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Fri May 9, 2008, 12:24 PM PT
-- Ravens Hurting at TE --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Baltimore Sun reports Ravens TE Todd Heap (hamstring) was practicing today, but TE Daniel Wilcox is still recovering from toe surgery and TE Quinn Sypniewski is out -- possibly for the season -- with the knee injury sustained a few weeks ago at an OTA. Even TE Lee Vickers, who was brought in last season when Heap and Wilcox went down, wasn't practicing today. That left the Ravens with a pair of free agent rookies, TE Joe Reitz of Western Michigan and TE Scott Kuhn of Louisville.
-- Two Ravens No-Show for Mini-Camp --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Baltimore Sun reports two members of the Ravens failed to show for the team's mandatory minicamp today -- OT Jonathan Ogden and LB Terrell Suggs. Ogden's absence was expected, but Suggs wasn't on the field because of a contract dispute. The 25-year-old Suggs, who showed up for earlier team practices to show his support for new HC John Harbaugh but couldn't practice because he hasn't signed his one-year contract, wasn't with the team when it took to the field this afternoon in the rain. The Ravens used the franchise tag on Suggs on Feb. 19, keeping him off the free-agent market with a one-year tender worth $8.065 million (the average of the five highest-paid linebackers in the NFL). But Suggs wants the one-year tag of $8.879 million for defensive ends -- $814,000 more than what linebackers receive.
-- Texans Mini-Camp Begins - Matt Schaub to Practice --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Houston Chronicle reports for the first time since the Texans closed last season with a win over Jacksonville, the players and coaches will be on the field together at a three-day minicamp that starts today at Reliant Park. HC Gary Kubiak and his assistants will have available players who are returning from last season, veterans acquired through free agency and trades in the offseason, and drafted and undrafted rookies. The only players who won't participate are DT Travis Johnson, who is getting married and those recovering from injuries. QB Matt Schaub, who underwent surgery on his left shoulder, will participate in drills. OG Charles Spencer will participate in individual drills but not team drills.
-- 2008 EarlyBird Premium Rates Deadline Looming! --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
 For the 12th consecutive year, FFMastermind.com is proud to offer special EarlyBird Discount Rates for our Premium Services. However, with the release of our 2008 April Fantasy Player Rankings, the deadline to purchase at these rates is fast approaching. How do you get access to special off-season items at earlybird rates? That's easy. Just head over to our Secure Order Form and order our 2008 Pro Bowl package or Super Bowl package and you'll be hooked up to receive access to premium information EACH MONTH for the NEXT 9 MONTHS. Fantasy football to us is a year-round job, not just a seasonal hobby. Why Fantasy Football Mastermind? Click HERE and we'll tell you why. Remember, it's never too early to get a leg up on your competition!
-- Patriots Also Stole Offensive Signals --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
ESPN's Mike Fish reports the Patriots Spygate tapes delivered via FedEx from Matt Walsh to NFL headquarters in New York on Thursday morning include evidence of an effort by New England to steal offensive signals, which would broaden the extent of the team's surveillance operation. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and staff members began viewing the eight tapes within hours of their long-awaited delivery, in anticipation of Tuesday's scheduled interview with former Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh. As part of an indemnification pact reached last month with the league, Walsh agreed to turn over any videotapes or related materials he had from his tenure with the team. Perhaps the surprise entry on the list of videotaping documents Walsh turned over to the league was tape No. 3, labeled "OFF Signals" from New England's game against the Miami Dolphins on Oct. 7, 2001. That is the only tape labeled as such on a copy of the list obtained by ESPN.com. Walsh's attorney, Michael Levy, confirmed it was the lone footage in Walsh's possession of offensive coaches' signaling from the sidelines. "We don't know [about attempts to steal offensive signals] yet because we haven't looked at the tapes," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said Thursday before the league had completed its review of the new evidence. "All we have is the list supplied last night [by Walsh's attorney]. One of them is labeled 'OFF signals.' None of the others are listed that way. Let us look at the tapes and we'll have more to say about that." Goodell is likely to quiz Walsh on these issues at their meeting scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Tuesday. Walsh is scheduled to travel to Washington later in the day to meet with Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter, the ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee.
-- Cowboys Tight Against the Cap --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Star Telegram reports the Cowboys have a rookie pool cap of $4,095,120 to sign their six draft picks, including first rounders RB Felix Jones and CB Mike Jenkins. A team's rookie pool is based on the number and position of draft picks. It must fall within the overall 2008 salary cap of $116 million. The Cowboys have a little less than $5 million in cap space available. The Cowboys placed the franchise tag on S Ken Hamlin, who counts $4.396 million against the cap. RB Marion Barber received a one-year tender of $2.56 million. New deals could lower both figures.
-- Jared Allen Could be Suspended for Eight Games If... --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Pioneer Press reports people in the know figure another misstep by new Vikings pass rusher DE Jared Allen, who has had two drunken-driving convictions, could result in a suspension of up to eight games.
