NFL REPORT Friday 12/23/05 - The Orange Mane

HEAV · 12-23-2005, 09:17 AM

FedEx has canceled a national television advertisement featuring injured Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper, citing his alleged involvement in an Oct. 6 boat party on Lake Minnetonka, according to the STAR TRIBUNE.Culpepper was charged last week with three misdemeanors for disorderly and lewd behavior while receiving a lap dance."Upon learning of the criminal charges, we pulled [the ad] immediately," FedEx spokesman Ryan Furby said. "That was the only deal we had with him. There is no ongoing relationship."Culpepper has refused comment. His attorney, Earl Gray, said Culpepper is innocent and will fight the charges.

The long and close friendship between Chiefs president Carl Peterson and his coach, Dick Vermeil, could soon be tested in a major way. Vermeil is expected to announce his retirement after the Chiefs' season is over. He's made it clear that he'd like to see the team's offensive coordinator, Al Saunders, replace him. But league sources say Peterson isn't as bullish on Saunders as Vermeil is. One name that is believed to be on Peterson's radar is USC coach Pete Carroll.

Falcons quarterback Michael Vick denied hanging up on the Tampa/St. Petersburg media in a conference call Wednesday, according to a Falcons spokesman. The St. Petersburg Times reported that after being questioned about his overall lack of success against the Buccaneers, Vick said, "You're still saying it's tough for me to handle that defense after what I did to them last time? Is that what you're saying? Is that what you're asking me? You're asking for an explanation for that? I can't. I'm sorry." Vick, who threw for over 300 yards against the Bucs in a 30-27 loss on Nov. 20, took another question and ended the conversation, the paper reported. According to a Falcons spokesman, who was recalling Vick's explanation, the connection cut off and the Buccaneers' media contact never called back to resume to interview.

Eric Moulds is definitely a fine receiver and would surely make Denver's offense better. But does that mean he's coming here, who knows? I am positive Denver will add to its receiver corps. But with two first-round picks, I do believe they'll draft a receiver. An established receiver like Moulds could cost a lot, and it all depends on what the Broncos want to do in free agency, whether they were to make a run at him.

There's a distinct chance starter Steve McNair might leave the Titans. "I want to be back here," McNair said. "That has to do with management. I don't get involved in that. If they decide to renegotiate my contract, that's fine. If not, we'll just have to work somewhere else." A possible destination could be Miami, a team hoping to improve the position.

If the Eagles are looking to add an interior pass-rusher in the offseason, one possibility is Cowboys defensive tackle La'Roi Glover. The 31-year-old Glover has become odd man out in Bill Parcells' 3-4 defense. He's scheduled to make $4.5 million next year, including a $1.5 million roster bonus that's due in March. The Cowboys are expected to release him.

I know that Brett Favre will be playing quarterback again for the Packers in 2006. I know this because this isn't the way Favre wants it to end. Not with a three-win team. Not with a league-high 24 interceptions. Not with a passer rating in the same low-rent neighborhood as Brooks Bollinger and Kyle Boller and Anthony Wright. Ten years from now, even 5 years from now, no one would remember how awful the 2005 Packers were or how poorly Favre played. No one except Favre. And he's the only one that matters.

Hollis Thomas wanted the Eagles to give him a raise to $1 million from his veteran minimum base salary of $665,000 for this season, but the team refused. Thomas' contract has escalator clauses based on playing time. If he is on the field for 50 percent of the team's defensive plays this season, his salary for next season will jump to $1 million from $670,000. A year ago, he was in for just 25 percent of the plays, missing the final three games with a dislocated elbow. According to a source close to the situation, Thomas has been on the field for 47 percent of the defensive plays this season. It will be interesting to see what the team does if he comes that close to reaching the 50 percent mark. Thomas declined to comment on the situation. "I just work here," he said.

The attorney for Minnesota Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper said Thursday that a crew member on a players' boat cruise admitted he had engaged in sexual activity with a woman, and the attorney questioned why that boat company employee wasn't charged while four Vikings on the cruise were. Attorney Earl Gray said he learned about the employee's activities on the Lake Minnetonka boat when he read the case documents from Hennepin County Sheriff's Office investigators. "Mr. Culpepper is charged with an offense that can't be proved and he will be found not guilty," Gray said. "The only reason he was charged is because of his name."

