- Sep 29, 2005
- 100
- 10
ESPN NFL Insider Request
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by kicker6136,
- Start date
http://[h3]
http://[h3]Childress-McNabb reunion?[/h3]
12:05PM ET
[h5]Donovan McNabb | Eagles | Interested: Cardinals?, 49ers?, Rams?, Panthers?, Jaguars?, Bills?, ********?, Vikings?, Browns? [/h5]
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[h5]Hypothetical destinations for No. 5[/h5]
Have we seen the last game for http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=1753http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=1753Donovan McNabb in Philly? Unlike teammate -- and fellow Pro Bowl sub -- Quintin Mikell, McNabb will not be available to the press on Monday following his promotion to the Pro Bowl, which makes you wonder ...
If he is done with the Eagles, it could dovetail nicely with Brett Favre's last game in Minnesota, in that Vikings head coach Brad Childress -- who coached McNabb for seven years -- might be in the market for a veteran replacement, given the nausea-inducing alternatives (Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels). We think Vikes fans would take a little of McNabb's Willie Beamen impression over those two 10 times out of 10.
In addition to the Vikes, what about the 49ers? Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News wrote last week that it would make sense, with the Niners sending a second-round pick in return. We're not so sure it makes sense for the Niners; in addition to destroying Alex Smith's newly found confidence, it'd also more than likely involve an installation of the West Coast offense, yet another scheme overhaul.
NFL Insider Adam Schefter emailed in Monday morning with some insight as to why the Vikings are a particularly intriguing choice:
[h5]Adam Schefter[/h5]
Connections aplenty for Donovan in Minny
http://[h3]Jones on the move for 2010?[/h3]
11:59AM ET
[h5]Thomas Jones | Jets | Interested: Chargers?, Texans? [/h5]
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[h5]Jones in his 30s[/h5]
Thomas Jones has been the exception to the age-old wisdom regarding NFL running backs in old age. Most backs start declining at age 30, but in his age 30 season (200
and age 31 season (2009), he's had arguably his greatest campaigns, as seen at right.
So why in the world would the New York Jets be weighing whether or not to let him walk in free agency? That's the subject of debate right now, and in conversations with a few Jets beat writers this past weekend, Phillip B. Wilson of the Indianapolis Star has gotten the sense that the team might do just that. With the Jets' season-ending loss on Sunday, that feeling will only intensify. Jones is due a $3 million roster bonus on March 1, and rookie Shonn Greene answered the call nicely down the stretch of the regular season and in the playoffs.
Additionally, the Jets should also have Leon Washington back next season, giving them a shifty back to pair with Greene. If Jones is not retained, we could see him getting some interest from the Chargers and Texans, both of whom will need a between-the-tackles back for 2010.
http://[h3]Marinelli back in the mix for DC?[/h3]
10:49AM ET
[h5]Rod Marinelli | Lions [/h5]
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When Perry Fewell accepted the DC job with the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=nygNew York Giants, the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=chiChicago Bears lost what was believed to be their top option at the same post. Lovie Smith will not be running the show on D, and the initial thinking was that defensive line coach Rod Marinelli would not be promoted.
But Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune provides an update on the Bears' search for a defensive coordinator on Monday, and he notes that it's still possible the team looks to promote Marinelli to run the D.
If they don't, who does that leave? A couple weeks back, the Tribune noted that ESPN analyst Herm Edwards, former Jets and Chiefs head coach, could be an option. The league's No. 23 run defense in 2009? WE CAN BUILD ON THIS!
Two other names could be in play per Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times -- Vikings LB coach Fred Pagac and Colts DB coach Alan Williams -- and with the Vikes eliminated on Sunday, perhaps Pagac will get a call.
http://[h3]Braylon's big day ups value?[/h3]
10:39AM ET
[h5]Braylon Edwards | Jets | Interested: Jets? [/h5]
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We're not sure what value the open market would bear for New York Jets wideout (and restricted free agent) Braylon Edwards, in spite of his draft pedigree and massive game (including an 80-yard TD) in the AFC Championship. But maybe he won't have to worry about his market value, after all. Bob Glauber of Newsday tweeted last Wednesday morning that the Jets are going to tender Edwards at a level that would force other teams to give up a first- and third-round pick in order to sign him. Would any other team give up that much? We have our doubts.
