Rumors from the Combine (1 Viewer)

*Look for veteran Billy Volek's name to surface in Atlanta. Even though they'll likely draft a quarterback 3rd overall, they need a veteran to start fresh and keep the seat warm. Volek is favorite of owner Arthur Blank, who offered him a deal once before to back up Michael Vick, but instead he went back to Tenneessee.

*Look for Byron Leftwich's name to possibly surface in San Francisco. Martz thinks he can re-energize him and Alex Smith's support in the Bay Area is on life support.

*Carolina wide receiver Keary Colbert is also very interested in playing the slot for Martz. His agent confirmed that to us.

*Kansas City is interested in quarterback Brian Brohm and have talked to his agents

*Oakland is clearly looking for D-Line help and it appears their relationship with Tommie Kelley is close to over.....The Raiders staff has been told that this year they will be rebuilding both the offensive and defensive lines in the draft....They also don't see running back Lamont Jordan coming back in Oakland.

*Tatum Bell and Julius Jones have been linked to Tennessee, Tampa Bay and Carolina

*Baltimore appears ready to admit defeat and they will rebuild the offensive line. They feel that last year was an aberration because of injuries and they realize that they still have enough on offense to win, with even Kyle Boller, but their offensive line has gotten awfully porous lately.

*Marcus Stroud's longevity is clearly in doubt. His microfracture ankle surgery is really not responding and there is serious concern that he may never make it back to earn the money he signed for last year. The signing of Grady Jackson for two years was obviously done for this reason. They are also interested in bringing in Rod Coleman for a look see.

*In Jacksonville they are excited with the emergence of young linebackers Clint Ingram and Justin Durant, so there is also talk that Mike Peterson days may be numbered....They also would love to pry Laveranues Coles from New York to bring him back home, so don't be surprised if thes two teams dance on draft day....Jax is also in the Justin Smith sweepstakes and has shown interest in veteran free agent wide receivers Bryant Johnson and Dante Stallworth.

*Flozell Adams is now getting love from Kansas City, Baltimore and Atlanta

*Carolina is still toying with trading Julius Peppers

*Arizona is also still considering trading Larry Fitzgerald and there is still smoke around Ocho Cinco's stay in Cincy....I keep hearing that Mike Brown is willing to do something with Chad Johnson if Chad is willing to give back some bonus money pre trade and the new team will give him a new deal.

*Tennessee is hot for free agent wide reciever Bernard Berrian and recent cap cut tight Alge Crumpler....Tennessee is not really that hot for running back Tatum Bell, contrary to media reports. They are, however, talking to Julius Jones' folks....Jones and Bill Parcells were spotted eating together Thursday night, which has fueled some rumor mongering that the Miami Dolphins are after him

*Also, the Bears are shopping running back Cedric Benson. Good luck finding takers!

*Tennessee also seems interested in Texas A&M defensive tackle Red Bryant. He and Albert Haynesworth would be a tremendous tandem

*Most scouts think all the good values at wide receiver will be in round two, and few will go in round one now that Malcolm Kelly has pulled out of the combine with a severe quad hematoma. Insider word is he may not be able to work out for 4-6 weeks.

*The number of red flagged draftees (injuries) is surprising low this year. That's a good sign....The offensive line talent in this draft is deeper than I thought. Steelers staff said its the best in 25 years, in their opinion.

*Ohio State defensive end Vernon Gholston is moving up, as is Virginia's Chris Long....But Auburn's Quentin Groves is really causing a stir here. He met with 49ers' head coach Mike Nolan and told him your going to be sorry you traded the 7th pick for Staley after I run a 4.4 forty! Big Talk, but if he does he will be a top 10 pick for sure.

*The New York Jets and Miami Dolphins want to sign Dallas Cowboys free agent tackle Flozell Adams

*Wide receiver Javon Walker is rumored to be heading to Tampa Bay.

*Vanderbilt wide receiver Earl Bennett has been at Chip Smith's joint in Atlanta working out with Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall and Tony Scheffler since Jan 10. Word is, Cutler is telling Denver Broncos head coach Mike Shannahan to draft Bennett, which isn't surprising.

*Our main source has four running backs he loves in rounds two or three -- Justin Forsett, Ray Rice, Steve Slaton and Matt Forte. Only Forte has a medical issue, but it is not likely to be a big deal on draft day.

