OAK - Raiders QB Russell Talks Still Stalled

Source: David White, San Francisco Chronicle

Despite the Detroit Lions coming to terms with 2nd overall pick WR Calvin Johnson, the Oakland Raiders are no closer to a deal with their number 1 overall pick, quarterback JaMarcus Russell, then they were before camp started. If one side concedes significant ground this weekend, a deal could be done quickly enough to get Russell in practice as soon as Monday. Raiders HC Lane Kiffin, for one, isn't sure Johnson's deal will have an immediate impact on the Russell talks. "Sometimes it does," Kiffin said after a morning practice Friday. "If he signs for a lot, then it works for one side. If he doesn't, it works for the other side. That does somewhat have to do with it, but it's just another contract being posted."

SF - QB Smith Expects To Run More In 2007

Source: Matthew Barrows, Sacramento Bee

San Francisco 49ers starting QB Alex Smith says he wants to be an even more dangerous rusher in 2007. He ran for only 147 yards last year but put up 631 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns in his final season at Utah. "You look at what Steve Young did when he was here," Smith said. "There were two or three times in a game when he was able to take off and run. Those were big plays."

And although Michael Vick-like numbers are unrealistic in the 49ers' offense, the idea is to keep defenses on their heels by breaking off a long run here and there. "That's what it's all about," new offensive coordinator Jim Hostler said. "Five or six times a game, he's going to have to come alive with his feet. He's going to have to come out of the pocket and make a play running or by finding a receiver downfield after a scramble. And that's five or six (times) guaranteed. "Last year, it was one or two here and there." The question then is: When the pocket is breaking down and Smith buys himself an extra second, does he look for an open receiver like he did against the Rams, or does he take off and run like Young did so well when he was the 49ers' quarterback? Said Hostler with a wide grin on his face: "I don't know. That's why we pay him all that money."

ARZ - Cardinals RB James Committed

Source: Dan Bickley, Arizona Republic

Arizona Cardinals running back Edgerrin James is so enthused by the new coaching regime, he promised to carry the ball a little more during the preseason. New HC Ken Whisenhunt and Assistant HC Russ Grim have committed to running the football and have promised to get James 300 carries this season. James, who notoriously hates the preseason said, "If (Whisenhunt) wants me to go out there and get five, six carries, I'm not going to say no. If they want me to do it just to save face, so there's no complaining, I'll do it."

DEN - RB Travis Henry Wants The Ball Often

Source: Jeff Legwold, Rocky Mountain News

Denver Broncos new RB Travis Henry doesn't want to just embrace the idea of being the guy. He wants to grab it and lug it as many times as Shanahan lets him. "Me, personally, I'm from the old school," Henry said. "From watching Emmitt Smith, Barry Sanders, Walter Payton, all those guys, it was one back. That's it. One guy got the ball. It's good to have the backup in case something goes wrong, but as far as rotating during the game, that takes away from a premier back trying to get in a rhythm. So, a two-back rotation? I guess I don't see it."

DEN - QB Cutler Talks About Expectations For Team And Himself

Source: Mike Klis, Denver Post

The Denver Broncos have serious Super Bowl aspirations but can 2nd-year QB Jay Cutler overcome that pressure and perform well with his limited experience. Winning a Super Bowl with a second-year pro quarterback has happened twice in the past six years but having such lofty goals must get heavy at times for a youngster who has yet to hear his first boo. "Yeah, I've heard if I play well, the team's going to do well, and if I play badly, the team's going to do badly. How I go is how the team goes," Cutler said. "I think that's a little ridiculous. I mean, I don't think I have to throw for 300 yards every game for us to win football games. I need to manage the game and limit turnovers. I think our running game and our defense will be enough for us to put up enough points."

It's Cutler's calm and confident disposition - whether in moments of crisis between the lines or casual encounters along the sidewalk - that has the Broncos believing he can live through the mistakes, and perhaps the occasional boos, and bounce back to become the third second- year pro quarterback in history to win a Super Bowl. "This team definitely has Super Bowl talent," Cutler said. "I think we're in a good position to have a good record, get in the playoffs and then see what happens. As far as how I'm taking things, I'm taking it in stride. This team could have a great year, we could have a bad year. I can't tell the future. All I can do is prepare as hard as I can to have the best season possible. There's a lot of guys here who are going to help me." One area that's often overlooked is starting field position. After ranking last in the NFL in that category last season, the Broncos brought in a new coach (Scott O'Brien), a new punter (Todd Sauerbrun) and will break in a new returner (Domenik Hixon).

DEF - MIA - Dolphins Won't Punish LB Porter

Source: David J. Neal, Miami Herald

The Dolphins won't punish LB Joey Porter for his Las Vegas altercation after the NFL fined him $141,176. "I'm not condoning what happened. Joey Porter was issued a citation. He paid a fine," Cameron said. "He has followed through with everything he's supposed to do as relates to this matter as a professional. He's been fined and it's over. I think he's learned from it."

ARZ - Cardinals RB James Committed

Source: Dan Bickley, Arizona Republic

Arizona Cardinals running back Edgerrin James is so enthused by the new coaching regime, he promised to carry the ball a little more during the preseason. New HC Ken Whisenhunt and Assistant HC Russ Grim have committed to running the football and have promised to get James 300 carries this season. James, who notoriously hates the preseason said, "If (Whisenhunt) wants me to go out there and get five, six carries, I'm not going to say no. If they want me to do it just to save face, so there's no complaining, I'll do it."

TB - Bucs QB Plummer To Former Coach: 'I'm Done'

Source: Rick Stroud, St. Petersburg Times

According to QB Jake Plummer's high school coach, Steve Vogel, Plummer said that he really is retiring. "They don't believe me down there (in Tampa), but I'm done," Plummer told Vogel. The Buccaneers are still hopeful that Plummer will join the competition that is currently being led by 37-year old QB Jeff Garcia. "We traded for him (Plummer) with the intent of him playing for the Buccaneers," Tampa Bay GM Bruce Allen said.

ATL - Nike Suspends Release Of New Vick Shoe

Source: AP

Michael Vick's legal troubles prompted Nike today to suspend the release of its latest product line named after the Atlanta Falcons quarterback.

Nike has told retailers it will not release a fifth signature shoe, the Air Zoom Vick V, this summer. Nike spokesman Dean Stoyer said the four shoe products and three shirts that currently bear Vick's name will remain in stores. A statement released by Nike said the company "is concerned by the serious and highly disturbing allegations made against Michael Vick, and we consider any cruelty to animals inhumane and abhorrent. We do believe that Michael Vick should be afforded the same due process as any citizen; therefore, we have not terminated our relationship."