The Raiders worked out quarterbacks Rohan Davey and Casey Printers. It's not unusual for teams to work out players throughout the season. But why look at other quarterbacks with only two games remaining when rookie Andrew Walter, the No. 3 quarterback, has yet to take a snap? Walter has a groin-area injury but says he's healthy enough to play. It's possible the Raiders are already looking ahead to next season in anticipation of a shake-up at quarterback.

Where will the NFL coaching replacements come from this year? The Internet is filled with rumors touting the college ranks, from Southern Cal's Pete Carroll and UCLA'S Karl Dorrell to Iowa's Kirk Ferentz, Oklahoma's Bob Stoops and even former University of Colorado coach Rick Neuheisel, now the quarterbacks coach of the Baltimore Ravens. Then there are the recyclables, from former New York Giants coach Jim Fassel to Wade Phillips (New Orleans, Denver, Buffalo and Atlanta) to Steve Mariucci (San Francisco and Detroit) to others likely to soon be looking for work, including Mike Martz of the St. Louis Rams (on medical leave) and the Houston Texans' Dom Capers. Recently, teams have been turning to NFL assistants as popular possibilities. This year, that list includes Tim Lewis (New York Giants defensive coordinator), Al Saunders (Kansas City offensive coordinator), Mike Heimer-dinger (New York Jets offensive coordinator), Bob Bratkowski (Cincinnati offensive coordinator), Gregg Williams (Washington assistant head coach/defense), Paul Alexander (Cincinnati assistant head coach/offensive line) and Brad Childress (Philadelphia offensive coordinator). Whoever gets the call, rest assured another list will be out in August - one featuring the opening odds on who will be the first coach fired.

The subject of who is the better play caller hasn't been broached between Texans quarterback David Carr and offensive coordinator Joe Pendry this week. The mere suggestion made Carr laugh. Carr's teammates are still talking about his first half against the Arizona Cardinals, though, when Carr was given more liberties on offense to change the plays at the line of scrimmage. It wasn't completely different than in past games, but Carr never had spent such an extended amount of time at the line making decisions. Carr proved he could handle the task as he helped orchestrate a 24-point first half. Pendry took over calling the plays in the second half so he could manage the clock with the Texans holding the lead. The offense went on to score just six more points in the 30-19 victory. Carr said he has not pointed out to Pendry the 24-6 point differential in their halves.

Mike Martz visited Rams Park again Thursday, watching part of practice at the indoor facility. Vitt said the two talked briefly. "For about three minutes," Vitt reported. "He looks good. I was going to ask him how I looked." The Rams are 3-6 since Vitt took over for Martz, including five losses in their last six games.

Interim Rams head coach Joe Vitt is doing his best to disguise his quarterback intentions this week, but all signs point to Jamie Martin on Christmas Eve against the San Francisco 49ers. When asked Thursday if he had decided on his starting quarterback, Vitt said: "I have, but I'm not going to announce it." Maybe so, but it was Martin - and not Fitzpatrick - taking the reps with the starting unit in practice Thursday.

Jags RB Greg Jones was downgraded from probable to questionable with a neck injury Thursday, which likely means that veteran Fred Taylor will carry the running load Saturday against the Houston Texans. Jones suffered the injury in the San Francisco game last Sunday and hasn't practiced this week.

The Ravens-Green Bay Packers game delivered an 8.2 national rating, making it the second-lowest-rated game in Monday Night Football history. The lowest was last year's Tampa Bay Buccaneers-St. Louis Rams game, which drew a 7.7.

Rudi Johnson has rushed for more than 100 yards in three of the last four games and is 103 yards away from breaking his own franchise record for yards in a season. Johnson rushed for 1,454 yards in 2004 and was rewarded with a five-year, $26 million contract in the offseason. He's fifth in the league this season with 1,352 yards. He's also scored 12 TDs, including 10 in the last six games.

Free agent signing bonuses could be considerably smaller in '06. The reason: if the league and the union don't shake hands on a new contract extension by March 1, signing bonuses only will be able to be amortized over 4 years, rather than the usual six or seven.

Tiki Barber became the sixth player in NFL history to have two games in one season with 206 rushing yards on fewer than 30 carries. Four of the other five are enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton. The last back with two 206-yard games on fewer than 30 carries in one season was Barry Sanders in 1997. The only others to accomplish the feat in NFL history were Jim Brown in 1963, O.J. Simpson in 1973, Eric Dickerson in 1984 and the Rams’ Greg Bell in 1989.

