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Last Updated: Fri Feb 3, 2012, 7:04 PM

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-- Agent: No Timetable on Peyton Manning's Return to Action --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's John Clayton reports QB Peyton Manning's agent said Friday his client will play again, but he couldn't give a timetable of when he will be at full strength throwing the football. "He's doing great," Tom Condon said. "Rehab is doing fine. He's relentless with his work ethic as you would expect. As he gets stronger and you get farther away from the injury, it's not much different than an ACL except that it's a different body part. It takes a good deal of time. How long? I don't have any idea. I don't know if there is any way to quantify that or measure it. I do know he's much farther along than he was after the surgery."

-- Irsay: Manning not Cleared to Play --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsaysaid via Twitter that QB Peyton Manning (neck surgery) has not passed the team's physical nor has he been cleared to play for the Colts.

-- Preliminary Top 12 Fantasy Player Rankings for 2012 (PPR & Non-PPR) --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

2012 Premium package subscribers take note. Looking for a head start on the 2012 fantasy season? FFMastermind.com's Michael Nazarek offers his Preliminary Top 12 Fantasy Player Rankings for 2011 (both PPR & Non-PPR leagues) for your viewing pleasure. Nazarek gives you solid analysis for each player ranked. Log into your premium account and Enjoy.

-- Sources: Peyton Manning Medically Cleared to Play --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning has been medically cleared by two doctors, including Dr. Robert Watkins, who performed the most recent surgery on the Indianapolis Colts quarterback's neck, to resume his NFL career, sources said. The sources said Watkins examined Manning recently in Los Angeles and concluded the stability in his neck would have allowed the quarterback to play this Sunday if the nerves in his arm had regenerated to a satisfactory performance level. Watson also instructed the quarterback to continue an aggressive rehabilitation path that provides an optimistic outlook for Manning to play in 2012. Watkins performed Manning's spinal fusion on Sept. 8, and on Dec. 1 declared that the fusion had achieved "firm fixation." Watkins, according to the sources, joined Colts neurosurgeon Dr. Hank Feuer in clearing Manning to play. One source said that Feuer recently told Manning, "If you were my own son, I'd tell (you) to go play." In addition to Manning's optimistic words expressed in an interview with ESPN on Tuesday, in which he indicated he plans to resume his playing career, the medical clearance by his two doctors, the sources said, will bolster his determination to play in 2012. What remains in question is the timeline in which Manning's nerve regeneration to his triceps will improve to the point where he is throwing passes in the manner that helped him win four MVP awards during his 13-year career. According to one source familiar with Manning's medical review, "It's not a safety issue; it's a performance issue." This source added that Manning is "making progress." The source said Manning had a throwing session Tuesday with two of his Colts receivers -- WR Anthony Gonzalez and WR Blair White -- at an undisclosed location and that Manning has spent numerous recent days throwing to at least one wide receiver, aiming to regain as much strength as possible in his arm. However, the source said Manning still cannot pinpoint a date when his performance will reach an acceptable level to him. The source alluded that it might take to the one-year anniversary of Manning's May 23rd, 2011 surgery on a bulging disk in his neck.

-- Irsay: Peyton Manning Decision Not Coming Until Late Feb or Early March --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Newsday.com reports Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay said he doesn't expect a decision on QB Peyton Manning (neck surgery) to be made until later this month or early March. ESPN adds Irsay said Wednesday that he expects to meet with Manning next week.

-- 2012 NFL Draft Central Debuts! --
Mon Jan 23, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Our 2012 NFL Draft Central feature has debuted! This feature contains links to all our 2012 NFL Rookie Draft coverage. We begin the 2012 off-season with the first round order of the upcoming 2012 NFL Rookie Draft in April and a list of all Early Entrants who have declared their Eligibility for the NFL draft. Other free and premium items will be released in the coming days and weeks, such as Team (Rookie) Needs and the first cut of our 2012 Mock Rookie NFL Draft. Be sure to check out 2012 NFL Draft Central today!

-- 2012 Coaching/Player Moves Feature Debuts! --
Fri Jan 20, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Once again in 2012, FFMastermind.com is tracking all important coaching and player moves throughout the NFL in our annual Coaching/Player Moves feature for your viewing pleasure. This feature will be updated daily as key coaches and players re-sign, sign, resign, or are fired. Enjoy!

-- Team FFMastermind.com Wins Record 3rd FanEx Title! --
Mon Dec 26, 2011 --from FFMastermind.com

Team FFMastermind.com led by Michael Nazarek and Chris Rito won their record 3rd Fantasy Championship in one of the oldest fantasy football experts leagues in the country, FanEx. You can CLICK HERE to check out the final score! That makes THREE titles in the last eight years along with two runner-up finishes! And that also makes it EIGHT STRAIGHT YEARS FFMastermind.con has won at least one Experts league title!