TB - QB Culpepper Meets With Buccaneers

Source: Rick Stroud, St. Petersburg Times

Several member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' brass reportedly met Thursday with free agent quarterback Daunte Culpepper. The meeting took place at the corporate airplane hangar at Tampa International Airport. Also greeting Culpepper were GM Bruce Allen and Doug Williams, the team's senior pro personnel assistant.

DET - Lions Rookie WR Johnson Remains Unsigned

With only a week before training camp, No. 2 overall draft pick WR Calvin Johnson remains unsigned by the Detroit Lions. Johnson's agent Bus Cook and Lions Chief Operating Officer Tom Lewand initially spoke Monday. But as is typically the case with early draft picks, they will try and wait until another draft pick in front or behind them is signed. Raiders top pick QB Jarcus Russell's negotiations are reportedly going slowly.

DET - Lions Rookie WR Johnson Remains Unsigned

With only a week before training camp, No. 2 overall draft pick WR Calvin Johnson remains unsigned by the Detroit Lions. Johnson's agent Bus Cook and Lions Chief Operating Officer Tom Lewand initially spoke Monday. But as is typically the case with early draft picks, they will try and wait until another draft pick in front or behind them is signed. Raiders top pick QB Jarcus Russell's negotiations are reportedly going slowly.

ATL - Can Falcons QB Vick Expect Suspension From NFL?

Source: Jason Cole, Yahoo! Sports

According to Jason Cole at Yahoo! Sports, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick can expect to face a suspension from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell as the result of his indictment in connection with dog fighting in Virginia. "Where (Vick) is in the most trouble is that he lied to the commissioner," an anonymous league source said. "He told (Goodell) in April that he didn't know anything about this. The commissioner gave (Vick) every chance to come clean, be straight about what was going on. Instead, he just kept denying it."

MIA - Dolphins Release QB Culpepper

Source: Shandel Richardson, Sun-Sentinel.com

On Tuesday, the Dolphins released a one-sentence statement, announcing it had terminated Daunte Culpepper's contract, and offered no further comment. An arbitration hearing scheduled for today in South Florida was canceled.

Culpepper said his attorneys alerted him of the news Monday night. "As I was going through this process, I heard about a quote by Gandhi that best expresses my thoughts about this victory," Culpepper said in an e-mailed statement. "He said, 'First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win.'." Tension arose when the Dolphins traded for quarterback Trent Green in June. Culpepper asked for a release and refused to renegotiate his contact to make him easier to trade, which the Dolphins have tried to do the past several weeks. After Culpepper was told he would not receive any repetitions in team drills, he walked out of a minicamp practice a few days after the trade. Then the NFL Players' Association filed a grievance on Culpepper's behalf, claiming the Dolphins were denying him the chance to compete.

ATL QB Vick Indicted In Dogfight Investigation

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/football/2020AP_FBN_Vick_Indictment.html

Clipped from the AP story by Hank Kurz, Jr.: Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael
Vick was indicted Tuesday by a federal grand jury on charges related to illegal
dogfighting.

Vick and three others are charged with competitive dogfighting, procuring and
training pit bulls for fighting and conducting the enterprise across state lines.
The dogfighting operation was named "Bad Newz Kennels," according to the indictment,
and the dogs were housed, trained and fought at a Surry County, Va., property owned
by Vick.

The indictment alleges that the 27-year-old Vick and his co-defendants began a
grisly dogfighting operation in early 2001 in which dogs fought to the death - or
close. Losing dogs were sometimes killed by electrocution, drowning, hanging or
gunshots.

If convicted, Vick and the others - Purnell A. Peace, Quanis L. Phillips and Tony
Taylor - could face up to six years in prison, $350,000 in fines and restitution.

TB - QB Garcia Looks Like A Lock

Source: Rick Stroud, St. Petersburg Times

For the next six months or so, quarterback Jeff Garcia and coach Jon Gruden will be inseparable. They will share more than initials. In fact, their futures will be intertwined.

It's the 37-year-old quarterback with his fourth job in as many years and the coach trying desperately to hold onto one. If you think another player has a chance to win a starting job under center in training camp, which begins July 26, think again. "I love Garcia," Gruden said recently. "I like what he's doing a lot. I just think he's got some traits we haven't had around here - his mobility, his experience." Those are exactly the two traits Gruden values the most in a quarterback. Garcia will be the eighth starting quarterback since Gruden arrived in Tampa Bay in 2002, but he is the only one who brings both qualities to the party. Brad Johnson had the experience and used it to get the ball out of his hand quickly, but he moved like he was in quicksand. Bruce Gradkowski made some plays with his feet but was green as grass. Chris Simms had some of both but not enough of either trait.

NYG - Giants Instruct HC Coughlin To Change Ways

Source: Paul Schwartz, New York Post

New York Giants HC Tom Coughlin was told by ownership to change his demeanor and communicate better with his players. Giants ownership is not demanding a kinder and gentler Tom Coughlin, but it stipulates a more reasonable Tom Coughlin. The man in charge does not have to be revered, but the acrimony leveled at Coughlin down the stretch of last season did no one any good. The perception of Coughlin was as a beleaguered captain at the helm of a ship gone adrift, complete with the requisite mutinous crew. "I think there's no question I can improve," Coughlin admitted. "I'm going to try to be more patient."

SF - 49ers Backup QB Dilfer Wants More Playing Time

Source: Dennis Georgatos, Santa Cruz Sentinel

While starting QB Alex Smith became the first 49ers quarterback to take every offensive snap in a season last year, Trent Dilfer didn't play at all, and the team's veteran backup says he hopes to play more in upcoming exhibitions to help ensure his readiness this season. "I'm just going to express that I would like to play a little more in the preseason, just to make sure I'm sharp. In my opinion, it's in the best interest of the football team that I'm on my 'A' game come opening day and something were to happen to Alex", Dilfer said.

KC - Price Goes Up For RB Johnson

Source: Jason Whitlock, Kansas City Star

The record contract the Colts handed defensive end Dwight Freeney late last week is yet another new wrinkle in the Larry Johnson-Chiefs contract saga.

Freeney's $72 million deal, which includes $30 million in bonuses and $37.5 million over the first three years, raised the roof on all future contract demands across the league. The Colts treated Freeney, the game's second-best defensive end after Julius Peppers, like a quarterback. And by doing so, the Colts hammered the point that you can't compare 2007 contracts by the standards established under the old collective-bargaining agreement. The franchise-tag value for defensive ends had been around $8.6 million. Once Peppers inks a new deal, an agreement that should surpass Freeney's, the franchise number for pass rushers will begin to approach $10 million. My point in bringing this up is it is being made abundantly clear that the deal that LaDainian Tomlinson, the league's best running back, signed in 2004 is obsolete when talking about Larry Johnson's value in today's market. If the Chargers signed LT today, he would garner a $30 million signing bonus and $36 million over the first three years of the contract.

