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."

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