Former Redskins coordinator Gregg Williams reportedly ran bounty system in Washington

The Washington Redskins reportedly rewarded players for big hits through a bounty system under defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, similar to the one unearthed in an NFL investigation into the New Orleans Saints.

Four players, three of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity, informed The Washington Post of details behind a bounty system under Williams. Three of the players said Williams gave out thousands for hits and paid premium dollars for “kill shots” that knocked a star player on the opposing team out of the game, the newspaper reported.

“You got compensated more for a kill shot than you did other hits,” said a former player, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Phillip Daniels, a former defensive lineman, was the only player who spoke to The Washington Post on the record. Now the team’s director of player development, Daniels spoke on the record and defended Williams’ coaching.

“I think it is wrong the way they’re trying to paint [Williams],” Daniels said. “He never told us to go out there and break a guy’s neck or break a guy’s leg. It was all in the context of good, hard football.”

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NFL investigates ex-Satints coordinator for bounty system

Players revealed compensation for hits were between “hundreds and thousands of dollars,” with the highest bounty paid out believed to be $8,000.

Daniels told The Washington Post he believed Williams started the bounty program with money collected from fines for players who were late to meetings or practice. He told the newspaper the most he received was $1,500 for a four-sack game against the Dallas Cowboys in 2005. Daniels said Williams gave out more money for what he deemed as “physical plays.”

However, other players said Williams was a “coach who just took it a little too far.”

“He actually had a saying, ‘If you cut the snake’s head off, the body will die,’ that was his motto,” said the player. “It was made clear that he was talking about not just running backs who turned their heads the opposite way and how they would go down, but also about other stars on offense that were the best players on that team.”

The NFL announced Friday that the Saints had an improper bounty system that paid players up to $1,500 for a “knockout” hit and $1,000 if opponents were carted off the field between the 2009-2011 seasons.

The Redskins declined to speak with The Washington Post through team spokesman Tony Wyllie.

Kurt Warner not surprised by Saints' bounty system

Former Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner said he wasn’t surprised by the NFL investigation that claims the Saints had a bounty system for defensive players from 2009-11.

“It’s definitely disappointing, but I won’t say that I’m completely surprised,” Warner told KTAR Radio in Phoenix via ProFootballTalk.com. “And, again, not necessarily the Saints, but I’m not surprised that there were teams out there doing those kinds of things behind closed doors.”

The Saints’ system, administered by former defensive coordinator Gregg Williams and funded primarily by defensive players, rewarded players for knocking offensive opponents out of a game. According to the investigation, the Saints targeted Warner and Brett Favre.

In Warner’s final game in the NFL—the Cardinals were defeated by the Saints in the 2009 playoffs—he took a big hit from defensive end Bobby McCray. As it turns out, the Saints had a bounty system at the time.

Warner said the hit against the Saints didn’t end his career. “No, absolutely not,” he said. “It was a nice exclamation point on it.”

Warner added, “It was a violent hit, no question. But I also believe it was a legal hit.”

Warner said he wasn’t aware of bounty systems during his career, but he said it would be naïve to think players don’t try to knock opponents out of games. According to the NFL investigation, Saints players were paid $1,500 for a "knockout" hit and $1,000 for a “cart-off.” Payments increased in playoffs.

“I think that’s part of the game, and I think that’s part of the mindset,” Warner said. “And I’m not going to tell you that I haven’t believed that there was probably defensive players that got together and said, ‘Hey, you know, a thousand bucks for the first guy to knock Kurt out of a football game.’ I’m sure that’s been a part of our league for a long time.”

Pittsburgh Steelers cut Chris Kemoeatu, will release Aaron Smith

The Pittsburgh Steelers continues to purge their roster.

The Steelers will cut defensive end Aaron Smith and the team cut guard Chris Kemoeatu on Thursday, according to multiple reports.

Kemoeatu, a seven-year veteran, started eight games for the Steelers in 2011, his lowest total since the 2007 season. The news was first reported by the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Aaron Smith, a productive defensive end in the team’s 3-4 scheme will also be cut, according to NFL.com.

These moves come on the heels of Wednesday's announcement that the club has released 14-year veteran Hines Ward, a wide receiver who helped the Steelers win two Super Bowls.

The four-time Pro Bowler was the MVP of Super Bowl XL.

Pittsburgh has also cut cornerback Bryant McFadden and wide receiver Arnaz Battle this offseason.

More cap causalities could come as well, with the agent for Steelers linebacker James Farrior expressing his concern that his client could be the next player released.

