May 2009 4for4 Player News Articles

Carson Palmer now says he wants to see Chad Ochocinco at the Bengals' offseason program. "He's a damn good receiver -- that's obvious, everybody knows that -- but the guys that are working here and busting their butt here deserve a shot," Palmer said. "But I never once said anything about not wanting him here and not needing him. He's a Pro Bowl receiver."

Terrell Owens made the eye-popping play of the first two weeks of Buffalo Bills spring practice Friday.

The veteran receiver ran a streak down the right sideline in a seven-on-seven drill against second-year cornerback Reggie Corner. The pass from quarterback Trent Edwards looked like it was going to be about 15 yards overthrown, and Corner was side-by-side with Owens about 35 yards downfield. Then Owens turned on his speed and ran under the ball to make a seemingly effortless grab four or five strides past Corner. Even for an inconsequential spring practice, it was an impressive play.

"Oh my God, I was definitely surprised," Corner said. "I actually geared down like it was an overthrow but as you could see he put it in third gear. It was like, wow, he caught me off guard a little bit. He can move."

Percy Harvin was featured at quarterback Saturday during Vikings practice while the team practiced their version of the Wildcat.
Chester Taylor and wideout Darius Reynaud are also getting work at quarterback. The key here is that Minnesota is trying to get Harvin the ball any way possible. They are reportedly installing 20-to-30 plays just for Harvin. If he gets the ball enough as a runner and passer, he could be a valuable fantasy option sooner than later.

Vikings coach Brad Childress said Friday that he hasn't spoken to Brett Favre or agent Bus Cook since last week.
"Nothing has changed," Childress said. SI's Peter King reported earlier in the week that the Vikings want Favre to make a decision one way or another by this weekend. Favre will reportedly have to undergo minor biceps tendon surgery if he's going to play.

Lions released FB Jon Bradley.

Vikings coach Brad Childress defended Tarvaris Jackson's work ethic after DT Pat Williams suggested the quarterback should work harder.
Said Childress: "Tarvaris Jackson is one of hardest working guys you are going to find in this 85-man roster right now. Just in terms of the time he spends here, the time he spends in the books, with the wide receivers, in the weight room, strength and conditioning."

Jets rookie RB Shonn Greene (hamstring) returned to practice Thursday.

Bears signed seventh-round WR Derek Kinder to a four-year contract.

Bears signed fifth-round WR Johnny Knox to a four-year contract.

Rookie TE Cornelius Ingram has resumed practicing at Eagles minicamp.

Joey Galloway is getting most of the reps as the Patriots' third receiver at Organized Team Activities.

Cowboys receivers coach Ray Sherman believes that Miles Austin is "ready to break out" in his third season.
"The guy can play," Sherman said. "The guy is a beast. I've liked him since he came out of Monmouth. He was raw, but you can see it's coming." Austin is currently running behind Patrick Crayton, but the battle won't heat up until training camp. Crayton has the edge now because of his experience.

Brandon Marshall, who formally approached the team about a new deal last week, is in the last year of his rookie contract and has developed into a top-ten NFL receiver. But he's likely facing a suspension to open the season and the new coaching staff hasn't been receptive to individual players' gripes. Predictably, the Broncos "are not willing to redo his deal," according to the Denver Post. Marshall's agent claims that his client is not a holdout, so hopefully this doesn't extend into training camp.

Suspended Bills RB Marshawn Lynch revealed that he's gained 10 pounds this offseason.
"I bulked up to about 230, so I put some mass on," he said. "I'll see how that's going to work." Lynch already lacked breakaway speed at 215, so this won't necessarily be beneficial. He vows that he hasn't "lost a step."

Chris Simms took the Broncos' first-team reps at quarterback Thursday.
Coach Josh McDaniels isn't just handing Kyle Orton the starting job. "Both of them will take reps with the 1's," he said. "They're both doing some good things, and they're both making some mistakes." Asked if they're learning at a rapid pace, the rookie coach responded, "They don't have a choice."

Patriots rookie Julian Edelman's transition from Kent State quarterback to wide receiver has reportedly gone smoothly so far.
Edelman has reportedly "appeared to know his responsibilities, showing quickness and running crisp routes." He's on the roster bubble as a seventh round pick, but Edelman has trick-play value as a potential Wildcat weapon.

Donald Driver skipped Thursday's OTA session.

"Tony is probably the most skilled pass-receiving tight end that I've had an opportunity to be around," McDaniels said. "That's a weapon for us that we can move around on the field. We're going to try to feature him in that role." There has been concern about Tony Scheffler's role because he was on the trade block, but this is a sign the sides have mended fences. We'll see if it's coachspeak, but we still see Scheffler as their third most talented receiver and think he'll find a decent role.

49ers signed sixth-round TE Bear Pascoe to a four-year contract.

Mark Sanchez has reportedly made "significant strides" from last week to this week.
"We're throwing him right to the wolves and I like the way he's responding," said coach Rex Ryan. Sanchez struggled noticeably in 11-on-11 drills last week, but he joked that he's made friends with the late-night cleanup crew because he's been staying so late studying the offense.

Cowboys signed TE Scott Chandler, formerly of the Chargers.

Cowboys signed WR Mike Jefferson, formerly of the Bills.

Greg Camarillo (ACL, meniscus surgery) was "sprinkled in a little bit" during team drills at Dolphins minicamp Thursday.

Ben Watson and Alex Smith are expected to be competing for the same role in the Patriots offense, according to the Globe's Mike Reiss.
Reiss sees Chris Baker locked into a role when New England uses two tight ends, presumably for his blocking skills. Watson and Smith should battle for the other spot, which includes valuable snaps in one tight end sets. Bill Belichick is reportedly "quite excited" about Smith, so Watson could potentially slip to third-string or even off the roster.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh indicated that Demetrius Williams is no longer limited as he recovers from Achilles' and ankle surgeries.
"We're starting to see some of his speed come back," Harbaugh said. "I didn't see him coming back from plays looking like he was favoring his foot as much. It looked to me like he's putting that out of his mind a little bit and just playing." If healthy, Williams should be Baltimore's No. 3 receiver.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh says Todd Heap (back) is getting "close" to returning to team drills at minicamps.

Eagles waived K Sam Swank.

Jamal Lewis is practicing this week at Browns minicamp after undergoing offseason ankle surgery.
The procedure removed bone spurs, just like the surgery Lewis had in Jan. 2007. His buildup of ankle problems, declining ability to turn the corner, age (30 before the season), and cliff-dropping YPC are all red flags for 2009.

Jj Arrington, released by the Broncos on Wednesday, is scheduled to undergo microfracture surgery on his balky right knee.

Broncos released/failed physical RB J.J. Arrington.

Saints signed WR D'Juan Woods, formerly of the Jaguars.

Jets claimed TE Martrez Milner off waivers from the Giants.

Giants DE Osi Umenyiora participated in OTAs Wednesday and said "the pain (from his surgically repaired knee) is basically gone."

Drew Rosenhaus claims on his Twitter page that an unidentified third NFL team "has just expressed serious interest" in his client, Plaxico Burress.
The Jets and Bucs were the first two. It's hard to say who the new team might be -- assuming there is one -- but it's not expected to be St. Louis or Miami. It could be the Bears, whose receivers struggled with drops at minicamps.

As seen on Patriots.com, Tom Brady (ACL, MCL surgery) participated in some forward bag drills and made light drop backs at OTAs Wednesday.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Wednesday that he expects Derrick Mason (shoulder surgery) to "be ready for most if not all of training camp."

Rookie TE Cornelius Ingram suffered what the Eagles are calling a "left knee contusion" on the minicamp practice field Wednesday.

The Texans have reportedly discussing using fifth-round pick James Casey at fullback.

Free agent Deuce Mcallister suggested to a St. Louis radio station that he'd like to play for the Rams.

Browns coach Eric Mangini clarified Wednesday that his starting quarterback job is still up for grabs between Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn.
"Quinn was just the starting rep the starting day," he said. "(Quinn and Anderson) both had exactly the same amount of reps. They have had the exact amount of reps in every practice."

Derrick Mason (shoulder) and Todd Heap (back) are participating in a limited practice this week.

Thomas Jones reported for Jets OTAs Wednesday, as expected

Brian Westbrook (knee) will be eased into a full return to workouts this offseason.

Vikings DT Pat Williams recently called out Tarvaris Jackson, telling the quarterback he has to "put in the time" to improve.
"This ain't college no more. This is the NFL. You have to put in more time than you are used to putting in," the veteran added. Williams' comments are especially noteworthy because Jackson has always enjoyed the support of the locker room even when his play left a lot to be desired. Jackson's abilities seemingly make him a longshot to start, but ESPN's John Clayton believes Jackson is actually the favorite because he has Brad Childress' support.

Bills FB Corey Mcintyre returned to practice Tuesday.

Ravens TE Quinn Sypniewski recently underwent arthroscopic surgery on his knee as a follow up to the original major reconstructive surgery.

Brandon Marshall has begun running for the first time since undergoing hip surgery in late March.
Marshall is expected to be healthy in time for training camp. Surprisingly, there's been no update on a possible suspension for the troubled receiver.

Patriots waived TE Brad Listorti.

A Patriots spokesman confirmed that Tom Brady (ACL, MCL surgery) took the practice field for OTAs on Tuesday.
This comes on the heels of a very positive SI cover story regarding Brady's recovery. Brady is now 8 1/2 months removed from his ligaments tear. QBs typically perform drop backs at this late-May passing camp, but it's unclear if Brady took part in 7-on-7. He may not face any contact before preseason.

The player rep for free agent Matt Jones says the NFL has notified him that Jones will not be suspended for violating a court-mandated drug program in March.
The agent says Jones only has to pay a $50,000 fine. If so, Jones should find work quickly. He's easily the best young receiver on the market. "He caught 65 passes in 12 games last year for the Jaguars and he was their No. 1 receiver," agent Dave Butz pointed out. "If he wasn't hurt one game and didn't have the three-game suspension, he may have caught 80 to 90 balls."

Panthers rookie Mike Goodson is expected to get some looks as a slot receiver during upcoming OTAs.

Franchise player Julius Peppers "almost certainly" will not attend the Panthers' June Organized Team Activities.

Bengals rookie RB Bernard Scott has reportedly shown "a nice burst of quickness" during voluntary workouts.
The same report says Cedric Benson also looks good, so take it with a grain of salt. Still, Scott could be a sleeper if he makes the team. Benson is totally unreliable and Kenny Watson and Brian Leonard won't be hard to beat out.

Anquan Boldin is displeased with the progress of his trade demand and contract talks. Rosenhaus said in a statement that he wants to keep Boldin and hopes that Q "can return to the Rosenhaus Sports family in the near future."

Kellen Winslow has reported to Bucs Organized Team Activities.

Cowboys TE Rodney Hannah is sitting out OTAs due to a broken hand.

Peyton Manning indicated he is upset that the Colts didn't clarify why offensive coaches Tom Moore and Howard Mudd left the team.
Mudd and Moore will supposedly rejoin the team as consultants, but probably won't have major roles in the organization. Manning has been with both since his rookie year, so it's no surprise that he's concerned about their loss.

Bills RB Fred Jackson has been lining up at wide receiver more often this offseason.
Jackson has reportedly been split out wide more often than Roscoe Parrish. If the Bills go forward with their plans for a no-huddle offense, Jackson could see playing time alongside Marshawn Lynch as opposed to a straight backup situation.

New Patriots special teams coach Scott O'Brien hinted that Laurence Maroney is an option to replace Ellis Hobbs as the primary kickoff returner.
As a rookie in 2006, Maroney averaged an impressive 28.0 yards per return on 28 kicks. While it would add to Maroney's value in return yardage leagues, it may also signal that the Pats are not counting on him as the primary running back this season.

Tom Brady reportedly showed no "lingering effects" from knee surgery as he threw passes at Gillette Stadium on Monday.
All signs are positive for Brady, who is expected to participate in OTAs this week with the Patriots.

Maurice Stovall battled neck and hamstring injuries last season, with the latter landing him on injured reserve. The Bucs are thin behind Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton, so Stovall could use this time to push for an offensive role.

SI.com's Peter King writes that he's heard Joey Galloway is still "running in the 4.4s" at age 37.
Speed loss is always a concern for aging wideouts, but it's usually because the receiver gains weight. Galloway is as lithe as ever and his legs should be relatively fresh after hardly playing last year. Still, he's not going to be a consistent producer as a third to fourth option in New England.

Agent Drew Rosenhaus says Thomas Jones will report to OTAs on Wednesday.
"I think the Jets are going to be very impressed when they see what great shape Thomas Jones is in when he joins the team for Wednesday's OTA," Rosenhaus predicts. Jones is looking for a new contract, but he's not getting one.

Terrell Owens is blaming Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett and quarterback Tony Romo for running him out of Dallas.
Answering a fan who said he was unhappy that T.O. left Dallas, Owens tweeted: "Neither ws i, blame the OC & romo!! but i'm happy 2 b where i am but i miss the other guys tht were & r true teammates!!"

SI's Peter King was told the organization won't wait much longer to find out who will be quarterbacking the team this season. Brett Favre will have to undergo a minor operation to fix a biceps tendon that is "hanging by a thread," and he's going to have to do it this week if he wants to play. If so, he could be throwing by the end of June.

Jeremy Shockey, who was at a pool party at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, apparently became so dehydrated that he fell unconscious and needed to be taken to the hospital on a stretcher. It'd be natural to assume that Shockey had a little too much to drink over Memorial Day weekend, but this doesn't appear to be a big deal. Aside from this, Shockey's enjoyed his healthiest offseason in years.

Bucs coaches and players continue to rave about seventh-round WR Sammie Stroughter. "The guy has great feet. He's caught every ball that's touched his hands," said Michael Clayton. "He's a smart guy who's caught onto the offense really well." Stroughter's size and skills make him a perfect fit for the slot, where he's already lining up with the first-team offense.

All of the reports out of Seattle have been positive regarding his throwing and mobility. Still, Matt Hasselbeck's age and the nature of his injury will make him a risky fantasy pick this season.

The Broncos didn't use the No. 12 overall pick on Knowshon Moreno to have him sitting behind aging role players like Correll Buckhalter and Lamont Jordan. Knowshon Moreno will be a focal point of the new offense. Lombardi expects J.J. Arrrington to be released if he doesn't get healthy soon.

Despite the absence of Bengals WR Chad Johnson "Ochocinco", a perennial distraction, QB Carson Palmer has gushed about his cast of pass catchers, which includes newcomer Laveranues Coles, a stellar possession WR asked to fill T.J. Houshmandzadeh's former role, and a pair of second-year wideouts, Andre Caldwell and second-round pick Jerome Simpson. Palmer is also anticipating a breakthrough from former bad-boy wideout Chris Henry, a receiver whose body type closely resembles Randy Moss' and who finally seems to understand that staying out of trouble is the first step toward NFL longevity.

Plaxico Burress' immediate football future should be clarified three weeks from tomorrow at his next court appearance. If Burress manages to avoid jail time and a lengthy suspension from Goodell, then I think the Jets are going to be serious about signing him. It makes sense from a football standpoint. He is exactly what the Jets need. But when you add the knucklehead factor into the equation, the Jets shouldn't even think about keeping him in this market. Players in Burress' situation lack leverage to get much guaranteed money, so the Jets could probably get him without much of a financial commitment. The Bears are monitoring the situation, too. There have been reports that Chicago quarterback Jay Cutler has called Burress. Tampa has also shown interest and is another possibility for Burress.

Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck had been durable throughout his career, and tough enough to play effectively in most cases even when he was injured. And so it probably wasn’t considered such a huge issue after a pass in the first exhibition-season game when he made a pained gesture – the first sign of Hasselbeck’s back problems. Tests later revealed a bulging disk. Everybody downplayed it. HC Holmgren said he had his own bulging disk; he said that everybody who played the game had bulging disks, even the secretaries in the headqarters building had bulging disks. But even when Hasselbeck was on the field, he was rarely effective, as his passer rating plunged from 91.4 in 2007 to 57.8 in 2008. After a fall and winter of rehabbing, Hasselbeck fully understands how important this “offseason” is. “It’s obviously a new system,” he said, citing the scheme put in place by new offensive coordinator Greg Knapp. “I didn’t play much last year; I had a tough injury. It was a very frustrating season.” To focus on Hasselbeck during a practice is a glimpse into his approach to the game. He’ll turn 34 this season – his 11th in the NFL – but he playfully sprints around between sessions, and obviously has fun at work.

