Archive: League
Many Rookie Contract Negotiations Temporarily on Hold
Quarterback Joe Flacco, a first-round draft pick in April, agreed to a contract with the Baltimore Ravens in recent days but most negotiations league-wide between teams and their first- and second-round selections have been put temporarily on hold. Agents for those players and team negotiators are awaiting an arbitration...
By Mark Maske | July 18, 2008; 10:07 AM ET | Comments (2)
Thoughts on Tampering Charge in Favre Case
The Green Bay Packers reportedly have accused the Minnesota Vikings of tampering with quarterback Brett Favre, and the league office is investigating. In the past, this would be the sort of matter that probably would go away quietly. Tampering was easy to allege but difficult to prove, and there...
By Mark Maske | July 17, 2008; 01:01 PM ET | Comments (1)
Rookie Pay Issue Remains Hot Topic
The issue of rookie pay isn't going away. It promises to be a major topic of debate in the upcoming labor negotiations. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell made that clear last week when he spoke out on the topic, calling the escalating salaries and bonuses that teams give to just-drafted...
By Mark Maske | July 2, 2008; 09:43 AM ET | Comments (4)
Teams Getting Earlier Starts On Rookie Negotiations
I always used to wonder why the way of the NFL was to draft a player in April, have him in for a rookie minicamp and some other offseason practices, and then say goodbye to him for the action-less period on the league calendar between mid-June and early July...
By Mark Maske | June 26, 2008; 09:42 AM ET | Email a Comment
Owners' Support for NFL Network Wavering?
When the NFL's franchise owners decided, along with former commissioner Paul Tagliabue, to pass up rights fees from a TV network and put a package of prime time games on Thursdays and Saturdays on the league-owned NFL Network, they said they wanted to create a unique business asset. They...
By Mark Maske | June 23, 2008; 11:10 AM ET | Email a Comment
Specter On Spygate: "I've Gone As Far As I Can"
Even Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) now appears ready to allow the Spygate scandal to fade away. The Philadelphia Daily News reported that Specter told the newspaper's editorial board Monday that he won't ask fellow Capitol Hill lawmakers to pursue the matter and won't request hearings of the Senate Judiciary...
By Mark Maske | June 17, 2008; 10:37 AM ET | Comments (6)
Accorsi Named Co-Chairman of League's New GM Advisory Committee
The NFL announced today that former New York Giants general manager Ernie Accorsi will work as a consultant for the league and will serve as co-chairman of a newly formed general managers advisory committee. Accorsi was out of the league last season, having retired after assembling much of the...
By Mark Maske | June 16, 2008; 08:54 PM ET | Email a Comment
C. Henry Suspended Indefinitely
The NFL suspended former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry indefinitely. Henry was released by the Bengals in April after he was charged with assault and criminal damaging. It was the latest in a series of off-field issues for Henry, who was suspended by the league for the first...
By Mark Maske | June 13, 2008; 11:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Three Bills Players Subpoenaed in Lynch Case
Three Buffalo Bills players reportedly have been subpoenaed to testify before a grand jury in the hit-and-run case involving Bills tailback Marshawn Lynch. The Buffalo News reported that the players are offensive lineman Christian Gaddis and rookie wide receivers James Hardy and Steve Johnson. A grand jury has been...
By Mark Maske | June 13, 2008; 10:14 AM ET | Email a Comment
Anyone Need A Running Back?
For those keeping track, the list of unemployed tailbacks now includes Shaun Alexander, Travis Henry and Cedric Benson. They remain unsigned along with quarterbacks Daunte Culpepper and Byron Leftwich....
By Mark Maske | June 10, 2008; 02:20 PM ET | Comments (3)
Prosecutor Says Vick's State Trial Will Come After Release From Federal Prison
Michael Vick's trial on state dogfighting charges reportedly will not begin until after he's released from federal prison. Prosecutor Gerald Poindexter told the Associated Press that it would be too expensive for Surry County to pay for Vick and his co-defendants to travel to Virginia for their trials. Vick...
By Mark Maske | June 10, 2008; 11:08 AM ET | Email a Comment
O. Thurman Suspended Indefinitely by League
Former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Odell Thurman has been suspended indefinitely by the NFL for violating the league's substance abuse policy. A league spokesman told the Associated Press that Thurman will not be eligible for reinstatement until after next season. Thurman missed the last two seasons for violations of the...
By Mark Maske | June 7, 2008; 02:28 PM ET | Email a Comment
D. Jacobs's Death Ruled Suicide
The death of Plano, Tex., personal trainer David Jacobs was ruled a suicide Friday by the Dallas County medical examiner. Jacobs had been found shot to death in his home. He was a convicted steroids dealer who had spoken to NFL representatives last month about players to which he...
By Mark Maske | June 6, 2008; 09:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Specter Repeats Call for NFL to Hire Outside Investigator
Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) hasn't forgotten about Spygate just yet. Specter entered a floor statement into the Congressional record Thursday. He reiterated the same points he's been making all along, repeating his criticisms that the NFL's investigation of the videotaping scandal involving the New England Patriots was insufficient. He...
By Mark Maske | June 6, 2008; 09:47 AM ET | Comments (2)
Steroids Dealer Who Met With NFL Officials Reportedly Found Dead in Home
A convicted steroids dealer who had met recently with NFL representatives was found shot to death today, according to reports. Plano, Tex., personal trainer David Jacobs, 35, was found dead in his home when police went there to make a welfare check, the Associated Press reported. Amando Jo Earhart-Savell,...
By Mark Maske | June 5, 2008; 02:55 PM ET | Email a Comment
NFL Grants Pacman Jones "Limited Reinstatement"
The NFL has released the following statement about Dallas Cowboys cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones, who's been suspended for more than a year under the league's personal conduct policy: "Commissioner Roger Goodell notified Adam Jones today that, effective immediately, he may participate in organized team activities with the Dallas Cowboys,...
By Mark Maske | June 2, 2008; 06:30 PM ET | Comments (1)
Pacman Jones Reportedly Met With Goodell Last Week
Suspended Dallas Cowboys cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell last week in Atlanta, the Dallas Morning News reported today. Goodell is readying to decide whether Jones will be permitted to join offseason workouts with the Cowboys. He also is to rule before training camps open...
By Mark Maske | May 28, 2008; 09:37 AM ET | Comments (1)
New Orleans to Bid to Host 2013 Super Bowl
New Orleans reportedly will bid to host the Super Bowl in 2013. The city has hosted nine Super Bowls, but none since 2002. The longterm future of the Saints franchise was put in question when Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, but team owner Tom Benson told the New Orleans...