Last Updated: Fri Feb 3, 2012, 7:04 PM

-- Mike Mularkey's Son Arrested --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports Chapel Hill police say the son of new Jacksonville Jaguars HC Mike Mularkey is among three former North Carolina athletes arrested on cocaine possession charges. Police say Shane Michael Mularkey was among the three arrested. The 21-year-old Mularkey played in all 13 games for the Tar Heels in 2009, but school spokesman Kevin Best said he left the team after the 2010 season. A Jaguars spokesman says the team is aware of the arrest, adding that it is a personal matter and that HC Mike Mularkey has no comment at this time.

-- Jermichael Finley Contract Watch --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports TE Jermichael Finley is a free agent this off-season and there hasn't been any movement on a new contract. "Hey, it's the NFL," Finley said. "With business right now, I don't even know what's going on. ...You just have to play that (waiting) game. It's the Green Bay way. "I don't know anything. I'll just hope for the best." If Finley does receive the franchise tag from the Packers, it's expected that he will seek to be classified as a wide receiver. An arbitrator would make that final call. The franchise tag number for wideouts will likely be around $9 million.

-- Bills; Rian Lindell Agree to Contract --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

WGR reports according to a league source, the Buffalo Bills and PK Rian Lindell have agreed on a contract that will keep him in Buffalo. Lindell was set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 13, but the two sides have hammered out an agreement.

-- Raiders Name Seven --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Oakland Raiders official website reports the Raiders have added seven coaches to the 2012 coaching staff, including three assistants who were with the Silver and Black last season. Kelly Skipper returns for his sixth season with the Raiders and his fourth as running backs coach, while Frank Pollack joins the Silver and Black as offensive line coach. Steve Wisniewski will serve as assistant offensive line coach after spending last season in the same capacity, while Al Miller joins the staff as strength and conditioning coach and will be assisted by John Grieco. Defensive quality control coach Eric Sanders returns to the Raiders for his third season, while former Raiders FB Justin Griffith assumes offensive quality control duties.

-- Patriots Friday Injury Update - Gronk & Welker Questionable; Branch Probable --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the New England Patriots have practiced so much since the AFC title game, they won’t even do a walk-through on Saturday. Their walk-through was done Friday, and TE Rob Gronkowski (ankle) participated in the light session as expected. He’s officially listed as questionable and HC Bill Belichick said there were “no setbacks” to his ankle this week. The Patriots list 11 players as questionable, including Gronkowski and OT Sebastian Vollmer (back/illness.) All the Patriots players are expected to be available for the game. Other questionable players include: OL Marcus Cannon (ankle), S Patrick Chung (knee), LB Dane Fletcher (thumb), DL Kyle Love (ankle), OG Logan Mankins (knee), LB Rob Ninkovich (hip), LB Brandon Spikes (knee), WR Wes Welker (knee) and LB Tracy White (abdomen). In addition, WR Deion Branch (knee), OG Dan Connolly (groin), S James Ihedigbo (shoulder), OT Matt Light (flu), and WR Matthew Slater (shoulder) are probable to play on Sunday.

-- Giants Friday Injury Update - Bradshaw & Nick Probable --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports New York Giants rookie S Tyler Sash (foot) was added to the injury report Friday. He was limited at practice. RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) did not practice, while DE Osi Umenyiora (ankle/knee) was limited. WR Hakeem Nicks (shoulder), CB Corey Webster (hamstring) and LB Jacquian Williams (foot) all fully participated. The following players are listed as probable for Sunday’s game: S Tyler Sash (foot), RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot), DE Osi Umenyiora (ankle/knee), WR Hakeem Nicks (shoulder), CB Corey Webster (hamstring) and LB Jacquian Williams (foot). Bradshaw is “a little sore” after practicing twice in two days before resting Friday, but he’s “OK,” HC Tom Coughlin said. “He got in two good days of work prior to this,” Coughlin said. “He’s prepared.” Bradshaw usually waits until Fridays to practice.

-- Sign Up for Free Fantasy Newsletters! --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Wondering what information we pack into our free e-mail fantasy newsletters each month? How about the latest NFL news? Or maybe the latest upgrades to our site? Previews of coming attractions? Links to the hottest pages at FFMastermind.com? Special offers made exclusively to free mailer recipients? Yes, to all of the above and occasional FREE SNEAK PEEKS into a portion of our premium services too! What are they? Only those who have signed up to receive the newsletter know and we're not telling! Just click HERE, submit the form with your e-mail address, and we'll send you exactly what we send them! You'll get your FREE SNEAK PEEKS, but most importantly, you'll be kept well informed by the Definitive Fantasy Football Information Service all year round! What more can you ask?