DEF - DET - Lions DT Rogers Cleared Of Charges

Source: Detroit Free Press

No criminal charges will be issued against Detroit Lions defensive tackle Shaun Rogers in connection with allegations made last month by a woman that he had sexually assaulted her. Wayne County Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy said today that the decision was made following an investigation conducted over several weeks by the Detroit Police Department and her office.

DEF - IND - Colts DE Freeney Signs Six-Year Deal

Source: John Clayton, ESPN.com

Indianapolis Colts DE Dwight Freeney signed a six-year, $72 million contract with the team Friday that includes a $30 million signing bonus. He becomes the highest paid defensive player in NFL history. Freeney was designated as the team's franchise player and had only a few days remaining to get a long-term deal done. "To have me paid among the top players in the league -- not just as a defensive players -- means a lot of me," said Freeney, who flew to Indianapolis on Thursday night in anticipation of accepting the deal. "[Colts general manager] Bill Polian is the one who drafted me. I was hand-picked by him. He was going to do the right thing for the organization."

NE - QB Testaverde Will Be With Patriots

Source: Mike Reiss, Boston Globe

Here is some of the Q&A from Vinny Testaverde from his interview on Sporting News radio today. The 43-year-old Testaverde was a guest on Tony Bruno's show.

Q: We saw you talking with Chiefs coach Herman Edwards. Are you going to be back in the NFL, joining the Kansas City Chiefs? A: "You guys are right, I'll be back in the NFL but it won't be with the Chiefs. I'll actually be playing for the Patriots again this year." Q: Has that been announced? AL "No, after two-a-days are over [in training camp] I'll go back and sign my contract. I'll wait until then."

CHI - Bears TE Clark, Olsen To Share Time

Source: Larry Mayer, ChicagoBears.com

Chicago TE Coach Rob Boras said that veteran TE Desmond Clark and rookie TE Greg Olsen will split time and see the field together as training camp approaches in an effort to create mismatches to opposing defenses. Clark is coming off a career year with 626 receiving yards and six touchdowns. Olsen was the Bears top pick in the 2007 draft.

BUF - Bills HC Jauron Talks About Using Several RBs

Source: Chris Brown, BuffaloBills.com

Buffalo HC Dick Jauron maintained his stance on preferring a committee approach to the Bills running back situation. The team drafted Marshawn Lynch in the first round and Dwayne Wright in the fourth in the 2007 and added free agent Josh Scobey to go along with veterans Anthony Thomas, Fred Jackson and Shaud Williams. "We'd like to have two or three guys that perform well enough that you'll rotate them and keep them healthy," Jauron said, who later left the window open. "If you have one that's just so good then he's got to get the bulk of the work because it's in the best interest of your team to get that guy the ball more than the other ones." It is widely speculated that Lynch could be that player who separates himself from the pack.

JAX - Rookie WR Walker Flying Under The Radar

Source: Carl Kotala, Florida Today

Fans packed the bleachers to get a look at a trimmer Byron Leftwich and the rest of the Jacksonville Jaguars on Saturday.

But it wasn't long before it became evident the star of the team's first offseason minicamp was rookie wide receiver Mike Walker, who was catching everything in sight. That certainly caught the attention of head coach Jack Del Rio, who was drawn to watch the former UCF standout during team drills. "Certainly, he looks like a guy, as we saw on tape, (who) is a poised, competitive athlete and is strong going after the ball," Del Rio said. "He runs well. He's a good route runner. Right now, he's trying to figure out where he belongs so he will improve. But it was a good, solid start for him." The 6-foot-1, 209-pound receiver was a third-round pick by the Jaguars. He ranks fourth in Golden Knights history with 184 receptions and his 2,555 receiving yards are third in the record books. He is coming off a breakout senior season, which may have been somewhat unexpected because he missed the final two games of 2005 with a torn left ACL. "I felt good out there," Walker said Saturday. "My knee felt pretty good. It was my first day without my knee brace and I just felt great. I'm just getting used to the system."

DEN - 'Person Of Interest' In Fatal Shooting Of DB Williams In Custody

Source: AP

A man police consider a person of interest in the fatal shooting of Denver Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams was transferred to federal custody Thursday after completion of his state sentence on a parole violation.

Willie Clark, 25, was sentenced in February to 180 days in prison after authorities said Clark had been living in a different house than the one listed in his parole agreement. Colorado Department of Corrections spokeswoman Kathrine Sanguinetti said records indicated he was released Thursday on parole, but later learned he had been transferred to federal custody. Jeff Dorschner, spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office, said he could not comment. Denver police spokesman John White said the arrest was unrelated to the homicide investigation. Clark has been in custody since Jan. 5, days after Williams, 24, was shot in the neck and two other people were wounded as they were riding away from a New Year's Eve party at a Denver nightclub in a stretch Hummer limousine. Police have said they hoped Clark could provide information to help find Williams' killer. They said his name came up in the investigation but declined to give specifics.

DEF - TEN - Titans CB Jones May Have Plea Deal In Tennessee Revoked

Source: NFL.com

Tennessee Titans cornerback Pacman Jones may have a plea agreement reached with a Tennessee court revoked, depending upon what happens related to the two felony charges he is facing in Las Vegas. "Being indicted on felony charges in another state does not constitute good conduct," Rutherford County (Tennessee) assistant district attorney Thomas Parkerson said.

DEF - DEN - Broncos DE Peterson Suspended Four Games

Source: USA Today

Denver Broncos defensive end Kenny Peterson has been suspended without pay for violating the NFL's steroid policy. The Broncos released an NFL statement saying Peterson will be suspended without pay for the first four games of 2007 starting Aug. 31. The statement said Peterson had violated the policy on anabolic steroids and related substances, but did not specify what he had done.

Peterson was cut by Green Bay last September and signed with the Broncos to replace Courtney Brown, who had to undergo a left knee operation five weeks into the season.

DEF - NO - LB Dhani Jones Signs With Saints

Source: Jeff Duncan, New Orleans Times-Picayune

Adding depth to their linebacking corps, the New Orleans Saints signed free agent Dhani Jones to a one-year contract on Thursday. Jones is expected to backup incumbent starter Scott Fujita on the strong side. The seven-year veteran had been released by the Philadelphia Eagles in April.