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

*The New York Giants are rumored to have completed a deal Thursday Night at St. Elmo's Steak House to send pick number 31 to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for disgruntled, but talented, cornerback DeAngelo Hall. Again, that's a hot rumor, but our main source has not confirmed it yet.Tulane running back Matt Forte has a knee that worries some, but the looseness is from an old PCL tear and is not felt to be an issue at all. He has gained a ton of interest here in Indy and seems quite popular with scouts. He is a classic edge and cut runner.

*Kentucky wide receiver Keenan Burton might have set the record for plain X-rays at the combine due to all the broken bones he got in the SEC.

*Louisville quarterback Brian Brohm got a good work over Thursday, which is no surprise considering his injury history. His right ACL repair checked out and his left Labrum looked fully healed and should not bother him at the next level.

*Oregon quarterback Dennis Dixon and Wisconsin cornerback Jack Ikegwuonu both suffered devastating knee injuries, with the later injuring his MCL and ACL while training in Florida. Ikegwuonu's long speed was a big concern pre-injury, so if he makes it in this league it will be as a strong safety, even though he has no experience there....all signs point to Dixon making a clean and full recovery.

*Ole Miss tailback BenJarvus Green has caught the eye of New Orleans, Chicago and Philadelphia. The young man has one of the best bodies in Indy.

Thanks for the posting. Great info.

Great post. Thanks for sharing the info!

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

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this is news to me....

Cedric Benson will be back with the Bears. If the Bears can fix up the line, that turd could shine bright.

jeter23 said:

*Look for veteran Billy Volek's name to surface in Atlanta. Even though they'll likely draft a quarterback 3rd overall, they need a veteran to start fresh and keep the seat warm. Volek is favorite of owner Arthur Blank, who offered him a deal once before to back up Michael Vick, but instead he went back to Tenneessee.

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after maligning Volek during his SD stay, I was impressed with his performance in the playoffs, and he should be a fine caretaker. There's numbers to be had as the Atlanta starting QB next year, I would consider Volek a decent last round pick if he does end up there while a Brohm or Ryan is developing.

*Look for Byron Leftwich's name to possibly surface in San Francisco. Martz thinks he can re-energize him and Alex Smith's support in the Bay Area is on life support.

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If Martz can make Leftwich's release quick enough to work in his offense, then there's nothing he can't do as a QB coach.

*Carolina is still toying with trading Julius Peppers

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This could be a win win. Peppers needs to be somewhere with a fiery leader on D, and an intense team ethic. I wonder how much of his lethargic play last year was just absorbing the current malaise of the franchise. Of course, Delhomme can be a spark if he stays healthy.

*Arizona is also still considering trading Larry Fitzgerald

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I get the feeling here that the ownership is letting WhisenGrimm have a team of "their guys" (think Hines Ward vs. Plaxico in Pittsburgh), and Fitz doesn't fit that description.

*Tennessee is hot for free agent wide reciever Bernard Berrian and recent cap cut tight Alge Crumpler....Tennessee is not really that hot for running back Tatum Bell, contrary to media reports. They are, however, talking to Julius Jones' folks...

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If so, who are they giving up on? White? Henry already? Both?

*Most scouts think all the good values at wide receiver will be in round two

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Indeed. and the same goes for rookie drafts.

The offensive line talent in this draft is deeper than I thought. Steelers staff said its the best in 25 years, in their opinion.

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At tackle, maybe this is true. Interior line, I dont think so, unless they are projecting some of the talented 4th-7th round type tackles to G/C

*Wide receiver Javon Walker is rumored to be heading to Tampa Bay.

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This makes sense for a lot of reasons, particularly Tampa's track record of giving guys 3rd and 4th chances, the lack of a starting quality WR opposite Galloway, and the lack of anyone who emerge after the sun sets on Galloway's career.

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

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Someone is going to get a steal. They may bring him in to be a committee back, but he'll earn more real quick. If my Steelers take him, my joy in how sick the running game could be (if the line gets their act together) will greatly overshadowed my disappointment of being a Parker owner in multiple leagues. The Steelers have to spend that cap room, and I cant argue with seemingly overpaying Turner (which won't be true once he starts performing) instead of giving money to lesser player at a position of greater need.

