Marcus Trufant this offseason. Seattle was rumored to be working on a long term deal with Brown, but the Rams apparently made a better offer and quickly struck a deal with the unrestricted free agent.
UPDATE 03/04/2008 11:01AM: Per Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post Dispatch, the contract breakdown is as follows: $4 million signing bonus, plus base salaries of $1 million in 2008, $1.8 million in 2009, $2 million in 2010, $2.7 million in 2011, and $2.7 million in 2012
After Wilkins' announcement, the Rams moved quickly to sign his replacement, inking Pro Bowl kicker Josh Brown to a 5-year $14.2 million contract, including $4 million signing bonus, which is the most ever for a kicker's contract.
The Seahawks made Brown their franchise player last year, guaranteeing him a 1-year $2.078 million contract, but used the tag on cornerback Marcus Trufant this offseason. Seattle was rumored to be working on a long term deal with Brown, but the Rams apparently made a better offer and quickly struck a deal with the unrestricted free agent.
UPDATE 03/04/2008 11:01AM: Per Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post Dispatch, the contract breakdown is as follows: $4 million signing bonus, plus base salaries of $1 million in 2008, $1.8 million in 2009, $2 million in 2010, $2.7 million in 2011, and $2.7 million in 2012
Lynch Skips Retirement, Returns to Broncos For 1 More Year
Strong safety John Lynch has signed a one year contract at a reduced salary to stay with the Denver Broncos, who asked him to take a pay cut, and this will likely be his last year. The 2008 season will represent his 16th year in the NFL, where he has amassed 1075 tackles, 26 incterceptions, and 13 sacks.
Lynch was scheduled to make $3.12 million between base salary and roster bonus in 2008, the final year of his original contract signed with the Broncos. He was thinking of possibly retiring, or possibly hitting the free agent market and searching out more money elsewhere, as teams are flush with money this free agent period, and there are not a lot of quality safeties available. Lynch ultimately decided to stay in Denver at a reduced rate because of his family's familiarity and comfort with the area.
Lynch was scheduled to make $3.12 million between base salary and roster bonus in 2008, the final year of his original contract signed with the Broncos. He was thinking of possibly retiring, or possibly hitting the free agent market and searching out more money elsewhere, as teams are flush with money this free agent period, and there are not a lot of quality safeties available. Lynch ultimately decided to stay in Denver at a reduced rate because of his family's familiarity and comfort with the area.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Chris Paul and Hornets Trump Deron Williams and Jazz 110-98
With seemingly and unspoken motivation to prove he is the best point guard in the league, Chris Paul continues to chew up and spit out opposing guards and teams in his conquest to be the best. The NBA's other young premier point guard, Deron Williams, was the latest to fall as the New Orleans Hornets downed the Utah Jazz 110-98 at New Orleans Arena. Paul racked up 24 points, 16 assists, and 5 steals to help the Hornets go on a 23-0 run and build a 27-point lead in the 1st half, then hold on to win even after Utah attempted a frantic 2nd half comeback.
Having outplayed other All Star point guards Steve Nash and Jason Kidd over the past month, Paul was all over the court, and helped harass Williams into 4 turnovers. David West kicked in 25 points and 13 boards, and Peja Stojakovic added 20 for the Hornets, who move to 39-18 with the win (currently #3rd place in the Western Conference). The loss dropped Utah to 38-22, but they still maintain the 4th seed and home court advantage for the 1st round if the NBA playoffs were to start today.
Having outplayed other All Star point guards Steve Nash and Jason Kidd over the past month, Paul was all over the court, and helped harass Williams into 4 turnovers. David West kicked in 25 points and 13 boards, and Peja Stojakovic added 20 for the Hornets, who move to 39-18 with the win (currently #3rd place in the Western Conference). The loss dropped Utah to 38-22, but they still maintain the 4th seed and home court advantage for the 1st round if the NBA playoffs were to start today.
Lions Trade DT Shaun Rogers to Browns for 3rd and CB Leigh Bodden
The rumored Shaun Rogers to Cincinatti Bengals trade fell through, and less than a day later he ended up in the same state. The Cleveland Browns have consumated a trade for the former Pro Bowl defensive tackle, sending a 2008 3rd round pick and cornerback Leigh Bodden to the Detroit Lions in exchange for the services of Rogers, who is due a $1 million roster bonus March 1. The Bengals were set to ship a 3rd and 5th rounder to the Lions for Rogers, but for whatever reason the deal fell through, and the Browns stepped up with a significantly better offer.
Cleveland looked to shore up their underacheiving defense, and defensive line in particular. The loss of Bodden will hurt the secondary, but Shaun Rogers is exactly the type of disruptive force and space eating nose tackle the team can use as it hops back and forth from 3-4 to 4-3 base defenses. The eighth year pro was drafted out of Texas in the 2nd round in 2001 and made the Pro Bowl in 2005 and 2006, but has constantly battled weight problems during his career, and didn't exactly fit the Rod Marinelli's "Tampa-2" defensive scheme in Detroit. He was also suspsended for 4 games in 2006 under the NFL's Substance Abuse policy related to steroids and controlled substances, and Rogers told ESPN's Michael Smith it was due to him taking a banned appetite suppresent to help keep his weight down and to help deal with a sleeping disorder. In 2007 Rogers was accused of "inappropriately touching a stripper" (is there any other way to touch one?), but no charges were ever filed.
The Lions aquisition of Leigh Bodden will help strengthen a perenial weak secondary. Bodden was originally an undrafted free agent from Duquesne (where he picked of 28 passes in 4 years), and started his career with the Browns in 2003 as a nickel back and strong contributor on special teams. He was elevated to a starter in 2003, and has arguably been the team's most consistent cornerback since then. In 2007 Bodden racked up 88 tackles, 6 interceptions, and deflected 15 passes, so it doesn't seem like the best move to give him up as part of any deal for a sometimes troubled impact defensive tackle. But as the saying goes, you've got to give something to get something, right?
Cleveland looked to shore up their underacheiving defense, and defensive line in particular. The loss of Bodden will hurt the secondary, but Shaun Rogers is exactly the type of disruptive force and space eating nose tackle the team can use as it hops back and forth from 3-4 to 4-3 base defenses. The eighth year pro was drafted out of Texas in the 2nd round in 2001 and made the Pro Bowl in 2005 and 2006, but has constantly battled weight problems during his career, and didn't exactly fit the Rod Marinelli's "Tampa-2" defensive scheme in Detroit. He was also suspsended for 4 games in 2006 under the NFL's Substance Abuse policy related to steroids and controlled substances, and Rogers told ESPN's Michael Smith it was due to him taking a banned appetite suppresent to help keep his weight down and to help deal with a sleeping disorder. In 2007 Rogers was accused of "inappropriately touching a stripper" (is there any other way to touch one?), but no charges were ever filed.
The Lions aquisition of Leigh Bodden will help strengthen a perenial weak secondary. Bodden was originally an undrafted free agent from Duquesne (where he picked of 28 passes in 4 years), and started his career with the Browns in 2003 as a nickel back and strong contributor on special teams. He was elevated to a starter in 2003, and has arguably been the team's most consistent cornerback since then. In 2007 Bodden racked up 88 tackles, 6 interceptions, and deflected 15 passes, so it doesn't seem like the best move to give him up as part of any deal for a sometimes troubled impact defensive tackle. But as the saying goes, you've got to give something to get something, right?
Jacksonville Hauls in WR Jerry Porter With 6-Year $30 Million Deal
The Jacksonville Jaguars have gotten little production from their wide receiver core the last few years, and are hoping things will change with their newest additions. The team signed free agent wideout Jerry Porter to a 6-year $30 million contract, which is similar to the 6-year $25 million deal that Plaxico Burress had signed with the New York Giants in 2005. Neither receiver had ever been a stud #1 for a team, but with a weak market at the position both were rewarded handsomely.
Porter was drafted by the Oakland Raiders out of West Virginia in the 2nd round of the 2000 NFL Draft, but never lived up to the hype as a field stretching threat. In 8 seasons with the team Porter only totaled 284 receptions and 30 touchdowns in105 games (2.7 catches per game), and has never produced a 1000 yard season. In 2005 he spent 12 games watching from the sidelines after quarelling with coaches over his lack of work ethic.
Jacksonville continues to re-shape the roster at the position after failing with key draft picks at the position like Matt Jones (1st round 2005) and Reggie Williams (1st round 2004), neither of whom have materialized as a go-to-guy on gameday.
Porter was drafted by the Oakland Raiders out of West Virginia in the 2nd round of the 2000 NFL Draft, but never lived up to the hype as a field stretching threat. In 8 seasons with the team Porter only totaled 284 receptions and 30 touchdowns in105 games (2.7 catches per game), and has never produced a 1000 yard season. In 2005 he spent 12 games watching from the sidelines after quarelling with coaches over his lack of work ethic.
Jacksonville continues to re-shape the roster at the position after failing with key draft picks at the position like Matt Jones (1st round 2005) and Reggie Williams (1st round 2004), neither of whom have materialized as a go-to-guy on gameday.
Raiders Sign Gibril Wilson To Preposterous 6-Year $39 Million Deal
The Oakland Raiders have been the model for dysfunction in the NFL, and after a couple of their most recent moves, have cemented their place as one of the worst front offices in the League. Days after signing Tommy Kelly to an asinine 7-year $50 million deal, the Raiders have struck again, signing unrestricted free agent safety Gibril Wilson to a 6-year $39 million contract, including $16 million in guarantees. The contract will pay Wilson $19.5 million over the first 3 years of the deal, so it doesn't necessarily seem like a contract with a bunch of inflated numbers, and averages $6.583 million a year. For Gibril Wilson, whom the Super Bowl winning New York Giants chose to not even attempt to re-sign, and the same player who has only mustered 11 interceptions and 27 passes deflected in 4 years in the NFL.