“It’s not a done deal, but the percentages just aren’t there,” Ralph Cindrich, Farrior’s agent, told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Cindrich said he has not yet talked with the Steelers. Farrior has been the team’s defensive captain for the past eight seasons.

Pittsburgh’s offseason has already been full of maneuvers to get under the cap for when the league year begins on March 13. The team has also been clearing cap space to discourage teams from making an offer sheet to restricted free agent wide receiver Mike Wallace. The team reportedly plans to place a first-round tender on Wallace.

So far this offseason the Steelers have restructured the contracts of offensive tackle Willie Colon, linebackers LaMarr Woodley and Lawrence Timmons, cornerback Ike Taylor and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

Report: New Orleans Saints, Drew Brees roughly $5 million a year apart on new deal

While contract talks between the New Orleans Saints and Drew Brees continue, the two sides are roughly $5 million a year apart on a new deal, according to a Yahoo! Sports report.

Brees will receive the franchise tag Monday if a long-term deal has not been reached, according to multiple reports.

The Saints also have other free agents to worry about, most notably wide receiver Marques Colston and guard Carl Nicks. Both players would certainly draw plenty of interest if they hit the open market.

The Saints have been busy trying to clear more room under the salary cap over the past few days, including a restructured deal for defensive end Will Smith. Yahoo! Sports speculates that linebacker Jonathan Vilma and defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis could also be released to free up approximately $11 million.

Oakland Raiders use franchise tag on safety Tyvon Branch

The Oakland Raiders have placed their franchise tag on strong safety Tyvon Branch, the team announced Thursday.

"We are pleased that Tyvon will return to the Raiders in 2012," Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie said in a statement. "Tyvon is a talented, productive player who we hope will be wearing the Silver and Black for many years to come. We will continue to work on a long-term deal to make that happen."

Branch has been a full-time starter for the Raiders the past three seasons, starting 48 consecutive games. Last season. Branch recorded 109 tackles and had a sack and an interception.

The franchise tag for safeties is expected to result in a salary of $6.2 million in 2012, down from $8.8 million last season, according to NFL.com.

By using the franchise tag on Branch, running back Michael Bush is likely to hit the open market when free agency open on March 13.

Philadelphia Eagles place franchise tag on DeSean Jackson

The Philadelphia Eagles have placed the franchise tag on wide receiver DeSean Jackson, the team announced on Thursday.

Jackson has been in the league for four years, all with the Eagles. He was scheduled to become a free agent on March 13.

Last season was a bit up and down for Jackson, as he was deactivated for a game for missing a special teams meeting and also held out at the start of training camp because he wanted a new contract.

"We want DeSean to be an Eagle for the long haul and this is a step in the right direction to accomplish that," Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said in a statement. "DeSean is a talented player and a proven playmaker in this league and we look forward to him continuing his career in Philadelphia. It's our understanding that he has the same desire. We will continue our efforts on getting a long-term deal done with him."

The franchise tag will keep Jackson with the Eagles for the 2012 season, at an estimated salary between $9.4 and $9.6 million. Jackson earned $600,000 last season in the final year of his rookie deal.

After the Eagles season-ending win over the Washington Redskins, Jackson said he wanted to be back with the team.

"I hope I will be here," he said. "These guys on this team and the fans, this is home," Jackson said.

In 15 games last season, Jackson had 58 receptions for 961 yards and four TDs. Jackson made the Pro Bowl in 2009 and 2010.

2012 NFL Scouting Combine: Georgia Tech's Stephen Hill stands out among skill players

INDIANAPOLIS—The NFL Scouting Combine's Sunday session featured quarterbacks, receivers and running backs. Here are the players who impressed and who struggled:

1. Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech, 6-4, 215, 33 3/8 arm, 4.36 (40 time)

Coming from a program like Georgia Tech and getting limited opportunities to show his receiving skills, the Combine was a huge opportunity. Hill aced his exams and impressed scouts with the day's fastest 40-yard time and fluid routes during drills. He also showed strong hands the ability to make acrobatic catches. Hill increased his value and should fly up draft boards with his combination of size and skills.

2. Chris Polk, RB, Washington, 5-11, 215 weight, 31 1/2 arm, 4.57 (40 time)

After looking a bit heavy at the Senior Bowl, Polk lost nine pounds and came to the Combine fit and trim. It was noticeable especially after knocking out a strong 40-yard dash. He accelerated quickly out of his cuts and looked more athletic in drills. Polk also answered questions about his skills as a receiver by running crisp routes and showing good-enough hands to be a three-down back at the next level.

3. Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame, 6-3, 220, 32 7/8 arm, 4.47 (40 time)

Floyd had a lot to potentially lose Sunday. After running very and working out so well, Floyd locked up the spot as the second-best receiver in this draft. For a man of his size, he showed a combination of speed, agility and burst coming out of his breaks as a route-runner. Additionally, he caught the ball well by plucking the ball with his hands without letting it into his body. NFL teams love to see a top prospect have the confidence to compete and prove his skills, which is exactly what Floyd did Sunday.

4. Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan State, 6-3, 214, 31 3/4 arm, 4.84 (40 time)

Of all the quarterbacks who worked out Sunday, Cousins stood out as the best. He showed a smooth, easy delivery and all of his passes were accurate. He no doubt benefited from playing in a pro-style offense at Michigan State. It showed as other quarterbacks looked unnatural in their three-, five- and seven-step drops, while Cousins made it look easy. He did a great job with his ball placement, allowing the receivers to make catches in stride.

5. Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers, 6-2, 211, 33 1/2 arm, 4.67 (40 time)

Sanu is the most recent example of a big receiver who doesn't run fast 40-yard times, but shows enough compensating factors to be a highly effective player in the NFL. Many coaches and scouts learned a valuable lesson several years ago, when Anquan Boldin ran a 4.67 in the 40 and dropped down many draft boards. Although Sanu shows average explosiveness and burst, he has outstanding body control. He also does a great job of coming back to the quarterback, where his long arms and ability to extend to catch the ball away from his body make it nearly impossible for the corner to make a play.

Struggled (in order of least impressive performances)
1. Greg Childs, WR, Arkansas, 6-3, 219, 34 1/8 arm, 4.50 (40 time)

Childs has struggled through the postseason evaluations, including the Combine. While his measureables are good, Childs struggled to make catches throughout receiving drills and lacked explosiveness in his routes. He showed a lack of fluidity and rounded out his breaks consistently. His inability to plant and go means he'll struggle to create separation. With his Sunday performance, Childs is likely to fall to the lower rounds of the draft.

2. Case Keenum, QB, Houston, 6-1, 208, 30 7/8 arm, 4.75 (40 time)

Keenum's sidearm delivery and below-average arm strength made him look really bad in comparison to his peers. He particularly struggled in the short, underneath passes, which is strange considering the nature of his college spread offense. With his performance Sunday, it's unlikely Keenum will be drafted.

3. Patrick Witt, QB, Yale, 6-4, 225, 31 3/8 arm, did not run 40

Witt had more to prove coming from a lower-level program than some of his peers. Unfortunately, Witt confirmed he still has a lot of work to do before being considered as a draft-worthy prospect. He was the least accurate of all of the quarterbacks who worked out Sunday. Witt appeared to allow one bad throw to turn into several as he pressed on the big stage.

4. Marc Tyler, RB, USC, 5-11, 219, 32 arm, 4.78 (40 time)

Tyler struggled Sunday, starting with his time in the 40. In addition, he looked unnatural in transitions and showed poor balance during drills. In the bag drill, he was caught guessing instead of using patience and vision to get him through the hole. Tyler wasn’t nearly as productive at USC as he was projected to be coming out of high school. Adding Sunday’s performance to his college film, it’s difficult to imagine him being productive at the NFL level.

5. James Rodgers, WR, Oregon State, 5-7, 184, 29 5/8 arm, 4.68 (40 time)

Rodgers ran a disappointing 40 on Sunday. Combined with his stature and injury (knee) history, it's questionable he'll be drafted come April. On film, he looks like an elusive playmaker, but Rodgers didn't show the same flash during Sunday's workout. He may not be 100 percent just yet. He will need a big Pro Day to revive his draft status and join his brother Jacquizz (Falcons) in the NFL.

2012 NFL Scouting Combine: LaMichael James enhances draft value with strong overall Combine

INDIANAPOLIS—Former Oregon running back LaMichael James didn't waste his chance to grab attention Sunday at the NFL Combine.

Running an unofficial 4.37 in the 40, James displayed the kind of speed that will impress scouts and potentially elevate his draft stock. It has become difficult for running backs to crack the first round, with many teams feeling they can get effective backs later in the draft. Mark Ingram Jr., who went 28th to the Saints, was the only first-round running back last year. Trent Richardson of Alabama may be the only back taken in Round 1 this April.

"If you’re not Adrian Peterson, you probably shouldn’t be a top five, or a top 10 running back," said NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock. "For instance, Darren McFadden, who I think went fourth, has had all the injury problems. There are so many other backs you can get later. Why not go down a little bit further?"

