Sooners in the NFL: 2007 [Archive] - SoonerFans.com Message Boards

Rhino

5/16/2007, 11:22 AM

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/6966/peterson01my3.jpg

Running Back Adrian Peterson (http://www.vikings.com/news_detail_objectname_MiniCampQuotes5407.html)

Listen to Adrian Peterson (http://play.rbn.com/?url=nfl/nfl/open/vikings/demand/PetersonAud5407.rm&proto=rtsp)
Video of Rice and Peterson (http://play.rbn.com/?url=nfl/nfl/open/vikings/demand/RicePetersonRookCampPCVid0504.rmvb&proto=rtsp)

Well has it hit you that this is your first practice as a pro?
Yeah, it's all sinking in. Just being out here and having that purple helmet on, representing the Vikings, it's tangible. It's finally here.

Is there something you can take away from this rookie mini-camp?
Yeah, the relationships you build with the guys and just the whole rookie class...just coming out here and working hard and competing.

Does your collarbone feel okay?
Yeah, I felt good out there running hard and just being there, just getting it done.

Have you made any progress this week on the decision surrounding your collarbone?
Actually I'm feeling good right now, so I'm just focused on learning my playbook, getting my playbook in and just coming out here and making guys better and working hard.

Is there some point during the offseason where you will decide one way or the other to have surgery or not?
I'm pretty sure eventually. Like I said, right now I'm just focusing on me. Right now I'm just focusing on getting these plays in. It's something you really have to study and put time in for to get these plays and the different terminology, the language. That's really my main focus right now. I've been out here practicing. It hasn't given me any problems so I'm just going to push right ahead.

Did learning the playbook start yesterday?
Yeah, yesterday.

They had you catching some kicks today. How much of that have you done and is that something you'd like to do or will do?
Oh definitely, any way I can contribute to the team, I'm willing to do it. Kickoff return, I did it back at the University of Oklahoma, and I'd love to do it if they feel the need for me to be out there.

Have you gotten an appreciation for the fan buzz around here?
Oh yeah, definitely. As soon as I got off the plane, or on the plane on the way to Dallas, Vikings fans were congratulating me and just welcoming me to Minneapolis. Like I said, I'm excited. I'm just here to try to help turn things around.

Did people recognize you on the plane?
Oh yes, coming from Dallas, flying in.

Did you wear a Vikings hat or shirt on?
I had a Vikings shirt on.

Is this something you're prepared for, being what some may call the face of this franchise?
Yeah, I'm definitely prepared for it. It's on a totally different level being in the NFL, but (college) kind of helped me work my way to being able to handle it. I feel like I've been prepared well, and I'm just looking forward to the experience.

Is there anyone along the way who has given you advice on how to handle high expectations?
Yeah, my coaches. Coach Stoops helped me; my dad and my mom (helped me). Basically it's just about being humble and just being yourself and never forgetting where you came from and knowing that when those little kids are walking up to you and asking for autographs, one day you were that kid asking different guys, whether it was on the college level or the NFL level. You were in their shoes, so basically it's just about being humble.

Have you had any contact with Coach Childress about your role in the offense yet?
No, we already talked, but basically I'm another contributor to the team. I'm going to go out there and in whatever way help my team win championships and the Super Bowl. I'm just willing to take that and go with it.

... (??? - I have no idea)
Not really; it's a little bit but it's just the language, just learning the language. Once I get that squared away, I think everything will be good.

Is catching passes something you can handle here? They didn't have you do too much of it at Oklahoma.
No, not too much. It's definitely something I can handle. I'll continue to work on it. There's always room for improvement, just staying focused on the little things that are going to bring your game to the next level. Catching the ball is definitely one of the things they like to do with the running back, so I will just keep improving catching the ball and just my overall game.

Rhino

5/16/2007, 11:42 AM

The defense appeared to get the better of the action Monday morning. They recorded a pair of interceptions both off of tryout quarterback Perry Patterson (Syracuse). Patterson overthrew one intended receiver and it was intercepted by practice squad cornerback Eric Bassey. (http://www.buffalobills.com/news/news.jsp?news_id=4788)
Undrafted rookies Duane Coleman, Reggie Lewis, Riley Swanson, rookie tryout Greg Lovely and 2006 practice player Eric Bassey are the early candidates vying to be the Bills’ fifth cornerback. Someone else may be added to the mix at some point, but this past weekend gave this quintet a shot to show what they’ve got. (http://www.buffalonews.com/111/story/76066.html) http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/8810/bassey01he1.jpg

Rhino

5/16/2007, 11:46 AM

No tidbits on CJ Ah You, but here's some pictures:

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4674/ahyou01ju4.jpghttp://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4682/ahyou02na0.jpghttp://img516.imageshack.us/img516/5790/ahyou03vw7.jpg

buffalobill989

5/16/2007, 11:52 AM

i like the last 2 pics thanks:D

Rhino

5/16/2007, 01:10 PM

Nothing about Zach Latimer either, but this pic (#57):

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/6048/latimerpk0.jpg

Rhino

5/16/2007, 02:06 PM

Things looking up for Teddy Lehman, health-wise.

Lions Defensive Coordinator Joe Barry: (http://blog.mlive.com/highlightreel/2007/05/marinelli_kitna_joe_barry_talk.html)
On Teddy Lehman: "I think we may have talked about this after the OTA days. Just to have Teddy practicing, just to have Teddy getting reps every day, that's something he needs. He had a lot of rust on his body. He didn't do anything this time of year last year. He didn't do anything through training camp and the first seven or eight weeks. Just having him here--going through individual (drills), getting reps in 9-on-7, getting reps in 7-on-7, getting reps in team--that's a plus for Teddy this time of year. So, he's doing good. He has a million miles to go, but just for the simple fact that he's working everyday and getting reps is a plus for Teddy."

On if Lehman's health factored in draft plans: "That's the one good thing about the way coach Marinelli did it. We had those three OTAs before the draft, so we kind of got a feel, not only for the guys who were potentially injured like Teddy, but everyone. It kind of gave me a good idea of where we were. I'd be lying to you if I said it wasn't factored in."

On if there will be competition at the Mike position: "Oh sure. Paris is our starter and Teddy is our backup. There is competition every single day that we walk out on that field. No matter what position it is, no matter who it is, no matter if it's an eight year veteran, or second year pro. There is competition every single day. The way you keep your job is if you do a good job at your job. I hope to get to the point where the backups are constantly biting at the heels of those starters. Yeah Paris is our starter and Teddy is the backup and if Teddy wants to become the starter then (he should) do something."
Foot-ball (http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070516/BLOG21/70516047)
Linebacker Teddy Lehman took a long time to recover from a serious foot injury, but he is 100% healthy now. He has talked a little bit with running back Kevin Jones, who is recovering from the same thing.

“I know it’s stressful,” Lehman said. “I know you feel like you’re never going to get back out there. But it’s a long process. You’ve just got to keep trucking.”

Suerreal

5/16/2007, 02:10 PM

Those guys [Peterson and Taylor] will see the field and they'll see the field together I'm sure at different points in time.
- Vikings coach Brad Childress as quoted by Rhino

The words appear to be English, but. . .
:confused:

Suerreal

5/16/2007, 02:17 PM

(forgot to say)
Thanks for starting this thread & for all the information in it!

Boomer.....

5/16/2007, 02:18 PM

Great info!

Rhino

5/16/2007, 03:29 PM

From Head Coach Lovie Smith: (http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3433)

How are Mike Brown and Tommie Harris progressing in their rehab from injuries and when do you anticipate they will be cleared to begin participating in practice?

Their rehab is coming along well, very well as a matter of fact. We assume that both players will practice with us before training camp.

jk the sooner fan

5/16/2007, 03:36 PM

nothing on dvoracek i assume....

Rhino

5/16/2007, 03:44 PM

Here's something on Dvoracek: (http://www.thetimesonline.com/articles/2007/04/28/sports/top_sports/docd72eac06db935878862572ca006dddf9.txt)

"As far as 'true' needs, we have a Super Bowl team coming back for the most part," coach Lovie Smith said. "We're just trying to improve our ballclub like we do each year.

"You can look at the defensive tackle position and there's cause for concern, but I've seen Dusty Dvoracek -- a guy we didn't have last year, a third-round pick -- and he's looking very good. So is Anthony Adams. I like our defensive line the way it's looking right now."

The Bears have one selection in each of the first five rounds and two in the seventh round, but none higher than 31st.

"Of course, Tank will eventually be back with us," Smith said. "Tommie and Mike are progressing well. Rehab is going good. They're two players you have to pull back and ask to slow down a little bit. We can't wait to get them back on the field with us."

Rhino

5/16/2007, 03:52 PM

Looks like a couple weeks back, William Bartee had his contract terminated by Kansas City.

I'll remove him from the list.

jk the sooner fan

5/16/2007, 03:58 PM

will be interesting to see if Runnels gets another year with the Bears

Rhino

5/16/2007, 04:17 PM

will be interesting to see if Runnels gets another year with the Bears One of their other FBs (Bryan Johnson) was let go, so it's just Jason McKie and Runnels now. They haven't brought anyone else in yet. If he can improve at FB and excel on special teams, he'll be good for another year.

jk the sooner fan

5/16/2007, 04:19 PM

good to hear - i think more than any other player gone last year, i missed him the most

Rhino

5/17/2007, 09:39 AM

Paul Thompson signed a FA contract with Green Bay (http://www.packers.com/news/transactions/2007/) yesterday, not either of the New York clubs.

link (http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=607006)

Meanwhile, the Packers signed Oklahoma quarterback Paul Thompson on Wednesday.

Thompson could be very useful this weekend if the Packers decide they want to withhold Favre from practice or limit his on-field work in any way. Backup quarterback Aaron Rodgers is rehabilitating from a broken bone in his foot, so the Packers would have been down to just third-string quarterback Ingle Martin for the weekend.

So they brought in the athletically gifted Thompson, who could help out right away. He is from Austin, Texas, and has been working out there with former Packers quarterback Ty Detmer since before the combine. Detmer has also been giving Thompson a crash course on the Packers' West Coast offense.

"We watched a lot of game tape on him leading up to the draft and spent some time watching him extensively at the combine," said Packers general manager Ted Thompson. "And we felt like he deserved another look."

Paul Thompson (6-4, 215) is relatively green in terms of quarterbacking but has already established his reputation as a leader. He started four games at receiver and caught 11 passes in 2005 but was reinserted at quarterback in 2006.

He started all 14 games as the Sooners went on to win the Big 12 championship. Thompson completed 204 of 336 attempts (60.7%) for 2,667 yards and 22 touchdowns last year. He was sacked 17 times and intercepted 11 for a quarterback rating of 142.45.

"He can move around, he can make plays with his feet, but we thought he played the position of quarterback well enough to take a look," said Ted Thompson. "I know some teams were looking at maybe an alternate-position type guy but we wanted to see him as a quarterback."

Boomer.....

5/17/2007, 09:47 AM

Interesting...

Rhino

5/17/2007, 10:26 AM

From NFL.com: (http://www.nfl.com/fantasy/story/10176818)

Here's our list of the top 15 wideouts that will enter their third season in 2007:

2. Mark Clayton (http://www.nfl.com/players/playerpage/408403), Baltimore: Clayton showed serious flashes of potential in his second season, and there's little doubt he will build on that success. The Oklahoma product recorded two 100-yard performances and two touchdowns over the final four weeks and became an attractive option for Steve McNair, so a season with 1,000-plus yards and five to seven scores is within reach.