-- Sanchez & Holmes Trying to Repair Relationship --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York Jets QB Mark Sanchez and WR Santonio Holmes have talked by phone in an attempt to repair their relationship, and they're planning to meet soon for a kind of quarterback-wide receiver retreat. HC Rex Ryan said that Sanchez and Holmes have discussed the possibility of taking an entire weekend to hash out their differences -- a couple's getaway, NFL style. "I'm not sure if they're going to or not, but that's something they mentioned," Ryan said before a promotional appearance at Super Bowl XLVI. "I'm not sure where it would be or anything like that. I know they had mentioned that to me." Ryan said he has spoken individually to Sanchez and Holmes, whose year-long rift became public at the end of the season. Asked if he planted the seed for the get-together, Ryan smiled and said, "I'm not going to take credit for that."

-- Raiders Name Steve Hoffman --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports the Oakland Raiders have named Steve Hoffman their new Special Teams Coordinator.

-- Broncos Name Mike Sullivan --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports the Denver Broncos have hired Mike Sullivan as their new director of football administration. He has a quarter century of experience in negotiating contracts for players.

-- Joe & Amy Senser Wrongful Death Suit Resumes --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports a wrongful death lawsuit against former Minnesota Vikings TE Joe Senser and his wife, Amy, has resumed after a four-month break. An attorney for the family of hit-and-run victim Anousone Phanthavong met with the Sensers and their attorney Friday to discuss evidence-gathering issues. The Star Tribune reports results of the discussion are confidential. A judge placed the civil case on hold in October. He ordered that neither side gather evidence while the criminal investigation continued. Amy Senser is scheduled to stand trial April 23 on two counts of criminal vehicle homicide. She's charged with striking Phanthavong on a Minneapolis interstate ramp and leaving the scene in August. Defense attorney Eric Nelson contends Senser did not know she struck someone that night. He wants the case dismissed.

-- More Notes on Goodell's Speach --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports NFL commissioner Roger Goodell indicated the league is open to playing another outdoor cold weather Super Bowl if the game in New York goes well. They will only consider it after the 2014 Super Bowl occurs. He also indicated Indianapolis will be a candidate for future games. While Goodell says he believes Miami will get Super Bowls in the future, he essentially pressured them to make stadium renovations first because of greater competition. The league will discuss adding independent neurologists to the sideline for next season to handle diagnosing concussions. Goodell, like Rams owner Stan Kroenke, was very vague about the future of football in St. Louis. The league wants to have another regular season game in Mexico.

-- NFL May Expand Reply Rules Again --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports for the second consecutive offseason, the NFL may be ready to expand its use of instant replay. Last offseason, the NFL changed the rules so that all scoring plays were automatically reviewed by the replay assistant, who then paged the referee and told him to halt the game and review the play if the ruling was close enough. This offseason, the NFL may change the rules again so that not only scoring plays but also plays in the end zone that aren’t ruled a touchdown or safety on the field get reviewed. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said that the league’s Competition Committee will review the matter this offseason. “Whether you scored or you didn’t score, should we review that automatically?” Goodell said. Goodell noted that there were some key plays during the 2011 season on which a player was ruled not to have scored on the field, and that when replays appeared to indicate that he had scored, that player’s team couldn’t challenge because it had already used its challenges.

-- Dolphins Set to Pursue Peyton Manning If... --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Miami Herald reports the Dolphins surely do have a confidence about their ability to land QB Peyton Manning if and when he's available. Why? Well, several NFL and Dolphins sources Thursday evening said the Dolphins definitely will be making the play for Manning. Secondly, Manning is something of a South Florida fan. A club source said Thursday evening that Manning has indicated several times during his career an affinity for the region and most recently put his money where his mouth his in that he and his wife bought a condo on South Beach. The name of the condo is Continuum. "His wife is also a big fan of the area," the source told me. "He likes the area. He likes the vibe of the area more than you might think. They own a condo down here. And no other team that could be trying to sign him will be able to say that."

-- Going Against the Grain to Win $100,000! --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Sometimes Going Against the Grain can lead to huge rewards. That's just what David Gerczak learned when he listened to FFMastermind.com's Premium Fantasy Rankings late last year and it won him $100,000! Read what David has to say about his investment in our services by clicking HERE! Remember our motto, There are No Bragging Rights (or $100K prize) for Finishing Second!

-- Jamaal Charles Rehab Watch --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Kansas City Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles (torn ACL) tweeted Thursday he's finally back in cleats for the first time since his early season-ending knee injury.

-- Bill Belichick Not Thinking About Retirement --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Patriots HC Bill Belichick will turn 60 in two months and is completing his 12th season as coach of the Patriots, and with the chance to tie former Steelers HC Chuck Noll’s NFL record by winning his fourth Super Bowl on Sunday, I asked Belichick at his press conference today whether winning the title might be an occasion to ride off into the sunset. But Belichick said he’s not thinking about that. “Right now, I’m really thinking about, ‘What’s the best thing I can do to help our football team on Sunday against the Giants?’ I want to really try to do a good job in the job that I have,” Belichick said. Beyond just Sunday’s game, however, Belichick doesn’t sound like he’s in any hurry to quit coaching, because he’s enjoying what he’s doing too much to stop.

