Pennington will not be traded

Pennington will not be traded

Chad Pennington is not going anywhere this season. The New York�Jets will not trade him the New York Daily News reported.

Even though he has a chance to win back the job he lost to Kellen Clemens last season, a source told the Daily News Sunday that at the scouting combine in Indianapolis last month, Pennington's agent and Tannenbaum, the Jets' GM, had one conversation about whether the Jets would trade him. Tannenbaum's answer: No.

Pennington wants to start, and Tannenbaum and agent Tom Condon discussed whether the Jets intended to provide him with an opportunity elsewhere. No demands were made by Pennington.

Cowboys and Titans can't agree on price for Pacman
Sooner or later, Pacman Jones is going to be a Cowboy. The Cowboys want him, no one else does, and there's no way the Titans will allow him to infect their roster for another whole season.

And despite the fact that the Cowboys are the lone Pacman suitor, the Titans keep jacking up the price. From ESPN:

A source close to the negotiations told ESPN's Ed Werder on Sunday night that trade talks between the Cowboys and Titans have stalled over the issue of compensation.

The Titans are seeking a fourth-round pick in this year's draft and another selection next year, according to the source. The Cowboys are so far unwilling to provide either, believing they are the only team pursuing Jones, who remains suspended for violations of the personal-conduct policy.

The Titans have been steadfast in their position, apparently convinced that Jones' trade value will not worsen.

The Titans believe that Pacman's trade value will not worsen? I guess they haven't been paying a lot of attention to the career of Pacman Jones. Every time he gets horny, he does something to lower his trade value.

I guess both teams have a point. The Titans are giving up a young elite-level talent, so they'd like something decent in the way of compensation. And the Cowboys are trading for someone who isn't currently eligible to play, and may never be, depending on Roger Goodell's mood and Pacman's willingness to stay away from clear heels.

Still, I'm confident that they'll eventually find some middle ground and work this out.

Eagles expected to work on trade for Sheppard

It appears one of the objectives for the Philadelphia Eagles this week is to gauge the interest in former All-Pro cornerback Lito Sheppard according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.��Despite some sentiment that the Eagles would be better served by keeping Sheppard and moving Sheldon Brown to safety, the trade scenario remains far more likely.

Trade talks concerning Sheppard figure to pick up this week at the owners' meetings, which take place today through Wednesday in West Palm Beach, Fla. A team source said the Eagles already have received some significant offers for the cornerback and will continue to listen. A deal is likely to get done before the start of the April 26 draft. The Eagles have been told by several teams that they will make offers after they finalize their draft boards. With the draft less than a month away, those offers should be coming soon.

The Dallas Morning News speculated a potential landing spot for Sheppard might be Cincinnati where the Bengals are dealing with an unhappy Chad Johnson.

Marinelli outlines Detroit's draft plan

Detroit Lions coach Rod Marinelli says he is determined to do a better job in the draft, and his plan seems pretty clear the Detroit Free Press reported.

Start researching earlier. Spend more time with prospects. Address four major needs — defensive end, linebacker, offensive tackle and running back. Take players the Lions really like, even if others think they aren't worth the pick.

Marinelli thinks the Lions have done well in the first two rounds since he arrived in Detroit in 2006. But he knows they must improve overall.

Mangini, Tannenbaum will return in 2009 regardless of record

With lots of speculation around the NFL that GM Mike Tannenbaum and head coach Eric Mangini must win now to keep their jobs with the New York Jets after going 4-12 last year, owner Woody Johnson attempted to put an end to that talk according to the New York Daily News.

No matter what happens this season, neither Mangini nor Tannenbaum will be fired, Johnson said. He told The News that Tannenbaum and Mangini "absolutely" will be back in 2009 regardless of the Jets' record this season. "I really think it takes time to build," Johnson said. "You can't do it in one season."

In a wild spending spree, the Jets handed out $63 million in guaranteed money in the free agent/trading market. But Johnson was emphatic that Mangini and Tannenbaum were his guys and were under no greater pressure because of their decision to acquire Alan Faneca, Calvin Pace, Kris Jenkins and Damien Woody.

Trade talks for Pacman Jones hit snag

Pacman Jones wants to go to Dallas, and the Cowboys apparently want him. How much they'll give up to get him is a different story.

A source close to the negotiations told ESPN Sunday night that trade talks between the Cowboys and Titans have stalled over the issue of compensation.

The Titans are seeking a fourth-round pick in this month's NFL draft and another selection next year, according to the source. The Cowboys are so far unwilling to provide either, believing they are the only team pursuing Jones, who remains suspended for violations of the personal-conduct policy. The Titans have been steadfast in their position, apparently convinced that Jones' trade value will not worsen.

New England interested in McFadden?

The New England Patriots have considerable talent and depth at running back, yet that isn't stopping team officials from flying Darren McFadden up to Foxborough for a visit the Boston Globe reported.

NFL teams are allowed to host up to 30 out-of-town prospects before the draft, and the Patriots' visit with the Arkansas back — scheduled for April 10-11 - should generate buzz relating to New England having the seventh overall draft choice.

Is there genuine interest in McFadden? Might it be a smoke screen? Or is it just due diligence as part of the scouting process? As most of the heaviest hitters arrived in South Florida yesterday for the league's annual meeting, McFadden — who rushed for 1,830 yards and totaled 16 touchdowns last season — drew raves among some personnel executives. Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome called him "a great player."

Speculation growing Umenyiora will hold out
Osi Umenyiora will be attending the New York Giants' offseason program, but there is growing speculation he will�holdout from training camp this summer if he doesn't get a new contract according to the New York Daily News. In fact, someone who talked to him recently told The News: "I guarantee you he's not coming to camp."

This is all a lot of speculation, and camp is still four months away, but this is all important because Umenyiora has been asked about a potential holdout several times in the last few months and has yet to deny the possibility. In fact, on several occassions he's appeared to hint that it might happen.

This will be very interesting to watch over the next few months because Umenyiora is just two years and three months removed from signing a six-year, $41 million contract extension that included $15 million in guarantees and extended his deal through 2012. That contract called for him to make $21 million in the first three years of the extension. That's a healthy average of $7 million per year. It's hard�to imagine the Giants renegotiating a contract that still has five years remaining on it. It's also hard to see them doing it while they're considering raises for Michael Strahan and Plaxico Burress, and pondering how much they'll have to pay Chris Snee to keep him off the free-agent market.

Matt Leinart is not struggling to meet women




If you're a Cardinals fan, and you were concerned that Matt Leinart wasn't having enough fun this offseason, please let these pictures assuage some of your fears.

That's Matt Leinart above, in a hot tub featuring a few wandering hands, and then being gracious enough to hold up a beer bong for a young lady. What a gentleman. I assume it's apple juice in there, because TheDirty.com, from whence these pictures came, says that some of these girls might not be 21.

Gracias, Deadspin.

Dallas may put 'no strip club clause' into Pacman contract

Dallas may put 'no strip club clause' into Pacman contract
According to New York Daily News columnist Gary Myers if the Dallas Cowboys put a "no strip club" clause in Pacman Jones' contract and he somehow follows it, then a trade to Dallas, which looks like it's going to happen any day, could possibly work. Jones gets himself in the most trouble at strip clubs and in the offseason.

The only reason for Goodell to reinstate Jones now rather than wait until right before training camp is so he can get into a structured environment.

Jerry Jones passed on Randy Moss in the 1998 draft because he was trying to clean up the Cowboys' image tarnished by a team running wild. Now he already has Tank Johnson and is on the verge of bringing in Pacman.