STL - Rams Have Little Choice In Re-Signing QB Bulger

Source: Jeff Gordon, STLtoday.com

St. Louis Rams QB Marc Bulger is about to play into the final year of his four-year, $19.1 million contract, and the Rams' front office has a decision to make regarding an extension. Pat Kirwan of NFL.com recently suggested "Tom Brady money". "Marc Bulger passed for over 4,300 yards last season to go along with 24 touchdowns and only eight interceptions," Kirwan wrote. "That's the same number of touchdowns as Brady, with four fewer picks." Good point, and a fine place to start for Bulger's agent.

ATL - Federal Agents Searching QB Vick's Property Again

Source: WAVY.com

Virginia television station WAVY TV 10 has learned federal agents are searching the Surry County property owned by NFL quarterback Michael Vick...again. Sources said the agents were looking for more animal remains buried on the property. "More animal remains"? This is significant in that it has yet to be reported that "any" animal remains have been found, though it has been heavily rumored.

The AP obtained documents Friday after they were filed in U.S. District Court in Richmond. The documents reportedly say that dog fights have been sponsored by "Bad Newz Kennels" at the property since at least 2002. It says participants and dogs traveled from South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland, New York, Texas and other states for the events AP reports the documents state that members of the venture also knowingly transported, delivered and received dogs for animal fighting. The filings say the property was the ...quote... "main staging area for housing and training the pit bulls involved in the dog fighting venture."

TE Olsen Wowing Teammates

Source: Larry Mayer, Chicagobears.com

Greg Olsen made a catch that had to be seen to be believed during the Bears' final OTA practice Wednesday, reaching high to pluck a seemingly overthrown pass out of the air with one hand.

While offensive teammates hooted and hollered—Devin Hester did a somersault in excitement—Olsen jogged back to the huddle for the next snap without showing a hint of emotion. The rookie tight end later shrugged with humility when a reporter asked about the play. "I don't know," he said. "It was kind of just a reaction." A tight end that not only can but expects to make big plays should provide a big boost to the Bears offense this season, and Olsen made major strides during the team's offseason program. "These last [13 OTA] practices have really done a lot," said the first-round draft pick from Miami. "They've been huge, just getting used to how everything goes. "I feel like I've gotten better over the last [13] practices and [will] just continue to work hard and prepare myself for the season throughout training camp."

Bears Release DT Johnson

Source: Brian Hamilton, Chicago Tribune

The Chicago Bears are through with DT Tank Johnson as the waived him on Monday. Already suspended by the NFL for the first eight games of the 2007 season for violating the league's personal conduct policy, Johnson was pulled over and arrested by police in Gilbert, Ariz., at 3:30 a.m. Friday and was issued a citation for "being impaired to the slightest degree." "We are upset and embarrassed by Tank's actions last week," Bears general manager Jerry Angelo said in a statement posted on the team's Web site. "He compromised the credibility of our organization. We made it clear to him that he had no room for error. Our goal was to help someone through a difficult period in his life, but the effort needs to come from both sides. It didn't, and we have decided to move on."

QB Ramsey Fitting In Well

Source: Andrew Mason, DenverBroncos.com

For quarterback Patrick Ramsey, the learning has rarely ceased during a pro career that enters its sixth season this year. The Broncos are his third team in that span, but the offensive system used by the team is the fourth scheme he's absorbed.

As a rookie in 2002, Ramsey immersed himself in Steve Spurrier's scheme with the Washington Redskins. Two years later, Joe Gibbs replaced Spurrier in Washington, forcing him to dive into offense No. 2. A 2006 move from the Redskins to the New York Jets gave him a third system to learn. But the Broncos' scheme might be the best one for a skill set that was formulated in a prolific spread offense at Tulane University during three seasons as a starter from 1999 through 2001. "It's difficult, but this one (Denver's offense) is making sense to me, it really is," Ramsey said. "It's something that I feel like I'm gathering and I'm coming on a little faster in this offense than I have in others." "I understand the investment they have in Jay (Cutler)," Ramsey said. "It's obvious." Where Cutler is now, Ramsey was four years ago with the Redskins. "It's a little bit different role," Ramsey said. "He's telling me various things about the offense and I'm telling him various things I've gathered here and there. We've got a real good relationship."

LB Arrington In 'Great Spirits' After Crash

Source: ESPN.com

Three-time Pro Bowl linebacker LaVar Arrington will remain in the hospital at least a few more days as he recovers from arm and leg injuries from a motorcycle accident earlier this week.

Arrington broke his right forearm and had severe lacerations in his leg after crashing on a highway ramp Monday. "He's in great spirits," said Arrington's attorney, Rosalyn Pugh, who visited Arrington on Thursday. "He's his usual charming self with the smile." Pugh said Arrington expects to be released from Prince George's Hospital Center sometime next week.

RB Johnson Compared To Other RBs With 400 Carry Seasons

Source: Jason Cole, Yahoo! Sports

Take a quick look at the four backs to carry 400-plus times before Larry Johnson.

In 1984, James Wilder of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers carried 407 times to set the NFL mark at the time. He had a respectable 1,300 yards the next season, but his stats declined in every other significant category, such as yards per carry. In 1986, Eric Dickerson had 404 carries. Dickerson, who was a physical marvel over his first six seasons, held up surprisingly well. He was traded the middle of the following season to the Indianapolis Colts and took advantage of a strike-shortened season to get some extra rest. Between 1987 and 1988, Dickerson averaged more than 100 yards per game. That makes him the exception among these four. In 1998, Jamal Anderson had a record 410 carries as he helped the Atlanta Falcons reach the Super Bowl. In 1999, he tore up his knee. He had only more season with 1,000 yards and was done by 2001. In 2000, Eddie George of the Tennessee Titans had 403 carries in the fifth of his first five outstanding seasons. During that run, George averaged 1,375 yards per season. However, in his final four years, his best season total was 1,165 yards in 2002.

Titans CB Jones Surrenders, Released On Bond

Source: Associated Press, via LowellSun.com

Suspended NFL player Adam "Pacman" Jones surrendered to authorities in Nevada early Friday and was released after posting $20,000 bond on felony charges in a strip club melee that preceded a triple shooting. Jones was booked into the Clark County Detention Center early Friday and released about an hour later, a jail operator said. The Tennessean reported Jones posted $10,000 bond for each charge of felony coercion.

Golf Tournament Featuring Michael Vick Rescheduled

Source: CBS Sportsline.com

A charity golf tournament featuring Michael Vick, intended in part to raise scholarships in memory of Virginia Tech's shooting victims, was rescheduled for September.