6. Brandon Jones (http://www.nfl.com/players/playerpage/414118), Tennessee: With the status of David Givens in doubt after a second surgery on his knee, Jones now appears to be the favorite to open the regular season as the Titans' No. 1 wide receiver. While there have been rumors that the team has some real interest in veteran free agent Keyshawn Johnson, Jones is the most attractive fantasy wideout on their roster at this time.

12. Mark Bradley (http://www.nfl.com/players/playerpage/406951), Chicago: Injuries and the emergence of Bernard Berrian hurt Bradley's value last season, and now he'll be forced to battle Rashied Davis for the third spot on the depth chart.

Rhino

5/17/2007, 10:37 AM

link (http://www.rctimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070513/SPORTS01/705130396/1002/MTCN0302)

While Brandon Jones dismissed the No. 1 receiver tag many are eager to pin on him, he is considered the most promising wideout in the bunch.
Scout NFL Audible: Titans WR Brandon Jones (http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=378&p=2&c=643119)
By Ed Thompson
Scout.com
Posted May 10, 2007

With Drew Bennett and Bobby Wade gone, the pressure will be on third-year receiver Brandon Jones to show he can be Vince Young's primary target. But he's up for the challenge. Find out what's been going on with the Titans and Brandon in this exclusive interview with Scout.com's Ed Thompson.

Ed Thompson: What's a typical day like at the Titans' facilities right now?

Brandon Jones: We go up there at about eight o'clock and get our lifting in, then we get our running in, and then we do seven-on-seven with the team. And then we also play this little game--it's like a basketball game, but it's a football game. You put trashcans at each end of the field and you have to try to outscore your opponent. It's seven against seven and it's a lot of fun; we do it everyday.

ET: What's the most fun thing you did during the offseason?

BJ: Recently I went down to Florida and stayed at the Portofino Bay Hotel with my girlfriend. We went to Universal and Disney World and I got to ride this ride called Soarin' that I've been wanting to ride since my days in college. We visited Disney World when we had a bowl game in college and I rode that ride and have been in love with it ever since. I've been wanting to ride it again and I finally did that. So that was probably the most exciting thing I've done in this offseason.

ET: How much time did you take off before you got back into training and conditioning again?

BJ: Maybe a couple of weeks, but you never really take off. It's cool, I finally got a weight room set up in my basement so I could work out my knee whenever I want to. So I took a couple weeks of weeks off and then we were back at it.

ET: Have you approached your training for this season any differently than in the past?

BJ: Yeah, I approach every year differently because you have a bigger role to play. You're counted on and you've matured more, so now it's a different role. This was really my first offseason anyway. Last year I had that torn ACL, so I was there everyday working on that. This year I'm able to do everything with the team instead of being a spectator and getting everything prepared.

ET: How's the team handling Pacman Jones' one-year suspension? Has it been a topic of discussion or have you guys not been letting it become a distraction?

BJ: We're not letting it become a distraction because we look at it as we lost him for a season--and there's no need for us to talk about it because talking about it isn't going to get him back. We know we're in this thing to win games and play together. We have the 2007 season without him, so the best of luck to Pacman in whatever he does, but we all know that it's a tough loss to lose one of your top corners, your return man, and your playmaker. He brings a lot to the table, but we look at it as we have to move on and find other guys to fill that void for this year and find ways to win without Pacman. So it's not much of a discussion, but we do feel for Pacman and we hope he can come back and help us win.

Rhino

5/17/2007, 10:37 AM

Vikings | Peterson does not need surgery right now
Wed, 16 May 2007 15:05:29 -0700
Sean Jensen, of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, reports the collarbone injury of Minnesota Vikings RB Adrian L. Peterson (collarbone) is healing, and he will not need surgery to add a plate to stabilize the collarbone at this time. Peterson has been participating at the team's minicamp and will not be limited at training camp.

Rhino

5/17/2007, 10:51 AM

The 'D' ranked 25th in the NFL in 2006, giving up 344 yards a game, 25 passing TDs and 18 rushing scores. There were a few bright spots, though. Linebacker Brandon Moore became a full-time starter and responded with team highs in tackles (92) and sacks (6½). (http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/2007/05/49ers-defendse-panforgold140507.html) http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/2914/moore02cz8.jpghttp://img514.imageshack.us/img514/9631/moore01mk5.jpg

StuIsTheMan

5/17/2007, 10:56 AM

PT is now a Packer...man I hope someone holds on to him...

http://packers.scout.com/2/644683.html

Rhino

5/17/2007, 11:24 AM

But the Ravens are extremely high on Chris Chester, an athletic second-round pick in 2006. He will push both Flynn and Brown in training camp and could become the starting center at some point during the season.

"Chris' future is at center, although we saw him to be very functional at guard last season," Billick said. (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/bal-ravens0516,0,5724677.story?coll=bal-sports-headlines) John Clayton: (http://abclocal.go.com/wtvd/story?section=sports&id=5282570)

Fortunately, Brian Billick has been grooming some young replacements. Adam Terry takes over at right tackle and Jason Brown replaces Mulitalo, while Chris Chester will challenge Keydrick Vincent at right guard. http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/2269/chester01lm6.jpg

Rhino

5/17/2007, 11:34 AM

From a few weeks back:

Ravens' Gregg rewarded with four-year extension (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/bal-sp.gregg26apr26,0,1309768.story?coll=bal-sports-football)

In the midst of trying to extend linebacker Terrell Suggs' contract, the Ravens secured the long-term services of another valuable member of the defense yesterday.

Nose tackle Kelly Gregg agreed on a four-year extension with the Ravens that will run through the 2011 season, a team official confirmed to The Sun last night. The unexpected agreement could allow Gregg to finish his career with the Ravens.

One of the most underrated players on last season's top-ranked defense, Gregg was the team's fourth-leading tackler and anchored the middle of the line. He has led all NFL interior linemen in tackles the past five seasons, averaging 97 during that span.

"He's the best technician of any defensive lineman in the league," said defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, who has coached Gregg since both were at the University of Oklahoma. "All of his teammates know how good he is."

The Ravens showed how much they value Gregg by rewarding him with an extension they did not have to give.

Gregg, 30, was signed for the next two seasons and was scheduled to earn $1.4 million this season and $1.7 million next year.

A one-time practice-squad player, Gregg broke into the starting lineup in 2002 when Tony Siragusa retired and Sam Adams was released.

Often overlooked because of his relatively small frame (6 feet, 310 pounds), Gregg offsets his lack of bulk with great strength and leverage.

Gregg has been one of the most consistent players on the Ravens, recording 100 tackles in three of the past four seasons. The only other Raven to have as many 100-tackle seasons since 2003 is linebacker Ray Lewis, who also has done it three times.

Still, Gregg has never been voted to a Pro Bowl.

"Based on the people you talk to after we play them, it should be a guarantee," coach Brian Billick said in December.

The agreement with Gregg comes during a busy month.

A few weeks ago, the Ravens signed Ryan to a two-year contract that made him one of the highest-paid defensive coordinators in the NFL. The team also has begun talks with Suggs on an extension that would keep him from becoming a free agent at the end of the season.

Rhino

5/17/2007, 11:46 AM

Depth might not be a concern if Dan Cody is able to finish a season. The Ravens' second-round pick in 2005, Cody suffered a season-ending knee injury last year but has participated in two workouts this offseason.

The Ravens are hopeful Cody will be ready to play this season.

"We have more evidence than just a feeling," FitzGerald said. "We haven't been taking it easy on the knee." (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/bal-ravens0423,0,5462530.story?coll=bal-sports-football) http://img127.imageshack.us/img127/2830/cody01yc8.jpg

Rhino

5/18/2007, 04:46 PM

A Rare Opportunity For Bassey (http://www.buffalobills.com/news/news.jsp?news_id=4794)

The fifth cornerback spot is one that is often held by an incumbent on an NFL roster or a middle round draft pick. A player that has been with the team for a couple of seasons and capably held down a reserve role, or is being groomed for bigger and better things in a year or two.

For the Bills the fifth cornerback spot is wide open, much like the starting right cornerback job, and for a player like Eric Bassey that's a rare, rare opportunity. It's not often that a former undrafted rookie free agent has only current rookie free agents to compete with for an opening on a 53-man roster. But that appears to be the situation right now with Buffalo down on numbers at cornerback.

After not drafting a cornerback Buffalo's front office identified the position as one in need of some reinforcements. But as GM Marv Levy has said many times reinforcements can sometimes come from within. Bassey is hoping to make good on that theory for Buffalo.

"This opportunity has come and I feel blessed to have it," Bassey said. "The NFL is a numbers game, but this happens to be one that could work in my favor if I work hard."

Armed with timed speed in the mid 4.3s, Bassey has always been physically gifted and at 6'0" he has good size for the position. His issue has been consistency. Bassey flashed the ability to make plays in college, but didn't turn in enough of them week to week.

He worked hard to change that last year while toiling on Buffalo's practice squad.

"I took the time last year of not being on the active roster by learning and getting to know the defensive system," he said. "I got a year of NFL experience. Now I can hopefully go out there and take that knowledge and just play."

Bassey said he knew his game was improving about midway through the 2006 season, after he had faced Buffalo's number one receiving corps for about 10 weeks straight as a member of the scout team in practice.

"I kind of felt I was getting a little more comfortable with what was going on," he said. "Our receivers will let you know exactly where you're at, and if you're not up to par they'll get the best of you pretty fast. But the speed of the receivers wasn't outrageous anymore. Guys weren't just racing at me and my eyes weren't popping out of my head. Toward the end of the year I was getting more hands on the ball. I was able to calm down and break and plant with them and I made more plays toward the end of the year."

As a result Bills defensive backs coach George Catavolos is pushing Bassey to give him more of those plays more of the time this year.

"Coach Catavolos expects a lot from me," said Bassey on the heels of his participation in the Bills rookie camp. "Now that I've shown him I can make plays I have to continue to show him. This is a highly competitive game so I can't fall off. He just wants that consistency where he sees it all the time."

In an effort to provide that Bassey has focused on his footwork a lot this offseason. As he sees it, sound technique should lead to more opportunities to make plays.

"Footwork on jams, hip flips and reading three step drops by the quarterback," Bassey said. "Things like that in the NFL are more detailed so you watch yourself on film to critique yourself and hone in on the details. I'm watching how my foot is placed when I come out of my break, my attack angle. All of those things are details that I'm working on. Your plant and drive if you're a corner is something you have to work on consistently to be the best."

The Bills aren't pinning all of their hopes on Bassey or any of the other cornerbacks that were on their roster last year, but they wouldn't mind if one of them took a significant leap forward in their play. The club has also added three rookie free agent conerbacks in Duane Coleman (Clemson), Reggie Lewis (Florida) and Riley Swanson (Wake Forest).

Having been a former undrafted free agent himself, Bassey isn't taking the new challengers lightly.

"It's all competition," said Bassey. "All you can do is work as hard as you can and control the things that you can control and whatever happens after that you just have to roll with it."

"It's open," said head coach Dick Jauron of the cornerback position. "We're going to let them compete for it."

And that's just what Bassey intends to do. After putting on five more pounds of lean muscle this offseason the Oklahoma product is now tipping the scales at 205.

"I feel real good," Bassey said. "We'll see how it works out because we've got some speed around here at receiver. I think I've still got my speed, but I can put my hands on people now and I feel this will help me support the run. We'll see how it goes."

Big Red Ron

5/18/2007, 11:31 PM

Good for Eric.

birddog

5/18/2007, 11:59 PM

man, that's the best read i've had on this board in a long time.

thanks, rhino.

okienole3

5/19/2007, 09:46 AM

Seems like the most guys we have had hanging around in the NFL in a while.