To put this signing into perspective, let's look at some of the recent contracts signed by other starting safeties in the NFL:
1) Bob Sanders signed a 5-year $37.5 million extension with the Indianapolis Colts, including $20 million in guaranteed money (12/28/2007); average of $7.5 million per year for the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year
2) Troy Polamalu signed a 4-year $30.19 million deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, with $15.375 million guaranteed (07/23/2007); average of $7.5475 million per year
3) Ed Reed signed a 6-year $40 millio extension with the Baltimore Ravens, including a $15 million signing bonus (06/28/2006); practical value a 4-year $20.385 million deal before base salaries jump and will force contract to be re-visited; average of $6.667 million per year, but more likely average of $5.097 million per year
4) Adrian Wilson signed a 5-year $21 million extension with the Arizona Cardinals (12/23/2004); average of $4.2 million per year (although likely to break the bank next offseason with another team)
So to review, the Raiders have made Gibril Wilson the 3rd highest paid safety in league history, when his own team didn't think he was good enough to even make a push to re-sign him.
To put this signing into perspective, let's look at some of the recent contracts signed by other starting safeties in the NFL:
1) Bob Sanders signed a 5-year $37.5 million extension with the Indianapolis Colts, including $20 million in guaranteed money (12/28/2007); average of $7.5 million per year for the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year
2) Troy Polamalu signed a 4-year $30.19 million deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, with $15.375 million guaranteed (07/23/2007); average of $7.5475 million per year
3) Ed Reed signed a 6-year $40 millio extension with the Baltimore Ravens, including a $15 million signing bonus (06/28/2006); practical value a 4-year $20.385 million deal before base salaries jump and will force contract to be re-visited; average of $6.667 million per year, but more likely average of $5.097 million per year
4) Adrian Wilson signed a 5-year $21 million extension with the Arizona Cardinals (12/23/2004); average of $4.2 million per year (although likely to break the bank next offseason with another team)
So to review, the Raiders have made Gibril Wilson the 3rd highest paid safety in league history, when his own team didn't think he was good enough to even make a push to re-sign him.
Vikings Ink Madieu Williams to 6-Year $33 Million Contract They'll Soon Regret
The Minnesota Vikings have made free agent safety Madieu Williams one of the NFL's highest paid safeties, agreeing to terms on a 6-year $33 million contract. The 26 year old safety cashed in during an atypical free agent year that is exceptionally thin at the position, and when the bulk of teams are flush with so much cap space that they are spending out of control. This is just the latest example of a team overpaying for average players, by about twice as much as they should.
Drafted as a 2nd round pick in 2004 out of Maryland, Williams has been a decent, but not spectactular contributor on the perpetually putrid defenses that the Cincinatti Bengals have had during the Marvin Lewis-coached era. Known for his coverage skills primarily, Bengals fans will remember Williams being a liability as a tackler, and will probably look forward to the team spending more draft picks to infuse the roster with some young defensive playmakers. If Cincinatti didn't make a play to re-sign their own starter from a notably weak secondary, that might be a good indication of his skill set and ultimate value.
Drafted as a 2nd round pick in 2004 out of Maryland, Williams has been a decent, but not spectactular contributor on the perpetually putrid defenses that the Cincinatti Bengals have had during the Marvin Lewis-coached era. Known for his coverage skills primarily, Bengals fans will remember Williams being a liability as a tackler, and will probably look forward to the team spending more draft picks to infuse the roster with some young defensive playmakers. If Cincinatti didn't make a play to re-sign their own starter from a notably weak secondary, that might be a good indication of his skill set and ultimate value.
QB Cleo Lemon Signs 3-Year $8.1 Million Incentive-Laden Deal With Jaguars
Career backup quarterback Cleo Lemon has agreed to a 3-year, $8.1 million contract to join the Jacksonville Jaguars. Alex Marvez of FoxSports.com reports that the deal includes a $2.95 million signing bonus, and up to $4 million in incentives. This means that the realistic value of the deal is probably about $4.1-$5 million over the 3 year term, as Cleo Lemon probably isn't going to be reaching many incentive thresholds.
Lemon started his career as an undrafted free agent out of Arkansas State, and spent part of 2002 on the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad. He then spent 2003 to 2005 as a 3rd string backup on the San Diego Chargers, before leaving for the sunnier pastures of the Miami Dolphins in hope of finding more playing time. Aside from a decent preseason performance in 2006, Lemon has not really done anything to demonstrate he is a NFL caliber quarterback, but he will be expected to backup quarterback David Garrard in Jacksonville the next 3 years.
Lemon started his career as an undrafted free agent out of Arkansas State, and spent part of 2002 on the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad. He then spent 2003 to 2005 as a 3rd string backup on the San Diego Chargers, before leaving for the sunnier pastures of the Miami Dolphins in hope of finding more playing time. Aside from a decent preseason performance in 2006, Lemon has not really done anything to demonstrate he is a NFL caliber quarterback, but he will be expected to backup quarterback David Garrard in Jacksonville the next 3 years.
Pack Trade Franchised DT Corey Williams to Browns for 2008 2nd Rounder, Who Then Sign Him to 6-Year $38 Million Contract
Recently franchised defensive tackle Corey Williams is on the move, but the Green Bay Packers won't be receiving two 1st round draft picks as compensation. The Packers and Cleveland Browns have agreed to a deal that will send Williams to the Browns in exchange for the Browns' 2008 2nd round draft pick (#56 overall). Per Mike Florio of PFT, Williams has inked a new 6-year $38 million contract with Cleveland, including roughly $16.3 million in guaranteed money.
Cowboys Ship NT Jason Ferguson to Dolphins For 6th Rounder
Defensive/nose tackle Jason Ferguson with reunite Bill Parcells yet again, as the Miami Dolphins have agreed to a trade that will allow them to collect Ferguson in exchange for a 2009 6th round draft pick. The Cowboys and Dolphins will also swap 6th rounders this year as part of the arrangement.
Ferguson was drafted by Parcells care of the New York Jets in 1997, and joined the Cowboys in 2005, but was limited to one game last year due to a torn bicep which shelved him for the rest of the year. The emergence of Jay Ratliff and Tank Johnson at defensive tackle would limit any playing time for the aging Ferguson, so at least Dallas salvaged something for him before otherwise cutting him.
Ferguson was drafted by Parcells care of the New York Jets in 1997, and joined the Cowboys in 2005, but was limited to one game last year due to a torn bicep which shelved him for the rest of the year. The emergence of Jay Ratliff and Tank Johnson at defensive tackle would limit any playing time for the aging Ferguson, so at least Dallas salvaged something for him before otherwise cutting him.
Backup QB Todd Collins Re-Signs With Redskins for 3 Years, $9 Million
Don Banks of SI.com reports that backup quarterback Todd Collins has agreed to a 3-year $9 million contract to stay with the Washington Redskins. The 36-year old Collins went 3-0 as a starter for Washington at the end of 2007, and was rumored to be a target of the St. Louis Rams, Jacksonville Jaguars, and other teams seeking backup quarterback help.
The deal includes a $3 million signing bonus, and will keep Collins with the team as an insurance policy if 2005 1st round draft pick Jason Campbell doesn't turn out to be the team's quarterback of the future.
The deal includes a $3 million signing bonus, and will keep Collins with the team as an insurance policy if 2005 1st round draft pick Jason Campbell doesn't turn out to be the team's quarterback of the future.
Jets Ship LB Jonathan Vilma to Saints For Conditional 4th Round Draft Pick
The New Orleans Saints began their 2008 defensive makeover by sending a conditional draft pick to the New York Jets for linebacker Jonathan Vilma. There is no official word yet on what the pick will start as or end as, but it is predicated on Vilma recovering from the knee injury that sidelined him for most of 2007.
Hailing from the U (Miami Hurricanes), Vilma was the 12th overall pick in the 1st round of the 2004 NFL Draft, and showed immediate promise for the Jets, winning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award, and earning a Pro Bowl berth in 2005. However, when Eric Mangini took over the reigns in 2006 and implemented the 3-4 defensive scheme, Vilma looked out of place and didn't fit the bill for bigger linebackers who take up space. He ended 2007 on a down note, injuring his knee in week 7 and ultimately being placed on injured reserve, further falling out of place with the coaching staff.
The Detroit Lions were also rumored to be interested in trading for Vilma for the past couple of days, and he was in Detroit for a physical on Wednesday, but the Saints offer was likely better and more convincing.
UPDATE 02/29/2008 12:20PM: John Clayton of ESPN reports that it is believed that the deal will be for a conditional 4th rounder in 2009, which could upgrade to a 3rd rounder based on Vilma's performance this coming year. Vilma is in the final year of his rookie deal signed in 2004, and there has been no indication the Saints are looking to sign him to a new deal before seeing what they are getting in 2008.
Hailing from the U (Miami Hurricanes), Vilma was the 12th overall pick in the 1st round of the 2004 NFL Draft, and showed immediate promise for the Jets, winning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award, and earning a Pro Bowl berth in 2005. However, when Eric Mangini took over the reigns in 2006 and implemented the 3-4 defensive scheme, Vilma looked out of place and didn't fit the bill for bigger linebackers who take up space. He ended 2007 on a down note, injuring his knee in week 7 and ultimately being placed on injured reserve, further falling out of place with the coaching staff.
The Detroit Lions were also rumored to be interested in trading for Vilma for the past couple of days, and he was in Detroit for a physical on Wednesday, but the Saints offer was likely better and more convincing.