Belichick will be focus at NFL meetings
So many people will be looking at Patriots coach and former genius Bill Belichick this week that he may feel like they are spying on him, of all the crazy things according to the New York Daily News.

I'm surprised Belichick will be at the NFL meetings, which open Sunday in Palm Beach, Fla., considering the SpyGate scandal just won't go away and so much of the discussion this week — in front of Belichick — is going to focus on it.

Roger Goodell has come up with some new policies for the owners to discuss to crack down on cheating. At least give Belichick credit for showing up for what is going to be an uncomfortable four days for him among the coaches, general managers and owners, some of whom have been critical of him.

Naming rights for Dallas Cowboys stadium could set record
The Dallas Cowboys and owner Jerry Jones may have a title before they even kick off in their new stadium — the holder of the biggest naming rights deal in sports history.

The current top spots go to the Barclays Center, future home to the NBA's New Jersey Nets, and Citi Field, where Major League Baseball's New York Mets will play in 2009, each pulling in 20-year, $400 million contracts.

"I would think the Cowboys would expect at minimum what's been done in New York and look to exceed it," said Jim Biegalski, who specializes in naming rights for Millsport, a Dallas-based sports marketing firm.

NFL Draft: All-Sleeper Defensive Team

NFL Draft: All-Sleeper Defensive Team
Who are the little-known defenders who'll attract interest in the NFL draft? Scout.com provides an All-Sleeper Defensive Team.

Jets guarantee final two years of Coles' contract
The New York Jets yesterday guaranteed the final two years and $11 million of wide receiver Laveranues Coles' contract — averting a potential offseason headache.

NFL owners consider postseason rule changes

NFL owners consider postseason rule changes
The Giants had to hit the road. But a new rule could make it easier for playoff teams that don't win their division, Alex Marvez says.

Giants, 'Skins to play in Thursday season opener
The NFL's Thursday night season opener will match the Super Bowl-champion New York Giants and the Washington Redskins, with the game possibly starting an hour-and-a-half earlier to avoid clashing with the Republican National Convention. The game is now scheduled for 8:30 p.m. EDT on Sept. 4 - the concluding night of the Republican convention - and will be televised by NBC.

Seahawks sign veteran kicker Mare
The Seattle Seahawks signed kicker Olindo Mare, a free agent who was released by New Orleans in February. Mare is a 12-year NFL veteran and will be one option in Seattle's search for a replacement for Josh Brown, the kicker who left the Seahawks to sign with St. Louis on the first day of free agency.

The Seahawks sought to re-sign Brown, who won four games for them in 2006 with late field goals. Seattle's final offer didn't measure up to the Rams' five-year offer of $14.2 million, which included a $4 million signing bonus.

Mare's contract is for two years and totals $3.5 million, according to a report on the NFL's Web site. It's unknown what size signing bonus, if any, Mare received.

Oregon RB Stewart will visit with Cowboys
Oregon RB Jonathan Stewart is slated to come to Valley Ranch for one of the 30 pre-draft visits with out-of-area prospects allowed to the Dallas Cowboys, and every other team, something the burly back noted on Sirius NFL Radio today and we've confirmed since.

Stewart underwent turf toe surgery two weeks ago, a procedure that was supposed to sideline him for 4-6 months. People around the running back have told us since that he's fully expected to be recovered and ready to go before training camps kick off in July, which would put him at the more fortunate end of the aforementioned timetable.

Aside from the injury concern, Stewart is a truly elite prospect who was expected to tangle with Rashard Mendenhall for position behind Darren McFadden in the draft order at tailback.

Pacman cleared to seek trade, Dallas deal imminent?
Tennessee Titans coach Jeff Fisher said Thursday the team gave suspended cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones permission to seek a trade according to the Dallas Morning News. Meanwhile, the NFL Network is reporting a deal that would send Jones to the Dallas Cowboys is imminent and could be announced this weekend.

According to multiple sources, the Titans and Cowboys held talks about a trade for Jones last week. Jones has been suspended since April 2007 for violations of the NFL conduct policy.

NFL Network reported the Cowboys and Titans spent Thursday discussing the trade and should be able to work out a deal soon. The teams�are still a few rounds apart in discussing compensation�— the Titans have asked for a third-round pick and the Cowboys have offered a sixth-round pick — the deal could get done within the next couple of days.

Denver's Marshall says it's 'time to grow up'
Denver Broncos star wide receiver Brandon Marshall, who keeps finding his name in negative news reports, insisted Thursday he's really a good guy who just needs to grow up.

"It's time for me to grow up," he added. "From here on out, it's Brandon Marshall, clean-cut guy. Just trying to get my life together as far as accidents and DUIs."

Marshall said he was horsing around with his older brother, Fred, at a resort in Orlando, Fla., on Saturday when he tried to avoid a McDonald's fast-food bag and fell into a television set, cutting an artery, a vain, a nerve, two tendons and three muscles in his right arm. He's expected to need four months of recovery, a timeline that would make him available for the start of training camp in late July.

Romo-Simpson secretly get married?
Jessica Simpson's mother claims her daughter has secretly remarried. As Simpson and her mother Tina were leaving Chili's restaurant in Los Angeles Tuesday, Tina revealed that her 27-year-old daughter has secretly wed.

Asked if Simpson was planning to marry football star Tony Romo, whom she had been dating since last November, Tina laughed and responded to the inquiry, "Jessica is already married to Tony. What are you talking about?"

Simpson, who was previously married to singer Nick Lachey, giggled and told gossip Web site TMZ.com, "Well I guess if my mom said it, it must be true!"

Trufant, Seahawks agree, shed franchise tag for '08

Trufant, Seahawks agree, shed franchise tag for '08
Marcus Trufant and the Seahawks have agreed to a multiyear deal that will keep the Pro Bowl cornerback under contract with Seattle beyond 2008. A team spokesman said a news conference scheduled for Wednesday afternoon was to announce Trufant's new deal. The Seahawks had designated Trufant as their franchise player for this year and were mandated to offer him a one-year tender worth a guaranteed $9,465,000, the average of the top five salaries for cornerbacks in the league.

Small school NFL Draft prospect found dead
Heath Benedict, a two-time Little All-American offensive lineman from Newberry College in South Carolina, was found dead on a couch in his home. Jacksonville police said no foul play is suspected in the death of the 24-year-old Benedict, a 6-foot-6, 320-pound junior who had planned to enter the NFL draft. Benedict, who redshirted at Tennessee in 2002 before moving to Newberry, was a native of the Netherlands. He played high school football at the Peddie School in Hightstown, N.J.

Dorsey answers health questions at Pro Day
It wasn't the dominant workout some anticipated, but LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey remains in consideration for the No. 1 overall pick after the Tigers' Pro Day on Wednesday. He participated in the full workout, and LSU team doctors tried to quell concerns regarding and old injury and a reported recent surgery.

McFarland fails physical, Steelers withdraw offer

McFarland fails physical, Steelers withdraw offer
The Pittsburgh Steelers appeared set to sign free-agent defensive lineman Anthony McFarland on Tuesday night. But after working him out Wednesday morning, they withdrew their offer according to the Beaver County Times.

A Steelers spokesman said late Wednesday afternoon that no deal has been struck with McFarland.

Apparently, McFarland flunked his physical. A 10-year veteran with 85 career starts, McFarland missed last season with a knee injury. McFarland played for Tampa Bay and Indianapolis.

