NFL Quick Bits - NFL Breaking News and Fantasy Football Updates

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Last Updated: Mon May 20, 2013, 12:56 PM

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-- Rob Gronkowski's Surgery Set for Monday --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Boston Herald reports Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski will have a fourth procedure performed on his left forearm tomorrow at Massachusetts General Hospital, according to a source with knowledge of the situation. The date was somewhat up in the air, but come tomorrow Gronk will have some definitive answers about whether he’s finally free and clear from an infection that’s dogged him for months. It’s been widely reported that Dr. Jesse Jupiter will perform the surgery. According to MGH’s website, Jupiter specializes in the care of traumatic and reconstructive problems of the upper limbs, including fracture healing and failure to heal. Dr. Thomas Gill, the Patriots head team physician, is also expected to be on hand. Cultures are expected to be taken from the forearm, and if they come back clean of infection, a new plate will replace the one that’s been keeping the broken forearm bone in place. If the cultures still have evidence of infection, Jupiter won’t be able to put in the new plate, and it’s back to square one, and the possibility of missed games creeps into the equation. Results from the cultures are expected to come one week after surgery. If all goes well, the plate will be switched, and Gronk will start out on his 10-11 week recovery phase.

-- RGIII on Track in Recovery --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

USA Today reports Washington Redskins QB Robert Griffin III has been throwing a football since late April, his father said on Friday. The 2012 offensive rookie of the year appears ahead of schedule and on track to realize his goal of starting the Washington Redskins' Sept. 9 Monday night season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. RGIII wrote himself on his Twitter account that his throwing regimen included "a couple roll out throws…But some take Friday off.''

-- Back Surgery for Rob Gronkowski? --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

USA Today reports a disc issue in New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski's back is being examined and could require surgery. ESPN's Adam Schefter adds Gronkowski's back issue is considered minor, according to a source. If he needs surgery, it'd be during the time frame that he'd be out with arm surgery. A quote from a person close to Gronk: "He is going to be fine long term. (He is) not worried about the short term, I.e. start of training camp." Gronkowski recently underwent an MRI on his back to check on a disk issue from last season according to ESPN and media reports. The injury is not considered serious, the source said. If he needs back surgery, it would be performed during the time frame he would be sidelined after his forearm surgery, which is expected next week. Gronkowski will see noted spine specialist Robert Watkins in the near future following his surgery on his forearm. That surgery if all goes well will take about 10 weeks for Gronkowski to recover from.

-- 2013 Enhanced Executive Draft Master Debuts! --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Super Bowl, Drafter's Edge, and Executive Draft Master premium package subscribers take note. With the release on our initial 2013 Masters List Customizeable Cheatsheets, we add the debut of the Enhanced 2013 Executive Draft Master! This Excel App takes drafting to the next level with Customizable Cheatsheets and Updated Projections from the Definitive Fantasy Football Information Service, as well as Auction Values that adjust ON THE FLY as you draft! This year's software includes a TOP PLAYERS LIST regardless of position! In addition, it includes Decimal Options (applicable for Auction Drafts) - 0, 1 or 2 decimals for those of you who play in leagues that require auction values less than $1. Patrons can ORDER our Enhanced 2013 Executive Draft Master for just $11.95. Best of all, it comes FREE with a Super Bowl Package purchase!

-- Fantasy Football Just Sayin' - May 2013 --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com exclusive writer John Cooney riffs on Fantasy Football in May with his quick take in Just Sayin'. What do Tim Tebow, Rueben Randle, Lamar Miller and Ricky Watters have in common? Tune in to find out!

-- Rob Gronkowski's 4th Surgery Set for Monday --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski's 4th forearm surgery is imminent. The plan is for the surgery to take place on Monday. They took X-Rays, and he was examined yesterday.

-- 2013 May Fantasy Player Re-Drafter Rankings/Masters List Customizeable Cheatsheets Released! --
Tue May 14, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Premium Pro Bowl and Super Bowl package subscribers take note. The Initial set of FFMastermind.com 2013 May Fantasy Player Re-Drafter Rankings with Projections & Analysis has been released for your viewing pleasure. This initial set includes Tiered rankings (both PPR & Non-PPR) and projections via the Masters List Excel App. for QBs, RBs, WRs, TEs, PKs, and team defenses as well as specific player analysis discussing sleepers, creepers, and situations to watch over the coming months. Premium package subscribers can view this set by logging into their premium account.