By Mark Maske | May 27, 2008; 10:12 AM ET | Email a Comment
League Probe of Non-Videotaping Allegations Against Patriots by Walsh Ongoing
The NFL continues to investigate two non-videotaping allegations against the New England Patriots made by their former video assistant, Matt Walsh. When he met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell 10 days ago in New York to be interviewed about the videotaping scandal, Walsh also told Goodell and other league...
By Mark Maske | May 23, 2008; 12:03 PM ET | Comments (1)
Goodell Says League Will Begin Fining Teams Under Conduct Policy
ATLANTA--Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the NFL will begin fining teams as part of its personal conduct policy. Whenever a player is suspended without pay for a violation of the policy, Goodell said, a portion of the withheld pay will go to the league. The percentage taken by the...
By Mark Maske | May 20, 2008; 05:51 PM ET | Email a Comment
Indianapolis Awarded 2012 Super Bowl
ATLANTA--The owners awarded the 2012 Super Bowl to Indianapolis. The game will be played at the Colts' new stadium, Lucas Oil Stadium, that opens next season. The other finalists were Houston and Arizona. Indianapolis was regarded as a virtual lock to get the game after being edged out in...
By Mark Maske | May 20, 2008; 03:22 PM ET | Comments (5)
Owners Also Talking About Adding 17th Regular Season Game
ATLANTA--NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell just conducted a news conference and said the owners voted to exercise the reopener clause in the labor deal because it was clear to them that the agreement wasn't working and they saw no need to wait until closer to the November deadline. Goodell said...
By Mark Maske | May 20, 2008; 01:06 PM ET | Comments (5)
Upshaw Says Owners' Move Not Surprising
ATLANTA--NFL Players Association chief Gene Upshaw just spoke to reporters in a half-hour conference call. Upshaw said he wasn't the least bit surprised about the owners' decision today to terminate their labor deal with the union early. "I expected that," Upshaw said. "I don't think that was a shock...
By Mark Maske | May 20, 2008; 01:05 PM ET | Email a Comment
Owners Opt Out of Labor Deal Early
ATLANTA--The NFL's franchise owners voted here today to end their labor deal with the players' union early. The owners' decision means that the deal, ratified in March 2006, expires after the 2010 season. The 2009 season becomes the final one with a salary cap. The labor agreement contained a...
By Mark Maske | May 20, 2008; 10:12 AM ET | Comments (24)
It's Still Unclear if There Will Be a Labor Vote Tomorrow
It's not definite, by the way, that the owners will take a vote Tuesday in Atlanta about terminating the labor deal early. People familiar with the owners' deliberations say it remains unclear whether the owners will vote, or simply discuss the labor situation and postpone taking any actions until...
By Mark Maske | May 19, 2008; 03:56 PM ET | Email a Comment
Pacman Jones Reportedly to Seek Permission to Participate in Cowboys' Workouts
Suspended Cowboys cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones told the Dallas Morning News that he plans to ask NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell for permission to participate in the team's offseason workouts. Goodell has said he will reconsider Jones's status before training camp. Jones has been suspended for more than a year...
By Mark Maske | May 19, 2008; 03:54 PM ET | Email a Comment
Owners' Meetings Today and Tomorrow in Atlanta
The owners are gathering today in Atlanta. There are some committee meetings scheduled for today, and a one-day full owners' meeting is to take place Tuesday. The big news will be whether the owners vote to exercise the reopener clause in their labor deal with the players' union. The...
By Mark Maske | May 19, 2008; 11:03 AM ET | Email a Comment
Belichick Says Walsh Lacks Credibility
New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick fired back at former Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh during an interview with CBS News aired this evening. "I don't know what the agenda is," Belichick said. "Again, he was fired here for poor job performance. There's not a lot of credibility. You...
By Mark Maske | May 16, 2008; 06:58 PM ET | Comments (11)
Martz Issues Statement About Rams' Walk-Through
Former St. Louis Rams coach Mike Martz has issued a statement about the circumstances surrounding the team's walk-through before it played the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl in 2002. It says: "I had the opportunity to talk to Commissioner [Roger] Goodell yesterday and I was very satisfied...
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2008; 08:17 PM ET | Comments (6)
More From Matt Walsh's HBO Interview
In today's print edition, we wrote about Matt Walsh's interview with HBO scheduled to air Friday night. The story focuses on Walsh's contention that the New England Patriots gained a significant competitive advantage from their illegal videotaping program and quotes him extensively from excerpts from the interview released by...
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2008; 08:10 PM ET | Comments (3)
Ted Kennedy Says Senate Has More Important Business
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) says the New England Patriots' videotaping scandal should not be a matter for Congressional scrutiny. "With the war in Iraq raging on, gasoline prices closing in on $4 a gallon, and Americans losing their homes at record rates to foreclosure, the United States Senate...
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2008; 07:52 PM ET | Comments (3)
Daboll Does Not Verify Walsh's Account Of Rams' Walk-Through Info
A former New England Patriots assistant coach did not verify the account given to the NFL this week by Matt Walsh about relaying information from the St. Louis Rams' walk-through before the Super Bowl in 2002. The league has announced that members of its security department re-interviewed Brian Daboll,...
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2008; 07:51 PM ET | Email a Comment
Specter Calls for Independent Investigation
Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) today called for the NFL to appoint an independent investigator to look into the videotaping scandal involving the New England Patriots. "What is necessary is an objective investigation," Specter said during a Capitol Hill news conference. "This one has not been objective." Specter, the ranking...
By Mark Maske | May 14, 2008; 02:06 PM ET | Comments (9)
Boston Herald Issues Apology
The Boston Herald has issued an apology for its admittedly "false" Feb. 2 report that the New England Patriots videotaped the St. Louis Rams' walk-through before the two teams played in the Super Bowl in 2002. The apology, printed in today's editions, reads: "On Feb. 2, 2008, the Boston...
By Mark Maske | May 14, 2008; 07:10 AM ET | Comments (5)
Something to Keep In Mind About the Patriots' September Penalties
The delivery of eight videotapes to the NFL's offices Thursday from former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh is producing calls for the league to impose new penalties upon the Patriots. It's not my place in this situation to express an opinion about what the league should or...
By Mark Maske | May 9, 2008; 10:43 AM ET | Comments (14)
Specter Issues Statement
Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) has released a statement about the latest developments in the "SpyGate" case. It says: "I think it is very unfortunate that the NFL has already started its 'nothing new' spin before watching the tapes or finding out what Mr. Matt Walsh has to say. Let's...