UPDATE 02/29/2008 12:20PM: John Clayton of ESPN reports that it is believed that the deal will be for a conditional 4th rounder in 2009, which could upgrade to a 3rd rounder based on Vilma's performance this coming year. Vilma is in the final year of his rookie deal signed in 2004, and there has been no indication the Saints are looking to sign him to a new deal before seeing what they are getting in 2008.
Dolphins Snare G Justin Smiley With 5-Year $25 Million Contract
The Miami Dolphins have signed unrestricted free agent guard Justin Smiley to a 5-year $25 million contract, including $9 million in guaranteed money, for a player the lowly San Francisco 49ers didn't even want to keep around. Smiley was a 2nd round pick by San Francisco in the 2004 NFL Draft, and has started 49 games over the past 4 years, but San Francisco wasn't willing to pay to keep him, thinking they can improve the line in other ways.
The contract was first leaked and reported to the media roughly 27 minutes after the start of the free agency period opened, so the immediate question coming to minds of many League observers is, how could the Dolphins have worked out an agreement so fast without tampering with Justin Smiley? Players entering the free agent pool because of an expiring contract are only allowed to talk to the team that previously held their rights, until the opening of free agency (February 29th, 12:01am ET this year), and any team that contacts a player or his agent before that time is engaging in tampering.
The contract was first leaked and reported to the media roughly 27 minutes after the start of the free agency period opened, so the immediate question coming to minds of many League observers is, how could the Dolphins have worked out an agreement so fast without tampering with Justin Smiley? Players entering the free agent pool because of an expiring contract are only allowed to talk to the team that previously held their rights, until the opening of free agency (February 29th, 12:01am ET this year), and any team that contacts a player or his agent before that time is engaging in tampering.
Lineback Bruschi To Return To Patriots In 2008, And Possibly Beyond
The New England Patriots and unrestricted free agent inside linebacker Tedy Bruschi have agreed to a verbal deal that will keep him with the team for his 13th season. Terms of the deal have not been announced, but John Clayton is reporting that it may be a multiyear deal.
Bruschi joined the Patriots as a 3rd round pick out of Arizona in 1996, and was named the 2005 NFL Comeback Player of the Year, for his performance after coming back and playing after he had surgery to repair a tiny hole in his heart following a mild stroke. He led the Patriots in tackles in 2007, after a sub-par 2006 season in which most of the Patriots linebacking core was derided for being old and slow. He will turn 35 this June, so if this does turn out to be a multiyear deal, it will probabl be for a maximum of 2 or 3 years.
Bruschi joined the Patriots as a 3rd round pick out of Arizona in 1996, and was named the 2005 NFL Comeback Player of the Year, for his performance after coming back and playing after he had surgery to repair a tiny hole in his heart following a mild stroke. He led the Patriots in tackles in 2007, after a sub-par 2006 season in which most of the Patriots linebacking core was derided for being old and slow. He will turn 35 this June, so if this does turn out to be a multiyear deal, it will probabl be for a maximum of 2 or 3 years.
Buccaneers Agree to Make Free Agent Jeff Faine Highest Paid Center
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have signed unrestricted free agent center Jeff Faine to a multiyear deal that will make him the highest paid center in the league. Details of the contract have not been released or leaked yet, but the deal will surpass the 6-year $36 million contract given to LeCharles Bentley by the Cleveland Browns two years ago in free agency.
The signing will bolster the offensive line of the Bucs, who will now be able to start Faine alongside young studs Jeremy Trueblood (right tackle), Davin Joseph (right guard), and Aaron Sears (left guard). Don't be surprised if the team also seeks to upgrade the left tackle position, which has been manned by a rotory of mediocre players the past decade.
Faine was originally drafted out of Notre Dame by the Cleveland Brown 21st overall in the 1st round in 2003, but then was traded to the New Orleans Saints for a 2ndd round pick on draft day in 2006, and started 30 games over the last 2 years for the Saints.
The signing will bolster the offensive line of the Bucs, who will now be able to start Faine alongside young studs Jeremy Trueblood (right tackle), Davin Joseph (right guard), and Aaron Sears (left guard). Don't be surprised if the team also seeks to upgrade the left tackle position, which has been manned by a rotory of mediocre players the past decade.
Faine was originally drafted out of Notre Dame by the Cleveland Brown 21st overall in the 1st round in 2003, but then was traded to the New Orleans Saints for a 2ndd round pick on draft day in 2006, and started 30 games over the last 2 years for the Saints.
Panthers Trade DT Kris Jenkins to Jets For 3rd & 5th, Then Jenkins Inks Extension
The Carolina Panthers have struck a deal to send defensive tackle Kris Jenkins to the New York Jets in exchange for 3rd and 5th round picks in the 2008 NFL Draft. Jenkins was due a $1 million roster bonus later this week, and has palatable base salaries of $2.955 million in 2008, and $3.71 million in 2009.
Jenkins joined the Panthers as a 2nd round pick in 2001 out of Maryland. After missing 27 games in 2004 and 2005 due to various injuries, he started 31 games over the past two seasons, and notched 38 tackles and 2.5 sacks in 2007. He is likely to be replaced by defensive/nose tackle Damione Lewis, who recently signed a 3-year $14 million contract with the Panthers earlier this offseason.
The acquisition of Jenkins will likely hasten the departure of failed former 1st round pick Dewayne Robertson, who never really filled the disruptive nose tackle role the Jets sought when they drafted him with the 4th overall pick in the 1st round in 2003. Robertson has a 2008 cap figure of over $11.2 million, including a $3 million roster bonus due in June, and a $6.8 million base salary, plus the prorated portion of his original signing bonus. It will be difficult to trade a player owed so much money who has only 14.5 sacks in 5 years, so he may be a likely candidate to be cut if New York can't find a willing trade partner soon.
UPDATE 02/29/2008 11:12AM: The base salaries of his deal will no longer be very palatable. Steve Reed of the Carolina Growl reports that Jenkins' agent Tony Paige has leaked details of a new 5-year $35 million contract for Jenkins, which will include $20 million in guaranteed money.
Reed also reports that the Panthers have been talking to DT Rod Coleman and DT/DE Tyler Brayton to help reshape their lineup. Brayton would certainly help them get younger and more explosive, while Coleman would simply eat up space and allow their linebackers to make more plays.
Jenkins joined the Panthers as a 2nd round pick in 2001 out of Maryland. After missing 27 games in 2004 and 2005 due to various injuries, he started 31 games over the past two seasons, and notched 38 tackles and 2.5 sacks in 2007. He is likely to be replaced by defensive/nose tackle Damione Lewis, who recently signed a 3-year $14 million contract with the Panthers earlier this offseason.
The acquisition of Jenkins will likely hasten the departure of failed former 1st round pick Dewayne Robertson, who never really filled the disruptive nose tackle role the Jets sought when they drafted him with the 4th overall pick in the 1st round in 2003. Robertson has a 2008 cap figure of over $11.2 million, including a $3 million roster bonus due in June, and a $6.8 million base salary, plus the prorated portion of his original signing bonus. It will be difficult to trade a player owed so much money who has only 14.5 sacks in 5 years, so he may be a likely candidate to be cut if New York can't find a willing trade partner soon.
UPDATE 02/29/2008 11:12AM: The base salaries of his deal will no longer be very palatable. Steve Reed of the Carolina Growl reports that Jenkins' agent Tony Paige has leaked details of a new 5-year $35 million contract for Jenkins, which will include $20 million in guaranteed money.
Reed also reports that the Panthers have been talking to DT Rod Coleman and DT/DE Tyler Brayton to help reshape their lineup. Brayton would certainly help them get younger and more explosive, while Coleman would simply eat up space and allow their linebackers to make more plays.
Raiders Re-Sign DT/DE Tommy Kelly To Asinine 7-Year $50 Million Deal
The Oakland Raiders have not had much success the past few years, and with their most recent roster moves they may not be getting better any time soon. Adam Schefter of NFL Networks reports that the team has re-signed defensive lineman Tommy Kelly to a whopping 7-year $50 million contract, including $18.1 million in guaranteed money.
Kelly joined Oakland as an undrafted free agent out of Mississippi State in 2004, and is coming of a 2007 season in which he missed half the year with a torn ACL, suffered in the October 28th game against the Tennessee Titans. He has averaged 33.5 tackles and 3.375 sacks per year for the Raiders, who were second to last in the league in rushing yards per game last year. Those aren't exactly the kind of contributions you want to pay top dollar for.
Kelly has allegedly been the team's most consistent defensive lineman the past two years, and has spent time at both defensive end and defensive tackle, but he is not a Pro Bowl caliber player, nor will he likely be for the length of his sparkling new contract. To pay an average defensive lineman over $7 million a year further illustrates the mismanagement of the Raiders' roster, and highlights the need for owner Al Davis to finally hand the team over to someone with a pulse who can clean house and hire a real general manager.
Kelly joined Oakland as an undrafted free agent out of Mississippi State in 2004, and is coming of a 2007 season in which he missed half the year with a torn ACL, suffered in the October 28th game against the Tennessee Titans. He has averaged 33.5 tackles and 3.375 sacks per year for the Raiders, who were second to last in the league in rushing yards per game last year. Those aren't exactly the kind of contributions you want to pay top dollar for.
Kelly has allegedly been the team's most consistent defensive lineman the past two years, and has spent time at both defensive end and defensive tackle, but he is not a Pro Bowl caliber player, nor will he likely be for the length of his sparkling new contract. To pay an average defensive lineman over $7 million a year further illustrates the mismanagement of the Raiders' roster, and highlights the need for owner Al Davis to finally hand the team over to someone with a pulse who can clean house and hire a real general manager.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
LT Flozell Adams Re-Ups With Cowboys For 6-Years, $42 Million
On the eve of free agency, the Dallas Cowboys have managed to keep their biggest remaining name out of the free agent bidding frenzy, by locking up left tackle Flozell Adams with a 6-year $42 million deal. Per ESPN's Ed Werder, Flozell will pocket a guaranteed $15 million over the first 3 years of the deal, so the $42 million is probably just another inflated number, and Adams will probably realistically collect half of that much before the team terminates or restructures the deal after 3 years when the high base salaries kick in.