-- 2013 May Dynasty/Keeper Fantasy Rankings Released! --
Tue May 14, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

2013 Pro Bowl and Super Bowl package subscribers take note. Are you looking for UPDATED fantasy keeper/dynasty player rankings? Need to make a cutdown on your roster by June? No problem! Keeper Korner columnist Brent Lathrop has just released his 2013 May Dynasty/Keeper Fantasy Rankings (including comments for each player ranked) for your viewing pleasure. Remember, these rankings could change significantly once training camps begin later this summer, but they do represent a good current guideline for how we feel players in keeper/dynasty leagues stack up. Log into your premium account and Enjoy.

-- 2013 NFL Depth Charts Debuts! --
Fri May 10, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Looking for an accurate 2013 NFL Depth Chart? No problem. FFMastermind.com debuts our 2013 NFL Depth Charts! These special depth charts go three teams deep for all 32 NFL teams and can be viewed with a premium Pro Bowl or Super Bowl package purchase. They will be updated often as we march towards the start of the 2013 NFL season! Log into your premium account to check out the first cut!

-- May Offensive Overall & Positional Rookie Rankings! --
Mon May 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Premium Pro Bowl and Super Bowl package subscribers take note. FFMastermind.com Senior Fantasy Writer John Holler has completed his fantasy analysis of the April Rookie Draft to offer his Mastermind's Madness May Short-Term/Long-Term Offensive Overall & Positional Rookie Rankings. This special feature includes a set of top 50 rankings for 2013 (short-term) and a top 50 set for the next three years (long-term) regarding the Rookie Class from a Fantasy Viewpoint. In addition, Holler adds his fantasy analysis in positional rookie rankings (both short-term and long-term for QBs, RBs, WRs, TEs, and PKs) covering 77 key skilled-position rookies! Log into your premium account and Enjoy.

-- Comprehensive 2013 NFL Rookie Draft Review Released! --
Mon May 6, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Premium Pro Bowl & Super Bowl Package subscribers take note. FFMastermind.com Senior Fantasy Writer John Holler returns this month with a special comprehensive look at the Rookie Class of 2013 in Mastermind's Madness NFL Rookie Draft Review. This special update includes Fantasy Analysis (Team-by-Team) of the 2013 Rookie Class. Log into your premium account and Enjoy!

-- Free Madness Rookie Draft Reference Guide Sneak Peek! --
Wed Apr 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Wondering what's in our 2013 100+ page Madness Rookie Draft Reference Guide? No problem! Patrons can enjoy a special Free Sneak Peek into this comprehensive premium document! Enjoy.

Last Updated: Mon May 20, 2013, 12:56 PM

-- Seahawks Make Player Moves --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Seattle Seahawks have signed second-round draft pick RB Christine Michael. In addition, the Seahawks released LS Adam Steiner and re-signed TE Darren Fells, a former professional basketball player.

-- Why Subscribe to FFMastermind.com? --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Why subscribe to Fantasy Football Mastermind? Click HERE and we'll tell you why. Remember, it's never too early to get access to the best fantasy football information from The Definitive Fantasy Information Service, the same service that's topped the most knowledgeable experts at SI.com for FOUR consecutive years! Take it from thousands of Satisfied Customers. We are serious about helping you REACH A HIGHER PLATEAU and win it all!

-- LeSean McCoy Dinged --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

CSNPhilly.com reports Eagles RB LeSean McCoy left the field today to have his knee examined on the sideline and did not return before the session came to an end. McCoy did not appear to be seriously injured and the Philadelphia Inquirer adds McCoy spoke briefly as he went to lunch, giving the impression it wasn't serious.

-- Mike Goodson Shows, But Sits --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York Jets RB Mike Goodson, arrested last week on drugs/weapon charges, showed up for the Jets 1st OTA today (voluntary). That said, he isn't practicing.