Asked about the report that he'd be around for another season with the Jets, Edwards said (per The Associated Press), "I hadn't heard anything about it, but if that's something they're definitely doing, I'm excited."
So hang on to those No. 17 Jets jerseys, folks, they're good for at least one more season. While we're doling out advice to Gang Green Nation, the Jets' faithful can now forget about the team trading for http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9705Brandon Marshall or http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=4512Anquan Boldin. In a prior tweet, Glauber noted that if the team kept Braylon, it would not go after the big-fish WRs that are apparently on the trade block.
[h5]Adam Schefter[/h5]
Keeping Braylon the smart move
http://[h3]Favre re-revisiting retirement?[/h3]
10:36AM ET
[h5]Brett Favre | Vikings [/h5]
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We're probably not going to have a real answer until the 2010 regular season starts and Mr. Favre is (or isn't) in uniform and on the field somewhere, but the QB was asked about retirement during this postseason run. Favre told ESPN's Ed Werder "If you win, you go on. If you lose, you're done, and for me, that could very well be my last game."
Now that the Vikings are out, the real self-reflection comes for No. 4. Favre mentioned in the post-game news conference that he's "going to go home a couple days, and talk it over with the family," but did insinuate that his decision process wouldn't take as long as it did last offseason. Favre also told Werder after the game that it was "highly unlikely" that he'd play again, per NFL Insider Adam Schefter on Twitter.
[h5]Adam Schefter[/h5]
Already sick of Favre and the R-word?
http://[h3]Devin moving up depth chart?[/h3]
9:54AM ET
[h5]Devin Aromashodu | Bears [/h5]
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Looking ahead to 2010, it appears as though http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9819Devin Aromashodu should be in the mix for a starting job, given head coach Lovie Smith's comments to the Chicago Sun-Times as the season wound down. We're not sure if the development of http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9643Devin Hester, http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=12678Johnny Knox and Aromashodu will preclude the Bears from acquiring another WR this offseason via free agency or the draft, but this could be a solid unit by the time next season rolls around.
One man who is not surprised by Aromashodu's success down the stretch is Colts WR Reggie Wayne. Wayne mentored Aromashodu when the latter was on the practice squad for the Colts' last Super Bowl team, and the elder maintains a relationship. "I'm just happy for him to be able to get somewhere and show what he is able to do. Hopefully, they stick with him."
Prior to the season finale, Aaron Schatz of the Football Outsiders emailed in wondering why it's taken Aromashodu so long to get his chance:
[h5]Football Outsiders[/h5]
Cutler's favorite makes his mark
http://[h3]New Marshall scenarios?[/h3]
9:44AM ET
[h5]Brandon Marshall | Broncos | Interested: Dolphins?, Rams?, Cardinals?, Cowboys?, Patriots?, Bengals?, Seahawks?, ********?, Ravens? [/h5]
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[h5]Destinations for Brandon[/h5]
There's been ongoing speculation that http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9705http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9705Brandon Marshall has played his last snap for the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=denhttp://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=denDenver Broncos. We've also been hearing buzz that he could be headed to a few different locales.
While those past picks are summarized at right, Dave Krieger of the Denver Post speculated on some new spots on Sunday. He sends Marshall to the Ravens for their first-rounder (No. 25 overall), Marshall plus the Broncos' first-rounder to St. Louis for the No. 1 overall pick, Marshall to the Dolphins for Ted Ginn Jr. and Miami's second-rounder (No. 43 overall) and Marshall to Arizona for Anquan Boldin, straight up. How neatly our rumor mill would dovetail with that last one, eh?