By Mark Maske | May 8, 2008; 07:00 PM ET | Comments (2)
Tapes Being Reviewed By League
The eight videotapes handed over to the league by former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh arrived in the NFL's offices in New York today, as promised. They're being reviewed by league officials. It's too soon to say for certain there won't be any further penalties imposed on...
By Mark Maske | May 8, 2008; 03:40 PM ET | Comments (3)
Is SpyGate Almost Over?
Is the "SpyGate" scandal now just about over? Perhaps. The lawyer for former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh sent a letter to the NFL Wednesday saying that eight videotapes from Walsh will arrive at the league's offices in New York today. Today is the deadline for Walsh...
By Mark Maske | May 8, 2008; 09:51 AM ET | Comments (2)
Walsh Turns Over Eight Tapes to League But Not One of Rams' Walk-Through
The NFL has been sent eight videotapes by former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh, a league official said tonight. All of them are games between the 2000 and 2002 seasons in which the Patriots taped opponents' play signals. Included were games against the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills,...
By Mark Maske | May 7, 2008; 09:35 PM ET | Comments (20)
League Threatening to Penalize Teams Under Conduct Policy
When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell toughened the league's personal conduct policy last year, the revised policy included a provision that allows him to penalize any team with a significant number of offending players or other employees. Goodell recently told the Dallas Morning News that he intends to begin utilizing...
By Mark Maske | May 7, 2008; 10:17 AM ET | Comments (1)
Police Reportedly Saying M. Harrison Not a Suspect "At This Point" In Shooting
The Philadelphia police reportedly are not calling Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison a suspect at this time in last week's shooting about which he was questioned. The Indianapolis Star reported that a police spokesperson, Tanya Little, said today: "He's not a suspect at this point." According to the...
By Mark Maske | May 6, 2008; 02:16 PM ET | Comments (1)
Judge Grants C. Henry's Request to Meet With Unnamed NFL Team
A judge reportedly has granted a request by Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry to be released from house arrest and electronic monitoring in order to travel out of town to meet with an NFL team apparently interested in signing him. The Cincinnati Enquirer reported that Henry's attorney made...
By Mark Maske | May 6, 2008; 01:57 PM ET | Comments (2)
Deadline for Walsh to Hand Over "SpyGate" Materials Looming
Soon, we all should know what Matt Walsh knows about "SpyGate." The deadline for the former New England Patriots video assistant to turn over to the league any materials that he possesses related to the videotaping scandal involving his former team is Thursday, under his agreement with the NFL...
By Mark Maske | May 6, 2008; 09:58 AM ET | Comments (1)
M. Harrison Interviewed By Police About Philadelphia Shooting
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison has been interviewed by police about a shooting outside a Philadelphia bar this week. Harrison has not been arrested or charged with any crime at this point. The incident took place Tuesday. Colts and league officials said they were monitoring the situation but...
By Mark Maske | May 2, 2008; 07:12 PM ET | Comments (1)
Eagles Sue T. Owens For Unreturned Bonus Money
The Philadelphia Eagles are suing wide receiver Terrell Owens for bonus money not repaid to them, according to several reports. Owens, now with the Dallas Cowboys, lost an arbitration ruling requiring him to repay the Eagles $1.7 million in bonus money based on his actions in 2005, when the...
By Mark Maske | April 29, 2008; 11:07 AM ET | Comments (2)
Upshaw Says Union Won't Agree to Rookie Wage Scale
Executives from NFL teams again have raised the idea in recent weeks of imposing a rookie wage scale, so that less money is directed to players just entering the league and more is given to established veterans under the salary cap system. But Gene Upshaw, the executive director of...
By Mark Maske | April 28, 2008; 04:32 PM ET | Email a Comment
Flurry of Post-Draft Roster Moves Likely to Come Now
Get ready for a little post-draft flurry of roster moves around the league over the next few days. Teams that fortified certain positions during the draft might release veteran players. Clubs that failed to address particular needs might sign veterans. But that doesn't necessarily mean that the players thought...
By Mark Maske | April 28, 2008; 10:52 AM ET | Email a Comment
Goodell Says He's Prepared to Act if Further Violations By Patriots Are Substantiated
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell spoke to a gathering of sports editors today in New York. There was no major news, but there were a few tidbits. According to Post football editor Cindy Boren, who was on hand, Goodell said he's prepared to punish the New England Patriots severely if...
By Mark Maske | April 24, 2008; 06:43 PM ET | Comments (2)
Assessing the Major Trade Possibilities
Jared Allen and Adam (Pacman) Jones have been traded in recent days. Other significant deals could be in the works. Here's one assessment of the biggest potential (or rumored) draft-weekend trades, by player... Lito Sheppard... The Eagles perhaps have to take what they can get for the cornerback after...
By Mark Maske | April 24, 2008; 10:01 AM ET | Comments (7)
Titans Agree to Trade Pacman Jones to Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys and Tennessee Titans have agreed to a trade involving suspended cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones, a source familiar with the discussions confirmed. The Titans have agreed to trade Jones to the Cowboys for a draft pick, according to the source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity...
By Mark Maske | April 23, 2008; 07:03 PM ET | Comments (25)
Patriots Statement
The New England Patriots have issued a written statement about Matt Walsh's agreement to be interviewed by the league about the "SpyGate" scandal. It says: "The New England Patriots are pleased to learn that Matt Walsh is finally willing to come forward to meet with the NFL. We are...
By Mark Maske | April 23, 2008; 05:07 PM ET | Comments (4)
NFL Completes Deal With Former Patriots Video Assistant
The NFL has completed an agreement with former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh. The deal provides legal protection for Walsh. In return, Walsh is to turn over materials to the league by May 8 and is to meet with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on May 13 in...
By Mark Maske | April 23, 2008; 12:37 PM ET | Comments (18)
League, M. Walsh Nearing Deal
Lawyers for the NFL and former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh are close to completing an agreement that would provide legal protection for Walsh so that he could be interviewed by league officials about the videotaping scandal involving the Patriots. Indications are that the deal could be...
By Mark Maske | April 23, 2008; 11:42 AM ET | Comments (3)
Progress in M. Walsh Negotiations?
Lawyers for the league and former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh continue to negotiate an agreement that would provide legal protection for Walsh if he is interviewed by NFL officials about the videotaping scandal involving the Patriots. There are hopes that a deal perhaps could be completed...
By Mark Maske | April 22, 2008; 05:39 PM ET | Comments (1)
Bengals' Thurman Reinstated
The NFL has reinstated Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Odell Thurman, the team announced today. Thurman missed the last two seasons for violations of the league's substance abuse policy. "Odell has met the NFL's conditions for reinstatement and has been added to our offseason roster," Bengals Coach Marvin Lewis said in...