-- Bears Release Andre Fluellen --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Tribune reports the Bears have terminated the contract of DT Andre Fluellen.

-- Willis McGahee No Shows --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Denver Post reports Broncos RB Willis McGahee is not expected to attend OTA today. "He's following the same routine he's done his whole career. He'll be there," his agent said.

-- Bills Host Montell Owens --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Buffalo Bills official website reports free-agent FB Montell Owens visited the Bills on Monday.

-- Chad Johnson Arrested --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports free-agent WR Chad Johnson has been arrested for violating the terms of his probation in his 2012 domestic violence case. Johnson missed two visits with his probation officer, and failed to prove he had enrolled in a domestic violence education class.

-- Ed Reed Rehab Watch --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Chronicle reports Texans S Ed Reed is recovering from arthroscopic hip surgery he had in April to repair a torn labrum. The Texans have termed Reed's surgery to be minor and expect him back for training camp or midway through it. Training camp begins three months after Reed's surgery.

-- Calvin Johnson Played 2012 with Broken Fingers --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Detroit Lions Insider Chris McCoskey reports Lions WR Calvin Johnson confirmed that he played with broken fingers last season. He said he's been trying to straighten them out without offseason surgery. "Ain’t nothing that’s going to prohibit me from doing what I got to do," Johnson said about the situation.

-- Quentin Jammer Watch --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Chargers haven’t shown much interest in re-signing free-agent CB Quentin Jammer since he became a free agent in March, but Jammer isn’t giving up hope that the only NFL team he’s played for might still come around. Jammer was at a charity golf tournament near San Diego this weekend and said that he would like to remain with the Chargers even though GM Tom Telesco has been spending the team’s money in other places this offseason. Jammer understands that the team has identified more pressing priorities, but hopes he’s somewhere on that list. “I’d love to come back,” Jammer said, via the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I’ve had conversations with them. I totally understood the direction they were going in. They said the door wasn’t completely closed. Hopefully, maybe down the road a little bit, the Chargers will offer me something.”

-- FFMastermind.com Subscribers Win Thousands! --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Many patrons ask Why should they subscribe to FFMastermind.com Premium Services when they are other cheaper services? Did you know that the winners of the 2012 FFWC ($200,000 Grand Prize), 2010 FFPC ($100,000 Grand Prize), 2008 NBC Sports NFFC Primetime Event ($100,000 Grand Prize), 2005 NFFC ($100,000 Grand Prize), 2005 & 2006 PayDaySports ($65,000 Grand Prize), and 2005 Fantasy VIPs ($25,000 Grand Prize) High Stakes Fantasy Football Contests are all FFMastermind.com Premium Service Subscribers? Yup, it's true. Winners know THE BEST when they see it. And FFMastermind.com is happy to help them win THOUSANDS! Isn't it about time you took winning more seriously? Take it from thousands of Satisfied Customers. We are serious about helping you win it all! Order Now!

-- Desmond Bishop Rehab Watch --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports Packers LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring) expects to be ready for August. "My injury side is perfect," Bishop said. "It's 100%. But I have little nicks and knacks here just from being out and trying to get back in. So we'll see how I feel, but I don't really want to rush it. There's no point in rushing it right now."

-- Harbor & Avant Not Changing Positions --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles TE Clay Harbor spent one day of practice at outside linebacker. WR Jason Avant took practice repetitions with defensive backs. Neither player is changing positions. Rather, it seems to be an effort to explore different scenarios, if needed. The Eagles begin their second week of OTAs on Monday.

-- Tom Brady: I've Never Felt More Confident Throwing the Football --
Mon May 20, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New England Patriots QB Tom Brady leads off Peter King's "Monday Morning Quarterback" piece on SI.com, with King speaking to Brady about his offseason and also his charity of choice, Best Buddies. Brady tells King: "Going into my 14th year, I have never had more confidence in how I am throwing the football. I've never felt better throwing the football." Brady details some of the work he's done with throwing coach Tom House, and how he's developed a quick rapport with House. "The same way Tom Martinez was always there to watch and give me corrections, Tom House has told me why certain corrections need to be made," Brady tells King. "Look at a baseball swing and a golf swing. It's all mechanics. Look at how Barry Bonds swings. Look at how Floyd Mayweather punches. Mechanics. When you've got to fit it into the tightest windows, mechanics are crucial. And to me, the offseason is crucial. If you make a throw within four feet, that's not going to be good enough. You have to make the throw within four inches of your target. That's good enough. And that's why the mechanics you adjust and learn in the offseason are important. You're going to keep them during the season."