With practice, meetings and film study filling the Cowboys' schedules, how do they get their Christmas shopping done? With an important game coming up, Parcells wants his players concentrating on beating the Carolina Panthers on Christmas Eve. "I don't have much concern about it," said Parcells, who did admit he does his own shopping. "I just run my normal schedule and they're gonna have to work around that." Some guys took advantage of the Internet, going online and having gifts delivered to their homes. Others rely on their wives to find all of the right gifts for the kids.

The Cowboys' playoff hopes are on the line Saturday at Carolina, but Bill Parcells hasn't felt the need to give any big speeches this week about the game's importance. "We've got great leaders on this team, veteran guys that have seen the ups and downs," safety Willie Pile said. "This game can humble you real quick, and that's what we got last week. You never can get too high and you never get too low. So we're not too low, and we've seen both sides of the spectrum." Parcells said he always speaks to players individually during practice, but he hasn't had any heart-to-hearts this week. "I don't have to do that," Parcells said. "They know what needs to be done pretty much I think."

Jets defensive coordinator Donnie Henderson has his unit playing well despite spending a lot of time on the field this season because of the offensive struggles. Somewhat surprisingly, the unit could finish in the top 10. The Jets rank 11th in the NFL in total defense, third against the pass but 28th against the run.

Jets DE Shaun Ellis and DT Dewayne Robertson didn't practice yesterday and won't play Monday night against the Patriots, The Star-Ledger has learned. Ellis has a hamstring injury and Robertson has a sore quad. In fact, the pair may be done for the season, sitting out the season finale Jan. 1 against the Bills at Giants Stadium. They also missed last week's game against the Dolphins. For Ellis, it would end a disappointing season. He has 48 tackles and just 2 1/2 sacks. In the previous two seasons, he had 23 1/2 sacks. Entering this season, he had missed only one career game.

More than two months after undergoing season-ending knee surgery, tight end Roland Williams was back at Rams Park. He brought with him his usual bubbly, upbeat attitude, plus a plea to disappointed Rams backers. "You fans that know the St. Louis Rams very well, you know how you can have a horrible season - a la 4-12 (in 1998) - and come back and have a great one," he said, referring to the Super Bowl championship the following season. "So I would recommend to all the real St. Louis fans, don't jump off the bandwagon yet, put away the .45, hold on and wait for things to change."

Gregg Williams, Redskins assistant head coach-defense, said that linebacker LaVar Arrington (thigh) practiced well yesterday and is expected to play tomorrow, while cornerback Shawn Springs (knee, back) did not practice but also will play.

Osi Umenyiora's much-traveled childhood took him to many outposts. England. Nigeria. But it was in Auburn, Ala., of all places, where his future was formed thanks to the diligent prodding of a pair of fellow students who persuaded him to try something new after his sophomore year of high school. If not for those efforts, Umenyiora probably would not have tried football and become one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL for the New York Giants this season. And had one of those students, a senior named Marcus Washington, kept quiet, perhaps his current teammates on the Washington Redskins, especially quarterback Mark Brunell, would have a much easier day when the teams meet Saturday at FedEx Field.

The BCS bowls already have stirred a little friendly competition in the Steelers' locker room. For the USC-Texas Rose Bowl to determine the national championship, USC alumni Troy Polamalu made a friendly wager with NT Casey Hampton, a Texas product. "We're not releasing that information to anyone. It's top secret," Hampton said. "But, after the game, you'll know who won because of what they have." Asked if he was certain his two-time champion Trojans would repeat, Polamalu replied, "No, not really. But I hope so."

A constant with the Titans, Steve McNair might not be retained by the team after this season -- a scenario that could lead the 32-year-old to play for the Dolphins. If McNair is still on that roster March 2, he can enjoy a $50 million bonus from the Titans.

Paladin · 12-23-2005, 09:39 AM

50 freaking million? I would imagine that boy would be walking even if he was healthy.

I am sure that some other body part for Culpepper was named, not just his given name....

Among the recycled names: Haslett when he leaves NO.

Fassel and Kubes are not mentioned among the "eligibles?"

Gotta love the Broncos' situation. I hear there are no big time WRs in this years' draft. WR is still a large Broncos desire along with a speed rusher. So, what to do?

Interesting stuff all around.

BMF Bronco · 12-23-2005, 09:46 AM

Eric friggin Moulds would be a GREAT add!

Odysseus · 12-23-2005, 09:53 AM

Thanks Heav.

Atlas · 12-23-2005, 12:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paladin

50 freaking million? I would imagine that boy would be walking even if he was healthy.

I am sure that some other body part for Culpepper was named, not just his given name....

Among the recycled names: Haslett when he leaves NO.