-- Goodell Speaks on Expansion & L.A. --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell commented today during his state of the NFL address after a question about Los Angeles and possible expansion. “We haven’t talked about expansion at all,” Goodell said. “I don’t see that in foreseeable future.” Asked about moving a team to Los Angeles, Goodell repeated his usual line that “We want to keep teams where they are.” Of course, if there is no expansion and no teams moving, then there won’t be a team in Los Angeles. But Goodell wants a team in Los Angeles. He talked about the ten-year CBA and re-signed television contracts as providing a “foundation” to come up with solutions for a team in L.A. He said the league has a ten-year runway to make a deal. Goodell tried to back off his comments on Costas Live Thursday. He said Thursday night that expanding by one team would never be an option. If the league ever expands, it will be by two teams.

-- Goodell: Thursday Night Games Nearly Every Week in 2012 --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell revealed today that the number of regular-season games televised by NFL Network is about to increase. Goodell said NFL Network will expand to 13 Thursday night games for the 2012 season, and he added that with the increased number of prime time games, all 32 NFL teams will be guaranteed at least one prime time game over the course of the 2012 season. Between the NFL Network Thursday night offerings and NBC having Thursday night games for Week 1 and Thanksgiving, fans should be ready for Thursday Night Football to become a regular part of their lives, just as fans have grown accustomed to football all day Sunday and again on Monday night. “We’re going to be playing Thursday night games from Week 2 to Week 15,” Goodell said.

-- No Setbacks for Rob Gronkowski --
Fri Feb 3, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New England Patriots HC Bill Belichick said Friday morning that injured TE Rob Gronkowski (ankle) responded well to his first practice since suffering a left high ankle sprain in the AFC Championship Game. "I think he's OK this morning. I think he's OK. I don't think we had any setbacks," he said. Belichick added that Gronkowski, who was a limited participant in Thursday's practice, has gotten better on a daily basis. Multiple sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter that Gronkowski would play in Super Bowl XLVI against the New York Giants barring any setbacks. "I think he's coming along. We'll have to see where he gets to, but it's certainly moving in the right direction," Belichick said. Belichick would not elaborate on exactly what Gronkowski did at Thursday's practice. "He practiced on a limited basis and did some of the things that we did in practice," Belichick said. There was a long pause before he continued, joking, "Was that the elaboration you were looking for?"

-- Patriots Thursday Injury Update - Gonk & Welker Limited --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (ankle) practiced Thursday. It was his first practice since he injured his left ankle in the AFC Championship Game. Gronkowski was held to a limited role Thursday but did take part. Avoiding a two-week break from taking the field was a priority for him. “It's definitely huge, significant,” he said. “Obviously I want to get out there, I want to get some practice in before the Super Bowl." OL Marcus Cannon (ankle), S Patrick Chung (knee), LB Dane Fletcher (thumb), DL Kyle Love (ankle), OG Logan Mankins (knee), LB Rob Ninkovich (hip), LB Brandon Spikes (knee), OL Sebastian Vollmer (illness/foot), WR Wes Welker (knee) and LB Tracy White (abdomen) were also limited.

-- Packers Promote Tom Clements --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports the Green Bay Packers didn't have to look far to find their new offensive coordinator, promoting quarterbacks coach Tom Clements to replace former OC Joe Philbin. Clements has coached the Packers' quarterbacks since 2006, HC Mike McCarthy's first year in Green Bay. Philbin left to become the Miami Dolphins' head coach last month.

-- John Haskell Wins 2010 FFPC $100K Fantasy Championship --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com would like to congratulate premium subscriber John Haskell on winning the 2010 FFPC High Stakes Fantasy Football Championship and the $100,000 that goes along with it. Eagles QB Michael Vick and Vikings RB Adrian Peterson sealed the deal for John on Tuesday night in week #16!

-- Giants Thursday Injury Update - Bradshaw Limited; Nicks Practices --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) went through a limited practice for a rare second consecutive day to highlight the New York Giants' second practice at the University of Indianapolis. The Giants are getting healthier as the week progresses as WR Hakeem Nicks (shoulder), CB Corey Webster (hamstring) and LB Jacquian Williams (foot) participated in a full practice on Thursday. Bradshaw and DE Osi Umenyiora (ankle/knee) were the only Giants who were limited in practice. "We did fine," HC Tom Coughlin told the pool reporter Thursday. "The energy level, the enthusiasm, the excitement is all there, as it should be, as it was yesterday. They're really excited to practice for the game. I think they've done very well. This was a good day of preparation." According to the pool report, Bradshaw tripped on one snap in practice as he ran through the offensive line but was fine afterward.

