Archive: March 2007
Browns, Possibly Lions Joining Dolphins in T. Green Chase
The Cleveland Browns have entered the bidding for Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Trent Green. Both teams have confirmed publicly that trade talks have taken place. The Chiefs had been dealing mostly with the Miami Dolphins. Green apparently has agreed to a new contract with the Dolphins as a precursor...
By Mark Maske | March 30, 2007; 10:56 AM ET | Comments (1)
Carr Drawing Only Mild Interest
There hasn't been much of a market so far for quarterback David Carr, the former top overall pick in the NFL draft who was released by the Houston Texans when they traded for Matt Schaub to be their starter. The Miami Dolphins might be interested if they're unable to...
By Mark Maske | March 30, 2007; 10:38 AM ET | Email a Comment
Overtime Issue Unresolved
PHOENIX, Ariz.--One unresolved issue for the NFL coming out of the annual league meeting is what to do about overtime games. The problem is that winning the coin toss has become too much of an advantage in the sudden-death session. According to the league's competition committee, the team that...
By Mark Maske | March 29, 2007; 12:44 AM ET | Comments (18)
Disciplinary Decision on Jones Expected By Mid-April
PHOENIX, Ariz.--NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell plans to have a decision about possible punishment for troubled Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones by mid-April. Goodell is scheduled to meet with Jones on April 3 about the player's legal problems, and Goodell said today he expects to make a decision within...
By Mark Maske | March 28, 2007; 3:15 PM ET | Email a Comment
Overtime Proposal Doesn't Pass
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The NFL's team owners today failed to pass a proposal to move the kickoff in overtime from the 30- to the 35-yard line. The competition committee recommended the change to try to offset the advantage of the team that wins the coin toss in overtime, citing a statistic...
By Mark Maske | March 28, 2007; 2:32 PM ET | Comments (1)
Gibbs Says Redskins Having Serious Trade Discussions About Moving Up In Draft
PHOENIX, Ariz.--Washington Redskins Coach Joe Gibbs said here today that nothing is "imminent" in a proposed trade with the Chicago Bears for linebacker Lance Briggs, and indicated that the Redskins also are giving serious consideration to trading up in the first-round order in next month's NFL draft. Gibbs, speaking...
By Mark Maske | March 28, 2007; 12:53 PM ET | Comments (11)
Fisher Weary of Talk About Jones's Troubles
PHOENIX, Ariz.--Tennessee Titans Coach Jeff Fisher appears weary of being asked about his troubled cornerback, Adam (Pacman) Jones. "I'm excited about our team," Fisher said today. "Life is going on as we speak. I would rather get up in the morning and put my head down at night and...
By Mark Maske | March 27, 2007; 7:16 PM ET | Email a Comment
Turner Says He's Undaunted By Expectations For Chargers
PHOENIX, Ariz.--New San Diego Chargers coach Norv Turner has taken over a team that went 14-2 during the regular season but lost in the second round of last season's AFC playoffs. He said today he's undaunted by the fact that he can have a 13-3 regular season next year...
By Mark Maske | March 27, 2007; 7:15 PM ET | Comments (3)
Owners Grant Request by Giants, Jets for Waiver of Debt Rules
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The owners approved a request by the New York Giants and New York Jets for a waiver of the league's debt rules to build their planned stadium in the Meadowlands. The price of the stadium has risen to $1.6 billion, requiring the two teams to carry more debt...
By Mark Maske | March 27, 2007; 7:13 PM ET | Email a Comment
Owners Make Instant Replay Permanent, Reject Having Radio Receiver In One Defensive Player's Helmet
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The team owners voted here today to make instant replay a permanent NFL fixture. The rule previously had been approved and renewed on a temporary basis. The owners voted, 30-2, to make it a permanent rule, with only the Arizona Cardinals and Cincinnati Bengals voting against it. Atlanta...
By Mark Maske | March 27, 2007; 3:34 PM ET | Comments (2)
Giants Get Linebacker Help With K. Mitchell
PHOENIX, Ariz.--Free agent linebacker Kawika Mitchell, formerly of the Kansas City Chiefs, agreed to a one-year, $1 million contract with the New York Giants. The Giants got the help at linebacker they needed after a potential trade for the Denver Broncos' Al Wilson fell through last week. Wilson failed...
By Mark Maske | March 27, 2007; 11:44 AM ET | Email a Comment
Spikes Trade Completed
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The trade is done. It's been announced. The Buffalo Bills dealt linebacker Takeo Spikes and quarterback Kelly Holcomb to the Philadelphia Eagles for defensive tackle Darwin Walker and a 2008 draft choice....