Fassel and Kubes are not mentioned among the "eligibles?"

Gotta love the Broncos' situation. I hear there are no big time WRs in this years' draft. WR is still a large Broncos desire along with a speed rusher. So, what to do?

Interesting stuff all around.

When your drafting in the lower half a bigtime WR won't last that long anyway.

Here are the top 5 WRs

Name College Height Weight 40-Time
1. Santonio Holmes Ohio St. 5-11 185 n/a
2. Chad Jackson Florida 6-1 205 n/a
3. Derek Hagan Arizona St. 6-2 202 4.54
4. Jason Hill Washington St. 6-1 210 n/a
5. Martin Nance Miami (OH) 6-5 210 4.50

Holmes probably won't last to Denver's spot but I have seen a Mock draft that had the Broncos selecting Chad Jackson. He has the size and speed Shanny likes. Plus he is from Florida where Shanny used to coach.

Chad Jackson
Pros: crisp route runner, sure handed WR, good size and speed; great all-around WR, can be a threat in the vertical passing game (22.3 yards per catch in his sophomore year) or be a moving the chains guy, has been the 'safety valve' of star QB Chris Leak
Cons: Has only 1 full year as a starter under his belt, needs some refining in his techniques, specially getting away from defenders in the first 5 yards

Broncoman13 · 12-23-2005, 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Atlas

When your drafting in the lower half a bigtime WR won't last that long anyway.

Here are the top 5 WRs

Name College Height Weight 40-Time
1. Santonio Holmes Ohio St. 5-11 185 n/a
2. Chad Jackson Florida 6-1 205 n/a
3. Derek Hagan Arizona St. 6-2 202 4.54
4. Jason Hill Washington St. 6-1 210 n/a
5. Martin Nance Miami (OH) 6-5 210 4.50

Holmes probably won't last to Denver's spot but I have seen a Mock draft that had the Broncos selecting Chad Jackson. He has the size and speed Shanny likes. Plus he is from Florida where Shanny used to coach.

Chad Jackson
Pros: crisp route runner, sure handed WR, good size and speed; great all-around WR, can be a threat in the vertical passing game (22.3 yards per catch in his sophomore year) or be a moving the chains guy, has been the 'safety valve' of star QB Chris Leak
Cons: Has only 1 full year as a starter under his belt, needs some refining in his techniques, specially getting away from defenders in the first 5 yards

Taking WR's from the Gators just scares me. I'd rather have Hagan. Dude catches almost everything thrown his way. He very good size and has been productive for 3 years now.

Chupacabra · 12-23-2005, 12:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Atlas

When your drafting in the lower half a bigtime WR won't last that long anyway.

Here are the top 5 WRs

Name College Height Weight 40-Time
1. Santonio Holmes Ohio St. 5-11 185 n/a
2. Chad Jackson Florida 6-1 205 n/a
3. Derek Hagan Arizona St. 6-2 202 4.54
4. Jason Hill Washington St. 6-1 210 n/a
5. Martin Nance Miami (OH) 6-5 210 4.50

Holmes probably won't last to Denver's spot but I have seen a Mock draft that had the Broncos selecting Chad Jackson. He has the size and speed Shanny likes. Plus he is from Florida where Shanny used to coach.

Chad Jackson
Pros: crisp route runner, sure handed WR, good size and speed; great all-around WR, can be a threat in the vertical passing game (22.3 yards per catch in his sophomore year) or be a moving the chains guy, has been the 'safety valve' of star QB Chris Leak
Cons: Has only 1 full year as a starter under his belt, needs some refining in his techniques, specially getting away from defenders in the first 5 yards

Sinorice Moss could end up being a 1st round pick.
I don't like any of the WRs in this draft. I say trade for Moulds......you can't draft an immediate impact player like him.

Broncoman13 · 12-23-2005, 12:33 PM

Not sure you'd have to trade for Moulds. Still, he's not really a long term solution type player. I think he brings the same thing to the table as Rod to be honest. If we're going to bring in a very similar player we might as well go young and have him around for 5 or more years. Moulds is what 31 or 32?

SAGE · 12-23-2005, 12:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Atlas

When your drafting in the lower half a bigtime WR won't last that long anyway.