SoonerGM

5/19/2007, 08:29 PM

Big Red Ron

5/19/2007, 11:14 PM

i just feel like Mark Bradley is getting a raw deal because of "the emergence of Bernard Berrian". the dude drops passes just as bad as TO, but he is a "deep threat". whatever. the chicago wideouts are stank. i remember every game i watched of them last year, i would be yelling at the tv, "throw to bradley, at least he will catch it!". he saved them a few times last season. i would think the smart thing to do would be dump the rubber handed recievers and give this guy a legit shot.I have a feeling that there may be some "business" type stuff going on with Bradley. If they don't throw much to him and know what kind of talent he is that could keep his new deal cheeper for the team. WaddawhIknow?:D

oumartin

5/19/2007, 11:58 PM

How can Bradley not also be a deep threat? that guy is a burner

rankin07

5/20/2007, 12:57 AM

That is so awsome that OU's producing all this unreal talent. I know that's extremely attractive to recruits, which has shown in the past 5 years. Speaking of these receivers now in the league, I'm wondering how Antwone Savage never made it he had speed to burn and was a heck of a receiver here. Anyone know what happened of him or how he didnt make the NFL? He sure had the talent.

Texas Golfer

5/20/2007, 01:07 AM

I can hardly wait until the upcoming season begins.

Rhino

5/22/2007, 12:06 AM

Undrafted rookie Jerry Babb was better than at rookie camp but appeared to be swimming. Paul Thompson, an undrafted rookie from Oklahoma, showed athleticism but has an elongated throwing delivery. (http://www.sheboygan-press.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070521/SHE02/705210530/1882/SHEsports)
Quarterback Favre and backup Aaron Rodgers were held out of 11-on-11 sessions throughout the camp, giving third-stringer Ingle Martin most of the snaps in team periods. While Martin was inconsistent, he did have some encouraging moments, and undrafted rookie free agents Jerry Babb and Paul Thompson will have to come a long, long way during the OTAs to challenge Martin for the No. 3 job in training camp. (http://www.madison.com/wsj/home/sports/index.php?ntid=135393&ntpid=2).

Rhino

5/22/2007, 12:08 AM

Scout.com: (http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=120&p=2&c=642764)

Nwaneri is no lock to make the roster, and will likely join the group of Stockar McDougle, Dan Connelly, and Richard Collier, all vying for roster spots.

Rhino

5/22/2007, 12:10 AM

Rockford Register Star: (http://www.rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070427/SPORTS1905/104270018/1155/SPORTS)

‘Redshirt’ class
Last year, Bears coach Lovie Smith referred to some of his second-year players as redshirt players. The same thing applies this spring with players such as linebacker Jamar Williams and defensive tackle Dusty Dvoracek.

“Both look good in early practices here,” said Smith, mentioning the team could have used Dvoracek last year and that Williams was “making a move” up the depth chart when he was injured.

“I’m just excited about getting two more good football players in the mix.”

oumartin

5/22/2007, 12:11 AM

I heard from a source on this board only way Paul will make it is at receiver.
:D

Rhino

5/22/2007, 12:13 AM

Scout.com: (http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=124&p=2&c=645135)

Meanwhile, in Buffalo, general manager Marv Levy experienced deja vu when the team selected Oklahoma defensive C.J. Ah You in the seventh round. Levy coached Junior Ah You, C.J.'s uncle, in the Canadian Football League.

Said Levy, "He was probably the greatest defensive end in the history of the CFL, the Canadian version of Bruce Smith. At the combine, C.J. came up to me and said, 'You coached my uncle.' I hope he has those genes."

Rhino

5/22/2007, 12:16 AM

Not the NFL, but good for Thibs.

Stampeders sign three players (http://www.tsn.ca/cfl/news_story/?ID=207384&hubname=cfl)
The Calgary Stampeders have signed defensive lineman Calvin Thibodeaux, defensive back Adrian Ward and receiver Keenan Howry.
...

Thibodeaux played his college ball at Oklahoma. In 2006, he dressed for 14 games, recording 14 solo tackles to go along with his 17 assisted tackles, one sack, one interception and one fumble recovery.

"Calvin was a starter for the strong Oklahoma program and his speed and quickness will be maximized in our league,'' said Barker. ''We expect him to compete for a roster spot in training camp.''

Rhino

5/22/2007, 12:39 AM

Brodney Pool finally has a clear path to a starting job in Cleveland now that Brian Russell has left town, and he should benefit from the fact that fellow safety Sean Jones established himself as maybe the Browns’ best defensive player last year. (http://www.profantasysports.com/easycite/football.php?PID=6530&spid=1).

Rhino

5/24/2007, 03:38 PM

The Morning Journal: (http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18375340&BRD=1699&PAG=461&dept_id=46370&rfi=6)

Rusty beginning

No one is panicking since yesterday was the first day of OTAs, but ...
Antonio Perkins, a 2005 draft choice who has done nothing as a cornerback or punt returner in two years, dropped a punt that hit him square in the hands.

Rhino

5/24/2007, 03:47 PM

The Press Box: (http://www.pressboxonline.com/blog.cfm?ID=324)

The good weather and high spirits led to a couple of funny lines:
- When linebacker Bart Scott was asked why he reported to a voluntary OTA, he said, "I had nothing better to do. I have no life."

- Neuheisel offered this about the domestic toll a coaching job can take: "There are two kinds of wives in this business... great ones and ex-ones."

- Billick noticed cornerback Corey Ivy running out a play near the hill that leads to a gigantic pond at the far end of the team's complex. As Ivy stumbled down the hill, the coach said, "Don't worry, we'll fish you out." Ivy going against Mark Clayton:
http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/7675/claytonivyvk1.jpg

Rhino

5/24/2007, 03:52 PM

The Rookie Way (http://sports.ign.com/articles/790/790826p1.html)

Clint Ingram of the Jaguars knew he was going to make big plays the moment the ink dried on his contract. "I think I was ready once they put me out there on the field and I strapped on my helmet. I still knew I was a rookie as far as rank and year, but it wasn't like the person on the other side of the ball was going to say, 'That's only a rookie going against me - let me take it easy on him.' As soon as I got on the field with everybody else, all that rookie stuff went aside and I was just like everybody else."

Rhino

5/24/2007, 03:55 PM

Scouting Report: Teddy Lehman (http://blog.mlive.com/lionsinsider/2007/05/scouting_report_teddy_lehman.html)
Posted by Tom Kowalski May 23, 2007 06:00AM
Categories: Scouting Report

One of the biggest questions going into training camp will be which Teddy Lehman will show up: the player who, as a rookie, took more snaps than any other defensive player and played at a high level, or the guy who has struggled to stay healthy the last two years?

It's a question the Lions want answered, one way or the other. If healthy, Lehman will push Paris Lenon for the starting job because he's very bright, shows good instincts and has speed. For all intents and purposes, Lehman only has one year of experience so his development is still in the early stages.

All the reports now are positive about Lehman's health but until he gets in pads and goes through several days of heavy contact, no one is really sure if his foot is going to hold up. The problem started two years ago when Lehman suffered a foot injury that was later diagnosed as a Lisfranc sprain. Lehman wasn't put on the injured reserve list for several weeks because the team was still hoping he might return.

The injury continued to linger into last season where Lehman missed the entire training camp and the first seven games of the season. After appearing in four games, Lehman missed the final five games with a hamstring injury.

If Lehman truly is healthy, it's going to be interesting to see how quickly - and how well - he adapts to the one-gap system. Remember, he was never on the field last year when the scheme was being installed. Lehman isn't the type of player who excels at taking on blockers one-on-one, but his athletic ability will serve him well in filling gaps.

The Lions saw some of that ability beginning to blossom during his rookie season. The former second-round pick from Oklahoma was a workhorse, amassing 120 tackles on defense and also playing on several special teams units. Since that point, he hasn't played in more than five games in any of the last two seasons. http://blog.mlive.com/lionsinsider/medium_040502minicamps_det_tlehman.jpg

swardboy

5/25/2007, 11:52 AM

From Sporting News column "These rookies might have legs"
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=211892

Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings. What popped out most were his receiving skills, which he rarely had a chance to display at Oklahoma. Running a lot of swing routes and checkdowns, Peterson wowed the Vikings with his ability to extend his arms and catch the call,

Stitch Face

5/28/2007, 08:11 PM

I'm a little behind the curve here, but what happened to Rocky?

oumartin

5/29/2007, 05:00 AM

he lost to Apollo Creed, then beat Apollo, then Mr. T. then that Russian Dude and then got into a street fight with Tommy Gunn!

Easting

5/29/2007, 07:23 AM

he lost to Apollo Creed, then beat Apollo, then Mr. T. then that Russian Dude and then got into a street fight with Tommy Gunn!

O god yer killin' meh!

That there was funny!

Rhino

5/30/2007, 06:02 PM

Again, not NFL, but good for C.O.

Rookies eager to get on field and prove themselves (http://winnipegsun.com/Sports/Football/2007/05/30/4219017-sun.html)

Chijioke Onyenegecha has three days to get a feel for Canadian football, Canad Inns Stadium and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers defensive playbook.

Other than that, the rookie Bombers defensive back doesn't have much on his plate.

Onyenegecha and approximately 25 other first-year Bomber CFLers will hit the Canad Inns Stadium field today at 10:30 a.m. for the start of the team's rookie camp. Also joining them will be veteran quarterbacks Kevin Glenn, Brad Banks and Ryan Dinwiddie.

The rookies had their first official meeting with Bomber brass last night at the stadium, and Onyenegecha, who is in Canada for the first time, is glad to have the opportunity to get into a groove before the veterans arrive on Sunday.

"We gotta get a feel for things and figure out what's going on and where to go and how to be on time and know the facilities and learn everything real quick," Onyenegecha said last night at Canad Inns-Polo Park, the team's camp hotel. "It's an advantage we're here three days early because the veterans know everything.

"They're right on time, they know where to go and how everything works, and we gotta figure it out and catch up as soon as possible."

Receiver Kerry Johnson, another first-time visitor to Canada, is also thankful for being able to get on the field in advance of the vets.

"It gives the young guys and the new guys a chance to get in and learn the system and get a head start before everybody else gets in," he said. "I'm looking forward to getting out there and especially get some reps before all the other guys get in."

Johnson hasn't played meaningful football since injuring his knee in Atlanta Falcons training camp in 2005, so he's itching to start catching some passes.

"I'm excited. I'm ready to get back on the field," the 6-foot-3, 202-pound Ole Miss product said. "I really don't know what to expect. I'm just ready to get out and compete.

"A lot of guys have just been waiting for this time of the year, so obviously we want to get out there and have fun."

And just like every other year, the newcomers north of the border talk about the bigger CFL field like it's the Loch Ness Monster. They've heard stories about it, but they haven't seen it.

"I heard it's pretty big," Onyenegecha said. "We've been talking about it, some of the guys."

Rhino

5/30/2007, 06:10 PM

This could be the last chance for Dan Cody (http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/2007/05/ravens-lastchance-dancody300507.html)

Dan Cody may be a hybrid, but he's not high mileage.

In fact, the former University of Oklahoma star's stat line for two seasons as a Baltimore Raven consists of one (1) tackle. And that was an assist.

A second-round draft pick in 2005 after making several All-America first teams as a Sooner senior, the 6-foot-5, 255-pounder promptly blew out his right knee on the first day of training camp and missed the entire season after ACL surgery. Last year, he played in only two games after hurting his knee again.