Trufant, Seahawks agree, shed franchise tag for '08
Marcus Trufant and the Seahawks have agreed to a multiyear deal that will keep the Pro Bowl cornerback under contract with Seattle beyond 2008. A team spokesman said a news conference scheduled for Wednesday afternoon was to announce Trufant's new deal. The Seahawks had designated Trufant as their franchise player for this year and were mandated to offer him a one-year tender worth a guaranteed $9,465,000, the average of the top five salaries for cornerbacks in the league.

Dorsey answers health questions at Pro Day
It wasn't the dominant workout some anticipated, but LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey remains in consideration for the No. 1 overall pick after the Tigers' Pro Day on Wednesday. He participated in the full workout, and LSU team doctors tried to quell concerns regarding and old injury and a reported recent surgery.

Panthers sign veteran guard Toniu Fonoti
The Carolina Panthers have signed free-agent guard Toniu Fonoti, a former second-round draft choice who has been in and out of the league in recent seasons because of weight problems.

The Panthers hope Fonoti (6-foot-4, 350 pounds) can compete for playing time at guard.

San Diego selected him in the 2002 draft. He started 14 games for the Chargers as a rookie, then spent the next season on injured reserve. In 2004, he started 16 games. Sports Illustrated named him first team All-Pro. After another injury and with his weight reportedly up to about 390 pounds, the Chargers traded him to Minnesota in 2005. He didn't last with the Vikings. Atlanta signed him last March, but released him during training camp.

Bears meet McFadden, Jones; Benson a question mark?

Bears meet McFadden, Jones; Benson a question mark?

The Chicago Bears coaching staff�had lunch with Arkansas running backs Darren McFadden and Felix Jones on Monday, a source told the Sun-Times. Smith and Southwest area scout Chris Ballard will attend the Razorbacks pro day today, an intriguing development for a franchise many figure to be in pursuit of an offensive tackle with the 14th pick of the first round.

If the Bears' interest in either one or both is genuine, it could signal Benson's rehabilitation from a fractured left ankle is behind and the possibility would then exist he will be phased out of the team's plans.

Benson had the walking cast he was in removed Dec. 31, and general manager Jerry Angelo said following the season he still believed the fourth pick from the 2005 draft could be a featured back. But actions speak louder than words, and if the Bears were to maneuver up in the first round of the draft to grab McFadden, or down to snare Jones, it would likely signal the end of the road for Benson.

Raiders interested in signing Dilfer?

Raiders interested in signing Dilfer?

The Oakland Raiders may not be finished re-working their roster quite yet. According to the Fresno Bee, the Raiders have interested in signing veteran quarterback Trent Dilfer.

Dilfer was released earlier this year by the San Francisco 49ers. The 36-year-old Dilfer started six games for the 49ers last season, passing for 1,166 yards with seven touchdowns, 12 interceptions and a 55.1 passer rating before being lost for the season with a concussion.

If he were to sign with Oakland, Dilfer would serve as a backup and mentor to JaMarcus Russell, who is expected to become the starter in 2008 after being the first pick in the 2007 NFL draft. The Raiders also have Andrew Walter on the roster, and it is possible that Daunte Culpepper will re-sign with Oakland.

Ex-Jag QB Quinn Gray to sign with Texans
Barring unforeseen complications, former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Quinn Gray will sign a one-year deal for $645,000 with the Houston Texans, giving them three veterans at the most important position on the team according to the Houston Chronicle.

Coach Rick Smith said last week the Texans prefer to have three veteran quarterbacks on the roster when the regular season begins.

Gray helps the Texans in two ways. First, if starter Matt Schaub is injured again and Sage Rosenfels is elevated, Gray becomes the experienced backup. Second, if they're offered a second-round pick for Rosenfels, having Gray behind Schaub would make it easier to make the trade.

Pats meet with University of San Diego QB Johnson
Developing young quarterbacks is generally considered good business, and if the Patriots draft a signal-caller this year, one player to keep an eye on is San Diego's Josh Johnson according to the Boston Globe.

The Patriots recently sent a high-ranking member of their coaching staff to meet with Johnson for a private workout. Scouts often say that Division I-AA players must dominate if they are to receive serious NFL consideration, and Johnson did that at the University of San Diego.

As part of their draft preparation, the Patriots hold private workouts for several prospects. In most cases, they most accurately represent that the team is seeking more information before giving the player a final ranking on the draft board.

Raiders interested in signing Dilfer?

Raiders interested in signing Dilfer?

The Oakland Raiders may not be finished re-working their roster quite yet. According to the Fresno Bee, the Raiders have interested in signing veteran quarterback Trent Dilfer.

Dilfer was released earlier this year by the San Francisco 49ers. The 36-year-old Dilfer started six games for the 49ers last season, passing for 1,166 yards with seven touchdowns, 12 interceptions and a 55.1 passer rating before being lost for the season with a concussion.

If he were to sign with Oakland, Dilfer would serve as a backup and mentor to JaMarcus Russell, who is expected to become the starter in 2008 after being the first pick in the 2007 NFL draft. The Raiders also have Andrew Walter on the roster, and it is possible that Daunte Culpepper will re-sign with Oakland.

Ex-Jag QB Quinn Gray to sign with Texans
Barring unforeseen complications, former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Quinn Gray will sign a one-year deal for $645,000 with the Houston Texans, giving them three veterans at the most important position on the team according to the Houston Chronicle.

Coach Rick Smith said last week the Texans prefer to have three veteran quarterbacks on the roster when the regular season begins.

Gray helps the Texans in two ways. First, if starter Matt Schaub is injured again and Sage Rosenfels is elevated, Gray becomes the experienced backup. Second, if they're offered a second-round pick for Rosenfels, having Gray behind Schaub would make it easier to make the trade.

For Bengals, money speaks louder than Chad Johnson

For Bengals, money speaks louder than Chad Johnson

Cincinnati Bengals officials insist they aren't going to budge, even as chatty receiver Chad Johnson continues to make noise by saying he wants to play elsewhere the Boston Globe reported.

Johnson most recently said he doesn't plan to show up for the Bengals' offseason program, which starts Monday.

Besides Johnson's vital presence in the offense, the Bengals aren't willing to move him because of the economic considerations. After paying him approximately $16 million over the last two seasons, the Bengals would take an $8 million salary cap hit by trading Johnson before June 1. While the Bengals aren't always known for their business acumen, even they can figure this one out.

If Miami keeps No.1 pick, Long could be the choice
If the Miami Dolphins and Bill Parcells stays put at No. 1, Virginia DE Chris Long, the son of Hall of Famer Howie Long, is likely to be his pick unless Parcells determines before the April 26 draft that quarterback John Beck, the second-round pick of the previous regime, has no chance to be a player. Then he would take Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan. Veteran Josh McCown, recently signed as a free agent, is a classic Parcells hold-the-fort guy according to the New York Daily News.

Parcells left the impression he would love to trade down a few times and turn that one pick into five of the 25 to 30 new players he anticipates being on the 1-15 team he is trying to resurrect. And that would prevent Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga and his new partner Stephen Ross from signing off on the $30 million guaranteed that will go to the No. 1 pick. That makes it much harder to deal out of the spot than 10 years ago.

"I'm not sure anybody is interested in the pick," Parcells said. "The economics of the pick are a little more devastating if it doesn't work out. You have to have some willing partners of the trade-down thing. We're in position where we are assuming we are going to make the pick."

Could Holmgren get a Parcells-like job in San Francisco?

Mike Holmgren didn't even want to talk about a new contract to coach the Seattle Seahawks and will be a lame duck this season before he is replaced by Jim Mora in 2009 the New York Daily News reported.