Here are the top 5 WRs

Name College Height Weight 40-Time
1. Santonio Holmes Ohio St. 5-11 185 n/a
2. Chad Jackson Florida 6-1 205 n/a
3. Derek Hagan Arizona St. 6-2 202 4.54
4. Jason Hill Washington St. 6-1 210 n/a
5. Martin Nance Miami (OH) 6-5 210 4.50

Holmes probably won't last to Denver's spot but I have seen a Mock draft that had the Broncos selecting Chad Jackson. He has the size and speed Shanny likes. Plus he is from Florida where Shanny used to coach.

Chad Jackson
Pros: crisp route runner, sure handed WR, good size and speed; great all-around WR, can be a threat in the vertical passing game (22.3 yards per catch in his sophomore year) or be a moving the chains guy, has been the 'safety valve' of star QB Chris Leak
Cons: Has only 1 full year as a starter under his belt, needs some refining in his techniques, specially getting away from defenders in the first 5 yards

Do we really need any more "Projects" at WR?
We already have Devoe, Adams and Watts.
I need an already developed stud (Moulds), I'm tired of this Potential BS with these WR's.
I want someone that opposing coaches will Fear and GamePlan for.
Enough with the Rooks!!

Atlas · 12-23-2005, 12:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OSKIE

Taking WR's from the Gators just scares me. I'd rather have Hagan. Dude catches almost everything thrown his way. He very good size and has been productive for 3 years now.

I agree I would never take a WR from florida or a CB from Nebraska. But you never know he might be great. I think maybe that was more so under Spurrier though.

elsid13 · 12-23-2005, 12:49 PM

Personnel I would like to take Nance in the 3rd

The Big E · 12-23-2005, 01:05 PM

Pete Carroll to KC? They might want him, but I can't see him leaving SC for that job, or any other NFL job. Maybe someday he'll go back to the NFL, but not there, and not now.

Hagan would be a solid WR choice, although he's not a field stretcher. He is polished, has decent size and speed, and very good hands. He has the Pac 10 receiving records for receptions and yards, I believe, which is pretty good in a pass-happy conference.

I also heard that Steve Smith from USC may be coming out early. I'm not sure where he'd rank, but I've heard scouts rank Jarrett of USC as the one with the star potential, not Smith.

The Fade should start Walter. He fits Al's long ball style and has his head on straight. He probably won't get a chance in Oakland until he gets a rap sheet going and goes through at least one rehab.

Thanks, HEAV, I really appreciate your NFL reports.

HEAV · 12-23-2005, 07:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chupacabra

Sinorice Moss could end up being a 1st round pick.
I don't like any of the WRs in this draft. I say trade for Moulds......you can't draft an immediate impact player like him.

Now understand I'm a Cane fan. So I'm prone to liking players from the U. Portis, DJ, McGahee, hell even Melvin Bratton (89-90).

Sinorice is fast. But the kid is barely 5-8. He's not the prototypical NFL wideout. Not to mention he lacks the ability to block down field.

Rumor has Nance,from Miami Ohio, running a 4.45-4.47. That will have to be seen at the combine. But the kid could be good one.