Lions DE Eric Hicks had good things to say about rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford. "He's coming out here and working hard," Hicks said. "He's definitely living up to the hype, making good passes and showing his leadership out there with the second group." Daunte Culpepper still is getting the majority of reps with the first team, and Stafford appears to be the backup ahead of Drew Stanton. "Any time you have a high draft pick who enters the equation, it is going to change the dynamics," coach Jim Schwartz said. "Everybody in the locker room knows where the guy was picked. He knows. The city of Detroit knows."

Saints defensive end Charles Grant and Will Smith and former Saint Deuce McAllister will be suspended for the first four games of the '09 season. A federal judge in Minnesota threw out their lawsuit late Friday against the NFL. The trio, and a pair of Minnesota Vikings, claimed that the NFL did not advise them that the weight loss diuretic StarCaps contained a banned substance. The five tested positive last season. The judge said, "the league policy says unequivocably that players are responsible for what is in their bodies."

Vikings WR Sidney Rice made two difficult catches today. He beat Marcus Walker, who had very good coverage, on a deep post and then made a catch while falling down along the sideline. Rice’s right knee certainly didn’t appear to be an issue.

The pretty boy is growing older, and the party-boy pictures aren't popping up on the Internet anymore. Matt Leinart has rarely looked better. He is somewhat chiseled now, hardened by a new commitment to the weight room and life in the NFL. He takes pride in being the 2nd-team QB. He is 26 years old and beginning to make very smart choices. "A lot of this goes to the maturity of Matt," Cardinals HC Whisenhunt said. "A lot of times (backup QBs) are guys who have had tremendous success in the past, and they don't handle the role very well. And then when it comes time for them to play, they're not prepared. They don't play well. "I have to give credit to Matt, because it appears to me, from what I've seen on the practice field, that he's grown up."

Chiefs RB Larry Johnson and Tamba Hali did not participate in Friday's practice. "Nothing was a surprise," said coach Todd Haley, who would not elaborate. "Everything was legit and we’re aware of what’s going on." Johnson's place as the starting RB was taken by Jamaal Charles. Hali's spot at one outside LB position was taken by Andy Studebaker. Speaking of LJ, Haley complimented him today, something he has been reluctant to do with not just Johnson but any player. "He made some runs in the last practice I thought were pretty special," Haley said. "I was very encouraged by a couple of those. Those flashed at me and the coaches to where you say, ‘That was pretty good.’ If Larry continues to work and stay on point and do the things asked of him, he’ll definitely have a chance to help us."

Saints Pierre Thomas, who emerged as the Saints' lead runner last season, said he has added more than 10 pounds of bulk, up to more than 220 pounds, in hopes of being the power back the Saints are looking for.

Saints WR Lance Moore, who had shoulder surgery in April, is not expected to be back at practice until training camp.

Saints WR Marques Colston and tailback Reggie Bush have been participating on a limited basis in these workouts, which began Tuesday. Both players are recovering from knee surgeries, and both are expected to increase their involvement during the June 5-7 minicamp in hopes of being full speed by the start of training camp. Although the surgeries were considered minor, they both involved microfracture procedures, so it was a good sign they were running around comfortably and fluidly this early in the offseason. "(Bush) practiced the last two days, and today we backed off him, " Saints Coach Sean Payton said. "We expect him to be ready for minicamp. . . . But even then we'll be smart in regards to how much." Marques Colston said he feels "a little bit ahead of schedule, " but that he's "not trying to push it past its limits right now."

The buzz around Saints WR Robert Meachem has quieted considerably heading into his third NFL season. But if Thursday's practice was any indication, he might be ready to crank up the volume. Meachem emerged as the unexpected star of the first organized team activity that was open to the media this season, stealing some of the spotlight from the new-look defense.
With starting WRs Marques Colston and Lance Moore still nursing injuries, Meachem ran with the first team and made several impressive catches. Saints QB Drew Brees said he has noticed an increased confidence in Meachem this offseason. And Meachem said he does feel more confident than he's ever felt in New Orleans. But even more important, he said, is that his "explosion" is back. "I would say my legs are back under me. I've got my strength back, " said Meachem, who has been playing catch-up ever since he suffered a knee injury during the summer of his rookie season. "Everything just feels good. Everything is feeling smooth now, " Meachem said. "I didn't feel like I was the old me. So now the old me is back. I'm a lot faster."

Browns WR Braylon Edwards, speaking at voluntary minicamp for the first time since off-season trade rumors, said he didn't want to leave Cleveland on a bad note after his sub-par 2008 season.
"I didn't get excited [about the rumors]," he said. "One, they were rumors and there was nothing to hold on to. And two, I felt like if I would have left Cleveland for any reason, I would have left with a bad taste in my mouth. "I wanted to get back to playing good football, definitely here. It's a business and who knows what's going to happen next year. But for me, it was just about getting back to what I know I can do and being the player the Browns drafted in '05 and that the fans saw in '07." He said the fact that Browns GM George Kokinis engaged in trade talks with the Giants involving him didn't sour him.

With Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin skipping all 3 days of workouts, likely because he's still fuming about his contract, the door was opened for 2nd-year WR Early Doucet to get more reps in practices. Just as important, it allowed Doucet to re-establish a rhythm with QB Kurt Warner. "I think it definitely helps," Doucet said of Boldin's absence. "As a young player trying to make a name for yourself, you want to take advantage of those opportunities. It's all part of the game, too, because you never know when somebody is going to go down. You've got to be ready to step up whenever that time may be." For the moment, that time is now. If the situation with Boldin gets murkier before training camp in late July, the Cardinals and Doucet will be better off because of the progress the wideout from Louisiana State appears to be making.

The media got its first live look at Vikings first-round pick WR Percy Harvin in Thursday’s OTA and he looked every bit as fast and explosive as advertised. Harvin lined up in a number of different spots, including in the backfield and the slot, and he’s also getting reps as the punt and kickoff return man. We talked to Harvin after practice and here is some of what he said: “It feels great,” he said. “There’s no better experience than what I’m going through right now. I’m glad to get the combine and all the stuff over with and finally lace it back up and get on the football field. It’s a wonderful feeling.” (On the illness that forced him to miss the rookie minicamp) “I think it got a little blown out of proportion because of the swine flu. But I had extreme dehydration and a little flu going through the airport. It was dangerous at the time but it was nothing but dehydration. I got some fluids in me and I was back on my feet.” (On learning the offense) “I study a lot so I don’t mess up too much on the field. I was told at a young age, if you mess up, mess up going full speed. Anything I’m doing I’m going full speed.”

The biggest Bills story to keep an eye on right now, later in training camp at St. John Fisher College, and obviously once the regular season starts, is how the refurbished offensive line comes together. So while WR Terrell Owens adds to his collection of keys to cities, and bops around Buffalo for the filming of his reality TV show, the reality for the Bills is this: If this offensive line — which will likely have a new starter at all five positions this year — doesn't keep pass rushers away from Trent Edwards or open holes for Marshawn Lynch and the other running backs, Owens is going to be a non-factor. "I think that's where it starts, up front," said wide receiver Lee Evans, who will also suffer if Edwards is spending his afternoons on his back.

As Michael Vick left federal prison in Kansas for home confinement in Virginia Wednesday, Falcons owner Arthur Blank reiterated that the former face of the franchise won’t play for the team again.“As Michael nears the completion of his sentence, I wish the best for him and his family,” Blank said in a statement. “It is my sincere hope that he has learned from his mistakes and will move forward in a productive and positive manner.“The Falcons maintain Michael’s contractual rights for now, but he will not be playing for us in the future. In the event NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell decides to reinstate Michael to the NFL, we feel his best opportunity to re-engage his football career would be at another club. “From a personal standpoint, I will continue to be supportive of Michael in any way that would be positive, constructive and helpful.”

The Bengals released center Digger Bujnoch.

The Lions signed tackle Ephraim Salaam.

The 49ers named Mark Donovan executive vice president and chief operating officer.

The Dolphins signed tight end John Nalbone to a multi-year contract.

The Giants signed guard Tutan Reyes; released tight end Martrez Milner.

The Raiders signed safety Keith Davis.

The 49ers signed cornerback Dre' Bly to a one-year contract

One of Vikings' RB Adrian Peterson's primary focuses remains on increasing his weight. He expressed a desire last winter to gain 7 to 12 pounds this offseason but said Wednesday after the Vikings' second day of Organized Team Activities that he weighs about 216 or 217 pounds. He finished last season at 217 and still wants to get to 225 to help him withstand the wear and tear of the season. Peterson has been consulting with Vikings strength and conditioning coach Tom Kanavy on a plan to get bigger in his thighs and upper body without adding fat. One thing that doesn't worry Peterson is the possibility he could slow himself down. "(That is) not a concern at all. I hear it a lot, but my mind-set and how I view things is totally different from a lot of people," he said. "I've come to understand that and recognize that. I feel I can do anything I put my mind to."

Cleveland Browns WR and return specialist Josh Cribbs attended a team meeting on Thursday after previously threatening to skip the voluntary minicamp this week. Cribbs, who is trying to renegotiate his contract, missed the first two days, and released a statement to " Browns fans and the Browns" to express his discontent with the current lack of negotiations. Cribbs did meet with coach Eric Mangini following the full team meeting, but Cribbs did not take part in the afternoon team workouts. Cribbs has intimated that he would ask for a trade if there is no progress, and his lengthy statement made it clear that he was upset, but that he also wanted to stay with the Browns.

First edge in the Browns QB competition goes to ... Brady Quinn. Quinn has taken reps with the first team this week at coach Eric Mangini's first voluntary minicamp. "That's because he's done a really outstanding job in the offseason program," Mangini said today. "Not that Derek [Anderson] hasn't done well, but [Quinn] had the edge so he took the first reps. There's no overwhelming significance to that."
Mangini said Browns coaches will track "everything" the quarterbacks do during this open competition for the starting job.

Saints WR Marques Colston, who is working his way back from an arthroscopic knee surgery he had in January, participated Thursday. Payton said he expects Colston to "get some work" in the team's minicamp the first weekend of June.

Saints star TB Reggie Bush, still working his way back from knee surgery, didn't take part in the workout Thursday but HC Payton said he did participate in the first two OTAs of the week. Payton said he expects Bush to "get some work" in the team's minicamp the first weekend of June.

Saints Coach Sean Payton said he was pleased with the team's attitude and attendance for the voluntary workouts. The only missing veteran players were TE Jeremy Shockey and recently signed safety Darren Sharper who both had family matters they had to handle. "I talked to both players and we'll get them both back here ASAP," Payton said.

Titans 1st round pick Kenny Britt missed most of the practice with a hamstring strain, so the microscope look at the receiver will have to wait.

Titans rookie tight end Jared Cook worked with the receivers in some drills. The guy is clearly a heck of an athlete, and he made a number of catches. But he also appeared to have trouble lining up. At one point, veteran Alge Crumpler even came out and helped straighten him out.

Vikings coach Brad Childress said today that “as far as I know [Brett Favre] is still retired,” but declined to completely close the door on the QB coming out of retirement to play for the Vikings. Childress acknowledged he has spoken with Favre on the phone — “Just like I did last year, three months ago,” Childress said — but added the two have not talked in several weeks. “He’s retired, so it’s not relevant and it’s not any of my focus right now,” Childress said following the Vikings’ 3rd day or organized team activities. ” Asked why he didn’t simply close the door on Favre situation — if it is indeed dead — Childress said: “Because I think you take every situation as it comes along. For me to stand here and say something is going to happen I don’t know. I just don’t know. It’s all hypothetical and I just think we’ve got to the point where we hypothetically ask a question that we have to have an answer to. … So the question becomes the story and you can write volumes on it one side or the other. Again, it’s not something that I’m entertaining and I’m more focused on the guys that are part of this football team. Old and young in the building or out on the grass. That’s what I put all my energy into right now.”

Vikings QBs Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels split reps during Thursday’s OTA practice at Winter Park. Rosenfels was acquired from Houston in February for a fourth-round draft pick and is expected to compete with Jackson for the starting job. That, of course, is working under the assumption that Favre doesn’t sign this summer.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have waived former Oklahoma State receiver D'Juan Woods. Woods, signed as a rookie free agent in 2007, spent parts of the last two seasons on Jacksonville's practice squad. He played in one game, but became expendable when the team signed free agent Torry Holt and selected 3 WRs in last month's NFL draft.
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The Cowboys traded for WR Roy Williams to become the next Terry Glenn, a complement to Owens. (Glenn had 70 receptions for 1,047 yards and 6 TDs as Owens’ sidekick in 2006.) But having cut Owens in March, the Cowboys now are counting on Williams to fill Owens’ cleats, with Patrick Crayton moving back into a starting role on the other side. But it’s catch as catch can, and Miles Austin, Sam Hurd and Isaiah Stanback will have a hand in replacing Owens’ numbers. Their potential is a reason the Cowboys didn’t draft a wideout until the 7th round, when they took Oklahoma’s Manuel Johnson. "I can’t worry about what the talk is about Terrell’s gone and who’s going to step up," Hurd said. "I’ve just got to go out there and prove that I’m able to step up when it’s my time." Cowboys owner Jerry Jones cited Austin, Hurd and Stanback in March when explaining his decision to release Owens, saying their "opportunity to play and help us was the biggest thing that impacted my decision." Jones has thrown them praise after praise after praise, especially Austin, whom he compared to a young Owens.

New Patriots RB Fred Taylor was the biggest name present at yesterday's organized team activity session, which included mostly players trying to make a mark in the NFL. Taylor, who is 16th on the NFL's all-time rushing list with 11,271 yards, already has made his mark, but yesterday was about trying to make a dent in the Patriots' playbook. "I just came here to do a job," said the 33-year-old Taylor, who signed a 2-year, $5 million deal in February. "I've been working in this business for 11 years. I want to learn the playbook, so I don't have to hesitate. I don't want to feel like a rookie out there. I listen. I've always been coachable. Whatever I've got to do I've got to do it, but it starts with learning the plays first." Taylor said the wrist he sprained working out in South Florida last month is fine.

Raiders Coach Tom Cable said he expects Derrick Burgess, the subject of trade rumors with New England, to be with the Raiders when the season started but acknowledged they get inquiries on players all the time. Burgess was not at the OTA.

Observed during Wednesday’s Raiders organized team activity session: – Let’s get it out of the way first. QB JaMarcus Russell’s passing was, well, it was awful. There’s no other way to put it. Coach Tom Cable conceded there were accuracy issues and attributed them to the newness of the passing game, which will feature deeper routes. He also said Russell was better today than he was Tuesday and he expects him to be better still on Thursday. Would have hated to see Tuesday if he was worse. Since it’s only May 20, it’s not worth making a major issue out of it, but that didn’t make it any easier to watch.

After missing the first day of the voluntary work, Cardinals QB Kurt Warner, WR Larry Fitzgerald, Sean Morey, Adrian Wilson and Chike Okeafor were all back with the team.

Cardinals QB Kurt Warner was also cleared to do everything in OTAs after his hip rehab. No surprised there. He was almost ready by minicamp. Warner should be fine this season with no lingering afteraffects.

The Jaguars waived wide receiver D'Juan Woods; claimed cornerback Tyron Brackenridge off waivers from the New York Jets.

The Bills waived wide receiver Mike Jefferson.

The Falcons signed wide receiver Khalil Jones.

The Chiefs drafted TE Brad Cottam in the 3rd round last year to be Gonzalez’s eventual successor, but not with the idea he would be that kind of receiver. Cottam caught all of 21 passes in his four collegiate seasons at Tennessee. “I was brought here for a different reason, to be more of a blocker,” Cottam said. “I’ve showed them I can be a pretty good receiver, too. I just hope people will be saying good things about me down the road. Maybe someday I’ll be looked at as a better-rounded tight end.” The Chiefs have a lot pinned on that hope. Their other tight ends are a collection of journeymen and developmental players. So while the Chiefs don’t expect Cottam to get close to Gonzalez-like numbers, they need help from him as a receiver.

Ravens also still dealing with injuries: WRs Derrick Mason (shoulder) and Mark Clayton (heel), RB Willis McGahee (knee), TEs "L.J." John Smith (groin) and Quinn Sypniewski (knee), OTs Oniel Cousins (torn left pectoral) and Adam Terry (knee surgery), DT Kelly Talavou (shoulder), LBs Antwan Barnes (pectoral surgery) and Jason Phillips (meniscus) and CBs Samari Rolle (groin), Chris Carr (shoulder), Fabian Washington (neck/shoulder) and Frank Walker (shoulder). "Derrick's program right now is geared toward the mental part of football, the rehab, the lifting and conditioning," Harbaugh said. "If he was fully healthy, he'd be out here." Clayton indicated that his heel ailment, plantar fasciitis, isn't serious. "It's getting better," Clayton said. "It's not that bad."