By Mark Maske | April 21, 2008; 04:47 PM ET | Email a Comment
Walsh Still on League's Radar Screen
The NFL hasn't forgotten about Matt Walsh, the former New England Patriots video assistant who has hinted to media organizations that he has further information about the "SpyGate" scandal. Commissioner Roger Goodell reportedly said during an appearance in the Dallas area Wednesday that he hopes to meet with Walsh...
By Mark Maske | April 18, 2008; 10:21 AM ET | Email a Comment
Pacman Jones Delays Petitioning For Reinstatement, Hoping to be Traded to Cowboys First
Suspended Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones and his representatives have held off on making their latest bid for reinstatement by the NFL, hoping that Jones first will be traded to the Dallas Cowboys in the coming days. The two teams have been negotiating for several weeks and the...
By Mark Maske | April 16, 2008; 10:27 AM ET | Email a Comment
Seven of Eight NFL Network Games Are On Thursday Nights
The league obviously prefers Thursday night games to Saturday night games on the NFL Network. The eight-game package for the league-owned television channel includes seven Thursday night games and only one Saturday nighter. The Thursday night games begin on Nov. 6, three weeks before Thanksgiving, with Denver at Cleveland....
By Mark Maske | April 15, 2008; 06:44 PM ET | Email a Comment
Notable Games
After a quick once-over of the schedule, here are some notable games: Week 1: Redskins at Giants... The Redskins' rookie head coach, Jim Zorn, must visit the defending Super Bowl champions in his debut in the league's season opener. Jets at Dolphins... New Dolphins front office czar Bill Parcells...
By Mark Maske | April 15, 2008; 03:03 PM ET | Comments (3)
Full Schedule Released
Next season's full schedule has been released by the NFL. The New England Patriots, coming off a Super Bowl defeat to the New York Giants on the heels of the first 16-0 regular season in league history, open the 2008 season at home against the Kansas City Chiefs at...
By Mark Maske | April 15, 2008; 02:08 PM ET | Email a Comment
Schedule to be Announced Tuesday Afternoon
Next season's full NFL schedule is to be announced Tuesday at 2 p.m. The featured games during the season's opening weekend, including the season opener between the Washington Redskins and New York Giants on Sept. 4, already have been announced by the league....
By Mark Maske | April 14, 2008; 02:29 PM ET | Email a Comment
Jones-to-Cowboys Trade Could Be On Again
There are rumblings that the proposed trade of suspended cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones from the Tennessee Titans to the Dallas Cowboys perhaps could be completed in the coming days. The trade discussions had stalled at the recent league meeting but apparently have been re-started. It's unclear what the compensation...
By Mark Maske | April 14, 2008; 08:44 AM ET | Email a Comment
Gumbel Leaving NFL Network
Bryant Gumbel is leaving the NFL Network, the league-owned television channel announced today. The veteran broadcaster had served as the play-by-play announcer on the channel's eight-game package of regular season games the past two seasons. "I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to call NFL Network games the past two years,...
By Mark Maske | April 11, 2008; 05:17 PM ET | Comments (7)
Players' Advisory Committee to Discuss Chiefs' Hair Proposal With Goodell
A group of players will meet with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell soon to discuss the Kansas City Chiefs' proposal to restrict players' hair length during games. NFL Players Association chief Gene Upshaw said the members of the players' advisory committee will meet with Goodell to talk about the issue....
By Mark Maske | April 10, 2008; 09:56 AM ET | Email a Comment
Stover Reportedly Seeking to "Clarify" Position in Letter to ESPN
ESPN has published a letter on its website that it says it received today from Baltimore Ravens kicker Matt Stover. In it, Stover writes that he wants to "clarify" his e-mail sent to fellow players in recent days, outlining a plan to replace Gene Upshaw as executive director of...
By Mark Maske | April 9, 2008; 10:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Upshaw Says He's Staying Put Through Negotiations
Gene Upshaw said today that he intends to keep his job as executive director of the NFL Players Association through the upcoming set of labor negotiations with the sport's franchise owners, but he already has informed the players that they should be prepared to choose his successor after that....
By Mark Maske | April 9, 2008; 11:05 AM ET | Email a Comment
P. Daniels on Upshaw
Jason Reid has gotten these comments from Washington Redskins defensive lineman Phillip Daniels on Matt Stover's effort to overthrow Gene Upshaw as executive director of the NFL Players Association: "You know, I really don't understand this. I really don't understand what Matt is doing. I saw the letter pop...
By Mark Maske | April 8, 2008; 08:53 PM ET | Email a Comment
Several Players in Union Leadership Express Support for Upshaw
Tennessee Titans center Kevin Mawae, the newly elected president of the union, has issued a written statement saying that Matt Stover's effort to remove Gene Upshaw as executive director of the NFL Players Association is not a widespread movement. "Matt Stover's letter does not reflect the view of the...
By Mark Maske | April 8, 2008; 06:32 PM ET | Comments (2)
Stover Outlines Plan to Replace Upshaw as Union Chief
Baltimore Ravens kicker Matt Stover sent an e-mail in recent days to fellow player representatives in the NFL Players Association outlining a plan to select a new union executive director by next spring to replace Gene Upshaw. Reached by telephone today, Stover confirmed that he sent the message but...
By Mark Maske | April 8, 2008; 02:39 PM ET | Email a Comment
Blank's Account of Vick Playing Football in Prison Is Disputed
There is some confusion about whether suspended Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick is playing football while serving a 23-month federal prison sentence in Leavenworth, Kan., for his role in a dogfighting operation in Virginia. Falcons owner Arthur Blank told the New York Daily News, in a story published Sunday,...
By Mark Maske | April 8, 2008; 12:21 PM ET | Comments (2)
Most Free Agents Now Out of Luck Until After Draft
The unrestricted free agent market has slowed to a crawl as teams look to the NFL draft, now less than three weeks away, to fill their needs. Most agents for still-available veteran players have all but given up trying to negotiate contracts and find jobs for their clients until...
By Mark Maske | April 8, 2008; 10:24 AM ET | Email a Comment
Owners Reportedly Suspend Debt-Reduction Plan
The NFL's team owners reportedly decided at the annual league meeting last week in Palm Beach, Fla., to suspend the league's plan to reduce its debt limit by 20 percent per franchise. The Sports Business Journal reported that the owners agreed to give the players' union 45 days notice...
By Mark Maske | April 7, 2008; 02:42 PM ET | Email a Comment
Playoff Reseeding Issue Might Be Revisited In Future
There weren't very many supporters for the proposal made by the competition committee at this week's league meeting in Palm Beach, Fla., to revise the formula for seeding playoff teams. The proposal didn't even make it to a formal vote of the owners when it became clear that the...