With Richardson (knee injury) not at the Combine, others backs had an opportunity to create some buzz. James did his part, making teams looking for a back more likely to look his way.

"I think I can do anything," James said. "I’ll be an all-round back. You don’t have to take me out on third down."

Lamar Miller of Miami (Fla.), Doug Martin of Boise State and David Wilson of Virginia Tech are other backs hoping to go no later than the second round. But James’ Combine speed will be a plus on his resume, and he believes the size he has added will also be viewed us a plus. James measured at 5-foot-9, 194.5 pounds. He believes that will help his durability and pass blocking.

"I think pass blocking is just effort," James said. "If you’re scrappy, I think the job is not to let the defender get to the quarterback, and that’s the most important thing. It doesn’t really matter how you do it, as long as you don’t get caught for holding.’’

Whether James excels at pass blocking remains to be seen. But Sunday, he excelled at getting from point A to point B.

2012 NFL Scouting Combine: Janoris Jenkins tries to convince NFL teams he's a changed man

INDIANAPOLIS – For Janoris Jenkins, interviews at the NFL Scouting Combine have been more like interrogations.

How many times has he been arrested? How many drug tests did he fail in college? Does he still smoke marijuana?

Jenkins, a 5-foot-10 cornerback from North Alabama, is hoping his draft stock is not severely hurt by his troubled past. It’s an interesting case. Jenkins is one of the draft’s most talented corners with clear first-round talent. But he may fall to the second round, because teams must determine if Jenkins has really matured, or if he has simply learned to say the right things.

'One of the ultimate boom-or-bust guys in this draft,’’ said NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock during a pre-Combine conference call.

Sunday during his media session, Jenkins was calm and straightforward, patiently answering questions. After all, Jenkins has a lot of explaining to do.

"I’m grateful for my second chance,’’ said Jenkins, who landed at North Alabama after being dismissed from the team at Florida.

Jenkins said he failed one drug test at Florida and was arrested three times -- once for a bar fight and twice for marijuana possession. When teams have asked about those incidents at the Combine, Jenkins said he didn't make excuses.

"I was honest, straightforward," Jenkins. "Told them I did it. I admitted to everything. I take full responsibility. I learned from it. It made me a stronger person. How to separate myself from certain guys, certain people. In order to be successful at the next level, I can’t do the things that I used to do.’’

Teams looking for a first-round corner have options. Morris Claiborne of LSU, Leonard Johnson of Iowa State, Trumaine Johnson of Montana and Dre Kirkpatrick of Alabama are among the other top prospects. Any of those corners would be a safer pick than Jenkins. But Jenkins has eye-opening ability. Some think he can be a better NFL corner than former Florida teammate Joe Haden, drafted seventh by the Browns in 2010.

However, Jenkins knows some teams will eliminate him from their draft board. What’s past is not always past. Not when it comes to paying a draft pick millions of dollars and trusting him to stay out of trouble.

"I’m pretty sure it will hurt me," Jenkins said. "But I’m moving past that."

Jenkins has plenty of motivation to earn NFL dollars. He is 23 years old, but he already has four children ranging in age from three years old to three months.

Playing at North Alabama was far different than being at Florida. North Alabama sometimes played on Thursday night, giving Jenkins a chance to watch Florida play on Saturdays. Jenkins said that was difficult.

"It struck me," Jenkins said. "I was just like, 'Man, I’m supposed to be there with those guys.

"It made me appreciate a lot. Coming from Florida, getting three or four pair of cleats a week. Going to North Alabama, getting one pair of cleats. Playing in front of 3,500 people. Being in The Swamp, playing in front of 95,000 is a big difference."

Jenkins said he had given up marijuana.

"I’m done," Jenkins said. "I can’t do it. I thought about my mom and my kids. In order for them to have a nice life, I have to put that aside."

When defensive backs go through Combine workouts on Tuesday, Jenkins hopes to impress with his speed and overall skill-set. Jenkins said he was rarely tested at North Alabama, only thrown at by opposing quarterbacks three or four times per game. Why challenge Jenkins when you can throw elsewhere?

Now Jenkins is back competing against college football’s best players, vying for attention at the Combine, trying to convince interested teams he is a changed man. The Cowboys (No. 14 pick), Bengals (No. 17) and Lions (No. 23) are among the teams that could take a hard look at Jenkins.

If they all pass, Jenkins could tumble into Round 2. However, cover corners are precious commodities, and Jenkins may be the most talented of this year’s group.