Ravens WR Demetrius Williams had his upper leg wrapped up toward the end of practice. He's coming off Achilles' tendon surgery, ending last season on injured reserve."He's been so concentrated on getting the Achilles' thing worked out that he hasn't been able to do the kind of running that kind of athlete needs to do to have everything else in shape," Harbaugh said. "There are going to be groins, hip flexors, hamstrings, calves that are going to come up and you're going to have to push through it, but not overdo it."Williams said that he isn't concerned about the slow pace of recovery. "I've worked the ankle so long, and we just don't want to reinjure it," Williams said. "I know myself and right now I'm not running the way I'm supposed to be. You have to be careful with it."

Bills FB Corey McIntyre passed a polygraph test “with flying colors,” his agent said Tuesday, describing the accusations that the player exposed himself in front of a Florida woman as “outrageous and harmful allegations.” “It’s a case of mistaken identity,” Brett J. Tessler told The Buffalo News. “I don’t know who it was, but it sure as hell wasn’t Corey McIntyre.” Also Tuesday, Port St. Lucie, Fla., police, who arrested McIntyre on Thursday, denied claims that McIntyre has been cleared of the charge.

When Cowboys QB Tony Romo lined up with the first team Tuesday, Roy Williams and Patrick Crayton were the receivers. Miles Austin and Sam Hurd were the second-teamers. The production of those four will go a long way toward determining whether dumping T.O. was the right move. "Guys have to step up and pick up the slack," Romo said. "Guys are working hard, I know that. Whether they're going to do it, we're going to find out this year. But I definitely have confidence in the young guys to step up and perform."

Embattled former Broncos NFL player RB Travis Henry was arrested again today by U.S. Marshals in Auburndale, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Donte Stallworth, set to be arraigned Thursday on charges of DUI manslaughter, is still working out in Miami and not participating in the camp. The Browns are giving him time to work out his legal issues, a source said.

Browns WR Braylon Edwards, the subject of trade talks this off-season, and D'Qwell Jackson, who's seeking an extension, participated in the minicamp Tuesday, according to sources.
"Braylon is excited to be at minicamp with his teammates and the new coaching staff and is looking forward to the season and playing football," said an Edwards spokesperson. Edwards, who participated in only the first few days of the Browns' off-season program, has not been heard from despite persistent trade talks and rumors. Browns GM George Kokinis admitted at the NFL owners meetings in March that he had talked to the Giants about a trade for Edwards. There have also been rumors that the Jets might be interested in trading for him.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell admitted Tuesday that he doesn't know if Brett Favre filed his retirement papers with the NFL last February after the QB said he planned to leave the game following one season with the Jets. There has been mass speculation in recent weeks that Favre will return to play for the Vikings and much of the focus has centered on whether the partially torn biceps in his throwing arm will allow him to continue.

Jets Pro Bowl RB Thomas Jones will rejoin his teammates next week after sitting out voluntary team activities while in a contract dispute, according to his agent. Drew Rosenhaus wrote on his Twitter page Tuesday night that Jones, entering the third year of a 4-year, $20 million deal, "will attend the Jets OTA next Wednesday." Rosenhaus didn't offer any further information whether an agreement on a restructured deal is in place, and the agent didn't immediately answer an e-mail from The AP seeking comment.

The 49ers used a 3rd-round draft pick – the same round in which RB Frank Gore was drafted – to select Alabama RB Glen Coffee. The team also is excited about another rookie, Purdue's Kory Sheets, a non-drafted free agent. HC Singletary made it clear on draft weekend that Gore was still the team's primary RB. But he also said Coffee's acquisition was in Gore's best interest. "Frank is smart enough to know that taking every snap, getting injured in the last couple of years – a little nick here, a little nick there – it helps to have somebody in there who can give him a break, share some of that load," Singletary said. Gore, however, said the ankle injuries that caused him to miss games in 2007 and '08 were not because his body broke down. And he insisted he is the type of RB who gets better the more he touches the football. "I couldn't help that someone fell on my ankle, and the year before it was the same," Gore said. "Last year, I felt like I was getting stronger. And I did get hurt. I won't say it was because I was worn down. It was just unlucky injuries."

Patriots QB Tom Brady is not expected to be an on-field participant today in the first of four open sessions the Patriots [team stats] will conduct as part of their 12 OTAs (organized team activities). The reason? Club spokesman Stacey James explained this week’s OTAs were geared toward younger players and newcomers, such as RB Fred Taylor. It is aimed at getting everyone on the same page. Not all of the players on the 92-man roster will take part.

Even as a two-time Pro Bowler, Derrick Burgess is not a familiar name to Patriots followers. But those familiar with the Raiders DE, whom the Patriots have explored acquiring in a trade, say he'd improve them. According to league sources, the Patriots discussed a deal for Burgess as far back as the draft. Oakland's asking price - a 2nd- or 3rd-round pick, according to reports - might have derailed a deal. Still, the 30-year-old Burgess, who is in the final year of a five-year deal and carries a $2 million base salary for 2009, might be the Patriots' best option for a proven pass rusher after losing out on Jason Taylor.Taylor told the Miami media yesterday that he did talk to the Patriots.

Strong-side LB figures to be one of the few positions where the Bears will have a true battle in training camp for a starting job, but that could change if Pisa Tinoisamoa reunites with Lovie Smith and Bob Babich. The veteran linebacker will visit Halas Hall today, less than two weeks after being released by the Rams, with whom he became the first rookie in franchise history to lead the team in tackles in 2003 while playing for Smith and Babich. Although Tinoisamoa has spent most of his career on the weak side, he played that season on the strong side, where the Bears have Nick Roach and Hunter Hillenmeyer set to compete beginning with today's organized team activity.

The rookies reported back to Lions headquarters Monday. They will go through their first practice with the veterans today. Much media attention will be on how Matthew Stafford looks next to Daunte Culpepper and Drew Stanton. After rookie orientation May 3, GM Martin Mayhew gave his thoughts on why top QB prospects have failed in the past. "They get drafted early by teams that haven't been successful, and then they get rushed onto the field," Mayhew said. So how do the Lions break the pattern? They plan to play Stafford when he's ready and the best quarterback.

Cowboys QB Tony Romo addressed the media following Tuesday's OTA, on Roy Williams: "He's worked real hard this off-season. We came in, in February. We got in three with Joe Juraszek and he's really made an emphasis to try to come in in great shape, to get stronger and it's exciting to see him. He had a great first day today. I think you guys saw some of the routes he ran and they were pretty good. I'm excited to see him keep progressing and see where this can go."

The Jets signed tackle Matt Slauson; waived defensive back Tyron Brackenridge.

The Texans are auditioning for RBs to complement Steve Slaton. Veteran Chris Brown (6-3, 235) certainly looks the part because he’s a bigger back who is fast enough to excel in the team’s one-cut scheme. Brown has been held back by injuries for most of career and spent last season on injured reserve because of a back injury. Now, he's trying to prove he can stay healthy and compete to be the No. 2 guy. “He’s been fine,” Kubiak said of Brown. “He hasn’t had any health issues throughout the offseason. We tried to monitor some of the things he’s doing in the offseason. He won’t let us. He says, ‘No, I’m all in. I feel like I’ll be able to do it all.’ He’s held up well.” Brown has been splitting back up duties with Ryan Moats, who backed up Slaton last season.

The Chiefs started offseason practice Monday without two starting players, guard Brian Waters and LB Mike Vrabel. Waters asked to be traded or released after a February meeting with coach Todd Haley. Nor was Vrabel’s absence a surprise since he skipped a minicamp last month. The reasons for his absence aren’t as clear as they are for Waters. “We had 83 guys here, which was excellent considering (the practices) are voluntary,” Haley said. “I’m not going to talk about who’s here and who’s not here. This is all voluntary. "We’d like everybody here, but those who weren’t here are not a surprise to any of us. I feel comfortable with where we’re at with those guys.” Also missing was 4th-round draft pick Donald Washington, who is barred from practicing under NFL rules because his class at Ohio State has yet to graduate. Washington won’t be eligible to join the Chiefs until next month, after a mandatory minicamp.

Chargers RB Ladainian Tomlinson was among only a handful of notables to miss the first day. He is attending to a family issue in Texas. Shawne Merriman, Kassim Osgood and Vincent Jackson were also absent.

Todd Heap is sidelined for his second straight minicamp, but the Ravens tight end expects to participate in a full practice before offseason workouts end in mid-June. Heap is dealing with a lower back injury that dates back to the playoffs four months ago. He injured it during a practice in January. "He's not as far along as we all thought he would be -- and he thought he would be -- so we're just trying to work through it," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Tuesday, the second day of passing camp. Heap was third on the team last season with 35 catches, his fewest receptions in a 16-game season.

Vikings owner Zygi Wilf refused to comment today when asked about his team’s interest in Brett Favre, according to Scott Hanson of the NFL Network. Hanson, who used Twitter to relay the information, is in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., this week for the NFL owners meetings. Wilf is representing the Vikings, along with team president Mark Wilf and vice chairman Leonard Wilf. Zygi Wilf’s no comment should come as no surprise considering it seems as if Favre is driving this process and it’s pretty clear he hasn’t decided what course of action to take for the partially torn biceps in his throwing arm. Mark Wilf confirmed a week ago that the Vikings were interested in Favre but didn’t go into any detail.

Texans QB Matt Schaub jogged on the field free of the knee brace he wore the final month of last season. The shoulder surgery he underwent last offseason was a distant memory as he participated in the first day of Texans organized team activities Monday. For the past 3 months, Schaub, 27, has avoided the training room and enjoyed a “normal” offseason. “It was wonderful, since I didn’t have to worry about coming in the training room every morning,” Schaub said. “I got to spend a lot more time with my wife and travel, and I got to play golf early in this offseason. So that was fun.” It’s back to business for the third-year starter, though. He returns rested, healthy and confident, and it only helps that his 10 fellow starters from 2008 also return to help build on a season in which the Texans finished third in the NFL in total offense. “He’s very comfortable,” All-Pro WR Andre Johnson said. “I think everyone is comfortable.

Dolphins Greg Camarillo (knee), David Martin (undisclosed injury) and rookie Brennan Marion (undisclosed) are also not working in all the drills today. Camarillo is doing some drills but being being held out of others, particularly the ones that require he cuts on the knee. [Update again: Coach Tony Sparano just said Martin has had a sports hernia "taken care of," which is code for surgery.]

Bengals WR Chris Henry lined up at Chad Johnson's (Ochocinco) X receiver spot while Laveranues Coles lined up at T.j. Houshmandzadeh's old spot.

Bengals QB Carson Palmer looked like his old self throwing the football, and had a couple nice long balls, including a 50-yard toss to Chris Henry.

The Saints have signed free-agent defensive end Anthony Hargrove. The Saints hope the move strengthens depth at a position that could be depleted early next season if starting ends Will Smith and Charles Grant are forced to serve four-game suspensions, which remain on appeal in federal court.

According to a report first on ESPN, and later corroborated by WEEI’s Christopher Price, the Patriots are considering a trade that would send a second-or-third-round draft pick to Oakland for Raiders LB Derrick Burgess. The acquisition of Burgess would finally help fill the void at outside linebacker created by the trade of Mike Vrabel. The two-time Pro Bowler is in the final year of his contract with Oakland. He is said to be unhappy with not being able to reach a new deal. Burgess, who will be 31 at the start of next season, had 16 sacks for the Raiders in 2005, but he’s been slowed by injuries in recent seasons.

Bucs fullback Byron Storer will miss the 2009 season with a knee injury. The team placed Storer on injured reserve Tuesday after he suffered a setback in his recovery from a 2008 knee injury during organized team activities last week. Storer, a special teams player who also started three games at fullback early last season because of injuries to the team's running back corps, became part of the casualty list in the sixth game of the 2008 campaign on October 12 against Carolina.

Saints GM Mickey Loomis told FOXSports.com that the team is still considering making a contract offer to free-agent running back Edgerrin James. "We've spent some time evaluating Edgerrin," Loomis said Tuesday morning. "We think he can still play. We're going to continue to evaluate that and see where it ends up. We haven't made a decision on Edgerrin yet."

Contrary to reports, Brett Favre does not have an appointment with Dr. James Andrews on Tuesday and doesn't consider surgery on his partially torn biceps tendon to be imminent, according to a source. Favre discussed surgical and non-surgical options with Andrews last week, as ESPN has reported. Citing unnamed sources, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported that Favre was to meet with Andrews on Tuesday in Birmingham, Alabama, to discuss surgery on his throwing shoulder and that the procedure was expected to be performed later this week. Favre, however, remains focused on non-surgical options, including cortisone injections and natural movements like light throwing and bicep curls that might cause the tendon to release naturally, the source told ESPN. If the tendon releases and the pain subsides, Favre is virtually certain to play again. If he has surgery and his arm strength diminishes or the pain remains, he will remain retired, the source said.

Browns WR Josh Cribbs plans to boycott Browns voluntary minicamp this week unless there is progress on talks for a new contract by the start of camp today, said his agent, J.R. Rickert. The two sides continued to talk Monday night but with no apparent movement.

Dolphins WR Greg Camarillo can turn in his bed without excruciating pain. He's been driving on his own several months since having his left knee surgically rebuilt in December, and is walking without the slightest limp. Camarillo said the ongoing rehabilitation of his surgically repaired anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus started out "painful and slow," but has progressed to the point where he's regained most of the strength in his left leg. He's been running straight ahead for weeks. Up next is building the knee's range of motion. Camarillo, who contributed 55 receptions for 613 yards and two touchdowns in 11 starts last season, will likely continue that task this week during the Dolphins' Organized Training Activities.

The Vikings signed fullback Nehemiah Broughton.

The Eagles announced defensive coordinator Jim Johnson has been granted a leave of absence; signed quarterback Adam DiMichele and defensive tackle Jervonte Jackson.

The 49ers signed safety Curtis Taylor to a four-year contract; waived cornerback Jimmy Williams.

The Ravens signed wide receiver Kelley Washington to a one-year contract.

The Cardinals agreed to terms with wide receiver Edward Gant.

Saints FB Heath Evans, a 30-year-old free agent from NE, who brings more versatility to the offense. Evans has served as a fill-in TB with the Patriots, in addition to being more of a receiving threat and a special teams specialist. But the Saints insist that they also expect him to be an upgrade as a blocking back, which will be his main duty. Although Evans may see some work as a short-yardage runner in certain situations, the Saints didn't specifically bring him in to fill that void in their offense. FB Darian Barnes is a journeyman veteran who has bounced around with eight teams in his career. He joined the Saints late last season but played sparingly, mostly on special teams. FB Olaniyi SobomehinSobomehin, an athletic undrafted rookie, showed promise last year in training camp and on the practice squad. But he suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in his NFL debut against SF after catching two passes for 8 yards.The Saints have gone with just one FB on their roster in the past, but they could keep two, especially if one of the backups stands out on special teams.

Jets RB Leon Washington's boycott of the team's organized team activities reached its second week Monday as he was a no-show again, one of my sources just told me. Washington, who had attended the sessions until last Monday, is unhappy with his contract and the lack of progress in negotiations. I'm hearing Washington decided to walk when the Jets "lowballed" him with their initial offer.Don't fret, Jets fans. I'm confident that agent Alvin Keels and Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum will reach a deal at some point. Washington is too valuable to the team, and Tannenbaum has recently taken care of the organization's young talent (i.e. WR Jerricho Cotchery and S Kerry Rhodes) that has come to the team through the Draft.

In the latest sign that Brett Favre is planning to end his retirement and play in the NFL in 2009, a report out Monday says that he is set to have surgery this week to repair his injured throwing shoulder. The St. Paul Pioneer Press is reporting that Favre will meet with renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews on Tuesday and have surgery later in the week to repair a partially torn biceps tendon in his right shoulder. He would then rehab the shoulder for six to eight weeks, meaning a full recovery could be expected in time for the start of training camp.

Joshua Cribbs, upset because the Browns haven't tried to renegotiate a contract he believes he's outperformed, could sit out the next two weeks of voluntary minicamp and might be close to asking for a trade, a source said.One of the game's most dangerous return specialists, Cribbs is also a threat as a receiver and a running back. New Browns coach Eric Mangini even has plans to use Cribbs at cornerback for around 18 plays a game.
His complaint is a seven-year, $6.77 million contract extension he signed in 2006. According to a source, the Browns acknowledged to Cribbs last season he had outperformed his contract.