By Mark Maske | April 4, 2008; 09:59 AM ET | Comments (1)
Obscure Rule Changes
During a game this past season in Philadelphia between the Eagles and Chicago Bears, an odd play happened. With the Bears on offense, a snap with the quarterback directly under center went straight through the quarterback's legs untouched. The Eagles recovered the loose ball and made a lengthy return...
By Mark Maske | April 3, 2008; 10:48 AM ET | Comments (2)
Cowboys Balking at Titans' Asking Price for Suspended Cornerback
Dallas Cowboys Coach Wade Phillips declined to comment during the league meeting this week in Palm Beach, Fla., about his team's trade discussions with the Tennessee Titans regarding suspended cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones. According to a source familiar with the discussions, the Titans are asking for two draft choices...
By Mark Maske | April 3, 2008; 10:17 AM ET | Email a Comment
Owners Endorse Goodell's Cheating Crackdown, Reject Reseeding Proposal
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The owners passed a resolution endorsing NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's measures for cracking down on cheating within the league. The measures didn't need the owners' approval but the owners offered their support anyway. Goodell said that the measures--which include unannounced inspections by league officials of teams' locker...
By Mark Maske | April 2, 2008; 11:42 AM ET | Comments (2)
Votes on Other Proposed Rule Changes to Come Wednesday
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The annual league meeting concludes Wednesday. Before it does, the owners will vote on a series of proposed rule changes. Among them is a proposal to change the formula for seeding playoff teams. The competition committee's proposal would make wild card clubs eligible for the third through...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 07:30 PM ET | Comments (2)
Kraft, Belichick Addressed Other Owners and Coaches Behind Closed Doors Today
PALM BEACH, Fla.--New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Coach Bill Belichick addressed the league's other owners and head coaches during a meeting today. According to people familiar with the speeches, Kraft gave a heart-felt address in which he expressed regret over the videotaping scandal involving his franchise and...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 05:19 PM ET | Comments (1)
"Mutual Respect" Between Players and Officials Among Officiating Points of Emphasis for Next Season
PALM BEACH, Fla.--One of the officiating points of emphasis for next season includes an enforcement of "mutual respect" guidelines in the interaction between players and officials. The issue is being stressed after a couple high-profile on-field meltdowns by players this past season, including a verbal confrontation between Baltimore Ravens...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 02:47 PM ET | Email a Comment
Redskins Among No Votes on Coach-to-Defense Rule
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The Washington Redskins were one of the seven teams to vote against the coach-to-defense proposal that was ratified today. The other six no votes came from the Green Bay Packers, Oakland Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. All seven teams have...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 02:41 PM ET | Email a Comment
Coach-to-Defense Proposal Is Approved By Owners
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The NFL's team owners today approved a proposal to connect one defensive player per team to a coach on the sideline via a wireless communication device during games. The proposal was ratified by a vote of 25-7. It needed at least 24 votes to be enacted. It...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 12:12 PM ET | Comments (2)
Belichick Had Followup "SpyGate" Interview With League After Super Bowl
PALM BEACH, Fla.--NFL officials interviewed New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick for a second time after the Super Bowl about the "SpyGate" scandal. The interview was revealed by Belichick at the AFC coaches' media breakfast here today at the league meeting, and confirmed by NFL officials. The interview came...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 08:37 AM ET | Email a Comment
Vote on Coach-to-Defense Proposal Possible Today
PALM BEACH, Fla.--Votes on most of the proposed rule changes will take place Wednesday. But it's possible that the coach-to-defense proposal could be voted on today. That proposal would put a wireless communication device in the helmet of one defensive player per team, connecting him to a coach on...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 08:25 AM ET | Email a Comment
Opposition to Reseeding Proposal
PALM BEACH, Fla.--It seems like a long shot that the competition committee's reseeding proposal will be ratified by the owners at this league meeting. Under the proposal, wild card playoff teams would be eligible for the third through sixth postseason seeds in each conference, instead of merely the fifth...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 05:30 AM ET | Comments (1)
More Ominous Signs on Labor Front
PALM BEACH, Fla.--Roger Goodell said nothing today to debunk the notion that the owners are headed toward a labor confrontation with the players' union. The NFL commissioner stopped short of saying the owners plan to exercise a reopener clause in the labor deal by the Nov. 8 deadline. But...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 11:20 PM ET | Email a Comment
Kraft On SpyGate
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The videotaping scandal involving the New England Patriots is what prompted NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to propose measures cracking down on cheating. Yet Patriots owner Robert Kraft said today he's supportive of Goodell's proposals. "I think everything he's proposing is fine and good," Kraft said. "Everyone wants...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 07:08 PM ET | Email a Comment
No Change in Timetable for Consideration of Jones's Reinstatement
PALM BEACH, Fla.--Commissioner Roger Goodell said there's been no change in his timetable for ruling on the eligibility of suspended Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones. He will rule on Jones's possible reinstatement by training camp, Goodell said. The Dallas Cowboys and other teams have been linked to trade...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 06:59 PM ET | Email a Comment
Hair Proposal Might Be Shelved
PALM BEACH, Fla.--It's possible that the Kansas City Chiefs' proposal about players' hair length won't be voted on at this meeting and instead will be shelved until a future owners' meeting. That would allow more time for the players' union and other interested parties to weigh in on the...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 06:52 PM ET | Email a Comment
Redskins Awarded Third-Round Pick
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The Washington Redskins were awarded three additional picks in the NFL draft in April, including a third-rounder, today. The league announced the compensatory draft choices awarded based on a formula balancing players lost and added in free agency. The Redskins were awarded the highest of the compensatory...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 03:03 PM ET | Comments (2)
Goodell Says Measures In Cheating Crackdown Will Be Enacted
PALM BEACH, Fla.--Commissioner Roger Goodell said today that he will implement the measures in his proposed crackdown on cheating whether they're supported by the NFL's franchise owners or not. Goodell said the proposals have been well-received by the league's competition committee and the owners. But Goodell is empowered to...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 02:55 PM ET | Email a Comment
Bears-Colts Is Opening Sunday Night Game
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The NFL announced its slate of featured games on the opening weekend of next season. The Chicago Bears will play at Indianapolis on Sept. 7 at 8:15 p.m. on NBC in the first Sunday night game of the season. It will be the first regular season game...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 02:48 PM ET | Email a Comment
Support for Goodell's Proposals
PALM BEACH, Fla.--Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay says he supports NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's proposed crackdown on cheating. "You have to compete within the rules as vigorously as you can," Irsay said during a break in today's meeting. "You know the rules. You compete vigorously within them." Many of...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 11:28 AM ET | Email a Comment
League Meeting Under Way
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The annual league meeting is under way. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's address to the franchise owners and other representatives of the 32 teams has begun at the Breakers resort. Goodell is scheduled to participate in a news conference later today, and the focus undoubtedly will be his...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 09:15 AM ET | Email a Comment
Labor Talk
From Mark on vacation: In addition to Commissioner Roger Goodell's proposed crackdown on cheating and other prospective rule changes, the other main topic of conversation at the annual league meeting next week in Palm Beach, Fla., will be the potential labor confrontation between the franchise owners and the players'...