"They see the talent," Jenkins said. "They just want to know what kind of kid I am. I’m not a bad kid. I’ve made a few mistakes and I learned from them. Everything I did, I did. I’m admitting it. I did it. I’m looking to put that in my past and move forward."

But the Combine will help determine how much Jenkins’ past impacts his future.

NFL Report: Tampa Bay Buccaneers retain the services of Bill Sheridan since protecting sponsor

Fresh Tampa Bay Buccaneers private coach Greg Schiano offers put in not one but two a lot more assistants to his / her workforce. Reported by That Lantern (that Ohio State campus magazine), that Bucs own hired Bill Sheridan since protecting sponsor. Sheridan is often a original Leaders protecting sponsor in addition to Dolphins linebackers private coach.

Sheridan experienced lately established organization about Ohio State’s workforce once giving that Dolphins, nonetheless right now is actually headed with regard to Tampa Bay.

Sheridan appeared to be let go once one particular months ('09) because the Giants’ protecting sponsor. That Leaders helped 427 details, that second-most within crew background, which 12 months. This individual appeared to be that Dolphins’ linebackers private coach earlier times two years.

That Bucs have hired Bryan Cox to be a protecting assistant, that Tampa Bay Situations documented. Cox, any original NFL linebacker, appeared to be that Dolphins' linebackers private coach continue months. He has been a good assistant with all the Jets in addition to Browns.

Before, Schiano hired Leaders quarterbacks private coach Simon Sullivan since offensive sponsor.

Portis hopes to return to NFL in 2012

An old Denver Broncos along with Washington Redskins working again Clinton Portis hopes to come back to the NFL inside 2012 immediately after relaxing out there previous period, NFL.com reported.

Portis’ agent, Jason Fletcher, affirms that will a large number of groups have an interest inside Portis, thinking that gatherings along with those groups were set up intended for in a month's time through Scouting Blend inside Indianapolis.

Immediately after injuries restrained your pet to be able to 5 online games truly (they eventually went on wounded reserve on account of the groin injuries), Portis didn’t play previous period after the Redskins lower your pet. Fletcher reported Portis has been harvested by simply physicians to make the go back.

"I'm memorized again, prepared to function things out there along with Now i am available to idea of going out to be able to show that i can certainly continue to play, " Portis reported. "I just simply made 40 sufficient reason for eight decades from the NFL along with six one, 000-yard months, which is sufficient suitable now there to signify what We can perform. Now i am just simply memorized prove to whatsoever workforce which is all set along with prepared to start the doors to travel out there along with show that. "

Inside eight months along with Denver along with Washington, Portis placed over one, 250 hastening yards six moments.

Tim Tebow operates on technicians along with QB wizard Noel Mazzone

Tim Tebow results in kick wheresoever they runs. That will kick possesses found yourself in UCLA, where Tebow has been doing exercise along with Bruins bothersome coordinator/quarterbacks discipline Noel Mazzone.

“There’s a bit Tebow-mania taking place , here on the UCLA campus, ’’ UCLA head discipline Sean Mora shared with ESPNLosAngeles.com. “There’s a few more girls hanging around the football office and the football field than there typically are.”

Tebow isn’t really the only quarterback using the services of Mazzone, who used up days gone by a couple of months because Arizona ( az ) State’s bothersome coordinator. Philip Waters from the Chargers in addition exercised along with Mazzone on Thursday. Christian Consider from the Vikings along with set up potential Brock Osweiler, who played during Arizona ( az ) Say, are generally envisioned to promote Mazzone in the near future.

Yet Tebow will be drawing the most interest, along with they wants the task, immediately after finishing just simply fouthy-six. a few p'cent connected with his goes by to the Broncos previous period. Tebow’s long-term achievements just as one NFL quarterback may hinge mostly on his power to get an correct passer.

“He’s definitely a guy whose ambition is to obtain much better, ” Mazzone shared with ESPNLosAngeles.com, without going into the specifics of their workouts.

The Broncos may anticipation Tebow’s work with Mazzone gives down.

Three contracts to improve cap situation restructured by Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are generally ongoing to be able to restructure plans to obtain their particular salary-cap problem at hand.

After the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported Thursday that will linebackers LaMarr Woodley along with Lawrence Timmons have agreed to restructure their particular plans, ProFootballTalk.com reported Friday that the Steelers have restructured cornerback Ike Taylor’s contract.

The record said Taylor, who authorized the four-year cope previous to 2011 period, agreed to change $4. 925 mil connected with his base salary right into a signing benefit. By simply executing that will, the Steelers shifted $3. 29 mil inside cover space into foreseeable future decades.