12-23-2005, 09:17 AM	#1
HEAV Ring of Famer It's about the Team Join Date: May 2003 Location: The Ville Posts: 12,077 Adopt-a-Bronco: Brian Dawkins	NFL REPORT Friday 12/23/05 FedEx has canceled a national television advertisement featuring injured Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper, citing his alleged involvement in an Oct. 6 boat party on Lake Minnetonka, according to the STAR TRIBUNE.Culpepper was charged last week with three misdemeanors for disorderly and lewd behavior while receiving a lap dance."Upon learning of the criminal charges, we pulled [the ad] immediately," FedEx spokesman Ryan Furby said. "That was the only deal we had with him. There is no ongoing relationship."Culpepper has refused comment. His attorney, Earl Gray, said Culpepper is innocent and will fight the charges. The long and close friendship between Chiefs president Carl Peterson and his coach, Dick Vermeil, could soon be tested in a major way. Vermeil is expected to announce his retirement after the Chiefs' season is over. He's made it clear that he'd like to see the team's offensive coordinator, Al Saunders, replace him. But league sources say Peterson isn't as bullish on Saunders as Vermeil is. One name that is believed to be on Peterson's radar is USC coach Pete Carroll. Falcons quarterback Michael Vick denied hanging up on the Tampa/St. Petersburg media in a conference call Wednesday, according to a Falcons spokesman. The St. Petersburg Times reported that after being questioned about his overall lack of success against the Buccaneers, Vick said, "You're still saying it's tough for me to handle that defense after what I did to them last time? Is that what you're saying? Is that what you're asking me? You're asking for an explanation for that? I can't. I'm sorry." Vick, who threw for over 300 yards against the Bucs in a 30-27 loss on Nov. 20, took another question and ended the conversation, the paper reported. According to a Falcons spokesman, who was recalling Vick's explanation, the connection cut off and the Buccaneers' media contact never called back to resume to interview. Eric Moulds is definitely a fine receiver and would surely make Denver's offense better. But does that mean he's coming here, who knows? I am positive Denver will add to its receiver corps. But with two first-round picks, I do believe they'll draft a receiver. An established receiver like Moulds could cost a lot, and it all depends on what the Broncos want to do in free agency, whether they were to make a run at him. There's a distinct chance starter Steve McNair might leave the Titans. "I want to be back here," McNair said. "That has to do with management. I don't get involved in that. If they decide to renegotiate my contract, that's fine. If not, we'll just have to work somewhere else." A possible destination could be Miami, a team hoping to improve the position. If the Eagles are looking to add an interior pass-rusher in the offseason, one possibility is Cowboys defensive tackle La'Roi Glover. The 31-year-old Glover has become odd man out in Bill Parcells' 3-4 defense. He's scheduled to make $4.5 million next year, including a $1.5 million roster bonus that's due in March. The Cowboys are expected to release him. I know that Brett Favre will be playing quarterback again for the Packers in 2006. I know this because this isn't the way Favre wants it to end. Not with a three-win team. Not with a league-high 24 interceptions. Not with a passer rating in the same low-rent neighborhood as Brooks Bollinger and Kyle Boller and Anthony Wright. Ten years from now, even 5 years from now, no one would remember how awful the 2005 Packers were or how poorly Favre played. No one except Favre. And he's the only one that matters. Hollis Thomas wanted the Eagles to give him a raise to $1 million from his veteran minimum base salary of $665,000 for this season, but the team refused. Thomas' contract has escalator clauses based on playing time. If he is on the field for 50 percent of the team's defensive plays this season, his salary for next season will jump to $1 million from $670,000. A year ago, he was in for just 25 percent of the plays, missing the final three games with a dislocated elbow. According to a source close to the situation, Thomas has been on the field for 47 percent of the defensive plays this season. It will be interesting to see what the team does if he comes that close to reaching the 50 percent mark. Thomas declined to comment on the situation. "I just work here," he said. The attorney for Minnesota Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper said Thursday that a crew member on a players' boat cruise admitted he had engaged in sexual activity with a woman, and the attorney questioned why that boat company employee wasn't charged while four Vikings on the cruise were. Attorney Earl Gray said he learned about the employee's activities on the Lake Minnetonka boat when he read the case documents from Hennepin County Sheriff's Office investigators. "Mr. Culpepper is charged with an offense that can't be proved and he will be found not guilty," Gray said. "The only reason he was charged is because of his name." The Raiders worked out quarterbacks Rohan Davey and Casey Printers. It's not unusual for teams to work out players throughout the season. But why look at other quarterbacks with only two games remaining when rookie Andrew Walter, the No. 3 quarterback, has yet to take a snap? Walter has a groin-area injury but says he's healthy enough to play. It's possible the Raiders are already looking ahead to next season in anticipation of a shake-up at quarterback. Where will the NFL coaching replacements come from this year? The Internet is filled with rumors touting the college ranks, from Southern Cal's Pete Carroll and UCLA'S Karl Dorrell to Iowa's Kirk Ferentz, Oklahoma's Bob Stoops and even former University of Colorado coach Rick Neuheisel, now the quarterbacks coach of the Baltimore Ravens. Then there are the recyclables, from former New York Giants coach Jim Fassel to Wade Phillips (New Orleans, Denver, Buffalo and Atlanta) to Steve Mariucci (San Francisco and Detroit) to others likely to soon be looking for work, including Mike Martz of the St. Louis Rams (on medical leave) and the Houston Texans' Dom Capers. Recently, teams have been turning to NFL assistants as popular possibilities. This year, that list includes Tim Lewis (New York Giants defensive coordinator), Al Saunders (Kansas City offensive coordinator), Mike Heimer-dinger (New York Jets offensive coordinator), Bob Bratkowski (Cincinnati offensive coordinator), Gregg Williams (Washington assistant head coach/defense), Paul Alexander (Cincinnati assistant head coach/offensive line) and Brad Childress (Philadelphia offensive coordinator). Whoever gets the call, rest assured another list will be out in August - one featuring the opening odds on who will be the first coach fired. The subject of who is the better play caller hasn't been broached between Texans quarterback David Carr and offensive coordinator Joe Pendry this week. The mere suggestion made Carr laugh. Carr's teammates are still talking about his first half against the Arizona Cardinals, though, when Carr was given more liberties on offense to change the plays at the line of scrimmage. It wasn't completely different than