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 9:33 PM ET | Comments (2)
Eagles, Bills Close In On Spikes Trade
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The Buffalo Bills are close to trading linebacker Takeo Spikes and quarterback Kelly Holcomb to the Philadelphia Eagles for defensive tackle Darwin Walker and a 2008 draft pick, an NFL source said. Spikes would compete for a starting job in Philadelphia and Holcomb would give the Eagles a...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 9:26 PM ET | Email a Comment
Eagles Talking to Bills About T. Spikes
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills are discussing a trade that would send Bills linebacker Takeo Spikes to Philadelphia, an NFL source said. The Bills have been shopping Spikes in recent days and the Eagles are in need of a linebacker after trying but failing to land Dallas...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 9:19 PM ET | Email a Comment
League Awards Compensatory Draft Picks
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The league awarded 32 compensatory draft picks to teams today for losses in free agency. Four teams--the San Diego Chargers, San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts and Oakland Raiders--were awarded third-round selections. The Baltimore Ravens and New England Patriots were awarded four choices each and the Colts three. The...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 9:17 PM ET | Comments (5)
Jets Sign Reclamation Project Wadsworth
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The New York Jets signed defensive end Andre Wadsworth, the injury-plagued former first-round draft choice by the Arizona Cardinals who hasn't played in an NFL game since 2000. Wadsworth was the third player selected in the 1998 draft following quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Ryan Leaf, but his career...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 9:03 PM ET | Email a Comment
Saints-Colts to Open Season on Sept. 6
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The NFL announced its schedule for the featured games of the season's opening weekend and Thanksgiving. The Indianapolis Colts will host the New Orleans Saints at 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 6 in the season-opening Thursday night game on NBC. On Sept. 9, the first Sunday of the regular...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 4:53 PM ET | Comments (1)
Conduct Policy To Be In Place Before Draft, Goodell Says
PHOENIX, Ariz.--NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said during a news conference here today that he will announce his new player conduct policy before the draft next month. Goodell said the policy could include a provision that players with repeat criminal offenses could be suspended for up to one year. It...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 4:16 PM ET | Email a Comment
Saints, State Agree to Keep Team in New Orleans At Least Through 2010 Season
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The New Orleans Saints and state officials in Louisiana have agreed to a deal that will keep the franchise in New Orleans at least through the 2010 NFL season. The two sides agreed to eliminate clauses in the Saints' lease at the Superdome that might have allowed the...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 3:36 PM ET | Email a Comment
Dolphins, Chiefs Haggling Over T. Green Trade
PHOENIX, Ariz.--A potential trade of quarterback Trent Green from the Kansas City Chiefs to the Miami Dolphins is being held up because the Chiefs are asking for a second-round draft pick, an NFL source said here today. Green apparently has agreed to rework a contract that was to pay...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 3:10 PM ET | Email a Comment
Goodell's Tougher Conduct Policy Will Have Widespread Support
PHOENIX, Ariz.--Commissioner Roger Goodell told owners, executives and coaches from the 32 NFL teams in his address to open the annual league meeting here today that a tougher policy on player conduct is coming. Goodell is expected to announce that policy Tuesday, and it will have widespread support. "I...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 3:07 PM ET | Comments (1)
Henderson Retiring From League Office
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The NFL's team owners were told here today that Harold Henderson is retiring as the league's chief labor executive, according to New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Henderson has been the league's chief labor negotiator for 15 years. Kraft said that Commissioner Roger Goodell and attorneys Jeff Pash...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 3:02 PM ET | Email a Comment
Owners Approve Qualifier Proposal to Put Revenue-Sharing Plan Into Effect
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The NFL's team owners voted, 30-2, here today to approve a set of criteria by which clubs will qualify to receive funds under the revenue-sharing system ratified last year. The revenue-sharing plan was approved by the owners last March as part of the labor settlement with the players'...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 2:55 PM ET | Comments (1)
Meeting Under Way
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The annual league meeting began here this morning with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressing the franchise owners, executives and coaches gathered at the Arizona Biltmore resort. Goodell is expected to announce a new player conduct policy Tuesday and the owners likely will ratify the guidelines under which teams...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 12:05 PM ET | Comments (1)
Giants, Jets Still Working Through Stadium Funding Issues
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The New York Giants and New York Jets continue to deal with issues related to the funding of their planned new stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Owners and executives from both teams spent Sunday trying to convince other owners to waive the rules that clubs usually must follow...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 10:42 AM ET | Email a Comment
Bears Busy in Free Agency
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The Chicago Bears were busy on the free agent market Sunday. They re-signed guard Ruben Brown and added defensive tackle Anthony Adams. Brown, who reached the Pro Bowl for the ninth time last season, signed a one-year, $2.2 million deal. The Bears lured Adams from the San Francisco...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 10:37 AM ET | Email a Comment
League Sets Another Attendance Record
PHOENIX, Ariz.--The NFL announced that it set its single-season attendance record for a fifth year in a row. Total paid attendance last season, including the preseason and postseason games, was just less than 22.2 million, or 66,666 per game. The Washington Redskins led the NFL in attendance for a...
By Mark Maske | March 26, 2007; 10:27 AM ET | Comments (1)
Lions Bolster Offensive Line With Piller, Mulitalo
The Detroit Lions made two veteran additions to their offensive line, agreeing to contracts with free agent guards Zach Piller and Edwin Mulitalo. Piller was released by the Tennessee Titans and Mulitalo was cut by the Baltimore Ravens....
By Mark Maske | March 24, 2007; 7:27 PM ET | Email a Comment
Texans Keep Two Running Backs, Cut One
The Houston Texans retained fullback Vonta Leach by matching the New York Giants' four-year, $8 million offer sheet to the restricted free agent. The deal includes about $1.6 million in guaranteed money. The Texans also re-signed free agent running back Ron Dayne. They released tailback Domanick Williams (who formerly...
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 7:55 PM ET | Email a Comment
Cardinals Add T. Smith
Free agent fullback Terrelle Smith agreed to a contract with the Arizona Cardinals. He'd been released by the Cleveland Browns. The Cardinals also re-signed free agent defensive lineman Chris Cooper....
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 7:54 PM ET | Email a Comment
Seahawks Re-Sign Engram
The Seattle Seahawks re-signed free agent wide receiver Bobby Engram. Engram missed much of last season because of a thyroid condition but club officials like the veteran influence he provides on the team's other receivers....
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 7:53 PM ET | Email a Comment
Texans Release Carr
The Houston Texans released quarterback David Carr, two days after trading for Matt Schaub. Carr, the top overall selection in the 2002 NFL draft, becomes a free agent. The Miami Dolphins, Oakland Raiders and Minnesota Vikings are said to be among the interested teams. The Texans tried but failed...
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 6:32 PM ET | Email a Comment
Cowboys Finally Get Safety Help By Signing Hamlin
The Dallas Cowboys signed safety Ken Hamlin to a one-year, $2.5 million contract today. Hamlin is a former starter for the Seattle Seahawks and his signing addresses the Cowboys' long-standing need for a safety to start alongside Roy Williams. Keith Davis and rookie Pat Watkins shared the job last...
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 4:41 PM ET | Comments (1)
Falcons Add C. Redman to Quarterback Mix
The Atlanta Falcons signed quarterback Chris Redman. Redman is a former starter for the Baltimore Ravens whose career has been derailed by injuries. He'll compete for a roster spot behind starter Michael Vick, but the Falcons probably will add another potential backup after trading Matt Schaub to the Houston...
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 1:00 PM ET | Comments (1)
J. Wiggins to Jaguars
Free agent tight end Jermaine Wiggins, cut by the Minnesota Vikings, signed a one-year, nearly $1 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Wiggins had 46 catches for the Vikings last season. He replaces departed tight end Kyle Brady, who left the Jaguars to sign with the New England Patriots...
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 12:56 PM ET | Email a Comment
Reid Back With Eagles
Coach Andy Reid rejoined the Philadelphia Eagles today after a five-week leave of absence to deal with his sons' legal problems. Reid spoke at a news conference and said the idea of quitting crossed his mind but he didn't give it serious consideration. "I knew I needed to take...