Previous calendar month, Steelers chief executive Paintings Rooney II expected the workforce ended up being $25 mil on the cover. NFL.com reported the Steelers were $22.5 million over the cap as of Feb. 6.

In accordance with PFT, the three restructurings designed cover space connected with pretty much $15 mil intended for Pittsburgh.

The Steelers in addition much better their particular cover problem by simply issuing a couple of veterans—cornerback Bryant McFadden along with wide phone Arnaz Battle—on Wednesday.

Is it ture that Cincinnati Bengals offseason game plan that the With Benson expected to leave, team will shop for a back?

Each and every team can be setting up for you to attack the offseason to-do list, using free of charge agency established for you to wide open with March thirteen and the write August 26-28. It is a lastly with 32 information throughout 32 a short time looking at this offseason idea for every team. We’ll evaluate this AFC earliest, throughout alphabetical order.

NFL CINCINNATI — After being one of the surprises of the NFL and making the playoffs for the second time in three years, the Cincinnati Bengals have their franchise quarterback in Andy Dalton and game-changing wide receiver in A.J. Green. Now they need to continue to build around them.

The Bengals will be one of the top four teams when it comes to available cap space, but they also have 20 unrestricted free agents, including eight regular starters. Of that group, the team’s top three targets to re-sign appear to be safety Reggie Nelson, kicker Mike Nugent and defensive lineman Frostee Rucker.

Raiders cut starting corner Routt

This past year, the particular Oakland Raiders made the decision not to dispose of the cash in Nnamdi Asomugha, deciding upon instead for it to cost to a great extent to help keep man cornerback Stanford Routt. Currently merely a few months right after providing Routt your restructured five-year, $54. five k deal that bundled $20 k in secured dollars, the particular staff introduced it is providing the pup the discharge.

It's the initial huge plus to some extent unusual non-coaching employees move by way of innovative normal manager Reggie McKenzie. Routt, twenty eight, seemed to be a solid insure person contrary Asomugha in fact, however the have fun with fell out of a lot late while in the 2011 time.


Routt, considering the junior plus all round beneficial practical knowledge being a starter, raises a great free-agent cornerback collection that has the particular 49ers' Carlos Rogers, the particular Chiefs' Brandon Carr plus the Titans' Cortland Finnegan.

McKenzie has become costed that will quickly turn around the particular franchise plus has witout a doubt turned out to be, with the getting involving defensive-minded trainer Dennis Allen that they've unafraid that will modify the particular ways the particular staff managed previously underneath late proprietor 's Davis.

While Routt seemed to be a great gamer pertaining to Oakland, the expertise were not valued at close to $11 k your time. The particular Raiders can use extra dollars to help you return with free-agent protection Tyvon Branch, your actual tackling appliance.

Routt seemed to be drew up 38th all round by the Raiders in july 2004 plus deal 10 interceptions plus 205 tackles in ten conditions (like 53 commences) with the staff. He / she had your career-high four interceptions in 2011.

Roethlisberger get something about Haley

Ben Roethlisberger appeared to be nearly original Pittsburgh Steelers offensive sponsor Bruce Arians. Ever since Todd Haley will be the team's fresh offensive sponsor, the relationship among Roethlisberger in addition to Haley shall be intently scrutinized.

Roethlisberger advised that Pittsburgh Post-Gazette which he has listened to mixed opinions with regards to Haley.

“I’ve obtained a good number of calls in addition to text messaging in addition to e-mails from men and women round the league, together good in addition to awful with regards to your ex, ” Roethlisberger advised that magazine. “Everybody offers a good impression, since it is assumed, in addition to they’re enabling me personally know very well what its discussion by using your ex was—good, awful in addition to unsociable. I’ve listened to a good number of elements, in addition to I’m looking forward to reaching your ex in addition to developing my own impression. ”

That Steelers have become a far more prolific spending crew by using Roethlisberger in the helm. It’s absolutely no magic formula this individual would like which to stay, especially by using fresh will get for instance Simon Wallace in addition to Antonio Brown acquiring directly into trusted threats. Wallace in addition to Brown together experienced more than one particular, one hundred back yards receiving continue months, in addition to together produced that Master Serving (Brown to be a returning gentleman).

Roethlisberger dreams that Steelers’ offensive system won't follow a significant facial rejuvenation.

“I don’t know when it might be effortless for folks to learn the idea, ” Roethlisberger explained. “We’re so fresh about offense and also the almost all gifted bedroom within this entire developing may perhaps be extensive recipient, absolutely no disrespect to any one in addition. In addition to they’re also truly fresh.