Adams joined the Cowboys as a 2nd round pick out of Michigan State in 1998, and recently completed the 5-year $25 million contract he signed in 2003. He has started 146 games for the Cowboys over the past 10 years, and would have been one of the most sought after lineman available had he hit the free agent pool on February 29th.
Adams joined the Cowboys as a 2nd round pick out of Michigan State in 1998, and recently completed the 5-year $25 million contract he signed in 2003. He has started 146 games for the Cowboys over the past 10 years, and would have been one of the most sought after lineman available had he hit the free agent pool on February 29th.
Chargers Release FB Neal, S McCree, and OT Olivea
The San Diego Chargers are looking to improve an already deep roster, and are parting ways with some of the veterans to possibly inject more youth into the roster with the upcoming NFL Draft. The team released former Pro Bowl fullback Lorenzo Neal, safety Marlon McCree, and offensive tackle Shane Olivea. All three players will immediately enter the free agent pool and be free to sign with any team.
Fan favorite and old schooler blocking fullback Lorenzo Neal helped pave the way for much of all-world running back LaDainian Tomlinson's success the past few years, but will make way for younger model Andrew Pinnock, whom will cost significantly less.
Hard hitting safety Marlon McCree started 30 of 32 games for the Bolts over the past 2 years and provided veteran leadership, but the Chargers will probably move last year's 2nd round pick Eric Weddle into the lineup to provide more coverage versatility. Look for cornerback Paul Oliver, last year's acquisition through the NFL's supplemental draft, to get more playing time at nickel back if Weddle does indeed move to the starting safety spot.
Offensive tackle Shane Olivea was both a starter and solid backup contributor to the team since being drafted by the team in 2004, and was in the middle of a 6-year $20 million contract signed in 2006, but his base salaries in the deal may have been too much for the Chargers to stomach paying to a backup offensive tackle.
UPDATE 03/01/2008 1:23PM: The New York Jets are allegedly interested in possibly brining Olivea in a for a visit, but don't be surprised to see Olivea return to the Bolts at a reduced rate.
Fan favorite and old schooler blocking fullback Lorenzo Neal helped pave the way for much of all-world running back LaDainian Tomlinson's success the past few years, but will make way for younger model Andrew Pinnock, whom will cost significantly less.
Hard hitting safety Marlon McCree started 30 of 32 games for the Bolts over the past 2 years and provided veteran leadership, but the Chargers will probably move last year's 2nd round pick Eric Weddle into the lineup to provide more coverage versatility. Look for cornerback Paul Oliver, last year's acquisition through the NFL's supplemental draft, to get more playing time at nickel back if Weddle does indeed move to the starting safety spot.
Offensive tackle Shane Olivea was both a starter and solid backup contributor to the team since being drafted by the team in 2004, and was in the middle of a 6-year $20 million contract signed in 2006, but his base salaries in the deal may have been too much for the Chargers to stomach paying to a backup offensive tackle.
UPDATE 03/01/2008 1:23PM: The New York Jets are allegedly interested in possibly brining Olivea in a for a visit, but don't be surprised to see Olivea return to the Bolts at a reduced rate.
Bengals Re-Sign LB Dhani Jones to 3-Year Contract
The Cincinatti Bengals have quietly re-signed one of their newcomers from last year who quickly turned into a veteran leader, by inking weakside linebacker Dhani Jones to a 3-year deal for an undiclosed amount. Numbers for the length of the deal and amoung guaranteed have not yet been leaked by the team or Jones' agent Don Yee, so it probably isn't a big contract, but the Bengals.com website reports that Jones is expected to pocket about $2 million in 2008.
Jones was signed to the team off the street/scrap heap on September 19 last year, after a rash of injuries to the linebacking core left the team scrambling for help. He provided veteran leadership to a team desperately seeking help after an abysmal start, and was the only Bengal to record two 10-tackle games in 2008.
Jones was signed to the team off the street/scrap heap on September 19 last year, after a rash of injuries to the linebacking core left the team scrambling for help. He provided veteran leadership to a team desperately seeking help after an abysmal start, and was the only Bengal to record two 10-tackle games in 2008.
Eagles End Freakshow, Officially Cut DE Jevon Kearse
The Philadelphia Eagles have finally parted ways with defensive end Jevon Kearse, in the middle of his 8-year $66 million monster contract signed in 2004. He was benched part way through last year due to innefectiveness, and never regained the starting job from Juqua Thomas, an undrafted journeyman defensive lineman.
Nicknamed the 'Freak' because of his rare combination of size and speed, Kearse was drafted 16th overall in the 1st round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, where he was the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1999, and recorded 36 sacks in his first three years with the team. A foot injury limited him to 4 games the following year, and then in 2003 he signed a free agent contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, which at the time was the highest amount ever paid to a defensive lineman. Since that time injuries and innefectiveness limited his production with the team, and they finally decided to cut the cord to a player who never really lived up to his billing and high price with the team.
Kearse will immediately be free to sign with any team, and there has been talk of him rejoining Tennessee, at a reduced price. Injuries to his foot and knees over the past few years will have any free agent suitor leery of paying him big money again, but powerhouse agent Drew Rosenhaus should at least be able to get him a respectable deal.
Nicknamed the 'Freak' because of his rare combination of size and speed, Kearse was drafted 16th overall in the 1st round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, where he was the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1999, and recorded 36 sacks in his first three years with the team. A foot injury limited him to 4 games the following year, and then in 2003 he signed a free agent contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, which at the time was the highest amount ever paid to a defensive lineman. Since that time injuries and innefectiveness limited his production with the team, and they finally decided to cut the cord to a player who never really lived up to his billing and high price with the team.
Kearse will immediately be free to sign with any team, and there has been talk of him rejoining Tennessee, at a reduced price. Injuries to his foot and knees over the past few years will have any free agent suitor leery of paying him big money again, but powerhouse agent Drew Rosenhaus should at least be able to get him a respectable deal.
Rams Cut Bruce and Frerotte, Then Restructure Little's Contract, Freeing Up a Combined $10.485 Million
The St. Louis Rams have released former Pro Bowl wide receiver Isaac Bruce, who was due a $2 million roster bonus on Friday, and was scheduled to make $3 million in base salary in 2008, the final year of his contract. The team allegedly made an offer to Bruce at a reduced figure for $3 million total, but he rejected it and will hit the open market and be free to sign with any team immediately. The move will save the Rams approximately $5 million against the projected $116 million salary cap for 2008. The San Francisco 49ers are expected to come calling, as new offensive coordinator Mike Martz will be looking for some veterans who are familiar with his system, and the 49ers need an infusion of talent at the position in general.
St. Louis also released backup quarterback Gus Frerotte, who was due a $500,000 roster bonus, and scheduled to make a base salary of $1.4 million in 2008. The move frees up $1.9 million in cap space for the Rams, and leave the team with Marc Bulger as the only quarterback currently on the roster.
Per John Clayton of ESPN, St. Louis also agreed with defensive end Leonard Little on a simple restructuring of his $7.17 million roster bonus that was due this weekend, and converted it to a guaranteed signing bonus, allowing them to prorate it over the final 2 years of the deal, while saving the team $3.585 million against the cap. His cap figure will be $3.585 million higher next year, however, which will most likely force the team to take action by either re-signing him to another long term deal, or parting ways with Little.
St. Louis also released backup quarterback Gus Frerotte, who was due a $500,000 roster bonus, and scheduled to make a base salary of $1.4 million in 2008. The move frees up $1.9 million in cap space for the Rams, and leave the team with Marc Bulger as the only quarterback currently on the roster.
Per John Clayton of ESPN, St. Louis also agreed with defensive end Leonard Little on a simple restructuring of his $7.17 million roster bonus that was due this weekend, and converted it to a guaranteed signing bonus, allowing them to prorate it over the final 2 years of the deal, while saving the team $3.585 million against the cap. His cap figure will be $3.585 million higher next year, however, which will most likely force the team to take action by either re-signing him to another long term deal, or parting ways with Little.
Hornets Sting Suns 120-103, Completing 4-0 Sweep of Season Series
This season's surprise team, the New Orleans Hornets, continued their mastery of the Phoenix Suns this season, with a 120-103 victory at New Orleans Arena. The Hornets snapped a 3 game skid that dropped them from the top of the Western Conference to the #3 seed, and improved to 38-18 on the year.
NBA MVP candidate Chris Paul continued his domination of the best point guards in the league, outplaying 2 time MVP Steve Nash yet again, and leading his team to victory. Buoyed by Paul (25 pts, 15 asts, 3 stl), David West (27 pts, 4 reb, 2 stl), and Tyson Chandler (12 pts, 15 reb), the Hornets outscored the Suns by 16 in the pivotal 3rd quarter to put the game away for good, after a back and forth battle in the 1st half.
Despite a monster game from power forward Amare Stoudemire (32 pts, 14 reb, 4 blk, 1 stl) and good shooting from the field (47.9% FG, 50% 3PT), Phoenix couldn't keep up with the New Orleans fast break, nor could they really shut down anybody when the pace slowed for a possession here or there. The Suns now sit at #5 in the West with a 39-19 record, and are just 2-3 with newcomer Shaquille O'Neal in the lineup.
NBA MVP candidate Chris Paul continued his domination of the best point guards in the league, outplaying 2 time MVP Steve Nash yet again, and leading his team to victory. Buoyed by Paul (25 pts, 15 asts, 3 stl), David West (27 pts, 4 reb, 2 stl), and Tyson Chandler (12 pts, 15 reb), the Hornets outscored the Suns by 16 in the pivotal 3rd quarter to put the game away for good, after a back and forth battle in the 1st half.
