FALCONS WAIVE THREE

Falcons waived WR Derrick Hamilton, TE Jon Hamlett and LS Tim Lindsey.

RISON FILES BANKRUPTCY

Corey Williams, of The Associated Press, reports former NFL WR Andre Rison has been ordered by a Michigan court to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy so he can pay child support previously owed, attorney fees and court costs.

NFL EUROPE UPDATE

What a final weekend of football this will be!

For the first time in NFL Europa League history, both World Bowl spots are up for grabs entering the
last week of the season.

The Cologne Centurions, Frankfurt Galaxy and Hamburg Sea Devils all sport matching 6-3 records as
Week 10 approaches. All three teams are in action on Saturday as Hamburg visits Rhein and
Frankfurt hosts Cologne with the winner advancing to World Bowl XV.

The Sea Devils can clinch a World Bowl berth with a win or tie against the Fire. Hamburg, which
holds the edge in tiebreakers over both Cologne and Frankfurt, can also qualify for the championship
game with a loss as long as the Cologne-Frankfurt game does not end in a tie.

The defending-champion Galaxy hope to return to the World Bowl and can do so with a win or tie
against the Centurions. Cologne needs either a win or a tie coupled with a Hamburg loss to reach the
title game.

In Week 9 action, Hamburg defeated Frankfurt 36-31 in front of 30,528 fans at AOL Arena.
Washington Redskins quarterback CASEY BRAMLET threw a 50-yard game-winning touchdown to
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver MARCUS MAXWELL with 48 seconds remaining. The game
featured two of the league’s best quarterbacks as Bramlet passed for 267 yards and two touchdowns
while the Chicago Bears’ J.T. O’SULLIVAN led Frankfurt with 367 yards and four touchdowns.

“This was a hard-fought game on both sides,” said Hamburg head coach VINCE MARTINO. “The
kids never gave up and they hung in there. I’m proud of our kids.”

Cologne quarterback ERIK MEYER threw for 287 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Centurions
past the Amsterdam Admirals 31-13. Kansas City Chiefs running back DERRICK ROSS added 52
rushing yards and one score.

“It was a good win,” said Meyer. “Now we plan on winning this week and going to the World Bowl.”

Rhein quarterback CODY PICKETT threw two first-half touchdowns and linebacker JAMAR ENZOR
scored on an interception return as the Fire defeated the Berlin Thunder 24-17. Rhein has won two
games in a row and improved to 4-5 with the win.

DAUNTE FILES GRIEVANCE

Harvey Fialkov, of the Sun-Sentinel, reports Miami Dolphins QB Daunte Culpepper has decided to file a grievance against the team for barring him from participating in team drills, according to NFL Players Association attorney Richard Berthelsen. Culpepper is expected to file the grievance soon in an effort to force the Dolphins to release him.

RAIDERS QB UPDATE

Jason Jones, of the Sacramento Bee, reports Oakland Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell and QB Josh McCown split snaps during the team's minicamp practice Monday, June 11.

PAC MAN WITHDRAWS APPEAL

The Associated Press reports Tennessee Titans CB Adam Jones withdrew the appeal of his suspension Tuesday, June 12, and will serve the one-year term issued by National Football League commissioner Roger Goodell. Jones could be eligible to return after 10 games if he meets all the restrictions set by Goodell. "Last week, I asked for an opportunity to meet privately with commissioner Goodell," Jones said. "I met with him earlier today to tell him about the steps I have taken to change my life since being suspended by the NFL. I accept the discipline that's been imposed on me and I am withdrawing my appeal."

49ERS SIGN DT VET

The San Francisco 49ers announced Monday that they have signed four-year NFL veteran DT Sam Rayburn as a free agent. Terms of the contract were not announced by the team. Rayburn most previously played for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Source: 49ers.com

JP LOSMAN UPDATE

Bills minicamp opened Monday and Losman looked like a winner. His passes looked crisp and accurate. Receivers ran sharp routes and Losman hit them just as they separated from defenders. On Monday, he was particularly sharp in blitz drills. The ball rarely hit the ground. Receivers caught almost everything.

"When you have one year under your belt, coming into your second year, you become more comfortable with the calls, where you need to go, what you need to do," Bills wide receiver Lee Evans said. "He has become a lot more relaxed and a lot more poised in situations in games. He has just become a lot more relaxed."

The biggest reason for the comfort zone is continuity. This is only the second time in eight years the Bills' offense returned the same starting quarterback (Losman) and offensive coordinator (Steve Fairchild). Continuous change on offense is one of the reasons the Bills have been out of the playoffs seven consecutive years, tying the franchise's longest streak. Bills fans used to the K-Gun offense under Jim Kelly have seen mostly misfires since his retirement.

For those trying to visualize the Bills' offense, you need to look to St. Louis. Fairchild brings the offense Mike Martz made famous with the Rams to Buffalo. Tempo and quickness are the keys to that system. Losman looked terrific Monday as he hit receivers in stride. That wasn't the case a year ago.

Source: John Clayton, ESPN

SAMSON SATELE UPDATE

Miami Dolphins rookie center Samson Satele is proving his toughness. Last week he practiced with the first line, during a three-day minicamp, despite recently enduring 5 root canals. HC Cam Cameron noted he is impressed, saying, "I'm talking about his toughness, He never flinched, never said a word. I have never been around a guy yet that really practiced a whole practice with one root canal and he's had five in the last however many days. One thing is, we know he's smart and we know he's tough, which goes a long way at that position."

Source: Harvey Fialkov, South Florida Sun-Sentinel

CADILLAC WILLIAMS UPDATE

In an effort to strengthen the muscles in his feet and improve his overall balance, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have had RB Cadillac Williams running in tennis shoes and sometimes with no shoes at all. The change comes as a result of the problems Williams has had avoiding foot injuries, which have cost him playing time in each of his first two seasons. "It's a little different, but it's helping me to get a good feel in my feet," Williams said of the footwear change. "The bottom line is I think it's helping me a lot."

Source: Roy Cummings, Tampa Tribune

GEORGIA WR DRAFTED BY MLB

TIFTON, Ga. (AP) -- Tift County High School's two-sport star Israel Troupe, already enrolled at the University of Georgia on a football scholarship, faces a career decision after he was picked in the 31st round of the baseball draft by the Colorado Rockies on Friday.

Troupe, a wide receiver, already is taking classes at Georgia but now has an option of a professional baseball career.

"I don't know anything right now," Troupe told The Tifton Gazette. "I haven't spoken with anyone from the Rockies yet. I do know it is an honor to have been selected out of high school though."

Troupe (6-1, 200) said he was surprised to have been drafted by Colorado.

"I know they had a representative at a couple of my games, but I never really talked to them," Troupe said. "I don't even know if they were at any of my other games."

Troupe, an outfielder, batted .410 for the Devils this year. He had four homers, 28 RBIs and scored 27 runs.

ALABAMA QB TO TRANSFER

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) -- Alabama quarterback Jimmy Barnes has decided to transfer to a Division I-AA school, but hasn't picked one yet.

The sophomore has three years of eligibility remaining.

Barnes moved up to second on the depth chart behind John Parker Wilson when Marc Guillon left school during last season. He was unable to participate in contact drills during spring practice because of a knee injury.

Freshman Greg McElroy worked behind Wilson during the spring.

The Crimson Tide's only other scholarship quarterback is incoming freshman Nick Fanuzzi, a 6-foot-3, 200-pounder from San Antonio, Texas.

J-RUSS UPDATE

Steve Corkran, of MediaNews, reports Oakland Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell, who weighed 256 pounds during his personal workout in March, has lost four more pounds since joining the team.

BEN COATES UPDATE

Ben Coates, 37, currently is in North Carolina contemplating his next move in coaching after spending the previous two years on Romeo Crennel’s staff in Cleveland. In the meantime, he wouldn’t mind earning a piece of Patriots immortality. “It’s a great honor to be nominated,” he said. “Just to be mentioned with those type of guys, like Andre Tippett, Bruce Armstrong, the guys who played before my era. It would be a total honor to join them.”

CHARGERS UPDATE

Among the Chargers contracts that run out after 2009 are those of quarterback Philip Rivers, left tackle Marcus McNeill and linebacker Shawne Merriman. That's three Pro Bowlers at big-money positions. Additionally, Rivers and McNeill are represented by Sexton, and Merriman picked up agent Tom Condon this offseason. Both agents are among the biggest in the business, and neither exchanges holiday cards with Smith. Also up after '09: defensive end Luis Castillo and receiver Vincent Jackson. Smith would like to keep all five players and is confident he can. The Chargers likely will approach one, two or all three of the big fish within the next year.

WADSWORTH COMEBACK UPDATE

At 32, seven years after playing his last NFL game, and six years after doctors told him he would never play again, Andre Wadsworth is trying to come back with the Jets. Wadsworth, the third pick overall out of Florida State in 1998 as a pass-rushing defensive end, is attempting to battle back from 15 surgeries -- 13 on his knees and two on his Achilles' tendons. In fact, he has had more surgeries than career sacks (eight in 36 games) and is perhaps the biggest bust in the star-crossed history of the Cardinals. "No, it's not about changing my legacy. It's about playing a sport that I love," Wadsworth said last week. "I have an opportunity to do it and you don't have forever to do it. I'm just trying to squeeze the little bit of time I have left since I'm healthy. "There's nothing I can do about what happened in my career. A legacy is something you want to change if you did something you had control of. I had no control of what happened to me. So I have no regrets or remorse because I played the hand I was dealt and I played it to the best of my ability."