-- Rams Mini-Camp Begins - Many Injured --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the full Rams squad — veterans and rookies — expected on the fields at Rams Park and continues through Sunday. "We want everybody in uniform the first day to basically try to set the tone for what we want to get done this year," HC Scott Linehan said. "It's a new team, a lot of new coaches and new players. ... Starting with everybody here, I think, is just a good way to get the point across that we've got a lot of things we want to accomplish this year." The injury list includes OL Orlando Pace (shoulder), OL Mark Setterstrom (knee), OL Richie Incognito (knee) and OL Adam Goldberg (knee); RB Travis Minor (ankle); plus defenders Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee), DE Leonard Little (toe), Tye Hill (wrist), Jerome Carter (foot) and Adam Carriker (shoulder). Carriker's injury was the latest — he suffered a torn labrum Dec. 30 at Arizona in the final game of the season. But the Rams' first-round draft pick in 2006 has made rapid progress, Linehan said. "He's probably coming along faster than anybody; I guess youth is an advantage," Linehan said. "He's worked so hard to get himself back and could probably do a lot of things (at minicamp). But it's too early to get him involved in anything other than the walk-throughs and individual work."
-- Seahawks OL Beat Up --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The News-Tribune reports Seahawks C Chris Spencer was sidelined because he had offseason thumb and shoulder surgery. Besides Spencer, OT Walter Jones (shoulder), OG Rob Sims, who had arthroscopic knee surgery on Wednesday, and OL Ray Willis (knee) sat out the majority of camp.
-- Seahawks #3 WR Battle Brewing --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The News-Tribune reports the Seahawks are trying to determine who their third receiver – behind WR Bobby Engram and WR Nate Burleson – is going to be, and who will be able to step in and perform in case of injury. The competition is between WR Courtney Taylor, WR Ben Obomanu, WR Logan Payne and WR Jordan Kent. Taylor suffering an injury that kept him out of the last two days of the camp.
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-- Chiefs PK Update --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Kansas City Star reports when PK Josh Brown instead signed with the Rams in the opening days of free agency, the Chiefs were left at kicker with journeymen PK Nick Novak and PK Billy Cundiff, an undrafted rookie in North Carolina PK Connor Barth and plenty of continuing unease over the situation. “We'll have to decide at the end of the day if one of these three guys is the guy or do we have to go out and get one of those old guys who doesn't want to come to training camp?” HC Herm Edwards said. “Hopefully we don't have to do that, but if we have to, we'll do it.” The “old guys” Edwards referred to include PK John Carney, who kicked for the Chiefs toward the end of last season, and former Colts PK Mike Vanderjagt, who worked out for them early in the spring. Both are free agents. Novak and Cundiff are already kicking during informal workouts. Barth will join them when offseason practice begins in two weeks. The Chiefs are encouraged with the early results, but there's plenty of time for that to change. “I called them both when we first signed them and told them that from the day they get here, there's going to be competition,” special-teams coach Mike Priefer said. “I think they've each had one poor day. Other than that, they've both kicked very well. We've been kicking outside most of the time. It's been cold, wet, windy. It's Kansas City. If you can kick here, you can kick anywhere.”
-- Shaun Alexander's Agent Expects to Hear from Bengals Today --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Cincinnati Enquirer reports free-agent RB Shaun Alexander has returned home to Seattle following two free-agent visits this week, first to Cincinnati on Sunday and Monday and then to New Orleans on Wednesday. Jim Steiner, Alexander's agent, said he expected to be in contact with the Bengals today. Alexander, who grew up in Florence and was the league MVP in 2005, was released April 22 after eight seasons with the Seahawks. The Bengals have a glut of running backs but are believed to be interested in Alexander as a possible backup to starter RB Rudi Johnson.
-- Drew Bledsoe Finished with Football --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Boston Globe reports former Patriots and Cowboys QB Drew Bledsoe was asked if he was close to coming back and playing in 2007. "No. There were some calls that came in, a couple of them where I took the all-important step of talking to my wife about the scenarios. I thought about it, spent some time on some of the different opportunities, and ultimately woke up the next morning and said 'I'm done, I'm ready to be done.' It's a really good feeling to know that."
-- Best Available Free Agent QBs, RBs, & WRs --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
Scout.com reports QB Daunte Culpepper and QB Byron Leftwich are the best available free agent quarterbacks. WR Eddie Kennison and WR Chris Henry are the top receivers and RB Shaun Alexander and RB Kevin Jones lead the best available running backs.
-- Titans Re-Sign Rob Bironas --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Nashville Tennessean reports Titans PK Rob Bironas has signed a one-year deal with the team worth $1.47 million. The Titans made Bironas a one-year tender offer in February, but the team remains interested in signing him to a long-term contract. Bironas was named to the Pro Bowl last season after making 35 of 39 field goal attempts. OT David Stewart is the team's only unsigned restricted free agent.
-- Ikaika Alama-Francis Bulks Up --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
Mlive reports Detroit Lions second-year DE Ikaika Alama-Francis has bulked up considerably over the last year because of his increased weight training but HC Rod Marinelli said it shouldn't affect his quickness at defensive end. "He's really not that much heavier than he was a year ago, he's just filling out -- I call it man strength. He's filling out a little bit. His quickness is really good," Marinelli said. Alama-Francis was on the inactive list for most of the season last year and then suffered a hamstring injury that slowed his development. He eventually played in the final four games of the year. "I think what hurt him was that pulled hamstring," Marinelli said. "It was in middle of the season and I thought he was making great progress in practice and it was his time and then he pulled the hammy and it slowed him down."
-- Several Eye in the Sky Scouts Wanted --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
If you are a fantasy fanatic and would like to report for your local team at FFMastermind.com, then we are interested in you! Currently, we are looking for correspondents for the following teams: New York Jets, Houston, Jacksonville, Tennessee, Kansas City, Minnesota, Carolina, & Tampa Bay. If you are interested, please click HERE to contact Mike Nazarek, and he'll fill you in on all the details. Thank you.