Despite a monster game from power forward Amare Stoudemire (32 pts, 14 reb, 4 blk, 1 stl) and good shooting from the field (47.9% FG, 50% 3PT), Phoenix couldn't keep up with the New Orleans fast break, nor could they really shut down anybody when the pace slowed for a possession here or there. The Suns now sit at #5 in the West with a 39-19 record, and are just 2-3 with newcomer Shaquille O'Neal in the lineup.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
New Acquisitions Key Bulls 113-107 Win at Indiana
Chicago Bulls head coach Jim Boylan thinks that his team's chemistry is starting to come together, and new acquisitions Larry Hughes and Drew Gooden did little to disprove that theory, as Chicago edged the Indianapolis Pacers 113-107 at Canseco Fieldhouse. Hughes scored 29 points off the bench, and Gooden added 10 points and 15 boards to help the collect their first win with the newcomers in the lineup.
Aside from Hughes and Gooden, the Bulls once again got solid contributions from youngsters Joakim Noah and Tyrus Thomas, who continue to prove that they do not need the ball in their hands to be effective, and to be difference makers on the court. Chicago is an embarrasing 11 games below .500 (23-34), but is incredibly only 2 games out of the chase for slots 6, 7, and 8 in the pathetic Eastern Conference. Get your Bulls tickets now!
Indiana battled back and forth with the Bulls throughout a game marked by sloppy defense and questionable shot selection, but the last few minutes of the game could just not come up with big buckets to keep pace with Chicago, dropping the Pacers to 22-36 on the season. When your best players are Mike Dunleavy Jr., Travis Diener, and Danny Granger, and the legend of Jermaine O'Neal's knee, it really says something about the state of direspair the Pacers' roster is in, and the ineptitude of Larry Bird in a general manager capacity. If Indiana plans on being competitive any time in the next 5 years, the franchise needs to blow up the roster and front office this offseason, and hire a new qualified GM and head coach to run the show.
Aside from Hughes and Gooden, the Bulls once again got solid contributions from youngsters Joakim Noah and Tyrus Thomas, who continue to prove that they do not need the ball in their hands to be effective, and to be difference makers on the court. Chicago is an embarrasing 11 games below .500 (23-34), but is incredibly only 2 games out of the chase for slots 6, 7, and 8 in the pathetic Eastern Conference. Get your Bulls tickets now!
Indiana battled back and forth with the Bulls throughout a game marked by sloppy defense and questionable shot selection, but the last few minutes of the game could just not come up with big buckets to keep pace with Chicago, dropping the Pacers to 22-36 on the season. When your best players are Mike Dunleavy Jr., Travis Diener, and Danny Granger, and the legend of Jermaine O'Neal's knee, it really says something about the state of direspair the Pacers' roster is in, and the ineptitude of Larry Bird in a general manager capacity. If Indiana plans on being competitive any time in the next 5 years, the franchise needs to blow up the roster and front office this offseason, and hire a new qualified GM and head coach to run the show.
Chiefs Cut Law, Bell, Reed, and Dunn
The Kansas City Chiefs will release 4 more veterans today, including cornerback Ty Law, linebacker Kendrell Bell, defensive tackle James Reed, and tight end Jason Dunn. Law, Bell, and Reed were all starters for the Chiefs at one time, while Dunn was a significant backup.
The Chiefs have already released aging offensive tackle John Welbourn and wide receiver Eddie Kennison, as they will try to turn one of the older rosters in the NFL into one of the younger rosters. All of the released players will immediately be free to sign with any team, ahead of the free agency period that begins February 29 at 12:01am, because the team is effectively relinquishing their rights beforehand.
The Chiefs have already released aging offensive tackle John Welbourn and wide receiver Eddie Kennison, as they will try to turn one of the older rosters in the NFL into one of the younger rosters. All of the released players will immediately be free to sign with any team, ahead of the free agency period that begins February 29 at 12:01am, because the team is effectively relinquishing their rights beforehand.
Redskins Dump Lloyd, Rework Contracts of Samuels & Jansen
The Washington Redskins have finally cut the cord on dissapointing wide receiver Brandon Lloyd, after having wasted at least $15 million on him the past 2 years. Washington originally acquired the perenially underachieving wideout in a 2006 trade with the San Francisco 49ers, in which they gave up a 2006 3rd rounder and 2007 4th rounder. The Redskins brass then awarded Lloyd a 6-year $30 million contract, with $12 million in guaranteed money. According to the Washington Times, the Redskins will process the move as a post-June 1 cut, meaning they will spread the cap hit out over both 2008 and 2009, with $4.2 million hitting the cap this year. He will hit the free agent market immediately, but the interest from other teams will be tepid to lukewarm, at best.
In other Redskins news, the team has restructed the contracts of starting offensive tackles Jon Jansen and Chris Samuels, converting larger 2008 base salaries to guaranteed bonuses, and spreading the proration out over the remaining years of each deal. Samuels' prior $8.2 million cap number was reduced to $5.1 million, and Jansen's number was reduced from $7.7 million to $4.5 million. The two 'simple' restructurings will save the team about $6.5 million against the cap this year, but will push the cap figures for both players higher for the next couple of years, increasing the likelihood they will have to be addressed again in a year or two.
In other Redskins news, the team has restructed the contracts of starting offensive tackles Jon Jansen and Chris Samuels, converting larger 2008 base salaries to guaranteed bonuses, and spreading the proration out over the remaining years of each deal. Samuels' prior $8.2 million cap number was reduced to $5.1 million, and Jansen's number was reduced from $7.7 million to $4.5 million. The two 'simple' restructurings will save the team about $6.5 million against the cap this year, but will push the cap figures for both players higher for the next couple of years, increasing the likelihood they will have to be addressed again in a year or two.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Bears Extend QB Kyle Orton With 1 Year Deal
After signing quarterback Rex Grossman to a 1-year deal on Saturday, the Chicago Bears today signed quarterback Kyle Orton to a 1-year contract extension that will potentially keep him with the team through the 2009 season. All details of the contract have not yet been released/leaked, but Orton will reportedly receive a $1.6 million signing bonus, and will be able to make up to $5 million in incentives over the next two seasons. According to the Bears' brass, Orton and Grossman will actually engage in an open quarterback competition for the first time this coming training camp to determine who will hopefully be the team's quarterback of the future.As a 4th round draft choice of out Purdue in the 2005 NFL Draft, Orton ended up starting 15 games as a rookie due to injuries, and helped lead the Bears to the playoffs. He then sat on the bench for most of the next two years, mainly playing when injuries and innefectiveness of the team's other underachieving quarterbacks presented Orton the opportunity. For his NFL career, Orton has started 18 games and thrown for 2347 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions, good for a career passer rating of 62.2.
Vikes Deal WR Bust Troy Williamson to Jaguars For 6th Rounder
One man's junk is another man's treasure, or something like that. The Minnesota Vikings have agreed to send former 1st round draft pick and current wide receiver bust Troy Williamson to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a 2008 6th round draft pick.
Williamson was drafted #7 overall in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft out of South Carolina, and has contributed little to the organization since then. The alleged big play threat has averaged 19.7 catches and 1 touchdown per year since his arrival in Minnesota, which wasn't quite the impact the Vikings expected him to have when they reached for him in the draft to try to fill the void left by Randy Moss' departure. He will join a Jacksonville roster full of other 1st round offensive busts (Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, Marcedes Lewis), and probably have little to no impact.
Williamson was drafted #7 overall in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft out of South Carolina, and has contributed little to the organization since then. The alleged big play threat has averaged 19.7 catches and 1 touchdown per year since his arrival in Minnesota, which wasn't quite the impact the Vikings expected him to have when they reached for him in the draft to try to fill the void left by Randy Moss' departure. He will join a Jacksonville roster full of other 1st round offensive busts (Matt Jones, Reggie Williams, Marcedes Lewis), and probably have little to no impact.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Big Sky Conference Suspends 3 Refs For Blowing Montana-Idaho St. Game
The Big Sky Conference has officially suspended three officials for their actions in Sunday's Montana vs. Idaho State game. Eric Curry, Bob Scofield and Scott Harris will all be suspended for one game each.
A stir was caused when a Montana player attempted to call a timeout after securing a rebound, yet the officials did not grant the player a timeout, and the game moved to overtime tied at 58-58. Television replays clearly showed the timeout was called and recognized by the officials before the buzzer, yet no action was taken at the time by any official. The officials chose not to use the replay capabilites available to determine how much time would have been left had they called the timeout, and Montana went on to win 73-62 in overtime.
A stir was caused when a Montana player attempted to call a timeout after securing a rebound, yet the officials did not grant the player a timeout, and the game moved to overtime tied at 58-58. Television replays clearly showed the timeout was called and recognized by the officials before the buzzer, yet no action was taken at the time by any official. The officials chose not to use the replay capabilites available to determine how much time would have been left had they called the timeout, and Montana went on to win 73-62 in overtime.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Bears Re-Sign Grossman to 1-Year $5 Million Incentive-Laden Deal
The Chicago Bears have re-signed unrestricted free agent quarterback Rex Grossman to a 1-year, incentive laden deal, worth $3 million at the minimum, and $5 million with reachable incentives. So the Grossman experiment will continue in Chicago for at least one more year, to the chagrin of many Bears fans, who have seen both the brilliance and incompetence of 'Sexy Rexy' on display for the past four years.