The tournament at Kingsmill Resort & Spa had been set to begin Friday, and a reason for the change was not announced. A telephone call by the Associated Press to a charitable foundation affiliated with the Atlanta Falcons quarterback was not immediately returned Friday. The tournament is the latest in a series of Virginia appearances either canceled or delayed since Vick's name surfaced in a dogfighting investigation.

QB George Waiting For Call

Source: NFL Network

Free agent QB Jeff George was a guest on the NFL Network on Thursday and said that he is still interested in playing football. George is 39 years old and is staying in shape with the hopes that a team will call.

Vikings Stadium Could Cost $1 Billion

Source: Paul Levy & Mark Brunswick, Minneapolis Star Tribune

The projected cost of a new Vikings stadium is expected to flirt with $1 billion if the Legislature does not approve the project in the 2008 session. The Vikings are hoping to open their new stadium by 2012.

Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller predicted Thursday "there will be a very serious and hopefully fruitful discussion about what would be the public participation" in a new Vikings stadium. But he offered no hint at a timetable. "I think the Vikings are a valuable asset to the state, and I think the general thing is we need a way to get these important projects done," said Pogemiller, DFL-Minneapolis. "I don't know what the possibilities are. No local unit of government by itself would be able to handle this type of project."

DE Taylor Questioning QB Green's Health

Source: Harvey Fialkov, South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Dolphins DE Jason Taylor, reigning NFL defensive player of the year, is quoted in this week's Sports Illustrated as saying he doesn't have confidence in QB Trent Green's ability to take a hit after missing eight games last season from a serious concussion. Taylor is quoted as saying about Green: "This is off the record?oh, what the hell, it's on the record: He'd better not get hit. One big hit, and he could be scrambled eggs."

49ers Goal: 25 Touches For RB Gore

Source: Kevin Lynch, San Francisco Chronicle

Updating previous reports, 49ers head coach Mike Nolan may have backed off his desire to lightly limit RB Frank Gore's touches-per-game. He said yesterday that he would like to get Gore 25 a game, which would come to 400 (including receptions) over a 16-game season.

Chiefs RB Johnson Prepared For Holdout

Source: Jason Whitlock, Kansas City Star

Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson said he is prepared to sit out training camp in an effort to secure a lucrative contract extension from the team.

"He's going to test me," Johnson said of team president Carl Peterson. He was asked, "Do you think you will have to hold out?" "I've talked with Herm (Edwards) about it," Johnson replied. "Herm said he doesn't even know the money I'm asking for. He said he doesn't really care. He said I've done a lot in terms of OTAs (organized team activities) and minicamp to buy into the program. He said he'll talk with Carl and those things will get handled. It all depends on how the upstairs people play it." "I'm prepared," Johnson said matter-of-factly. "They (my agent and father) got me saving money, ...to make sure that if it goes down like that, then I've got to be able to pace myself so I won't be in trouble." Johnson is scheduled to make $1.7 million this season and it is believed he is seeking a contract that falls between the deals given LaDainian Tomlinson ($21 million in guarantees) and Peyton Manning ($35 million in guarantees.)

Ravens RB McGahee Alone In Backfield

Source: Mike Duffy, BaltimoreRavens.com

Baltimore Ravens OC Rick Neuheisel will adjust a bit from the team's typical power running style to one built more around recent acquisition RB Willis McGahee. McGahee's speed will enable the Ravens to run more one-back sets. "With McGahee, we'll probably be more in one-back [formation]," Neuheisel said. "He's more of a draw runner, outside, zone runner, able to use his speed. Our personnel will adapt to the style of the runner. We'll have a chance to be more explosive and get four receivers down the field fast."

QB Young Says CB Jones Doesn't Care About Them

Source: CBS Sportsline

If Vince Young is any indication, cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones may have used up the patience of his Tennessee Titans teammates.

Young was asked during a minicamp session Thursday if he was concerned about Jones, who's been told to turn himself in to Las Vegas authorities to face two felony charges. "We love him a whole lot, but we feel like he don't care about us right now," Young said.

NFL Network's Bryant Gumbel Says Gene Upshaw Is League 'Embarrassment'

Source: Neil Best, Newsday.com

Bryant Gumbel on HBO's "Real Sports" show had some choice words for NFLPA Union Leader Gene Upshaw:

"Finally tonight a few words about that popular new game: all pile on the Upshaw. The Upshaw is of course, Gene Upshaw, the titular head of the NFL Players Association who has become, with good reason, the sports world's most popular piñata. "Rarely a day goes by now when you can't find Upshaw's name in your local newspaper, generally being verbally assailed by folks with legitimate grievances. A number of ex-NFL players find him cruel and callous, a variety of folks are taking exception to his definition of disability, medical people are questioning his seeming lack of regard for player safety, some veterans have filed suit claiming he's denied them millions in licensing fees. Congress, too, wants some answers up on Capitol Hill. "Now instead of being professional, Upshaw, in response to all this has adopted the turtle defense, choosing to explain himself to no one. At a time when NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is rightly using an iron fist to upgrade the image of active players, the players' union boss has become the league's biggest embarrassment, even stooping to physical threats against one of his critics. "As one whose low opinion of Gene Upshaw is a matter of record, I can't say I'm surprised. History suggests you can only deceive so many for so long. One can only wonder when the active players will join the growing chorus of those crying out for new leadership. It is, after all, their union. It'd be nice to see them reclaim it before they become ex-players, and find out the hard way why so many are so outraged."

Titans QB Young, CB Hope Miss Practice

Source: Jessica Hopp, Nashville Tennessean

For the second consecutive day Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young missed part of practice with a "mild" calf strain. On Wednesday Young participated in individual warm-up and 7-on-7 drills before HC Jeff Fisher pulled him out. Said Fisher, "(Young) was not happy about not being able to finish practice, but we are just trying to be smart about it." Fisher added, "If we were playing Sunday he'd play. It's not an issue."

Cornerback Chris Hope was also held out for the second day in a row with a hip flexor strain.

Mike & Mike To Head 2nd Monday Night Football Team

Source: Michael McCarthy, USA Today

ESPN is set to unveil a second Monday Night Football announcing team today: play-by-play Mike Greenberg, analysts Mike Golic and Mike Ditka and sideline reporter Bonnie Bernstein.

The new team will make their MNF debut during the Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers game on Sept. 10, says ESPN's Norby Williamson, executive vice president for remote and studio production. The game will be the nightcap in a national NFL doubleheader on ESPN and will kick off at 10:15 p.m. ET. ESPN's main MNF team of play-by-play Mike Tirico, analysts Tony Kornheiser and Ron Jaworski and sideline reporters Suzy Kolber and Michele Tafoya will do the first game, the Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals, at 7 p.m. ET. ESPN says the second team will only work the one regular-season game while the main team will work all 16 regular-season and four preseason games.