in past games, but Carr never had spent such an extended amount of time at the line making decisions. Carr proved he could handle the task as he helped orchestrate a 24-point first half. Pendry took over calling the plays in the second half so he could manage the clock with the Texans holding the lead. The offense went on to score just six more points in the 30-19 victory. Carr said he has not pointed out to Pendry the 24-6 point differential in their halves. Mike Martz visited Rams Park again Thursday, watching part of practice at the indoor facility. Vitt said the two talked briefly. "For about three minutes," Vitt reported. "He looks good. I was going to ask him how I looked." The Rams are 3-6 since Vitt took over for Martz, including five losses in their last six games. Interim Rams head coach Joe Vitt is doing his best to disguise his quarterback intentions this week, but all signs point to Jamie Martin on Christmas Eve against the San Francisco 49ers. When asked Thursday if he had decided on his starting quarterback, Vitt said: "I have, but I'm not going to announce it." Maybe so, but it was Martin - and not Fitzpatrick - taking the reps with the starting unit in practice Thursday. Jags RB Greg Jones was downgraded from probable to questionable with a neck injury Thursday, which likely means that veteran Fred Taylor will carry the running load Saturday against the Houston Texans. Jones suffered the injury in the San Francisco game last Sunday and hasn't practiced this week. The Ravens-Green Bay Packers game delivered an 8.2 national rating, making it the second-lowest-rated game in Monday Night Football history. The lowest was last year's Tampa Bay Buccaneers-St. Louis Rams game, which drew a 7.7. Rudi Johnson has rushed for more than 100 yards in three of the last four games and is 103 yards away from breaking his own franchise record for yards in a season. Johnson rushed for 1,454 yards in 2004 and was rewarded with a five-year, $26 million contract in the offseason. He's fifth in the league this season with 1,352 yards. He's also scored 12 TDs, including 10 in the last six games. Free agent signing bonuses could be considerably smaller in '06. The reason: if the league and the union don't shake hands on a new contract extension by March 1, signing bonuses only will be able to be amortized over 4 years, rather than the usual six or seven. Tiki Barber became the sixth player in NFL history to have two games in one season with 206 rushing yards on fewer than 30 carries. Four of the other five are enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton. The last back with two 206-yard games on fewer than 30 carries in one season was Barry Sanders in 1997. The only others to accomplish the feat in NFL history were Jim Brown in 1963, O.J. Simpson in 1973, Eric Dickerson in 1984 and the Rams’ Greg Bell in 1989. With practice, meetings and film study filling the Cowboys' schedules, how do they get their Christmas shopping done? With an important game coming up, Parcells wants his players concentrating on beating the Carolina Panthers on Christmas Eve. "I don't have much concern about it," said Parcells, who did admit he does his own shopping. "I just run my normal schedule and they're gonna have to work around that." Some guys took advantage of the Internet, going online and having gifts delivered to their homes. Others rely on their wives to find all of the right gifts for the kids. The Cowboys' playoff hopes are on the line Saturday at Carolina, but Bill Parcells hasn't felt the need to give any big speeches this week about the game's importance. "We've got great leaders on this team, veteran guys that have seen the ups and downs," safety Willie Pile said. "This game can humble you real quick, and that's what we got last week. You never can get too high and you never get too low. So we're not too low, and we've seen both sides of the spectrum." Parcells said he always speaks to players individually during practice, but he hasn't had any heart-to-hearts this week. "I don't have to do that," Parcells said. "They know what needs to be done pretty much I think." Jets defensive coordinator Donnie Henderson has his unit playing well despite spending a lot of time on the field this season because of the offensive struggles. Somewhat surprisingly, the unit could finish in the top 10. The Jets rank 11th in the NFL in total defense, third against the pass but 28th against the run. Jets DE Shaun Ellis and DT Dewayne Robertson didn't practice yesterday and won't play Monday night against the Patriots, The Star-Ledger has learned. Ellis has a hamstring injury and Robertson has a sore quad. In fact, the pair may be done for the season, sitting out the season finale Jan. 1 against the Bills at Giants Stadium. They also missed last week's game against the Dolphins. For Ellis, it would end a disappointing season. He has 48 tackles and just 2 1/2 sacks. In the previous two seasons, he had 23 1/2 sacks. Entering this season, he had missed only one career game. More than two months after undergoing season-ending knee surgery, tight end Roland Williams was back at Rams Park. He brought with him his usual bubbly, upbeat attitude, plus a plea to disappointed Rams backers. "You fans that know the St. Louis Rams very well, you know how you can have a horrible season - a la 4-12 (in 1998) - and come back and have a great one," he said, referring to the Super Bowl championship the following season. "So I would recommend to all the real St. Louis fans, don't jump off the bandwagon yet, put away the .45, hold on and wait for things to change." Gregg Williams, Redskins assistant head coach-defense, said that linebacker LaVar Arrington (thigh) practiced well yesterday and is expected to play tomorrow, while cornerback Shawn Springs (knee, back) did not practice but also will play. Osi Umenyiora's much-traveled childhood took him to many outposts. England. Nigeria. But it was in Auburn, Ala., of all places, where his future was formed thanks to the diligent prodding of a pair of fellow students who persuaded him to try something new after his sophomore year of high school. If not for those efforts, Umenyiora probably would not have tried football and become one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL for the New York Giants this season. And had one of those students, a senior named Marcus Washington, kept quiet, perhaps his current teammates on the Washington Redskins, especially quarterback Mark Brunell, would have a much easier day when the teams meet Saturday at FedEx Field. The BCS bowls already have stirred a little friendly competition in the Steelers' locker room. For the USC-Texas Rose Bowl to determine the national championship, USC alumni Troy Polamalu made a friendly wager with NT Casey Hampton, a Texas product. "We're not releasing that information to anyone. It's top secret," Hampton said. "But, after the game, you'll know who won because of what they have." Asked if he was certain his two-time champion Trojans would repeat, Polamalu replied, "No, not really. But I hope so." A constant with the Titans, Steve McNair might not be retained by the team after this season -- a scenario that could lead the 32-year-old to play for the Dolphins. If McNair is still on that roster March 2, he can enjoy a $50 million bonus from the Titans.