-- Hines Ward Planning to Play in 2012, But... --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Pittsburgh Steelers will have to make a decision on WR Hines Ward's future with the team by the start of next month when he is due a roster bonus. But, in Ward's mind, he isn't going anywhere. "I plan on playing with the Pittsburgh Steelers and going from there," Ward said at the Super Bowl media center Thursday.

-- Rams to Name Brandon Fisher --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Detroit Free Press reports Lions defensive assistant Brandon Fisher is going to the St. Louis Rams to work with his father, Jeff, who was hired last month, a team source said. It’s unknown what position Fisher will take with the Rams.

-- Drew Brees Expects New Deal to be Done Within 4-5 Weeks --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports contract discussions between the New Orleans Saints and QB Drew Brees are underway. It sounds like they are going well. “There is no doubt in my mind” a contract will get finalized, Brees said on the Dan Patrick Show Thursday. “It’s pretty straight up and should be done here in the next 4-5 weeks.”

-- Ahmad Bradshaw Practice Plan --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports New York Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) said he practiced Wednesday -- two days ahead of schedule -- to get his "legs up under" him because he's "been stuck in this hotel for a couple of days." Bradshaw said he will practice again Thursday and rest on Friday. He usually just practices on Fridays. “I had no setbacks,” he added about practicing on Wednesday. “I’m not going to have any setbacks now.” For Bradshaw, the biggest advantage for practicing Thursday as opposed to waiting for Friday is that he gets to do the Giants' third-down drills. "I want to get a read for their third-down blitzes," Bradshaw said of the Patriots' defense.

-- Mark Ingram Rehab Watch --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports New Orleans Saints RB Mark Ingram (toe) said via Twitter that Thursday will be the last day he has to walk on crutches after undergoing season-ending toe surgery the week of the Lions playoff game in early January. HC Sean Payton said during his season-ending press conference that Ingram’s injury shouldn’t prevent him from playing next season.

-- Colts Name Greg Manusky --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Fox Sports reports the Indianapolis Colts have named Greg Manusky their new Defensive Coordinator.

-- A Magic Act in 2010 --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com Super Bowl premium package subscriber Barry P. shares his thoughts on why our premium services are a real Magic Act. Patrons eyeing a subscription should check out what Barry has to say!

-- Former Players Depict NFL as Apathetic to Concussions --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports in interviews conducted over the past two months with a dozen plaintiffs in concussion-related lawsuits, what emerged was, at best, a depiction of a culture of indifference on the part of the league and its teams toward concussions and other injuries. At worst, there was a strong sense of a willful disregard for players' well-being. "It's not about whether players understood you could get a concussion playing football. It's about the negligence of care, post-concussion, that occurred," says former OT Kyle Turley, an offensive lineman for the Saints, Rams and Chiefs who was the No. 7 overall pick in the 1998 draft and an All-Pro in 2000. Players complain that they carried owners to their profits, in an industry that now has more than $9 billion in annual revenues, without the safety nets of guaranteed contracts or lifetime medical insurance. "Yeah, I understand you paid me to do this, but still yet, I put my life on the line for you, I put my health on the line," Hall of Fame running back Tony Dorsett says. "And yet when the time comes, you turn your back on me? That's not right. That's not the American way."

-- A.P. Not Changing Number --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Minnesota Vikings RB Adrian Peterson (torn ACL/MCL) shared via his Twitter account Wednesday that he was thinking of changing from the No. 28 to No. 23 but that it would cost him $1 million to make the switch. "So here is the deal with the number change! So I received a call and I was informed that I would've to buy all jerseys that's been produced & Thus far! N the total amount that I would have to pay blew my mind!!!!!," he wrote. He continued his rant to his followers, explaining his frustration. "Why? Ok so I see maybe ten thousand dollars of my total jersey sales! That's it!!! In I know I've mostly likely been in the top ten & When it comes to top sales ! Why in the hell do I have to pay a Million dollars to change my number! I don't even get paid a million & Dollars by my sponsors a year! Wow!!! & N I'm talking about my nike deal!," he wrote.

-- Rob Gronkowski & Trainers to Decide If He'll Play Sunday --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (ankle) said Thursday that the final decision on whether he plays in Super Bowl XLVI will come as a result of collaboration between him and the team's athletic training staff. "It's my body and I know how I feel the best," Gronkowski said. "I just communicate with the trainers on how I feel, what they think, and we just put all our knowledge together so we can get the best possible situation." Gronkowski added that he wouldn't play if he felt it wasn't the right thing to do. "I will make the final call. I listen to the trainer's advice, but it's how I feel," he said. "I'm just trying to get better. The trainer has helped me to get to a place where I need to be."