Chiefs QB Croyle Making Statement

Source: Adam Teicher, Kansas City Star

The quarterback competition in Kansas City is by definition "open", but the momentum is swinging heavily in second year QB Brodie Croyle's favor. Croyle got nearly all of the first team snaps during yesterday's practice and he's been increasingly impressing HC Herm Edwards with his precision and decision making. Edwards remained diplomatic, however. "He's progressing," Edwards said. "We've put him in a lot of situations in practice — blitz periods, red zone, third downs. Now he's going to have to do that in competition with Damon."

"I'm feeling more and more comfortable and more and more confident and getting used to where my receivers are going to be," Croyle said. "I've gotten a lot better since day one."

Titans CB Jones Charged In Las Vegas Shooting

Source: Yahoo - Ticker

According to KLAS-TV in Las Vegas, charges have been filed against three people, including Tennessee Titans cornerback Pacman Jones, in a February shooting at a Las Vegas strip club. Jones is charged with two counts of felony coercion.

Jones faces up to 12 years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted of each charge. According to police, the incident at Minxx started when two dancers - one allegedly a friend of Jones - were showered with hundreds of dollars in bills. Jones allegedly grabbed the hair of one of the dancers and punched her two or three times in the face, police said. Aaron Cudworth, a bouncer at the club, interceded and attempted to escort Jones out the door. But Jones jumped back onto the stage and allegedly threatened to kill the bouncer. "Matter of fact, all yous are gonna get it," Jones said, according to the police report. Jones then allegedly took a swing at Cudworth, who put him in an arm bar. Jones responded by allegedly biting the bouncer on the ankle.

Titans QB Young Misses Practice With Tight Calf

Source: Jessica Hopp, Nashville Tennessean

Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young missed the team's afternoon practice session with what is being called a mild tightening of his calf muscle. The injury is not considered serious. "Coach kicked me (out)," Young said. "He told me to chill out for the rest of the day."

Nike Rebuffs Humane Society - Will Keep Vick

Source: CBS Sporstsline

Nike has no plans to dump Michael Vick from its roster of celebrity athletes, turning aside a request from the national Humane Society to cut ties with the Atlanta Falcons quarterback over alleged ties to dogfighting.

Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States, on Tuesday released a letter that he sent to the apparel giant. "We trust that Nike does not want to be associated with any celebrity who is linked to this odious form of animal cruelty," Pacelle wrote. Nike spokesman Dean Stoyer said the company planned to honor its lucrative deal with Vick, who worked with the company to design a line of athletic shoes and has been used prominently in advertising campaigns. "There is no change in the status of the agreement between Nike and football player Michael Vick," Stoyer said. "He is rightfully presumed innocent and afforded the same due process as any citizen, rather than be tried in the court of public opinion. Nike will continue to monitor the situation, but has nothing further to say at this time."

Indiana Coach Terry Hoeppner Dead - Roethlisberger Remembers

Source: AP

Indiana football coach Terry Hoeppner died today of complications from a brain tumor. He was 59.

Hoeppner, who had two brain surgeries in the past 18 months, spent the last four months on medical leave. He died at 6:50 a.m. at Bloomington Hospital with his family at his side, school spokesman J.D. Campbell said. "Coach Hoeppner has inspired me to be who I am today," said Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, whom Hoeppner coached at Miami (Ohio). "He has been a second father, a teacher and a friend. He believed in me and I owe everything to him for where I am in life. I hold the deepest love and respect for him, his wife Jane and their family. He has been a role model for so many young men. I aspire to be as honorable and touch as many lives as Coach Hep. I will miss him more than words can describe."

CB Smoot Content With Role

Source: David Elfin, Washington Times

Washington Redskins CB Fred Smoot is looking to redeem himself this season in his return. "I want to prove to people that I'm the same Fred Smoot who left here," he said. "Some people doubt I'm a good corner anymore. I like being doubted." Shawn Springs and Carlos Rogers are expected to remain the starting corners with Smoot the nickel back. However, Smoot is too happy to be with the Redskins again to complain about being a backup. "I'll play my role," he said. "This is home. This is where I want to be. I can see living here for a long time after I'm done with football."

LB Arrington Suffers Multiple Injuries

Source: ESPN

Earlier Monday former New York Giants and Washington Redskins LB LaVar Arrington lost control of his motorcycle and hit a guardrail, according to the Maryland State Police. Authorities haven't determined how fast Arrington was going when the accident occurred. Arrington's agent, Carl Poston, indicated that LaVar had suffered a broken bone in his arm, three broken bones in his leg, as well as various cuts and bruises. Arrington, who was wearing a helmet, was issued two citations; one for operating the motorcycle without a proper license and another for the crash.

CB Jones Questioned About Entourage's Involvement In Shooting

Source: AP

Suspended NFL player Adam "Pacman" Jones was being sought by police for questioning about a shooting early Monday involving members of his entourage after a fight at an Atlanta strip club.

Jones, his group and three other people got into a fight, apparently over a woman, at a club around 4 a.m., officer Ariel Toledo said. After everyone involved left the strip club -- the three people in one car, and Jones and his entourage in three other cars _ someone in Jones' group shot at the car, and the others returned fire, Toledo said. Toledo said Jones was not present when the shots were fired. "We believe he knows some of his entourage who were involved in the shooting," Toledo said. "On himself, we do not have any charges on him. He wasn't there when the shooting occurred." Manny Arora, Jones' attorney, said he expects Jones will give the police whatever help he can. "I've got to sit down with him and sit down with the police and figure out what we're looking at or if in fact he can even help them," Arora said. "Once we agree to do that, I will do it very privately and we'll take care of it."

Titans Sign RB Chris Brown

Source: Teresa M. Walker, AP

Chris Brown, the running back who lost his starting job to Travis Henry last season, has agreed to a one-year deal bringing him back to the Tennessee Titans.

Brown, who found himself on the bench watching Henry rush for 1,211 yards in 2006, spent the offseason visiting with other teams and had narrowed his choices down to his hometown Chicago Bears and Tennessee. Agent Ryan Morgan said the Titans offer an opportunity. "I wouldn't have necessarily predicted this when the free agency period started," agent Ryan Morgan said Monday. "But we're constantly evaluating things. It really comes down to opportunity, and we're hoping Chris can go in there and compete and contribute." The deal includes performance incentives for the four-year veteran who has 2,295 yards rushing in his career, 10th all-time in team history. He was a third-round draft pick out of Colorado in 2003.