Source: Ben Maller

TRADE TALK

* If the Vikings trade outspoken cornerback Antoine Winfield, the Patriots, who have two first-round draft picks next spring, would seem a logical destination. New England cornerback Asante Samuel, by the way, is holding out for more guaranteed money.

* One player who is potentially available that could interest the Titans is Alex Brown of the Chicago Bears. Brown is attempting to force a trade from the Bears, though Chicago thus far has been somewhat reluctant to accommodate him.

* Hell will freeze over before the Patriots allow holdout, franchised corner Asante Samuel to bolt to the Jets - unless New York is willing to part with two first-round draft choices. Of course, it will also take hell freezing over before Eric Mangini gives Belichick and Pioli two first-rounders. So there is no practical way for Samuel to end up with the Jets, just as there was no prayer of Deion Branch going to New York last year. So any conversations the Jets have with Samuel are done with only the intention of poisoning the waters in New England.

Source: Ben Maller

ZWICK GETS TRYOUT

As recently as last week, Justin Zwick was coming to grips with the idea his football days might be over.

He was hanging around Columbus, Ohio, and contemplating potential careers in sales or broadcasting.

At least for a bit, those plans can wait. Zwick, a former Ohio State quarterback, signed with the Carolina Panthers on Monday. He went undrafted in April and wasn't among the hundreds of players who signed with teams in the days immediately after the draft.

"I thought I'd be a free agent somewhere, but it didn't work out that way,'' Zwick said.

He got his chance late last week when he caught the attention of Panthers coaches during a Thursday workout.

He'll join the team as the fifth quarterback on the unofficial depth chart behind Jake Delhomme, David Carr, Brett Basanez and fellow undrafted rookie Dalton Bell.

That might make Zwick a long shot to make the team in training camp, but he said being with the Panthers beats the alternative.

"It's a great opportunity," Zwick said. "I'm kind of looking at it as getting my foot in the door. Whatever happens from there, happens from there."

Source: Charlotte Observer

PAC MAN APPEAL UPDATE

According to the NFL Network's Adam Schefter, the league should make a decision regarding the appeal of Pacman Jones' suspension later this week.

UPSHAW FIRES BACK

The NFL Players Association produced copies of seven checks sent on behalf of former player Brian DeMarco for $9,748.81 in the last nine months after DeMarco appeared at a Chicago news conference and on Chicago television Monday to claim he was getting no help from the union for what he called crippling disabilities.

"No one in my office could believe this was the guy they were talking about," said NFLPA executive director Gene Upshaw on Monday night. "We've been taking care of this guy."

DeMarco, 35, former offensive lineman for Jacksonville and Cincinnati, appeared at Mike Ditka's restaurant as part of an ongoing effort by "Gridiron Greats" to help retired players in dire need.

Gridiron Greats was started by former Green Bay guard Jerry Kramer, who enlisted Ditka's help. While Upshaw pointed to the emergency aid provided DeMarco, Jennifer Smith, executive director of the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund, told the New York Times that DeMarco's main concern was not the emergency assistance the union had provided, but the long-term medical costs that he would face throughout his life.

"The dire-need funds have nothing to do with long-term disability," Smith said. "He has sent in four different disability forms that have never been addressed by the NFLPA and we had heard a variety of excuses for what has happened to those forms. Brian has never been assigned an NFL doctor for evaluation for disability, nor has a case file ever been opened for him."

Source: Chicago Tribune

With training camp six weeks away, the Bears are healing up nicely as two key defensive players returned to the field for organized team activities Monday.
Tackle Tommie Harris and cornerback Charles Tillman finally were cleared after surgeries and participated in team drills at Halas Hall. It's a sign that both should be at full strength when the defending NFC champions report to Bourbonnais, Ill., next month.

Harris underwent surgery in December to repair a torn tendon in his left hamstring, and Tillman had back surgery in February to repair a disc.

''Dr. [Dan] Cooper said I might be faster the way they tightened it up,'' said Harris, who ran sprints after practice. ''My explosion felt good. I wasn't even pushing it hard yet, so I'm fine.''

Tillman is coming off a season that was worthy of a Pro Bowl trip and is entering a contract year, as is fellow corner Nathan Vasher.

''By the time we get to camp, I'll be where I need to be,'' Tillman said. ''I don't think this will hinder me. It feels good shaking a little rust off.''

Offensive tackle John Tait continues to do work on the side after ankle surgery, but rookie cornerback Corey Graham was worked into the mix some. Graham had been on the side while recovering from a broken leg.

The Bears are expected to take care of another area with an injury concern by signing fullback Obafemi Ayanbadejo today. The older brother of linebacker and Pro Bowl special-teams performer Brendon Ayanbadejo, Obafemi was released by Arizona last week and participated Monday on a tryout basis.

He will take a physical today and is expected to get a minimum-salary-benefit contract. He would replace J.D. Runnels, who has been waived/injured after tearing the ACL in his left knee Thursday.

Source: Chicago Sun Times

ROGERS IN TROUBLE

Lions defensive tackle Shaun Rogers -- arguably the team's best player -- is being investigated for allegedly groping a woman in her dressing room at a Detroit strip club.

Maria Miller, a spokeswoman for the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, said her office received a request for an arrest warrant from Detroit police Monday. No charges have been issued.

"We will proceed as usual, interviewing the alleged victim and any other potential witnesses," Miller said.

GREEN CONTRACT

Trent Green will make $6 million this season, with an extra $2.45 million available in incentives. He's scheduled to make $13.5 million if he sticks around for three years.

MCNABB PRACTICES

Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb participated in practice today at Eagles minicamp, a huge surprise to onlookers and even teammates. McNabb came out for the start of today’s practice and took about 12 or 15 reps with the first-team offense during the late-morning session at the NovaCare Complex.

McNabb hadn’t practiced since he tore up his knee during the Eagles’ game against the Titans last Nov. 19. He underwent reconstructive surgery a few days later and has been rehabbing since.

McNabb made all the throws and even ran once, looking comfortable. After about 20 minutes, he headed back inside for more treatment. Practice is still ongoing and it’s not clear whether McNabb will continue to practice during the next three days of this camp, which is technically a voluntary OTA and not a mandatory minicamp, although the Eagles have all signed players here and working.

“He looked great,” offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said. “You couldn’t tell he was hurt.”

McNabb refused to comment after practice, instead telling the team’s PR department to issue a prepared statement.

“It felt great to get back out there on the field with all of the guys,” the statement read. “It’s just part of the rehab process and hopefully good things will continue to come. It is important to continue to monitor my progress, but also be smart about the whole situation.”

Source: Philly Burbs

MICHAEL GRIFFIN UPDATE

Titans rookie DB Michael Griffin may be moved back to safety following the signing of Kelly Herndon.

DARWIN WALKER UPDATE

The Associated Press reports the Buffalo Bills are ready to move on without DL Darwin Walker after both sides failed to reach a new contract prior to the start of the team's minicamp Monday, June 11. "We'd like to have him," general manager Marv Levy said. "But if he's not going to be here, we'll go on without him. That's all it amounts to."

BRODNEY POOL UPDATE

Steve King, of ClevelandBrowns.com, reports Cleveland Browns SS Brodney Pool has been working with the first-team defense at free safety during offseason workouts and stands a good chance of being the team's starter at the position.

PANTHERS UPDATE

AROUND THE FIELD IN CAROLINA

Quarterback: Although he's 32, Jake Delhomme has a young NFL body. He spent two years in NFL Europa but saw little action in five years with the New Orleans Saints. Compare that to backup David Carr, 27, who was sacked an NFL-high 249 times in five years as the Houston Texans starter.

Running back: DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams combined to rush for nearly 1,400 yards last season. Their production should only rise behind a healthy line. But both need to stay healthy; they missed a combined five games last year.

Wide receiver: Steve Smith has averaged 14.3 yards a catch in his career and remains the best big-play threat. People like to knock rookie Dwayne Jarrett's speed, but he has a knack for making plays and is a large target. Delhomme says fourth-round pick Ryne Robinson "looks like he has some juice in his tank."

Tight end: Michael Gaines and Jeff King will compete for snaps, but both should see action in new coordinator Jeff Davidson's offense.

Offensive line: Left tackle Travelle Wharton has recovered from a season-ending knee injury sustained in September. Left guard Mike Wahle played most of last season with a bum shoulder and missed the final month, but he's healthy now, too. Jordan Gross, who started 15 games at left tackle, returns to the right side. Justin Hartwig, Geoff Hangartner, Evan Mathis and rookie Ryan Kalil will fight for jobs.

Defensive line: Julius Peppers has averaged 11½ sacks a season the last three years. The team shopped tackle Kris Jenkins before the draft, looking for a No.1 pick, but had no takers. The Panthers like his backup, Damione Lewis. Maake Kemoeatu is the other tackle. Mike Rucker will face stiff challenges for his job as he battles age while recovering from a torn knee ligament.