“They’re nonetheless that idea in the iceberg within this offense, and they also would in addition to they will would recently. In addition to they’re only receiving to the point which ‘OK, this specific pays if you ask me".

New York Giants GM Reese expects some changes

There's a lot of planning, a lot of discussion on guys and on salaries and where we can go and where we can't go," Reese said in a conference call. "It's a lot of discussion to be had.

"But we'll be ready."

The Giants, just 7-7 with two games remaining in the regular season, finished with six straight wins, including a 21-17 victory over New England last Sunday in the Super Bowl. It was the second time coach Tom Coughlin and quarterback Eli Manning beat Tom Brady, Bill Belichick and the Patriots for the title.

Chemistry and camaraderie were among the chief reasons the Giants were able to overcome a four-game losing streak and rebound to win the NFC East title in the last game of the regular season.

"Wins always make you love each other. That's the common denominator: wins," Reese said. "Every team is different, every offseason a team changes, but there will be a strong core of our current players coming back. I can tell you that. But there will definitely be some changes."

Only four of New York's starters will be free agents: tackle Kareem McKenzie, linebacker Chase Blackburn, cornerback Aaron Ross and punter Steve Weatherford. Wide receiver Mario Manningham, defensive end Dave Tollefson, defensive tackle Rocky Bernard, cornerback Terrell Thomas and safety Deon Grant are among the key players that could test free agency.

Manningham, who lost his starting job to Pro Bowl wideout Victor Cruz, could get plenty of attention on the open market after making a sensational 38-yard catch on the Giants' go-ahead drive in the fourth quarter against the Patriots.

"We try to make good football decisions," Reese said. "It would be great to make splashy moves in the offseason, but our goal is to make good football decisions and that's what we try to do every year. We don't just think about our personnel for the current year. We think a couple years down the line and that's important."

One of the top offseason issues involves Osi Umenyiora's contract situation. The two-time Pro Bowl defensive end was a training camp holdout last summer, and had harsh words for Reese after not getting a contract extension.

Umenyiora is slated to earn $3.975 million next season in the final year of a seven-year deal he signed in 2005. He had nine sacks in nine games in 2011.

"We're in the early stages of the evaluation," Reese said. "Osi is under contract. We'll discuss everything as a staff and we'll discuss all issues that could possibly come up for us and we'll come up with a game plan. We'll move on, day by day, and see how things work out for us."

Reese said he expects tight ends Jake Ballard and Travis Beckum to start the season on the physically unable to perform list. Both players tore knee ligaments in the Super Bowl.

Reese praised the team's practice squad and suggested some of those players could fill voids at tight end and other positions.



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Redskins adding Peyton Manning 'a horrific idea', Joe Theismann

Count number an old Washington Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann amongst folks that will not really want Peyton Manning in a Redskins even upcoming period.

“It’s not necessarily a good idea, it’s not really a negative idea—it’s the awful notion, ” Theismann, at this point the analyst intended for NFL Multi-level, shared with Washington the airwaves station WJFK-FM. “It will be among the poorest things that people could perform like a franchise. Are generally we all going to choose discover a further guy intended for just a couple of decades once again? Haven’t we all done that previous to? Haven’t we all observed that take action previous to? Along with in addition, should you acquire Peyton Manning, don’t you do have a headache about guarding your pet? Don’t you need to be concerned about who they includes the football to be able to? ”

Manning skipped the 2011 period immediately after considering three fretboard surgical procedures and is particularly owed the $28 mil roster benefit from the Colts inside Next month, leading to conjecture that will when called he'll become released.

Theismann really wants to observe the Redskins develop a quarterback along with cease turning to veterans with not very much to offer long-run. Donovan McNabb along with Rex Grossman ended up the Redskins' major starting QBs days gone by a couple of months.

“We’re fed up of searching for stopgaps, ” Theismann reported. “It’s time period to be able to set up probably your special, and also come up with a cope for a young probably your special, along with nurture your pet, and placed online players all-around your pet. If we’re going to become 5-11, if we’re going to become 6-10, let’s exercise along with another person who’s (finding out because they runs), as an alternative to guys which were here, making faults. ”

The Redskins support the Zero. 6 choose from the 2012 NFL Set up. There was conjecture that this workforce may perhaps produce trade " up " intended for Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III. Packers back-up quarterback Matt Flynn has also recently been talked about as a possible free-agent option to the Redskins.