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12-23-2005, 09:39 AM	#2
Paladin Ring of Famer Join Date: Sep 2004 Posts: 9,149	50 freaking million? I would imagine that boy would be walking even if he was healthy. I am sure that some other body part for Culpepper was named, not just his given name.... Among the recycled names: Haslett when he leaves NO. Fassel and Kubes are not mentioned among the "eligibles?" Gotta love the Broncos' situation. I hear there are no big time WRs in this years' draft. WR is still a large Broncos desire along with a speed rusher. So, what to do? Interesting stuff all around.

12-23-2005, 09:46 AM	#3
BMF Bronco Offseason sucks... Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Bozeman, MT Posts: 11,724 Adopt-a-Bronco: ME	Eric friggin Moulds would be a GREAT add!

12-23-2005, 09:53 AM	#4
Odysseus Fan of the home team Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Durango, Colorado Posts: 12,107 Adopt-a-Bronco: Mark Schlereth	Thanks Heav.

12-23-2005, 12:33 PM	#8
Broncoman13 Broncoholic JT #80 Join Date: May 2001 Location: Colorado Posts: 16,961 Adopt-a-Bronco: Orange Julius	Not sure you'd have to trade for Moulds. Still, he's not really a long term solution type player. I think he brings the same thing to the table as Rod to be honest. If we're going to bring in a very similar player we might as well go young and have him around for 5 or more years. Moulds is what 31 or 32?

12-23-2005, 12:49 PM	#11
elsid13 Lost In Space Bóg, Honor, Ojczyzna Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: DC Posts: 19,080	Personnel I would like to take Nance in the 3rd

12-23-2005, 01:05 PM	#12
The Big E Ring of Famer Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Hermosa Beach Posts: 1,910	Pete Carroll to KC? They might want him, but I can't see him leaving SC for that job, or any other NFL job. Maybe someday he'll go back to the NFL, but not there, and not now. Hagan would be a solid WR choice, although he's not a field stretcher. He is polished, has decent size and speed, and very good hands. He has the Pac 10 receiving records for receptions and yards, I believe, which is pretty good in a pass-happy conference. I also heard that Steve Smith from USC may be coming out early. I'm not sure where he'd rank, but I've heard scouts rank Jarrett of USC as the one with the star potential, not Smith. The Fade should start Walter. He fits Al's long ball style and has his head on straight. He probably won't get a chance in Oakland until he gets a rap sheet going and goes through at least one rehab. Thanks, HEAV, I really appreciate your NFL reports.