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 12:45 PM ET | Comments (2)
Dolphins, Possibly Raiders Chasing D. Carr
The Miami Dolphins reportedly are among the teams interested in trading for David Carr, the former top overall selection in the NFL draft by the Houston Texans. Texans General Manager Rick Smith said at Thursday's introductory news conference for Matt Schaub, the club's new starting quarterback obtained in a...
By Mark Maske | March 23, 2007; 9:39 AM ET | Comments (10)
M. Faulk to Announce Retirement Monday
Running back Marshall Faulk is scheduled to announce his retirement Monday. Faulk didn't play last season because of knee problems and works as an analyst for the NFL Network....
By Mark Maske | March 22, 2007; 6:33 PM ET | Comments (4)
Texans Say They're Trying to Trade Carr
As the Houston Texans officially introduced new quarterback Matt Schaub at a news conference today, General Manager Rick Smith said the team is attempting to trade former starter David Carr. The Texans have been listening to trade offers all offseason for Carr, the top overall selection in the 2002...
By Mark Maske | March 22, 2007; 3:24 PM ET | Comments (4)
Raiders Sign J. Booty
The Oakland Raiders signed quarterback Josh Booty, who'd been out of the league since 2003. Booty spent parts of three seasons with the Cleveland Browns but never has thrown a regular season pass in the NFL. He played baseball in the Florida Marlins organization before returning to football and...
By Mark Maske | March 22, 2007; 3:20 PM ET | Comments (2)
Schaub Gets Hefty New Contract from Texans
Quarterback Matt Schaub has agreed to a six-year, $48 million contract with the Houston Texans, an NFL source said. The deal completes Wednesday's trade in which the Texans are sending a second-round pick in each of the next two drafts to the Atlanta Falcons for Schaub. The two teams...
By Mark Maske | March 22, 2007; 11:42 AM ET | Email a Comment
Chiefs Release K. Turley, S. Knight
The Kansas City Chiefs released offensive tackle Kyle Turley and safety Sammy Knight. Turley was a starter for half of last season after missing two seasons because of back troubles. Knight was the club's starter at strong safety for two seasons....
By Mark Maske | March 22, 2007; 11:10 AM ET | Email a Comment
Tuiasosopo Could Be Jets' Backup
The New York Jets reportedly have reached a contract agreement with free agent quarterback Marques Tuiasosopo, formerly of the Oakland Raiders. The Newark Star-Ledger reported that the deal could become official by Friday. Tuiasosopo would compete with second-year pro Kellen Clemens for the backup role behind starter Chad Pennington....
By Mark Maske | March 22, 2007; 11:05 AM ET | Email a Comment
Dolphins Reportedly Trying to Complete Trade for T. Green
The Miami Dolphins reportedly are close to trading a seventh-round draft pick to the Kansas City Chiefs for veteran quarterback Trent Green. The Palm Beach Post reported that the final obstacle to the trade being completed is Green agreeing to a new contract that would lower his salary next...
By Mark Maske | March 22, 2007; 10:54 AM ET | Email a Comment
Reid Returning to Eagles Friday
Philadelphia Eagles Coach Andy Reid is scheduled to return from his leave of absence Friday. Reid took the leave last month after two of his sons were involved in traffic incidents that resulted in them facing gun and drug charges....
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2007; 9:49 PM ET | Comments (1)
Falcons Agree to Trade Schaub to Texans
The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to trade backup quarterback Matt Schaub to the Houston Texans for a package of draft picks, an NFL source said. The move likely will lead the Texans to release or trade quarterback David Carr, the top overall selection in the 2002 NFL draft. Schaub...
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2007; 5:04 PM ET | Comments (2)
Players Association Restricts Agents' Access to College Players
The Players Association announced today that its executive board, meeting in Hawaii, approved a rule prohibiting agents from being in contact with college players who haven't yet declared themselves eligible for the NFL draft. Union chief Gene Upshaw said last year that he would propose such a rule in...
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2007; 4:21 PM ET | Email a Comment
Competition Committee to Propose That One Defensive Player Gets to Have Radio Receiver in Helmet
The NFL's competition committee will propose to the team owners at next week's league meeting that one defensive player per club be allowed to have a radio receiver in his helmet during a game to connect him to a coach. That proposal, designed to even the competition between offense...
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2007; 3:58 PM ET | Email a Comment
Final Revenue-Sharing Component Could Be Put in Place Next Week, Finally
When the NFL's team owners meet next week in Phoenix at the annual league meeting, they might determine the criteria by which teams would qualify for additional funds under the revenue-sharing plan they approved last year. The owners ratified a plan for bolstered revenue-sharing as part of their labor...
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2007; 3:42 PM ET | Email a Comment
Conduct Policy Could Be Announced Next Week
The NFL could have its new conduct policy for its players completed as soon as next week, a league spokesman said today. Greg Aiello, the NFL's vice president of public relations, said during a conference call with reporters that the issue is to be discussed by Commissioner Roger Goodell...
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2007; 3:34 PM ET | Email a Comment
Colts Have Some Patchwork To Do
The Super Bowl champions are being disassembled. Not the big parts, but some significant-albeit-tiny ones. On Tuesday, two players released by the Indianapolis Colts, wide receiver Brandon Stokley and defensive tackle Montae Reagor, agreed to contracts with other teams. Stokley landed with the Denver Broncos and Reagor with the...
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2007; 10:55 AM ET | Email a Comment
M. Reagor Agrees to Deal With Eagles
Free agent defensive tackle Montae Reagor agreed to a three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. Reagor was released by the Indianapolis Colts. He missed much of last season after suffering head injuries in an automobile accident on his way to a game against the Washington Redskins....
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2007; 10:44 AM ET | Email a Comment
S. Barber to Texans
Shawn Barber agreed to a contract with the Houston Texans. The free agent linebacker spent last season with the Philadelphia Eagles. It was his second stint with the Eagles during a nine-year NFL career that also has included stays with the Washington Redskins and Kansas City Chiefs....
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2007; 10:44 PM ET | Comments (1)
Stokley Agrees to One-Year Deal With Broncos
Wide receiver Brandon Stokley, released by the Indianapolis Colts, agreed to a one-year, approximately $1 million contract with the Denver Broncos. Stokley was sidelined for the Colts' Super Bowl run after suffering a torn Achilles' tendon. He had only eight catches last season but totaled 109 catches the previous...