Is he done with the NFL? One source says, "He's enamored with what Parcells is doing in Miami. I can see San Francisco getting to that point."

If Mike Nolan doesn't win this year, he will get fired. He already lost his GM responsibilities. The next step for the Niners is starting over, and although Holmgren didn't distinguish himself as the Seahawks' GM, it might have been because he was coaching, too.

First-round mock draft: Long climbing
Michigan tackle Jake Long has made strides in the latest Scout.com mock draft. Check out where they think he'll go.

Utecht joins Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals waited a week before learning that tight end Ben Utecht would be one of them. Now they'll have to wait another week for the former Indianapolis Colts tight end to be available for the Bengals' offseason strength and conditioning program the Cincinnati Enquirer reported.

The Bengals learned Saturday morning from the NFL office that the Colts chose not to match Cincinnati's offer sheet of a three-year, $9 million contract to Utecht. The midnight deadline passed silently overnight Friday without the Colts saying a word.

The Bengals signed Utecht to the offer sheet March 14 as a restricted free agent. Because Indianapolis had extended to him a one-year, $927,000 qualifying offer, the club had one week to match any offer sheet Utecht might have signed.

Bush recommitting himself to Saints, football

New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush plans to take part in the team's offseason program after spending most of last offseason in Southern California according to the Boston Globe.

After a dynamic rookie season, Bush felt he slipped last season, partly because he missed the final four games with a knee injury. That led critics to wonder whether Bush can succeed in the NFL.

The 23-year-old Bush said he's spent plenty of time reflecting and is recommitting himself this offseason. "I'm taking a whole different approach this year in just how I go about my business and my life," he said.

Ryan isn't the only pro prosect at Boston College

A contingent from the Miami Dolphins is scheduled to work out Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan and offensive tackle Gosder Cherilus on campus Monday, according to Cherilus's agent, Greg Diulus.

Yet while Ryan is garnering more attention, not to be overlooked is how Cherilus (6 feet 6 inches, 314 pounds) has built momentum this offseason, most recently running impressive 40 times of 5.00 and 5.06 at BC's Pro Day according to the Boston Globe.

A projected mid-to-late first-round pick, Cherilus had dinner with a five-member contingent from Carolina that night — a group that included Panthers general manager Marty Hurney and offensive coordinator Jeff Davidson — and he has visits scheduled with the Falcons, Giants, Steelers, and Lions. The Vikings also are attempting to schedule a visit, while the Bears and Jets were previously in to work him out.

For Bengals, money speaks louder than Chad Johnson

For Bengals, money speaks louder than Chad Johnson

Cincinnati Bengals officials insist they aren't going to budge, even as chatty receiver Chad Johnson continues to make noise by saying he wants to play elsewhere the Boston Globe reported.

Johnson most recently said he doesn't plan to show up for the Bengals' offseason program, which starts Monday.

Besides Johnson's vital presence in the offense, the Bengals aren't willing to move him because of the economic considerations. After paying him approximately $16 million over the last two seasons, the Bengals would take an $8 million salary cap hit by trading Johnson before June 1. While the Bengals aren't always known for their business acumen, even they can figure this one out.

Bush recommitting himself to Saints, football

New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush plans to take part in the team's offseason program after spending most of last offseason in Southern California according to the Boston Globe.

After a dynamic rookie season, Bush felt he slipped last season, partly because he missed the final four games with a knee injury. That led critics to wonder whether Bush can succeed in the NFL.

The 23-year-old Bush said he's spent plenty of time reflecting and is recommitting himself this offseason. "I'm taking a whole different approach this year in just how I go about my business and my life," he said.

Could Holmgren get a Parcells-like job in San Francisco?

Mike Holmgren didn't even want to talk about a new contract to coach the Seattle Seahawks and will be a lame duck this season before he is replaced by Jim Mora in 2009 the New York Daily News reported.

Is he done with the NFL? One source says, "He's enamored with what Parcells is doing in Miami. I can see San Francisco getting to that point."

If Mike Nolan doesn't win this year, he will get fired. He already lost his GM responsibilities. The next step for the Niners is starting over, and although Holmgren didn't distinguish himself as the Seahawks' GM, it might have been because he was coaching, too.

Ryan isn't the only pro prosect at Boston College

A contingent from the Miami Dolphins is scheduled to work out Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan and offensive tackle Gosder Cherilus on campus Monday, according to Cherilus's agent, Greg Diulus.

Yet while Ryan is garnering more attention, not to be overlooked is how Cherilus (6 feet 6 inches, 314 pounds) has built momentum this offseason, most recently running impressive 40 times of 5.00 and 5.06 at BC's Pro Day according to the Boston Globe.

A projected mid-to-late first-round pick, Cherilus had dinner with a five-member contingent from Carolina that night — a group that included Panthers general manager Marty Hurney and offensive coordinator Jeff Davidson — and he has visits scheduled with the Falcons, Giants, Steelers, and Lions. The Vikings also are attempting to schedule a visit, while the Bears and Jets were previously in to work him out.

If Miami keeps No.1 pick, Long could be the choice
If the Miami Dolphins and Bill Parcells stays put at No. 1, Virginia DE Chris Long, the son of Hall of Famer Howie Long, is likely to be his pick unless Parcells determines before the April 26 draft that quarterback John Beck, the second-round pick of the previous regime, has no chance to be a player. Then he would take Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan. Veteran Josh McCown, recently signed as a free agent, is a classic Parcells hold-the-fort guy according to the New York Daily News.

Parcells left the impression he would love to trade down a few times and turn that one pick into five of the 25 to 30 new players he anticipates being on the 1-15 team he is trying to resurrect. And that would prevent Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga and his new partner Stephen Ross from signing off on the $30 million guaranteed that will go to the No. 1 pick. That makes it much harder to deal out of the spot than 10 years ago.

"I'm not sure anybody is interested in the pick," Parcells said. "The economics of the pick are a little more devastating if it doesn't work out. You have to have some willing partners of the trade-down thing. We're in position where we are assuming we are going to make the pick."

Utecht joins Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals waited a week before learning that tight end Ben Utecht would be one of them. Now they'll have to wait another week for the former Indianapolis Colts tight end to be available for the Bengals' offseason strength and conditioning program the Cincinnati Enquirer reported.

The Bengals learned Saturday morning from the NFL office that the Colts chose not to match Cincinnati's offer sheet of a three-year, $9 million contract to Utecht. The midnight deadline passed silently overnight Friday without the Colts saying a word.

The Bengals signed Utecht to the offer sheet March 14 as a restricted free agent. Because Indianapolis had extended to him a one-year, $927,000 qualifying offer, the club had one week to match any offer sheet Utecht might have signed.

First-round mock draft: Long climbing

First-round mock draft: Long climbing
Michigan tackle Jake Long has made strides in the latest Scout.com mock draft. Check out where they think he'll go.

Falcons sign Denver kicker Elam
The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to terms with record-setting kicker Jason Elam, who is leaving Denver after 15 seasons with the Broncos. A source familiar with the negotiations, speaking on condition of anonymity because the deal had not been officially announced, said the 37-year-old Elam would be joining the Falcons.

Wilson's estranged girlfriend said story facts are inaccurate

Wilson's estranged girlfriend said story facts are inaccurate
Lindsey Paulat, the estranged girlfriend of former Pittsbrugh Steelers receiver Cedrick Wilson, said Friday the incident that led to his arrest and release from the team was overblown.
The Steelers released Wilson after his arrest Wednesday night for hitting Paulat, 26, of Fawn, at Patron's Mexican Grill on Perry Highway in Pine. Wilson is charged with simple assault, harassment and disorderly conduct the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported.