As arguably the top free agent quarterback available in a weak talent pool, Grossman probably could have gotten more had he hit the market unsigned February 29th, but he would be moving to a new team and new offense, and then probably be looking for a new employer again next offseason. Agent Eugene Parker seems to have served Grossman well, as if he is able to perform well this year he will be able to search out a decent sized long term contract next year, when he'll be an unrestricted free agent again. Look for the Bears to quickly dump journeyman backup quarterback Brian Griese (owed a $300K roster bonus next month, with a $1.4 million base salary in 2008) , draft a young QB to develop in the middle rounds of this year's NFL Draft, and to let Grossman and Kyle Orton compete in training camp for the starting nod.
As arguably the top free agent quarterback available in a weak talent pool, Grossman probably could have gotten more had he hit the market unsigned February 29th, but he would be moving to a new team and new offense, and then probably be looking for a new employer again next offseason. Agent Eugene Parker seems to have served Grossman well, as if he is able to perform well this year he will be able to search out a decent sized long term contract next year, when he'll be an unrestricted free agent again. Look for the Bears to quickly dump journeyman backup quarterback Brian Griese (owed a $300K roster bonus next month, with a $1.4 million base salary in 2008) , draft a young QB to develop in the middle rounds of this year's NFL Draft, and to let Grossman and Kyle Orton compete in training camp for the starting nod.
Zach Thomas Signs 1-Year $3 Million Deal To Join Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have signed free agent lineback Zach Thomas to a 1-year $3 million contract, per a report from ESPN's John Clayton. Thomas recently visited the New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, and Cowboys, and decided to sign with Dallas for what is presumed to be the best contract offer from the three teams.
Thomas played 12 years with the Miami Dolphins before being cut earlier this month as the part of the Dolphins rebuilding project. The 34 year old missed most of last season with a concussion and the resulting after-effects. He is one of only 3 players in NFL history to have amassed 10 seasons with at least 100 tackles, and has registered more tackles than any player currently in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Thomas played 12 years with the Miami Dolphins before being cut earlier this month as the part of the Dolphins rebuilding project. The 34 year old missed most of last season with a concussion and the resulting after-effects. He is one of only 3 players in NFL history to have amassed 10 seasons with at least 100 tackles, and has registered more tackles than any player currently in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Suns Edge Celtics 85-77, Who Fall For 3rd Game In a Row to Western Conference
The big test Western Conference road trip is not going so well for the Eastern Conference leading Boston Celtics (41-12), who fell to the Phoenix Suns 85-77 at US Airways Center in Phoenix. "This West is no joke," said Boston's Kevin Garnett, who finished the evening with 19 points and only 5 rebounds, and got little help from his Celtics teammates. After starting the year 16-0 against the Western Conference, the Celtics have lost the first 3 games of their 5 game road trip out west. The Suns improved to 38-17 on the year (2nd in the Western Conference), and 22-2 against the Eastern Conference. The top 3 teams in the West are seperated by only 1/2 game at the top of the standings, with the Suns and Los Angeles Lakers battling neck and neck atop the Pacific Division.Rick Scuteri/AP Photo
Shaquille O'Neal only scored 4 points in his second game with the Suns, but grabbed 14 boards and was constantly igniting Suns fast break opportunities by looking ahead to guard Steve Nash with great outlet passes. O'Neal and forward Amare Stoudemire (28 pts, 6 reb, 3 blk) helped the Suns dominate the paint, outrebounding the Celtics 50-32, and didn't give up many easy looks. Boston scored a season low 30 points in the 1st half, and only shot 38.5% from the field for the game. Without even being asked about his teammates, O'Neal offered up praise for Stoudemire immediately after the game, saying "Amare Stoudemire is the best big man in the game right now -- period, bar none. I didn't know he was that good. But talking to him and watching him play, he's the best big man in the game at 25, and I mean that. I'm not just saying that to pump him up." The addition of O'Neal allows Stoudemire to move to his natural power forward position, and provides the Suns with the ability to pound the ball down low and defend the paint. By taking O'Neal out, they can then slide Stoudemire back to center and insert another guard like Leandro Barbosa and play uptempo small-ball, if they want to push opposing teams who don't play good transition defense.
Boston will finish out their road trip with relatively easy games at Portland on Sunday night and the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday night, which will helpfully cure the shooting woes of Paul Pierce (5 points on 2 for 13 shooting) and Ray Allen (11 points on 3 for 12 shooting).
Friday, February 22, 2008
Rockets Blast Hornets 100-80, Winning 11th In a Row
The Houston Rockets have taken off, and are in another orbit right now. Behind Tracy McGrady (34 pts, 6 ast) and Yao Ming (28 pts, 14 reb), Houston cruised to another easy win 100-80, this time over Western Conference leading New Orleans Hornets (37-16). The Rockets led most of the game at New Orleans Arena by double digits, and McGrady was generally unstoppable from all over the court, slicing for easy layups and dunks, when he wasn't busy draining contested jumpers. Yao totally dominated the paint and outplayed New Orleans center Tyson Chandler (9 pts, 5 reb) at nearly every point in the game.
The Rockets improved to 35-20, and won their franchise record 10th straight road game. Currently seeded 7th in the West, the Rockets are the NBA's hottest team, having won 11 straight game overall. The top 9 seeds in the West are seperated by only 1-3 games each, so this should make for a very interesting couple of months of basketball leading up to the playoffs, especially in light of all the recent trades brokered the past 2 weeks.
The Rockets improved to 35-20, and won their franchise record 10th straight road game. Currently seeded 7th in the West, the Rockets are the NBA's hottest team, having won 11 straight game overall. The top 9 seeds in the West are seperated by only 1-3 games each, so this should make for a very interesting couple of months of basketball leading up to the playoffs, especially in light of all the recent trades brokered the past 2 weeks.
Undermanned Bulls Stomp Nuggets 135-121
Chicago Bulls guard Ben Gordon scored 37 points on 12-18 shooting from the field to help the undermanned Bulls drop the Denver Nuggets 135-121 at the United Center in Chicago. The Bulls scored a season high 135 points on a scorching 57.1% from the field, even without the services of newly acquired Larry Hughes and Drew Gooden, whom the team received from Cleveland in a complex 3-team 11-player trade on Thursday, because not all players have completed their team physicals yet.
As part of the trade with Cleveland, the Bulls unloaded starting big men Ben Wallace and Joe Smith, partially to clear up more playing time for youngsters Tyrus Thomas (18 pts, 11 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 3 blk in 34 minutes), Joakim Noah (14 pts, 10 reb, 2 blk in 38 minutes), and Aaron Gray (4 pts, 5 reb in 12 minutes), who all responded well on Friday night to increased playing time. Chicago moves to 22-32 on the year, 1.5 games behind the Philadelphia 76ers for the 8th and final Eastern Conference playoff spot.
Allen Iverson scored 27 points and doled out 9 assists for the visiting Nuggets, but they were outrebounded 44-37 by the Bulls, and showed absolutely no interest defensively, giving up easy layups, dunks, and jumpers from all over the court. Denver slid to 33-21 on the season, holding on to the 8th seed in the West by a 1/2 game over the Golden State Warriors. If the Nuggets want to make the playoffs, or even potentially win a playoff game this year, they are going to have to display more zeal and passion on the defensive end, or they can forget making any noise this season in an increasingly competitive Western Conference.
As part of the trade with Cleveland, the Bulls unloaded starting big men Ben Wallace and Joe Smith, partially to clear up more playing time for youngsters Tyrus Thomas (18 pts, 11 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 3 blk in 34 minutes), Joakim Noah (14 pts, 10 reb, 2 blk in 38 minutes), and Aaron Gray (4 pts, 5 reb in 12 minutes), who all responded well on Friday night to increased playing time. Chicago moves to 22-32 on the year, 1.5 games behind the Philadelphia 76ers for the 8th and final Eastern Conference playoff spot.
Allen Iverson scored 27 points and doled out 9 assists for the visiting Nuggets, but they were outrebounded 44-37 by the Bulls, and showed absolutely no interest defensively, giving up easy layups, dunks, and jumpers from all over the court. Denver slid to 33-21 on the season, holding on to the 8th seed in the West by a 1/2 game over the Golden State Warriors. If the Nuggets want to make the playoffs, or even potentially win a playoff game this year, they are going to have to display more zeal and passion on the defensive end, or they can forget making any noise this season in an increasingly competitive Western Conference.
Sampson 'Resigns' From Indiana Basketball With $750K Buyout/Payoff
The other shoe has finally dropped, and basketball coach Kelvin Sampson is officially done at Indiana University. After a recent report from the NCAA accused Sampson of 5 major recruiting violations, among other things, IU conducted their own internal investigation, and agreed to a $750,000 buyout settlement of his contract, which still had 5 years and over $5 million left on it. Under the terms of the deal, Sampson will waive his right to sue the university for futher damages, to help the school avoid any wrongful termination suits, and let both parties put this behind them and focus on moving forward.
Assistant coach Dan Dakich will take over the basketball program for the remainder of this year, as the school and players look to regroup. The Hoosiers are 21-4 and currently ranked #14 in the ESPN/USA Today coaches poll, and recently beat #15 Purdue and #17 Michigan State last week.
Assistant coach Dan Dakich will take over the basketball program for the remainder of this year, as the school and players look to regroup. The Hoosiers are 21-4 and currently ranked #14 in the ESPN/USA Today coaches poll, and recently beat #15 Purdue and #17 Michigan State last week.
Huizenga Sells 50% Stake In Dolphins to Developer Stephen Ross For $550 Million
Stephen Ross, a long time real estate developer and chairman of Related Companies, an international real estate company, has agreed to a deal to purchase a 50% of the stake in the Miami Dolphins from current owner Wayne Huizenga. Under the terms of the deal Ross will acquire half of the franchise, Dolphin Stadium, and the surrounding developable land currently owned by Huizenga.