While all of these have varying degrees of likelihood, there's really no hope that Marshall stays in Denver:
[h5]Bill Williamson[/h5]
Return package could be huge for Brandon
http://[h3]Rams eyeing WRs?[/h3]
9:42AM ET
[h5]St. Louis Rams [/h5]
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There's a lot of room for improvement from 1-15, but it's important to have a distinct strategy to realize that improvement. So it is with the St. Louis Rams, whose GM Billy Devaney recent told StLouisRams.com that "We need playmakers."
OK, that seems a little vague. He clarified: "guys that can score touchdowns from way out, guys that can sack the quarterback, make a difference, impact a game. I think that's what we have to focus on right now, guys that are game changers on both sides of the ball." Still a little wiggle room there, but with their team's needs in mind, we can formulate who they'll go after this offseason.
QB is an obvious answer, and they've been linked to Michael Vick. As for sacking opposing QBs, all signs still point to them drafting Ndamukong Suh first overall. They already have Steven Jackson at RB, but WR could be the area upon which they'll focus. Don't be surprised if the Rams trade back into the first round if they see someone they like falling, or make a play for one of the veterans on the trade block: Brandon Marshall or Anquan Boldin, in particular.
http://[h3]Frazier's prospects increase?[/h3]
9:30AM ET
[h5]Leslie Frazier [/h5]
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[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/nfl.gif[/img]
From what we know now, it would appear that Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier has again missed the chance to advance his career to the head coach level. There were scant opportunities -- only the ********, Seahawks and Bills actually made a change -- and Frazier was still involved in the playoffs when those hires were made.
So did the Vikings' run cost Frazier a job, or did it enhance his chances to take on a HC role for 2011? That's the thought experiment right now. We can take the ******** and Seahawks out, mainly because it seems as though they had their next HC mentally hired before firing the incumbent. As for Buffalo -- and the lingering Oakland possibility -- the belief is that an offensive guru was/is the right way to go given the team's needs.
By shutting down the Cowboys in the Divisional round of the playoffs, and sort of containing the Saints in the NFC Championship, Frazier displayed the acumen that teams will examine in weighing his candidacy for openings next offseason. Of course, he'll have stiff competition from the "big fish": there are whispers that both Jon Gruden and Bill Cowher are itching to get back onto the sidelines, and John Fox could be on the move as well.
http://[h3]Peppers or Patricia?[/h3]
9:11AM ET
[h5]New England Patriots [/h5]
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Sheer minutes after we all found out Dean Pees had been removed from his pod in New England, ESPN's Michael Smith took to Twitter and gave his best guess as to a replacement: "Will he be replaced by LB coach Matt Patricia?" Astute readers will remember that Patricia was included in Seth Wickersham's story in ESPN the Magazine discussing the high expectations placed on the branches of Bill Belichick's coaching tree. Wickersham singled Patricia out as one of the next disciples likely to work his way up through the system to a head-coaching gig. Perhaps the D-coordinator job with the Pats will be the next step.
But Pepper Johnson -- former standout LB for the New York Giants and currently the Pats defensive line coach -- is also in the mix. Johnson has instituted a feeling of great expectations for his charges, and it's got Vince Wilfork convinced that he'd do a fine job as DC:
[h5]Mike Reiss[/h5]
Pepper's got a fan in Vince
http://[h3]Trade value set for Boldin?[/h3]
9:03AM ET
[h5]Anquan Boldin | Cardinals | Interested: Lions?, Patriots?, Buccaneers?, Jaguars?, Panthers?, Dolphins?, Chiefs?, Ravens? [/h5]
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[h5]WRs possibly on the move[/h5]
Almost a month ago, we got a hint on "Sunday NFL Countdown" from NFL Insider Adam Schefter who said "this is the year http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=4512http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=4512Anquan Boldin gets traded," and this re-booted all the speculation that had been in long-term storage. During a spot on ESPNEWS a week ago, ESPN's Michael Smith noted that the "price tag is probably lower" for Boldin, with the emergence of Steve Breaston and Early Doucet, coupled with Boldin's age and proneness to injury.
So what is that price tag? Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic writes that the Cardinals will approach this offseason with more realistic demands: "Last spring, the best offer the team said it received was a third-round pick and a player. My hunch is the Cardinals would consider that offer more seriously this season."