Police arrested Wilson at his home on Blue Heron Drive in Pine, the scene of a 12-hour police standoff Jan. 19 after the couple argued.

"First and foremost, Cedrick and I have a (1-year-old) daughter together. For her sake, we put her first. We will take whatever steps necessary to ensure that," Paulat said. "Cedrick walked into Patron's and saw me sitting in the bar area. He got upset when he saw me drinking. Basically he pushed me in the side of the head and said I was being stupid and then immediately left the restaurant.''

Haynesworth undecided about reporting to workouts
Albert Haynesworth said Friday he hasn't yet made up his mind as to whether he will report to Baptist Sports Park on Monday with his teammates for the beginning of the Tennessee Titans' off-season conditioning program.

The Titans placed the franchise tag on the defensive tackle on Feb. 20, which gives him the option of not reporting for any off-season work with the team if he so chooses.�Franchised players are not required to participate in OTAs and often use not reporting in the off-season as leverage in negotiations. Players sometimes sign the tender and report the week before the regular season starts.

"I haven't decided yet," Haynesworth said. "You'll have to call Chad [Speck] and talk to him about it."

Millen: Lions won't pursue Pacman Jones
The Detroit Lions are not making a bid for Adam "Pacman" Jones , the troubled Tennessee Titans cornerback who currently is under suspension by the NFL for violating the league's personal conduct policy the Detroit News reported.

The Titans are attempting to trade Jones. The Lions will not pursue Jones, team president Matt Millen said Friday after Internet reports surfaced that the Lions are one of the teams interested in Jones.

"We've talked about it, but for a lot of reasons, we aren't going to try to get him," Millen said. "He has a lot of talent. We wish him well."

Elam will play for Falcons in 2008
The NFL Network and Profootballtalk.com are reporting kicker Jason Elam will sign a multi-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons. Elam had played his entire career with the Denver Broncos.

Elam reportedly inked a�four-year, $9 million contract, with $3.3 million in guaranteed money.

It's unknown what if anything the Broncos offered to retain his services. Earlier this week, owner Pat Bowlen said that he was paying attention to the situation, and he presumably wanted to keep Elam around.

Belichick makes stop at South Florida

Belichick makes stop at South Florida
The Tampa Tribune reports that New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick stopped at the University of South Florida on Wednesday as part of his annual Florida trip.

Belichick met with South Florida draft-eligible prospects Mike Jenkins and Trae Williams, both of whom are cornerbacks. Jenkins is considered one of the top cornerbacks in the draft, a possible first-round selection. Williams is projected as a mid-round selection.

Belichick annually makes a pre-draft trip to Florida to get a first-hand look at prospects. He was at the University of Florida earlier this week.

Oakland caps spending spree by inking Hall
The Oakland Raiders capped an extraordinary free agent signing (and spending) period Thursday afternoon, finalizing a seven-year contract for cornerback DeAngelo Hall that will pay the former Falcons Pro Bowler just over $66 million total and $24.55 million guaranteed.

Hall signed the contract after the teams consummated a much-anticipated trade that sent Hall, 24, to Oakland in exchange for the Raiders' second-round pick (34th overall) in April's draft and their fifth-round pick in 2009.

The deal, NFL sources confirmed, was brokered almost exclusively by Raiders owner Al Davis, who dealt directly with Hall and his agent, Alvin Keels, on the new contract - essential if the trade was to be completed. Keels also spoke with Rick Snead, who is in the Raiders' pro personnel department, but Davis was the primary negotiator.

Vikings add Michael Boulware, Kendrick Allen
The Minnesota Vikings signed free agent Michael Boulware Thursday, giving them depth at safety. Boulware came in for a visit Thursday; he visited with the Carolina Panthers on Monday.

"I had a great meeting with the coaches and liked the direction that the organization is going," Boulware told my colleague Kevin Seifert as he rode to the airport. "I think this gives me a great opportunity to come here and get better as a player."

Boulware spent last season with the Houston Texans and the organization wanted to use him at linebacker. Boulware will serve as a backup safety and also play on special teams. The Vikings now have Darren Sharper and Madieu Williams as their starting safeties; Boulware and Eric Frampton are the backups.

Also signing was DT Kendrick Allen, who was last with Green Bay in 2006. He played in two games and spent the rest of the season on injured reserve.

Hardwick claims misdiagnosis, has foot surgery

The San Diego Chargers could be without another offensive starter early next season, as center Nick Hardwick underwent surgery last week to repair a severe sprain in his right foot according to the San Diego Union Tribune.

Hardwick's recovery could last into September, or he could be healthy when training camp begins at the end of July.
"I think I'll be ready to go by the season," Hardwick said yesterday. "If not, I'll definitely be there when it starts getting interesting."

A Pro Bowler in 2006, Hardwick initially injured the foot on Oct. 14 of last year against the Oakland Raiders and missed the next four games. In early November, a foot specialist told Hardwick he was OK to play and could not do any further damage.

"It was misdiagnosed during the season," Hardwick said. "I was told it was a minor tweak."

Cowboys working a deal for Pacman Jones?
The Dallas Cowboys have held preliminary discussions with the Tennessee Titans about trading for suspended cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones, according to a source the Dallas Morning News reported. The Cowboys could give up a late-round draft pick to acquire Jones.

According to a source, Titans officials are not in a hurry to make a deal but realize the best way to move on without Jones is to trade him. Jones told his Atlanta-based agent, Manny Arora, if traded he would put the Cowboys near the top of the list of teams he would play for. Arora, however, said he's talked to numerous teams about Jones and would like a trade to occur before the NFL draft on April 26-27.

"If Tennessee chooses not to have him on their roster next year, it's in their best interest to trade him," Arora said, "because if not, they would get no compensation."

Sooner or later DeMarcus Ware will cash in
Either this year or next, linebacker DeMarcus Ware figures to cash in on what should be the most lucrative contract Jerry Jones has ever given out in terms of guaranteed money as the Dallas Cowboys' owner and general manager according to the Dallas Morning News.

After three years, Ware has been named to the Pro Bowl twice and was an alternate as a rookie. His sack totals have increased each year from eight in 2005 to 11� in 2006 and 14 last season, which brought him consideration for the Defensive Player of the Year award. Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones acknowledged recently part of the team's lack of work in the current free-agent market was due to the fact they have to re-sign cornerback Terence Newman, who is in the final year of his contract, and Ware, whose deal runs out in 2009.

Considering Indianapolis gave its pass-rushing fiend, Dwight Freeney, a six-year, $72 million deal with a $30 million signing bonus last summer, the Cowboys are probably looking at similar numbers for Ware. Probably more. Freeney, 28, has done it longer, but Ware only turns 26 in July.

Carolina signs Gross, two other linemen
The Carolina Panthers re-signed starting tackle Jordan Gross and two other offensive linemen, general manager Marty Hurney confirmed Thursday night.

Gross, designated as the team's franchise player, will earn a fully-guaranteed one-year contract worth $7.455 million. Under the terms of the franchise tag, the only way Gross could have gone elsewhere would have been if another team been willing to surrender two first-round draft picks to sign him. That rarely happens in the NFL.

Interior linemen Geoff Hangartner and Evan Mathis would have come cheaper, but no teams showed interest in signing them to offer sheets, so they too have re-signed.Teams interested in Hangartner or Mathis would have had to come off the hip with a second- and third-round pick, respectively. Hangartner will make $1.47 million this season, while Mathis will collect $927,000 provided they make the team.