With Mark Bruener retiring after his 14th season, the Texans are seeking his replacement. Anthony Hill will compete with Joel Dreessen and fellow rookie James Casey for playing time in two tight-end sets. Hill will try to separate himself from the rest with the skills that made him arguably the best blocking TE in the draft. “I think he caught my eye first when we were watching N.C. State and evaluating TEs,” Texans TEs coach Brian Pariani said. “You could see the strength he had.“I think what Anthony adds is that he’s a line-of-scrimmage player who adds toughness to what we’re trying to do in the running game.” That’s not to say Hill will only be blocking. The Texans pride themselves on having versatile TEs. Owen Daniels was the team’s 2nd-leading receiver last season. Casey can play TE, QB or even FB. Dreessen proved valuable on special teams and caught 11 passes last year.

Terrell Owens arrived at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport late Sunday night. Owens signed a one year, $6.5 Million deal with the Bills after the Cowboys released him earlier this year.

Bears fan Tony Tudisco from Aurora, Ill., put himself on the hot seat Sunday when he inquired how Jay Cutler would thrive "without any receivers to throw to." Bears GM Jerry Angelo fired back. "Sounds like you're from Wisconsin," Angelo said sarcastically. The WR question was sure to surface as spirited diehards gathered for the annual Bears Expo. But before the festivities began, Angelo discussed a veteran WR possibility he previously had dismissed: Plaxico Burress. "As I said, we'll look at every option," Angelo said. "(His) situation is different because there are circumstances. We'll monitor it." Cutler has reached out to Burress, and agent Drew Rosenhaus recently said at least two teams are seriously interested in signing the former Giant. The Jets are believed to be one of them. "Are we one of those two teams? No," Angelo said. The Bears enter Wednesday's first day of organized team activities with Devin Hester as their lead receiver followed by Earl Bennett, Rashied Davis, Brandon Rideau and rookies Juaquin Iglesias, Johnny Knox and Derek Kinder. "We are very comfortable with the receivers that we have moving forward," Angelo said. "But if somebody does become available, we'll always look."

QB Jeff Garcia , 39, still has enough game to awaken Jamarcus Russell's inner warrior. Garcia would like to think he does, which explains during the May interview with LA radio station KLAC. Garcia told reporters that he signed as a free agent with Oakland knowing Russell was the projected starter and that he, Garcia, was here to enhance Russell's development and play when needed. Four days later, having fully processed the minicamp and perhaps sensing Russell is vulnerable to a challenge, Garcia seemed less concerned with incumbent status than the needs and goals of the team. "I'm not going to say that things can't change, and I understand that the role I have basically assumes going in Oakland knowing that JaMarcus was drafted to be the starting QB there," Garcia told host Chris Meyers. "But there has to be some realization at some point as to putting the best players on the field that you are going to give you the best chance to win. "Now if JaMarcus is that guy, then he definitely deserves to be on the field and should be on the field. But if for some reason with what I bring as a player, from a competitive nature and just the intensity and emotion that I bring to the field and the knowledge of the game that I have — if that gives us a better chance to win football games, then that decision is going to have to be left up to the coach and hopefully he can make the right decision for the team."

Vikings QB Sage Rosenfels broke his silence on the team's interest in Brett Favre. But Rosenfels didn't have much to say about the courtship. "It doesn't make any sense to comment on something that hasn't happened," Rosenfels, told the Des Moines Register. The Vikings acquired Rosenfels in a trade with the Texans in February. Favre's agent, Bus Cook, told the Hattiesburg (Miss.) American in a story published Sunday that "there's absolutely no substance to all the speculation" about his client coming out of retirement to play for the Vikings. "I can't talk about that stuff without (Favre's) written permission," Cook said. Favre retired for the second time in February, and he was granted his release from the Jets a few weeks ago. Cook reiterated that Favre still is retired. "Have there been meetings? Are there any scheduled? To my knowledge, no," Cook told the paper. "Right now, Brett's retired. He's out there cutting grass." Yet, once again, Cook left the door open for his client to un-retire. "He may look up next week and say, 'I want a job,' " Cook said. "But as of right now, he's retired. That's it."

Before ever throwing a pass for the Bears, QB Jay Cutler already has achieved rock-star status among the thousands of faithful who attended the team's fan convention Sunday at Soldier Field.
Cutler's No. 6 jersey already rivals Brian Urlacher's No. 54 and Devin Hester's No. 23 for popularity. The ovation he received upon his introduction drowned out the receptions for any other Bear. Just imagine the celebrity Cutler will enjoy if he lives up to the hype. That might be impossible, although his acquisition has energized the off-season like none in recent memory. "The energy level has been unbelievable," said Bears president and CEO Ted Phillips, "and not just with the fans, but internally, with the staff, the coaches and the players. "It's just a new energy level. I hear it from the fans now. Even as the Bulls were going through their great playoff run, the Blackhawks still are, but fans still want to talk about the Bears and what this season holds for them.

49ers Wide receiver. Last year the 49ers entered the season with five receivers (Dominique Zeigler was activated during the season). This year there's a crowd at the position with Isaac Bruce, Josh Morgan, Jason Hill, Arnaz Battle and Zeigler returning and Brandon Jones and first-round pick Michael Crabtree added in recent months. Another receiver, Micheal Spurlock, will see time as a return man.

49ers Running back: Coach Mike Singletary made it clear Frank Gore is still the featured runner. Third-round pick Glen Coffee also will get carries, but after that there are plenty of question marks. Holdovers Michael Robinson and Thomas Clayton and rookie Kory Sheets, who has plenty to prove after going undrafted, will vie for playing time. Robinson is a valuable special-teams performer. Clayton and Sheets are competing for the same roster spot.

The 49ers meet as a team today for the first time since the draft as they kick off four days of organized team activities (OTAs). Their roster is the deepest it's been in years, and several intriguing roster battles begin today. Quarterback: The big battle, between Shaun Hill and Alex Smith, started in early April. However, there also is a secondary competition between veteran Damon Huard and rookie Nate Davis for the No. 3 job. The 49ers have not said whether they will keep four QBs. If they don't, Huard or Davis will be cut, although Davis could find a spot on the practice squad.

TE Tony Gonzalez made a strong first impression with the Falcons, arriving in town quickly to begin the process of developing chemistry with QB Matt Ryan. At minicamp, Gonzalez showed up early for practice, stayed late, and flashed speed that is uncommon for a 33-year-old. It didn't go unnoticed that Ryan seemed to be firing more footballs in the direction of Gonzalez. “Any time that you get a new toy,” Ryan said, ”you want to try it out.”

The depth of Saints RB Reggie Bush's role this season will depend largely on his health and how he rebounds from a microfracture procedure performed on his oft-injured left knee in mid-December by orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews. So far, so good, according to Bush, who has missed 10 games the past 2 seasons because of repeated issues with his left knee. "I'm feeling really good; I'm about 75%," Bush said. "The coaches are pleased with my rehab and the way it's going. I'm pleased. I feel like I'm ahead of schedule. I'm pretty much doing everything right now (in offseason workouts)." However, he is expected to work on a limited basis when organized training activities begin Tuesday (the first of 12 team workouts that run into June) and at minicamp June 5-7. None of the 12 practices are open to the public. "I'm pretty sure it'll be tapered down," Bush said. "I won't do as much. That's just being careful. I'm sure I'll be full-go in training camp."

Patriot's RB Laurence Maroney revealed that the shoulder injury that limited him to 3 games last season was a broken bone. He injured the shoulder against the Jets during the 2nd game of the season, sat out a week, then came back against SF Oct. 5, but looked tentative, refusing to lower his right shoulder for a first down. After the game, Maroney said he had "issues." The Patriots placed him on IR Oct. 20. "I had a broken bone and I was trying to play with it," said Maroney. "It's kind of hard to sit here and play and not tell people what is going on. Everybody is going to think one way because they don't really know what's going on. I dare anybody in this crowd to play football with a broken bone in your shoulder and you tell me how long you're going to last out there. "Doing it the second game and still trying to play, I feel like it still shows my toughness and my dedication to the team and how much I really want to contribute. The shoulder is great. Not good, great." Maroney acknowledged that it bothered him that some questioned his toughness. "It did, but everybody has a job to do," he said.

One thing I forgot to mention in yesterday's OTA report was the status of the recently re-signed TE Bubba Franks. He didn't practice because of a knee injury, although Ryan wasn't too worried. "We don't think it's serious," Ryan said. "Obviously, we wouldn't have signed him if that was the case. But we think Bubba will be fine when we go to training camp."

There's a small silver lining that accompanies the saga revolving around Leon Washington and Thomas Jones, the Jets' 2 RBs who are skipping the voluntary off-season training program activities because of their unhappiness with their respective contracts. It's giving the Jets the opportunity to get a good close look at Danny Woodhead, the guy who spent most of the time lined up in the backfield at RB during the Jets' OTA practice out at the Hangar yesterday. "Anytime you can get that experience, it's vital to you," said Woodhead, who's battled back from a serious left knee injury suffered during training camp last season. "Right now, I'm just trying to go with what I've got and you just work as hard as possible to get the system down to where I can just play fast all the time." But with the expected return of Washington and Thomas sometime in the coming weeks, and once 3rd-round pick Shonn Greene is signed and in camp, Woodhead will most likely be on the outside looking in. That's where a veteran like FB Tony Richardson comes into the picture.

Released by New Orleans after last season, RB Deuce Mcallister has spent part of the offseason visiting with doctors at Duke University and the rest in Gulf Breeze, Fla., working out about five hours a day at a sports medicine institute run by orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews. Just about every morning, he's pulling sleds or doing other traditional resistance training. With a military base nearby, he sometimes works out alongside special forces soldiers, admiring their techniques and stamina. McAllister's goal was to figure out why his knees have taken such a beating in recent seasons. He's torn anterior cruciate ligaments in both legs, first his right one in 2005 and then the left in 2007. He's needed minor cleanup operations since and played hurt throughout last season, having fluid drained from his left knee on a routine basis. McAllister said doctors have advised him to work on strength and flexibility in his hips, ankles and core, something he didn't focus on as much before. "It's really just working on everything around the knee to take some of the pressure off of the knee," McAllister said. He hopes within a few weeks to be ready to start visiting teams interested in signing him. He also wouldn't rule out returning to New Orleans, which he said would be "a dream come true. ... But if it's on a visiting team, then so be it. All that will play itself out."

Anquan Boldin continues to be unhappy with his contract with the Cardinals. As rumors continue to fly about a possible trade to a number of teams including the Dolphins. Boldin's Agent is trying to get a new deal with the Cardinals worked out. Agent Drew Rosenhouse said on his Twitter account yesterday that he has made a contract proposal to the Cardinals and that Boldin is not seeking ten million dollars a year like teammate Larry Fitzgerald.
The Cardinals have not put out a counter offer but word from Boldins camp is he does not want another season of contract issues like last year and would prefer to be traded. The hope is some kind of a deal, contract or trade would happen before the start of training camp which is July 25th.

Even though he faces the likelihood of jail time, former Giants WR Plaxico Burress is drawing interest from "at least two teams that are very serious about signing him," according to his agent. The receiver-needy Jets could be one of those teams. They acknowledged a call to the agent, Drew Rosenhaus, before last month's draft, and they continue to keep tabs on Burress. Owner Woody Johnson told the Daily News two weeks ago that he wouldn't stand in the way if GM Mike Tannenbaum wants to sign the controversial player.

On Thursday, Burress received a call from an unnamed head coach, according to Rosenhaus, who issued a Burress update Friday via his Twitter account.

New Raiders QB Jeff Garcia understands the team’s #1 spot is Jamarcus Russell’s to lose. That doesn’t mean he’s not going to fight to get onto the field once the regular season rolls around.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Garcia told Los Angeles radio station KLAC that he intends to force the Raiders’ coaching staff into a tough decision when it comes to which quarterback gives the team a better chance to win.

The Eagles offered Sheldon Brown and a 3rd-round draft pick for Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin, according to the Arizona Republic. The offer was made before the late April draft and just days after the Eagles cornerback publicly aired his unhappiness over his contract and asked to be traded. Arizona declined to make the swap, the report said. The Eagles had no comment yesterday.

With the Vikings eagerly waiting, QB Brett Favre has sought the advice of a noted surgeon about his beat-up throwing arm, according to the latest report on the quarterback's status.Citing an anonymous source, ESPN.com reported that Favre consulted orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews about options for healing the partially torn biceps tendon that has caused pain in his right shoulder. Andrews is one of the most consulted surgeons in pro sports.The Jets released him last month, making him free to sign with the Vikings or any other team, but Favre has expressed a disinterest in surgery. According to the ESPN.com report, Andrews and Favre experimented with an exercise regimen that could allow the tendon to tear naturally and thus avoid an operation. Earlier this week, president Mark Wilf acknowledged the team's interest in Favre. Asked whether the 18-year veteran has told the Vikings he wants to stay retired, Wilf hinted that Favre's interest in making another comeback hinges on his health. "That type of decision is up to Brett Favre, and I'll leave it to Brett Favre to give you that answer," he said.

The latest ... Bills FB Corey Mcintyre, was arrested Thursday and charged with misdemeanor exposure of sexual organs following a March 20 incident in Port St. Lucie, Fla. According to the police report, a 59-year-old woman said she heard a knock on her window, and when she looked outside she saw a man masturbating. McIntyre was apparently in the neighborhood riding his bicycle when police spotted him. The police brought the woman over and she identified McIntyre as the guy who exposed himself. McIntyre has denied the accusation and his agent issued a statement proclaiming his client's innocence. Could it be a case of mistaken identity? I guess anything is possible.

The Falcons released linebacker Derek Nicholson, cornerback Ronnie Prude and safety Marcus Paschal.

The Browns signed kicker Park Douglass.

The Bengals waived Guard Kirk Barton

The Cowboys re-signed wide receiver Miles Austin; signed running back Alonzo Coleman; signed tight end Rodney Hannah.

The Patriots re-signed defensive lineman Kenny Smith. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

The Eagles re-signed Wide Receiver Hank Baskett to a one-year deal; signed tight end Eugene Bright, terms were not disclosed.

Michael Lombardi of the National Football Post suggests that if he were the Seahawks GM he would look to bolster the team's RB situation by reuniting Thomas Jones with younger brother Julius Jones in Seattle. It's been well-documented that Thomas Jones is unhappy with his contract situation in New York. Lombardi proposes the Seahawks using WR Deion Branch as trade bait to get Thomas Jones from the Jets. Lombardi points out the Jets need a WR with Laveranues Coles now with Cincinnati, and suggests that the Seahawks could afford to part with Branch now that the team's receiving corps appears to have more depth with T.j. Houshmandzadeh and rookie Deon Butler in the fold. Lombardi also believes the Seahawks duo of Julius Jones and T.j. Duckett will not get it done in 2009. He says Julius Jones is too injury prone and Duckett doesn't have enough quickness to be effective in Greg Knapp's zone blocking system. While I respect Lombardi's opinion on league matters because of his experience with the NFL, I disagree with his assessment here. I don't believe Hawks GM Tim Ruskell is willing to give up on Branch yet, particularly after the way Branch played at the end of last season.

Raiders owner Al Davis made a point of singling out WR Chaz Schilens, as well as Johnnie lee Higgins, as young players who probably should have played more and sooner last season. So it was no surprise that when Tom Cable replaced Lane Kiffin, he got Schilens on to the field more often.

I had a chance to talk to wide receiver Sidney Rice the other day. Rice talked about his recovery from a right knee injury, his offseason workouts in Miami, his goals for next season. Here is some of what he said: Q: How is your knee? (Rice suffered a sprained PCL in week 2) Rice: It’s getting better. I can really tell that it’s getting better. I’m not 100 percent yet. But I’m running routes full speed and feeling pretty good. The coaches were watching me run the other day and they can tell I’m making progress with it. I’m not too far off from it. But I should be ready coming into training camp. Q: You said you’re close to 100 percent? What is still missing? Rice: I still feel a little pain when I do get up to full speed or when I’m getting close to it. My main thing is strengthening my quad and my hamstring. I’ve been doing a pretty good job. When we start these OTAs I’m going to be spending extra time in the training room running in the pool on the treadmill and doing little exercises. Those exercises help me out a lot.