-- Rams Injury Update --
Fri May 9, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Rams limped to the finish last season with 12 players on injured reserve after suffering season-ending injuries. Two are no longer with the club: OLB Raonall Smith and TE Aaron Walker. The other 10 players will participate in this weekend's minicamp, although several will skip the most strenuous drills. "They'll all be back out there, but some will be limited," HC Scott Linehan said. "It's still a long way away from when we start training camp and the season." The injury list includes OLT Orlando Pace (shoulder), OG Mark Setterstrom (knee), OG Richie Incognito (knee), OG/OT Adam Goldberg (knee), RB Travis Minor (ankle), OLB Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee), DE Leonard Little (toe), CB Tye Hill (wrist), SS Jerome Carter (foot) and DT Adam Carriker (shoulder). Carriker's injury was the latest — he suffered a torn labrum Dec. 30 at Arizona in the final game of the season. But the Rams' first-round draft pick in 2006 has made rapid progress, Linehan said. "He's probably coming along faster than anybody; I guess youth is an advantage," Linehan said. "He's worked so hard to get himself back and could probably do a lot of things (at minicamp). But it's too early to get him involved in anything other than the walk-throughs and individual work."
-- Colts Deep at RB Again --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
ESPN's John Clayton reports with the signing of RB Dominic Rhodes, the Indianapolis Colts have plenty of depth in the backfield. Rhodes and RB Joseph Addai are back together again, and RB Mike Hart, the sixth-round draft choice from Michigan who has skills similar to Rhodes, is on board.
-- Dominic Rhodes Feels Good About Being a Colt Again --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
ESPN's John Clayton reports RB Dominic Rhodes felt good about accepting a minimum salary deal from Indianapolis because his former Colts teammates reached out to him. QB Peyton Manning and other former teammates kept in touch with him once he was released by the Raiders and campaigned the Colts front office to sign him. Rhodes agreed to a one-year, $645,000 deal with Indianapolis Wednesday.
-- Shaun Alexander Mulling Over Options --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
ESPN's John Clayton reports former Seahawks RB Shaun Alexander completed his visits to New Orleans and Cincinnati and is going to think over what he went through this week. No visit is scheduled with the Denver Broncos. He's going to discuss his status with his agent, Jim Steiner, over the next couple of days. It is not known if he received any offers.
-- Michael Vick Ordered to Repay $2.5 Million --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports QB Michael Vick has been ordered to pay more than $2.5 million to the Royal Bank of Canada in a court order filed Wednesday. The United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia granted a motion for summary judgment against Vick for default and breach of a promisory note from Jan. 18, 2007.
-- Sign Up for Free Fantasy Newsletters! --
Thu May 8, 2008 --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?
-- Greg Ellis: Roy Williams Says Cowboys Defensive Scheme Not a Good Fit --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Dallas Morning News reports Cowboys LB Greg Ellis made some pretty interesting statements about S Roy Williams during an appearance on Sirius NFL Radio this afternoon. Ellis said that Williams doesn't feel like he fits in HC Wade Phillips' scheme and has been isolating himself from teammates. Ellis said Williams first expressed concerns about the Phillips 3-4 during training camp in San Antonio. "He said, 'Greg, this defense does not fit me. I don't fit in well with this defense at all,'" Ellis said. "So when he told me that, I was like, 'Well, man, it's still new. Get used to it and it'll probably be fine for you.'" And obviously I think it came to be true. Just like he said, he doesn't fit what's going on here in Dallas right now. "Now maybe this year, if they decide to keep him for this season, Wade and them will kind of adjust some things to fit him better." Ellis said he thinks Williams wants to stay in Dallas, but it's just a bad football fit.
-- Bobby Engram Appears... In a Sports Coat --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Seattle Post Intelligencer reports Seahawks WR Bobby Engram was seen entering the building after practice in a sports coat, not on the practice field in a helmet. Engram skipped this camp in an attempt to get a contract extension. "I feel like I could throw to Bobby with my eyes closed," QB Matt Hasselbeck said when asked about Engram's absence. "He'll be back and he'll be the same Bobby we all know and love. … He'll be a playmaker for us this year, just like he was last year." Engram caught a franchise-record 94 passes last season. Is Hasselbeck disappointed that one of the team's leaders wasn't around this week? "In Bobby's case, not really," he said. "He's one of those guys – I almost him put in a category with Walt (Pro Bowl left tackle Walter Jones) and (guard) Chris Gray – they've been doing it for so long they know exactly what it takes for them to get ready."