-- Sam Hurd's Trial Set for April 2nd --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports a federal judge has set an April 2nd trial date for former Bears WR Sam Hurd, who is charged with trying to create a drug-distribution network.

-- Ravens Name Don Martindale --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports the Baltimore Ravens have signed former Denver Broncos DC Don Martindale to be their linebackers coach.

-- Channing Crowder Planning His Return, But... --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports despite receiving interest from multiple teams, former Miami Dolphins LB Channing Crowder sat out the 2011 season to let his body heal up. Appearing on Super Bowl’s Radio Row on Wednesday, the 28-year-old Crowder announced that he will make a comeback attempt. But it definitely won’t be with his former team. “I wouldn’t go on a team with Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland,” said Crowder. “I’m not very confident in him. He doesn’t know what he’s doing in my opinion. He’s real disrespectful. He doesn’t know how to deal with people.” The more he spoke, the more Crowder seemed to get into blasting Ireland. “He’s not a good person,” Crowder said. “He has no class and I wouldn’t choose to go back and play there. And I would have to say it’s the only team I don’t want to play for.”

-- Colts Name Three --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Fox Sports reports the Indianapolis Colts have named Marwan Maalouf as special teams coordinator, Roy Anderson as safeties coach, and Alfredo Roberts to coach tight ends.

-- Sign Up for Free Fantasy Newsletters! --
Thu Feb 2, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Donovan McNabb Watch --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports QB Donovan McNabb says his future is bright. Part of that future could include a return to the NFL next season. McNabb, who was released by the Vikings midway through his 13th season, didn’t sound like a player who has completely walked away during an interview with “Super Bowl Live” on Wednesday. The phone hasn’t rang for McNabb, but he believes he has something left to offer in the right situation. “I see three teams in the NFL, right now, that I feel like I can add a little bit of flavor to it from what they have,” McNabb said. “I won’t mention those teams. But, if the phone rings, there will be a lot of decisions to make on that.” Maybe those calls will come for McNabb, who listed his leadership, experience, work ethic and ability “to bring the team together” as what he could offer a new team. The three teams McNabb has in mind, though, are anyone’s guess. Only a handful of teams — the Dolphins, Browns, Redskins, Cardinals, 49ers, Seahawks — haven’t committed to a starter next season. But that quarterback landscape can, and will, change.

-- Giants Wendesday Injury Update - Bradshaw & Nicks Limited --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) practiced on a limited basis Wednesday and according to the pool report ran well in New York's first Super Bowl practice since landing in Indianapolis. Bradshaw, who has a broken bone in his right foot, was a surprise participant. HC Tom Coughlin had said earlier in the day Bradshaw would not practice. Bradshaw's routine typically is to skip the first two days of practice before going through the third practice to rest his foot. But after having so many days off between the NFC Championship Game and the Super Bowl, Bradshaw, who practiced last Friday, did some work. Coughlin said Bradshaw told trainer Ronnie Barnes he "wants to be a part of this" and wanted to be out at the first practice. "I just hope he's OK tomorrow," said Coughlin. WR Hakeem Nicks (shoulder), LB Jacquian Williams (foot), CB Corey Webster (hamstring) and DE Osi Umenyiora (ankle/knee) were also all limited in practice as expected. All are expected to play against New England on Sunday.

-- Patriots Wednesday Injury Update - Gronk Sits; Welker Limited --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (ankle) was the only Patriots players who didn't practice Wednesday. Ten other Patriots were limited: OL Marcus Cannon (ankle), S Patrick Chung (knee), LB Dane Fletcher (thumb), DL Kyle Love (ankle), OG Logan Mankins (knee), LB Rob Ninkovich (hip), LB Brandon Spikes (knee), OL Sebastian Vollmer (illness/foot), WR Wes Welker (knee) and LB Tracy White (abdomen).

-- Bill Muir Retiring --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Kansas City Star reports Bill Muir, last year's offensive coordinator for the Chiefs, has told the team he's retiring.

-- Schefter: Cardinals Expected to Pursue Peyton Manning If... --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Arizona Sports reports QB Peyton Manning (neck surgery), who is expected to be released by the Indianapolis Colts in the near future, is recovering from multiple neck surgeries. Should he be able to play next season, the Cardinals figure to be interested in the player. "Arizona is expected to be in on Peyton Manning," ESPN's Adam Schefter said today. "They have done due diligence."

-- Gerald McCoy Rehab Update --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The St. Pertersburg Times reports Buccaneers DT Gerald McCoy says he hasn't met new HC Greg Schiano, but he says there is already a buzz among the players. "Everyone's excited," McCoy said. "Everyone is like, 'I don't know what to expect,' but everyone's excited." McCoy said his rehab is going well from his arm injury. "When everything starts back up on April 23, I'll be the first one in the building ready to roll."