Linebacker: Carolina's defense was never the same after losing middle linebacker Dan Morgan to a concussion in Week 1. The Panthers drafted third-year man Thomas Davis as a safety, but he's emerged as a force as an outside linebacker. Expect first-round draft pick Jon Beason to start on the weak side.

Secondary: Cornerbacks Chris Gamble, Ken Lucas and Richard Marshall may be the league's best troika. The problem is safety, the team's weakest position. Mike Minter enters his 11th and final season. Nate Salley, a 2006 fourth-round pick, is the favorite to win the strong safety job. Don't be surprised if the Panthers bring in a veteran before training camp begins.

Special teams: Carolina finished last in kickoff- and punt-return average last season. Robinson should boost those numbers. Kicker John Kasay enters his 17th year and remains reliable. He made 24 of 27 attempts last year. Punter Jason Baker ranked third in the NFL with a 45.7-yard average.

Coaching staff: John Fox begins his sixth year with Carolina; he is 49-38 and has taken his team to the Super Bowl once and the NFC title game twice. Davidson is a Charlie Weis disciple. He served as the Cleveland Browns interim offensive coordinator for the last 10 games of 2006. Defensive coordinator Mike Trgovac has been in this role since 2003.

Outlook: New Orleans will be the favorite to win the NFC South. But if the Panthers' offensive line can stay healthy — and after last year, they're due — then they should be in the playoff mix. A 12-win season is within the realm of possibility.

Source: USA Today

STEELERS UPDATE

Voluntary or not, two-hour time limit or not -- new Steelers coach Mike Tomlin wouldn't have scheduled the 14 workouts (officially known as organized team activities) if they weren't important. Under the guise of the workouts being much ado about nothing, Tomlin has been installing a new offense and tweaking the defense in preparation for training camp. Nearly 100 percent participation speaks volumes about how the Steelers feel about their new coach. They don't have to like him, just respect him. They respect him, all right. If not respect for their coach, the Steelers understand that by participating they at least present a united front that they care.

RAMS UPDATE

Only five of 13 defensive linemen on the Rams' current roster boast more than one year of NFL experience. The eight others include five rookies — draft picks Adam Carriker, Clifton Ryan and Keith Jackson, plus free agents Alton Pettway and Ryan Willis. Second-year coach Scott Linehan might not seem like a gambler, but he's ready to roll the dice in this vital area. "We've kind of taken a leap of faith with some of these younger players," he acknowledged. The No. 1 challenge for the Rams defensively is improving against the run. They were 31st in the 32-team league in that category last year and ranked no higher than 15th in any of the past five seasons. During that span, their overall record was 42-41. In contrast, the Rams were the best in the league vs. the run in 1999, when they won the Super Bowl. They were No. 3 two years later, when they lost in the title game. Their combined record those two seasons was 32-6.

Source: Ben Maller

TRAVARIS JACKSON UPDATE

While Vikings coach Brad Childress doesn't have any choice but to say good things about Tarvaris Jackson, and he has confidence in Jackson, at the same time he also praises Brooks Bollinger. However, there are some Vikings players who believe that Jackson's lack of experience will make it tough for him to do the job and that Bollinger's experience will give him a better-than-average chance to be the No. 1 quarterback.

CHAD SCOTT UPDATE

Based purely on practice, if the Patriots season started tomorrow, veteran Chad Scott likely would be the starter at CB. He took the most reps with the first defense, playing on Asante Samuel’s left side while Ellis Hobbs stayed on the right, where he played most of last year. “I’m comfortable wherever they put me,” Hobbs said. “Obviously, I’m used to staying on one side or the other, but I’m a professional. Whatever environment they put me I have to adapt or I’ll be exposed.”

Source: Ben Maller

CULPEPPER UPDATE

The Miami Dolphins want to trade Culpepper. Culpepper wants to be released so he can work out a deal with the team of his choice. Some Lions fans are piling on because Lions coach Rod Marinelli is not interested in Culpepper. Culpepper tore three ligaments in his right knee during the 2005 season and was traded to Miami. The Dolphins tried to rush him back, and he injured his kneecap and had a second surgery to ease the pain. My guess is he will never be the same. I've spoken to people who say he walks on egg shells and believe he won't be 75 percent of his former self. He won't be able to get push off his legs to throw the long balls that once crushed the Lions. The Lions are right in taking a pass.

Source: Ben Maller

TED GINN UPDATE

The Dolphins saw underwhelming performances from several of their 2006 draft picks last season, but after the completion of minicamp Sunday, Cam Cameron had high praise for two rookies -- Ted Ginn and Samson Satele.

Ginn, the ninth pick in the draft, finished his first minicamp, and spent five practices sharing time as a return specialist and wide receiver since Friday. Satele, selected in the second round (60th overall), took snaps as the starting center.

Ginn is about 90 percent healthy after sustaining a foot sprain five months ago, but that didn't slow him. The former Ohio State standout showed speed as a returner, and routinely breezed past the secondary in passing drills.

''He was everything I thought he was and then some,'' Cameron said.

Cameron, who has a rule about not making comparisons, couldn't help but liken Ginn to a star wide receiver he coached as an assistant at the University of Michigan.

He blurted ''Des-,'' before stopping short of saying Desmond Howard, a Heisman Trophy winner at Michigan who went on to become a Super Bowl MVP with the Green Bay Packers in 1996 and a Pro Bowl player in 2000. Cameron relented and said, ``You mean Desmond . . . there are some legit comparisons.''

Cameron said Ginn's ability to handle returning punts and kickoffs in ''tough weather'' is a major plus, as is his prowess on special teams.

''There are a ton of receivers in this league who have no interest in being that punt returner,'' Cameron said.

He also was struck by how Ginn seems to catch the ball ``so effortlessly.''

Cameron characterized Ginn's development at receiver as a ``work in progress.''

Ginn, who has not spent most of his career as a receiver, needs to work on routes and technique.

''We're trying to make it as hard on him as we can,'' Cameron said. ``We're putting him on the line of scrimmage where he can't move. The worst thing we can do for him is to start moving him around and doing all the stuff where he can get free access.''

Cameron said Satele, a former University of Hawaii offensive lineman, demonstrated grit. In the past week, Cameron said Satele had five root canals, something this 6-3, 300-pounder didn't initially reveal.

''He never flinched, never said a word,'' Cameron said. ``I have never been around a guy that practiced a whole practice with one root canal. One thing we know is he is smart and he's tough, which goes a long way at that position. We're very pleased with his progress.''

DARBY PUSHING PITTMAN

TAMPA - Cadillac Williams may be the Bucs' feature running back, but as he prepares for his third NFL season he's still not an every-down back.

Williams currently heads to the sidelines in favor of Michael Pittman on a lot of third-down plays and the time may come soon when he's surrendering some of those critical third-down snaps to newcomer Kenneth Darby.

Though he wasn't drafted until the seventh round, Darby seems to have all the makings of a productive third-down NFL back. The Bucs think so, anyway.

Their coaches are comparing him to a young Aaron Stecker. While that's not the kind of comparison that will excite anyone, it's not a knock either. Stecker is, after all, a very valuable commodity.

He's one of those guys who lacks the ability to be a feature back, but usually finds a way to get you that first down when you need it.

Darby, who probably would have been drafted a lot higher had he not had such a miserable senior season at Alabama, is the same kind of player. He's smart, tough and versatile.

"And he's only going to get better," Bucs running backs coach Art Valero said. "I mean, he's one of those guys that does everything very well and those are the kinds of guys that can help you in a lot of ways."

Source: Tampa Tribune

CFL UPDATE

Calgary of the Canadian league continues to add to its haul of reasonably well-regarded undrafted rookie free agents signing former Hampton CB Calvin Bannister over the weekend. Earlier the Stampeders had signed Canadian-born RB Jon Cornish of Kansas, arguably the top-rated undrafted RB this year, along with Western Michigan QB Ryan Cubit. Meanwhile, according to John Murphy of Yahoo Sports, the Stampeders also signed Eastern Arizona Junior College CB Brandon Stewart who will not be NFL draft eligible until 2008.

JOSEPH ADDAI UPDATE

The Colts have steadfastly maintained their desire to retain last year's running back rotation system, this time manned by 2006 first-round draft pick Joseph Addai and most likely either DeDe Dorsey or Kenton Keith.

But even if Addai splits the duty, he may very well be seeing more work overall. Indianapolis coaches have been toying with the idea of using him more in the team's pass offense. After watching Addai catch a game-high 10 passes for 66 yards in the team's Super Bowl XLI win over Chicago, the decision shouldn't come as too much of surprise to anybody.

"It's a real credit to Joe for being here this whole off-season," Manning said. "I think that's where he's really tried to expand his game. As far as maybe putting him in the slot or putting him out wide, he's worked on his [pass] route running. To me, that's important. The running part, he's got that in pretty good shape. But he's saying ‘how can I get better?'

"I think he had 10 catches against the Bears in the Super Bowl. And [former Colts running back] Dominic [Rhodes] had a bunch too. So it's been a huge part of our passing game this past year. And hopefully that can continue, especially with Joe and hopefully DeDe. You like to get those kind of matchups with them on linebackers, who probably aren't as good as cover guys as safeties and corners. That would be a good matchup for us."