By Emilio Garcia-Ruiz | March 28, 2008; 11:52 AM ET | Email a Comment
Reseeding Proposal Would Affect Wild Cards
The reseeding proposal by the competition committee would enable wild card playoff qualifiers to compete for the third and fourth seeds in each conference. Currently, the four division winners in each conference get the top four seeds. The proposal would reserve the top two playoff seeds for division winners,...
By Cindy Boren | March 27, 2008; 02:13 PM ET | Comments (2)
Hair Proposal Isn't Likely to Take Root
The Kansas City Chiefs' proposal to limit the hair length of players comes without the endorsement of the competition committee, at least at this point. Under the proposal, a player's hair could not cover his name or number on his jersey. It would have to be ratified by at...
By Cindy Boren | March 27, 2008; 01:27 PM ET | Comments (4)
Rules Allow Titans to Trade Jones to Cowboys... Or Anyone Else
There are reports that the Dallas Cowboys are talking to the Tennessee Titans about a possible trade for suspended cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones. Jones also has been linked to other possible new teams, including the New England Patriots and Detroit Lions, in media speculation about prospective trades. Which leads...
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2008; 12:59 PM ET | Email a Comment
G. Dorsey Says Knee Is All Right
There continues to be speculation about the health of LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey as the draft approaches. The latest report is that Dorsey underwent an undisclosed knee surgery in recent months. Dorsey denied that, just as he denied speculation at the scouting combine that he had a stress...
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2008; 01:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Free Agency Winners and Losers
With the free agent market basically picked-over at this point, here are some quick thoughts on the league's winners and losers since Feb. 29: Winners: The Players... With next season's salary cap set at $116 million, the teams had to spend money. There is, after all, a payroll minimum...
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2008; 10:00 AM ET | Email a Comment
Mawae's Election as Union President Announced
The NFL Players Association made it official today and announced the election of Kevin Mawae as its president. The Tennessee Titans center succeeds Troy Vincent, whose term expired. Mawae is to serve a two-year term. "It is an honor to be elected president of the NFLPA by the board...
By Mark Maske | March 19, 2008; 09:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Culpepper, Leftwich Still Looking For Work
The backup quarterback slots around the league are being filled rapidly but two relatively prominent former NFL starters, Daunte Culpepper and Byron Leftwich, remain available on the free agent market. Leftwich was released by the Atlanta Falcons after the season on the heels of being released by the Jacksonville...
By Mark Maske | March 19, 2008; 10:39 AM ET | Comments (4)
K. Mawae Succeeds T. Vincent as Union President
Tennessee Titans center Kevin Mawae is the new president of the NFL Players Association, according to a union official. Mawae succeeds Troy Vincent, whose term expired. The union currently is conducting its annual meeting in Hawaii....
By Mark Maske | March 18, 2008; 10:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Union Announces End of T. Vincent's Term as President
Troy Vincent's term as president of the NFL Players Association has expired, the union announced on its Web site. It's not clear whether the former NFL defensive back will remain with the union in another capacity. He is viewed by many within the league as a possible successor to...
By Mark Maske | March 18, 2008; 04:58 PM ET | Email a Comment
League Probing Tampering Allegation Against Niners Over Bears' Briggs
NFL officials said the league conducted a hearing today regarding an allegation that the San Francisco 49ers improperly tampered with Chicago Bears linebacker Lance Briggs. The 49ers apparently could be in jeopardy of being penalized by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell if they're found to have had improper contact with...
By Mark Maske | March 17, 2008; 06:24 PM ET | Email a Comment
Vick's State Trial Postponed
Michael Vick's trial on state dogfighting charges reportedly has been postponed indefinitely. The trial, originally scheduled to begin April 2, is to be rescheduled March 25, the Associated Press reported. Vick already is serving a 23-month federal prison sentence for his role in a dogfighting operation. The Atlanta Falcons...
By Mark Maske | March 14, 2008; 01:26 PM ET | Comments (1)
No Deal Yet Between Walsh, NFL
People familiar with the discussions between the NFL and former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh say an agreement between the two sides remains close but is not completed yet. Both sides released statements Sunday evening saying they expected an agreement to be completed soon. They have been...
By Mark Maske | March 10, 2008; 06:02 PM ET | Email a Comment
Free Agency Slowing Down
The pace of free agency is slowing way, way down now. Most, if not all, of the big deals are done now, and it has reached the point at which many of the players still looking for work had better find jobs and get contracts soon or all of...
By Mark Maske | March 10, 2008; 01:36 PM ET | Email a Comment
League Close to Deal to Interview Walsh About "SpyGate"
The NFL is close to an agreement to interview former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh, possibly a key figure in the "SpyGate" investigation. Attorneys for Walsh and the league have been negotiating an agreement to indemnify Walsh against possible legal problems arising from what he might tell...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2008; 08:30 PM ET | Comments (1)
More on Goodell's Memo to the Competition Committee
Don't miss our story in today's print edition about the memo that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell sent Thursday to the league's competition committee, detailing his proposals for preserving the competitive integrity of the game and maintaining the public's confidence in the sport in the wake of the "SpyGate" scandal....
By Mark Maske | March 7, 2008; 06:00 AM ET | Comments (21)
Kearse Returns to Titans, and the Day's Other Moves
Defensive end Jevon Kearse is back with the Tennessee Titans. Kearse, cut by the Philadelphia Eagles, agreed to a deal with the Titans today. He left Tennessee as a free agent before the 2004 season to sign with the Eagles. Now he's back. In other moves: Free agent linebacker...
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2008; 09:58 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Retain J. Gaffney
Free agent wide receiver Jabar Gaffney agreed to a one-year, $2 million contract Tuesday night to remain with the New England Patriots. The Patriots are doing what they can to keep quarterback Tom Brady's receiver corps intact, losing Donte' Stallworth but re-signing Randy Moss and Gaffney to go with...