Brandon Jacobs says sorry to Gisele Bundchen for his comments

Ny Leaders managing backside Brandon Jacobs offers apologized with regard to responses this individual produced Wednesday with regards to Gisele Bundchen, Tom Brady’s better half, in addition to your girlfriend self deprecation in the Patriots' receivers.

"Given the fact that it is just a colleague regarding mine's better half, Post complete apologize with regard to saying that, due to the fact Post won't own explained which, " Jacobs explained Saturday about "The Doug Gottlieb Show" about ESPN R / c. "It's his / her better half in addition to Post must esteem which only around any one in addition. "

Jacobs advised reporters from MetLife Arena about Wednesday which, “She only should always keep sweet in addition to close up. ”

Jacobs would endure through his / her responses with regards to Bundchen's look and feel in addition to once more referred to as your girlfriend "cute. "

"No concern, this individual must consider which to be a balance, " Jacobs explained regarding Brady. "If this individual confirms some thing incorrect by using which, then that is certainly his / her problem. "

Patriots receivers Wes Welker in addition to Deion Branch, in addition to limited conclude Aaron Hernandez, almost all decreased as well as experienced moves struck off its fingers in the Pats’ remaining commute of their Excellent Serving XLVI reduction into the Leaders.

“My husband's comments are not able to f----- throw that tennis ball in addition to capture that tennis ball simultaneously. Post can’t consider they will decreased that tennis ball so many situations, ” Bundchen explained in the online video media seized through theinsider.com.

Leaders protecting conclude Osi Umenyiora notion which Bundchen will be able to state whatever she were going to in regards to the activity.

“I signify, that is certainly your girlfriend husband's comments, ” Umenyiora explained. “She should certainly keep from offers like which, nonetheless at the end in the morning that is certainly its romance in addition to she's the correct to speak about whatever she would like to. ”

Brady haven't left a comment on what his / her better half explained.

Following on from the activity, Brady explained he has a good number of self-confidence within Welker, which never pull in the complete which Welker explained this individual attracts “1, 000 situations. ”

“Wes is often a unparalleled player and a teammate, ” Brady explained. “I appreciate which gentleman. ”.

Harsh words for Rob Gronkowski by Rodney Harrison

Original Fresh He uk Patriots basic safety Rodney Harrison advised ESPN Chicago R / c 1000 which Pats TE Rob Gronkowski “disrespected himself” through dance in addition to consuming off his / her clothing in the team’s postgame bash carrying out a 21-17 reduction into the Ny Leaders within Excellent Serving XLVI.

“I assure you this specific, when Willie McGinest, Tedy Bruschi, Larry Izzo, Richard Seymour as well as me personally were being in the bash, (Gronkowski) would 've got his / her mind rung, ” explained Harrison. “There’s absolutely no reason behind which to happen. ”

Harrison publicly stated in the appointment which he has not noticed that online video media as well as photos in the occurrence.

Harrison, which behaves for NBC footballing analyst, lost not one but two Excellent Plates within his / her career—one with all the San Diego Chargers within 1995 andf the other with all the Fresh He uk Patriots within 08.

“When most people lost that Excellent Serving, any regarding my Excellent Serving cutbacks, I used to be so devastated the final matter Post ever before were going to complete appeared to be bash, not to say dance as well as start your own clothing, ” Harrison explained. “It’s only immaturity. It’s not correct. This individual produced any error in addition to I’m convinced this individual feels absolutely ignorant concerning this at this time. There’s a period of time in addition to spot with regard to every thing. ”

Harrison explained Fresh England’s frequent command really should have ascertained these kinds of conduct didn't happen. Frequent offensive lineman Shiny Light source appeared to be reportedly photographed with his clothing off, which “surprised” Harrison.

“The command should big step in addition to an individual should pull (Gronkowski) into the side in addition to state, ‘Look fresh gentleman, this can be unacceptable, this may not be the time neither the destination. You'll want to grow up, ’ ” Harrison explained. “And that’s just what the idea occurs to. I'm keen on this specific baby. I believe he’s a good baby, succeeds challenging, is actually unselfish. Nonetheless this individual produced any error. ”

Very few details tend to be acknowledged in regards to the Patriots’ post-Super Serving bash. It absolutely was used within any tent to the outfield lawn from Success Industry, the house of your minimal league karate crew, and also the crew haven't left a comment to the photos in addition to online video media which have emerged, reported by ESPNBoston.com.

Fifty percent in the crew was in attendance for any bash, reported by that Boston Herald. Nonetheless, which collection didn't incorporate Tom Brady, Wes Welker as well as private coach Bill Belichick, reported by that magazine.