-- E.J. Manuel Says Bills System Easier Than College --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Buffalo Bills rookie QB E.J. Manuel told SiriusXM NFL Radio on Friday that he has figured out the system used by HC Doug Marrone and OC Nathaniel Hackett. “The funny thing is it’s easier to learn than the offense I had at Florida State,” the 16th overall pick in the draft said, via ESPN.com. “It’s a true West Coast-type progression offense. That’s really what I wanted when I was coming through the pre-draft process. I wanted something that I could just go in and say 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, check it down and run it. That’s it, it’s that simple. I love it. . . . The learning curve for me is a lot shorter simply because of what I had at Florida State. [The Seminoles' offense is] more complex and a little bit harder to catch on and learn. This offense is very simple. I’ve done a great job with it.”

-- Charlie Batch Watch --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tribune-Review reports free-agent QB Charlie Batch says he has no plans to retire from the NFL.

-- Brooks Reed 100% Healthy --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

CSNHouston reports Texans LB Brooks Reed is “100 percent” after January groin surgery and was able to work out ahead of the beginning of the club’s organized team practice activities.

-- Bills to Sign 2nd-Rounder Robert Woods --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports The Buffalo Bills nearly have their entire 2013 rookie NFL draft class under contract. Buffalo reached a four-year agreement with second-round pick and rookie WR Robert Woods, a source says. The Bills now have contract agreements with seven of their eight draft picks. First-round pick QB E.J. Manuel, who was taken No. 16 overall, remains the only unsigned player from the 2013 class.

-- Jets Didn't Show Interest in Brian Hoyer This Year --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Daily News reports the Jets didn't make offer or express interest in QB Brian Hoyer before he signed with the Cleveland Browns last week. There was some interest last year, though.

-- A Magic Act in 2010 --
Sun May 19, 2013 --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!

-- Larry Fitzgerald: 2012 Most Frustrating Season --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports statistics don’t always tell the entire story, but they do a pretty good job of providing everything you need to know about how 2012 went for Arizona Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald. His 71 catches were his least for a season since 2006 and he never had a lower average than the 11.2 yards per catch he picked up last year. The Cardinals finished 5-11 after winning their first four games and Fitzgerald is quite sure that he doesn’t want to go through another year like that in 2013. “It was the most frustrating season, time, I’ve ever had professionally or even amateur. I’ve never had a year like that,” Fitzgerald said, via the Arizona Republic. “It was tough mentally. Physically, it was tough. It builds resolve. I know I never want to go through a season like that personally or as a team and I’m going to do everything in my power not to ever repeat that. It left a real bad taste in my mouth.” With QB Carson Palmer and QB Drew Stanton in Arizona, it's highly unlikely Fitzgerald will have to suffer through another season like that in 2013.

-- Titans Prefer Walker to Cook? --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The National Football Post reports the Tennessee Titans think they can get more out of TE Delanie Walker than they did TE Jared Cook. In fact, their coaches are planning on playing Walker for more snaps than they played Cook. Why? They think Walker is a more versatile tight end. They see him as a player who can do the things Cook did in terms of splitting out and creating mismatches, and they also see him as a player who can be an in-line tight end who is a factor in the run game and run the more traditional tight end pass routes.

-- Will the Jets Cut Mike Goodson? --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports it will be interesting to see how New York Jets GM John Idzik handles the RB Mike Goodson situation. He cut the two nobodies arrested recently for possession of marijuana, Claude Davis and Cliff Harris, both of whom were signed by the previous administration. But that doesn't mean he will take the same approach with Goodson, whose contract includes a $1 million signing bonus. The bonus is divided into payouts, and he has yet to receive the full amount; he has pocketed at least $500,000. If Idzik tries to send a message and decides to cut him before the legal process plays out, it would be harder to recoup the money, according to a source. He'll have a better chance if he waits for the courts (and the league) to rule on the matter.