-- Cedric Benson Hires New Attorney; New Witness Supports Tailback --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Chicago Tribune reports often accused of being nonchalant in Chicago, Bears RB Cedric Benson has been anything but laid-back trying to clear his name back home in Texas. Benson continued an aggressive approach to defending himself against charges of boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest by hiring a new attorney considered one of Austin's finest and most high-profile defense attorneys. Lawyer Sam Bassett already has interviewed 10 people who were on Benson's boat Saturday night when Benson was arrested on Lake Travis, outside Austin, and described, according to a Lower Colorado River Authority police report, as being cocky, combative and smelling of alcohol. Bassett has scheduled additional interviews. "I do not believe that Cedric was intoxicated when his boat was boarded by the LCRA officers for a safety inspection," Bassett said Thursday in an e-mail to the Tribune. "I also am concerned that the force used by the LCRA officers, particularly the use of pepper spray, was not necessary under the circumstances." Benson faces a May 19 court date but can be represented by Bassett. That also is the first day of organized team activities at Halas Hall, an important step for a running back coming off ankle surgery fighting for the NFL life in Chicago--even before last weekend's arrest. Another eyewitness has emerged to support Benson's claim that he was mistreated. Toby Patch was at nearby Emerald Point Marina on Saturday night when he claims he saw police "manhandling" Benson after taking the running back off the boat and heading to a squad car. Patch was not one of the 15 people on the boat. "As they were taking him up the dock, they stopped, he said, 'I am fine, I can continue walking,' and they put their legs behind his knees and knocked him over his knees and started hog-carrying him," Patch told KXAN-TV in Austin. Near the parking area, Patch says the treatment of Benson worsened. "They ended up--I don't know why--but laid him on his back, I heard him say, 'Please don't pepper spray me, please don't pepper spray me,'?" Patch said. "It was uncalled for, it was ludicrous, no point for it."
-- Lions OTA Notes - Tatum Bell Heavy --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Detroit Free Press reports a few Lions players aren't practicing because of injuries, such as WR Shaun McDonald and S Daniel Bullocks (knees). HC Rod Marinelli is not concerned. Training camp opens in late July. “Right now I don't anticipate any problem with anybody being ready to go,” Marinelli said. TE Dan Campbell (elbow) might be the exception. “He's one we're just going to have to kind of wait and see,” Marinelli said. “I want to be smart with Dan. We've just got to be smart with him. He's been rehabbing well. It's been a successful surgery. I think everybody else should be fine. I'll be careful with him, cautious.” Bullocks is progressing well and might participate a little in the mandatory minicamp May 20-22. RB Tatum Bell looks a bit heavy, but it's only May. “He might be up there a little bit more, yeah,” Marinelli said. “But like I told these guys – told them all – just make sure we're aware of where we're at. Right now, it's still the off-season. But I want to make sure we're working toward the perfect weight to enter camp. I'm aware of every guy. They're made aware of where I want them.” RB Brian Calhoun looks good after missing much of the last two seasons because of a knee injury. He fits the Lions' new zone running scheme. “This system here now is what he's used to in terms of the zone,” Marinelli said. “He's got really good vision as a zone runner. He is quick right now. He's alive. He's got really good third-down skills for us.
-- Randy Moss Causing Another Miss USA Scandal? --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports Donald Trump has another Miss USA scandal on his hands. Miss Kentucky USA 2008, Alysha Harris, whose Facebook says she's only 20, was photographed partying and bumping and grinding with New England Patriots WR Randy Moss at the Kentucky Derby. Harris competed last month. Trump gave former Miss USA Tara Conner a second chance more than a year ago after her underage partying and other inappropriate behavior. Las Vegan Katie Rees had her Miss Nevada USA title taken away in December 2006 after scandalous photographs surfaced.
-- Jason Taylor Watch --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
USA Today reports Miami Dolphins DE Jason Taylor waits to see if he will be traded, which he has said he certainly wouldn't mind. He waits to see what will become of his thus-far non-relationship with Parcells. He waits, and so do Dolphins fans. He could be traded in the next five minutes. Parcells has said it's not going to happen, but the Dolphins admit they at least had talks with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and owner Wayne Huizenga says he understands Taylor's Roman-numeral yearning and wouldn't mind accommodating him. Then again, Taylor could very well be on the Week 1 roster. What say you, Jeff Ireland, "We want the guy back, (and) nothing has changed since we started this whole process," he said on the final day of the draft. "It is not our doing. We want that guy back, and nothing has changed in that regard."
-- Super Bowl Package: The Absolute Best Deal! --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
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-- Ray Lewis Contract Talks at a Standstill --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
NFL.com's Adam Schefter reports now the Baltimore Ravens know what it feels like to run into perennial Pro Bowl LB Ray Lewis. The two sides have hit a stalemate on contract talks aimed at a long-term extension. After 12 seasons in Baltimore, Lewis is heading into the last year of his contract. The two sides have engaged in contract talks, the Ravens have weighed in with their multi-year offer, Lewis has spelled out his asking price, and too much of a gap now exists to make anyone think a deal is anywhere near imminent. But Baltimore knows Lewis will still play all out without an extension. Lewis knows he's going to get paid somewhere. And heading into this weekend's mandatory minicamp in Baltimore, each side is comfortable with where the situation is at... for now.
-- Jessica Simpson Calls Curse Ludicrous --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The San Francisco Chronicle reports Jessica Simpson has hit out at fans of the Dallas Cowboys for dubbing her a bad luck charm. Devotees of the Texas team turned on Simpson after her quarterback boyfriend QB Tony Romo under performed during games when she was watching in the stands. She was even mocked by U.S. president George W. Bush last month, when Super Bowl champions the New York Giants visited him in Washington D.C. Bush told the team, who beat the Cowboys in a game Simpson supposedly jinxed, "We're gonna send Jessica Simpson to the Democratic National Convention." But Simpson insists she had nothing to do with the team's bad performances, telling Glamour magazine, "I don't know -- other than me wearing my man's jersey and cheering him on. And him not playing the way he would've hoped and all of a sudden I'm to blame. "That was ludicrous. I don't understand why they think that I would be a distraction to Tony. Do they really think he can see way far up in that box? No. He's the most focused person I've ever dated."