As for where he could be going if traded, some WR-needy teams that would make sense from a speculative standpoint are the Bucs, Chiefs, Dolphins, Jags, Lions, Patriots, Panthers and Ravens.
[h5]Mike Sando[/h5]
Clock ticking on Boldin's trade value
http://[h3]Vick for Vikes?[/h3]
8:57AM ET
[h5]Michael Vick | Eagles | Interested: Vikings?, Cardinals?, Bills?, Panthers?, Rams?, Raiders? [/h5]
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We already know the Raiders could be interested in http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=2549http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=2549http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=2549Michael Vick by way of the "Al Davis could do anything and it wouldn't surprise us" argument, plus the fact that the alternative is http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10446http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10446http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10446http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10446JaMarcus Russell. The Rams also have been brought up, based on their need at QB, and the fact that Rams GM Billy Devaney was with the Falcons when Vick played in Atlanta and visited Vick in prison. NFL analyst Jimmy Johnson said that the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=carhttp://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=carhttp://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=carCarolina Panthers should also take a look. This past week, the Bills have also been floated as a possibility based on Chan Gailey's offensive philosophy and the team's desperate need for a QB.
With the Vikings' elimination from playoff contention, the Brett Favre watch begins anew. If Favre does retire (for good), then Minnesota might be looking to upgrade from Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels. Speculation has also built that the Vikes might make a run at Vick's teammate, Donovan McNabb.
But what about the Cards? If http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=1682Kurt Warner hangs it up, the team might want some options in case http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9596Matt Leinart doesn't work out. Here's NFC West blogger Mike Sando addressing that possibility:
[h5]Mike Sando[/h5]
Vick vs. Leinart would be captivating
http://[h3]Shockey's Super status[/h3]
8:47AM ET
[h5]Jeremy Shockey | Saints [/h5]
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It could be deja vu all over again for tight end Jeremy Shockey. As the New York Giants tore through the competition on the way to a Super Bowl victory two seasons ago, Shockey was on the sidelines with an injury. While his current injury hasn't forced him out entirely, he was a non-factor in Sunday's win against the Minnesota Vikings, catching just one pass for nine yards.
For his part, he does seem disappointed that he can't help more, as he tweeted on Sunday night: "playing on 1 leg sux... ill get beter soon... wish i could help our team more but ill be great in 2wks."
Shockey's health could be a key turning point for the Super Bowl, as the Colts have been susceptible to opposing TEs at times this season. Of course, it's not like Drew Brees won't have any other options to throw to in his place.
[/h3][h3]Cromartie on the block?[/h3]
12:06PM ET
[h5]Antonio Cromartie | Chargers | Interested: Ravens?, Browns?, Falcons?, Lions?, Vikings?, Eagles?, Steelers? [/h5]
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Amongst a laundry list of players on whom decisions must be made this offseason by http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=sdgSan Diego Chargers GM A.J. Smith, according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, one name sticks out: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9605Antonio Cromartie.
Cromartie has one year left on his deal, and is coming off "his best all-around season," per Acee. Why trade him, then? The team has some major financial issues with other spots on the roster that don't have replacements waiting in the wings, and it's believed that http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=11261Antoine Cason might be ready to step up his role. Last week, we speculated that some teams that might be interested in Cromartie would include the Vikings, Lions, Eagles, Falcons and Steelers.
In addition to those, you can add the Ravens and Browns as speculative possibilities, per AFC North blogger James Walker:
[h5]James Walker[/h5]
Cro could be difference-maker
http://[h3]Childress-McNabb reunion?[/h3]
12:05PM ET
[h5]Donovan McNabb | Eagles | Interested: Cardinals?, 49ers?, Rams?, Panthers?, Jaguars?, Bills?, ********?, Vikings?, Browns? [/h5]
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[h5]Hypothetical destinations for No. 5[/h5]
- If Kurt Warner retires, there is a football home where McNabb makes his offseason home in Arizona. Reports say that the Cards' WRs don't have faith in Matt Leinart.