Miami narrows focus of No.1 selection
Miami Dolphins officials got a look Tuesday at two candidates for the No. 1 draft pick — Virginia's Chris Long and Boston College's Matt Ryan, at their schools' Pro Days. But more contact with Miami awaits according to the Miami Herald.

The Dolphins have scheduled private meetings with Long, Ryan and Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long in their college cities, according to officials who work with each player. (They have not requested similar sessions with Arkansas running back Darren McFadden, Ohio State defensive end Vernon Gholston and LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey, agents said.)

The Dolphins sent quarterbacks coach David Lee and director of college scouting Chris Grier to BC's Pro Day on Tuesday, while scout Bill Baker and outside linebacker coach Jim Reid were dispatched to Virginia. At Michigan's Pro Day last Friday, the Dolphins had national scout Ron Labadie, whose son Brad is Michigan's director of football operations.

Belichick makes stop at South Florida

Belichick makes stop at South Florida
The Tampa Tribune reports that New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick stopped at the University of South Florida on Wednesday as part of his annual Florida trip.

Belichick met with South Florida draft-eligible prospects Mike Jenkins and Trae Williams, both of whom are cornerbacks. Jenkins is considered one of the top cornerbacks in the draft, a possible first-round selection. Williams is projected as a mid-round selection.

Belichick annually makes a pre-draft trip to Florida to get a first-hand look at prospects. He was at the University of Florida earlier this week.

Vikings add Michael Boulware, Kendrick Allen
The Minnesota Vikings signed free agent Michael Boulware Thursday, giving them depth at safety. Boulware came in for a visit Thursday; he visited with the Carolina Panthers on Monday.

"I had a great meeting with the coaches and liked the direction that the organization is going," Boulware told my colleague Kevin Seifert as he rode to the airport. "I think this gives me a great opportunity to come here and get better as a player."

Boulware spent last season with the Houston Texans and the organization wanted to use him at linebacker. Boulware will serve as a backup safety and also play on special teams. The Vikings now have Darren Sharper and Madieu Williams as their starting safeties; Boulware and Eric Frampton are the backups.

Also signing was DT Kendrick Allen, who was last with Green Bay in 2006. He played in two games and spent the rest of the season on injured reserve.

Cowboys working a deal for Pacman Jones?
The Dallas Cowboys have held preliminary discussions with the Tennessee Titans about trading for suspended cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones, according to a source the Dallas Morning News reported. The Cowboys could give up a late-round draft pick to acquire Jones.

According to a source, Titans officials are not in a hurry to make a deal but realize the best way to move on without Jones is to trade him. Jones told his Atlanta-based agent, Manny Arora, if traded he would put the Cowboys near the top of the list of teams he would play for. Arora, however, said he's talked to numerous teams about Jones and would like a trade to occur before the NFL draft on April 26-27.

"If Tennessee chooses not to have him on their roster next year, it's in their best interest to trade him," Arora said, "because if not, they would get no compensation."

Sooner or later DeMarcus Ware will cash in
Either this year or next, linebacker DeMarcus Ware figures to cash in on what should be the most lucrative contract Jerry Jones has ever given out in terms of guaranteed money as the Dallas Cowboys' owner and general manager according to the Dallas Morning News.

After three years, Ware has been named to the Pro Bowl twice and was an alternate as a rookie. His sack totals have increased each year from eight in 2005 to 11� in 2006 and 14 last season, which brought him consideration for the Defensive Player of the Year award. Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones acknowledged recently part of the team's lack of work in the current free-agent market was due to the fact they have to re-sign cornerback Terence Newman, who is in the final year of his contract, and Ware, whose deal runs out in 2009.

Considering Indianapolis gave its pass-rushing fiend, Dwight Freeney, a six-year, $72 million deal with a $30 million signing bonus last summer, the Cowboys are probably looking at similar numbers for Ware. Probably more. Freeney, 28, has done it longer, but Ware only turns 26 in July.

Steelers WR Wilson charged with assault

Steelers WR Wilson charged with assault
Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Cedrick Wilson has been charged with assaulting his estranged girlfriend at a suburban restaurant Wednesday night. A police criminal complaint said the 29-year-old Wilson entered Patron Mexican Grill in Pine Township shortly before 8 p.m. and saw Lindsey Paulat sitting at the bar. Authorities allege that he pushed her on the shoulder and then punched her in the face.

Spring may be in the air, but not football

Spring may be in the air, but not football
A maverick league with fresh ideas, the USFL had potential and problems. Alex Marvez looks at the glory days of spring football.

Johnson, Bengals appear headed for a showdown

Johnson, Bengals appear headed for a showdown
Chad Johnson's offseason of discontent could be headed for its first showdown Monday with the Cincinnati Bengals according to the Cincinati Enquirer. And the Bengals wide receiver, in a series of Los Angeles-based television appearances, said he would not participate in the team's offseason strength and conditioning program beginning Monday.

"I will not be there," he said during a late afternoon stop at Current TV and Current.com. "There are a lot of issues that need to be dealt with. Nothing has changed."

The Bengals will begin their offseason strength and conditioning program at Paul Brown Stadium. It is not mandatory, though Johnson — who has been a regular attendee every year since drafted by the Bengals in 2001 — can earn a $250,000 workout bonus by participating. Johnson might have dropped a hint about what he intends to do, when he said Tuesday morning in an interview on ESPN2, "You know, my offseason for football hasn't started yet. I haven't started training yet. I am still somewhat enjoying the offseason. You know, I don't start working out on my own until April."

Davis shows why Raiders remain dysfunctional
If you look at recent deals, Al Davis still has plenty of dollars to spend on his team. Our NFL Czar just isn't sure he has any more sense.

Kevin Smith is very thorough with the self-back patting

That's Central Florida running back Kevin Smith, who's been posting video updates of himself going through the draft process on YouTube. Some might call this a video blog, but please don't, because if you do, Bob Costas will hate him forever. I was completely unaware of any of this until Deadspin posted it yesterday.

Not only did this make me like Kevin Smith (the man spends 60 hours a week on his grind, or his "grizzy," if you will), but I'm thinking this should be mandatory for every potential NFL draftee. Imagine if every player had to do this, and we could all follow the draft this way. You'd actually feel like you knew the guy when your team drafted him.

Your reactions and level of emotional investment would be totally different.

"We took Maurice Splurgdington in the 2nd round? Dammit, man! That guy said on his second video blog that he didn't see why anyone thought There Will Be Blood was a good movie! Can you believe that? I don't want a guy who can't appreciate film roving our secondary. Every time I see him, I'll just wonder what more Daniel Day-Lewis could have done.

Or, you know, whatever your personal preferences happened to be.

Kevin Smith Keeps The Draft Updates Coming / Deadspin

Only 'tweaking of contract' standing between Hall and Oakland

Cornerback DeAngelo Hall, a two-time Pro Bowler with the Atlanta Falcons, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Tuesday that he is close to finalizing terms on a new contract with the Oakland Raiders. The deal will set in motion an agreed upon trade in which the Falcons would receive two selections in the April 26-27 NFL draft.

Hall said he is scheduled to fly to Oakland Wednesday to meet with team officials and sign his contract once the trade is formally declared today or Thursday. The Falcons will save nearly $3 million against the salary cap by trading Hall.

"There is just some tweaking of the language that needs to be done, some minor details," Hall, 24, said of contract negotiations. "No deal breakers."