-- Cowboys Name Judd Garrett --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Dallas morning News reports Judd Garrett, the younger brother of Cowboys OC Jason Garrett and tight ends coach John Garrett, will be named the team's assistant director of pro scouting, owner Jerry Jones confirmed Wednesday.
-- Redskins Fire Jon Bean --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Washington Post reports Jon Bean, the Redskins' director of security, was fired Monday, according to team sources. Contacted on his cellphone yesterday, Bean declined to comment other than to thank the Redskins for the opportunity, saying it was time for him to now "move on." A police officer for 25 years in Prince George's County, Bean was trusted and respected by players and coaches, team sources said.
-- Redskins Injury Update --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Washington Times reports Redskins QB Jason Campbell said his hamstring grabbed a little early in practice yesterday. He expects to be 100 percent in a couple of weeks. HC Jim Zorn said RB Clinton Portis (hamstring) will be ready for June 2 but might have injured himself with the 40-yard match race against S LaRon Landry that followed the end of minicamp Sunday.
-- Falcons Name Lionel Vital --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports the Falcons have hired Lionel Vital as assistant director of player personnel.
-- FFMastermind.com Wins 4th SI.com Fantasy Title in a Row! --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
FFMastermind.com's Michael Nazarek won the Championship Game in the SI.com Experts League in 2004, 2005 and 2006 and he just WON an unprecedented 4TH TITLE IN A ROW! He finished with a league best 11-5 record in this very competitive 12-team fantasy experts league and won in the Championship Game by a 120.15 to 109.35 score! Check it out by clicking HERE.
-- Panthers WR Update - D.J. Hackett Never Promised Starting Job --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Charlotte Observer reports while fellow Panthers WR Muhsin Muhammad understandably drew considerable attention in his return to the city where he once starred, don't be surprised if WR D.J. Hackett, the younger and faster of the two, winds up grabbing the most playing time opposite WR Steve Smith. Both will play in three-receiver sets, and neither seems to care if he takes the No. 2 or No. 3 role, at least publicly. Which is the way the Panthers like it. Because the bottom line is that double-teams on the talented Smith are likely to become fewer now, and that was the primary reason the two free agents were signed. Hackett said the Panthers never promised him a starting role, and that he's fine with that. He's just happy to be part of what he sees as a talented group. "I don't know much about what was here before, but from the looks of it now, it looks to be pretty good to me," he said. "We've got a lot of talent and some age out there as well, but not too old, so it looks good to me."
-- Shaun Alexander Leaves New Orleans Without Contract Offer --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Times-Picayune reports the Saints completed their visit with free-agent RB Shaun Alexander on Wednesday, but he returned home to Seattle without a contract offer. It's unclear how serious the interest is from either side. Alexander, who was released by the Seahawks last month, has just started to test the market. He visited Cincinnati on Sunday and Monday before flying to New Orleans. Alexander's agent, Jim Steiner, said the former league MVP and three-time Pro Bowl player has not set a timetable for choosing a team. "It all depends on how he feels about the team, the prospects of the team winning a championship, and what his role will be," Steiner said. Other teams have shown interest, but no other visits have been scheduled, he said. Alexander could wait well into the summer to see if injuries create more of a demand for his services. Regardless, the 30-year-old running back likely will have to settle for more of a complementary role with his next team.
-- John Lynch Has Doubters --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Denver Rocky Mountain News reports Broncos S John Lynch is convinced there's a segment in his own organization that believes his time as a full-time player has perhaps come and gone. And while he has been down this path before, when a neck injury led to his release by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2004, the vibe feels different this time. Having to take a pay cut in early March just to stay in Denver was one signal about his current standing in the organization's eyes. Even more telling was the cold shoulder he believes he received from some within the organization after his decision to return. Both, he said, let him know how he's perceived at this juncture of his career. "I think there's a split among the staff," Lynch said Wednesday after recognizing the academic, athletic and community achievements of young student leaders at his "Salute the Stars" program's annual banquet. "Some were happy for me to come back and some didn't say anything -- which tells you something." Lynch believes HC Mike Shanahan is in his corner, "but there were some people who probably felt they were better without me" or, more succinctly, that he had become a "situational player." Lynch, a nine-time Pro Bowl selection, including each of the past four seasons, admitted that running into such resistance was "hard to figure out" and that it "woke me up a little." But he said he's not blind to his advancing football age, acknowledging that while "there are things you lose," hard work and experience can help combat those deficiencies. Lynch is combating his skeptics by trying to whip himself into the best shape of his life.
-- Chris Henry: Best If He Starts Over Elsewhere --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Dayton Daily News reports troubled former Cincinnati Bengals WR Chris Henry said Wednesday, May 7, he "wouldn't mind" going back to Cincinnati but that resuming his NFL career elsewhere would be better. The Bengals released him last month and have expressed no interest in bringing him back. "I think it would be better to move on to another city, a fresh start, new team, new environment," Henry told Sporting News Radio. "I'm really a good guy. Just got caught up in a few bad situations. ... "I'm a father now. Got two kids, a little girl and a little boy. It ain't all about me no more. It's about my family." On "The Monty Show," Henry was asked if he felt "targeted" in Cincinnati, considering his numerous arrests in and around town. "It's been kind of rough for me," he said. "You know, just the fact that these little incidents in Cincinnati have been kind of negative things for me, dealing with cops and things like that. "But as far as fans and just people around town, everybody loves me, and I love all my fans."