- The Bills could use a veteran passer while they draft and develop their next franchise gunslinger. Same goes for the Rams (who might actually want Donovan's teammate, Mr. Vick).
- http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8440http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8440http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8440Jason Campbell might be back in D.C., but if not, it's a similar situation to Buffalo: The ******** need a veteran as a stopgap while they develop the future franchise QB.
- The Browns have two unstable QBs, and their new GM was in Philly for most of McNabb's career.
- The Jaguars and Panthers both have some pieces in place but could use an upgrade at QB.
Have we seen the last game for http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=1753http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=1753Donovan McNabb in Philly? Unlike teammate -- and fellow Pro Bowl sub -- Quintin Mikell, McNabb will not be available to the press on Monday following his promotion to the Pro Bowl, which makes you wonder ...
If he is done with the Eagles, it could dovetail nicely with Brett Favre's last game in Minnesota, in that Vikings head coach Brad Childress -- who coached McNabb for seven years -- might be in the market for a veteran replacement, given the nausea-inducing alternatives (Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels). We think Vikes fans would take a little of McNabb's Willie Beamen impression over those two 10 times out of 10.
In addition to the Vikes, what about the 49ers? Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News wrote last week that it would make sense, with the Niners sending a second-round pick in return. We're not so sure it makes sense for the Niners; in addition to destroying Alex Smith's newly found confidence, it'd also more than likely involve an installation of the West Coast offense, yet another scheme overhaul.
NFL Insider Adam Schefter emailed in Monday morning with some insight as to why the Vikings are a particularly intriguing choice:
Connections aplenty for Donovan in Minny
http://[h3]Jones on the move for 2010?[/h3]
11:59AM ET
[h5]Thomas Jones | Jets | Interested: Chargers?, Texans? [/h5]
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[h5]Jones in his 30s[/h5]
- 2008 (30 years old): 290 carries, 1,312 yards, 13 TD. 36 receptions, 207 yards, 2 TD.
- 2009 (31 years old): 331 carries, 1,402 yards, 14 TD. 10 receptions, 58 yards.
Thomas Jones has been the exception to the age-old wisdom regarding NFL running backs in old age. Most backs start declining at age 30, but in his age 30 season (200
and age 31 season (2009), he's had arguably his greatest campaigns, as seen at right.So why in the world would the New York Jets be weighing whether or not to let him walk in free agency? That's the subject of debate right now, and in conversations with a few Jets beat writers this past weekend, Phillip B. Wilson of the Indianapolis Star has gotten the sense that the team might do just that. With the Jets' season-ending loss on Sunday, that feeling will only intensify. Jones is due a $3 million roster bonus on March 1, and rookie Shonn Greene answered the call nicely down the stretch of the regular season and in the playoffs.
Additionally, the Jets should also have Leon Washington back next season, giving them a shifty back to pair with Greene. If Jones is not retained, we could see him getting some interest from the Chargers and Texans, both of whom will need a between-the-tackles back for 2010.
http://[h3]Marinelli back in the mix for DC?[/h3]
10:49AM ET
[h5]Rod Marinelli | Lions [/h5]
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When Perry Fewell accepted the DC job with the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=nygNew York Giants, the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=chiChicago Bears lost what was believed to be their top option at the same post. Lovie Smith will not be running the show on D, and the initial thinking was that defensive line coach Rod Marinelli would not be promoted.
But Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune provides an update on the Bears' search for a defensive coordinator on Monday, and he notes that it's still possible the team looks to promote Marinelli to run the D.
If they don't, who does that leave? A couple weeks back, the Tribune noted that ESPN analyst Herm Edwards, former Jets and Chiefs head coach, could be an option. The league's No. 23 run defense in 2009? WE CAN BUILD ON THIS!