LB Arrington injured in motorcycle accident

It's very early and details are sketchy but WTOP is reporting some bad news about
LB LaVar Arrington.

Link: http://www.wtop.com/?nid=25&sid=1169764

Clipped from the wtop.com article:

WASHINGTON - LaVar Arrington, a former member of the Washington Redskins and New
York Giants, has been seriously hurt in a motorcycle crash Monday afternoon.

Prince George's County Fire tells WTOP that Arrington is in serious condition
after the crash near Route 50 and the Beltway.

NFL Calendar Dates

Source: Yahoo

Aug. 4 -- Pro Football Hall of Fame inductions, Canton, Ohio.

Aug. 5 -- Hall of Fame Game, Canton, Ohio (New Orleans vs. Pittsburgh).

Aug. 28 -- Roster cutdown to 75 players.

Sept. 1 -- Roster cutdown to 53 players.

Sept. 6 -- Regular season opener.

Jacobs Ready To Replace Barber

Source: Charlotte Observer News Services

During two seasons with the New York Giants, running primarily in short-yardage and goal-line situations, Jacobs became a fan favorite because of his powerful running style. Listed at 6-foot-4, 264 pounds, Jacobs is built more like a linebacker than a running back, and defenders attempting to tackle him have often found themselves overpowered. Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora admitted that he has avoided tackling Jacobs during practice.

"Jacobs is bigger than I am, I don't want to tackle that guy," Umenyiora said. "I guess you try to take his legs up from under him. But a lot of teams are going to be in a lot of trouble when that guy starts coming downhill."

Browns Thrilled With RB Lewis

Source: Terry Pluto, Akron Beacon Journal

The Browns were thrilled with the early look at Jamal Lewis, who has taken part in more drills than anticipated. He had surgery to remove bone spurs from an ankle, and he feels better than at any time last season, he has said.

Lewis is only 27. He has a lot of miles on his legs and has been knocked around, but he rushed for 1,122 yards last season with that painful bone spur. He has lost about 10 pounds to 248, and might drop a few more before training camp to help his speed. As Savage said, ``I've got a very good feeling about Jamal. He is hungry and has something to prove. He wants people to see that he has a lot left, and he's very happy here.''

Coach Del Rio Optimistic - WRs In Question

Source: Vito Stellino, Florida Times Union

Coach Jack Del Rio said the team's two major free-agent acquisitions, offensive tackle Tony Pashos and wide receiver Dennis Northcutt, both performed well during the workouts.

"Dennis Northcutt was brought in here to fill a role (slot receiver), and he's exactly what we thought we were getting. Tony Pashos was brought in here to fill a role (right tackle). We think he's exactly what we thought we were getting,'' Del Rio said. Among the other players Del Rio mentioned in a positive light were wide receiver Ernest Wilford, cornerback Dee Webb, defensive end James Wyche and tight end Greg Estandia. Conversely, wide receivers Reggie Williams and Matt Jones, first-round picks in 2004 and 2005, respectively, were hurt much of the offseason and are under pressure to stay healthy and perform well in camp if they're to make the team. Teams tend to be patient with players drafted high, but Del Rio said: "There is no question that at some point there has to be production.'' Del Rio knows that with or without Williams and Jones, the passing game, ranked 24th in the league last year, is the team's biggest question mark. "I think the area that has been most scrutinized, I guess because it lagged [behind] the other areas of our football team, is the passing game,'' he said. "I feel confident based on what I've seen and the steps that we have taken that we will be an improved offense. We're going to throw it and catch it better.''

QB McNabb Ahead Of Schedule

Source: Associated Press

Eagles QB Donovan McNabb completed his first week of practice, working in non-contact and team passing drills during the final minicamp. McNabb wasn't expected to do more than individual drills at this point. "He looks very good, has worked very hard to get himself to this position and is progressing a little bit ahead of schedule of what we anticipated," HC Andy Reid said. McNabb felt no swelling nor discomfort in his knee while working with the team and spent virtually the entire final day on the field.

QB Romo - Extention Talk

Source: Len Pasquarelli, ESPN.com

It's clear Tony Romo would prefer to solidify his future. And the Cowboys, who have no viable alternatives, appear willing to cast their lot with the four-year veteran. He is the quarterback the Cowboys groomed for the future. But the future is now, and it's time to pay the guy who will probably be the Dallas starter for the next several years.

"I'd definitely like [an extension] before the season begins, but you never know how things will go," Romo told the Dallas Morning News this week. "I know the Jones family. They knew me. We'll come to a conclusion."

RB Portis Gets Some Work

Source: Gary Fitzgerald, Redskins.com

Redskins RB Clinton Portis, still nursing knee tendonitis and a shoulder injury, was able to participate in some drills and team work during Redskins mini-camp on Friday. He started the practice running sprints on the sidelines, then asked coaches if he could increase his workload. Portis ended up getting a handful of carries during the 11-on-11 drills. "Clinton did a lot more today--I think he's close now," said HC Joe Gibbs. Portis said after practice that his knee held up well during Friday's practice and his shoulder is close to fully healed.

QB Pennington Looking Sharp

Source: Eric Allen, NewYorkJets.com

Jets QB Chad Pennington has looked very sharp in minicamp. He has been working the entire off-season on body strength, flexibility and his familiarity with the Jets’ offensive system. "He had a really good off-season not just in terms of what he’s done here at OTAs but the work he’s done in the weight room and on his body and being able to really focus on that," HC Eric Mangini said. "On the field you can see him drawing on the experiences of last year, him taking things and advancing the system — not just from his position but collectively."

RB Droughns May See Time At FB

Source: Tom Canavan, Associated Press

With FB Jim Finn out for the season, the Giants are trying free agent Robert Douglas at fullback. RB Reuben Droughns could be used at fullback in some scenarios, even though he doesn't like the position. If neither scenario works out and the Giants can't sign a fullback, they would be forced to either use two tight ends or play TE Mike Matthews, a good blocker, as an H-back.

WRs Henry And McNeil Cleared In Assault Case

Source: Jim Hannah, Cincinnati Enquirer

Bengals WRs Chris Henry and Reggie McNeal were cleared Friday of any involvement in a roadside assault that left a teenage boy with a black eye last week. Investigators have identified two 21-year-old Florence residents as suspects. Police Capt. Linny Cloyd refused to release the suspects' names. The Bengals had little to say about the matter Friday.