By Mark Maske | March 5, 2008; 09:53 AM ET | Email a Comment
J. Walker to Raiders, M. Booker Returning to Bears
There are some significant moves tonight involving recently released wide receivers. Javon Walker, cut by the Denver Broncos, has agreed to a huge deal with the Oakland Raiders. His six-year, $55 million contract includes $16 million in guaranteed money. Marty Booker, released by the Miami Dolphins, has agreed to...
By Mark Maske | March 4, 2008; 11:10 PM ET | Email a Comment
Another Would-Be Bengals' Trade For A Defensive Tackle Unravels
The Cincinnati Bengals are oh for two in trying to trade for defensive tackles. A near-deal with the New York Jets for Dewayne Robertson unraveled Monday when the Bengals and Robertson couldn't agree on a reworked contract. Earlier, the Bengals nearly traded for Detroit's Shaun Rogers but that deal,...
By Mark Maske | March 4, 2008; 09:59 AM ET | Email a Comment
Still-Busy Jets Add C. Pace, D. Woody
The New York Jets are on a free agent frenzy. The Jets have agreed to deals with linebacker Calvin Pace, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals, and offensive lineman Damien Woody, formerly of the Detroit Lions. Pace agreed to a six-year, $42 million contract that includes $22 million in guaranteed...
By Mark Maske | March 3, 2008; 04:27 PM ET | Comments (1)
Leftovers
Some Saturday night leftovers: The Denver Broncos, looking for a complementary receiver after releasing Javon Walker, signed wideout Keary Colbert to a three-year deal. Colbert formerly was with the Carolina Panthers. The New Orleans Saints re-signed tailback Aaron Stecker as well as wide receiver Devery Henderson, and released linebacker...
By Mark Maske | March 2, 2008; 01:30 PM ET | Comments (1)
D. Florence to Jags, Plus Other Early Afternoon Moves
Free agent cornerback Drayton Florence agreed to a contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars that includes approximately $12 million in guaranteed money. He leaves the San Diego Chargers. Florence lost his starting job with the Chargers this past season but was regarded as one of the better cornerbacks available in...
By Mark Maske | March 1, 2008; 03:56 PM ET | Email a Comment
I. Bruce Rejoins Martz With Niners
Wide receiver Isaac Bruce, cut by the St. Louis Rams, agreed to a two-year, $6 million deal with the San Francisco 49ers. He rejoins former Rams coach Mike Martz, now the offensive coordinator in San Francisco. In other late developments: The proposed trade of defensive tackle Shaun Rogers from...
By Mark Maske | February 29, 2008; 10:22 PM ET | Email a Comment
Lions Trade S. Rogers to Bengals
The Detroit Lions traded defensive tackle Shaun Rogers to the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals sent third- and fifth-round draft picks to the Lions for Rogers. The Bengals also re-signed free agent linebacker Dhani Jones. The moves keep coming: The Miami Dolphins have agreed to free agent deals with wide...
By Mark Maske | February 29, 2008; 04:12 PM ET | Comments (2)
Vikings Land M. Williams, Plus Other Developments
Safety Madieu Williams, an unrestricted free agent, agreed to a six-year, $34 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings. He leaves the Cincinnati Bengals. The Vikings also signed running back Thomas Tapeh, formerly of Philadelphia. In other deals: The Denver Broncos re-signed reserve tight end Nate Jackson. Linebacker Kawika Mitchell...
By Mark Maske | February 29, 2008; 01:32 PM ET | Email a Comment
Early Signings
Free agency is well under way and here are some early moves: The New Orleans Saints have agreements to re-sign linebacker Mark Simoneau and defensive tackle Brian Young. Center Jeff Faine, formerly of the Saints, agreed to a deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Cleveland Browns re-signed safety...
By Mark Maske | February 29, 2008; 10:02 AM ET | Email a Comment
Free Agent Checklist
The top unrestricted free agents, by position: Quarterback 1. Daunte Culpepper, Raiders 2. Byron Leftwich, cut by Falcons 3. Trent Green, cut by Dolphins 4. Todd Collins, Redskins 5. Josh McCown, Raiders 6. Billy Volek, Chargers 7. Cleo Lemon, Dolphins 8. Gus Frerotte, cut by Rams 9. Quinn Gray,...
By Mark Maske | February 28, 2008; 06:40 PM ET | Email a Comment
I. Bruce, G. Frerotte Among Late Cuts
More last-second maneuvering before free agency: The St. Louis Rams released veteran wide receiver Isaac Bruce and backup quarterback Gus Frerotte. The San Diego Chargers released fullback Lorenzo Neal, safety Marlon McCree and offensive tackle Shane Olivea. The Baltimore Ravens released center Mike Flynn. The Houston Texans re-signed wide...
By Mark Maske | February 28, 2008; 06:12 PM ET | Comments (3)
Colts Cut Two on Defense
More cuts: The Indianapolis Colts released defensive tackle Anthony McFarland and linebacker Rob Morris. The Tennessee Titans cut wide receiver David Givens. The New Orleans Saints released kicker Olindo Mare. It should be a busy day as teams made their final pre-free agency moves....
By Mark Maske | February 28, 2008; 10:10 AM ET | Comments (2)
Free Agency Opens Tonight
Free agency opens tonight just after midnight. Quickly, here are my top five unrestricted free agents: 1. Randy Moss, WR, Patriots 2. Asante Samuel, CB, Patriots 3. Lance Briggs, LB, Bears 4. Alan Faneca, G, Steelers 5. Michael Turner, RB, Chargers Most people in the league don't seem to...
By Mark Maske | February 28, 2008; 09:56 AM ET | Comments (4)
D. Carr, K. Holcomb, T. Law Among Those Released Today
Catching up on today's comings and goings: The players released included Carolina Panthers quarterback David Carr, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kelly Holcomb, Baltimore Ravens tailback Mike Anderson, Buffalo Bills running back Anthony Thomas, defensive ends Kevin Carter and Greg Spires of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Kansas City Chiefs cornerback...
By Mark Maske | February 27, 2008; 11:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
SpyGate Comes Up During Steroid Hearing
While testifying before the House subcommittee on commerce, trade and consumer protection today, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was asked about "SpyGate" by Rep. Vito J. Fossella (R-N.Y.). Because the subject of the hearing was the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports, Rep. Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.), the chairman of...
By Mark Maske | February 27, 2008; 10:00 PM ET | Comments (2)
Goodell, Upshaw Testify Before Congressional Subcommittee
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Players Association chief Gene Upshaw testified today before a congressional subcommittee examining the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports. Also testifying were the commissioners and players' union executive directors of the NBA, NHL and Major League Baseball. Former Senate majority leader George Mitchell, the...