The Bills will begin their on field preparations for the 2009 season on Monday as their organized team activities (OTAs) get underway next week with a three-day session that runs through Wednesday. Terrell Owens said earlier this offseason that he does plan to attend some of the voluntary OTA sessions this spring, but which ones and when? That’s a question only Owens can answer, which he did on his Twitter account where he said he would be in town next week for OTAs. In all likelihood that means Owens will be on hand Monday. It’s clear that Owens recognizes the importance of developing timing and chemistry with Trent Edwards in the practice setting so when the bullets fly for real they’re ready to make things happen.

The Eagles know that TE Brent Celek matured before their very eyes last year, and that he is going to be fed even more from the offensive trough in 2009. "I don't think there is any question that he is ready for the role. He has proven that," said Mornhinweg. "He has developed very well. Tom Melvin (TEs coach) has done an excellent job and all the TEs who play for Tom play at a high level. He does a heck of a job coaching that position. Every time we gave Brent a little bit more last year, he succeeded. We would give him a little bit more and he would succeed. A little bit more, a little bit more. That's the way it went all season. "Brent is a player who is a consistent performer. I think it is important to know what Brent's strengths are and you work him there. He produces. He is consistent. He is dependable. You call his number and he's going to get it done. You call a run to his side and he's going to get it (block) done. You call a run away from him and he is going to get the cutoff block. He is just so consistent and dependable, and there is a trust factor that goes into it. Coaches and the rest of the players naturally trust the man to get the job done, and that is so very important."

QB Brett Favre consulted renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews this week regarding his injured throwing shoulder, according to a report. On Thursday night, ESPN.com reported Andrews and Favre experimented with an exercise that could help his partially torn biceps tendon release on its own, which could help the pain subside and allow him to return. Favre's consultation with Andrews is an indication that he's interesting in playing for the Vikings, especially if doesn't need surgery to play again. Favre has confided to friends that he will not have major reconstructive surgery. It's possible that less invasive arthroscopic surgery could help the quarterback play again and require just a 3-6 week rehabilitation process, but that would be "unappealing" for Favre.

The Falcons re-signed WR Troy Bergeron after camp ended. The team had released him just last week.

I’m not into Twitter, so I don’t spend my mornings checking the account of agent Drew Rosenhaus, who represents disgruntled Cardinals Anquan Boldin and Darnell Dockett. But it seems Rosenhaus is Tweeting about his clients nearly every day, saying he expects them to be traded or how Boldin isn’t asking for $10 million per year or how Dockett is worth a first-round draft pick.
I’m not sure what game Rosenhaus is trying to play, but I do know this: The Cardinals don’t respond well when their business becomes public fodder. Rosenhaus is doing his clients a disservice if he thinks he can Tweeter the Cardinals into doing something they don’t want to do.

The Redskins signed WRs Roydell Williams and Trent Shelton and released OL Isaiah Ross, WR John Halman, LB Ronnie Palmer, TE Devin Frischknecht and DT Brigham Harwell. . . . Veterans Clinton Portis, LaRon Landry, Mike Sellers, London Fletcher, James Thrash, Santana Moss and Hunter Smith were not present at yesterday's voluntary workouts. Carlos Rogers was in attendance but did not participate. "His knee's just a little swollen," Zorn said. "He's just sore. I just appreciated him coming out and not just blowing us off and saying, 'See you later.' That was nice."

The first three players drafted by the Redskins a year ago are rookies no more and, after a season of disappointment, face expectations increased by the knowledge that Coach Jim Zorn's hopes of diversifying and expanding the offense rest with them, embattled QB Jason Campbell and a beleaguered offensive line. Already this spring, merely keeping WRs Thomas and Kelly healthy has been difficult. On the 1st day of the team's 3-day minicamp Friday, Thomas re-aggravated the right hamstring injury that sidelined him for much of 2008 training camp. Kelly did not participate, as his left knee continues to heal from microfracture surgery. Both are expected to be able to participate in organized team activities in June.

They’re the forgotten members of the receiving corps, two draft picks from 2007 whose uphill climb got even steeper of late. One is Paul Williams, the other Chris Davis. Neither has to be reminded of their current status after the Titans signed veteran WR Nate Washington in March and then used their 1st round draft pick on another wideout, Kenny Britt. “Once I heard we’d taken a receiver in the 1st round it was one of those things like, ‘OK, it’s time to work,’ ’’ said Williams, a 3rd-round pick in ’07. “But really, any time you are in this building there is a sense of urgency. I was ready to work anyway.’’ Davis, a 4rth-round pick that year, also knows the feeling of standing on unsteady ground. Williams and Davis certainly have no time to waste, but an argument could be made that they already wasted the past 2 seasons. The Titans needed playmakers at the position, yet neither could be counted on.

Titans HC Fisher said Tuesday he was "pleased" with the results of WR Drew Bennett's physical but the team hadn't decided whether to sign him. Bennett was a Titan from 2001-06 before signing a 6-year, $30 million deal with the Rams. St. Louis released him Feb. 25 after 2 injury-plagued seasons, including foot damage last year that eventually landed him on IR. Bennett visited Baptist Sports Park on Monday and underwent a physical. Citing confidentiality, Fisher would not say if Bennett passed the physical. The coach did say, "Drew is healthy now," however. "We just had Drew in for a physical and we do that periodically with players that are available. You just want to bring them in and get him checked out in case there is some interest down the line,'' Fisher said.

TE Kellen Winslow isn’t the only veteran missing form the Bucs “voluntary’’ workouts. Linebacker Barrett Ruud and wide receiver Maurice Stovall are absent as well today. Several other players, including defensive end Styles G. White, cornerback Aqib Talib and long snapper Andrew Economos are present but not participating. None of the absentees are away without leave. The Bucs said all told the team before the workouts began that they would not be present for this week’s workouts.

There’s a “breaking news item’’ out on the internet saying Brian Griese could be let go by the end of the week. Really? Anyone who follows the Bucs at all has known since before the draft that Griese was not going to be part of this team this year and that he’d be let go at some point during the offseason. Why? Because Brian Griese was Jon Gruden’s QB. Case closed. Griese may still be a serviceable NFL QB, but he’s of little service to a Bucs team looking for upside at the QB position. The only reason the Bucs didn’t let Griese go when they let Derrick Brooks, Joey Galloway, Warrick Dunn, Ike Hilliard and Cato June go was because the Bucs held out a glimmer of hope of trying to get something in return for him. They’re still holding out hope. Despite being turned down on trade offers that went out before, during and after the draft, the Bucs are still hoping to get a little something for Griese.

Buccaneers RB Earnest Graham is ready for the season to begin now. Graham said has fully recovered from last year's season-ending ankle injury against Minnesota. In addition, Graham said if the season began today, he would be ready to play. "I'm fine. I'm at 100 percent," Graham said. "I'm ready to rock. I'm good."

A healthy Rams TE Randy Mcmichael figures to be a key component in the West Coast-style offense that new coordinator Pat Shurmur is installing, 1st-year coach Steve Spagnuolo pointed out. "The defense has to be concerned about the TE, or else there are so many other things you can do to take away the wideouts," the former Giants DC said. "So, having a tight end that can stretch the field vertically, I think it's huge." McMichael recalled a conversation he had a few years ago with Tony Gonzalez, then the Chiefs' TE. "He said, 'The West Coast offense is probably the best offense a tight end can be in,'" McMichael said. "I didn't really realize that until I got here and saw what Coach Shurmur is putting in. "There are so many throws underneath. Everybody knows the West Coast offense is, get the ball out of (the quarterback's) hands fast and get the ball to your playmakers and let them do what they do. I'm just really excited to be a part of it." After the releases of Torry Holt and Drew Bennett, the Rams' corps of WRs is young and largely inexperienced. That means that McMichael could be an even more frequent target for QB Marc Bulger.

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson did an interview with ESPN News from a Nike event at U.C.-Irvine, where Nike is launching its latest training shoe. Here is a transcript of his interview: Q: So you are putting on weight? Peterson: ”I’m trying to put on a couple of pounds. It’s a long season, you take a lot of wear and tear during the season. Just bulk up a little bit to be able to endure that. Really make guys feel me even more when I come through the hole. That’s pretty much what that’s all about.” Q: How much have you gained?
Peterson: ”Right now, I’m probably like about 217, 218 but solid. It’s muscle. Make sure I’m putting the pounds on in the right spot, the right areas.” Q: How are you making sure you don’t slow down? Peterson: ”Just doing the things that I’ve been doing. My agility work, my flexibility. Flexibility is definitely key I think to keeping your speed, maintaining your speed. But just really, most important than that, just your mindset. A lot of guys say, ‘You [gain] 5, 10 pounds it’s going to slow your do a notch or this or that.’ My mindset, I feel like I can put on 20 pounds and keep my same speed, my same flexibility. That’s the mindset I have. So, I feel like I can accomplish that.”

According to multiple reports, the Ravens have agreed to terms of a one-year contract with WR Kelley Washington. The team will not officially confirm the addition until Washington completes a physical and actually signs his contract. If he does over the weekend, Washington will be able to participate in Baltimore’s passing camp next week (Monday – Thursday).

Several teams are interested in signing former Cardinals RB Edgerrin James. However, EJ will take his time to make sure he signs with the right team.

The 49ers igned linebacker Scott McKillop and defensive end Ricky Jean-Francois to four-year contracts.

The Jaguars waived defensive back Chad Nkang and running back Mike McLendon.

Chargers WR Malcom Floyd, a restricted free agent, has yet to sign the 2nd-round tender he was offered in February. The tender would pay Floyd $1.54 million in 2009, about 2 1/2 times his '08 salary. Not being under contract, Floyd doesn't have to show up for offseason workouts, and he skipped minicamp this month. According to numerous sources, Floyd has let teammates and others in the organization know he is following the advice of his agent. Neither Floyd nor his agent, Buddy Baker, have responded to numerous messages this offseason.

Eagles WR DeSean Jackson enters the coming season as the de facto receiving ace. He led the team in receptions with 62, receiving yards with 912, and yards per catch with 14.7, and set franchise rookie records for wideouts in each category. "I still feel like I have to go out there and get my job done and still produce," Jackson said. "It's not about proving, it's about progressing and just getting better. I'm definitely looking to take my game to another level." His elevation was evident during the first 3 days of the minicamp. "He's playing faster," HC Reid said. "He knows what he's doing. I'm comparing it to when he came to this camp the first time. It was all new to him, so he wasn't moving quite as confidently or as fast as he is now." Reid wasn't implying that Jackson had improved his time in the 40-yard dash. He was saying that a year's experience had slowed things down, the speed of the pro game always being the biggest adjustment for a rookie. Jackson said he also had "gotten a lot stronger, lifting weights. . . . I feel great right now."

Although there has been a thaw in talks between the Jets and the agent for unhappy RB Leon Washington, the fourth-year pro will be a no-show again Thursday at the Jets' organized team activities, according to a person with knowledge of the contract standoff. That person spoke on the condition of anonymity. The Jets are scheduled to take the field around 11 a.m. in a session that is open to the media. With veteran Thomas Jones also skipping the voluntary sessions, the Jets' running game will be handled by the likes of first-year free agent Danny Woodhead. Rookie Shonn Greene can't attend workouts until the semester at Iowa is over later this month.

Bucs RB Earnest Graham is ready for the season to begin now. Graham said has fully recovered from last year's season-ending ankle injury against Minnesota. In addition, Graham said if the season began today, he would be ready to play. "I'm fine. I'm at 100 percent," Graham said. "I'm ready to rock. I'm good." Graham's recovery is good news for Tampa Bay, which plans to run the ball more this season with him and Derrick Ward, the former Giants RB who signed with the Bucs this offseason.

The Ravens have reached agreement with unrestricted free-agent WR Kelley Washington, who auditioned for the team at last weekend's minicamp. Terms of the agreement, confirmed by sources close to the team and to Washington, were not yet available. Washington will officially sign the contract by next Monday, after he passes a physical exam, and the Ravens commence their passing camp.

Jason Taylor rejoined the Dolphins on Wednesday, signing a reported one-year, $1.5 million contract. Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland and agent Gary Wichard were in negotiations since early Wednesday morning and the sides reached a deal Wednesday afternoon.

The Buffalo Bills and running back Fred Jackson have agreed to terms on a contract extension. The team announced the agreement but did not disclose terms of the deal. Jackson was an exclusive rights free agent so he couldn't negotiate with any other team. The Bills had made him a minimum contract offer of $460,000 under which Jackson would have played had a new deal not been negotiated.

The Falcons signed linebacker Rashad Bobino.

The Ravens placed offensive tackle Willie Anderson on the reserve/retired list.

The Bills agreed to terms on a contract extension with running back Fred Jackson.

The Bills signed defensive end Jermaine McGhee and defensive back Kyle Ward; released linebacker Vince Hall.

The Jaguars Signed quarterback Todd Bouman.

The Jets re-signed tight end Bubba Franks.

I offer up this tidbit for the enjoyment of those who find the ongoing debate on the Browns QB situation to be insatiable. I recently spoke with someone I will identify as a league source. This person does not work for an NFL team but works with NFL teams and has a prominent name. I asked, "Whom do you think will wind up starting at QB for the Browns?" Without hesitation, the answer was, "Brady Quinn." The person went on to say that the Browns had two "very subtantial" trade offers for Quinn - each involved a #1 draft pick -- and declined to trade him. The source would not speculate on whether a trade of Quinn might have been blocked by owner Randy Lerner. The source believes that there will be a true "open competition" between Quinn and Derek Anderson and that Quinn will prevail.

The source does not believe that newly acquired ex-Jet Brett Ratliff will be thrown into the open competition.

Eagles TE Brent Celek - There is no question now that he's the starter on offense. Last season, Celek assumed the starting job late in the season and finished with a career-high 27 catches for 318 yards in the regular season. But it was the playoffs where he shined with 19 catches for 151 yards and 3 TDs. We all know that he had an outstanding performance in the NFC title game with 10 catches for 83 yards and a pair of TDs. And of course, everyone wants to know about his blocking. Well, his rookie season of 2007 was hampered by a shoulder injury that didn't get fixed until the off-season. With the surgery in January of 2008, Celek wasn't able to effectively workout in the off-season. Now he's healthy, he's spent the entire off-season in Philadelphia and is ready to go.

Eagles FB Leonard Weaver - He's been in the league for four years already, so why is he considered a candidate? The versatile and athletic Weaver has just 356 rushing yards and 547 receiving in 46 regular season games. Yet, he was offered the chance this past off-season to be more of a feature back in Houston where he would be the big back to complement Steve Slaton. However, Weaver's familiarity with the system used in Philadelphia and the opportunity to be a blocker, a runner and a receiver - in Weaver's words a true "halfback" - was too good to pass up. Weaver displayed his deft ability to catch the ball at the post-draft mini-camp and can be relied on to help shoulder the load in the backfield should Brian Westbrook or LeSean McCoy falter.

Eagles WR Jason Avant - This was a tough one. You can't expect a rookie to have a breakout season. And is DeSean Jackson sneaking up on anyone at this point? Offensive line? You could make the case for Stacy Andrews, but he's not all the way back yet. You could say Shawn Andrews if he makes the move to tackle on a permanent basis, but he is a 2-time Pro Bowl player. Here's why I picked Avant. He's the top slot WR. It's not going to be Kevin Curtis after the addition of Jeremy Maclin. Curtis is an outside WR in Philly. Just because he's white and small, he's not NE's Wes Welker. Curtis, Jackson and hopefully Maclin will be able to stretch the field better this year than in year's past. Avant isn't quick and he's not stellar after the catch, but he is outstanding in his ability to run routes over the middle of the field and will make the tough catches. If defenses have to pay attention to the outside threats more and if Celek and Cornelius Ingram can be effective out of the tight end spot, Avant should be able to clean up any mess defenders leave behind.

The team's non-pursuit of a high-priced available WR is another indication Miami doesn't believe it is close enough to being good now to give up future draft picks or spend big to be better immediately. The Dolphins might have been able to land Arizona's Anquan Boldin on draft weekend in exchange for their #1 draft pick (25th overall), but they wouldn't pull the trigger because teams that think they are close to very good make that deal. Teams resigned to building from the ground up do not. Cleveland's Braylon Edwards is another top WR available, but it's the same story; another concession flag. A means of building up the stacks of chips gradually because you know it's pointless to go all in.
This same line of corporate thinking indicates pretty strongly that QB Chad Henne will be Miami's starter, given the ball from veteran Chad Pennington, the minute Henne is thought to be ready this season.