-- Kenny Britt Pleads Guilty to Downgraded Charge --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports Tennessee Titans WR Kenny Britt has pleaded guilty to a downgraded charge stemming from an arrest in New Jersey. Britt entered the plea in Hoboken Municipal Court to a charge of disturbing the peace and paid a $1,500 fine. Britt faced several charges in the June arrest at a car wash, where police said they suspected him of carrying a marijuana cigar. Police claimed Britt crushed the cigar and disposed of it. It was not found. The remaining charges were dismissed Tuesday.

-- Going Against the Grain to Win $100,000! --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Dolphins QB Update --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Miami Herald reports a Dolphins source says Miami would pursue QB Peyton Manning (neck surgery) if and only if he is verified as 100 percent healthy, but that is seen as a possibility shrinking by degrees in the rear-view mirror. Which means it is more likely the team will end up targeting QB Matt Flynn.

-- Peyton Manning Decision Coming Soon --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning (neck surgery) expects to sit down and talk with Colts owner Jim Irsay soon to discuss his future with the team. "It’s been tough to do it this [Super Bowl] week. We will [meet] at the appropriate time," Manning said. "And when we do, I think some decisions will be made after that."

-- Giants Early Wednesday Injury Update - Bradshaw Will Sit --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports New York Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) is the only player who will not practice Wednesday, HC Tom Coughlin said. Bradshaw typically practices on Fridays only. LB Jacquian Williams (foot) will be tested, but might end up being limited. Coughlin said Williams has made "very good progress." A few other players may be limited as well.

-- Rob Gronkowski Injury Update --
Wed Feb 1, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports the daily routine of updating the status of New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski's injured ankle came from both HC Bill Belichick and the tight end Wednesday. Belichick said Gronkowski was "doing better" and "we'll see where he is today." Gronkowski was also optimistic. "Feeling way better than it did a week ago," he said. "Feeling better than it was yesterday." ESPN adds Gronkowski said the team will look into the possibility of a specialized cleat for his left foot. Sometimes teams are able to make a shoe that protects the ankle in the event of swelling during the game. "I think we're going over that tonight, so we will see with the training staff," Gronkowski said.

-- Giants Tuesday Injury Update --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York Giants LB Jacquian Williams has shed the protective boot he had on his sprained foot and the rookie expects to participate in practice, perhaps on a limited basis on Wednesday. “It’s better,” Williams said. “It is a day-to-day thing. But I will be there [on Sunday in Super Bowl XLVI].” “It was a precaution thing,” he added off the boot coming off. “I’ll practice. Whether I will be limited or not, I don’t know.” WR Hakeem Nicks (shoulder) said the AC joint in his shoulder is feeling “a lot better this week.” “I’m just trying to go out there and play and have a good week of practice,” Nicks said. “There should be no setbacks. It’s not sore or anything. The rest helped out a lot with just my shoulder and just my body in general. I wouldn’t miss [the Super Bowl] for anything.” The New York Post adds HC Tom Coughlin said TE Jake Ballard's (knee) health will be a big factor in Super Bowl XLVI. Ballard suffered a partially torn PCL in the Week 15 loss to the Redskins, missed the final two regular-season games, and has not been much of a factor in the Giants' three playoff wins, totaling three catches for 33 yards. “Huge,” Coughlin said of Ballard’s impact. “Jake’s feeling better. He’s been a big part of what we do. He received an injury, fought his way through the injury. He is maneuvering better, playing better. That being that case, Eli has a lot of confidence in Jake.”

-- Bears Won't Let Matt Forte Hit the Open Market --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports with three weeks to decide whether to apply the franchise tag on Pro Bowl RB Matt Forte, Bears CEO Ted Phillips said Tuesday that the Chicago Bears won't let the Pro Bowl running back reach free agency. "We'd like to (work out a long-term deal with Forte)," Phillips said. "But as Phil pointed out we obviously will at least consider placing the franchise tag on him. We don't have any intention of letting Matt hit the open market. We'll sit down with him privately, Phil will, and discuss what the plans are prior to the Feb. 20 franchise tag date."

-- Peyton Manning Plans to Return to Football --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports QB Peyton Manning (neck surgery) plans to return to football, but he and Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay have not discussed his future, he said in an interview with ESPN on Tuesday. Manning said that he and Irsay will discuss whether the Super Bowl-winning quarterback will remain with the Colts "at the appropriate time, and when we do, I think some decisions will be made after that. But until then I'm just continuing to rehab, work hard, and to enjoy this week because it really is a special week for the city and certainly for my family." Manning said that his recovery from spinal fusion surgery in September -- his third surgery in 19 months -- is going well despite the fact he didn't play last season. "I really feel good. I continue to make progress every day," he said. "Everything that the doctors have told me has been on point, which is encouraging to me. I just had a great day today with rehab, just got back from the facility, and that's what we continue to do. Just keep trying to get better. So far I have. That's the plan from here on out." Manning said that he'll continue to have checkups over the next several weeks, and termed his mood as "encouraging." The Colts face a March 8 deadline for a decision on Manning. They owe him a $28 million option bonus on that date. If they don't pay it, he becomes an unrestricted free agent. Asked to predict what decision will be made, Manning deferred. "I cannot predict that," he said. "I think it's well documented how I feel about this city, the fans, the Colts, Jim Irsay. It's well documented. Tough decisions have to be made. They'll be made at the appropriate time. This is just not the week to do it. It's not the week. I know people can talk about it, that's fair, that's part of the game. It doesn't mean that I have to add to that conversation, and I just don't plan to."