Now, apparently, Cody is healthy once more, although he chose not to participate in the Ravens' OTAs this month. And he's still considered one of the possibilities to replace the departed Adalius Thomas at outside linebacker/rush end.

The position that Thomas played so well for the Ravens last season was a product of the 46 defense that coordinator Rex Ryan learned from his father, Buddy. In it, three down linemen place themselves in almost a 3-4 alignment, with another DE split off to the weak side, outside the offensive tackle, for edge rushing purposes. Ryan also likes big linebackers who can be versatile against the run or pass.

And there were reasons why the Ravens let Thomas walk, despite the fact that he was one of the strongest performers in a fearsome 2006 defense. DE Terrell Suggs can also play linebacker, in which case fourth-year man Jarret Johnson (second all-time in University of Alabama history with 23 career sacks) could move in for Suggs on the D-line. Or Johnson could play the rush end position and leave Trevor Pryce, Kelly Gregg and second-year man Haloti Ngata as down linemen.

Fourth-round draft pick Antwan Barnes (Florida International) is a bit small at 6-1, 240, but he ran a 4.43 40 at the NFL combine and pumped out 31 reps in the bench press, evoking comparisons with Dwight Freeney. Prescott Burgess, taken in the sixth round, was second in tackles on a formidable Michigan defense and also intercepted a couple of passes during the Wolverines' Rose Bowl season (one for a touchdown).

Cody's pluses are his quickness -- despite the knee problems -- and his length, which is enough to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. He has been working on his upper body strength and his repertoire of moves. At OU, he relied largely on speed to get into the backfield.

It's odd, however, that he isn't participating in the team's voluntary workouts. There may well be a good reason for Cody's absence, but it would seem that he needs all the work he can get at this point in his career -- especially since Barnes, who may emerge as his chief competitor for a starting job -- is currently working out and learning Ryan's defense.

If nothing else, history has proven Dan Cody to be tenacious. He missed a season at Oklahoma when he was diagnosed with clinical depression, and the two knee injuries might have chased off a less determined prospect. Perhaps Cody doesn't want to take a chance with his knee too early, knowing that if it gives out on him again, this is probably the end of the line.

Rhino

5/30/2007, 06:21 PM

http://img64.imageshack.us/img64/9550/ahyougb6.jpg

Rookie favorite (http://www.buffalobills.com/news/news.jsp?news_id=4816)
Bills defensive line coach Bill Kollar seems to enjoy getting on his rookie draft picks. Last year he was all over John McCargo day and night. This year Kollar is taking seventh-round pick defensive end C.J. Ah You to task.

Noticing Ah You failing to run to the football even though the play was down the field Kollar barked at Ah You to run and pursue the ball, a requirement in Buffalo's defensive system.

Later he saw Ah You's mind spinning as he was hesitating after the snap.

Kollar's advice?

"Quit thinking and act like you're having fun out here!"

Rhino

5/30/2007, 06:25 PM

Browns' Wilson sets sights high (http://www.cantonrep.com/index.php?ID=356250&Category=17&subCategoryID=0)

It sounds like a swell prize when the Browns' brass says, "That third spot is up for grabs."

Travis Wilson is in no-thanks mode, reaching two rungs higher.

"In my mind and in my heart," the 2006 third-round draft pick said, "I compete for No. 1."

WHO'S AHEAD OF HIM

Star-in-waiting Braylon Edwards and veteran Joe Jurevicius are the No. 1 and No. 2 receivers on the spring depth chart.

No. 3 can be key. On the 2002 playoff team, Quincy Morgan (964 yards), Kevin Johnson (703) and Dennis Northcutt (601) made a difference. Northcutt had a six-catch, 92-yard game going in the playoffs at Pittsburgh when he dropped a game-clinching floater.

Someone from among Wilson, third-year pro Joshua Cribbs and Tim Carter, a former Giant, figures to be the third man this autumn.

"That's the way it looks right now on paper," Wilson said, "but the way I treat every day, I'm going for the No. 1 spot."

TWO CATCHES AS A ROOKIE

Talk about a jump over the Grand Canyon.

Wilson caught two passes as a rookie behind a top four of Edwards, Jurevicius, Northcutt and Cribbs. Coaches were in job-saving mode, not inclined to test rookies. The inside view was that Wilson needed to mature, show a better grasp of the offense and be sharper in practice.

Now?

"I have a whole year of maturity, of learning how to be a pro," Wilson said after a spring practice. "I understand what it takes to be successful ... hard work in the weight room and conditioning, a better understanding of the playbook."

Wilson seems as self-confident as when he said he was the best receiver in the 2006 draft. He was picked after Santonio Holmes, Chad Jackson, Sinorice Moss, Greg Jennings and Devin Hester.

"What I said might have come out wrong to some," Wilson said, "but I feel whatever you do in life, you should think you're the best and make yourself better. That's what makes the great people great."

The 6-foot-2, 210-pounder says he has run the 40 in 4.4 flat. He has long arms, jumping ability and flexibility. One thing that caught scouts' eyes was his knack for changing direction, a key to getting open.

He became a first-round prospect as an Oklahoma junior, then slipped as a senior amid a quarterback change and injuries. He was invisible as an NFL rookie.

DRAFT PICKS NEED TO HELP

One organizational goal coming off a 4-12 year is for the scouting and coaching departments to work together better to develop young players. A specific goal for 2007 is to get help from at least two of last year's mid-level draft picks - Wilson, offensive lineman Isaac Sowells, cornerback Demario Minter and running back Jerome Harrison.

The most flattering snapshot of Wilson comes from late in his junior year at Oklahoma: Nine catches, 135 yards against Nebraska; three catches for first downs in the Big 12 title game against Colorado; seven catches, two TDs in the Orange Bowl against Southern Cal.

As an NFL rookie, he was stuck behind a guy on his way out (Northcutt) in a season going nowhere. Wouldn't it have made sense to develop the kid?

"Of course, you're gonna have that in your mind," Wilson said, "but you've got to put your faith in the coaches."

New Offensive Coordinator Rob Chudzinski is at last considering putting more faith in Wilson.

mOUse

6/6/2007, 07:26 AM

From the Ravens website:
This program already played though! Sorry. But good for Sooners.

The NFL Network is airing a five-part series on the Ed Block Courage Award Foundation and the Courage Award Recipients this week on Total Access, with a new segment airing each weeknight at 7:00 p.m.
Ravens fans, be sure to tune in to NFL Network this Friday for a special feature on Corey Ivy, Baltimore’s representative this year. The gritty cornerback certainly deserved the award.
On a routine special teams play against the Denver Broncos on Oct. 9, Ivy unknowingly lacerated his kidney. During the trip home, the team charter flight was forced to make an emergency landing in Pittsburgh when teammates noticed Ivy doubled over in pain.
Following three nights in the hospital and six weeks on the sidelines, the gritty 5-9, 188-pounder was back in the lineup, even though some doctors told him there was no hope for the rest of the season.
When Ivy did return - against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium - he entered in dramatic fashion, intercepting a pass and forcing a fumble that was returned for a touchdown by Adalius Thomas.
That determination and toughness led his fellow Ravens to elect Ivy their Ed Block Courage Award recipient, something that made Tuesday's event even more poignant.
"Other guys on our team were deserving of the honor also," Ivy said. "[Safety] Ed Reed coming off an ankle injury, and [linebacker] Ray Lewis coming off a hamstring tear were both deserving. So to be voted by your peers and your coaches, it's a great honor to represent the Ravens the best way I know how."

Rhino

6/6/2007, 11:08 AM

:(

Bad luck constant companion of Ravens' Cody (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/bal-sp.ravens05jun05,0,4477401.story?coll=bal-sports-football)
It's hoped linebacker won't need surgery for 3rd knee injury in 3 seasons
By Jamison Hensley - Sun reporter
Originally published June 5, 2007

When the Ravens begin their only mandatory minicamp today, there will be a noticeable absence on the field, although it is hardly a surprise anymore.

As he's been for most of his injury-marred career, linebacker Dan Cody will be sidelined with a knee injury.

During a non-contact pass-rush drill May 20, Cody hyperextended his right knee and tore a piece of cartilage about the size of a thumbnail. It was his third knee injury since being drafted in the second round 26 months ago and likely will cause him to miss the final two offseason minicamps.

"The most frustrating part is that as soon as I get going, I get the rug pulled out from underneath me," Cody said.

The Ravens are taking a cautious approach with Cody because they don't want to lose their young pass rusher for a third straight season.

The team doesn't consider this latest injury as serious as Cody's previous ones and is optimistic that he'll be ready for training camp at the end of July.

But there is a possibility he could need surgery; if so, that would require four months of rehabilitation, which would presumably end his season.

"They say more times than not, it heals on its own," Cody said. "But there is no 100 percent guarantee."

The Ravens feel it's about time for Cody to catch a break.

In the 2005 draft, Cody thought he would be taken in the first round, but he dropped into the second because teams were worried because he had been diagnosed with clinical depression.

His rookie season then abruptly ended during the first practice of training camp when he sprained the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee without being hit. He injured the knee when turning quickly in an attempt to hustle after a misdirection play.

Cody's misfortune continued last season when he tore the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee Nov. 26 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. It occurred on the first play of his second career game when he accidentally collided with teammate Trevor Pryce.

As a result, Cody has lined up for about 20 plays in two seasons.

"It's just been a run of bad luck for Dan," outside linebacker coach Mike Pettine said. "We've seen flashes of what he can be and we're so encouraged by it. But it's hard to rely on him, knowing the injury history is there.

"At the same time, we have faith in Dan - that when he's healthy he's going to be a heck of a player for us. Nobody is more frustrated by the whole injury thing than Dan himself."

The Ravens have long envisioned Cody as a high-motor, pass-rushing end in the mold of former Raven Michael McCrary.

Cody, 25, is expected to compete with rookie Antwan Barnes to be the team's left rush end in passing situations, although Jarret Johnson will be in the mix, too. Cody has heard the Ravens are high on Barnes, a fourth-round pick out of Florida International.

"It's extra motivation for me," Cody said. "I want to see the kids do well, but at the same time, this camp was really going to be a good opportunity for me to stake my claim on this defense."

Cody was considered one of the top pass rushers coming out of college in 2005.

In his final two seasons at Oklahoma, he led the Sooners with 20 sacks as they played in back-to-back Bowl Championship Series title games. He was the Sooners' top defensive playmaker as a senior with 10 sacks, 12 quarterback pressures and 17 tackles behind the line of scrimmage.

The Ravens still see that potential at the NFL level.

"He's relentless. He never stops," Pettine said. "He's like a shark. He's always on the move."

Cody has also shown that relentless attitude in trying to overcome his injuries.

Because of his exhaustive schedule to recover from his knee injuries, he has only returned home for 20 days since last July. He just hopes the hard work pays off.

"This kind of starts to wear on you and you think, 'Am I going to be able to get out there before my contract is up?'" said Cody, who is signed through 2008. "There is nothing you can do about it. I know I got a lot of respect here. They know it's not a lack of effort. They're as frustrated about it as I am."

Rhino

6/6/2007, 11:12 AM

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/8969/gregg01dm8.jpg

Rhino

6/6/2007, 11:26 AM

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/4695/rufus01bb1.jpg

Rapid Fire With Rufus Alexander (http://www.vikings.com/news_detail_objectname_rapidfire52907.html)
Mike Wobschall, vikings.com

Even though he was the 2006 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, Vikings rookie linebacker Rufus Alexander will be on a mission in 2007 to prove wrong all of those who passed on him in April's draft.