The Bears' signing of unrestricted free-agent TE Michael Gaines on Monday could present Kellen Davis, last year's 5th-round pick, with an uphill battle for a roster spot this year. Gaines, who also was courted by the Jets, signed a 1-year deal with a base pay of $620k, the veteran minimum, although he could earn as much as $1.25 million with incentives. With Greg Olsen and Desmond Clark doing most of the pass catching at tight end, the Bears want their No. 3 TE to be a powerful blocker. At 6-4 and 277 pounds, blocking is Gaines' forte. But the 29-year-old also had 23 receptions last season for the Lions, along with a career-high 260 receiving yards. With Carolina, Gaines even played some FB, serving as a lead blocker on running plays.

A few days before the start of their first minicamp, the Ravens shuffled their QB group, signing John Beck to a 1-year contract and cutting 3rd-stringer Todd Bouman. Beck, a 2007 2nd-round pick of the Dolphins, is expected to compete against Troy Smith for the Ravens' backup QB job. "He was a very productive college player, but what also impressed our scouts was how competitive he is," Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome said Monday. "We like to bring in good athletes who love to compete and he fits that." Beck, 27, who was released by the Dolphins last week, reportedly drew interest from 6 teams. He eventually chose the Ravens over the Jaguars.

the 49ers would be fools to not name Shaun Hill their starter for the 2009 season. Everything that has gone right for Hill has gone accordingly and he should be rewarded with the starting role. With an impressive 7-2 record as a starter, Hill does give the 49ers the best shot to win. But let's say that Hill does get the #1 spot on the depth chart. Who would be #2? You would think Alex Smith will take that spot, but Davis could be a solid challenge to Smith. Smith is the pet project of the Mike Nolan era. With that #1 overall pick status looming over Smith, the "bust" word starts to creep closer and closer around 49ers camp. The 49ers surprised some by restructuring Smith's contract to keep him around. But if he does not perform well, he should not be rewarded the #2 spot. If Davis does play better, Smith's career in SF might as well be over.

Smith says that he has fully recovered from off-season shoulder surgery and would be ready to handle the upcoming battle for the starting job. But with a lot of uncertainty behind Smith, Davis would probably benefit from the battle for the #2 spot on the depth chart.

Drew Bennett met with the Tennessee Titans about returning to his first team to help shore up their receiving corps. Bennett visited the Titans' headquarters Monday. Tennessee is where Bennett got his start as an undrafted free agent out of UCLA in 2001, and he led the team in receptions for two of his six seasons here.

Former Jaguars WR Reggie Williams must serve 2 years of probation for cocaine possession in a case in which a Taser was used to subdue him. Williams on Monday pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance. A judge sentenced the 25-year-old unrestricted free agent to deferred adjudication and fined Williams $200. District attorney's office spokeswoman Donna Hawkins told The AP that Williams will face random drug testing in Harris County. Hawkins says Williams will not have a felony conviction on his record if he successfully completes probation.

The Vikings broke their silence Monday, with president Mark Wilf saying the team is considering the supposedly retired star.
"He's a Hall of Fame QB. He's a great competitor," Wilf said. "Ultimately, you'll have to ask Brett what his plans are, but sure there's interest in Brett Favre. But again, it's part of a process we have in general with any of our players. We're always looking to make our team better."

The Patriots signed wide receiver Terrence Nunn.

The Bears came to terms Monday on a 1-year contract with TE Michael Gaines, who spent last season playing for Detroit.

Chiefs QB Matt Cassel is the starter. The Chiefs also have backups Tyler Thigpen, Brodie Croyle and Ingle Martin. Croyle didn’t participate in a recent veteran minicamp. His season ended last October with a knee injury and surgery. Chiefs coach Todd Haley indicated Sunday that Croyle could be ready to play by the start of training camp in late July. If so, the Chiefs won’t be in need of another quarterback, at least in terms of numbers. “As it stands, yeah,” Haley said. “Croyle is the wild card right now just on when we’re going to get him back. We’re hoping that before camp he’ll be ready to go.

“We’ll keep all options open and we’ll talk about these guys that were in here this weekend and anyone else that’s available or becomes available.”

Nick Folk's off-season work has been put on hold as he begins rehabilitation from right hip surgery. On Tuesday noted specialist Dr. Marc Phillipon repaired a labral tear in Folk's hip. He is expected to resume light kicking in two months and fully recover by training camp, which begins in late July. "They said the worst that could happen is that I'd be 100 percent by the beginning of training camp, so training camp might be just me getting my legs under me," Folk said. Folk said his hip bothered him for the final five weeks of the 2008 season.

Raiders DE Derrick Burgess did not practice because of a stomach virus. ... DT Gerard Warren sat out Sunday with a strained pectoral muscle. ... Cable named LB David Nixon and tight end Chris O'Neill as undrafted free agents who impressed.

WR Darrius Heyward-bey , the 7th overall pick of the NFL draft, missed a 2nd straight practice Sunday with cramping, soreness and fatigue in his hamstring, Raiders coach Tom Cable said at the conclusion of the 5-practice, 3-day minicamp in Alameda. Second-round safety Mike Mitchell and f4th-round WR Louis Murphy also missed the final practice. Cramping, soreness and fatigue, Cable said. The shut-down moves were precautionary, precautionary and precautionary, he added. "You just want to be smart with them," Cable said. "It's the toughest transition for the rookies with all the running that we do. They obviously made plays, but you could see at times they struggled a little bit. "Now that they have had a taste of it, they will be better prepared coming into OTAs."

The Ravens were missing a multitude of key players for camp, as evidenced by the various red mesh jerseys that were so prevalent on the sidelines. On the offensive line, Anderson and Terry were joined by starters Marshal Yanda (knee) and Ben Grubbs (ankle). TE "L.J." John Smith (sports hernia) did not play, while Derrick Mason (shoulder), Michael Clayton (undisclosed) and Williams (ankle) were not available. Defensively, CBs Fabian Washington (neck/shoulder), Chris Carr (shoulder), Frank Walker (shoulder) and Samari Rolle (groin) were also held out. Everyone is expected to make a full recovery, but Mason’s timetable is the most uncertain. When speaking to the media on Sunday, he hinted that there is a chance he could miss training camp after getting surgery to repair his scapula and labrum.

“The only thing I can say for certain, well not even for certain, but if everything continues to progress the way it has been, I’ll be ready for the first game,” he said.

Le’Ron McClain led the Ravens with 902 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns last season. Still, that doesn’t mean McClain will be back toting the rock full-time in 2009. Because Lorenzo Neal was not re-signed (he recently inked with the Raiders), McClain could revert to his original role leading ball carriers. McClain has stated that he accepts the potential change, but will still make the most out of every attempt he can take from Willis Mcgahee and Ray Rice. "I'm going to play it by ear," said the 260-pound McClain. "When I touch it, I'm going to show them I can still do it whether I'm at FB or not. I'm going to do my best to get Ray and Willis more yards.” McClain got a few chances over the weekend because McGahee was sidelined with a knee injury. “I know I'm the starting FB and I'm the 2nd HB, too, behind Ray with Willis not out there right now,” McGahee said. “When I get my chance again, I'm going to take advantage of it. They know what I can do."

Of all the changes QB Jeff Garcia has faced since signing a 1-year contract with the Raiders in the offseason, accepting a job as QB Jamarcus Russell's backup has been the most challenging. "It's not an easy role to accept because of the competitive nature that is within me," said Garcia, who has 116 starts in 10 NFL seasons. "I struggled with it when I was in Philadelphia. I had a hard time just sitting on the sideline watching." Russell, the #1 overall pick in the '07 draft, is the unquestioned starter in Oakland but is already beginning to feel the pressure after leading the Raiders to a 5-11 finish last year while throwing 13 TDs and 7 interceptions. At the NFL owners meetings in March, Coach Tom Cable told reporters Russell needed to take on more of a leadership role with the team and made veiled references to Russell's work ethic. Adding Garcia, the Raiders hope, will help Russell.

For the new 49ers offense, the established run will carry the team all season long. RB Frank Gore will now be relied upon to set the tone for the offense. The 49ers signed fullback Moran Norris this off-season and they expect him to help Gore return to his 2006 form. Norris was Gore's teammate in the running back's first two seasons as a starter. The 49ers also drafted running back Glen Coffee and they expect him to help Gore with the load. As Gore has been battling injuries the past two seasons, Coffee will be relied on to make this two-back system successful. With Gore, we should expect at least 300 carries from him this season. If he can handle the bulk of those carries, the 49ers will have established a solid running game that has eluded the team the past couple seasons.

Former Titans receiver Drew Bennett is scheduled to visit with team officials today, possibly the first step of his return to the team.

Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel, a former Heisman Trophy finalist who wasn't chosen in the NFL draft, agreed to terms with the Washington Redskins on Monday.

The Falcons signed wide receiver Troy Bergeron.

Ravens WR Derrick Mason could miss training camp this season but remains optimistic that he'll be ready for the start of the regular season. Mason, who has led the Ravens in catches for three of his four seasons here, had surgery to repair his scapula and the labrum in his left shoulder in February. He didn't practice during this weekend's mandatory minicamp. "I guarantee I'll be ready by the first game, that's all I can say," Mason said Sunday, the final day of the team's minicamp. "Everything else, we'll play it by ear." Asked if he would be ready for training camp in late July, he said, "Don't know. I really don't. All I can say for certain -- well, not even for certain -- if everything continues to progress the way it has been, I'll be ready for the first game."

While the coaches didn't signal a winner, Kelley Washington appeared to have the best showing of the 3 WRs trying out for the Ravens. Washington, a free agent who played for the Bengals and Patriots, stood out in Sunday's two-minute drill, diving to make one catch and pulling in a nice throw from Troy Smith for a TD. He punctuated the score with a shimmying dance in the end zone. "I was able to make some good plays and some bad plays," Washington said Sunday, the final day of the Ravens' mandatory minicamp. "But the thing I wanted to focus on was the individual drills. I wanted to show them that I could get in and out of routes and catch the ball. There's only so many things you can do in 5 practices." Now, the Ravens have to make a decision whether to sign Washington, Jerry Porter or Tab Perry over the next few days. Washington has received a contract for the veteran minimum from the Redskins.

Nate Burleson is running pass patterns again, effortlessly, like a gazelle. He's catching almost every ball thrown near him, like he's a touchdown leader again. Heck, he's even lining up as a scout-team defensive back, giving fellow Seahawks WRs someone to run against during offseason practices. Hey, did this guy really have reconstructive knee surgery eight months ago?
"I feel like I always have, like I'm the same player," Seattle's forgotten game-breaker said with a big grin this week. He had just finished three days of organized drills on the field with quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, the new coaching staff and every other Seahawk relieved Burleson is back.

If the New York Jets are still interested, the agent for WR Anquan Boldin says he expects the Cardinals will trade him. Using a Twitter account, agent Drew Rosenhaus writes: "I still believe Anquan will be traded before training camp. I hope to work together with the Cardinals to resolve this situation by then."
The Giants, Eagles, Titans and Ravens all may be interested also, even though the first three teams each drafted a wide receiver last month. Boldin has been rumored on the market for a long time, upset by his contract with the Cardinals in light of what teammate Larry Fitzgerald has received.

The swagger, cockiness and bold promises that too often define the position of NFL WR did not make its way yesterday into the Giants' rookie mini-camp, as their two new targets, Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Barden, caught everything in sight then vowed to work to gain respect and playing time. "I feel like I'm ready for the next step, but at the same time nothing is going to be given to me," said Nicks, the 1st-round pick out of N.C. "Nothing is going to be put right in my hand. I don't expect it to." It certainly was encouraging for the Giants to check out the morning practice session on the Giants Stadium turf and see the hands of their 1st-year draft picks on display. All of a sudden it wasn't so far-fetched to envision Nicks inhaling passes over the middle or Barden stretching his 6-foot-6 frame to snare the ball up where few can reach.

ESPN's Jeremy Schaap reported Friday that X-rays of Favre's right shoulder were sent to the Vikings and were being evaluated. If it is determined Brett Favre needs anything less than major surgery to repair issues related to his biceps tendon, Favre will unretire and sign with the Vikings. Yes, apparently, just like that. But if major surgery is required, Favre will remain retired. James "Bus" Cook, Favre's agent, told ESPN on Friday that he had no knowledge of any X-rays being sent to the Vikings. Of course, an MRI might have been sent instead. Cook still insists Favre hasn't told him about any plans to unretire - which would be a plausible first step in the process. The Journal Sentinel reported Wednesday that the health of Favre's right arm would ultimately decide whether he unretired for a 2nd time. Sources said then that Favre had a significant tear in the biceps tendon. If the injury proves to be relegated solely to the tendon and is a partial tear, Favre will likely play again. He could undergo a simple procedure, a tenotomy, where surgeons complete the tear of the biceps tendon - something that is not needed for a quarterback to throw. The rehab would be quick and Favre would be ready for training camp.

Veteran wide receiver Javon Walker underwent surgery on his right knee a few weeks ago. Cable said the Raiders learned about the surgery this week. "Yeah, it is a little bit uncommon," Cable said of not knowing about a player's surgery until after the fact, "but we're aware of it now, and it was probably the right thing to do and get it cleaned up." Cable said Walker won't be ready to resume playing until training camp in late July

The Raiders added what they hope is the final piece to their roster by signing fullback Lorenzo Neal. Neal, 38, is a 16-year veteran who has played for seven teams since he entered the NFL in 1993 with the Saints. "The experience he brings can help mold those young fullbacks in there," Raiders Coach Tom Cable said. "That guy has proven over time that he probably can run any run scheme in the NFL because he has been in them all, and been very good. "I'm not sure there's been as good a lead blocker in football maybe in the last 15, 20 years as that guy.

Heyward-Bey began his indoctrination into the NFL on Friday at the first day of Oakland's mandatory mini-camp, showing signs of the big-play ability that attracted the Raiders, and the inexperience he has to overcome after leaving college a year early. Take that play against Asomugha. Heyward-Bey tipped off the route with his eyes, a mistake that might not have been an issue against college cornerbacks but is a big mistake against the more experienced competition in the NFL. "There's some easy giveaways right now. I'll talk to him about that stuff," Asomugha said. "I saw his eyes. He can't give it away with his eyes, but this was his first practice. I wasn't watching him so I don't know how well he did. But he has speed and speed is always a threat."
Heyward-Bey didn't get to show off the blazing speed that made him the fastest player at the NFL combine and helped contribute to the Raiders' much-questioned decision to pick him seventh ahead of more heralded receivers Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin.

The Falcons will use TE Tony Gonzalez as a complement to WR Roddy White and RB Michael Turner, further expanding their possibilities on offense. Already Gonzalez is impressed with the passing of QB Matt Ryan. “He is very good,” Gonzalez said. “That’s one thing that stood out was how accurate he is. … He commands attention in the huddle. That’s indicative of a great player and a great leader.”

TE Tony Gonzalez, likely a Hall of Fame member someday, shook off some rust while making his Falcons debut during mini-camp on Friday. “I haven’t run anything since the Pro Bowl,” Gonzalez said. “Besides, my head was spinning a little bit from learning all of the language of this offense.” Gonzalez ran his routes with the grace of an oversized ballet dancer and plucked Matt Ryan’s passes out of the air with ease. It was a delightful sight to the Falcons coaches, who have been on a mission to find a pass-catching tight end who can block and run vertical routes. “It’s big for us to pick up Tony,” Ryan said. “He’s one of the greatest players of all time.” “I’ve been very impressed,” Ryan said. During the drills, Ryan acknowledged throwing more passes to the tight end position. “Anytime that you get a new toy, you want to try it out,” Ryan said. “I threw a couple of balls his way, and he didn’t disappoint. He made some good catches. He does a great job of getting open. I’m just excited to have him here.”

Ravens RB Willis Mcgahee doesn't know when he'll be running yet, but the Ravens running back said he would be fully recovered for the start of training camp in late July. He was sidelined Friday because he is coming off arthroscopic surgery. A team official indicated that McGahee had surgery on his knee, but the seven-year veteran said it was his ankle.

Demetrius Williams, the Raven's third receiver, practiced even though he considers himself 80 percent since having ankle surgery. He looked fine running and cutting, but he walked with a limp. "Really, walking hurts more than running," Williams said. "I think when I'm running I've kind of trained my mind to run smoothly, not to think about it. But when I'm walking, I feel it because it's a slower motion. I'm probably going to walk with a limp for a little while, but as long as I can run, I'm alright."

The Rams released linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa.