Source: Tom James, Terre Haute Tribune-Star

ANTHONY GONZALEZ UPDATE

Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning has been putting in extra time working one-on-one with his new rookie receivers, first-round pick Anthony Gonzalez and fifth-rounder Roy Hall. Manning speaks highly of Gonzalez in particular, saying "I think it's important to spend some time with the young guys one-on-one and try to give them the ins and outs of our offense. But you kind of know what you're going to get with Gonzalez. He's made a lot of plays in college."

"Peyton likes new people," Colts coach Tony Dungy confirmed Thursday. "He's taken these new guys, just like he did some of our guys last year. He'll do that all the time. He understands that's what football is all about. [It's] bringing people in and getting them ready to go so that when you need them, they're ready.

"And we had that situation last year, not necessarily with the receivers, but with some of our offensive linemen and tight ends and [running back] Joseph Addai. So you want to get those guys ready to go as quick as possible. And he [Manning] believes in that. He's going to help those guys as much as he can."

Source: Tom James, Terre Haute Tribune-Star

ROMO TWEAKS MECHANICS

"Yeah, I've changed my mechanics a little bit," Tony Romo said with a smile. "It's nothing big. But yeah, I've worked on a few things to try to get better. So, that's something that's different."

While that is the case for Romo, he's also playing along with the media and the notion that his off-the-field activities which have garnered much attention as of late are affecting his personality, and even more importantly, his play on the field.
But Romo has said all along that shooting commercials, competing in golf tournaments or even socializing with bigger superstars than himself won't cut into his day job.

Apparently, it hasn't cut into his time.

"Well, he's here all the time," Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips said of Romo. "He's here extra. I mean, all of them have their own lives. These are grown men. But I've seen him here probably more than anybody else we have. So I believe in his commitment."

"It's football. It's competition," said Romo, who attended all 11 OTA (Organized Team Activity) practice sessions and doesn't plan on missing any of the voluntary mini-camp practices this weekend. "I just like to come out here and compete and get better. And we're learning a lot out here. I just don't know why you wouldn't be out here. I really think I've gotten better because of it. So that's exciting."

Romo said he was also excited to see full attendance for Friday's mini-camp practices, including starting receivers Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn, whose attendance at the OTA practices has been inconsistent.

"Well, it was good to have all those guys out there," Romo said. "But I have confidence in those guys. I've never really worried about that. Honestly, I think it's easier for these receivers to learn the offense. All they have to do is listen for their number (in the huddle) and they know what they're doing."

"It's a tough combination to have a strong arm, with a quick release," Romo said. "So I've always tinkered with the idea of how do I maintain both. This off-season, I'm trying to find ways to do both. But that's nothing new. I change my mechanics probably every year. What I've learned is there's always a way to get faster with your release."
Has it worked?

Obviously, it's too early to tell, considering the Cowboys are still running around in shorts and T-shirts.
"But I'm feeling like I'm throwing the ball better than I ever have," Romo said.

KELLEN WINSLOW UPDATE

The Cleveland Browns have an interest in bringing back TE Aaron Shea, who remains in the area after spending one season in San Diego. Shea is recovering from a back injury that kept him on the Chargers' injured reserve list for all of 2006. The interest in Shea fuels more speculation about whether TE Kellen Winslow Jr. will be available for the start of training camp.

Source: Tony Grossi, Cleveland Plain Dealer

ROY WILLIAMS UPDATE

Dallas Cowboys safety Roy Williams is upbeat and excited about his new role in head coach Wade Phillips' version of the 3-4 defense. Williams will be closer to the line of scrimmage in Phillips' new scheme. Instead of lining up 15 yards deep as he did the past few years under Bill Parcells, he will play only seven yards deep. The move should result in more opportunities for Williams to make impact plays in the backfield.

Source: Clarence E. Hill Jr., Fort Worth Star-Telegram

ASANTE SAMUEL UPDATE

New England Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel says he doesn't feel the team is treating him fairly in discussions concerning a contract extension. Samuel is currently horse-collared with the franchise tag that would pay him $7.79 million for a one-year contract, though he has yet to sign it. Samuel continues his stance to holdout for a longterm deal, though based on some of the numbers that have been discussed, the gap between them is enormous.

Source: Mike Reiss, Boston Globe

WESTBROOK SPEAKS OUT

Nick Fierro, of The Trenton Times, reports Philadelphia Eagles RB Brian Westbrook prefers the game plans that were used after QB Donovan McNabb tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in November. Westbrook said, "I hope that we run the ball more, but there's really no guarantee. Different games call for different things. If you're down by 15, 14 or 21 points before the half, you're going to throw the ball. In some games, we were down by that margin. We have to find a way to keep our defense off the field and keep our offense on the field. I think we did it effectively last year at the end of the season by running the ball."

JON BEASON UPDATE

The Panthers are hoping that rookie LB Jon Beason, the former Miami star, can start right away on the outside, and provide important insurance with oft-injured Dan Morgan in the middle. "Well, with any rookie, you bring him along as fast as they're capable," Fox said. "It doesn't matter what the coaches know, it's what the player knows. It's too early to say how fast we're going to bring him along at this point. But we'll give him all he can handle." Beason has been working behind starter Na'il Diggs at OLB during this month's optional workouts.

Source: Associated Press

JAY MOORE UPDATE

San Francisco 49ers 4th round pick, 6'-4", 272 lb rookie Jay Moore out of Nebraska, has been converted from defensive end to linebacker. "There will be some change for him, some new things he hasn't done in the past," 49ers coach Mike Nolan said. "But he's a big, athletic guy who can run, so I'm looking for him to be able to handle the transition." Moore has been taking repetitions primarily behind outside linebacker Manny Lawson during the first of three weeks of OTA's.

Source: Dennis Georgatos, InsideBayArea.com

CRAIG DAVIS UPDATE

San Diego Chargers first-round draft pick WR Craig Davis returned to the field Friday, after previously missing practices while he nursed a sore groin. Head coach Norv Turner likes what he's seen. "He looks really good to me," Turner said. "He's not 100 percent. We're going to be careful with him but we're going to get him some reps each practice, get him some work and just see if we can get him through this thing practicing each session."

Source: Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

FINN INJURED

Giants HC Tom Coughlin revealed on Friday that the reason for FB Jim Finn's absence from OTAs was due to an injured shoulder sustained late last month during workouts. Finn, who had shoulder surgery after the 2005 season, was examined by team physician Russ Warren and recently sought a second opinion from a West Coast doctor, though the results of both examinations are unclear at this point.

Source: Mike Garafolo, Newark Star-Ledger

DALLAS COWBOYS UPDATE

Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett confirmed after Friday's practice that he would be calling the plays in 2007. Several players have noted that Garrett likes to throw the ball down field more than in the previous offensive scheme.

"I do like that about him," receiver Terry Glenn said. "He seems like more of a down-to-earth, young-generation type coordinator. He seems like he's fresh, young and opened-minded."

"I think he can do the job," coach Wade Phillips said of Garrett. "It's kind of like when I was a first-time coordinator in New Orleans. I felt like I could do that job or I wouldn't have been named the coordinator. We ended up leading the league in several categories there and hopefully the same thing will happen with Jason."

GANNON VISITS VIKES

At the invitation of Minnesota Vikings HC Brad Childress, retired NFL quarterback Rich Gannon observed a 90-minute practice Friday and left with a handful of notes and a generally positive review of the team's situation behind center. Gannon will continue working informally with all of the team's quarterbacks next week. "It's all about reps with young quarterbacks," Gannon said. "And that's what I saw him [Tarvaris Jackson] getting today. Not only that, but being put in different situations. All of the quarterbacks, I think they did a nice job today of adjusting to those situations."

Gannon retired to the Twin Cities area in 2005. "He's got a great thing that he goes through in terms of snap-to-snap preparation," Childress said. "He's welcome any time he wants to come out here. ... I value his opinion. I got a chance to know him at the Pro Bowl and obviously he has taken one or two snaps in this league. It hasn't changed that much since he played."

Source: Kevin Seifert, Star Tribune

DETROIT LIONS UPDATE

Last year I felt good about the locker room, but there was an undertow that you couldn't necessarily put your finger on," Kitna said Friday after the Lions concluded their spring workouts with an open practice at Detroit Renaissance High. "I think we've rid ourselves of that, of the undertow."

The Lions spent the winter shedding themselves of veterans like Dre Bly, James Hall and Mike Williams. In their place, second-year coach Rod Marinelli targeted high-character acquisitions that Kitna said have made the locker room a better place.

"The credit goes to Marinelli," said receiver Mike Furrey, the NFC's catch leader of a year ago. "I think what he did last year was he was going to take everybody in this locker room and he was going to challenge them to the deepest that they could get to and if you were going to survive you were going to be here and if you didn't survive you weren't going to be here. You were messing up the chemistry of this team.

"There's a trust factor in this locker room now that was not here at all last year. There was different segments and groups all around the locker room and now it's one group and one team. It all looks good right now."