Two other names could be in play per Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times -- Vikings LB coach Fred Pagac and Colts DB coach Alan Williams -- and with the Vikes eliminated on Sunday, perhaps Pagac will get a call.
http://[h3]Braylon's big day ups value?[/h3]
10:39AM ET
[h5]Braylon Edwards | Jets | Interested: Jets? [/h5]
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We're not sure what value the open market would bear for New York Jets wideout (and restricted free agent) Braylon Edwards, in spite of his draft pedigree and massive game (including an 80-yard TD) in the AFC Championship. But maybe he won't have to worry about his market value, after all. Bob Glauber of Newsday tweeted last Wednesday morning that the Jets are going to tender Edwards at a level that would force other teams to give up a first- and third-round pick in order to sign him. Would any other team give up that much? We have our doubts.
Asked about the report that he'd be around for another season with the Jets, Edwards said (per The Associated Press), "I hadn't heard anything about it, but if that's something they're definitely doing, I'm excited."
So hang on to those No. 17 Jets jerseys, folks, they're good for at least one more season. While we're doling out advice to Gang Green Nation, the Jets' faithful can now forget about the team trading for http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9705Brandon Marshall or http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=4512Anquan Boldin. In a prior tweet, Glauber noted that if the team kept Braylon, it would not go after the big-fish WRs that are apparently on the trade block.
Keeping Braylon the smart move
http://[h3]Favre re-revisiting retirement?[/h3]
10:36AM ET
[h5]Brett Favre | Vikings [/h5]
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We're probably not going to have a real answer until the 2010 regular season starts and Mr. Favre is (or isn't) in uniform and on the field somewhere, but the QB was asked about retirement during this postseason run. Favre told ESPN's Ed Werder "If you win, you go on. If you lose, you're done, and for me, that could very well be my last game."
Now that the Vikings are out, the real self-reflection comes for No. 4. Favre mentioned in the post-game news conference that he's "going to go home a couple days, and talk it over with the family," but did insinuate that his decision process wouldn't take as long as it did last offseason. Favre also told Werder after the game that it was "highly unlikely" that he'd play again, per NFL Insider Adam Schefter on Twitter.
Already sick of Favre and the R-word?
http://[h3]Devin moving up depth chart?[/h3]
9:54AM ET
[h5]Devin Aromashodu | Bears [/h5]
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Looking ahead to 2010, it appears as though http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9819Devin Aromashodu should be in the mix for a starting job, given head coach Lovie Smith's comments to the Chicago Sun-Times as the season wound down. We're not sure if the development of http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9643Devin Hester, http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=12678Johnny Knox and Aromashodu will preclude the Bears from acquiring another WR this offseason via free agency or the draft, but this could be a solid unit by the time next season rolls around.
One man who is not surprised by Aromashodu's success down the stretch is Colts WR Reggie Wayne. Wayne mentored Aromashodu when the latter was on the practice squad for the Colts' last Super Bowl team, and the elder maintains a relationship. "I'm just happy for him to be able to get somewhere and show what he is able to do. Hopefully, they stick with him."
Prior to the season finale, Aaron Schatz of the Football Outsiders emailed in wondering why it's taken Aromashodu so long to get his chance:
Cutler's favorite makes his mark
http://[h3]New Marshall scenarios?[/h3]
9:44AM ET
[h5]Brandon Marshall | Broncos | Interested: Dolphins?, Rams?, Cardinals?, Cowboys?, Patriots?, Bengals?, Seahawks?, ********?, Ravens? [/h5]
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[h5]Destinations for Brandon[/h5]
- The first speculation was that Marshall would be headed to the Seahawks or the ********, via two of our NFL Nation bloggers.
- Cincinnati has the need for a second WR to go along with Chad Ochocinco, but we're not sure the Bengals would want another head case.
- The Cowboys need a legitimate No. 1 WR and Jerry Jones would have no problem forking out cash for a new deal to Marshall.
- What about the Pats? Randy Moss isn't getting any younger, and Wes Welker might be a shell of his former self after shredding his knee.
There's been ongoing speculation that http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9705http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9705Brandon Marshall has played his last snap for the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=denhttp://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=denDenver Broncos. We've also been hearing buzz that he could be headed to a few different locales.