-- Trent Richardson Unlikely to Face Charges --
Sun May 19, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Morning Journal reports a lawsuit against Cleveland Browns RB Trent Richardson was transferred from Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court to Lorain County Common Pleas Court. Kathleen Hunter and Krystal Jones filed a lawsuit in March against Trent Richardson, his brother Terrell Richardson, Trent Richardson’s girlfriend and others . The lawsuit alleges that Trent Richardson and other people assaulted them verbally and physically at Richardson’s Columbia Township home on Dec. 10, 2012. Elyria City Prosecutor Matt Mishak said yesterday that there are conflicting statements and lack of evidence for there to be probable cause for an arrest. Based on the information the sheriff’s department received, unless there’s something new that would help with the conflicting statements, Mishak said he doesn’t see any charges filed.

-- Kyle Love Passes Physical with Jaguars --
Sat May 18, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the medical condition that made DL Kyle Love unfit for further employment with the Patriots has not kept him from working for the Jaguars. According to USA Today, Love passed a Friday physical in Jacksonville, with one caveat — the he receive treatment for Type-2 diabetes. Clearance came after the Jaguars subjected Love to a “battery of tests” at the team’s facility. On Thursday, the Jaguars claimed Love’s contract on waivers, following his release by the Patriots.

-- Victor Cruz Talks Moving Slowly --
Sat May 18, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports a source with knowledge of the situation says the New York Giants and unsigned WR Victor Cruz continue to talk, but that the process is “moving slowly.” Talks are expected to resume this week. Cruz, who has not yet signed a one-year, $2.879 million restricted free agency tender, has been staying away from the team’s offseason workouts as he pursues a long-term deal. He reportedly wants more than $10 million per year; the Giants at last word were in the $7 million annual range.

-- Eagles Experimenting with Harbor & Avant --
Sat May 18, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles TE Clay Harbor has spent one day practicing at outside linebacker, while Avant has seen time at defensive back.

-- Jets Could Add Another QB --
Sat May 18, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the New York Jets could add another quarterback to replace QB David Garrard on their roster.

-- Sign Up for Free Fantasy Newsletters! --
Sat May 18, 2013 --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?

-- Mike Goodson Out of Jail; Faces Four Charges --
Sat May 18, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York Jets RB Mike Goodson was arrested Friday morning on drug possession and weapon charges, according to the New Jersey state police. Goodson was found with another man stopped in the center-left lane on Interstate 80 in Denville, N.J., just after 3 a.m. ET, police said. A tow truck driver found them and called 911 due to concerns about the physical condition of Goodson, who was in the passenger seat of a GMC Yukon SUV. He was transported to St. Clare's Hospital, then brought to police offices where he was deemed healthy enough to discharge. Before heading to the hospital, Goodson was found carrying a small amount of marijuana, while there was additional marijuana and a loaded .45-caliber semi-automatic handgun in the car. The 25-year-old Goodson was charged with possession of marijuana under 50 grams, possession of paraphernalia, unlawful possession of a loaded handgun and possession of hollow-point bullets. Goodson was taken to the Morris County Correctional Facility but left after his $50,000 bail had been posted.

-- Chargers; Dwight Freeney Agree to Contract --
Sat May 18, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports a source says the San Diego Chargers have an agreement in principle for a two-year deal with free-agent DE Dwight Freeney. NBC Sports adds a source with knowledge of the deal says Freeney’s two-year contract with the Chargers carries a base value of $8.75 million. The deal pays $5.25 million in 2013, via a $3.25 million signing bonus, $1.5 million in guaranteed base salary, and a $500,000 roster bonus tied to Freeney’s presence on the weekly 46-man roster. It works out to $31,250 per game. Freeney is due to earn $3.5 million in 2014, $500,000 of which is linked to weekly roster bonuses. The contract carries a maximum value of $13.35 million, with $4.6 million tied exclusively to sacks. Though the targets aren’t currently known, we’re told that the numbers are realistic, based on his past production.