Said Kitna, "It was different in Cincinnati because you just felt like it was a whole organizational thing. Here you just feel like, for whatever reason, it's been kind of in the locker room, and now the consistency we're getting from the top down here, that's great.

"From ownership on down, I think the organization here is much more solid and sound than what was going on with Cincinnati."

Source: David Birkett, Oakland Press

HERNDON SIGNS WITH TITANS

John Clayton, of ESPN.com, reports free-agent CB Kelly Herndon (Seahawks) has accepted a three-year contract to play for the Tennessee Titans. Financial terms were not available, but his salary was substantial enough to be a consideration for the starting job and at worst to be the team's third cornerback.

DAUNTE ISSUES PR

Daunte Culpepper handed out press releases to the media Saturday describing his situation with the Dolphins. Culpepper described his "dream" of playing for the 'Fins as a "nightmare" and has gotten the NFLPA involved. Coach Cam Cameron, attempting to downplay the issue, says he's prepared to take Culpepper to training camp.

OCHO CINCO BEATS HORSE

The horse broke clean from the gates and bore down at full sprint upon the finish line, 1/8 of a mile in the distance.

But the horse didn’t have a chance. The human being in the other lane, Chad Johnson, took off with a 100-meter head start and raced to the pole, winning by several lengths in his maiden turf start today.

The estimated crowd of 8,000 at River Downs roared its approval for Johnson, the Bengals wide receiver who said his runaway win would jump start his side career in doing sporting stunts for charity.

WATCH IT:
http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?Date=20070609&Category=VIDEO02&Lopenr=70609012&Ref=AR

AL WILSON UPDATE

Whether Al Wilson will play this season remains uncertain. He has been contacted by several teams, but he has yet to receive medical clearance to play, according to the Denver Post.

SUPPLEMENTAL DRAFT NEWS

Vinny DiTrani, of the Bergen Record, reports the New York Giants appear to be more interested in Nebraska OL Chris Patrick than Georgia CB Paul Oliver in next month's supplemental draft. The team will not likely sped a high 2008 NFL Draft pick on either player.

ALEXANDER SPEAKS TO FANTASY OWNERS

Alexander said fantasy football fans were panicking after he said in May that his foot might still be broken. "Some people were pulling me over on the side: 'Should I pick you?' I am like, 'You are in good shape. We are going to be all right,'" Alexander said. Alexander might always have a crack in his foot, but doctors determined the risk of him breaking through the relatively small fissure is remote. He said he didn't realize his previous remarks were going to leave the wrong impression.

CARTER NOT JARRETT

The Charlotte Observer believes Drew Carter, not rookie Dwayne Jarrett, will be the Panthers' starter opposite Steve Smith when the season begins.

NEWS & NOTES

*Lions offensive coordinator Mike Martz has changed Drew Stanton's throwing motion and grip on the football.

*Lions coach Rod Marinelli acknowledged Friday that Kevin Jones (foot) and Brian Calhoun (torn ACL) are candidates to begin the year on PUP

*Craig Davis suffered a groin tear at LSU's Pro Day on March 14.

PATS INK DL PAIR

Adding depth to their defensive line, the Patriots signed veteran free agents Rashad Moore and Kenny Smith yesterday. Both players have some background in defensive systems similar to the Patriots' 3-4 alignment.

Moore played in 13 games for the Jets under former Patriots assistant Eric Mangini last season, and at 6 feet 3 inches and 325 pounds, will compete for time at nose tackle behind Vince Wilfork. He was drafted in the sixth round by the Seahawks in 2003 and has played in 48 career games (18 starts).

The 6-4, 303-pound Smith, who was out of football in 2006, spent time with the Raiders in 2005 under former Patriots assistant Rob Ryan before being placed on injured reserve. Smith, 29, enters his sixth NFL season and was a third-round draft choice of the Saints in 2001. He's played in 30 career games (10 starts).

KUBIAK ON SCHAUB

They were somewhere around the third tee when Matt Schaub began to poke fun at Gary Kubiak's golf game.

"I'm thinking, 'This is my kind of guy,' " Kubiak said.

Sometimes it's the oddest things that impress a potential employer. In that single remark, Kubiak saw something he liked in the man he was trying to envision as his new quarterback.

"He said he thinks he deserves the same opportunity, and that he thinks he's ready for it," Kubiak said. "There are a lot of backups in this business who say they want to be a starter. Maybe in the back of their mind, they don't really believe it. That's not Matt. He asked a lot of system questions. In a lot of ways, he was asking me, 'How much do you know about me? What are my strengths as a player? What do you feel like we'll be offensively?' That was his way of saying, 'I know you've done your homework on me. Now tell me what I do best.' That was impressive to me."

As the Texans finish their first round of on-the-field drills, the Kubiak-Schaub partnership is coming along. Schaub carries himself with a confidence that has rubbed off on everyone. In the end, it will come down to making plays in games, but for now, the Texans couldn't be more impressed.

"He's everything I thought he'd be and more," Kubiak said. "He's very comfortable with people. His asset is composure. He gets rid of the ball extremely quick. Matt has a clock in his head to get rid of the football. You can't teach that. ... We've already thrown a lot at him, and it looks like he has total control."

Source: Houston Chronicle

SHOCKEY MOUTHS OFF

June 9, 2007 -- Jeremy Shockey said he doesn't understand why anyone makes the slightest fuss about him working out in Miami instead of joining the vast majority of his teammates at Giants Stadium.

"I hope people just get used to it, because next year it's going to be the issue again," Shockey said yesterday.

The Giants have had seven Organized Team Activity practices thus far this offseason and Shockey on Thursday showed up for the first time. He'll be on the scene for Monday's final OTA and be on the field for next week's three mandatory mini-camp practices.

The 26-year-old tight end has a problem with anyone who views his non-participation in the offseason workout program as a sign he is self-centered, uncaring about the team or the pleas of Eli Manning and Tom Coughlin.

"I think it's like a slap in my face when people think I'm trying to do something that betters myself and no one else," Shockey said. "First thing first, I have to take care of myself in order to better this team. I'm not out drinking every night, going out every night, and if I do, I guarantee you I'm working out the next day.

"Just the fact people question how I work and questioning my character as a person really hurts me, because I play hurt. I want to win a championship for this organization and it just seems no matter what I can do it's not good enough for the people up in this area."

Source: Paul Schwartz, NY Post

ALEX BROWN MARKET

According to NFL Network's Adam Schefter, the Seahawks are one of three teams that are interested in a possible trade for the Bears DE Alex Brown. The Chiefs and Titans are also considering a trade, and the Bears reportedly want a second-round pick in return.

GIANTS LT UPDATE

Coach Tom Coughlin has yet to officially name a left tackle to replace veteran Luke Petitgout, who was released in the offseason.

David Diehl, normally a guard but a player who can play any of the positions on the line, shifted to left tackle when injuries forced the Giants to shuffle positions and is seen as the likely choice. New York is also looking at sixth-round draft choice Adam Koets and 2006 fourth-round pick Guy Whimper, and this week signed veteran lineman Zach Piller, formerly of Tennessee.

Coughlin said he would wait until training camp before he made a final decision.
"We will go into training camp working like we are right now, giving different people opportunities at different positions," he said. "That won't affect Diehl at all. You can put him in any kind of spot and after a period of time he'll be comfortable. There'll be a time to make the right decision, and I'll make it at that time."

Source: AP

CHANSI STUCKEY UPDATE

By the end of his college career, he was considered one of the elite receivers in the ACC. Now New York Jets rookie WR Chansi Stuckey is earning the respect of his new set of coaches and teammates in the NFL. "What I like about Chansi is he's got very good short-area quickness, and that's what we liked in college and that's what we're seeing here," head coach Eric Mangini said.

Stuckey was asked where you'd find him when he was off the field, he said: "In my room studying," he said. "I just got to try and get into the playbook. It's going to take a while to fully understand everything. Every chance you get, you've got to try to put your head in the playbook."

TRENT GREEN UPDATE

Trent Green had already looked at about an hour of film from recent Dolphins practices by the time he was introduced at a press conference on Thursday, and he already feels comfortable in the offense he'll be running in Miami. "It's probably about 80-85 percent the same terminology [as Kansas City's]" Green told the Miami Herald of the system being installed by Cam Cameron. "It's like how part of the country calls it 'soda' and part of it calls it 'pop.'"

PETE KENDALL UPDATE

Guard Pete Kendall will show up at next week's minicamp despite being unhappy about his contract situation, reports the Newark Star-Ledger. Kendall has skipped all of the Jets offseason program because he believes he's underpaid.

'08 PROSPECT SUSPENDED

Nebraska WR Maurice Purify, a second-tier prospect for the 2008 draft has been suspended indefinitely from the team after being arrested on suspicion of drunken driving. It was Purify's second run-in with law enforcement this spring.

DAUNTE BROKE OFF TALKS WITH JAGS

Mike Dempsey at 1010 XL Radio in Jacksonville reports that the Jaguars and Daunte Culpepper spoke Thursday night about possibly restructuring his contract.

At some point during the process, it appears that Culpepper decided Jacksonville would not be the best fit for him and decided not to restructure his deal. He is now demanding his release. A failure to negotiate will probably kill any deal to the Jaguars. One has to think Culpepper has another team lined up.