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2007; 10:39 PM ET | Email a Comment
Broncos Cut C. Brown, Possibly Ending His NFL Career
The Denver Broncos released defensive end Courtney Brown, the former top overall selection in the NFL draft. Brown's career has been derailed by a series of injuries since the Cleveland Browns chose him with the top pick in the 2000 draft, just before the Washington Redskins took his Penn...
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2007; 10:19 AM ET | Comments (5)
Giants Sign Texans Fullback to Offer Sheet in Restricted Free Agency
The New York Giants signed fullback Vonta Leach, a restricted free agent from the Houston Texans, to a four-year, approximately $8 million offer sheet. The deal includes about $1.6 million in bonuses. The Texans have a week to decide whether to match the Giants' offer and retain Leach....
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2007; 10:12 AM ET | Email a Comment
C. Draft to Rams
Linebacker Chris Draft agreed to a contract with the St. Louis Rams as a free agent. The veteran spent last season with the Carolina Panthers....
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2007; 10:03 AM ET | Email a Comment
Jets Re-Sign A. Clement
The New York Jets re-signed free agent offensive tackle Anthony Clement. He was the club's starter at right tackle last season while rookie D'Brickashaw Ferguson started at left tackle....
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2007; 9:55 AM ET | Email a Comment
J. Porter Reportedly Cited for Punching Bengals Tackle at Vegas Gaming Table
Joey Porter, the linebacker recently signed by the Miami Dolphins after being released by the Pittsburgh Steelers, reportedly was cited by the Las Vegas police for misdemeanor battery after a fight Sunday evening at a casino with Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackle Levi Jones. Porter punched Jones in the face...
By Mark Maske | March 19, 2007; 1:02 PM ET | Comments (3)
Giants Buy Back '08 and '09 Seasons in E. Manning's Contract
There was a report this morning that the New York Giants had extended the contract of quarterback Eli Manning. In truth, though, the Giants simply executed a buy-back clause in Manning's contract that they'd intended to execute all along. The seven-year, $45 million deal that Manning signed as a...
By Mark Maske | March 19, 2007; 12:49 PM ET | Comments (2)
Chiefs Make Free Agent Moves on Defensive Line
The Kansas City Chiefs remade their defensive line in recent days. Over the weekend, they re-signed end and tackle Jimmy Wilkerson to a one-year contract. That came after they re-signed tackle Ron Edwards and added tackle Alfonso Boone, formerly of the Chicago Bears, late last week for four-year deals...
By Mark Maske | March 19, 2007; 10:13 AM ET | Email a Comment
C. June Picks Bucs
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers landed one of the last few notable players remaining on the unrestricted free agent market when they agreed Saturday to a three-year, approximately $12 million contract with linebacker Cato June. June leaves the Indianapolis Colts. It was the second significant free agent defection from the...
By Mark Maske | March 18, 2007; 12:05 PM ET | Email a Comment
J. Gage to Titans
The Tennessee Titans signed free agent wide receiver Justin Gage on Friday. Gage had spent his previous four NFL seasons with the Chicago Bears. He had only four catches this past season but had 31 catches in 2005....
By Mark Maske | March 17, 2007; 11:30 AM ET | Email a Comment
Cowboys Let R. Fowler Go to Titans
The Dallas Cowboys declined to match the Tennessee Titans' four-year, $11.5 million offer sheet to linebacker Ryan Fowler, a restricted free agent. Fowler goes to the Titans, for whom he is expected to compete for a starting job on defense, and the Cowboys receive no draft-pick compensation. Fowler signed...
By Mark Maske | March 17, 2007; 7:23 AM ET | Email a Comment
Eagles Re-Sign Buckhalter
The Philadelphia Eagles re-signed tailback Correll Buckhalter. Buckhalter, who was an unrestricted free agent, remains the Eagles' backup to starter Brian Westbrook....
By Mark Maske | March 16, 2007; 12:33 PM ET | Email a Comment
Bengals Decline to Match Browns' Offer to S. Smith
The Cincinnati Bengals announced they won't match the Cleveland Browns' offer sheet to defensive tackle Shaun Smith, a restricted free agent. Smith goes to the Browns for a four-year deal worth approximately $8 million. The Bengals don't receive any draft-pick compensation. Smith is the second defensive tackle added this...
By Mark Maske | March 16, 2007; 12:29 PM ET | Comments (1)
Broncos Still Waiting on Wilkinson
Defensive tackle Dan Wilkinson is yet to report to the Denver Broncos to undergo a physical to cement the 13-day-old trade in which the Broncos obtained Wilkinson from the Miami Dolphins for a sixth-round draft choice. But the Broncos apparently haven't given up on having him. The Denver Post...
By Mark Maske | March 16, 2007; 10:16 AM ET | Email a Comment
Packers Chasing R. Moss
The Green Bay Packers have emerged as the NFL team most likely to trade for Oakland Raiders wide receiver Randy Moss. Several NFL sources said Thursday and this morning they believe the Packers have the best chance to end up with Moss if the Raiders indeed trade him. The...
By Mark Maske | March 16, 2007; 9:55 AM ET | Comments (6)
T. Johnson Sentenced to Four Months in Prison
Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson was sentenced to four months in prison and fined $2,500 for violating his probation in a gun case. Johnson was arrested in December on gun charges and pleaded guilty to violating his probation from a previous weapons case. He also faces a likely...
By Mark Maske | March 15, 2007; 9:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
K. Curtis Agrees to Deal With Eagles
Free agent wide receiver Kevin Curtis agreed to a six-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. The deal includes $9.5 million in guaranteed money and potentially could be worth as much as $32 million. Curtis leaves the St. Louis Rams, for whom he had 40 catches this past season and...
By Mark Maske | March 15, 2007; 8:30 PM ET | Email a Comment
Browns Add R. Smith
The Cleveland Browns agreed to a four-year contract with free agent defensive tackle Robaire Smith, formerly of the Tennessee Titans. Smith was one of the better players left on the free agent market and gives the Browns a considerable upgrade on their defensive line. The Browns are to find...
By Mark Maske | March 15, 2007; 3:30 PM ET | Email a Comment
Upshaw Expects New Conduct Policy to Include One-Year Suspension for Some Repeat Offenders
Members of the players' executive board and union officials are in Hawaii for the NFL Players Association's annual meetings. The prime topic of conversation likely will be the new player conduct policy that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and union chief Gene Upshaw have been discussing with the players. Upshaw...