One might think that a player who earned a power-conference's defensive player of the year award would be worthy of more than a sixth-round pick. But the Vikings were able to grab the 6-1, 228-pound linebacker on day two of the draft and solidify a draft class that already contained Alexander's Oklahoma teammate, running back Adrian Peterson.

Alexander hails from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and earned All-State first-team honors as a senior in high school. He was ranked among nation's top 20 linebackers in the country by Prep Star and Super Prep during his senior year at Christian Life Academy and he showed his athleticism and versatility by also playing tight end.

At Oklahoma, Alexander led the Sooners in tackles during consecutive seasons and was named the Big 12's Defensive Player of the Year in 2006.

The Vikings conducted four days of Organized Team Activities (OTAs) last week and that gave me the chance to sit down with Rufus and discuss everything from tenth grade football to Michael Jordan to rollercoasters. Here is what transpired...

When did you start playing football?

I was in tenth grade when I started playing. It was fun. I had a great time going out there and hitting people. It was a lot different than basketball where you had referees out there calling fouls.

You played in a high profile program in college, explain the process of choosing Oklahoma as the place where you wanted to play college football.

It was fun. It was a great experience going over and visiting a lot of different places. I got to travel to places like Tennessee, Alabama and different places like that.

You got to play with Adrian Peterson in college. What type of teammate is he?

He is a great teammate. You can rely on him and you know he's always going to be giving it his all, trying to help his team win. He's a great competitor.

As you were growing up, which athlete did you enjoy watching the most?

Michael Jordan.

What is your favorite meal?

Hamburger steak with rice and gravy.

What is your favorite television show?

CSI: Miami or regular CSI.

If you could meet anyone, alive or dead, who would it be?

Michael Jordan.

Tell me something unique that you've found about Minnesota.

I'm not used to seeing rollercoasters in malls. I went to the mall earlier, but I want to get back there and get on a rollercoaster. I've got to check it out and live that experience.

Rhino

6/6/2007, 11:45 AM

http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_5952500

Stephen Alexander, at 31 the senior statesman among the Broncos' tight ends, when asked if he was sweating his roster spot after the Daniel Graham signing: "To be honest with you, no, the thought has never crossed my mind. ... I've had a great career. So if it ended today, I'd be extremely happy that I was able to do it for as long as I have." ...

Trust me, Alexander isn't going anywhere. The Broncos need numbers at that position, what with the coaches planning to use a ton of two-tight end formations

Rhino

6/6/2007, 12:01 PM

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/6922/dvoracek01uq7.jpg

Bears' Dvoracek has chance to make mark (http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2007/06/06/sports/nfl/bears/doc4666452e22233956266982.txt)
By NICK HUT

LAKE FOREST – Perhaps nobody has more at stake in the Bears’ off-season program than Dusty Dvoracek.

After not playing a snap last season, the second-year pro is the leading candidate to start at defensive tackle in the wake of Tank Johnson’s suspension.

That means Dvoracek must use the off-season program, which continues in high gear this month with a series of 12 voluntary practices, to master his position in ways he never got to do in 2006.

“It’s a great opportunity,” Dvoracek said.

Dvoracek, a third-round draft pick, suffered a stress fracture in his right foot during training camp last year and spent the season on injured reserve.

The Bears had high hopes for him as a rookie, but they also did not really miss him with a rotation that included Tommie Harris, Johnson, Ian Scott and Alfonso Boone.

But now Johnson is suspended for at least six games and as many as eight. Scott and Boone both left in free agency.

Anthony Adams came over from San Francisco in free agency, but he is a lighter, quicker player who projects as more of a backup to Harris than as a candidate to start at nose guard.

Backup Antonio Garay also returns, and general manager Jerry Angelo has not ruled out signing a role player-type.

“The guys who are here, including me, it’s our job to make sure there’s no drop-off from what we would have with Tank,” Dvoracek said. “We’re going to be very motivated to do that. Then, when he comes back, we’ll be that much stronger.”

Dvoracek has experience playing next to Harris, his college teammate at Oklahoma. In fact, Harris had his eye on Dvoracek as a possible selection going into the 2006 draft.

“I want him here,” Harris said days before the Bears picked Dvoracek.

“We both had so much success [that] we just really made our defense,” Dvoracek said. “Playing together will help him be a better player and help me be a better player.”

Dvoracek, 6-foot-3 and 303 pounds, is viewed as a physical and aggressive player with a knack for collapsing pockets and harassing quarterbacks via the bull rush. He was described in one draft guide as “tougher than nails” with “a thick, country-boy build.”

Dvoracek said he made valuable use of his rookie season on the sideline. He studied the defensive system and opposing offensive linemen. He worked harder than ever before in the weight room.

“Coach [Lovie] Smith told me every week, ‘You’re not going to be a rookie next year,’” Dvoracek said. “I’d have to go to meetings and I did everything with the team to get my rookie year out of the way.

“I’m more ready to go this year than I was last year.”
"Dusty Dvoracek is doing a great job working out right now." (http://www.post-trib.com/sports/414193,bears.article)

Rhino

6/6/2007, 12:09 PM

http://img74.imageshack.us/img74/1739/harrisbradleyhm3.jpg
Tommie Harris (middle) and Mark Bradley (right) at Harris' birthday party.

Tommie Harris donates to rec center (http://www.kdhnews.com/news/story.aspx?id=16377)
Posted on: Tuesday, June 05, 2007
By Kevin M. Smith
Killeen Daily Herald

A $165,000 donation from the Tommie Harris Foundation will be used to buy equipment for the fitness room at the new recreation center in Killeen.

Harris, a Killeen native and Ellison High School graduate who plays defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears, donated the money for the project that broke ground in December.

Harris and Bears teammate Charles Tillman were in town last week and held a football camp for children on Fort Hood.

The donation was first presented by Harris' father, Tommie Harris Sr., during last week's black-tie gala as part of Killeen's 125th birthday celebration.

The city of Killeen is building the new recreation center and senior center at Lions Club Park, 1600 Stan Schlueter Loop. Construction started in December but stalled after rain, ice and snow prevented the foundation from being poured.

"They're moving along fine now that we finally have the slab poured and (are) going vertical," said Glenn Morrison, Killeen Community Services director.

The fitness room at the 41,000-square-foot recreation center will be named the Tommie Harris Fitness Center for his contribution.

"It's the most significant contribution we've had toward this project," Morrison said.

The project also includes a new 14,000-square-foot senior citizens center.

Both buildings are expected to be finished by March 2008, the original projected date for completion.

"We're finally moving," Morrison said.

Rhino

6/11/2007, 01:39 PM

http://www.rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070605/SPORTS10/106050042/1001

Defensive tackle Tommie Harris’ status gains importance because of the NFL handing fellow tackle Tank Johnson an eight-game suspension on Monday.

Harris was throwing a football and running routes while palling around with cornerback Charles Tillman at the start of the Chicago Bears’ organized team activities on Monday.

No, Harris isn’t being converted to offense, like cornerback Devin Hester.

Harris didn’t participate in team drills held indoors at the Walter Payton Center at Halas Hall, but he showed — and said — he isn’t that far away.

Besides, he emphasized, what’s the hurry?

“I’m right on schedule, ahead of schedule,” said Harris, who missed the final part of the regular season and the playoffs after a hamstring injury. “We have nothing but time right now.

“It wouldn’t make any sense to come back early just to prove a point to people how fast I came back. So right now I’m into drills, flying around out there.”

Harris said he’s at Halas Hall from Monday through Friday “working out and rehabbing.”

Head coach Lovie Smith said “soon” when asked when Harris could go 100 percent. “I don’t know exactly when that will be,” Smith said. “It could be in Bourbonnais (for training camp, beginning July 27); it could be earlier than that. I hope for tomorrow.

“But as far as when, we just know he’s on schedule. We’ll get him back soon. Tommie’s one of the best players in the National Football League, so we can’t wait to get him back.”

Rhino

6/11/2007, 01:43 PM

Tidbits on our two Buffalo players:

Also seeing some extra work was seventh-round pick C.J. Ah You who worked at right defensive end with the second unit on defense. (http://www.buffalobills.com/news/news.jsp?news_id=4847)
The defense was at its most dominant at the close of practice as Paul Posluszny, Eric Bassey and Thaddaeus Washington had consecutive pass breakups. (http://www.buffalobills.com/news/news.jsp?news_id=4850)

Rhino

6/11/2007, 01:53 PM

http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/061007/jag_176065134.shtml

Rookies from 2006, such as linebacker Clint Ingram and running back Maurice Drew, also have spent time visiting with the rookie club.

"They give us all kinds of basic information about money, football life, just key points and things we need to know," said wide receiver Mike Walker, a third-round draft pick out of Central Florida this year. "Clint Ingram told us a crazy story about his rookie year. One time he opened his mailbox here at the facility, and he got a whole bunch of bills from family members with thank-you notes attached to them. That was kind of surprising."

Rhino

6/11/2007, 02:05 PM

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/bal-ravens0606,0,5790213.story?coll=bal-sports-football

Ivy hasn’t lost team’s confidence
Injuries and young talent cast doubt on Ravens cornerback
By Edward Lee - Sun Reporter
Originally published June 6, 2007, 10:23 PM EDT

Days after this year's draft, Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti walked into a meeting room filled with the cornerbacks from last season's roster and made one thing clear: The front office did not select a defensive back because it was satisfied with the Ravens' current group.

Those were comforting words to Corey Ivy.

Although Ivy played a pivotal role as the defense's nickel back last season, some football analysts had wondered whether he would return to the same position after enduring an injury-hindered year and with the Ravens featuring a plethora of young talent.

But Ivy said he is fully recovered from a lacerated kidney that forced him to miss three games last season, and defensive coordinator Rex Ryan confirmed that Ivy is still the first choice when opposing offenses go to a three wide-receiver set.

"That does give me a sense of more responsibility," Ivy said. "It shows that they're going to lean on me a little bit more to hold down that position."

Ivy, 30, held on to that status last season despite the presence of young cornerbacks Ronnie Prude, Evan Oglesby and Derrick Martin. Even though he had just one interception, Ivy recorded 17 tackles, six pass deflections, two sacks and two forced fumbles.

Even Ryan, who coached Ivy at the University of Oklahoma, said he would've been hard-pressed to envision the 5-foot-9, 188-pound Ivy having this kind of career in the NFL.

"This is a size-speed league, and those are two attributes that Corey doesn't have," Ryan said. "Corey can run, but he can't run like some of these guys. With his size, he's short. He's still a big man, but he's just short. Most guys are taller than he is and faster and all of that kind of stuff. But he finds a way to make it work.

"You can't measure that heart," Ryan continued, tapping his chest, "the determination, the willingness to work and study and be a professional. I think those are his main attributes."

Those qualities surfaced last year when Ivy suffered a lacerated kidney in a Monday night game against the Denver Broncos on Oct. 9. Ivy was in discomfort on the return flight and the plane landed in Pittsburgh so Ivy could be taken to the hospital. His status for the remainder of the season was uncertain, but he returned Nov. 12 against the Tennessee Titans.

"I feel good," Ivy said. "Last year after the injury, I was kind of hesitant in some areas about taking a shot. But I got a clean bill of health and am ready to go and try to better what we did last year."

Still, Ivy is aware that his younger teammates are eager to impress the coaching staff and take his job. It's a challenge that Ivy embraces.

"Everybody has a challenge out there," he said. "That's why you're out here -- to compete and try to make yourself better and the team better."