-- Chargers Close to Signing Dwight Freeney --
Sat May 18, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports the San Diego Chargers are closing in on signing veteran pass rusher DE Dwight Freeney, according to a league source. Freeney, one of the game's dominant sack masters during his 10-year stint in Indianapolis, has been on the market for months, making a series of visits to teams. Most recently -- on Wednesday and Thursday -- Freeney met with the Chargers.

-- Bears Sign First-Rounder Kyle Long --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Bears official website reports the Bears have signed first-round draft pick OG Kyle Long to a four-year contract with a club option for a fifth year.

-- Moise Fokou Arrested for DUI in January; Pleads Not Guilty --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Washingtonian reports Tennessee Titans LB Moise Fokou has been arrested in Washington and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or a drug. The allegations only concern the use of alcohol; Fokou has pleaded not guilty. A United States Park Police officer arrested the 27-year-old Fokou around 3 AM on a Friday in January. The officer pulled Fokou over after witnessing Fokou drive his BMW at a high rate of speed and across the solid double yellow lines on 14th Street near McPherson Square, the arresting officer said in a sworn statement.

-- Shaun Hill Undergoes Surgery --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Detroit Free Press reports Lions backup QB Shaun Hill currently has a boot on his left foot. He said he underwent minor surgery to repair a nagging injury.

-- Dolphins Sign Two Rookies --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Miami Dolphins have signed 4th-round draft pick TE Dion Sims and 5th-rounder RB Mike Gillislee to four-year contracts.

-- Phil Costa Cleared to Play Football --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Dallas Cowboys OL Phil Costa (ankle surgery) has been fully medically cleared to play football.

-- 2013 EarlyBird Premium Rates Winding Down! --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

For the 17th consecutive year, FFMastermind.com is proud to offer special EarlyBird Discount Rates for our Premium Services. With the release of our Initial 2013 Keeper/Dynasty Player Rankings and our 2013 Top 12 Non-PPR & PPR Fantasy Player Rankings, the 2013 Premium Season is underway. How do you get access to these special off-season items? That's easy. Just head over to our Secure Order Form and order our 2013 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!

-- Bruce Irvin Suspended Four Games --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the NFL has suspended Seattle Seahawks DE Bruce Irvin four games for violating the league's policy against performance-enhancing substances.

-- Redskins Sign 4th-Rounder Phillip Thomas --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports the Washington Redskins have signed 4th-round draft pick S Phillip Thomas to a four-year contract.

-- Patriots Sign 2nd-Rounder Jamie Collins --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the New England Patriots have signed 2nd-round draft pick LB Jamie Collins to a four-year contract.

-- Mike Goodson Arrested --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

News 12 in New Jersey reports New York Jets RB Mike Goodson has been taken into New Jersey police custody for drug possession and weapons charges. Goodson was apparently so drunk that an ambulance was called and he had to be rushed to the hospital.

-- LeSean McCoy in Great Shape --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles RB LeSean McCoy came into spring workouts in perhaps his best shape ever. He still has something to prove. He could have a blockbuster season.

-- Falcons Sign Three Rookies --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports the Falcons have signed rookies S Zeke Motta, DE Malliciah Goodman, and DE Stansly Maponga.

-- Freeney Wants to be a Giant, But... --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Daily News reports free-agent DE Dwight Freeney's father says Freeney wants to play for the New York Giants, but can't because of their salary cap situation. In the father's eyes, they are "broke."

-- Peyton Manning Signs New Deal, But... --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Denver Broncos executive V.P. of football operations John Elway said he didn’t anticipate asking QB Peyton Manning to restructure for cap purposes a deal that pays $40 million over the next two seasons, in two $20 million chunks. But Manning has signed a new deal. Though it has been disclosed on the league’s official online transaction page as a “renegotiated” contract, a source with knowledge of the situation says that the new terms don’t alter the compensation in any way. The contract, according to the source, adds an insurance clause, which reflects that the team has purchased an insurance policy in the event Manning suffers a serious injury. The insurance would both compensate the Broncos and provide a cap credit in the event Peyton can’t play. To get the cap credit, the contract must refer to the insurance policy. Manning will earn $40 million guaranteed over the next two seasons, in $20 million chunks for 2013 and 2014, respectively. The Broncos can avoid the $20 million payment in 2014 only if Manning suffers injury to the same area of his neck that kept him from playing in 2011.