*Ole Miss tailback BenJarvus Green has caught the eye of New Orleans, Chicago and Philadelphia. The young man has one of the best bodies in Indy.

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Definitely one of the later round RBs who could end up starting in the NFL. We like him a lot, more coverage to come over at draftguys.

this is why i love the offseason so much around here.

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

Sigmund Bloom said:

*Look for Byron Leftwich's name to possibly surface in San Francisco. Martz thinks he can re-energize him and Alex Smith's support in the Bay Area is on life support.

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If Martz can make Leftwich's release quick enough to work in his offense, then there's nothing he can't do as a QB coach.

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Leftwich in Martz's scheme sound like just about the worst fit I could imagine. Average to below average decision making, questionable decision making speed, and a long, slow delivery doesn't sound much like a Martz system QB.

ThePittbully said:

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

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Two things about the Saints and Turner...#1 - Loomis said maybe two weeks ago that Deuce's rehab is going well;#2 - Deuce is due a major roster bonus this March. We can read the tea leaves with that coming due; and#3 - With all due respect to Turner's ability, the Saints have options with Reggie, Pierre Thomas and a very deep RB class in the draft. They shouldn't be looking at Turner...

saintfool said:

ThePittbully said:

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

Click to expand...

Two things about the Saints and Turner...#1 - Loomis said maybe two weeks ago that Deuce's rehab is going well;#2 - Deuce is due a major roster bonus this March. We can read the tea leaves with that coming due; and#3 - With all due respect to Turner's ability, the Saints have options with Reggie, Pierre Thomas and a very deep RB class in the draft. They shouldn't be looking at Turner...

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Really agree with # 3. The Saints offense will be fine, but they need to find impact players all over that defense. Thomas was fine in his late season audition. Bush will be back as well. If they want they can get a back in the 4th or 5th round to serve as the # 3.

Sigmund Bloom said:

If Martz can make Leftwich's release quick enough to work in his offense, then there's nothing he can't do as a QB coach.

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Thats probably exactly what Martz is thinking, he's looking to get his genius title back.

saintfool said:

ThePittbully said:

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

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Two things about the Saints and Turner...#1 - Loomis said maybe two weeks ago that Deuce's rehab is going well;

#2 - Deuce is due a major roster bonus this March. We can read the tea leaves with that coming due; and

#3 - With all due respect to Turner's ability, the Saints have options with Reggie, Pierre Thomas and a very deep RB class in the draft. They shouldn't be looking at Turner...

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I think Turner is the prefect fit here. I also believe they should be spending a majority of their draft picks on the defensive side of the ball. I do not know the salary cap ramifications of cutting Deuce but I would have to believe its something they are looking at. If Turner lowers his asking price, it could work out well for years to come in NO.

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

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Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

ThePittbully said:

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

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I think Turner-to-the-Saints is laughable, but Ben Jarvus Green? That makes sense. Same pipeline as Deuce from Ole Miss and will fulfill the same role Deuce had once his career in New Orleans runs its course, whether that's now, next year, or three years from now.

saintfool said:

ThePittbully said:

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

Click to expand...

Two things about the Saints and Turner...#1 - Loomis said maybe two weeks ago that Deuce's rehab is going well;#2 - Deuce is due a major roster bonus this March. We can read the tea leaves with that coming due; and#3 - With all due respect to Turner's ability, the Saints have options with Reggie, Pierre Thomas and a very deep RB class in the draft. They shouldn't be looking at Turner...

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If they could get Turner at a reasonable price, I would be pretty happy with it. I agree that Deuce, because of injury and bonuses due, will probably not be a Saint next season

Sigmund Bloom said:

after maligning Volek during his SD stay, I was impressed with his performance in the playoffs, and he should be a fine caretaker. There's numbers to be had as the Atlanta starting QB next year, I would consider Volek a decent last round pick if he does end up there while a Brohm or Ryan is developing.

*Look for Byron Leftwich's name to possibly surface in San Francisco. Martz thinks he can re-energize him and Alex Smith's support in the Bay Area is on life support.

Click to expand...

If Martz can make Leftwich's release quick enough to work in his offense, then there's nothing he can't do as a QB coach.

*Carolina is still toying with trading Julius Peppers

Click to expand...