-- Jacobs Doesn't See Burress Returning to Jets --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York giants RB Brandon Jacobs intimated that WR Plaxico Burress was under-utilized by the Jets, also suggesting that Burress -- a free agent -- doesn't want to return because of their well-documented turmoil in the locker room. "I don't see him back with the Jets next year at all," said Jacobs, who speaks with Burress regularly. "I don't know what he's thinking, but I don't see that. They've got a lot of things going on over there, and I don't know if he wants to be part of that."

-- John Haskell Wins 2010 FFPC $100K Fantasy Championship --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Colts Name Harold Goodwin --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Indianapolis Colts have announced they have named Harold Goodwin their new Offensive Line Coach.

-- Ravens Personnel & Free Agency Watch --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Carroll County Times reports the Ravens want to sign QB Joe Flacco to a multi-year contract extension. Ravens team owner Steve Bisciotti was adamant last year that the organization wants to lock up Flacco on a long-term basis. Entering the final year of his original rookie contract, Flacco is due a $6.76 million base salary that includes him triggering a $5.4 million escalator clause. Plus, there’s a $2.1 million roster bonus. The Flacco negotiations may be complicated by a difference of opinion between how much the Ravens are willing to pay him and his financial expectations. While this shapes up as an extremely tough round of negotiations, this should ultimately get done. The Ravens are likely to make Pro Bowl RB Ray Rice their franchise player, at a cost of roughly $7.7 million. This situation may unfold the way the Ravens handled Pro Bowl DT Haloti Ngata: securing his services with the franchise tag before later signing him to a blockbuster contract. Either way, Rice will remain in place next season as the focal point of the offense. LB Ray Lewis, 36, has already declared that he has no intentions to retire, and FS Ed Reed, 33, is also expected to return for at least one more season. Based on both legendary defenders’ health and age, the Ravens will likely begin plotting contingency plans this year to eventually replace them within the next year or so. Both are under contract for 2012. Lewis is due a $4.95 million base salary and carries a salary-cap figure of $6.85 million. Although he led the Ravens’ defense in tackles last season, he missed four games with a right toe injury and was much less of a factor in pass coverage on third downs. Reed fell to three interceptions during the regular season, but played well in the playoffs despite a sprained left ankle, a nerve impingement in his neck and a shoulder problem. He’s scheduled to make $7.2 million in base salary next season and has a hefty salary-cap number of $8.5 million. Meanwhile, the Ravens have roster bonuses due in March for WR Lee Evans, OT Bryant McKinnie and SS Bernard Pollard. After an injury-plagued season where he caught only four passes, Evans is unlikely to be back at his current scheduled salary of $3.275 million, salary-cap number of $5.607 million and a $1 million roster bonus due on March 18. Unless he accepts a significant pay reduction, he won’t be back. The Ravens are generally pleased with how McKinnie and Pollard performed during their first seasons in Baltimore. Keeping McKinnie requires paying a $500,000 roster bonus on March 18. He’s also due a $3.2 million base salary with a total salary-cap figure of $4.2 million. It’s a reasonable amount for a left tackle, especially if McKinnie reports in better shape this year by paying the price in the offseason conditioning program. Pollard finished with 75 tackles, two sacks, one interception and a fumble recovery with 13 pass deflections, providing a hard-hitting presence in the secondary. He’s due a $500,000 roster bonus on March 23, and the Ravens are expected to pay it. His base salary is an affordable $1.25 million.

-- Reid: No Decision Yet Regarding Free-Agent DeSean Jackson --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles HC Andy Reid said he's non-committal either way on the future of soon-to-be free-agent WR DeSean Jackson.

-- Rob Gronkowski Sheds Protective Boot --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Boston Herald reports Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (ankle) said he took off the protective boot yesterday for good.

-- Raiders Name Greg Knapp --
Tue Jan 31, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Oakland Raiders have named Greg Knapp their new Offensive Coordinator.

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Mastermind Moment

FFMastermind.com Takes Home Another Experts League Championship!
Tuesday, January 10th, 2012
Team FFMastermind.com led by Michael Nazarek and Chris Rito won their record 3rd Fantasy Championship in one of the oldest fantasy football experts leagues in the country, FanEx.

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