The Broncos signed running back Darius Walker.

The Ravens signed punter fullback Jason Cook, linebacker Dannell Ellerbe, kicker Graham Gano, cornerbacks Kevin Gerard and David Jones, defensive lineman Will Johnson, wide receivers Eron Riley and Isaiah Williams, center Greg Ryan, linebacker/defensive ends William VanDeSteeg and Luis Vasquez and quarterback Drew Willy.

Ravens outside linebacker/defensive end Terrell Suggs was not present for the opening of the team's veteran minicamp Friday.
Suggs' absence was expected because the three-time Pro Bowl player has not signed his franchise tender, which was offered by the Ravens in February. By rule, a player cannot participate in NFL camps until the tender is signed. Suggs and Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome are still negotiating in hopes of reaching a long-term deal.

The health of QB Brett Favre's throwing arm appears to be a pivotal factor in whether he comes out of retirement to play for the Vikings. A source close to the situation told ESPN's Jeremy Schaap on Friday that X-rays of Favre's right shoulder -- he has pain resulting from a torn biceps tendon -- have been sent to the Vikings and that the X-rays are in the process of being evaluated. If it is determined by Favre's and the Vikings' medical people that he needs anything less than "major" surgery on his shoulder, Favre will un-retire to play for the Vikings, the source said.

Tight end Zach Miller had offseason sports hernia surgery and is probably about a month away from taking the field, he said following practice. Others who did not practice included defensive end Derrick Burgess, fullback Oren O’Neal, wide receivers Arman Shields and Javon Walker and center Samson Satele. More information to come later following interview sessions with selected players and coach Tom Cable.

Raiders receiver Javon Walker had knee surgery last month and told the team about it just a few days ago, coach Tom Cable said.
That's why Walker is not practicing at today's mandatory minicamp. Cable admitted it's "uncommon" for players to undergo surgery like this without informing the team until weeks later. He did not elaborate very much, only saying it was probably the right thing to do (have the surgery, not necessarily the secret).
Cable said Walker's ankle is fine. He had season-ending ankle surgery midway through last season.

The Redskins signed wide receiver Keith Eloi; released punter Zac Atterberry

The Rams acquired defensive tackle Orien Harris from the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for running back Brian Leonard.

The Chiefs signed cornerbacks Jackie Bates and Londen Fryar, linebackers Jovan Belcher, Corey Smith and Pierre Walters, tight end Tom Crabtree, defensive ends Dion Gales and Robert Greenwood, offensive tackle Cameron Goldberg, guard Darryl Harris, wide receiver Taurus Johnson and safety Ricky Price.

The Giants drafted Travis Beckum in the 3rd round April 26. Beckum will take part in the Giants' rookie minicamp Friday and Saturday. It's been years since the Giants have had an H-back like him, a weapon who can create mismatches with linebackers and safeties. At 6-3, 243 pounds, Beckum won't be asked to do much blocking. The Giants aren't quite sure what they'll be asking him to do. Like the staff at Wisconsin, the Giants will be designing new plays to maximize Beckum's abilities at a seldom-used position.
"It'll be fun to do that," Tom Coughlin said. "There are certain things you try to feature or develop with that particular kind of player." Beckum will get a better idea of those things beginning today.

After trying out for the Broncos Wednesday, former Notre Dame RB Darius Walker signed with the NFL team on Thursday. Walker is one of four former ND players in Denver's training camp and one of 8 running backs. Ryan Harris is Denver's starting right offensive tackle. Rookie safety David Bruton was a fourth-round draft choice last month. Rookie wide receiver David Grimes signed as a free agent.

While Washington added serious talent this offseason to its fourth-ranked defense, the Redskins barely tinkered with their laggard offense. Other than relying on improvement by the players during their s2nd season in coach Jim Zorn's West Coast attack, the Redskins are counting on a quantum leap by 2nd-year WR Devin Thomas to make their offense more dynamic. Zorn also expects more from Thomas' fellow 2008 2nd-round pass-catchers, Malcolm Kelly and Fred Davis. But Kelly's oft-repaired left knee still isn't right, and Davis remains stuck behind Pro Bowl TE Chris Cooley. That leaves it to Thomas to rise from dud to stud. "We're looking for one sure starter out of those guys," Zorn said. "We play a lot of our stuff with 3 WRs, and I want to put Antwaan [Randle El] in the slot. You'd like to see one guy completely take over the position, but all those guys are going to play. Those [young] guys have to make a statement. I need to see a lot of changes."

Brett Favre remains retired -- for now -- despite reports that Vikings HC Childress planned to meet with him this week and try to talk him into coming to the team. Bus Cook, Favre's agent, told ESPN's Rachel Nichols and another reporter Thursday that Favre "is retired'" and he doesn't know of any phone conversation or meeting with Childress. Thursday, Yahoo! Sports reported that Favre, 39, told Childress he will remain retired, according to a source close to the team. The Yahoo! report said that Favre told Childress of his decision in a phone call, and that he could "publicly explain his decision soon."

RB Brian Leonard’s agent, Mike McCartney confirmed that the deal had been finalized. “This is a great trade for Brian,” McCartney said. “I give the Rams credit for putting him in a great situation, with a great QB in Carson Palmer, where he can be a RB. They’re going to put him in the nickel (package) right away.” Later in the afternoon, the Rams formally announced the trade. “This move allows us to add more depth to our defensive line rotation,” coach Steve Spagnuolo said in a statement. After releasing Chris Perry recently, the Bengals don’t have a clear No. 2 RB behind starter Cedric Benson. The Bengals’ offseason roster currently includes Lindenwood University product Dede Dorsey, Kenny Watson and sixth-round draft pick Bernard Scott at RB.

Vikings coach Brad Childress has been spotted at team headquarters despite reports that he would be out of town meeting with retired QB Brett Favre. Twin Cities television station KMSP broadcast video of Childress arriving at Vikings headquarters in suburban Minneapolis early Thursday, and the coach was still at Winter Park shortly before noon local time. The Star Tribune cited unidentified people with knowledge of the situation in reporting Childress was expected to travel south to meet with Favre on Wednesday night and have further discussions Thursday. The 18-year veteran lives in Mississippi. The Vikings aren't commenting.

The whereabouts of Vikings coach Brad Childress were of great interest Thursday as he reportedly prepares to meet with retired QB Brett Favre sometime Thursday in Mississippi. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reported that Childress left town Wednesday night on a commercial flight and was scheduled to meet with Favre sometime Thursday at the player's home in Hattiesburg. Come Thursday morning, KMSP-TV in Minneapolis aired video showing a man appearing to be Childress entering Vikings headquarters. A source close to the situation told ESPN's Rachel Nichols that Childress did not leave the Vikings' complex in suburban Minneapolis until early Wednesday evening and that Favre and Childress did not meet Wednesday night. If Childress and Favre do talk, it is unclear where their meeting will take place, although it is believed they would meet face to face in Hattiesburg.

The Redskins signed defensive lineman J.D. Skolnitsky and linebacker Darrel Young.

The Bucs released wide receiver Anthony Mix.

The Texans signed running backs Arian Foster and Jeremiah Johnson, wide receivers Aubrey Bell and Mike Jones, punter Justin Brantly, offensive tackle Doug Dedrick and Jason Watkins, linebacker Toddrick Verdell, center Brett Helms, defensive end Tim Jamison, defensive tackles Josh Leonard and Jake Visser and guard Brandon Walker; released tight end Courtney Anderson.

Cowboys PK Nick Folk had surgery on his right hip Tuesday to repair a labral tear and is expected to need eight weeks to resume light kicking, which could allow him to return in time for training camp. "They said the worst that could happen is that I'd be 100% by the beginning of training camp, so training camp might be just me getting my legs under me," Folk said. "It just kind of sucks that it has to happen now, but we've got time to get it ready."

Titans DE Jevon Kearse had arthroscopic knee surgery recently and did not participate in Wednesday’s minicamp. Kearse has been limited in recent weeks following the procedure, confirmed by Titans HC Fisher after practice. He did rehab work inside on Wednesday and showed up at the end of practice at Baptist Sports Park. "It was minor," Fisher said of the procedure. "(Doctors) just cleaned it out."

Vikings Coach Brad Childress was at Winter Park early this afternoon but a source said he is expected to have dinner with QB Brett Favre this evening and begin discussions about Favre joining the Vikings.

The 11-year veteran is to push Lemon for backup duties. Todd Bouman agreed to terms Monday afternoon with the Jaguars and will join the team next week in time for the organized team activities that start May 18. Bouman's one-year deal, which is believed to be for the veterans' minimum, is the result of the team's desire to push current backup Cleo Lemon, who struggled last week at minicamp. The Jaguars carried two quarterbacks on the active roster last year, and it's expected the team will do the same this season. With the Jaguars opening competition for the No. 2 job behind David Garrard, the loser of that battle will likely be cut.

The Jaguars today waived three players and signed two rookies, both of whom participated in last weekend's minicamp. Waived were offensive tackle Stefan Rodgers, cornerback Isaiah Gardner and rookie quarterback Nathan Brown. Added to the roster were defensive tackle Nader Abdallah and defensive back Mesphin Forrester.

The Colts' talent pool at defensive tackle got deeper Tuesday when the team announced it had re-signed Ed Johnson, who was waived Sept. 11 after his arrest in Hamilton County on a charge of marijuana possession.

Going into the draft, several draft analysts said one of the biggest knocks on Georgia QB Matthew Stafford was his lack of accuracy, but Lions OC Linehan isn't buying it. Linehan said Stafford's numbers weren't as impressive because Georgia took more shots downfield in their passing attack. "It wasn't a dink-and-dunk deal and the reason they did that is because they could - he had the arm to do it,'' Linehan said. The numbers show that Stafford got better at those downfield throws throughout his college career. As a freshman, he completed 52.7% of his passes but his yards-per-attempt was just 6.83. Those numbers increased the following year to 55.7 and 7.25, respectively. Stafford made the biggest jump in his junior season - his final year in college - by completing 61.4% of his passes and his yards-per-attempt was 9.03. By the way, Mark Sanchez QBed the high-powered USC offense and his yards-per-attempt was 8.76. Linehan said that he and HC Jim Schwartz had a lot of discussions about Stafford prior to the draft.

The Cowboys announced the establishment of a trust fund Tuesday for injured scouting assistant Rich Behm, who suffered a spinal cord injury when the team's practice facility collapsed during a severe storm Saturday.

Since the Browns included no comment from coach Eric Mangini or GM George Kokinis in their official announcement of the signing of free agent WR Mike Furrey, here are Grossi thoughts: They no doubt have a good idea by now that Donte Stallworth will not be available to play in 2009. Although the Browns have no official legal counsel on staff - a somewhat glaring omission for an NFL club these days - it's not unreasonable to assume that Lew Merletti, the senior VP and 25-year veteran of the U.S. Secret Service, is all over this one. Stallworth has been away from the team for weeks to defend himself against a DUI manslaughter charge in Miami...

After two months of rumors and speculation about his future, the Bengals released Levi Jones on Wednesday. Jones was drafted in the first round by the team in 2002 and spent seven seasons there.

Shawn Nelson, the TE Buffalo chose in the 4th round of the NFL Draft last weekend, was one of the primary reasons why ESPN NFL analyst Trent Dilfer thought the Bills had the best draft of any team. "Winners to me are the teams that help themselves next year," Dilfer said shortly after the selection process was complete. "To me the big winner was the Buffalo Bills. I really think that the Buffalo Bills did a great job with helping them win football games next year." First-round picks Aaron Maybin and Eric Wood figure to play right away and 2nd-rounder Andy Levitre also has a good chance to be in the lineup on opening night in New England. Then there's Nelson, who may turn out to be one of the steals of the draft and could become the long-awaited solution to Buffalo's lack of production from the TE position. That's what ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. thinks.

Ravens who could be limited are: RB Willis Mcgahee, who recently had a procedure to clean out his knee; tight end Todd Heap (back); receiver Mark Clayton (unknown) and linebacker Antwan Barnes (chest).

Ravens WR Derrick Mason (shoulder surgery) won't participate in minicamp as a precautionary measure. The Ravens are interested in how much receiver Demetrius Williams (ankle) can handle.

The Ravens' cornerback group will have a number of players limited because of injury: Fabian Washington (shoulder surgery), Samari Rolle (groin), Chris Carr (shoulder surgery), Frank Walker (shoulder surgery) and Derrick Martin (shoulder). Some could wear red jerseys to help them avoid any contact.

Right now, neither has a team. Jason Taylor is home in Florida mulling his options. He has been trying to spark some interest from the Dolphins, who thus far haven't bitten.
Harrison's future remains in much greater doubt. He suffered a quadriceps tear last October that may prove career-ending, though he is at least considering a return for a 16th season. It's possible that one or both players end up in New England. At the moment, Taylor seems like the better bet, particularly after the Patriots added a pair of players at Harrison's position in the last week and a half while virtually ignoring Taylor's.
The Florida Sun-Sentinel recently reported that Taylor would like to make a decision in the next couple of weeks, and that as things stand now, the Patriots remain front-runners - in large part because the Dolphins don't appear interested.

Although no team selected Western Illinois RB Herb Donaldson during the NFL draft, he apparently was very much in demand afterward. The Saints, who outbid several NFL teams, signed him to a three-year contract, according to his St. Louis-based agent, Jason Fletcher. No other terms were disclosed. Donaldson, 5 feet 11, 220 pounds, finished as the school's leading rusher with 4,746 yards and 50 touchdowns. He will compete for a roster spot as a short-yardage and goal-line RB.

Running back Laurence Maroney vowed that he will silence his critics this season and prove to Patriots fans that he’s worthy of being a first-round pick. And recognizing that this is a make-or-break season, Maroney said he is confident he will respond. “Man, you know, you like to be confident,” Maroney said in a phone interview this morning. “You never want to say it’s not going to be your year. I just feel real confident about myself. I just feel like this has to be my year. There’s no other way around it. I just feel like I have to be better this year.”

Rumor moved a step closer to reality on Tuesday, when ESPN reported Favre and Vikings coach Brad Childress will meet this week to discuss the possibility of the legendary QB coming out of retirement a 2nd time to play a 19th NFL season in Minnesota. Just like last year, Minnesota is believed to be Favre's preferred destination if he decides to play again - something he has denied he'll do in the week since he was granted his release by the Jets, most recently in a one-word text message to ESPN on Monday. Unlike last year, when months of tension with the Packers culminated with a controversial August trade of the legendary QB to the Jets, Favre is a free agent and can choose his destination. Citing a source "with direct knowledge of discussions between the two parties," ESPN reported the meeting will take place at an undisclosed location, with the understanding that Favre will decide soon after whether to play for Minnesota.

Veteran free agent Larry Foote has agreed to terms of a one-year contract with the Lions, his agent, Ken Kremer, said in an email. Foote, a Detroit native and former Michigan All-American, met with team officials Tuesday and told the AP he expected the deal to be completed soon. "I'm excited because it's a fresh start for me," Foote told the AP. "It's a one-year deal to show my talents, and hopefully end up signing a long-term deal after showing the Lions and their new coaching staff what I can do." Lions officials confirmed this morning that Foote passed a physical, but haven't confirmed signing him.

The Cardinals signed tight end Dominique Byrd to a one-year contract.

The Bills signed long snapper Garrison Sanborn.

The Bears released running back Tyrell Fenroy.

The Browns signed wide receiver Mike Furrey.

The Vikings signed center Juan Garcia and guard Nick Urban.

The Patriots signed safety Brandon McGowan; released punter Tom Malone.

The Packers signed cornerback Trevor Ford, punter Adam Graessle, nose tackle/defensive end Dean Muhtadi and tackle Dane Randolph; released linebacker Jason Hunter.

The Patriots signed linebacker Vinnie Ciurciu, defensive tackle Steve Williams, punter Aaron Perez, running backs Omar Cuff, and Eric Kettani, wide receivers Robert Ortiz, Tyree Barnes, and Shun White.

The Seahawks signed fullback David Kirtman.

Vikings HC Brad Childress and quarterback Brett Favre plan to meet at an undisclosed location later this week to discuss the possibility of the former Packers and Jets quarterback renouncing his retirement from the NFL to play the 2009 season with the Vikings, according to a source with direct knowledge of discussions between the two parties.

Drew Stanton knows the situation now that the Lions have drafted quarterback Matthew Stafford No. 1 overall. But he isn't going to give up or try to force his way out. "It's one of those things that's going to be an uphill battle," Stanton said today after practice. "I'm aware of that. But it's a challenge that I'm going to have to try to overcome." Asked if he would like an answer about his future - if the Lions would let him go as soon as possible if he's not going to be in Detroit - he said: "I think that will eventually be discussed." But in the meantime, he's not going to entertain questions about leaving.