-- Going Against the Grain to Win $100,000! --
Fri May 17, 2013 --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 in 2008 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!

-- Charles Woodson Gets Offer from Broncos --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports free-agent CB Charles Woodson's rep says he has received an offer from the Denver Broncos. The rep also said Woodson is not considering retirement.

-- Donte Stallworth Cleared to Play Football --
Fri May 17, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports free-agent WR Donte Stallworth has received clearance for all football activities relating to his injuries from the hot air balloon incident. He should have a market for his services.

-- Raiders Invite Charles Woodson --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Oakland Raiders have invited free-agent DB Charles Woodson to visit them next week.

-- Dwight Freeney Leaves Chargers without Contract --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The San diego Union-Tribune reports free-agent DE Dwight Freeney left San Diego without having signed a contract, as LB Thomas Keiser was instead the one to ink a deal. Those two players are viewed internally as two separate situations, as the arrival of Keiser is considered to have no affect on the team's pursuit of Freeney. The 33-year-old's two-day visit ended Thursday, and those familiar with it describe it as having gone well. San Diego remains interested in adding Freeney to its outside linebacker corps.

-- Falcons Sign 7th-Rounder Kemal Ishmael --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports the Falcons have signed 7th-round draft pick FS Kemal Ishmael.

-- Chargers Sign Thomas Keiser --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the San Diego Chargers have signed free-agent LB Thomas Keiser.

-- Browns Re-Sign Brandon Jackson --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Cleveland Browns have re-signed free-agent RB Brandon Jackson to a one-year contract.

-- Jaguars Claim Kyle Love --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Jacksonville Jaguars have claimed DT Kyle Love off waivers from the New England Patriots.

-- Matt Bayley Wins 2012 FFWC $200K Fantasy Championship --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com would like to congratulate premium subscriber Matt Bayley on winning the 2012 Fantasy Football World Championships and the $200,000 that goes along with it. Matt's fantastic trio of wideouts including Chicago Bears WR Brandon Marshall, Atlanta Falcons WR Roddy White, and Denver Broncos WR Eric Decker carried his team to the big win!

-- Warrant Issued for Chad Johnson --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports a warrant has been issued for the arrest of former Miami Dolphins WR Chad Johnson in South Florida. The state attorney's office confirmed Thursday that a Broward circuit judge issued a warrant May 7 against Johnson for failing to report to his probation officer. Johnson received a year of probation last September after pleading no contest to a domestic violence charge involving his former wife, reality TV star Evelyn Lozada.

-- Doug Free Accepts Pay Cut --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports OT Doug Free has accepted a pay cut and will remain with the Dallas Cowboys, according to a source. Free was scheduled to make $7 million this season and count $10.02 million against the salary cap, but the new two-year deal opens up salary-cap room for the Cowboys and allows Free to remain with the team that drafted him in 2007. He will make $3.5 million in each of the next two seasons. His salary in 2013 is guaranteed.

-- Browns Sign Brian Hoyer --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Cleveland Browns have signed free-agent QB Brian Hoyer to a two-year contract.

-- Seahawks Sign 6th-Rounder Spencer Ware --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Seattle Seahawks have signed 6th-round draft pick RB Spencer Ware to a four-year contract.

-- Texans Sign 4th-Rounder Trevardo Williams --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Chronicle reports the Texans have signed 4th-round draft pick LB Trevardo Williams to a four-year contract.

-- Steve Smith Rags on Mark Sanchez --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Carolina Panthers WR Steve Smith told WFNZ Radio in Charlotte he would never allow QB Mark Sanchez be his quarterback. "He sucks," Smith stated in his typically blunt manner. "I wouldn’t let Mark Sanchez throw me a paper bag sandwich."

-- Giants Release Two --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Daily News reports the Giants have waived TE Michael Palmer injured and CB Antonio Dennard.