State purchase of Wrigley Field in jeopardy

State purchase of Wrigley Field in jeopardy

The government authority angling for Wrigley Field is expected to submit its bid as early as Tuesday, but the proposal will arrive badly bruised, according to sources close to the potential deal the Chicago Tribune reported.

"It's not dead, but it's on life support," said one source. "It's not evident the deal will get done at all."

The potential deal-killers are plentiful. Mayor Richard Daley is chafing at the prospect of sales tax revenue being diverted and the ballpark's landmark status being changed. Illinois lawmakers, faced with dire funding problems, are resistant to the idea of spending money to help out a private business. And Cub fans have been howling at the prospect of naming rights being sold to help fund the deal, and the outcry appears to be scaring off potential corporate sponsors.

Steve Smith doesn't have to feel so alone anymore

Steve Smith doesn't have to feel so alone anymore
Quick, tell me who led the Carolina Panthers in receptions last year.

That's right, Steve Smith. Nice work. I'm proud of you. Now, just as quickly, name the Panthers second-leading receiver last year.

Struggling a bit with that?

Hint: It was not second-round draft pick Dwayne Jarrett, who has only six more receptions than DUI arrests in the past calendar year.

Hint #2: It was not Drew Carter or Keary Colbert. They are not very good at being wide receivers (and are no longer with the Panthers).

Hint #3: It's a tight end.

I'm guessing that some of you still don't have it yet. And that's cool, I wouldn't have known if I wasn't a huge fantasy football dork. It was Jeff King, a second-year guy out of Virginia Tech.

But the Panthers have signed DJ Hackett (pictured to the right, doing his Dwayne Jarrett impression) to help rectify that situation, and hopefully allow Steve Smith a little bit of room to operate. Nothing against Jeff King, but when Jeff King's is second on your team in receptions, you're in trouble.

The Carolina people assured Hackett that he'd be the number two receiver for the Panthers, which seems odd to me, given that the team also signed Mushin Muhammad recently.

Regardless, it's a nice bargain pick-up for the Panthers, and it makes Hackett an interesting late-round fantasy option. He's had injury issues, but when he's played, he's put up numbers. At $3.5 million over two years, the Panthers got a steal here.

•�WR D.J. Hackett agrees to 2-year, $3.5 million deal with Panthers / Yahoo! Sports

Panthers, Hackett agree to 2-year, $3.5M deal
Free agent wideout D.J. Hackett agreed to two-year, $3.5 million deal with Carolina on Monday as the Panthers continued to upgrade their receiving corps. The former Seahawk chose Carolina over Seattle, Washington and Tampa Bay, according to his agent, Kevin Robinson. The Panthers have been busy trying to get star receiver Steve Smith help after he faced constant double-teams last season. The Panthers signed receiver Muhsin Muhammad last month after he was released by Chicago.

David Carr was too darn cool to be any good at his job
ESPN.com's Pat Yasinskas recently talked to brand new New York Giant David Carr about his past failures, and his hopes for future success. During the course of the conversation, Yasinskas sacked Carr three times.

Okay, that's (probably) not true. But that doesn't mean the conversation wasn't interesting and/or confusing. Carr did offer an explanation or two for why his career hasn't gone exactly as planned: He was just way too cool.

Then, his trademark California cool --wearing the glove, dropping the word "dude'' often in conversation and that shoulder-length hair -- started rubbing people in the locker room and in NASCAR land the wrong way.
[...]
In hindsight, the 28-year-old Carr says he has it now: The California cool has to go.

"That's something guys from California have to work against,'' Carr said. "Sometimes, we make things look too easy. I thought I had the right attitude in Houston and Carolina, but I realize now that I didn't. I worked hard, but I didn't prepare myself well enough to give my teammates true confidence in me.''
[...]
"I always worked hard and studied film and all that stuff,'' Carr said. "But I didn't really let people know that I was doing that. I've realized you've got to show that to get respect and confidence. I'm going to go in with the attitude that I'm going to work harder than I ever have before and leave no stone unturned.''

First, I'm unclear on exactly what it was that David Carr ever made look easy. Every time I watched him play, I thought, "That looks like it really hurts," which is the reaction I think most people had, since Carr spent most of his time crawling out from underneath a pile of linebackers. Not much about that looked easy.

I'm also a little confused on how hard Carr worked. He says he worked hard, and then that he didn't prepare himself well enough. And again, he says he worked hard, he just failed to let other people know that he was working hard, which he should have done, because if he had, his teammates would know that he was working hard, just not quite hard enough to be well-prepared. Because that would have ... helped? I don't know.

What's clear, though, is that Carr has always been the epitome of cool. He wears a white glove, which makes him similar to Michael Jackson, and Michael Jackson is still cool, right? I bet Carr also is so cool that he wears a red leather jacket with studded shoulders and multiple useless zippers. For Carr's sake, I hope no sort of scandal hits Michael Jackson that would make him uncool.

I think it would be a terrible waste if Carr's cool was sacrificed just so he could be useful in any way in the NFL.

• Carr determined to seize make-or-break opportunity with Giants / ESPN.com

Jets sign TE Franks to 1-year deal
The New York Jets signed three-time Pro Bowl tight end Bubba Franks to a one-year deal Monday. Franks, who spent the last eight seasons with Green Bay, will likely be the backup to Chris Baker. The 30-year-old Franks has battled injuries and his offensive production has slipped the last few years after Pro Bowl seasons from 2001-03. He was relegated to backup duty behind Donald Lee last season. The No.

Year of the Receiver? Eh, not quite

Year of the Receiver? Eh, not quite
Last year's NFL draft class had a bounty of wide receivers. This year's? Well, Peter Schrager isn't sold on any of them just yet.

Special team ace White will stay in Green Bay
Tracy White, the Green Bay Packers' most productive player on special teams over the last two seasons, will be back in 2008.

White agreed with the Packers on a two-year, $1.8 million contract that contained a $250,000 signing bonus. White said Sunday that the Broncos offered him a signing bonus in the $500,000 range early in free agency but that fell through when they signed Seattle linebacker Niko Koutouvides.

"I love it in Green Bay," said White, who visited Denver and Pittsburgh during the first week of the unrestricted free-agent signing period before deciding to re-sign with the Packers. "Basically, I was talking to Green Bay the whole time."

Jets, Bubba Franks close to finalizing deal

Jets, Bubba Franks close to finalizing deal

The New York Jets, determined to improve upon last season's 4-12 debacle, are continuing one of their busiest offseasons and are close to signing three-time Pro Bowl tight end Bubba Franks, according to two people with knowledge of the negotiations.
Those people spoke on condition of anonymity because talks are ongoing. An official announcement could come as early as tomorrow, when the Jets begin their offseason program.

On Friday, the Jets missed out on tight end Ben Utecht (Colts), who signed an offer sheet with the Bengals. They immediately turned their attention to Franks, who was released by the Packers last month. He has already visited with the Jets.

Franks, an eight-year veteran whose given name is Daniel, has been plagued by injuries the past three seasons but remains a solid blocker and reliable receiver, especially in the red zone. He's viewed as a good complement to starter Chris Baker. The Jets have been searching for a quality backup tight end for several seasons.

Scouts get to see BC's Ryan Tuesday
Boston College becomes the center of the NFL universe Tuesday.

At least two head coaches, five general managers, and five directors of player personnel are scheduled to attend the Eagles' annual Pro Day. In all, about 25 of the league's 32 teams are planning to have representatives in attendance, from executives, to scouts, to coaches according to the Boston Globe.

With BC quarterback Matt Ryan projected by some as a potential No. 1 overall selection in next month's draft, the spotlight will be shining on Chestnut Hill. BC officials have been planning the event for more than a month, detailing everything from parking to security.