-- Ty Law Watch --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The New York Daily News reports moles say the Jets remain interested in old friend CB Ty Law, a free agent. The Patriots reportedly have shown interest, but Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe writes on his blog today that the chances of a Law-Patriots reunion are getting slimmer by the day. He speculates that Law could re-surface in Cleveland, where he'd be reunited with another former Pats assistant, HC Romeo Crennel.
-- Lions Injury Update --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
Mlive reports Detroit Lions WR Shaun McDonald (knee surgery) and TE Dan Campbell (elbow) did not take part in any drills on Wednesday. OLB Ernie Sims and DE Cory Redding, due to undisclosed ailments, took part in individual drills but did not participate in group or team drills. The Detroit News adds S Daniel Bullocks (knee surgery on torn ACL) took part in individual drills but was held out of the team practice.
-- Hundreds of Premium Rookie Quick Bits Posted This Week! --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
 Looking for the very latest Rookie Quick Bits on the 2008 NFL Draft? FFMastermind.com is proud to bring Premium Rookie Quick Bits for your viewing pleasure! While our usual Quick Bits feature will continue to exist as a totally FREE feature throughout the season, we have shifted all of our ROOKIE Quick Bits to a special premium feature as a part of our 2008 Rookie Madness Draft Kit. This Kit is a part of our 2008 Super Bowl Premium package. 2007 Premium Subscribers can renew NOW at EARLYBIRD RENEWAL COST by logging into their account. In addition, Rookie Quick Bits is a part of our 2008 Mastermind's Madness Rookie Draft Kit. Everything you'll want to know about the NFL Rookie Class of 2008 can be found in this premium package for only $19.95! If you want to STAY INFORMED this off-season, Order Now!
-- Seahawks Practice Notes - Engram Still a No-Show --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Seattle Times reports Seahawks TE Jeb Putzier returned to the practice field on Wednesday as Seattle continued its voluntary veteran workouts. He watched Tuesday's workout. TE Zac Alcorn and WR Courtney Taylor did not participate in Wednesday's practice, watching with stocking caps. The team is not required to announce injuries or status of players during offseason workouts. WR Bobby Engram again was a no-show at the voluntary workout Wednesday.
-- Philip Rivers Throwing the Ball Well --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
TSN's Dennis Dillon reports San Diego Chargers QB Philip Rivers, who is coming back from surgery for a torn knee ligament, threw the ball well in individual drills and seven-on-seven drills during last weekend's minicamp.
-- Antonio Cromartie in Midseason Form --
Thu May 8, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
TSN's Dennis Dillon reports San Diego Chargers starting CB Antonio Cromartie, the NFL's interceptions leader last season (10), looked to be in midseason form during last weekend's minicamp. He picked off several passes during practices.
-- Two Titans OUT for OTAs --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
Thr Nashville City Paper reports Titans WR Roydell Williams won't take part in organized team activities Thursday and Friday when the Tennessee Titans begin their workouts. Williams suffered a broken right ankle on the indoor practice facility surface in January during the Titans' week of preparation for the AFC Divisional Playoffs against the San Diego Chargers and underwent surgery to repair the injury, a cracked bone at the base of his tibia, a short time later. Screws and a plate were inserted during surgery to help the healing process. Since that time, Williams has been rehabbing the injury and will not be available when OTAs start Thursday. Thursday's practice is closed, but Friday's session is open to the media. It is not known exactly when Williams will be cleared to take part in off-season work, but when he had the surgery, the Titans said at the time they expected him to be fully recovered in time for the coming season. DT Albert Haynesworth won't be participating in the OTAs either, but for a much different reason. Haynesworth, who was franchised by the Titans in the off-season, has yet to sign his one-year tender offer and is “continuing to work out on his own,” agent Chad Speck said.
-- Matt Walsh Sends Eight Tapes to NFL, But... --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The New York Times reports a former New England Patriots employee has sent the N.F.L. eight videotapes showing the team recorded play-calling signals by coaches of five opponents in six games between the 2000 and 2002 seasons, in violation of league rules. But the group of tapes does not include video of the St. Louis Rams' walk-through practice the day before the 2002 Super Bowl. The employee, Matt Walsh, had been linked to such a tape by news media speculation.
-- Chris Henry Wants to Play for Cowboys or Saints, But... --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
ESPN's James Walker reports in his first public comments since being released by the Bengals, WR Chris Henry said he is excited about Tuesday's court ruling that he will be allowed to visit other NFL teams. As of Wednesday afternoon, no official visits were scheduled. But Henry mentioned a pair of teams at the top of his wish list. "There are two teams that I would always love to play for: That's New Orleans and Dallas," Henry said. "New Orleans is home for me. That's always been a big dream of mine. Hopefully I can get in there and sit down with the coaches and maybe have an opportunity to get down there. And Dallas is another team that I've always looked up to as a kid and wanted to play for them." It is unknown at this point if either the Saints or the Cowboys want to meet with Henry, who says he is keeping his options open and "willing to visit whoever is interested." He will be required to show the Hamilton County (Ohio) Court a letter from the team for which he is trying out before being permitted to travel. Henry contends he is in decent football shape. He spent approximately four weeks in Cincinnati's offseason workout program before being released. But house arrest admittedly has hurt him recently in that regard.