By Mark Maske | March 15, 2007; 12:01 AM ET | Comments (1)
Raiders Re-Sign C. Slaughter
The Oakland Raiders re-signed free agent offensive tackle Chad Slaughter. Slaughter was a part-time starter for the Raiders this past season but is slated for backup duty next season....
By Mark Maske | March 14, 2007; 9:11 AM ET | Email a Comment
N. Harper, Titans Agree to Three-Year Deal
One of the better remaining free agents came off the board when the Tennessee Titans agreed to a three-year contract tonight with cornerback Nick Harper, who leaves the Indianapolis Colts. Harper had three interceptions for the Super Bowl champions this past season and had 15 interceptions in six seasons...
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 9:02 PM ET | Comments (1)
Saints Get Safety Help With Signing of Kaesviharn
The New Orleans Saints signed safety Kevin Kaesviharn to a four-year contract today. He leaves the Cincinnati Bengals, for whom he had a team-leading six interceptions this past season....
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 8:17 PM ET | Email a Comment
Seahawks Get M. Pollard
Free agent tight end Marcus Pollard signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks today. Pollard spent the past two seasons with the Detroit Lions after 10 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. He had only 12 catches this past season but has been a reliable receiver for most of...
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 8:13 PM ET | Email a Comment
J. Stevens Arrested
Tight end Jerramy Stevens was arrested early this morning in Scottsdale, Ariz., on drunk driving and marijuana possession charges. Stevens posted bail and a court appearance was scheduled for April 2. The arrest comes at a particularly bad time for Stevens, who is an unrestricted free agent after five...
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 8:09 PM ET | Comments (2)
Packers Add F. Walker as Potential Third Cornerback
Cornerback Frank Walker signed a one-year deal with the Green Bay Packers, leaving the New York Giants. He could be the Packers' third cornerback. His contract could be worth $1.5 million, including incentives....
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 8:03 PM ET | Email a Comment
T. Fisher to Lions
The Detroit Lions signed cornerback Travis Fisher as a free agent. He was a former starter for the St. Louis Rams but missed the final nine games of this past season because of a broken arm....
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 8:01 PM ET | Email a Comment
Cardinals Fire R. Anderson After Arrest
The Arizona Cardinals fired Richie Anderson as their wide receivers coach. The former NFL running back was arrested last week for solicitation of prostitution, and Coach Ken Whisenhunt made the decision after speaking to Anderson over the weekend....
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 9:40 AM ET | Comments (5)
Texans Re-Sign Bruener
The Houston Texans re-signed free agent tight end Mark Bruener. He had nine catches this past season and has 152 receptions in his 12-year NFL career spent with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Texans....
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 9:39 AM ET | Email a Comment
Dolphins Shopping Kicker Mare
The Miami Dolphins are trying to trade kicker Olindo Mare before being forced to possibly release him. They're shopping him to the New York Giants and other teams. The Giants lost kicker Jay Feely when he signed with the Dolphins as a free agent....
By Mark Maske | March 13, 2007; 7:24 AM ET | Comments (2)
R. Fowler Switches Course, Signs Offer Sheet With Titans Instead of Eagles
It happens at least once a year in free agency: A player agrees to a deal and then backs out of it to sign a better deal with another team. This year, it happened on the restricted free agent market. On Sunday, Dallas Cowboys linebacker Ryan Fowler agreed to...
By Mark Maske | March 12, 2007; 8:19 PM ET | Comments (2)
Bills Re-Sign A. Thomas
Free agent tailback Anthony Thomas re-signed with the Buffalo Bills. Thomas was a two-time 1,000-yard rusher for the Chicago Bears before being relegated to backup status the last two seasons with the New Orleans Saints and the Bills. He ran for 378 yards for Buffalo this past season but...
By Mark Maske | March 12, 2007; 8:12 PM ET | Email a Comment
Receiver S. McDonald Rejoins Martz With Lions
Wide receiver Shaun McDonald left the St. Louis Rams via free agency by agreeing to a two-year, $2.8 million deal with the Detroit Lions that includes $1.5 million in guaranteed money. McDonald had 106 catches in four seasons with the Rams, including a high of 46 in 2005. The...
By Mark Maske | March 12, 2007; 8:07 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Stay at It, Add K. Washington
The New England Patriots continue their frenzied free agent activity. Today they reached a contract agreement with Kelley Washington, a wide receiver formerly with the Cincinnati Bengals. Washington had nine catches this past season and totaled 72 receptions in four seasons with the Bengals. He's the second free agent...
By Mark Maske | March 12, 2007; 3:07 PM ET | Email a Comment
E. Smith to Serve as ESPN Studio Analyst
Career rushing champion Emmitt Smith is joining ESPN as an NFL analyst, the network announced today. Smith is to work on the network's Monday night pregame show, among other assignments....
By Mark Maske | March 12, 2007; 2:57 PM ET | Comments (1)
K. Curtis Choice Near?
Free agent wide receiver Kevin Curtis probably is close to picking a new team now that he's hired Bruce and Ryan Tollner as his agents. Curtis had to wait the required five days after firing Tom Condon. Curtis, formerly of the St. Louis Rams, has drawn interest from the...
By Mark Maske | March 12, 2007; 10:30 AM ET | Email a Comment
Eagles Sign Cowboys Linebacker to Offer Sheet
The Philadelphia Eagles signed linebacker Ryan Fowler, a restricted free agent from the Dallas Cowboys, to a four-year, $10.5 million offer sheet. The Cowboys have a week to decide whether to retain Fowler by matching the offer. He would compete for a starting job in Philadelphia but probably would...
By Mark Maske | March 12, 2007; 10:26 AM ET | Email a Comment
D. Stallworth Chooses Patriots
Wide receiver Donte Stallworth reached a contract agreement today with the New England Patriots, an NFL source said. The six-year deal could be worth as much as approximately $33 million, according to the source. Stallworth, a former first-round draft pick by the New Orleans Saints, spent this past season...
By Mark Maske | March 11, 2007; 7:19 PM ET | Comments (1)
R. Hood to Cardinals
Free agent cornerback Rod Hood agreed to a five-year, $15 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday. He leaves the Philadelphia Eagles, for whom he was a part-time starter this past season....