VIKINGS SCOUTING UPDATE

Minnesota has hired George Paton as director of player personnel. Paton had previously worked with Rick Gilliam, the Vikings’ V.P. of player personnel in Miami. Paton will oversee the pro side of the personnel department, a job that has been vacant for several years. Scott Studwell will remain director of college scouting, reporting directly to Spielman. The Vikings also hired Scott Kuhn, another former Dolphin, as a pro scout, while Frank Acevedo, who has been a pro scout with the Vikings, will move into a college scouting role. Meanwhile, the status of two current Vikings’ scouts remains in limbo. Frank Gilliam, who joined the organization in 1970 and served as a regional scout last season, says he wants to pursue what are described as other opportunities, although he could return to the team in a consultant's role. The same goes for pro scout Paul Wiggin, whose situation has not been finalized.

CULPEPPER UPDATE

Adam Schefter of NFL Network reports that the exit of quarterback Daunte Culpepper from the Dolphins' practice field had nothing to do with his status, and that he currently is a member of the team.

Schefter also says that Culpepper wasn't taken off the field by the team, and that Culpepper won't be released this weekend or "anytime soon," but that he could be traded at any moment.

DAUNTE ESCORTED OFF FIELD

Daunte Culpepper was escorted off the field by Stu Weinstein, the team’s head of security. That usually means something has transpired. A Dolphins spokesman said he hasn’t been told anything.

Source: Palm Beach Post

BRONCOS TRADE FOR KENNEDY

Broncos acquired defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy from the Rams in exchange for a sixth-round pick

BOWE #1?

"Talk has surfaced" in Kansas City that Dwayne Bowe could challenge for Eddie Kennison's starting job.

WOODLEY/TIMMONS UPDATE

While Steelers second-round pick LaMarr Woodley's development into an outside linebacker has been "unprecedented" during offseason work, first-round pick Lawrence Timmons continues to struggle with a hurt groin.

GARCIA MAN TO BEAT

Jon Gruden basically announced his starting quarterback Friday, saying Jeff Garcia is "Clearly the leader in the clubhouse right now.

TONY HUNT UPDATE

Rookie Tony Hunt is the big back a lot of people think the Eagles have needed for some time. It remains to be seen whether he will have a big impact in his rookie season. Right now, all he has is a chance, which, according to Brian Westbrook, is an improvement over the team's post-draft minicamp a few weeks ago. "I think Tony has progressed a whole lot from that first minicamp," the Eagles' star running back said yesterday. "I was worried a little bit during the first minicamp that he wouldn't pick up the plays fast enough so that he could contribute. But he's come a long way, and he's done a great job now of picking up the plays and understanding a lot of different things."

DARRELLE REVIS UPDATE

Jets first-round pick Darrelle Revis has been a quick study thus far. He's working with the first team at nickel back and is in several different packages. "I think he's what I expected in terms of being physical at the line of scrimmage," Mangini said. "I like the way he has worked with the first group. He has done a nice job in terms of fitting in. Sometimes guys are so caught up in processing the information they can't perform." Said Revis: "You have to learn it (by studying your playbook) if you want to play."

KELLEN CLEMENS UPDATE

Jets backup QB Kellen Clemens, a second-year pro and heir apparent to Chad Pennington, has been erratic during OTAs, but Eric Mangini attributes it to the installation of new plays and experimentation. Raiders castoff Marques Tuiasosopo and rookie free agent Brett Ratliff (Utah) are the other quarterbacks on the roster.

COLTS UPDATE

With each flick of Peyton Manning's right wrist during passing drills Thursday, Indianapolis Colts assistant head coach Jim Caldwell squeezed a "counter.'' Yes, even a two-time NFL Most Valuable Player must adhere to limits. During the Colts' summer school and offseason conditioning program, it's what amounts to a pitch count. "It's Thursday,'' Manning said, "and we might do a little more (throwing) . . . maybe 75 balls. Jim kind of has a number (in mind).'' Caldwell, who has served as the Colts quarterbacks coach since 2002, monitors the workload for all of his QBs. That's been a point of emphasis for Manning the past few seasons. Consider that he's 31, entering his 10th season and has delivered 5,365 passes in 157 regular-season and postseason starts. That doesn't take into account the thousands he has pitched in practice, training camp and the preseason. Caldwell's counter, Manning said, "has made a difference.'' So has an altered practice approach during the season. Manning used to take virtually every snap with the No. 1 offense, but in the past year or two, backup Jim Sorgi has taken some of the repetitions.

Source: Ben Maller

BEARS SHOPPING BROWN

The Chicago Bears now are shopping defensive end Alex Brown. There are no shortage of suitors. Already three teams -- the Kansas City Chiefs, Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans -- each have expressed an interest.

COWHER EYEING RETURN?

Former Steelers coach Bill Cowher did leave the door slightly open for a return to the league. "I'm staying very open-minded," Cowher said. "I never want to say never because that can come back and haunt you. But I can foresee not coming back ever. I just won't etch it in stone." That's good, because Cowher figures to have his choice of jobs come January. If the Redskins don't rebound, coach Joe Gibbs could step aside at 67 with one year left on his contract. Speculation is that Browns coach Romeo Crennel and his New York Giants counterpart, Tom Coughlin, kept their jobs in part so their teams could join the Cowher hunt in 2008. And if Carolina doesn't make the playoffs, coach John Fox could be in trouble with Cowher just down the highway. "Bill's still young," Steelers owner Dan Rooney said. "I wouldn't be surprised at all if he went back into coaching."

Source: Ben Maller

KELLY HERNDON UPDATE

"Free-agent cornerback Kelly Herndon visited the Lions on Thursday, according to agent Peter Schaffer. He also has visited Kansas City and Tennessee, and is scheduled to visit Jacksonville."

GREG ELLIS UPDATE

Nick Eatman, of DallasCowboys.com, reports Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told reporters Thursday, June 7, that he does not plan to meet with LB Greg Ellis. Ellis said, "That pretty much answers all your questions right there. A player that you're serious about keeping, and you don't meet with them? In any kind of job, if you want to keep them around, if that employee has some concern, you meet. I was told by Jerry we were going to have a meeting. I didn't even ask for a meeting. He walked up to me and said, 'Greg we're going to have a sit-down.' And then to tell you guys we aren't going to do that, that's fine with me. But by him saying that, that pretty much answers all the questions. I didn't answer them, I think Jerry answered them."

49ERS UPDATE

Chrissy Mauck, of SF49ers.com, reports San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Nolan said he is not sure how many defensive linemen he will keep for the 2007 season, but said it will at least be five. "You need to have five for sure going into a game, so minimum five, but if you've got a good player, you'll have six, or you'll have seven. If you've got good players on your roster, you keep them. You don't just cut somebody because there are guys who leave the next year and you want to keep good players."

THURMAN CHARGES DROPPED

A pre-warrant hearing application involving Bengals linebacker Odell Thurman scheduled for Friday morning has been canceled.

The two Monticello, Ga., men who made the complaint against Thurman withdrew it late today, David Martin, Thurman’s lawyer, told The Enquirer.

“It’s unfortunate it got to this point,” Martin said.

Asked if Thurman were relieved, Martin said, “Of course.”

No criminal charges were ever filed.

Thurman was scheduled to appear at 11 a.m. in Jasper County, Ga., Magistrate Court.

Two men alleged in the complaint that Thurman had committed acts of criminal trespass, aggravated assault and pointing a gun in the early-morning hours Sunday at a house party in Monticello.

Thurman, under suspension for one season by the NFL for three violations of its substance-abuse policy, is a Monticello native. Monticello is the government seat of Jasper County.

Safara Lawson, Thurman’s Atlanta-based agent, told The Enquirer that the linebacker already has applied for reinstatement and expects to hear from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in July.

Source: Cinconnati Enquire

TED GINN JR UPDATE

Dolphins receiver Ted Ginn Jr., whose selection with the ninth overall pick in the recent NFL draft upset many fans - and, reportedly, some veteran Miami players - practiced with the team for the first time Thursday and will participate in the mini-camp that starts today.

Ted Ginn Sr. said his son, who has been recovering from a left foot sprain that he suffered in the BCS Championship game Jan. 8, is healthy and worked out under the supervision of the Dolphins' medical staff.

Ginn Sr. stopped short of saying that his son, a star at Ohio State who was injured in the title game against Florida, is ready to participate fully in workouts.

"I don't know anybody that is 100 percent after being off for five months," said Ginn Sr., a high school football coach in Cleveland.

In the story on SI.com headlined, Dolphins veterans puzzled by decision to draft Ginn, Holliday was quoted as saying: "With the ninth pick they took a guy who is basically a kick returner - a hurt kick returner. Here we are in June, and he hasn't been in camp yet. Maybe he'll come in eventually and become a better route-runner and make some plays. But I couldn't believe it then, and I can't believe it now."

"My comments were definitely not characterized correctly," Holliday said. "That's not the kind of guy I am. ... I've never been that kind of guy and I'm not about to be that guy."

Source: Greg A. Bedard and Edgar Thompson, Palm Beach Post

JUNIOR SEAU UPDATE

Junior Seau has a cast wrapped in black tape on his right forearm, the same arm he had raised to salute cheering fans minutes after he broke it. As he walked off the field that November day, the 12-time Pro Bowl linebacker didn't know if he'd ever walk back on it in a uniform again.