Huizenga has been the sole owner of the Dolphins since 1994, when he purchased the team from the heirs of team found Joe Robbie for $138 million, and will remain the managing partner of the team until he is ready to pass the mantle to Ross. Rumors broke of a potential deal last year, and have been shrouded in secrecy until now.
Per Forbes Magazine's annual list of NFL franchise values, the Miami Dolphins were valued at approximately $942 million, with revenues gross revenues of $215 million, checking in at 15th place on the 2007 list.
Huizenga has been the sole owner of the Dolphins since 1994, when he purchased the team from the heirs of team found Joe Robbie for $138 million, and will remain the managing partner of the team until he is ready to pass the mantle to Ross. Rumors broke of a potential deal last year, and have been shrouded in secrecy until now.
Per Forbes Magazine's annual list of NFL franchise values, the Miami Dolphins were valued at approximately $942 million, with revenues gross revenues of $215 million, checking in at 15th place on the 2007 list.
Browns Retain RB Jamal Lewis With 3-Year $17 Million Deal
Running back Jamal Lewis has agreed to terms that will keep him with the Cleveland Browns for up to the next three years, with a reported $17 million contract through 2010. Lewis joined the Browns in 2007 as a free agent by signing a 1-year $3.5 million base salary contract, in which he made $5 million overall because of incentives reached. The deal will allow the Browns to keep a running back in the fold who is still only 28 years old and who rushed for 1304 yards and 9 touchdowns in their system last year.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Patriots Hire Dom Capers As Their Secondary Coach
Bypassing a potential opportunity to be the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, coach Dom Capers has agreed to a deal to be the secondary coach for the New England Patriots in 2008, and potentially beyond. He most recently served as the defensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins in 2006 and 2007, before being released this offseason. Capers was one of the highest paid coordinators in the NFL, at roughly $2.6 million a year with the Dolphins.
Capers has been coaching in the NFL for over 20 years, including numerous defensive coordinator jobs, as well as being the head coach of the expansion Carolina Panthers for 4 years, and the head coach of the expansion Houston Texans for 4 years.
Capers has been coaching in the NFL for over 20 years, including numerous defensive coordinator jobs, as well as being the head coach of the expansion Carolina Panthers for 4 years, and the head coach of the expansion Houston Texans for 4 years.
Ginobili Explodes For 44, As Spurs Edge Timberwolves 100-99
When San Antonio Spurs guard Manu Ginobili is on a roll, he is virtually unstoppable. Ginobili poured in 44 points, including the winning jumper from the top of the key with 6.2 seconds left that put the Spurs on top of the Minnesota Timberwolves 100-99, winning their fourth straight game. The victory is the Spurs seventh in their last eight road games, and leaves them at 36-17 for the year, currently good for the 5th seed in the Western Conference.
Al Jefferson had 28 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 blocked shots, but it wasn't good enough for the Timberwolves, who fell to 11-42 (2nd worst in the NBA, and 2nd best in the chase for the #1 overall pick during the 2008 NBA Draft Lottery). It seemed like every time Minnesota made a move to take the lead, Tim Duncan (24 pts, 14 reb, 7 ast, 3 stl, 4 blks), Michael Finley (13 pts), or Ginobili (44 pts, includingg 7 3-pointers) would fire back to keep the Spurs in it until the end. Minnesota guard Sebastian Telfair attempted an open 3 pointer with time expiring, but the attempt rimmed in and out, sealing the Spurs victory.
Al Jefferson had 28 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 blocked shots, but it wasn't good enough for the Timberwolves, who fell to 11-42 (2nd worst in the NBA, and 2nd best in the chase for the #1 overall pick during the 2008 NBA Draft Lottery). It seemed like every time Minnesota made a move to take the lead, Tim Duncan (24 pts, 14 reb, 7 ast, 3 stl, 4 blks), Michael Finley (13 pts), or Ginobili (44 pts, includingg 7 3-pointers) would fire back to keep the Spurs in it until the end. Minnesota guard Sebastian Telfair attempted an open 3 pointer with time expiring, but the attempt rimmed in and out, sealing the Spurs victory.
Timberwolves Trade Gerald Green to Rockets For Kirk Snyder & 2nd Rounder
The Minnesota Timberwolves traded former 1st round pick Gerald Green to the Houston Rockets for undersized forward Kirk Snyder, a 2010 2nd round pick, and an undisclosed sum of cash. The deal allows the Timberwolves future salary flexibility, as Snyder only has a team option left on his deal for next year, and his performance thus far has hardly merited anyone paying him next year. Gerald Green also has an expiring contract and has contributed little, so the move seemed to be for little other than picking up a pick for the Wolves, and the Rockets trying to add some athleticism to their bench for the coming playoff run.
Cavaliers Acquire Ben Wallace, Wally Szczerbiak, Delonte West, and Joe Smith in 3 Team 11 Player Deal at NBA Trade Deadline
Lebron James wanted help, and Cleveland Cavaliers general manger Danny Ferry has delivered. The Cavs acquired center Ben Wallace, forward Joe Smith, and a 2nd round pick in 2009 from the Chicago Bulls, and forward Wally Szczerbiak and guard Delonte West from the Seattle Supersonics in a colossal 3 team, 11 player trade. Under the terms of the deal, the Bulls will receive guards Larry Hughes and Shannon Brown, and forwards Drew Gooden and Cedric Simmons from the Cavs. The Sonics will receive the expiring contracts of forwards Ira Newble and Donyell Marshall from the Cavs, as well as the expiring contract of guard Adrian Griffin from the Bulls. To recap:
Cavaliers:
+ Bulls F/C Ben Wallace (owed $28.5 million over next 2 years)
+ Bulls F Joe Smith (expiring contract)
+ Bulls 2009 2nd-round pick
+ Sonics F Wally Szczerbiak (owed $13 million next year, then gone)
+ Sonics G Delonte West (expiring contract)
- F Drew Gooden
- G Larry Hughes
- F Cedric Simmons
- G Shannon Brown
Bulls:
+ Cavaliers F Drew Gooden (owed $7.1 million next year, then gone)
+ Cavaliers G Larry Hughes (owed $25 million over next 2 years)
+ Cavaliers F Cedric Simmons (owed $1.7 million next year, then team option)
+ Cavaliers G Shannon Brown (expiring contract)
- F/C Ben Wallace
- F Joe Smith
- 2009 2nd-round pick
- F Adrian Griffin
Sonics:
+ Cavaliers F Ira Newble (expiring contract)
+ Cavaliers F Donyell Marshall (owed $6 million next year, then gone)
+ Bulls F Adrian Griffin (owed $1.7 million next year, then gone)
- F Wally Szczerbiak
- G Delonte West
This is one of those rare deals that may actually work out for all parties involved. Cleveland will get better defensively with the acquisition of Wallace and Smith, and will get some much need outside shooting from Szczerbiak, while ridding themselves of Larry Hughes, whose game didn't really complement that of Lebron James. The Bulls get a consistent scoring threat at shooting guard in the form of Hughes (who's owed $25 million total over the final two years of his contract), while dumping the underperforming Wallace's salary to clear up playing time for youngsters Aaron Gray, Joakim Noah, and Tyrus Thomas. Finally, the Sonics continue to reshape their roster and take on expiring contracts as they build for the future. Seattle's general manager Sam Presti continues to make intelligent decisions, and will be armed with tons of salary cap space to sign free agents, along with an absurd 13 draft picks over the next 3 years, including 6 1st round picks, and 7 2nd round picks.
Cavaliers:
+ Bulls F/C Ben Wallace (owed $28.5 million over next 2 years)
+ Bulls F Joe Smith (expiring contract)
+ Bulls 2009 2nd-round pick
+ Sonics F Wally Szczerbiak (owed $13 million next year, then gone)
+ Sonics G Delonte West (expiring contract)
- F Drew Gooden
- G Larry Hughes
- F Cedric Simmons
- G Shannon Brown
Bulls:
+ Cavaliers F Drew Gooden (owed $7.1 million next year, then gone)
+ Cavaliers G Larry Hughes (owed $25 million over next 2 years)
+ Cavaliers F Cedric Simmons (owed $1.7 million next year, then team option)
+ Cavaliers G Shannon Brown (expiring contract)
- F/C Ben Wallace
- F Joe Smith
- 2009 2nd-round pick
- F Adrian Griffin
Sonics:
+ Cavaliers F Ira Newble (expiring contract)
+ Cavaliers F Donyell Marshall (owed $6 million next year, then gone)
+ Bulls F Adrian Griffin (owed $1.7 million next year, then gone)
- F Wally Szczerbiak
- G Delonte West
This is one of those rare deals that may actually work out for all parties involved. Cleveland will get better defensively with the acquisition of Wallace and Smith, and will get some much need outside shooting from Szczerbiak, while ridding themselves of Larry Hughes, whose game didn't really complement that of Lebron James. The Bulls get a consistent scoring threat at shooting guard in the form of Hughes (who's owed $25 million total over the final two years of his contract), while dumping the underperforming Wallace's salary to clear up playing time for youngsters Aaron Gray, Joakim Noah, and Tyrus Thomas. Finally, the Sonics continue to reshape their roster and take on expiring contracts as they build for the future. Seattle's general manager Sam Presti continues to make intelligent decisions, and will be armed with tons of salary cap space to sign free agents, along with an absurd 13 draft picks over the next 3 years, including 6 1st round picks, and 7 2nd round picks.
Cowboys Place Franchise Tag On Safety Ken Hamlin
The Dallas Cowboys have placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on safety Ken Hamlin, guaranteeing him a one year salary of $4.396 million for 2008. Hamlin finished 2007 with 62 tackles, 5 interceptions, 14 passes defended, and made it to his first Pro Bowl. He arguably would have been the top unrestricted free agent safety on the market, so the Cowboys thought it wise to lock him up for at least one more year.