By Mark Maske | March 11, 2007; 2:30 PM ET | Email a Comment
Steelers Add Mahan to Vie for Center Job
Free agent offensive lineman Sean Mahan, formerly of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, agreed to a five-year contract Saturday with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mahan is to compete for the starting job at center next season in Pittsburgh and is the first free agent added by the Steelers this offseason....
By Mark Maske | March 11, 2007; 2:13 PM ET | Email a Comment
D. Edwards Returns to Chiefs
Linebacker Donnie Edwards returned to the Kansas City Chiefs by agreeing to a three-year, $13.5 million contract. The deal includes $7.5 million in guaranteed money. Edwards began his NFL career with six seasons with the Chiefs before spending five seasons with the San Diego Chargers....
By Mark Maske | March 11, 2007; 2:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Plummer Insists He Really Is Retiring
Jake Plummer says he's retiring. Really. People around the league have remained suspicious that the quarterback's threat to retire merely is a ploy to try to get himself to the Houston Texans, where he'd be the starter and would be reunited with former Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak,...
By Mark Maske | March 10, 2007; 12:16 PM ET | Email a Comment
Lions Stockpiling Runners
The Detroit Lions are giving themselves plenty of options at running back with Kevin Jones possibly sidelined for much or all of next season with a foot injury. Friday's signing of free agent T.J. Duckett means the former Washington Redskins spare part can split time with Tatum Bell if...
By Mark Maske | March 10, 2007; 12:15 PM ET | Email a Comment
Seahawks Make It Two Safeties in Two Days
The Seattle Seahawks, displeased with the play of their safeties this past season, remade the position in a two-day span. The Seahawks signed Brian Russell on Friday, a day after signing fellow free agent Deon Grant. Russell leaves the Cleveland Browns, for whom he played for two seasons following...
By Mark Maske | March 10, 2007; 12:01 PM ET | Email a Comment
Browns Sign Bengals Lineman to Offer Sheet
The Cleveland Browns signed defensive tackle Shaun Smith, a restricted free agent from the Cincinnati Bengals, to an offer sheet. The Bengals have a week to decide whether to retain Smith by matching the Browns' offer. They would not receive draft-pick compensation if they allow Smith to go to...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 8:25 PM ET | Email a Comment
Raiders Stay Busy
The Oakland Raiders stayed busy today after signing tailback Dominic Rhodes as a free agent. They also gave him some help. The Raiders signed fullback Justin Griffith, a free agent from the Atlanta Falcons, and two free agent tight ends, the Cincinnati Bengals' Tony Stewart and the Arizona Cardinals'...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 8:19 PM ET | Email a Comment
Cowboys Re-Sign Colombo
The Dallas Cowboys re-signed free agent offensive tackle Marc Colombo to a two-year, $7 million contract. Colombo revived his injury-plagued NFL career with the Cowboys this past season, winning the team's starting job at right tackle. The Cowboys remained intent upon re-signing him even after signing Leonard Davis as...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 4:55 PM ET | Email a Comment
Giants Trade for Droughns
The New York Giants, needing a running back to replace the retired Tiki Barber, obtained Reuben Droughns today in a trade with the Cleveland Browns. The Giants sent wide receiver Tim Carter to Cleveland for Droughns, who is likely to split time with Brandon Jacobs with the Giants. Droughns...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 4:53 PM ET | Email a Comment
J. Harrington, Tuiasosopo Among Panthers' Backup Quarterback Possibilities
The Carolina Panthers are looking for a backup quarterback after releasing Chris Weinke. Free agents Marques Tuiasosopo and Joey Harrington are among the possibilities....
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 3:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Super Bowl Standout Rhodes Agrees to Deal with Raiders
Tailback Dominic Rhodes left the Super Bowl champion Indianapolis Colts via free agency by agreeing today to a two-year, $7.5 million contract with the Oakland Raiders. Rhodes split carries with rookie Joseph Addai for the Colts this past season and was courted by several teams in free agency, including...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 1:28 PM ET | Comments (4)
Eagles Re-Sign Cornerback
The Philadelphia Eagles re-signed free agent cornerback Will James. James signed with the Eagles last season after beginning his career with the New York Giants, when he went by the name Will Peterson....
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 1:27 PM ET | Email a Comment
Eagles Talking to K. Curtis
Even as they try to re-sign Donte Stallworth, the Philadelphia Eagles are looking at another free agent wide receiver as a possible replacement. Kevin Curtis, an unrestricted free agent from the St. Louis Rams, is scheduled to visit the Eagles today. Curtis already has visited the New York Giants,...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 10:29 AM ET | Email a Comment
Decision Day for D. Stallworth?
Free agent wide receiver Donte Stallworth might be making his decision today. He's made visits in recent days to the Tennessee Titans, Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots. The Philadelphia Eagles, the team with which Stallworth spent this past season, apparently remain in the running and the San Francisco...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2007; 9:47 AM ET | Email a Comment
Seahawks Release Wistrom, Add D. Grant
The Seattle Seahawks released defensive end Grant Wistrom and reached a contract agreement with free agent safety Deon Grant. This week's signing of free agent defensive end Patrick Kerney by the Seahawks made Wistrom expendable. He was regarded as a major acquisition in 2004 when he signed a six-year,...
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 11:32 PM ET | Email a Comment
Texans Add J. Black to Offensive Tackle Mix
Free agent offensive tackle Jordan Black agreed to a two-year, $3.5 million contract with the Houston Texans. The deal includes a $1.5 million signing bonus. For now, the Texans' starters at offensive tackle are Charles Spencer and Eric Winston. But Spencer is working his way back from a broken...
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 9:48 PM ET | Email a Comment
Niners Keep Punter by Matching Steelers' Offer Sheet
The San Francisco 49ers retained punter Andy Lee by matching an offer sheet he'd signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a restricted free agent. Lee was the first restricted free agent to sign an offer sheet with another team this offseason. The offer matched by the 49ers was for...
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 9:30 PM ET | Email a Comment
Rams Get T. Johnson, Too
The St. Louis Rams made an addition on defense today as well as one on offense. They agreed to a contract with safety Todd Johnson. Earlier, they'd added tight end Randy McMichael. Johnson got a four-year, $4 million deal from the Rams, leaving the Chicago Bears. McMichael agreed to...
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 9:17 PM ET | Email a Comment
Cardinals Add T. Holt at Safety
The Arizona Cardinals signed free agent safety Terrence Holt, formerly of the Detroit Lions. Holt signed a five-year, $15 million deal that includes $4 million in guaranteed money....