WR Holt On The Mend

Source: Jim Thomas, St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Rams WR Torry Holt underwent surgery in February for a torn meniscus cartilage in his right knee. The Rams' full-squad minicamp marked his first extensive work on the practice field since the surgery. "For the most part, things are on schedule," Holt said. "I've got one more month to heal up and really strengthen it before we start training camp. So I'm going to try to take full advantage of it. I still have some soreness on the inside where I had the meniscus cleaned up," Holt said. "But that's going to be there. It's just a matter of me getting more reps and running more, and reintroducing the knee to those types of cuts that I'm used to doing.

"I'm just trying to refocus on what's important, and that's football — trying to help this football team and this organization win some more championships," Holt said. "I'm just kind of taking a step back from the 'quote-unquote' limelight, and really putting a great deal of emphasis on football."

Browns QB Situation Foggy

Source: Patrick McManamon, Akron Beacon Journal

Browns QB Charlie Frye seems to be trying too hard and Brady Quinn has struggled, while Derek Anderson has stood tall in the pocket and gotten rid of the ball. Anderson seems most comfortable in the system put in by new OC Rob Chudzinski. "He's in the competition," HC Romeo Crennel said of Anderson. "We'll see how it plays out." Crennel indicated that when training camp opens, Frye, Anderson, Quinn and Ken Dorsey will continue to share time.

Redskins Want To Sign TE Cooley Long-Term

Source: Jason La Confora, Washington Post

Washington Redskins HC Joe Gibbs was asked today about initial talks with TE Chris Cooley on an extension. Gibbs said he "would love" to have Cooley signed long-term by training camp and the team will work hard to get that done. They have only had some preliminary discussions.

Jags WR Starting Spots Wide-Open

Source: Vito Stellino, Florida Times-Union

Jacksonville Jaguars hHC Jack Del Rio apparently is not happy with the limited participation of WRs Matt Jones and Reggie Williams, his starters from a year ago, saying "Well, they don't stand at the front of the line" when asked where they currently stand. "It's wide open," Del Rio said. "The guy who's really stepped up and really put himself into the picture is Charles Sharon. He's a guy who's earned his opportunity and look in camp." Sharon was an undrafted free agent a year ago.

"Where a guy was drafted, how a guy was brought in here, doesn't really matter at this point," Del Rio said. Although Williams and Jones practiced Thursday, they were injured much of the offseason and Del Rio made it obvious they have to stay healthy to win jobs. "It's really difficult to improve as a football player if you're not taking reps," he said.

OT Pace Returning To Form

Source: Len Pasquarelli, ESPN

Rams OT Orlando Pace was cleared to practice in minicamp and was not limited at all during the three days of practice. While he still has some rehabilitation work remaining, Pace is on schedule to be ready for the start of training camp in July. "It's getting there," said Pace. "It's a bad injury, especially at a position where you have to extend [your arms] so much, to lock out on pass-rushers. But the progress has been steady, we haven't pushed it, and the signs are all positive. I think I'll be ready to go."

QB Favre Suffers From Sore Shoulder

Source: Associated Press, Sports Illustrated

Packers QB Brett Favre was pulled from Thursdays OTA's with a sore right shoulder - his throwing shoulder. "I probably could practice, but it really don't make a lot of sense to go out and make it any worse," Favre said. "I think it's probably just tendinitis or something like that." HC McCarthy said the medical staff doesn't consider the injury to be serious, but that won't be on the field next Monday and Tuesday, when the Packers conclude their workouts.

Favre also admitted to struggling a little with motivation. "I don't have the self-motivation I once had," Favre conceded. "It's frustrating to me, it's disappointing at times that I just can't make myself get up and go do it. It's much easier to say, `Ah, I'll do it tomorrow.' "The difference being there's going to be people chasing me (on the field) in about six weeks. So, I better do it."

Colts Receive Super Bowl Rings

Source: Mike Chappell, The Indianapolis Star

Get past the 50 diamonds and synthetic blue sapphire horseshoe — if your eyes allow it — and the Indianapolis Colts' Super Bowl ring is much more about the simple words and symbols found in the subtleties of the design.

"I'm excited the way it turned out," said team owner Jim Irsay, who issued about 275 of the rings to players, coaches, other members of his organization and a few close acquaintances at a private ceremony Wednesday evening at the posh Indiana Roof Downtown. There's the word "Faith" on one shank, or side, of the ring. Faith "gives you the strength to have the perseverance to move forward even after many disappointments," Irsay explained. On the opposite shank is the phrase "Our time." That was the Colts' theme as they headed into the playoffs, which culminated Feb. 4 in Miami with a 29-17 victory over the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI, the first championship in the Colts' Indianapolis era.

WR Clayton Bulks Up

Source: Aaron Wilson, Carroll County Times

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Mark Clayton has added ten pounds of muscle during the off-season, in effort to boost his endurance and tackle-breaking ability.

"This year, our attitude when we're on the field is we're attacking," Clayton said. "We want to put points on the board and then let our defense pin their ears back and have at it. Steve has a year under his belt, so, hopefully, this year we'll be able to step it up to another level. "I just wanted to be more explosive, catch the ball better and break some tackles," Clayton said. "We'll see how it all works out. First and foremost is mentally to understand the game to a point where I can just go out and play, help this team and get to where we want to be."

MIA QB Culpepper Injures Hand In Car Crash

Clipped from the Macollvie Jean-François story on Sun-Sentinel.com

CORAL SPRINGS -- Miami Dolphins quarterback Daunte Culpepper injured his hand last
night in a two-vehicle crash, a Florida Highway Patrol spokesman said on Thursday.

The collision occurred about 10:30 p.m. Wednesday on the Sawgrass Expressway at
Mile Marker 18, said FHP Lt. Mike Brown. Culpepper was westbound in a Chevrolet
Caprice when he collided with an unidentified driver in a Chevy Avalanche. Both
vehicles rolled off the roadway.

When paramedics arrived, Culpepper complained of a hand injury, Brown said.

Paramedics took one of the injured to Coral Springs Medical Center, but Brown
could not immediately say whether the patient was the quarterback or the other
driver. Brown also could not say which hand Culpepper injured.

Details of the crash were to be released later Thursday, he said.

Jaguars Interested in QB Culpepper

Source: Greg A. Bedard, Palm Beach Post

The Jacksonville Jaguars recently informed their quarterbacks that reports of the team's interest in QB Daunte Culpepper were true, Jag's starting QB Byron Leftwich and backup QB David Garrard confirmed to reporters today. Garrard said he was told by OC Dirk Koetter that the club's interest in Culpepper, who has demanded his release but whom the Dolphins want to trade, is no reflection on Garrard.

"He said it doesn't have anything to do with (my) status," Garrard said. "I just took it that if there's a player on the street as good as Daunte Culpepper, you have to take a look at him. I'm not going to fault the organization. It's a business."