Rhino

6/11/2007, 02:11 PM

The ultimate guide to being a fan (http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=fanguide/070606)

Find Kelly Gregg: "Just come up to me! I don't care if I'm eating. But it's always nice if you buy me a beer while you're at it!" --Kelly Gregg, Ravens

soonerboy_odanorth

6/11/2007, 02:13 PM

Williams will play a bit at LB (http://www.star-telegram.com/332/story/102435.html)

So in other words, they are relieving him of the responsibility of covering the deep patterns, and are going to let him roam the middle of the field where he can CRACK SOME FREAKIN' SKULLS!

Daddy like...

Rhino

6/11/2007, 02:37 PM

Makes fun of Meni's site:

An Inconvenient Truth (http://vikings.scout.com/2/650665.html)
By John Holler
Posted Jun 11, 2007

We didn't have a photo of Al Gore in our archive, so here's one of the guy who beat him in the 2000 election. As a native Texan, his dislike for Oklahoma may pursuade him to pardon those who have taken Adrian Peterson's name and likeness on the Internet -- an Al Gore invention that he may someday regret.

Want to have some fun? Do a “Google” search of Adrian Peterson. Below a link that will show you photos of the Vikings' first-round draft pick, you will find a website called adrian-peterson.com.

The first thing you see is the website banner – with a photo of Peterson in what would look to be game action with the University of Oklahoma. He’s fully padded, ball tucked, whole nine yards.

Drop down below the 30-point type claiming the domain name is a “fan site,” the next sentence you read is as follows:

“Disclaimer: This site is not affiliated with, nor endorsed by [comma missing] the University of Oklahoma, nor Adrian Peterson, nor anyone associated with the Oklahoma Sooner football team nor [sic – no “the” in the sentence] Minnesota Vikings.”

Perhaps the first question one might ask would perhaps be “why would such a lengthy website called adrian-peterson.com have no affiliation with Peterson whatsoever?” Clearly not even a distant shoestring relative is involved. Next question?

The site is selling trading cards under the name Meni, Inc – which will allow you to make secure transactions to buy Peterson cards in groups of five for $25 or $30 a pop via the ever-popular Pay Pal (a trusted name in web-commerce). Next question? Why is this site called adrian-peterson.com?

Why is a site not affiliated with Adrian Peterson selling advertising to other websites selling trading cards and other assorted sports memorabilia? Does the non-affiliation disclaimer preclude Peterson, the Vikings, the NFL or anyone who sang “Boomer Sooner” for asking for a cut of the profits? Who knows? Next question?

Click on the “Adrian Peterson Pictures” link and what will you find? A link to NFLSHOP.com to buy replica home and road jerseys, but the tag line, “No matter where Adrian Peterson goes, you will be able to listen to all his games with Sirius Satellite Radio. All NFL games!!” It should be noted that the double exclamation points were inserted by the authors. VU frowns on exclamations points, much less a deuce. New linked advertising sites are included – highlighted by two sites to annoy friends and business associates with a “Boomer Sooner” ringtones. Next question?

Who took photos of A.P. at Winter Park? Interesting to those who look out for A.P.’s interest, there is a five-photo gallery of shots of Peterson from minicamp. For not being in any way affiliated with the Vikings, being inside Winter Park – for the record, I was there – to shoot those photos would seem to be a pre-requisite. The Vikes don’t have to like you – ask any columnist for the Star-Trib or P-2 – to allow you access to minicamps and OTAs. But they have to know you before you waltz in and start taking action shots. With no affiliation, how did adrian-peterson.com’s press corps get credentials? As an aside, if you’re looking for Raider jerseys, you can find them on this page. Next question? Why is “StubHub” affiliated with a non-affiliated site? Next (bigger) question?

What can I find at A.P.’s video page? Among other things, advertisements for cleaning up the worst messes with the help of Mr. Clean, a football training video from a company that is unaware how “school” is accurately spelled and – don’t quit reading this to go to the site just yet – the chance to download “Free Ski Movies!!” I put those two exclamation points in despite VU’s policy against such heresy. Next question?

Did FOX Sports sign off on the video use of an advertisement-selling website to use Peterson’s appearance on the FSN show “Best Damn Sports Show Period?” (Note: we’re not sure if BDSSP puts an exclamation point in the show name, but here’s hoping not). Next question?

Why don’t the college school links work on the A.P. stat page? Click on stats and then attempt to go to the opponent website. Sad as it is, java.lang, as Ricky Ricardo would say, “has some ‘splaining to do.” Whether opponents like Bowling Green or bitter rival Texas, they’re not signing on to link to an unaffiliated website. Good for them. Next question?

Why when you click on the “GoBig.Fathead.com” link, do you get a great nostril-shot of LaBron James? Is he affiliated with the site A.P. has nothing to do with? Hmmm. Next question?

How can I get Adrian Peterson wallpaper? What? Are you kidding? Where else? In fact, one of the cooler wallpaper offerings is one of A.P. photoshopped over the Minneapolis skyline holding up a jersey that clearly says “1” (by the way, I was there when that photo was taken, too) with a tagline saying “All Day 28” – a reference to his college days at OU. Can I steal that phrase and trademark it? Probably already been done by the brain trust at adrian-peterson.com. Next question?

Why, when I drop my cursor down the screen, do I find out there is another website called adpeterson.com? It just gets curiouser and curiouser. Next question?

Why does the unaffiliated A.P. website’s personal blog have as a header “Americans spend as much on adult entertainment as they do on professional sporting events?” Is that manifesto profound in some way? Sports or porn? Don’t make us choose. Next question?

Tell me there’s not a website called adrianpeterson.28.com? Ouch. Not only is there such a site, it has joined forces with adrian-peterson.com in advertising-laden man-love for A.P. That’s genuine man-on-man affection. Next question?

Word on the street (or at least adrianpeterson.28.com) is that A.P.’s only autograph signing in the “southwest” will be in Plano, Texas on June 22. What if you can’t make it there? There’s a phone number you can call to have an unknown “friend” get that bad boy done for you. Next question?

Should that same signing “opportunity” be claiming in yellow type with a link to a FOX Sports story that Peterson is a “Potential Hall of Famer” before he’s played a down? Ponderable? O.K. maybe I’m nitpicking now, but it is a tad askew. Next question?

I’m tiring of questions, but one more has to come to mind. At the home page of the site is a photo suitable for framing of Peterson and Zygi Wilf. It’s uncredited, so I hoped by clicking on the photo, I would find which member of the staff took such a perfect photo. Instead, NFLSHOP.com was my companion. I think I would have remembered a photographer from that website by his long lens and oversized red foam OU hat. Guess I missed him. Who took that award-winning photo? No red-eye. No eyes closed. No broccoli in the teeth. It was perfect. I’d like to shake the hand of that award-winning lensman. I was there. I had the chance. Who was he?

We shouldn’t shed tears for Peterson. He’s going to make a ton of cash. Apparently so will the purveyors of websites that profit from his name and/or likeness. To be honest, I am interested in downloading free ski video, but that’s my cross to bear. The experience was a positive for me. But who’s to blame for such a system that allows such legal identity theft? Al Gore. He invented the Internet and now the chickens have come home to roost. An inconvenient truth indeed. http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/8973/peterson04lb5.jpg

PAW

6/11/2007, 02:50 PM

Pool's time is now (http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/article.php?id=6857)

Steve King, Staff Writer 06.10.2007

It's two years later than most people thought it would happen, but Browns safety Brodney Pool might get his chance to be a full-time starter in 2007.

Pool, now entering his third season, has been working with the No. 1 defense at free safety throughout the practices in the organized team activities, and should still be when the Browns open the regular season on Sept. 9 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Pool actually started eight games -- or exactly half the season -- in 2006, but there needs to be an asterisk attached to that. The Browns were so depleted at cornerback because of injuries that they used the athletic, 6-foot-2, 208-pound Pool, who has good speed and coverage skills to go along with his size, as a hybrid cornerback in four games.

Then when the injury bug spread to the other part of the defensive backfield and starting free safety Brian Russell was lost for the year with an infected elbow, Pool moved there and started for the final four games of the season.

But Russell was allowed to go to the Seattle Seahawks in free agency in the offseason, thus clearing the way for Pool to move in as the permanent starter.

It is where he was expected to be all along.

The Browns were ecstatic at being able to get Pool with the second pick of the second round, at No. 34 overall, in the 2005 NFL Draft. Under new general manager Phil Savage and new head coach Romeo Crennel, the Browns were moving in a new direction, letting both of their starting safeties from the previous three years, Robert Griffith and Earl Little, depart after the 2004 campaign.

The Browns then signed Russell, a restricted free agent from the Minnesota Vikings, and the thought was that he would be paired with Pool in the starting lineup. It seemed to be a good mix -- the veteran Russell, who is more than happy to share his knowledge with younger players, acting as a coach on the field in helping Pool

It didn't work out that way, however. Russell did indeed start in 2005, but his partner was not Pool but rather Chris Crocker, a holdover from the previous year.

Pool played in 13 games that year, appearing mostly in the dime package.

When Crocker was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in the ensuing offseason, it was assumed that Pool, albeit a year late, would join Russell at safety in 2006.

The rise of Sean Jones was legitimate. He took his good play right into the regular season, getting off to a fast start and ending up tied with Daven Holly for the team lead in interceptions with five.

Jones is back for 2007 and could be paired with Pool. Finally, it's the latter's time.

"It feels good to be in there," Pool said after practice the other day. "I've prayed about it and thought about it a lot."

"What people don't realize is that I was just a young guy when I came here (he opted for the draft after his junior season at Oklahoma)," he said. "I had to be patient. I had a lot to learn. I knew my time would eventually come, and it has."

He added, "My situation was a lot like that of a young quarterback coming into the league. If they rush you and put you out there before you're ready, you'll make a lot of mistakes and mess yourself up. You can ruin yourself.

"But I didn't have to go through that. I was able to sit on the side and watch. I was able to develop slowly."

Pool is hardly a finished product. He's still just 23 -- by only several weeks, in fact -- and is still getting his feet wet in the pros. He has plenty of room to grow.

But now that growth will be on the field -- all the time. Being so much more mature and knowledgeable than he was in 2005 -- or even last year, for that matter -- he can handle it.

Rhino

6/11/2007, 02:55 PM

http://www.kstp.com/article/stories/S108444.shtml?cat=7

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson: 'I Feel Like I'll Be In Camp On Time'

It was Friday afternoon, June 8th. Most of the Vikings players and front office personnel worked feverishly, building a new playground for a St. Paul school. Lots of smiles and sweat from the players and staff, but it created an atmosphere of abounding joy for those kids. Adrian Peterson was one of them (A Vikings player and kid at heart). The Vikings 2007 1st-round draft pick took a 10-minute break, in between shoveling and raking, to do this interview. I shook his hand. It was an extremely FIRM handshake. I was always taught to give a firm handshake, but this was a real FIRM handshake. Peterson was ready to talk and dabbled in an occasional, 'Yes, sir.' That caught me off-guard, and made me feel old. Heck, I'm only 35. And since when do pro athletes call anyone in the media, 'Sir'? I was impressed.

The Contract and Training Camp

First things first. Let's delve into meatier matters. The Vikings took Peterson with the 7th overall pick in the draft. That means he won't be cheap to sign. And keep in mind, there are rookies that have historically held-out parts of training camp over stalled contract negotiations. Last year, Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway was signed just before camp and arrived on time. But in 2005, DE Erasmus James and WR Troy Williamson were signed on August 1st and 8th, each missing a portion of camp. So what will happen with Peterson?

"I feel like I'll be in camp on time. My agent, Ben Dogra, he does a great job. I hope there's no problem. I don't see any problem coming," Peterson said. "It's very important for me to go out and help my team. And help us reach our goals."