While those past picks are summarized at right, Dave Krieger of the Denver Post speculated on some new spots on Sunday. He sends Marshall to the Ravens for their first-rounder (No. 25 overall), Marshall plus the Broncos' first-rounder to St. Louis for the No. 1 overall pick, Marshall to the Dolphins for Ted Ginn Jr. and Miami's second-rounder (No. 43 overall) and Marshall to Arizona for Anquan Boldin, straight up. How neatly our rumor mill would dovetail with that last one, eh?
While all of these have varying degrees of likelihood, there's really no hope that Marshall stays in Denver:
Return package could be huge for Brandon
http://[h3]Rams eyeing WRs?[/h3]
9:42AM ET
[h5]St. Louis Rams [/h5]
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There's a lot of room for improvement from 1-15, but it's important to have a distinct strategy to realize that improvement. So it is with the St. Louis Rams, whose GM Billy Devaney recent told StLouisRams.com that "We need playmakers."
OK, that seems a little vague. He clarified: "guys that can score touchdowns from way out, guys that can sack the quarterback, make a difference, impact a game. I think that's what we have to focus on right now, guys that are game changers on both sides of the ball." Still a little wiggle room there, but with their team's needs in mind, we can formulate who they'll go after this offseason.
QB is an obvious answer, and they've been linked to Michael Vick. As for sacking opposing QBs, all signs still point to them drafting Ndamukong Suh first overall. They already have Steven Jackson at RB, but WR could be the area upon which they'll focus. Don't be surprised if the Rams trade back into the first round if they see someone they like falling, or make a play for one of the veterans on the trade block: Brandon Marshall or Anquan Boldin, in particular.
http://[h3]Frazier's prospects increase?[/h3]
9:30AM ET
[h5]Leslie Frazier [/h5]
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[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/nfl.gif[/img]
From what we know now, it would appear that Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier has again missed the chance to advance his career to the head coach level. There were scant opportunities -- only the ********, Seahawks and Bills actually made a change -- and Frazier was still involved in the playoffs when those hires were made.
So did the Vikings' run cost Frazier a job, or did it enhance his chances to take on a HC role for 2011? That's the thought experiment right now. We can take the ******** and Seahawks out, mainly because it seems as though they had their next HC mentally hired before firing the incumbent. As for Buffalo -- and the lingering Oakland possibility -- the belief is that an offensive guru was/is the right way to go given the team's needs.
By shutting down the Cowboys in the Divisional round of the playoffs, and sort of containing the Saints in the NFC Championship, Frazier displayed the acumen that teams will examine in weighing his candidacy for openings next offseason. Of course, he'll have stiff competition from the "big fish": there are whispers that both Jon Gruden and Bill Cowher are itching to get back onto the sidelines, and John Fox could be on the move as well.
http://[h3]Peppers or Patricia?[/h3]
9:11AM ET
[h5]New England Patriots [/h5]
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Sheer minutes after we all found out Dean Pees had been removed from his pod in New England, ESPN's Michael Smith took to Twitter and gave his best guess as to a replacement: "Will he be replaced by LB coach Matt Patricia?" Astute readers will remember that Patricia was included in Seth Wickersham's story in ESPN the Magazine discussing the high expectations placed on the branches of Bill Belichick's coaching tree. Wickersham singled Patricia out as one of the next disciples likely to work his way up through the system to a head-coaching gig. Perhaps the D-coordinator job with the Pats will be the next step.
But Pepper Johnson -- former standout LB for the New York Giants and currently the Pats defensive line coach -- is also in the mix. Johnson has instituted a feeling of great expectations for his charges, and it's got Vince Wilfork convinced that he'd do a fine job as DC:
Pepper's got a fan in Vince
http://[h3]Trade value set for Boldin?[/h3]
9:03AM ET
[h5]Anquan Boldin | Cardinals | Interested: Lions?, Patriots?, Buccaneers?, Jaguars?, Panthers?, Dolphins?, Chiefs?, Ravens? [/h5]
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[h5]WRs possibly on the move[/h5]
- http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9705Brandon Marshall, Broncos. Marshall's off-field incidents gave way to a solid season -- 101 catches for 1,120 yards and 10 TDs -- but he was deactivated for the final game of the season, and the Denver Post has reported the team will try to trade him in March.