By Mark Maske | February 27, 2008; 05:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Union Accuses Owners of Collusion
INDIANAPOLIS--The NFL Players Association filed a grievance against the league's team owners accusing them of improper collusion for reducing each franchise's debt ceiling by 20 percent. The case is to be heard by Stephen Burbank, the University of Pennsylvania law professor who serves as the NFL's special master, putting...
By Mark Maske | February 21, 2008; 05:02 PM ET | Comments (1)
Competition Committee Discussing Re-Seeding Proposal
INDIANAPOLIS--Members of the league's competition committee have begun discussions about a proposal to change the way the NFL seeds teams for the playoffs. The league is attempting to reduce the number of games at the end of the regular season that have no bearing on playoff seedings. One proposal...
By Mark Maske | February 21, 2008; 03:31 PM ET | Email a Comment
Goodell Briefs Competition Committee on SpyGate
INDIANAPOLIS--Commissioner Roger Goodell and league attorney Jeff Pash briefed members of the NFL's competition committee here today on the SpyGate investigation. Goodell and Pash explained the league's investigation of the videotaping incident involving the New England Patriots in the opening week of the just-completed season. They told committee members...
By Mark Maske | February 21, 2008; 03:09 PM ET | Email a Comment
Franchise Tag Roundup
There have been 11 players league-wide given their teams' franchise tags this offseason. One of them, Indianapolis Colts tight end Dallas Clark, already has signed a new six-year contract to replace his one-year franchise player deal. Here are the other 10 (with their positions, teams and 2008 salaries if...
By Mark Maske | February 20, 2008; 07:20 PM ET | Email a Comment
League Appeals Latest Ruling in Vick Bonus Case
The NFL appealed the latest ruling in the Michael Vick bonus money case by U.S. District Judge David Doty. Doty ruled that the Atlanta Falcons were not entitled to force Vick to return $16.22 million in bonus money in the quarterback's 10-year, $130 million contract with the team. That...
By Mark Maske | February 14, 2008; 08:27 PM ET | Email a Comment
Goodell Making Rounds on Capitol Hill, Meets With Schumer About Bills
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell met today with Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) Goodell is to participate with Schumer in an upcoming meeting with Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson about keeping the franchise in Buffalo. The league recently approved a plan for the team to play a limited number of home...
By Mark Maske | February 13, 2008; 03:47 PM ET | Comments (2)
Goodell's Meeting With Specter Scheduled for Wednesday
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is scheduled to meet Wednesday on Capitol Hill with Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.). Specter has been critical in recent weeks of Goodell's handling of the spying scandal involving the New England Patriots, and has threatened to call for hearings on the matter. Wednesday's meeting is...
By Mark Maske | February 12, 2008; 06:11 PM ET | Comments (1)
Push Coming to Amend Interviewing Rules for Assistant Coaches
There could be a push this offseason to amend the league's tampering rules when it comes to the ability of assistant coaches to interview for jobs with other teams. Currently, a team must grant a request by another club to interview an assistant for a head coaching job. However,...
By Mark Maske | February 12, 2008; 09:28 AM ET | Comments (2)
New Class of Head Coaches Lacks Star Power
The four head coaches hired by NFL teams this offseason were Tony Sparano, John Harbaugh, Mike Smith and Jim Zorn. That perhaps qualifies this year's class of new head coaches as the least celebrated in recent memory. When the just-completed season began, all were NFL assistant coaches but none...
By Mark Maske | February 11, 2008; 10:31 AM ET | Comments (1)
Franchise Tags Can Be Applied Beginning Today
Today is the first day on which an NFL team can apply its franchise player tag to one of its players eligible for unrestricted free agency. The period lasts from Feb. 7-21. Most clubs likely will wait until much closer to the deadline to take such an action, however....
By Mark Maske | February 7, 2008; 08:38 AM ET | Comments (103)
Judge's Ruling Does Allow Falcons to Try to Get Back $3.75 Million From Vick
The ruling Monday by U.S. District Judge David S. Doty in the Michael Vick contract case does allow the Atlanta Falcons to try to force Vick to return $3.75 million in bonus money. The Falcons had been seeking to force Vick, their quarterback who's serving a 23-month federal prison...
By Mark Maske | February 5, 2008; 02:45 PM ET | Email a Comment
Former Patriots Video Assistant Now Is Central Figure In "SpyGate" Investigation
PHOENIX--Members of the NFL's security department are attempting to arrange a meeting with former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh, who has hinted to several news organizations that he has information pertinent to the "SpyGate" case. Walsh now lives in Hawaii but it's unclear if NFL Commissioner Roger...
By Mark Maske | February 4, 2008; 08:00 PM ET | Comments (2)
Falcons Express Disappointment With Ruling in Vick Case
PHOENIX--The Atlanta Falcons issued a statement expressing disappointment with U.S. District Judge David S. Doty's decision today in the Michael Vick case. "While we are disappointed by Judge Doty's decision, this ruling does not affect our salary cap management for the 2008 season," team president Rich McKay said in...
By Mark Maske | February 4, 2008; 05:57 PM ET | Email a Comment
Falcons Not Entitled to Vick's Bonus Money, Federal Judge Rules
PHOENIX--A federal judge ruled today that the Atlanta Falcons are not entitled to recoup nearly $20 million in bonus money from suspended quarterback Michael Vick. U.S. District Judge David S. Doty overturned an earlier ruling that the Falcons were entitled to pursue the money through arbitration. The Falcons had...
By Mark Maske | February 4, 2008; 12:27 PM ET | Email a Comment
Roof Closed
GLENDALE, Ariz.--With rain in the forecast, officials closed the roof at the University of Phoenix Stadium long before kickoff. That ensures there won't be a repeat of last year's rainy Super Bowl in Miami in which the Indianapolis Colts beat the Chicago Bears....
By Mark Maske | February 3, 2008; 04:55 PM ET | Comments (142)
Seeding System for Playoffs Could Change
PHOENIX--The NFL will explore the possibility of using a different formula to seed teams for the playoffs to try to eliminate meaningless games at the end of the regular season, Commissioner Roger Goodell said today. Goodell was asked during his news conference about teams resting key players in games...
By Mark Maske | February 1, 2008; 05:03 PM ET | Comments (2)
Goodell Defends Decision to Destroy SpyGate Tapes
PHOENIX--NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell today defended his decision to have the league destroy six videotapes handed over by the New England Patriots after the team's spying scandal in September. "I think it was the appropriate thing to do," Goodell said at the commissioner's annual state of the league news...
By Mark Maske | February 1, 2008; 04:54 PM ET |