But how much will Peterson cost? In the NFL, rookie salaries are slotted from the top down. Every year the costs go up. By comparison, last year's 7th overall pick was Oakland's Michael Huff. He signed a 5-year, $22.5 million dollar contract that could exceed $43 million dollars with incentives and $15 million dollars of it is guaranteed. That's certainly a model that Peterson's agent will follow.

Vikings head coach Brad Childress doesn't want training camp distractions and he does want Peterson ready to play on day one. A hold-out for even a few days can be a distraction and it's valuable practice time lost for the player, especially a rookie. "I'm sure we'll give him what's fair," Childress said Friday. "Obviously those things get slotted but all in due time."

Peterson's broken collarbone is on the mend. It was highly-publicized before the draft but it doesn't require surgery and he should be fine by training camp. I asked Peterson if that could be a sore spot in negotiations.

"No. Not at all. It's put aside. It's all in the past. They're going to go off of what they see and how I'm performing and how I'm coming out every day working my butt off."

Fitting In

Throughout my interview with Peterson, Pat Williams, the Vikings defensive tackle, piped in a few jokes about Peterson. He clearly loves razzing the rookie. "We can't touch him right now. Until he signs his contract. I give him a hard time all day, every day," Williams said.

"I'm getting used to that. I don't take it to heart," Peterson said. "Our leaders are just messing with me-just giving me a hard time. Half of these guys, they are comedians. They keep me laughing with a smile on my face.I'm fitting in. I love the city."

A minute or two later, a young child comes up to us during the interview and motions for Peterson to sign an autograph. I laugh and nod. He laughs and nods and signs.

"It feels good, giving back to the community and helping to build this playground for the kids. I can remember back when (he was a kid in Palestine, Texas), you know, they came (a local high school team) and did the same thing for us back in Texas. A group of guys came out and helped put our playground together and we really enjoyed that, so it's my turn to fill those shoes now and I'm going to enjoy every minute."

Peterson comes across as a young man filled with expectation and gratitude. He counts his blessings. He's had a few hard knocks. In his childhood, a drunk driver killed his brother Brian. Peterson's father, Nelson, was arrested for laundering drug money. His dad spent 10 years in prison and didn't witness one of Peterson's games in person until last year at Oklahoma. So Peterson's perseverance is truly amazing, regardless of what he does on the football field. But he also knows, that he will now be judged by millions on what he does on Sundays. College was fun and games. The NFL is a billon-dollar industry. He's modified his approach to the game.

"Be dedicated. It's a business. You have to go out there and there are some things in your personal life that you have to put aside and no that I have to spend more time studying doing this. Learn the playbook and all the protections. This is what it's all about now."

Rhino

6/11/2007, 02:59 PM

http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=118&p=2&c=649622&ssf=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2fravens.scout.com%2f2%2f6 49622.html

NOTES: Wide receiver Mark Clayton returned to practice after missing the first day of minicamp for a good reason. Clayton’s wife is pregnant and they had a doctor’s appointment.

“I had to take care of her,” he said. “We don’t have any family out here, so I had to step up for her. Everything is good, she’s great.”

PAW

6/12/2007, 11:54 AM

Tommie Harris (http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3511#)

LAKE FOREST, Ill. – The Bears defense received a major boost Monday when defensive tackle Tommie Harris and cornerback Charles Tillman both returned to the practice field.

Harris had been sidelined since last Dec. 3 when he tore a hamstring tendon in his left leg in a division-clinching win over the Minnesota Vikings. Tillman had been out since undergoing minor back surgery shortly after Super Bowl XLI.

Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris established a career high with five sacks in 12 games last season.
“It felt good and I wasn’t even pushing it really hard yet,” Harris said after Monday’s OTA workout.

Harris was cleared to practice after being examined last Friday in Dallas by Dr. Dan Cooper, who performed the surgical procedure on the two-time Pro Bowler along with Bears team physician Dr. Mark Bowen.

“I’ve seen a lot of guys come back from this injury,” Harris said. “[Ravens middle linebacker] Ray Lewis made the Pro Bowl last year. If he could do it, I believe I can do it.

“I feel good right now. Dr. Cooper said I might be faster the way they tightened it up. So my explosion felt good. Everything went well; we’ll just see how it goes.”

Harris insisted that the chances of re-injuring his surgically-repaired hamstring are minute.

“Nothing’s wrong with my hamstring,” he said. “It’s the tendon that popped, just like if I tore my bicep or pec. I don’t have any defects in my hamstring. I didn’t pull my hamstring. [The injury] can’t come back. They put sutures in my bone and hooked it back.”

Despite being lost for the season after 12 games, Harris was selected to his second straight Pro Bowl after recording 48 tackles with five sacks, two tackles-for-loss, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

In 2005, the former Oklahoma star was named All-Pro after registering 59 tackles with three sacks, seven tackles-for-loss, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

Harris, the 14th pick in the 2005 draft, was asked if he felt comfortable being labeled the best defensive tackle in the NFL.

“I think I train hard enough to receive that as a compliment, but I’m not satisfied, I’m not finished,” he said. “We’ll just see where it goes from there.”

PAW

6/12/2007, 11:56 AM

From the same article as above, JD Runnels waived (http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3511#) by the Bears after injuring his knee. :(

There was also news at the fullback position Monday as second-year pro J.D. Runnels was waived/injured and Obafemi Ayanbadejo, the brother of Bears special teams standout Brendon Ayanbadejo, participated in practice on a tryout basis.

Runnels injured his knee last week during an OTA workout. The 2006 sixth-round draft pick from Oklahoma appeared in two games last season on special teams.

Rhino

6/18/2007, 10:21 AM

[/URL]:(

[URL="http://browns.scout.com/2/651797.html"]Browns Release CB Antonio Perkins (http://browns.scout.com/2/651797.html)

A little over two years after he was selected as the Browns fourth-round pick in the 2005 draft, the team has elected to part ways with CB Antonio Perkins. The selection has been considered emblematic of a weak second day for Phil Savage during that year's draft, conducted only a couple of months after he took over as the team's General Manager.

The release of Perkins has been predicted by OBR commentators for some time and hardly comes as a surprise as the team heads towards the opening of its 2007 training camp at the end of July. Perkins has failed to contribute either as a cornerback or punt returner, and was likely doomed by the selection of Eric Wright and Brandon McDonald in this year's draft, along with the signing of free agent CB Kenny Wright.

Perkins' success as a college punt returner failed to translate with the Browns, where writers and fans often scratched their heads over the lack of opportunity given to Perkins to show his abilities as a punt returner. While Dennis Northcutt held the position until this off-season, Perkins was rarely seen returning punts during training camp (the team closes practices partway through the pre-season). The team has focused on Josh Cribbs as heir apparent to Northcutt, but are also allowing other players such as rookie Syndric Steptoe to compete for the position.

While with the Sooners, Perkins was a consensus All-American as a return specialist, setting the school mark for career punt return yards. A remarkable 277 punt return yards in a single game against UCLA in 2003 set a Division 1-A, and tied the NCAA record with eight punt returns for touchdowns during his college career.

Rhino

6/18/2007, 10:28 AM

Who is Ah You? He's the newest Bill (http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/2007/06/bills-whois-cjahyou140607.html)

C.J. Ah You already has the best name of a Buffalo Bills player since Elbert Dubenion, one that will look cool on the back of a jersey, but he has to make the squad first. Ah You is for now officially a Bill, having signed a contract this week, and if you didn't watch the draft until its brutal end, he was the team's final selection.

It's going to be a tough proposition for him to make the active roster, especially when one considers who's playing in front of him at defensive end, but Ah You has an interesting enough background to at least give him a few moments of attention.

Unfortunately, Ah You has a blue-and-white checkered past. He left Brigham Young University after violating team policy, namely by fighting a teammate; in his defense, I would have lasted about 45 minutes at BYU, and, if I attempted to sign the school's honor code, I would have been incinerated by lightning. Regardless, he had to move on, ending up at Oklahoma, where he kept his nose clean enough to merit being chosen instead of having to search out a free-agent contract following the draft.

You can be sure that Captain Bringdown himself, Bills General Manager Marv Levy, checked out Ah You's story and made sure the fight was an aberration in his background. It also didn't hurt that Levy coached Ah You's uncle, a fellow defensive end who goes by the somehow even neater-sounding name of Junior Ah You, for Montreal in the CFL; but Levy doesn't seem like the type who would waste a draft pick on a guy as a favor to a former player, even for an Alouette and (Canadian) football Hall of Famer.

Instead, this looks like a case where the GM's familiarity with a player's gene pool was enough to warrant scouting the next generation. His father Charles also played at BYU as a running back; factoring in Levy's direct familiarity with Uncle Ah You's abilities, the team figured, if nothing else, C.J. at least had the lineage to be worth the latest of the late picks.

But Ah You's career still raises questions. An even bigger concern than off-field issues is on-field ones, namely regarding whether Ah You can stay there. He missed all of 2002 with a knee problem and was plagued by more minor troubles to the joint throughout his early time in college. But those seem to be in the past, if not the all-too-distant kind, as he was able to remain healthy and on the field during his two-year Oklahoma career.

Ah You was selected to the All-Big 12 First Team last year, accumulating 41 total tackles and four sacks. At OU, he showed more of a propensity for eluding blockers than flattening them. He's smoother than he is powerful, a quick guy who's going to make offensive linemen whiff as opposed to a brute who's going to bowl over the offensive line. Let's be frank: Aaron Schobel isn't fretting over this signing, but Ah You could give the staff another backup choice, and even the Sunday inactives provide options and insurance.

The Bills already had depth at defensive end, with two lockdown starters and guys like Ryan Denney and Anthony Hargrove ready to rotate in, so now they've got super-duper depth.

The best news, though, is what this means for their other picks, namely that they're now that much closer to really being Bills. That first guy agreeing to a contract usually means the process of signing the big deal, early-round guys is soon to be underway, and any progress toward turning any draftees into official players is positive news.

More directly, getting anything out of the final pick is always good, and the first step toward that possibility has been taken with Ah You's new contract.

Rhino

6/18/2007, 10:32 AM

:(

The Ravens won't know until next month whether linebacker Dan Cody will need knee surgery, which could end his season. (http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/football/bal-sp.ravens15jun15,0,5067227.story?coll=bal-sports-headlines)

Rhino

6/18/2007, 10:34 AM

NFC Focus: Ranking the offensive tackles (http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=222075)

4. SAINTS Jammal Brown adjusted to the left side quicker than anyone could have expected and made the Pro Bowl in his second season. Right tackle Jon Stinchcomb is dependable. Top 50 players: In with the new, out with some of the old (http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10225498)

24. Jammal Brown, T, New Orleans Saints: His move from the right side to the left side was a smooth one. It earned him his first trip to the Pro Bowl. He will be there for a lot of years.

Rhino

6/18/2007, 10:48 AM

Top 50 players: In with the new, out with some of the old (http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10225498)

28. Tommie Harris, DT, Chicago Bears: He's coming off a hamstring injury, but when he's healthy he's a major disrupter inside. The Bears really missed him in the Super Bowl.

Rhino

6/18/2007, 10:53 AM

ChicagoBears.com: (http://www.chicagobears.com/news/ChalkTalkStory.asp?story_id=3518)

Larry: I’ve heard that fullback J.D. Runnels has been released by the Bears and I’ve also heard that he will be placed on injured reserve. What’s the deal?