- Boldin. In a tradition unlike any ... well, actually, a tradition like many others, Boldin seems to hold out every offseason, displeased with his contract. The Cards seem to be finished with the perennial pouting.
- http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=3591Antonio Bryant, http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8418Braylon Edwards, http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=1056Terrell Owens and http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=8475Vincent Jackson -- amongst others -- could all hit free agency.
Almost a month ago, we got a hint on "Sunday NFL Countdown" from NFL Insider Adam Schefter who said "this is the year http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=4512http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=4512Anquan Boldin gets traded," and this re-booted all the speculation that had been in long-term storage. During a spot on ESPNEWS a week ago, ESPN's Michael Smith noted that the "price tag is probably lower" for Boldin, with the emergence of Steve Breaston and Early Doucet, coupled with Boldin's age and proneness to injury.
So what is that price tag? Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic writes that the Cardinals will approach this offseason with more realistic demands: "Last spring, the best offer the team said it received was a third-round pick and a player. My hunch is the Cardinals would consider that offer more seriously this season."
As for where he could be going if traded, some WR-needy teams that would make sense from a speculative standpoint are the Bucs, Chiefs, Dolphins, Jags, Lions, Patriots, Panthers and Ravens.
Clock ticking on Boldin's trade value
http://[h3]Vick for Vikes?[/h3]
8:57AM ET
[h5]Michael Vick | Eagles | Interested: Vikings?, Cardinals?, Bills?, Panthers?, Rams?, Raiders? [/h5]
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We already know the Raiders could be interested in http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=2549http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=2549http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=2549Michael Vick by way of the "Al Davis could do anything and it wouldn't surprise us" argument, plus the fact that the alternative is http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10446http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10446http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10446http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=10446JaMarcus Russell. The Rams also have been brought up, based on their need at QB, and the fact that Rams GM Billy Devaney was with the Falcons when Vick played in Atlanta and visited Vick in prison. NFL analyst Jimmy Johnson said that the http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=carhttp://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=carhttp://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=carCarolina Panthers should also take a look. This past week, the Bills have also been floated as a possibility based on Chan Gailey's offensive philosophy and the team's desperate need for a QB.
With the Vikings' elimination from playoff contention, the Brett Favre watch begins anew. If Favre does retire (for good), then Minnesota might be looking to upgrade from Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels. Speculation has also built that the Vikes might make a run at Vick's teammate, Donovan McNabb.
But what about the Cards? If http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=1682Kurt Warner hangs it up, the team might want some options in case http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=9596Matt Leinart doesn't work out. Here's NFC West blogger Mike Sando addressing that possibility:
Vick vs. Leinart would be captivating
http://[h3]Shockey's Super status[/h3]
8:47AM ET
[h5]Jeremy Shockey | Saints [/h5]
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It could be deja vu all over again for tight end Jeremy Shockey. As the New York Giants tore through the competition on the way to a Super Bowl victory two seasons ago, Shockey was on the sidelines with an injury. While his current injury hasn't forced him out entirely, he was a non-factor in Sunday's win against the Minnesota Vikings, catching just one pass for nine yards.
For his part, he does seem disappointed that he can't help more, as he tweeted on Sunday night: "playing on 1 leg sux... ill get beter soon... wish i could help our team more but ill be great in 2wks."
Shockey's health could be a key turning point for the Super Bowl, as the Colts have been susceptible to opposing TEs at times this season. Of course, it's not like Drew Brees won't have any other options to throw to in his place.
- Jun 30, 2003
- 9,264
- 58
lol @ cromartie on the block possibly
- Jan 20, 2006
- 17,904
- 800
What are the Bears doing???
Still don't have an OC yet
Still don't have an OC yet
- Mar 26, 2009
- 7,683
- 380
Ted "where's the sidelines?" Ginn Jr + 2nd rd pick for Marshall ? Do it Bill!!!