The Cardinals signed offensive tackle Oliver Ross to a one-year contract.

The Browns signed safety Bret Lockett; waived safety Corey Boudreaux, wide receiver Brent Casteel, tight end Mike Massey and cornerback Antonio Smith.

The Packers signed cornerback Trevor Ford, punter Adam Graessle, nose tackle/defensive end Dean Muhtadi and tackle Dane Randolph; released linebacker Jason Hunter.

The Jaguars waived offensive tackle Stefan Rodgers, cornerback Isaiah Gardner and quarterback Nathan Brown; signed defensive tackle Nader Abdallah and defensive back Mesphin Forrester.

The Jets signed defensive tackle Anthony Harris and tight end Jack Simmons.

The Bucs signed defensive end Jarriett Buie, wide receivers Pat Carter and Amarri Jackson, offensive lineman Marc Dile, offensive tackle Demar Dotson, ruunning back Kareem Huggins and cornerback Evan McCollough; released offensive tackle Andre Douglas, corenerback Greg Fassitt and wide receiver Paris Warren.

The Indianapolis Colts have signed quarterback Chris Crane of Boston College and linebacker Mike Tauiliili (taw-EE'-lee-EE'-lee) of Duke, both undrafted free agents. The Colts also waived linebacker Rufus Alexander and punter Mike Dragosavich. Alexander signed as a free agent with Indianapolis in December off the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad and was inactive in three games with the Colts. Dragosavich was cut by New England last June and by Cleveland in February.

"Larry has been a big part of our success, but unfortunately the realities of the salary cap made this decision inevitable," Steelers director of football operations Kevin Colbert said in a release. "We wish Larry and his family nothing but the best as he moves forward with his career." The move comes as anything but surprise. Foote, a starter at inside linebacker since 2004, had requested that the Steelers trade or release him so he can seek a bigger role on another team. Foote did not attend mandatory mini camp over the weekend after he and coach Mike Tomlin agreed that it was best if he did not show up for the practices. The Steelers are expected to save around $3 million in salary cap money for the upcoming season.

Star Tribune's Chris Miller and Judd Zulgad discuss Brett Favre and the Vikings.

Lions QB Matthew Stafford might have wanted to prove his $72 million, six-year contract on the first day of minicamp, but Lions coach Jim Schwartz said the rookie QB might have been a little too anxious to validate his total worth. "When you go through a first practice as a rookie, you're so anxious to get going and you're out of control," Schwartz said. "Then all of the sudden, later in practice, you start settling down -- I think we saw that in Matthew." Detroit held the first of its three-day minicamp for rookies Friday, allowing the Lions' scouting department the opportunity to evaluate their No. 1 overall draft pick. "He was wild with some throws, but then he started settling into a groove, started working together with some of the wide receivers and then all of the sudden you started seeing some better things later in practice," Schwartz said.

The Redskins have signed WRs Roydell Williams and Trent Shelton and released OL Isaiah Ross, wide receiver John Halman, linebacker Ronnie Palmer, TE Devin Frischknecht and DT Brigham Harwell.. Williams, a fourth-round pick by Tennessee in 2005, broke his ankle before a Titans' playoff game in January 2008 and was released by the team before last season. He has caught 84 passes for 1,139 yards and six touchdowns over his career.

Patriots RB Fred Taylor, who has a history of nagging injuries, recently suffered a sprained left wrist while he was exercising, according to medical sources. Taylor hurt the wrist when he fell on his outstretched left hand. It appears the injury occurred while Taylor was working out on his own in South Florida and not at Gillette Stadium under the team's supervision.
Taylor, who signed a two-year, $5 million deal to join the Patriots in February, sought treatment for the wrist injury on April 24, complaining of having pain for two days. A MRI scan did not reveal any fractures, dislocations or ligament damage and the initial diagnosis of a sprain was confirmed.

Rich Cimini writes in his column (The Jets Stream)... I think Rex Ryan made it abundantly clear, without really saying so, that his plan is to make Sanchez the opening-day starter. That's hardly a revelation, considering his draft status, but it's noteworthy that Ryan admitted he has an idea of how he expects the QB competition to play out. Immediately after the draft, I mentioned in a couple of places, like SNY's " Jets Nation," that Clemens is the favorite to be the opening-day starter. After being around minicamp, watching Sanchez and listening to Jets people, I'd like to amend that statement. Clemens has to be significantly better than Sanchez to win the job. If it's even, or if it's close, the only thing Clemens will get is a headset and a clipboard. The competition will kick into gear June 9-11, the full-squad minicamp. Let's see if Mr. Sanchez has the same success on those 20-yard outs when he's throwing against Revis and Lito Sheppard as opposed to Joe Tryout from Anonymous State.

The Lions released two wide receivers: Travis Taylor and Steve Sanders. They signed defensive end Eric Hicks, who played under Lions defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham in Kansas City.

The Lions have released running back Brian Calhoun, a third-round pick just three years ago. Injuries limited Calhoun to only 11 games in three seasons, and the Lions drafted another speedy back with return ability in the sixth round this year: Aaron Brown.

Two-year veteran quarterback John Beck, released by the Miami Dolphins last week, has
reached agreement with the Baltimore Ravens on a one-year contract. Financial details of
the contract, which is expected to be officially signed later this week, were not yet
available. The agreement was first reported by the Deseret News of Salt Lake City and
confirmed by a source close to Beck. With the Ravens, Beck will compete with veterans
Troy Smith and Todd Bouman for the No. 2 quarterback job behind starter Joe Flacco.

It's early May, so Marc Bulger can afford to be optimistic about the St. Louis
Rams' changes. Not too optimistic. The Rams have made several upgrades on offense,
signing big-ticket free agent center Jason Brown and drafting tackle Jason Smith with the
second pick. They've added a fullback and a blocking tight end to protect their highest-
paid player. It all sounds good, although Bulger noted he's been upbeat this time of the
year before.

Ladainian Tomlinson, whose return to San Diego was in doubt before he restructured his
contract in March, was smiling Sunday. He participated in all three days of the Chargers'
minicamp after a groin injury kept him from the team's final playoff game last season.
"L.T. looks great," coach Norv Turner said. "He has been out here running for a month,
so he didn't show anything different." Tomlinson didn't show any signs of his latest
injury. The NFL's record holder for touchdowns in a season is pleased with his offseason
preparations. "It's just good to get out and run around again," Tomlinson said. "And be
healthy."

Cardinals QB Kurt Warner says he's ahead of schedule in his recovery from
surgery to repair a hip injury that bothered him much of last season. Not that anyone
would have noticed at that time. Despite the injury, Warner had one of the best seasons of
his career and only got better in the playoffs, where he directed the Arizona Cardinals to
victories over Atlanta, Carolina and Philadelphia before going down in a spirited 27-23
loss to Pittsburgh in the Super Bowl.

A Cowboys scouting assistant was permanently paralyzed from the waist down
after his spine was severed during the collapse of the team's tent-like practice structure in
a severe storm. The team announced Rich Behm was in stable condition at Parkland
Hospital on Sunday after surgery to stabilize a fracture to the thoracic spine. The 33-year-
old Behm was among a dozen people hurt in the accident Saturday, and was one of three
Cowboys staffers who remained hospitalized. Joe DeCamillis, 43, the team's new special
teams coach, sustained a fracture of one of his cervical vertebrae without paralysis. He
was in stable condition at Parkland and scheduled for surgery today. Assistant athletic
trainer Greg Gaither, 35, had surgery Saturday night to repair a fracture to the tibia and
fibula in his right leg. He is expected to be released from the Baylor Regional Medical
Center later this week.

RB Selvin Young was released by the Broncos on Thursday.

The Bengals signed tight end Darius Hil, defensive tackle Pernell Phillips and long
snapper James Smith.

Vikings rookie WR Percy Harvin has been released from an Atlanta hospital after
being treated for extreme dehydration and a virus. Coach Brad Childress told reporters on
Friday that Harvin fell ill Thursday morning while changing planes in Atlanta en route to
the Vikings' rookie minicamp. He vomited multiple times in the airport, according to
Childress, and was attended to by paramedics. Harvin will continue his recovery at his
home in Gainesville, Fla.

Julius Peppers is no-show at Panthers minicamp. It would be understandable if Julius
Peppers' teammates were angry. First the four-time Pro Bowl defensive end announced
he had "maxed out" in Carolina and would never sign a long-term deal. Then he sought a
trade when the Panthers placed the franchise tag on him. The latest act of Peppers'
offseason of defiance came Friday when he was the only player missing from the start of
the Panthers' 3-day minicamp. Yet it was impossible to find anybody visibly upset or
concerned that the franchise's all-time sacks leader was in protest mode instead of
accepting a guaranteed deal that would pay him more than $1 million a game. "It's kind
of what I expected. He hasn't signed his tender yet," coach John Fox said. "I know he's
working out. He'll be in great shape."

Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring) worked on the side during Saturday's
minicamp workouts.

The Lions named Jeremiah Washburn assistant offensive line coach.

The Dolphins named Michael Dee chief executive officer.

The Packers signed wide receivers PatRick Williams, Jamarko Simmons, Kole Heckendorf and JaRon Harris, running back Tyrell Sutton, tight ends Carson Butler and Travis Dekker, linebacker Cyril Obiozor, guard-center Evan Dietrich-Smith, defensive end Ronald Talley and guard-tackle Andrew Hartline.

The Lions signed wide receiver Demir Boldin, linebacker Andrew Downey, center Dan Gerberry, defensive tackle John Gill and kicker Swayze Waters.

The Broncos named Lenny McGill assistant director of college scouting.

The Browns signed linebackers Marcus Benard, Jonathan Foster and Phillip Hunt, defensive backs Corey Boudreaux, Nate Ness, Antonio Smith, Jason Venson and Bryan Williams, offensive linemen Branndon Braxton and Marlon Davis, wide receivers Brent Casteel and Jordan Norwood, defensive lineman Adam Hoppel and tight end Mike Massey.

The Bengals signed wide receiver Quan Cosby.

The Lions signed offensive linemen Joel Bell and Nick Hennessey, defensive linemen John Faletoese, Ventrell Jenkins, David Lindquist and Gerald Washington, tight end Travis McCall, linebacker Ashlee Palmer, defensive back Lydell Sargeant and punter Dan Urrego.

The Cardinals re-signed guard Carlton Medder to a one-year contract.

The Lions named Jeremiah Washburn assistant offensive line coach.

The Chiefs drafted PK Ryan Succop - Pick 47, Round 7 (256)

The Chiefs named Phil Emery director of college scouting, Jim Nagy regional scout, Jay Muraco and Pat Sperduto area scouts; promoted Rod Perry to area scout.

The Jets signed tight ends J'Nathan Bullock and Rob Myers, punter T.J. Conley, tight end/long snapper Andrew Davie, wide receiver Britt Davis, defensive backs Emanuel Cook and Keith Fitzhugh, defensive tackle Matt Kroul, offensive lineman Kyle Link, offensive tackle Ryan McKee, center Michael Parenton, quarterback Chris Pizzotti, defensive end Zach Potter, fullback Brannan Southerland, defensive lineman Ty Steinkuhler, offensive tackle Tavita Thompson and defensive end Jamaal Westerman.

The Steelers signed defensive lineman Jeff Bradley.

The Patriots acquired tight end Alex Smith from Tampa Bay.

The Chiefs signed free agent center Eric Ghiaciuc.

The Browns claimed linebacker Bo Ruud off waivers.

The Bengals signed kicker Shayne Graham.

The Falcons signed free agent linebacker Edmond Miles.

The Redskins signed defensive tackle Vaka Manupuna.

The Bucs signed center Rob Bruggeman, safety C.J. Byrd, offensive tackle Andre Douglas, defensive tackle Rashaad Duncan, cornerbacks Marshall McDuffie and DeAngelo Willingham, guard Maurice Miller and running back Josh Vaughan.

The Steelers signed cornerback Keiwan Ratliff, punter Dirk Johnson, wide receivers Shaun Mcdonald and Jayson Foster, and kicker Piotr Czech; released long snapper Jared Retkofsky.

The Patriots drafted WR Brandon Tate - Pick 19, Round 3 (83)

The Jaguars drafted WR Mike Thomas - Pick 7, Round 4 (107)

The Dolphins drafted WR Patrick Turner - Pick 23, Round 3 (87)

The Jaguars drafted WR Tiquan Underwood - Pick 44, Round 7 (253)

The Steelers drafted WR Mike Wallace - Pick 20, Round 3 (84)

The Lions drafted WR DerRick Williams - Pick 18, Round 3 (82)

The Giants drafted TE Travis Beckum - Pick 36, Round 3 (100)

The Bucs drafted WR Sammie Stroughter - Pick 24, Round 7 (233)

The Browns drafted WR Brian Robiskie - Pick 4, Round 2 (36)

The Chiefs drafted WR Jake O'connell - Pick 28, Round 7 (237)

The Giants drafted WR Hakeem Nicks - Pick 29, Round 1 (29)

The Raiders drafted WR Louis Murphy - Pick 24, Round 4 (124)

The Redskins drafted WR Marko Mitchell - Pick 34, Round 7 (243)

The Broncos drafted WR Kenny Mckinley - Pick 5, Round 5 (141)

The Browns drafted WR Mohamed Massaquoi - Pick 18, Round 2 (50)

The Eagles drafted WR Jeremy Maclin - Pick 19, Round 1 (19)

The Texans drafted TE James Casey - Pick 16, Round 5 (152)

The Bengals drafted TE Chase Coffman - Pick 34, Round 3 (98)

The Titans drafted TE Jared Cook - Pick 25, Round 3 (89)

Jaguars The drafted TE Zach Miller - Pick 7, Round 6 (180)

The Cowboys drafted PK David Buehler - Pick 36, Round 5 (172)

The Redskins drafted TE Eddie Williams - Pick 12, Round 7 (221)

The Broncos drafted TE Richard Quinn - Pick 32, Round 2 (64)

The Cowboys drafted TE John Phillips - Pick 35, Round 6 (208)

The Lions drafted TE Brandon Pettigrew - Pick 20, Round 1 (20)

The 49ers drafted TE Bear Pascoe - Pick 11, Round 6 (184)

The Bills drafted TE Shawn Nelson - Pick 21, Round 4 (121)

The Dolphins drafted TE John Nalbone - Pick 25, Round 5 (161)

The Raiders drafted TE Brandon Myers - Pick 29, Round 6 (202)

The Ravens drafted TE Davon Drew - Pick 13, Round 5 (149)

The Lions drafted TE Dan Gronkowski - Pick 46, Round 7 (255)

The Texans drafted TE Anthony Hill - Pick 22, Round 4 (122)

The Eagles drafted TE Cornelius Ingram - Pick 17, Round 5 (153)

Steelers The drafted TE David Johnson - Pick 32, Round 7 (241)

The Seahawks drafted TE Cameron Morrah - Pick 39, Round 7 (248)

The Seahawks drafted WR Deon Butler - Pick 27, Round 3 (91)

The Bengals drafted WR Freddie Brown - Pick 43, Round 7 (252)

The Titans drafted WR Kenny Britt - Pick 30, Round 1 (30)

The Giants drafted WR Ramses Barden - Pick 21, Round 3 (85)

The Chiefs drafted RB Javarris Williams - Pick 3, Round 7 (212)

The Cardinals drafted RB Chris Wells - Pick 31, Round 1 (31)

The Bengals drafted RB Fui Vakapuna - Pick 6, Round 7 (215)

The Steelers drafted RB Frank Summer - Pick 33, Round 5 (169)

The Cardinals drafted RB Larod Stephens-howling - Pick 31, Round 7 (240)

The Bengals drafted RB Bernard Scott - Pick 36, Round 6 (209)

The Titans drafted RB Javon Ringer - Pick 37, Round 5 (173)

The Bears drafted WR Juaquin Iglesias - Pick 35, Round 3 (99)

The Chargers drafted WR Demetrius Byrd - Pick 15, Round 7 (224)

The Colts drafted WR Austin Collie - Pick 27, Round 4 (127)

The 49ers drafted WR Michael Crabtree - Pick 10, Round 1 (10)

The Chiefs drafted WR Quinten Lawrence - Pick 2, Round 6 (175)

The Bears drafted WR Johnny Knox - Pick 4, Round 5 (140)