"You never know," Seau said, sweating after a practice with the Patriots this week. "I didn't want to take it for granted and let that pass without saying 'thank you.'"

He completed the Patriots three day minicamp with few restrictions. He chased ball carriers, covered receivers and shared the knowledge he has gained in his 17 NFL seasons with younger players.

"The arm is great," Seau said. "I have a cast on it. We're going to protect it as much as possible and we're just going to roll the dice. It's football."

Source: Howard Ulman, AP

VERNON DAVIS UPDATE

Quarterback Alex Smith and tight end Vernon Davis have been in Santa Clara every day for the last two months during the offseason program. It shows. The two hooked up six straight times in Thursday's OTA practice including once in the end zone during a red zone drill. On the seventh pass, cornerback Nate Clements collared Davis after he dropped a tough chance that was also in the end zone.

"He's growing up where he's doing some things," Nolan said. Like most rookies, Davis was slowed by learning the offense. He had to learn the shifts, the routes and then the changes in the routes based on the coverage.

"There are things you need to know before the snap," Nolan said. "If you don't shift right, you can mess up the play for the whole offense."

MOORE RETIRES

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Dave Moore, who played in more games for the Buccaneers than any player in team history (except for franchise icon Derrick Brooks,) announced his retirement on Thursday and immediately was placed into the broadcast booth as the team's radio color analyst.

'SKINS SIGN CB

The Redskins signed cornerback Jerametrius Butler on Thursday, NFL.com reports. Terms were not disclosed. Butler spent the last six seasons with the Rams.

PACK ROOK INJURED

According to Packers.com, rookie RB Brandon Jackson has a knee injury, but Mike McCarthy expects to have the runner back and healthy by next week.

MIKE VICK SAGA CONTINUES

A new search is underway at the Surry home of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, and it's apparently a surprise to local investigators.

A source close to the ongoing dogfighting investigation says the US Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General has a warrant to search the property.

The warrant is from the U.S. Magistrate's office in Richmond and was issued earlier Thursday.

SEE THE FOOTAGE:
http://www.wvec.com/news/topstories/stories/wvec_local_060707_Vick.252bf371.html

SHAUN ALEXANDER UPDATE

Jose Miguel Romero, of the Seattle Times, reports Seattle Seahawks RB Shaun Alexander (foot) said his left foot is going fine. "I think by the time we get to the season I will be in the best shape of my life. I'll be faster and stronger than ever and hopefully I'll be able to do some good things for our team to win," Alexander said.

QB NEWS

* Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio made it clear in an interview Wednesday that if the team acquired Daunte Culpepper it'd only be to serve as a backup.

* JaMarcus Russell is reportedly outclassing Josh McCown in Oakland OTA practices.

* Cleo Lemon is expected to get a shot to compete with Trent Green to start.

NOLAN TO LIMIT GORE'S CARRIES

After claiming he plans to limit Frank Gore's carries to under 300, 49ers head coach Mike Nolan now says Gore could get 20-25 touches-per-game.

ELLIS FEUDS WITH 'BOYS

Greg Ellis has asked for his release from the Cowboys after owner Jerry Jones said he wouldn't meet with the player.

CLANCY INKS WITH SAINTS

Dave Lawrence, of NewOrleansSaints.com, reports the New Orleans Saints have signed unrestricted free-agent DT Kendrick Clancy (Cardinals) to a three-year deal. Financial terms were not disclosed.

'BOYS CUT RIVERA

The Dallas Cowboys have announced they have released OG Marco Rivera.

BJ MAY RETURN TO PHILLY

Les Bowen, of the Philadelphia Daily News, reports the Philadelphia Eagles may re-sign unrestricted free-agent WR Bethel Johnson at some point.

DAUNTE TO JAGS?

Recent reports on the NFL Network have hinted at Jacksonville as a possible destination for Miami quarterback Daunte Culpepper, whose tenure is in jeopardy now that the Dolphins have traded for Kansas City's Trent Green. While league rules prohibit Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio from commenting about Culpepper, because he is currently under contract with the Dolphins, one thing the coach made clear after organized team activities Wednesday is that the only way Culpepper comes to Jacksonville is as a backup to Byron Leftwich. "We don't rule any players out," Del Rio said. "Obviously, I like our quarterback situation. I've been on record. I've said it countless times."

Source: Ben Maller

HOLCOMB FIGHTING FOR SPOT

The quarterback with the least experience on the Eagles' roster will make it unlikely that Kelly Holcomb sticks around beyond the preseason. Holcomb, who will turn 34 next month, knew he was in trouble when the Eagles decided to use their first pick of the draft to take the University of Houston's Kevin Kolb. The initial focus after that pick was on how starter Donovan McNabb viewed the Eagles' selection of his possible replacement. In truth, Holcomb was far more affected. (Backup A.J. Feeley is in the Eagles' mix at quarterback, too.) "Yes, I've thought about it," Holcomb said when asked about having to join another team if he didn't make the Eagles' roster. "You have to think about it." ... Despite the difficult situation he's in with the Eagles, Holcomb hasn't filed a single complaint. He has been supportive of Kolb and a complete professional on the field.

Source: Ben Maller

LAURENCE MARONEY UPDATE

Pats RB Laurence Maroney appeared at practice for the first time since undergoing offseason shoulder surgery but didn’t do a heck of a lot. While he raced to the front of the line to partake in the morning’s first agility drill, he participated very little thereafter. The most burst he showed came at the end of practice when he sprinted to the locker room and eluded the media. Regardless, some Maroney is better than no Maroney, and his appearance, even if largely for show, suggests he’s on the right track as he rehabs his shoulder. “He’s recovering from surgery and doing the things he needs to do to get back in shape and play with us,” said fellow running back Sammy Morris. “He’s a good guy. He works hard.”

PORK CHOP TO FACE KNIFE

Seahawks offensive lineman Floyd "Pork Chop" Womack will have arthroscopic surgery to repair damaged cartilage in one of his knees. He was injured during practice Tuesday. During the past five seasons, Womack has missed 23 games with hand, ankle, toe, arm, thigh, knee and groin injuries.

Source: Ben Maller

LAWRENCE TIMMONS UPDATE

The agent for Steelers first-round draft pick Lawrence Timmons said he hasn't opened contract negotiations with the Steelers and doesn't expect serious discussions to begin until next month.

"We haven't started yet. My experience is that most negotiations in the first round typically don't kick in until after July 4," said Drew Rosenhaus, who also represents Chicago Bears first-round pick, tight end Greg Olsen. "Not to say we wouldn't start earlier, but, no, we haven't gotten involved yet with any discussions."

None of the 32 first-round draft picks has signed with their teams.

Asked if he wanted to wrap up a deal quickly, Rosenhaus replied, "I don't know that I'd characterize it as saying we have a desire to get it done quickly. The goal is to get a fair deal and to get it done before the start of training camp. "Usually, if you start in early July, you've got plenty of time to get that done. I think that's probably the best way to characterize it."

JONATHAN OGDEN UPDATE

Baltimore's aging OT Jonathon Ogden missed his second straight day of on field activities during the team's mandatory mini camp today.

Ogden, who hyperextended the big toe on his left foot against the Cleveland Browns on Dec. 17 and was sidelined for the final two games of the regular season a year ago, said the toe is healing, but the recovery process has been slow. He said he decided against surgery during the offseason after discussing his options with Dr. Robert Anderson, a foot and ankle specialist in North Carolina and team orthopedist for the Carolina Panthers.

"He kind of just recommended that the tendon was still attached to the bone, so surgery wasn't necessary," Ogden said. "He said it's going to be four to six months for it to really get better."

"We had no anticipation of him being ready for OTAs [Organized Team Activities]," coach Brian Billick said. "Just being around here, we appreciate that Jonathan's here, but our expectations were for him not to be ready to go until training camp, and we may very well adjust that first week of training camp to make sure that we've got a firm footing underneath him."

JAX UPDATE

Coach Jack Del Rio praised quarterback Byron Leftwich's performance in practice on Wednesday, but that didn't keep Del Rio from being asked about media reports linking the Jaguars to Daunte Culpepper.

"I think Byron is poised to have a big year. That's as sharp as I've seen (him)," Del Rio said of Leftwich following Wednesday's practice. "I'm impressed with Byron's approach. I think it's a good start."

The Dolphins are expected to trade or cut Culpepper, after having traded for Trent Green. "NFL Network" speculated the Jaguars might have interest in Culpepper and Del Rio faced the inevitable question following practice on Wednesday. He was obviously referring to Culpepper when he used the words, "a quarterback south of here.

"You can't talk about players on other teams. We're very thorough in our evaluations of other players in the league. Anything we would do in the way of picking up people would be in a supportive role," Del Rio said.

MARSHAWN LYNCH UPDATE

The Bills ground attack took on a greater focus in the team portions of practice with an emphasis on the inside running game. Anthony Thomas and Marshawn Lynch saw the most action, with Lynch making some eye-popping cuts and decisions.