-- Unhappy Robbie Gould Shows --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Chicago Sun-Times reports Bears PK Robbie Gould has been participating in the voluntary offseason workout program this week after taking the first month off. Gould is entering the final season of his four-year contract that has been a bargain for the club. Now, Gould's represented the Bears at the Pro Bowl once, and was an alternate last season. He's the club's all-time leader in field-goal accuracy. And he wants to be paid. By showing up with a little more than a month remaining in workouts, he shows some goodwill. No one has said so, but it could be a deal is coming in the near future.
-- Why Subscribe to FFMastermind.com? --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
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-- Bears Release Two --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
AP reports the Chicago Bears have released DT Babatunde Oshinowo and OG Mike Jones.
-- Seahawks RB Update --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The News-Tribune reports Seahawks HC Mike Homgren said that both RB Julius Jones and RB Maurice Morris will play at tailback. However, RB T.J. Duckett could see action at both tailback and fullback. "The running back position, Julius and Mo (Morris) will both play. I have to kind of see how we are going to use Duckett. That is what I am looking at right now; Fullback, halfback. He has been a halfback but I would like him to move into fullback a little bit."
-- Lions' Roy Williams Speaks! --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Detroit Free Press reports Lions WR Roy Williams talked to reporters after practice Wednesday. He touched on the trade rumors that swirled around him earlier this off-season, whether he wants to play in Dallas someday, his contract situation and the Lions' new approach on offense. What did you think of all the trade talk? “It was a lot of talk. I'm here, and that's it. I'm here. My job is to try to help this team win.” How do you feel about being here? “I'm just happy to be in the league, man. There's a lot of guys that's not in this thing. I'm just happy to be here.” Did you ever seriously think you might be traded? “From all the rumors, I thought I was out of here. Just from listening to everything. But then I listened to Coach saying I wasn't going nowhere, so that reassured me that I wasn't going anywhere.” How many times did HC Rod Marinelli call you? “He just called me one time in March. He said, 'It's done. You're not going nowhere.' ”
-- Redskins Injury Update - Campbell & Portis Have Hamstring Issues --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Washington Post reports Redskins QB Jason Campbell has what the team described as a minor hamstring injury. "He just felt it grab, it didn't pull all the way," HC Jim Zorn said yesterday after the last of the team's three organized team activities at Redskins Park. "He was feeling his hamstrings all along, and I think it's because I have him" bending his knees more to stay at one level while dropping back. Obviously, Zorn was not pleased that Campbell was injured, but "just the fact that different things are happening to his body ..... for me it's good," Zorn said. "He'll regroup. He's not a chronic hamstring-puller in my mind. He's going to be fine." RB Clinton Portis (minor hip injury) sat out practice. Zorn theorized that the injury could have occurred when Portis and S LaRon Landry raced against each other Sunday.
-- Colts Sign Dominic Rhodes --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Indianapolis Star reports RB Dominic Rhodes has rejoined the Indianapolis Colts, signing a one-year deal with the team he helped lead to a Super Bowl championship. Rhodes, a free agent after being recently released by the Oakland Raiders, will receive approximately $650,000.
-- Texans Top WRs & TEs --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
Houston Chronicle's John McClain reports the Texans top four receivers are WR Andre Johnson, WR Kevin Walter, WR Andre Davis and WR Jacoby Jones. There are no changes among the three tight ends with TE Owen Daniels, TE Mark Bruener and TE Joel Dreessen.
-- Michael Strahan Leaning One Way, But... --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
Newsday.com reports in an appearance on "FOX & Friends" Tuesday, New York Giants DE Michael Strahan addressed his looming retirement decision. "Right now I know where I'm leaning but I don't want to say it until I'm sure," he said. "Once you either say you're going to play or you're not going to play, you can't go back, at least in my opinion. So I want to make sure I'm completely sure."
-- Worth The Price in Gold --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
FFMastermind.com Super Bowl premium package subscriber Rob Williams shares his thoughts on why our premium services are Worth The Price in Gold. Patrons eyeing a subscription should check out what Rob has to say!
-- Bengals Worried About Ability to Re-Sign T.J. --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
SI.com's Peter King reports it sounds like the Bengals didn't draft three wide receivers last week just because of the WR Chad Johnson holdout and the WR Chris Henry firing. Bengals HC Marvin Lewis said there's a WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh element to it, too. "T.J.'s at the end of his contract this year,'' Lewis said, "and I don't know if it's possible to re-sign him. Chad says he won't play without a trade. We just have to be prepared for anything this year, and for the future.'' This is the last year of a four-year contract for Houshmandzadeh, who has been in Johnson's shadow for most of his seven years in Cincinnati. He's due to make $2.65 million, plus a $100,000 workout bonus if he accrues enough time in the Bengals' offseason program. Few receivers can match his production over the past two years -- 202 catches, 2,224 yards, 21 touchdowns -- and he'll be 31 at the end of this season. He's missed only four games over the last four years, so injury shouldn't be a concern. Will someone be willing to pay him $10 million a year if he becomes a free agent? Probably, if he exits this year injury-free. If WR Javon Walker can get $27 million in the first three years of a deal with Oakland and he can't stay on the field for a season, and if the market for wideouts is weak, Houshmandzadeh could hit the jackpot.