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 8:02 PM ET | Email a Comment
McGahee Getting New Deal From Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are giving just-acquired tailback Willis McGahee the new contract he wanted. According to an NFL source, McGahee has agreed to a five-year contract with the Ravens worth about $26 million, including $15 million in bonus money. The deal also contains two option years that, if exercised,...
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 6:05 PM ET | Comments (3)
Eagles Add B. Johnson
The Philadelphia Eagles signed wide receiver and kick returner Bethel Johnson. Johnson played in 11 games this past season for the Minnesota Vikings after three seasons with the New England Patriots. He's had more success as a kickoff returner than as a receiver....
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 4:09 PM ET | Email a Comment
Dolphins Re-Sign Traylor
The Miami Dolphins re-signed free agent defensive tackle Keith Traylor. The Dolphins also added safety Cameron Worrell, a free agent from the Chicago Bears....
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 3:36 PM ET | Email a Comment
R. McMichael to Rams
The St. Louis Rams agreed to a three-year contract with tight end Randy McMichael, who'd been released by the Miami Dolphins. McMichael had 62 catches this past season and averaged 57 catches per year in five seasons with the Dolphins....
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 3:35 PM ET | Email a Comment
Ravens, Bills Agree to McGahee Trade
The Baltimore Ravens have agreed to trade a package of draft picks to the Buffalo Bills for tailback Willis McGahee, an NFL source said. The Ravens will trade third-round choices in each of the next two drafts along with a late-round selection this year, said the source, who spoke...
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 12:41 PM ET | Email a Comment
Dillon Visit to Buffalo Another Sign that McGahee-to-Ravens Trade Could Be Near?
Free agent tailback Corey Dillon is scheduled to visit the Buffalo Bills today. The Bills already are looking for a replacement for Willis McGahee even before they trade him. They previously hosted free agents Dominic Rhodes and Chris Brown. It's thought the Bills are close to trading McGahee, probably...
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 11:16 AM ET | Comments (2)
Horn, Falcons Agree
Wide receiver Joe Horn agreed to a contract with the Atlanta Falcons late Wednesday night. Horn was a free agent after being released by the New Orleans Saints last week. He made the Falcons his top choice and spent several days meeting with team officials this week in Atlanta....
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 9:44 AM ET | Email a Comment
Giants Lose Kicker to Dolphins
Free agent kicker Jay Feely agreed to a three-year contract with the Miami Dolphins worth approximately $6 million. Feely's previous team, the New York Giants, had been trying to re-sign him and he'd drawn interest from other clubs as well. But he made a visit to Miami this week...
By Mark Maske | March 8, 2007; 8:41 AM ET | Email a Comment
J. Lewis to Browns, Ravens Zeroing In on McGahee
Tailback Jamal Lewis, released by the Baltimore Ravens last week, agreed to a one-year contract with the Cleveland Browns and the Ravens seem intent on replacing him by trading for the Buffalo Bills' Willis McGahee. The Ravens released Lewis a week ago but indicated they were interested in re-signing...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 9:40 PM ET | Comments (1)
P. Ramsey to be Broncos' Backup
Free agent quarterback Patrick Ramsey agreed to a two-year, $5 million contract with the Denver Broncos. Ramsey, a former first-round draft choice by the Washington Redskins who just was released by the New York Jets, is to back up starter Jay Cutler in Denver. He replaces Jake Plummer, who...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 8:39 PM ET | Comments (2)
E. Johnson, Saints Agree
Tight end Eric Johnson, a free agent from the San Francisco 49ers, agreed to a one-year, $2 million deal with the New Orleans Saints. Johnson had 34 catches this past season. His best season came in 2004, when he had 82 receptions for 825 yards and two touchdowns....
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 7:34 PM ET | Email a Comment
Horn, Falcons Close
Free agent wide receiver Joe Horn is close to signing with the Atlanta Falcons. The two sides are deep into contract negotiations and hope to complete a deal tonight. Horn was a four-time Pro Bowl selection for the New Orleans Saints before being released last week. He drew interest...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 7:33 PM ET | Email a Comment
Packers Release Fullback Henderson
The Green Bay Packers released fullback William Henderson. Henderson played in 188 games for the Packers, the fourth-most in franchise history behind Brett Favre, Bart Starr and Ray Nitschke....
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 6:55 PM ET | Email a Comment
Ravens Release Mulitalo
The Baltimore Ravens released veteran guard Edwin Mulitalo. The move clears salary cap space for the Ravens to make other maneuvers. They're trying to add a tailback, either by re-signing Jamal Lewis or perhaps by trading for the Buffalo Bills' Willis McGahee....
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 4:38 PM ET | Email a Comment
J. Horn Negotiating with Falcons
Four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Joe Horn, released by the New Orleans Saints, is negotiating with the Atlanta Falcons. Horn met with team officials Tuesday in the Atlanta area and now the two sides are trying to work out a contract....
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 4:34 PM ET | Email a Comment
Punter is First Restricted Free Agent to Sign Offer Sheet
The NFL's restricted free agent market is up and running, too. The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed San Francisco 49ers punter Andy Lee to an offer sheet. The 49ers have a week to decide whether to match the offer to retain Lee or allow him to go to the Steelers...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 1:25 PM ET | Email a Comment
F. Thomas Accepts Pay Cut to Stay with Saints
New Orleans Saints opponents picked on cornerback Fred Thomas often during the club's run to the NFC title game, but the team is keeping him around. Thomas agreed to an $800,000 pay cut, from $3 million to $2.2 million, to keep the Saints from releasing him....
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 1:23 PM ET | Email a Comment
Rams Keep Steussie Around
The St. Louis Rams re-signed veteran offensive lineman Todd Steussie. He made 15 starts for the Rams this past season because of injuries but is slated to return to backup duty next season....