Hamlin came to the Cowboys last offseason after signing a 1 year $2.5 million contract. He spent most of the 2005 season watching from the sidelines after an altercation outside a nightclub in Seattle left him with a fractured skull, after being hit over the head with a street sign. He returned from the injury in 2006 and played all 16 games with the Seattle Seahawks, notching 96 tackles, 3 interceptions, 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble.
Hamlin came to the Cowboys last offseason after signing a 1 year $2.5 million contract. He spent most of the 2005 season watching from the sidelines after an altercation outside a nightclub in Seattle left him with a fractured skull, after being hit over the head with a street sign. He returned from the injury in 2006 and played all 16 games with the Seattle Seahawks, notching 96 tackles, 3 interceptions, 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble.
Franchised TE Dallas Clark Agrees to 6-Year $41 Million Contract With Colts
After recently placing the franchise tag on unrestricted free agent tight end Dallas Clark on Tuesday, the Indianapolis Colts today signed him to a 6-year $41 million contract, the largest ever for a tight end. Details of the contract, including a signing bonus or guaranteed money, have not been leaked out yet, but per Mike Chappell's report from the Indianapolis Star, the contract will pay Clark an average of $6.83 million annually, topping the Chiefs' Tony Gonzalez high water mark of $6.2 million per year, even though Clark has never been to a Pro Bowl.
Clark has started 64 games in his first 5 years in the league, and has averaged 35.8 catches a year. He was drafted out of Iowa by the Colts as the 24th overall pick in the 1st round of the 2003 NFL Draft. According to an online bio, Clark joined the Iowa Hawkeyes in 1999 as a walk on, and saw action in 2000 in 6 games as a linebacker and special teams player. Prior to the 2001 season coaches moved him to tight end, where he eventually became an All-American player, and has now become the NFL's highest paid tight end in history.
Clark has started 64 games in his first 5 years in the league, and has averaged 35.8 catches a year. He was drafted out of Iowa by the Colts as the 24th overall pick in the 1st round of the 2003 NFL Draft. According to an online bio, Clark joined the Iowa Hawkeyes in 1999 as a walk on, and saw action in 2000 in 6 games as a linebacker and special teams player. Prior to the 2001 season coaches moved him to tight end, where he eventually became an All-American player, and has now become the NFL's highest paid tight end in history.
Broncos' Travis Henry Restructures Deal to Stay With Team
Running back Travis Henry today agreed to restructure his contract, that was set pay him a roster bonus of $6 million on February 29 if the Denver Broncos wanted to keep him in the fold. Terms of the new deal were not disclosed, but they will prevent Henry from being cut, and most likely free up some salary cap space for the Broncos. Henry joined the team last offseason by signing a 5-year $22.5 million contract with $12 million in guaranteed money.
Henry ran for 651 yards while splitting carries with undrafted free agent rookie running back Selvin Young, and spent part of last year battling knee and rib injuries, and also beat the rap on an alleged 4th positive drug test that would have sent him packing, and resulted in a year long suspension at a minimum. Instead, Henry and his team of lawyers allegedly used the old "it wasn't my pot, I inhaled it at a party" excuse in their appeal, and surprisingly won their case.
Henry ran for 651 yards while splitting carries with undrafted free agent rookie running back Selvin Young, and spent part of last year battling knee and rib injuries, and also beat the rap on an alleged 4th positive drug test that would have sent him packing, and resulted in a year long suspension at a minimum. Instead, Henry and his team of lawyers allegedly used the old "it wasn't my pot, I inhaled it at a party" excuse in their appeal, and surprisingly won their case.
Panthers Cut RB Foster to Clear $4.75 Million in Cap Space
The Carolina Panthers have released 28-year old running back DeShaun Foster, whom they have been unable to find a trade partner for this offseason. Foster showed flashes of the skills that made him the team's 2nd round pick out of UCLA in 2002, but was often set back by various injuries and costly fumbles. He should find a taker in the upcoming free agent market, which is relatively thin at running back, and latch on somewhere as a quality backup.
The roster move frees up about $4.75 million in cap space, and leaves 2006 1st round pick DeAngelo Williams as the team's only legitimate running back threat. Look for the Panthers to either try to pick up a running back in free agency next month, or to perhaps draft one in the middle rounds to complement Williams next year.
The roster move frees up about $4.75 million in cap space, and leaves 2006 1st round pick DeAngelo Williams as the team's only legitimate running back threat. Look for the Panthers to either try to pick up a running back in free agency next month, or to perhaps draft one in the middle rounds to complement Williams next year.
In Questionable Move, Steelers Place Transition Tag On OT Max Starks
The Pittsburgh Steelers have placed the transition tag on offensive tackle Max Starks, guaranteeing him a one year salary equal to the average of the ten highest paid players at his position in 2007, which amounts to $6.895 million for the coming League year. With the transition tag, the Steelers are entitled to no compensation if Starks leaves, but have 7 days to match any contract offered to him.
This move is highly questionable for two reasons, the first being the amount being offered to Starks. After being a starter for 2 out of the last 4 years, Starks lost his starting right tackle job to Willie Colon this past season. When left tackle Marvel Smith, who the Steelers are already paying a good amount to, went down with an injury, Starks filled in admirably for him the last 3 weeks. So will the Steelers really be able to keep three starting caliber offensive tackles? We'll see.
The other reason this move is questionable is the use of the transition tag itself. The transition tag means that the team is comitting nearly as much as the franchise tag, yet receives no compenstation if the player signs with another team. If they had simply placed the franchise tag on Starks (at $7.455 million, or roughly $500k more), the Steelers would be entitled to two future 1st round picks if another team were to sign him away.
The only real logical explanation for the Steelers' use of the transition tag is to demonstrate its innefectiveness, and to get the league to finally address the so called "poison pill" loophill that is currently allowed by the NFL's collective bargaining agreement. By using a 'poison pill' incentive system in a player contract, another NFL team can effectively steal away an opposing player by creating a contract that would be impossible or impractical for the player's original team to match, rendering the transition tag effectively worthless. For example, in 2006 the Minnesota Vikings offered guard Steve Hutchinson a 7-year $49 million contract, and included a stipulation that would guarantee the entire deal in the event that Hutchinson was not the highest paid player on the team's offensive line in any given year of the deal. Seattle, which already had highly paid offensive tackle Walter Jones on the roster, was essentially unable to match the deal without guarteeing all $49 million to Hutchinson. In retaliation, Seattle signed restricted free agent wide receiver Nate Burleson, whom Minnesota had previously given a RFA tender, to a 7-year $49 million contract that included a clause to fully guarantee the deal if Burleson plays at least 5 games in Minnesota in any year of the deal. The deal was basically a 4 year $14 million contract, but with a bunch of escalators and the clause that made Minnesota essentially unable to match.
At the time of those two deals both NFL commisioner Paul Tagliabue and NFLPA president Gene Upshaw agreed that the use of a 'poison pill' loophole was "not in the spirit" of the collective bargaining agreement, and that something needed to be done about it. However, on March 20 2006 'special master' (arbiter) Stephen Burbank heard arguments from the respective parties and ruled that it was legal under the terms of the current CBA. The NFL nor the NFLPA did anything to address it during the last round of CBA negotiations either, but that could quickly change during the next round of negotiations, especially if the Steelers lose Starks in a similar fashion.
This move is highly questionable for two reasons, the first being the amount being offered to Starks. After being a starter for 2 out of the last 4 years, Starks lost his starting right tackle job to Willie Colon this past season. When left tackle Marvel Smith, who the Steelers are already paying a good amount to, went down with an injury, Starks filled in admirably for him the last 3 weeks. So will the Steelers really be able to keep three starting caliber offensive tackles? We'll see.
The other reason this move is questionable is the use of the transition tag itself. The transition tag means that the team is comitting nearly as much as the franchise tag, yet receives no compenstation if the player signs with another team. If they had simply placed the franchise tag on Starks (at $7.455 million, or roughly $500k more), the Steelers would be entitled to two future 1st round picks if another team were to sign him away.
The only real logical explanation for the Steelers' use of the transition tag is to demonstrate its innefectiveness, and to get the league to finally address the so called "poison pill" loophill that is currently allowed by the NFL's collective bargaining agreement. By using a 'poison pill' incentive system in a player contract, another NFL team can effectively steal away an opposing player by creating a contract that would be impossible or impractical for the player's original team to match, rendering the transition tag effectively worthless. For example, in 2006 the Minnesota Vikings offered guard Steve Hutchinson a 7-year $49 million contract, and included a stipulation that would guarantee the entire deal in the event that Hutchinson was not the highest paid player on the team's offensive line in any given year of the deal. Seattle, which already had highly paid offensive tackle Walter Jones on the roster, was essentially unable to match the deal without guarteeing all $49 million to Hutchinson. In retaliation, Seattle signed restricted free agent wide receiver Nate Burleson, whom Minnesota had previously given a RFA tender, to a 7-year $49 million contract that included a clause to fully guarantee the deal if Burleson plays at least 5 games in Minnesota in any year of the deal. The deal was basically a 4 year $14 million contract, but with a bunch of escalators and the clause that made Minnesota essentially unable to match.
At the time of those two deals both NFL commisioner Paul Tagliabue and NFLPA president Gene Upshaw agreed that the use of a 'poison pill' loophole was "not in the spirit" of the collective bargaining agreement, and that something needed to be done about it. However, on March 20 2006 'special master' (arbiter) Stephen Burbank heard arguments from the respective parties and ruled that it was legal under the terms of the current CBA. The NFL nor the NFLPA did anything to address it during the last round of CBA negotiations either, but that could quickly change during the next round of negotiations, especially if the Steelers lose Starks in a similar fashion.
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