-- Cowboys Sign Anthony Hargrove --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Dallas Cowboys have signed free-agent DL Anthony Hargrove.

-- Randy Moss Mulling Future --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports free-agent WR Randy Moss still hasn't decided if he wants to play next season or not.

-- Play to Win $250,000 in the 2013 FFPC Main Event! --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Register today with a simple $200 deposit for the 2013 Fantasy Football Players Championship. The 2013 FFPC Grand Prize has increased to $250,000 with record individual league prizes of $11,000 each. Draft Live at Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas or draft online from the comfort of your home. For the 6th consecutive year, the FFPC is the only high stakes contest to place the entire prize pool in attorney escrow for the duration of the season. The FFPC continues to set the standard in lightning fast payouts - you will have your prize award within days of winning it!

-- Patriots to Kyle Love: Retire for a Year or Be Released --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports it’s becoming more clear that the New England Patriots cut DL Kyle Love for one reason. He has Type-2 diabetes. And while Love could, in theory, pursue legal claims against the team under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act or the Massachusetts equivalent, agent Richard Kopelman says that Love’s current focus is on getting healthy and finding a new NFL team. Though Kopelman hasn’t completely ruled out an eventual lawsuit, Kopelman explained that Love has no hard feelings against the team for doing what it believed it needed to do. From Love’s perspective, if the team doesn’t want him, then he needs to find one who does. What his most recent team did, per Kopelman, was offer Love two alternatives: retire for a year or be released. Though the Pats were willing to waive any ability to recover a portion of his signing bonus if he opted to retired, Love wants to play football. And so the choice became easy. He picked the path that gives him a chance to play. “We have every reason to believe Kyle is going to be well enough to play this year,” Kopelman said. “We’d rather be in position of having a chance to play this year versus not having a chance to play this year.” The period for claiming Love’s contract on waivers expires at 4:00 p.m. ET. If he’s not claimed, Love becomes a free agent. Kopelman also explained the communications that resulted in Love’s release. From the moment the team’s doctors made the diagnosis, the team adopted the “retire or be released” stance. Kopelman told the Patriots that “it’s far too early to make a decision as to whether [Love] can perform his job in September, or even July,” and that “all indications are that Kyle should be fine in a couple of weeks.” Still, the Patriots “reiterated it’s a medical issue and they don’t want to take a chance of Kyle not being healthy.”

-- Patriots Sign 3rd-Rounder Logan Ryan --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the New England Patriots have signed third-round draft pick CB Logan Ryan.

-- Giants Eyeing Charles Woodson --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the New York Giants are showing interest in veteran free-agent DB Charles Woodson.

-- Steelers Sign 4th-Rounder Shamarko Thomas --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed 4th-round draft pick S Shamarko Thomas to a four-year contract.

-- Redskins Sign 7th-Rounder Jawan Jamison --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Washington Redskins have signed 7th-round draft pick RB Jawan Jamison to a four-year contract.

-- Jaguars Release Montell Owens --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Jacksonville Jaguars have released FB Montell Owens.

-- Raiders Sign Chris Kluwe --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

Fox Sports reports the Oakland Raiders have signed free-agent P Chris Kluwe to a one-year, $840,000 contract.

-- Brandon Weeden Currently the Browns' Startting QB --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Cleveland Browns QB Brandon Weeden began OTAs as the clear starting quarterback for the team this week.

-- Vikings Move Joe Webb to WR --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Tribune reports the Minnesota Vikings have moved QB Joe Webb to wide receiver. "We had been talking about it for a while, and we made the decision that this was the way to go after we had our draft," HC Leslie Frazier said.

-- Working Doubletime to Help You Win! --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com Super Bowl premium package subscriber Frank Kendelson shares his thoughts on why Working Doubletime was a key factor for his fantasy title in 2011. Patrons considering a subscription should check out Frank's comments!

-- Mark Sanchez a Lock to Remain a Jet? --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports it appears that QB Mark Sanchez is now a lock to remain on the New York Jets' roster through the 2013 NFL season.

-- Bills Name Doug Whaley --
Thu May 16, 2013 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Buffalo Bills have named Doug Whaley general manager.

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