Phillip J.
Oak Lawn, Illinois

Phillip: The Bears waived/injured J.D. Runnels, meaning that he will land on the Bears’ injured reserve list if he isn’t claimed by another NFL team by Thursday (June 14) evening. Runnels, a 2006 sixth-round draft pick from Oklahoma, tore his left ACL last Tuesday during an OTA practice. So, sounds like he's on the Bears' IR now. That's good news.

Rhino

6/18/2007, 11:21 AM

Palestine Set To Host 'Adrian Peterson Day' (http://www.tylerpaper.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070613/SPORTS/706130303)

On June 23, the City of Palestine will honor favorite son Adrian "All Day" Peterson with "Adrian Peterson Day."

Peterson, a Palestine High School graduate and Heisman Trophy runner-up at Oklahoma, recently was selected by the Minnesota Vikings with the seventh overall pick in the NFL Draft.

"Adrian is our light, he's our sunshine here," event organizer Carol Pegues said. "We are just honoring him because he's brought some real joy to our city. We watched him from high school, college and now professionally."

The event will include a 10 a.m. parade beginning at the Anderson County Courthouse and ending in Old Town Palestine, and a presentation at Wildcat Stadium.

Peterson will be given a proxy to the city at the presentation, where June 23 will be named "Adrian Peterson Day."

"(Adrian) has really put Palestine on the map," Pegues said. "Everybody is really excited about it. Adrian has pulled Palestine together."

Expected to attend the event are former Palestine head coach Jeff Harrell and representatives from Oklahoma and the Vikings, Pegues said.

In high school, Peterson was the nation's top-ranked recruit at running back. He chose to cross the Red River and attend Oklahoma, where he set a freshman record for rushing yards in a season en route to finishing runner-up in the Heisman Trophy race.

He entered the NFL Draft after his junior season.

For more information on "Adrian Peterson Day", contact Pegues at 972-816-5149.

Rhino

6/18/2007, 11:32 AM

Carroll County Times: (http://www.carrollcountytimes.com/articles/2007/06/14/sports/sports3.txt)

NOTES: Offensive line coach Chris Foerster reiterated that second-year lineman Chris Chester will enter training camp as the starting right guard, but will face competition from incumbent Keydrick Vincent and first-round draft pick Ben Grubbs.

Rhino

6/18/2007, 11:35 AM

Clayton ready for next step (http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/06_13-19/SPO)

Ravens' wide receiver elevates expectations
By AARON WILSON Carroll County Times

OWINGS MILLS - It was already too late of a reaction, even if Evan Oglesby didn't immediately realize that Mark Clayton was setting him up for a fall.
First, Clayton sold an intermediate out pattern and froze Oglesby with a jab step. Then, the Baltimore Ravens' starting wide receiver finished off the reserve cornerback by adeptly changing directions and accelerating into a crisp fly pattern.

During this familiar minicamp sequence that unfolded last week at the Ravens' training complex, Clayton left Oglesby several yards behind by sprinting into the open field to settle under a Steve McNair spiral for yet another touchdown catch.

As the Ravens conclude their spring workouts with a voluntary minicamp that ends tomorrow, Clayton is looking to build upon last year's breakthrough season. The reigning AFC North champions are counting on even more production from Clayton as a featured performer in its West Coast offense.

"It's a huge difference," Clayton said last week following the Ravens' mandatory minicamp. "I'm just settling down, calming down. Knowing what I did last year, I have a different set of expectations. Not only for me, but for the team as a whole.

"Each and every Sunday I'm in the locker room just waiting for a chance. Last year was fun and exciting. So, I'm taking it a day at a time and trying to just be better tomorrow than I was yesterday."

It's that attention to detail and an uninterrupted string of good health that has Clayton, 24, and the Ravens encouraged about his potential entering his third NFL season.

Last season, the 2005 first-round draft pick from Oklahoma registered a career-high 67 receptions and five touchdowns for a team-high 939 receiving yards. He generated 42 first downs, and caught an 87-yard touchdown in the Ravens' victory over the Kansas City Chiefs that marks the longest play of his career.

Spurring Clayton's motivation going forward is the disappointing ending to last season's franchise-record 13-3 finish.

Although Clayton caught six passes for 73 yards in his NFL postseason debut, the Ravens' offense was extremely ineffective overall as Baltimore took a 15-6 loss against the eventual Super Bowl champion Indianapolis Colts in an AFC divisional playoff at M&T Bank Stadium.

"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."

At 5-foot-10 and a compact 195 pounds, Clayton has gained roughly 10 pounds this offseason to boost his endurance and tackle-breaking ability. Last season, he averaged 14 yards per reception as his emergence and rookie Demetrius Williams' increased role cut into veteran Derrick Mason's opportunities during the second half of the schedule.

"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."

Clayton, who missed a practice last week to accompany his pregnant wife to a doctor's appointment, is no longer plagued by the nagging hamstring strain that he dealt with throughout his rookie year and for a brief period during training camp last summer.

Although Clayton didn't go so far as to knock on his wooden locker stall while proclaiming himself completely injury-free during an interview, he expressed relief to finally have a clean bill of health.

"So far, so good," Clayton said. "I'm not complaining."

Rhino

6/18/2007, 11:41 AM

Williams happy with new role in Phillips' scheme (http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/APStories/stories/D8PLKU9G1.html)
Associated Press

Count Roy Williams among the Dallas Cowboys happy with the changes made by new head coach Wade Phillips.

After leading the Cowboys with five interceptions last season but criticized for often getting beat on deep throws, Williams said Saturday that Phillips has tailored the 3-4 scheme to make things a little different for him.

Among the changes: Williams will play closer to the line of scrimmage, with some new plays allowing him to take advantage of his reputation as a hard-hitting pass rusher.

"Coach Phillips said they installed some plays for me, and I'm looking forward to it," Williams said. "Wade said he's going to put his players in position to make plays. It does feel a little bit better coming to work knowing that I'm going to be able to get a little more involved in the defense."

The Cowboys wrap up their voluntary workouts Sunday at their Valley Ranch headquarters. Players won't report again until training camp starts July 24 in San Antonio.

A Pro Bowler in four of his five NFL seasons, Williams said lining up six or seven yards away from the ball instead of 15 will be a significant change.

"That's a huge difference," Williams said. "When I'm closer to the ball, rather than being deep, I can beat a lineman to a certain point where he's trying to keep me from being, instead of being 15 yards back, where I've got to run and then stop my momentum and then try to get around a lineman."

The addition of former Seahawks safety Ken Hamlin, another hard hitter who can provide pass coverage, also allows the Cowboys some leeway in shifting Williams around.

"Ken has a lot of range, playing deep balls and his communication back there," Williams said. "It's really beneficial, and I appreciate us bringing him in."

Hamlin is also happy to team up with Williams.

"To have that guy lining up next to me, with the corners that we have, and with the defensive line, it's going to be a good situation," he said. BroadcastNewsroom.com: (http://production.broadcastnewsroom.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=151581)

The next installment of the Let's Just Play Go Healthy Challenge (http://www.nick.com/letsjustplay) airs Sunday, June 24 at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT on Nickelodeon. Through Nickelodeon's Let's Just Play Go Healthy Challenge, developed to fight childhood obesity, in partnership with The Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a joint initiative between the American Heart Association and the William J. Clinton Foundation, the network is helping kids change the outcome of their generation and measuring their pledges to adopt healthier lifestyles by offering plans for better diet and exercise.

Episode three of the Let's Just Play Go Healthy Challenge features a guest appearance from Dallas Cowboys' Safety Roy Williams in this month's "Work out Like A Pro" segment. Williams, who teaches kids the importance of balance as relates to both exercise and lifestyle. He takes viewers through his balance strengthening exercises and teaching kids the importance of a balanced diet.

tulsaoilerfan

6/18/2007, 09:26 PM

So what happened to Dan Cody? He get hurt again?

Rhino

6/19/2007, 12:36 AM

So what happened to Dan Cody? He get hurt again? Yes. link (http://www.soonerfans.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1922549&postcount=62)

critical_phil

6/19/2007, 02:24 AM

Clayton ready for next step (http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/06_13-19/SPO)

one of the coolest customers to ever wear the C&C.

thanks for the update, Rhino.

Scott D

6/21/2007, 04:24 PM

Perkins picked up off waivers by the Colts today.

Rhino

6/26/2007, 12:02 PM

Calvin Thibodeaux was cut (http://calsun.canoe.ca/Sports/Football/2007/06/24/4286005-sun.html) by the Calgary Stampeders, then joined the practice squad (after originally declining) (http://calsun.canoe.ca/Sports/Football/2007/06/25/4288153-sun.html).

Rhino

6/26/2007, 12:12 PM

Cowboys prospect gains world of experience (http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/story/146593.html)
By MICHAEL PRESTON
Special to the Star-Telegram

FRANKFURT, Germany -- Remi Ayodele believes he is ready to compete for a Cowboys roster spot thanks to the guidance of a former Super Bowl winner with the Baltimore Ravens.

Ayodele will play for the World Bowl XV title when the defending champion Frankfurt Galaxy faces the Hamburg Sea Devils today.

The defensive tackle has benefited from the teachings of his position coach, Cornell Brown. Brown, a former linebacker, played his entire seven-year career with the Ravens.

Sent to Frankfurt by the Cowboys to develop his skills and fundamentals, Ayodele, a former South Grand Prairie High School standout, has 15 tackles and a sack for the 7-3 Galaxy and has excelled on special teams.

His brother, Akin, plays linebacker for the Cowboys.

"My experience here has been really good," said Ayodele, who started eight of 10 games. "I was fortunate to have a great coach who taught me a lot of things I didn't know and everything I needed to work on when I first got here.

"I could tell as the season went on that my game got a lot better. I improved my hands, a lot of technique and hitting off blocks and finishing on my pass block moves. Hopefully, my team back at home thinks that I did that as well."

Brown said he believes the former Oklahoma lineman, who has spent time on the practice squads of the Cowboys, Baltimore Ravens and New England Patriots, will be a surprise package.

"I think from Day One, since he got here, he has definitely improved," Brown said. "His overall aggressiveness, going out and making plays and being more assertive has been the biggest thing for him. He was inconsistent at first and that was one of the things that brought him over here.

"Now he's showed that he knows how to practice hard and that shows in the game. He's making plays and people are physically seeing what they saw in him in college."

The first issue Ayodele will address when he returns to Dallas will be his fitness. A monthlong training camp and 10-week NFL Europa season leading into NFL camp has taken its toll on his 6-foot-2, 295-pound frame.

"I think I'm going to be all right," he said. "I'll probably go home and rest for a week, but I'll have to keep on running because you don't want to get out of shape. I know my brother is going to stay on me. He won't let me relax, even if I want to.

"I came out here a little over, but now I'm down to the right weight and have maintained it. The team did well with the food out here."

The food might have been fine, but there were other off-field adjustments to be made.

"Apart from the strange language and trying to get around the city, there were no refills and little cups," Ayodele said. "It took maybe two weeks to get adjusted. I wanted to make the most of it and I really enjoyed Germany. I'm planning on coming back to visit whenever I have time off."

But first comes the World Bowl and a clash with a Hamburg opponent that split the season series with the Galaxy and also finished with a 7-3 record.

"Playing here in Frankfurt, we have fans who are really loud," he said. "It sounds like there are a hundred thousand fans blowing horns and whistles, so I'm expecting this weekend to be really crazy and loud and a great atmosphere all the time.

"But one thing my coach has taught me is to watch the ball and not worry about noise and all those distractions."

Clearly, Cornell Brown's message is getting through.http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/8934/ayodele01up9.jpg