-- Woman Passenger Supports Cedric Benson --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Chicago Tribune reports a female passenger on Bears RB Cedric Benson's boat Saturday night in Austin, Texas, was concerned enough about his safety after police took him into custody to phone her parents and urge them to call 911, the Tribune has learned. "I called my dad and told him, 'Call 911, my black friend is getting beaten up by police on Lake Travis,' " said Elizabeth Cartwright, 22, a friend of Benson's from the University of Texas. "It's more what I heard than what I saw. I have never heard or seen Cedric that scared." Cartwright put in writing her version of the events on Lake Travis that resulted in Benson being charged with boating while intoxicated and resisting arrest. She says she is willing to submit her document as evidence supporting his account. She said her fiance also took dozens of photographs that help corroborate her claims. In a 45-minute phone interview, she explained that she chose to come forward because of concerns that Benson's reputation was being "tainted" by accounts of the incident.
-- Jon Kitna Repeats His 10-Win Season Statement --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Detroit News reports Lions QB Jon Kitna repeated his spring statement of last year and this year that anything less than 10 wins will be a disappointment. "Our expectation is, we will be disappointed if we don't win 10 games because that will mean we are not in the playoffs," Kitna said. "I can't make it any simpler than that. Anybody who says that's not their expectation level is unfortunately not very much of a competitor."
-- Bucs Not Interested in Chris Henry --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
Sources tell PewterReport.com that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are not interested in signing former Cincinnati Bengals WR Chris Henry, who was released due to his off-the-field issues but reportedly has a tryout scheduled with an NFL team.
-- Alex Smith Sharper Than Shaun Hill --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The San Francisco Chronicle reports 49ers QB Shaun Hill didn't look nearly as sharp as QB Alex Smith during the team's recent mini-camp, and his last practice was "sloppy."
-- Seahawks Won't Redo Bobby Engram's Contract --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The News-Tribune reports the Seattle Seahawks are not going to renegotiate WR Bobby Engram's contract, despite Engram's displeasure with his current salary. Engram skipped a second day of the team's four-day voluntary mini-camp on Tuesday in protest of what he feels is an unfair contract based on his record-setting production last year. But the Seahawks are adamant that Engram plays out the final season of his two-year, $3.4 million contract, after which they would be willing to negotiate with Engram as a free agent. Engram wrote a letter to HC Mike Holmgren, dropping it off on his desk on Tuesday morning. Though Holmgren said he had not yet read the letter before he met with the media following Tuesday's practice, he said he assumed the letter explained why Engram is skipping the team's mini-camp this week. If that was indeed the case, certainly some of what Engram told Holmgren is that his $1.7 million salary was almost half of what injured WR Deion Branch ($3.5 million) and WR Nate Burleson ($3.25 million) will make. However, the team feels that it rewarded Engram with his current two-year deal after Engram missed nine games during the 2006 with a thyroid condition, a year in which Engram caught only 24 passes for 290 yards. Engram was paid $1.4 million for that season. Engram also may have explained to Holmgren that the team does reward players for their contributions. It recently gave LB Lofa Tatupu a six-year, $42 million extension even though Tatupu had two years left on his rookie contract that would have paid him a total of $1.1 million. Engram caught a franchise-record 94 passes last season for 1,147 yards. The Seahawks counter that Tatupu is a 25-year-old three-time Pro Bowler with no history of injuries who they did not want to get on the open market and risk losing. Engram also certainly is trying to leverage his situation. With Branch sidelined for training camp and at least part of the season, the Seahawks and QB Matt Hasselbeck are forced to rely upon Engram, WR Nate Burleson and a group of young, unproven receivers. But the Seahawks believe Branch, who had reconstructive knee surgery in January, will be back sooner than expected. They also believe that either WR Courtney Taylor, WR Ben Obomanu or WR Logan Payne is ready to be a productive receiver. Furthermore, at 35, the Seahawks know Engram can hardly afford to lose this year's salary and a season of not playing, perhaps the reason that Holmgren said he thinks Engram will be at training camp, which starts at the end of July and is mandatory. Burleson said, he is almost positive that Engram will be in uniform when the Seahawks play their first game. “When there are 60,000 people out there and the lights come on at Qwest Field, Bobby is going to be ready to play,” Burleson said. “I continue to say that Bobby is one of the most consistent receivers I have played with in my life. Once game time comes around, I am not concerned about the offseason."
-- 13 Years and Still Going Strong... --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
Newbies to FFMastermind.com may not realize that our NFL Quick Bits feature has been providing the LATEST NFL NEWS ROUND THE CLOCK FOR 13 YEARS now. We began this feature way back in 1996, before the Internet boom and it's still going strong! Heck, we were blogging before that term even existed! Smart fantasy owners BOOKMARK this page and check it EVERY DAY of the preseason and in-season for the latest REAL-TIME NFL NEWS! And NFL news junkies can now subscribe to our RSS Feed to get the latest NFL news delivered right to their browser! Sit back and relax and watch us do all the work!
-- Marvin Harrison Could be Charged with Misdemeanor If... --
Wed May 7, 2008 --from FFMastermind.com
The Indianapolis Star reports under Pennsylvania law, Colts WR Marvin Harrison can be charged with a misdemeanor if it's proven his gun was used in a shooting, even if someone else pulled the trigger. If Harrison is found to have been involved in any gun-related crime, it could subject him to discipline, including a suspension, by the NFL under it
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