On one off tackle play Lynch froze Ashton Youboty who was trying to hold the outside edge and got caught flat-footed. Lynch quickly darted inside and past the cornerback for what would have been a big gainer in a live football setting.

RANDY MOSS UPDATE

New England Patriots WR Randy Moss believes the problems he's had in the past will disappear now that he's with the the Patriots. "When you're winning, everything's good. When you're losing, everything's bad," Moss said Wednesday after the second day of minicamp. "I love coming to work every single day, just being around these guys." Moss said he expected to fit in well, "Everything you've heard about me, good or bad, some's a lie and some's true," he said. "I want to fit in. Nothing I've ever done in my nine-year career has kept me from fitting in with my teammates."

He sounds like he's thrilled to be there.

"I don't really want to call it a new beginning," he said. "It's something that you dream of, knowing that the New England Patriots sit high on a lot of people's charts. ... It's a great group of guys that we have here on the field and off the field."

But he also made it clear he won't be a regular interview. Which should fit just fine with the Patriots style.

"I don't really like to do interviews because that's not my job. My job is to catch touchdowns and help the team win," he said. "I don't really plan on being too much in front of this mike all year. Take it how you want to take it."

He ended the interview when a reporter asked, "Is it fair to say the Patriots took a risk signing Randy Moss?"

Moss just smiled and said, "Now all the questions were good until he wanna come with that. Y'all take it easy."

JUSTICE HAIRSTON UPDATE

According to BostonHerald.com, RB Sammy Morris was wearing a red non-contact jersey at practice today, as he is still recovering from off-season shoulder surgery. At the moment, rookie Justise Hairston is looking like the #3RB on New England’s depth chart, so if the season started today, he is the guy that would likely have to step up.

NEWS & NOTES

Dennis Northcutt is locked in as the Jaguars' starting slot receiver.

Trent Green passed his physical Wednesday, officially making him a member of the Dolphins.

Chiefs signed S Chad Williams.

Vikings released Maurice Mann.

Bucs released T Chris Colmer.

RAIDERS QB UNDERGOES SURGERY

Andrew Walter underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on Monday and will miss four-to-six weeks. He is expected to be ready for training camp.

PRINTERS TO SEE QB REPS

Chiefs quarterback Casey Printers will see his practice snaps increase following the trade of Trent Green. The club was high enough on him to place Jason Dunn, a key component of the Chiefs' running game, on I.R. prior to Week 17 in 2006 to protect Printers from being picked up. He'll likely earn a roster spot as the third QB.

MIKE VICK UPDATE

Steve Wyche, of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, reports Surry County sheriff Harold Brown said Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Vick may be charged if Brown can find evidence which shows Vick being involved with the illegal dog fighting operation at his former home in Virginia. "People are saying that he was there, Michael Vick was at the residence, and that he was involved. I don't want to get into details of the case right now, but that's what we're looking at. If he was there, then we're going to charge him, also," Brown told The Associated Press.

JEREMIAH TROTTER UPDATE

John Nalbone, of the Trenton Times, reports even though Philadelphia Eagles LB Jeremiah Trotter still has three years left on his contract, he may be playing his final season with the team due to his large upcoming base salaries. Trotter is scheduled to receive a $3.09 million base salary in 2007, $3.16 million in 2008 and $3.72 million in 2009.

ASHLEY LELIE UPDATE

49ers WR Ashlie Lelie is struggling to stay healthy this offseason with a nagging thigh injury. He pulled a muscle in the team's first minicamp practice in early May and never fully recovered. Monday, he tried to workout but his thigh tightened up and he was pulled out. In the meantime reserve receivers Marcus Maxwell and Brandon Williams have been turning heads. Maxwell continues to flourish in NFL Europa while Williams has had a strong minicamp thus far.

JASON HILL UPDATE

San Francisco 3rd round rookie WR Jason Hill (Washington State) has been getting a good look while receivers Ashlie Lelie (thigh) and Darrell Jackson (toe) sit out practices with injuries. Hill could work his way into a starting role, but will have to beat out Lelie and WR Bryan Gilmore at split end.

He was singled out by veteran quarterback Trent Dilfer, the 14-year NFL veteran quarterback and backup to Alex Smith.
"He told me, 'Keep it up, youngster. Keep making plays like that, and we'll throw you the ball,'" Hill said. "My eyes lit up when Trent told me that. As a young guy, that's what you work hard for. I got a little bit of a confidence boost today."

Source: Dennis Georgatos, Contra Costa Times

KENNY IRONS UPDATE

With the likelihood of Cincinnati Bengals running back Chris Perry starting the season on the PUP list, the team is probably going to look to their second-round draft pick, rookie RB Kenny Irons out of Auburn University, to complement Rudi Johnson and Kenny Watson in the backfield.

Irons isn't as big as Perry - Irons weighs 200 pounds, while Perry's ideal playing weight is 220-225 - but he showed in college an ability similar to Perry to extend defenses with his speed and quickness. Irons has impressed the coaching staff with his study habits and performance in practice since he's joined the club, including in last weekend's minicamp, but the real test won't come until the players start wearing pads in training camp and get into the preseason schedule.

"It's so tough to tell how good a running back is because so much of what running backs do is make contact and move on," said quarterback Carson Palmer. "But he's fast, he's quick, he's explosive - he's all of the things you want to see. Now he just needs to get the pads on and see what he's got as far as power and making people miss."

Source: Kevin Goheen, Cincinnati Post

MATHIS MAY BE RELEASED

Alex Jefferson, of the Houston Chronicle, reports Houston Texans WR Jerome Mathis (hamstring) could be released by the team if his hamstring injury is not properly healed in time for training camp. Head coach Gary Kubiak has told Mathis his future with the team is in jeopardy. "He just said that if I want to help this team out, and if I want to have a career - not only here, but anywhere else, period - then I need to get this taken care of," Mathis said.

BEN GRUBBS UPDATE

The offensive line's new look featured Chris Chester working with the first team at right guard, which meant incumbent starter Keydrick Vincent moving to left guard on the second team. First-round pick Ben Grubbs was with the second team at right guard. "I just come in and do my job," said Vincent, a two-year starter for the Ravens. "Wherever they tell me to go, I go."

SAM ADAMS UPDATE

Andrew Mason, of DenverBroncos.com, reports the Denver Broncos would like DL Sam Adams to play at least 28-30 snaps a game.

REGGIE NELSON UPDATE

Michael C. Wright, of the Florida Times-Union, reports FS Reggie Nelson and SS Gerald Sensabaugh will compete for the team's starting free safety spot.

CHRIS BROWN UPDATE

Jim Wyatt, of the Tennessean, reports the Tennessee Titans could eventually re-sign free-agent RB Chris Brown (Titans). The team would like to have Brown back, according to general manager Mike Reinfeldt, although both sides continue to work on a contract. "We would still like him back, and I think deep down he would still like to be back here,'' Reinfeldt said. "It is probably fair to say we both think this would be a good match, but the compensation is still the issue."

O'SULLIVAN SHARP IN EUROPE

Quarterback J.T. O’SULLIVAN of the Chicago Bears, cornerback CARLOS HENDRICKS of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and kicker JARET JOHNSON of the Amsterdam Admirals are the NFL Europa League Offensive, Defensive, and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played the eighth week of the 2007 season (June 2-3), the league announced today.

O’Sullivan’s late-game heroics during the Frankfurt Galaxy’s come-from-behind victory against the Berlin Thunder earned him Offensive Player of the Week honors. With the Galaxy trailing 22-3 with just over nine minutes remaining, O’Sullivan threw for 204 yards and three touchdowns on his team’s final three possessions to secure a 25-22 win. He finished the afternoon with the first 300-yard passing performance in NFL Europa this season, completing 27 of 37 passes for 333 yards, three touchdowns and one interception.

CULPEPPER FIGHTS TO STAY

ESPN.com reports the Miami Dolphins told QB Daunte Culpepper Wednesday, June 6, that they want to trade him after acquiring QB Trent Green from the Kansas City Chiefs Tuesday, June 5. However, Culpepper is resisting the move. "They would like to trade me in order to 'get something for me,"' Culpepper said. "However, it is my position that I have already been down that road and I am not interested in being traded."

JETS SEEKING SAMUEL

FOXBORO - Asante Samuel has a solid case for seeking a cash bonanza from the Patriots: If they won’t pay him what he wants, he knows other teams will.

And one just might be the New York Jets.

According to a source with knowledge of the situation, “several teams” have expressed a willingness to meet Samuel’s asking price, which is a contract in the neighborhood of the eight-year, $80 million deal free agent Nate Clements signed with the 49ers.

The Patriots offered a one-year, $7.79 million franchise tender that Samuel has yet to sign.

The source said the Jets inquired about Samuel, but declined to acknowledge their interest or disclose if it was affected by the NFL draft-day trade that netted Pitt corner Darrelle Revis in the first round.

A second source added that the Patriots are holding firm for the two first-round picks they’d receive as compensation, if Samuel signed an offer sheet and they declined to match.

JEROME HARRISON UPDATE

According to Cleveland.com, RB Jerome Harrison has bulked up 17 pounds this off-season. The 212 pound runner is not expected to lose his speed due to the increased weight. “I still have the same speed, if not faster,” Harrison said about his gained weight.