Deuce allows Saints to delay $1 million roster bonus
The New Orleans Saints and tailback Deuce McAllister agreed to push back his $1 million roster bonus from March 15 to April 15, giving the team a better chance to gauge his health before making any financial decisions the Times-Picayune reported.

McAllister, 29, is recovering from surgery on both of his knees in late September. He expects to be ready for the team's summer minicamp, usually around June 1, but he said he was agreeable to the postponement because it gives him more time to prove he'll "make good on the investment."

"I think, honestly, if I would have pushed for it, I think I could have gotten it. But in doing that, they probably would have wanted to lower my pay," said McAllister, who is scheduled to receive a salary of $3.6 million this season, in addition to the $1 million roster bonus and a $100,000 workout bonus.''

Eagles among 12 teams interested in ex-Lion Jones
Kevin Jones says he wouldn't mind playing next season for the Philadelphia Eagles, the team he rooted for as a kid growing up in the Philly suburbs.�Jones was released by the Detroit Lions on Thursday, opening up plenty of options for next season.

Two hours after the Lions' release was made public, 12 teams showed interest, according to Jones, including the Eagles. Jones' best season was his rookie year, when he rushed for 1,133 yards and five touchdowns in 15 games. In 4 years in the NFL, he rushed for 3,067 yards on 761 carries, with 24 touchdowns.

"When the Lions drafted me, it came as a big shock, because they weren't that much in the picture. It wasn't my dream situation. It would be a dream, however, to play for the Eagles. Going back to Philly, with all my relatives and friends back there, that's home to me. Chester will always be home to me. I have a real support system there in Philadelphia. Playing for the Eagles would be great."

.

Falcons may be close to trading Hall to Raiders
The Atlanta Falcons could be close to trading defensive back DeAngelo Hall to the Oakland Raiders for second- and sixth-round picks in the April draft, according to a person close to the negotiations the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Hall, who denied the deal was close earlier Saturday, reportedly was in Oakland on Friday to meet with Raiders officials. Hall and his representatives are negotiating a contract with the Raiders, which needs to be agreed upon before the trade is completed, according to the person close to the negotiations.

Reports say the deal is close to the six-year, $57 million that unrestricted free agent Asante Samuel signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, with $20 million in guarantees. The Raiders covet a solid cornerback to play alongside Nnamdi Asomugha.

Falcons may be close to trading Hall to Raiders

Falcons may be close to trading Hall to Raiders
The Atlanta Falcons could be close to trading defensive back DeAngelo Hall to the Oakland Raiders for second- and sixth-round picks in the April draft, according to a person close to the negotiations the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Hall, who denied the deal was close earlier Saturday, reportedly was in Oakland on Friday to meet with Raiders officials. Hall and his representatives are negotiating a contract with the Raiders, which needs to be agreed upon before the trade is completed, according to the person close to the negotiations.

Reports say the deal is close to the six-year, $57 million that unrestricted free agent Asante Samuel signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, with $20 million in guarantees. The Raiders covet a solid cornerback to play alongside Nnamdi Asomugha.

Scouts get to see BC's Ryan Tuesday
Boston College becomes the center of the NFL universe Tuesday.

At least two head coaches, five general managers, and five directors of player personnel are scheduled to attend the Eagles' annual Pro Day. In all, about 25 of the league's 32 teams are planning to have representatives in attendance, from executives, to scouts, to coaches according to the Boston Globe.

With BC quarterback Matt Ryan projected by some as a potential No. 1 overall selection in next month's draft, the spotlight will be shining on Chestnut Hill. BC officials have been planning the event for more than a month, detailing everything from parking to security.

Deuce allows Saints to delay $1 million roster bonus
The New Orleans Saints and tailback Deuce McAllister agreed to push back his $1 million roster bonus from March 15 to April 15, giving the team a better chance to gauge his health before making any financial decisions the Times-Picayune reported.

McAllister, 29, is recovering from surgery on both of his knees in late September. He expects to be ready for the team's summer minicamp, usually around June 1, but he said he was agreeable to the postponement because it gives him more time to prove he'll "make good on the investment."

"I think, honestly, if I would have pushed for it, I think I could have gotten it. But in doing that, they probably would have wanted to lower my pay," said McAllister, who is scheduled to receive a salary of $3.6 million this season, in addition to the $1 million roster bonus and a $100,000 workout bonus.''

Jets, Bubba Franks close to finalizing deal

The New York Jets, determined to improve upon last season's 4-12 debacle, are continuing one of their busiest offseasons and are close to signing three-time Pro Bowl tight end Bubba Franks, according to two people with knowledge of the negotiations.
Those people spoke on condition of anonymity because talks are ongoing. An official announcement could come as early as tomorrow, when the Jets begin their offseason program.

On Friday, the Jets missed out on tight end Ben Utecht (Colts), who signed an offer sheet with the Bengals. They immediately turned their attention to Franks, who was released by the Packers last month. He has already visited with the Jets.

Franks, an eight-year veteran whose given name is Daniel, has been plagued by injuries the past three seasons but remains a solid blocker and reliable receiver, especially in the red zone. He's viewed as a good complement to starter Chris Baker. The Jets have been searching for a quality backup tight end for several seasons.

Eagles among 12 teams interested in ex-Lion Jones
Kevin Jones says he wouldn't mind playing next season for the Philadelphia Eagles, the team he rooted for as a kid growing up in the Philly suburbs.�Jones was released by the Detroit Lions on Thursday, opening up plenty of options for next season.

Two hours after the Lions' release was made public, 12 teams showed interest, according to Jones, including the Eagles. Jones' best season was his rookie year, when he rushed for 1,133 yards and five touchdowns in 15 games. In 4 years in the NFL, he rushed for 3,067 yards on 761 carries, with 24 touchdowns.

"When the Lions drafted me, it came as a big shock, because they weren't that much in the picture. It wasn't my dream situation. It would be a dream, however, to play for the Eagles. Going back to Philly, with all my relatives and friends back there, that's home to me. Chester will always be home to me. I have a real support system there in Philadelphia. Playing for the Eagles would be great."

.

Raiders add injured Giants DT Joseph

Raiders add injured Giants DT Joseph
The Oakland Raiders signed free-agent defensive tackle William Joseph on Friday, adding a former first-round pick whose career has been plagued by injuries. Joseph missed all of last season for the Super Bowl champion New York Giants with a back injury. He was a late scratch for New York's season opener and then placed on injury reserve the following week. Joseph was the 25th overall pick out of Miami in the 2003 draft.

Will Colts match Cincy offer for Utecht?
Ben Utecht, a pass-receiving tight end, signed a multiyear offer sheet with the Cincinnati Bengals, but he's not being fitted with his stripped helmet just yet. There's another step in the process before Utecht would become a Bengal the Cincinnati Enquirer reported.

Indianapolis gave him a $927,000 one-year qualifying offer, which gives them one week to decide whether to match the Cincinnati offer sheet and retain Utecht's rights. Terms of the offer sheet were not available. Because Utecht was not drafted out of college, the Bengals would not be required to compensate the Colts with a future draft choice. A restricted free agent is a player with three credited NFL seasons whose contract has expired.

"I don't know what they'll do," Utecht said of the Colts. "I'm sure I'll have a conversation with (Colts coach and fellow University of Minnesota alum) Tony Dungy."

Ryan eagerly awaits his 'job interview'
Matt Ryan has long imagined making big throws. He gets his chance Tuesday in what he tells Jay Glazer amounts to a job interview.