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 1:22 PM ET | Email a Comment
Dolphins are Possibility for T. Green
One possible landing spot for Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Trent Green could be Miami. The Chiefs have asked Green to renegotiate a contract that is to pay him a $7.2 million salary next season. The Chiefs re-signed Damon Huard and have young quarterback Brodie Croyle and it's possible they'll...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 11:45 AM ET | Email a Comment
Bills Studying Possible Replacements for McGahee
The Buffalo Bills are shopping tailback Willis McGahee and have begun to look at possible replacements. Tailback Dominic Rhodes visited the Bills on Tuesday. Fellow free agent Chris Brown is scheduled to visit today. The New York Giants and Baltimore Ravens are among the teams that have expressed interest...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 10:36 AM ET | Comments (2)
Texans, Broncos Considering P. Ramsey
Free agent quarterback Patrick Ramsey visited the Houston Texans on Tuesday. The former first-round draft choice by the Washington Redskins just was released by the New York Jets after one season as their backup. The Texans are listening to trade offers for their starting quarterback, David Carr. It's possible...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 9:56 AM ET | Comments (3)
Saints, Vanderjagt Talking
Kicker Mike Vanderjagt met with New Orleans Saints officials Tuesday. Vanderjagt has been out of the league since being released by the Dallas Cowboys during the season. He missed five of his 18 field goal attempts for the Cowboys but remains the most accurate field goal kicker in NFL...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 9:51 AM ET | Comments (2)
Four Teams Chasing D. Stallworth
It appears to be a four-team race for free agent wide receiver Donte Stallworth. He is scheduled to visit the Tennessee Titans today after meeting Tuesday with the New England Patriots. A visit to the Miami Dolphins is scheduled for Thursday and Stallworth and agent Drew Rosenhaus continue to...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 9:42 AM ET | Comments (1)
Graham Leaves Patriots for Broncos
Tight end Daniel Graham left the New England Patriots via free agency by agreeing to a five-year, $30 million deal with the Denver Broncos. The contract includes $15 million in guaranteed money. The former first-round draft choice had 120 catches in five seasons for the Patriots, including 21 this...
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 8:49 AM ET | Email a Comment
Feely Generating Interest on Kicker Market
Free agent kicker Jay Feely visited the Miami Dolphins on Tuesday. The Dolphins would release Olindo Mare if they can sign Feely. But the New York Giants are attempting to re-sign Feely and the Kansas City Chiefs and Atlanta Falcons also are interested....
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2007; 7:05 AM ET | Email a Comment
C. Palmer Gets Wish as Bengals Re-Sign Tight End
Quarterback Carson Palmer lobbied publicly just after the season ended for the Cincinnati Bengals to re-sign two free agents, tailback Kenny Watson and tight end Reggie Kelly. The Bengals were listening. They made it two for two by re-signing Kelly to a three-year, $9 million deal today. The club...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 11:56 PM ET | Email a Comment
Receiver B. Wade Signs with Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings signed free agent wide receiver Bobby Wade to a five-year, $15 million contract. Wade had 33 catches this past season for the Tennessee Titans....
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 11:30 PM ET | Email a Comment
Raiders Give Newberry Another Chance
Former Pro Bowl center Jeremy Newberry signed a one-year, $1.5 million contract with the Oakland Raiders. Career-threatening knee problems limited Newberry to 11 games over the past three seasons with the San Francisco 49ers....
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 11:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Panthers Release Weinke
The Carolina Panthers released reserve quarterback Chris Weinke. The former Heisman Trophy winner at Florida State made three starts for the Panthers this past season when Jake Delhomme was hurt....
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 7:16 PM ET | Comments (1)
New Deal for T. Jones with Jets
The New York Jets signed tailback Thomas Jones to a four-year, $20 million contract extension. The deal comes a day after the Jets obtained Jones in a trade with the Chicago Bears....
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 7:12 PM ET | Email a Comment
T. Green's Future with Chiefs Murky
The Kansas City Chiefs are asking quarterback Trent Green to renegotiate a contract that is to pay him a $7.2 million salary for next season. The Chiefs re-signed Damon Huard and have young quarterback Brodie Croyle, and might trade or release Green if the two sides can't agree to...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 7:11 PM ET | Email a Comment
Active Niners Continue to Remake Defense By Signing Banta-Cain
The San Francisco 49ers continue to be active. Today they agreed to a contract with linebacker Tully Banta-Cain, a free agent from the New England Patriots. The 49ers have remade their defense in free agency by signing cornerback Nate Clements, safety Michael Lewis, tackle Aubrayo Franklin and Banta-Cain. They've...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 2:02 PM ET | Comments (4)
Chiefs Add N. Harris at Linebacker
Free agent linebacker Napoleon Harris agreed to a six-year contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs are penciling in Harris, most recently of the Minnesota Vikings, as their starter at middle linebacker. If they re-sign their starter at the position this past season, free agent Kawika Mitchell, they...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 1:57 PM ET | Email a Comment
J. Porter's Deal
According to an NFL source, linebacker Joey Porter's contract with the Miami Dolphins is worth about $32.5 million over five seasons. The deal includes approximately $20 million in guaranteed money....
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 11:03 AM ET | Comments (4)
J. Porter Reportedly Chooses Dolphins
Linebacker Joey Porter reportedly has decided to sign with the Miami Dolphins. WPXI-TV in Pittsburgh reported that Porter chose the Dolphins over the Cincinnati Bengals and will sign a deal with a signing bonus of around $12 million. The Pittsburgh Steelers released the three-time Pro Bowl selection last week....
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 10:55 AM ET | Comments (1)
Early Thoughts on Winners and Losers
An early look at some free agency winners and losers: Winners: 49ers: Okay, maybe they overpaid for cornerback Nate Clements. But he makes the defense better. So does safety Michael Lewis. Ashley Lelie isn't a great receiver but he has speed and that should open up space for tight...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 10:45 AM ET | Comments (4)
Cardinals Sign A. Johnson
The Arizona Cardinals signed free agent center Al Johnson, formerly of the Dallas Cowboys. Johnson was a former starter in Dallas but was beaten out for the job at center last season by Andre Gurode. The Cowboys and Cardinals swapped free agent offensive linemen in recent days, with guard...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 10:33 AM ET | Email a Comment
Saints Add Simmons, Look at Vanderjagt
The New Orleans Saints agreed to a contract with veteran linebacker Brian Simmons, a free agent who'd been released by the Cincinnati Bengals. The Saints remade their linebacking corps before this past season by acquiring Scott Fujita, Scott Shanle and Mark Simoneau and now hope they've added another productive...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 10:10 AM ET | Email a Comment
Kerney Chooses Seahawks Over Broncos
One of the top remaining free agents came off the board when defensive end Patrick Kerney agreed to a six-year, $39.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks. The deal includes $19.5 million in guaranteed money. The Seahawks prevailed over Kerney's other finalist, the Denver Broncos. Kerney spent his first...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2007; 9:53 AM ET | Email a Comment