This could be a win win. Peppers needs to be somewhere with a fiery leader on D, and an intense team ethic. I wonder how much of his lethargic play last year was just absorbing the current malaise of the franchise. Of course, Delhomme can be a spark if he stays healthy.

*Arizona is also still considering trading Larry Fitzgerald

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I get the feeling here that the ownership is letting WhisenGrimm have a team of "their guys" (think Hines Ward vs. Plaxico in Pittsburgh), and Fitz doesn't fit that description.

*Tennessee is hot for free agent wide reciever Bernard Berrian and recent cap cut tight Alge Crumpler....Tennessee is not really that hot for running back Tatum Bell, contrary to media reports. They are, however, talking to Julius Jones' folks...

Click to expand...

If so, who are they giving up on? White? Henry already? Both?

*Most scouts think all the good values at wide receiver will be in round two

Click to expand...

Indeed. and the same goes for rookie drafts.

The offensive line talent in this draft is deeper than I thought. Steelers staff said its the best in 25 years, in their opinion.

Click to expand...

At tackle, maybe this is true. Interior line, I dont think so, unless they are projecting some of the talented 4th-7th round type tackles to G/C

*Wide receiver Javon Walker is rumored to be heading to Tampa Bay.

Click to expand...

This makes sense for a lot of reasons, particularly Tampa's track record of giving guys 3rd and 4th chances, the lack of a starting quality WR opposite Galloway, and the lack of anyone who emerge after the sun sets on Galloway's career.

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Someone is going to get a steal. They may bring him in to be a committee back, but he'll earn more real quick. If my Steelers take him, my joy in how sick the running game could be (if the line gets their act together) will greatly overshadowed my disappointment of being a Parker owner in multiple leagues. The Steelers have to spend that cap room, and I cant argue with seemingly overpaying Turner (which won't be true once he starts performing) instead of giving money to lesser player at a position of greater need.

*Ole Miss tailback BenJarvus Green has caught the eye of New Orleans, Chicago and Philadelphia. The young man has one of the best bodies in Indy.

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Definitely one of the later round RBs who could end up starting in the NFL. We like him a lot, more coverage to come over at draftguys.

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I think Tennessee's interest in a RB is to replace Chris Brown with a guy to split with Lendale White. Chris Henry remains the #3.I don't see Martz touching Leftwich. Not a fit at all.Turner could not have picked a worse year to be an UFA running back. I am sure teams view him as a great RB but why give him a bunch of guarenteed money when you get draft a very good prospect in the middle rounds this year and not have to commit much money to the position. Smart salary cap management.

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

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Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

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my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

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my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

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That would be a better move for them, this way they dont burn a early pick on a rb and could now use those picks for the O Line.

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

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my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

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Mine too, this makes perfect sense to me.

jeter23 said:

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

Click to expand...

my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

Click to expand...

Mine too, this makes perfect sense to me.

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What about Benson? lol.... The run problems in Chicago rise much higher than Cedric Benson. They go from the Oline play, to Qb play, to having an adequate blocking FB. Turner is a local kid, but his play did drop off at the end of the year and he had some injuries just like benson.

jeter23 said:

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

Click to expand...

my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

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Mine too, this makes perfect sense to me.

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But Benson says bringing in another RB would be a mistake.

As a Niners fan, I'm willing to trust Martz if he wants to bring in Byron...though upon first blush it seems that would be a terrible match.

Thanks for posting this-fantastic information!

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

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I could see that working.

ThePittbully said:

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

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What about Pierre Thomas. Kid looked good late last year. Thought the Saints really liked him as well whenthey let rookie Antonio Pittman go and kept Pierre. Don't Know Deuce's status. Not a Saints fan but I just don't see them paying big for him when I think Thomas could be a decent starter.

Sigmund Bloom said:

*Tennessee is hot for free agent wide reciever Bernard Berrian and recent cap cut tight Alge Crumpler....Tennessee is not really that hot for running back Tatum Bell, contrary to media reports. They are, however, talking to Julius Jones' folks...

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If so, who are they giving up on? White? Henry already? Both?

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They should give up on their RB scouts.

benson_will_lead_the_way said:

jeter23 said:

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

Click to expand...

my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

Click to expand...

Mine too, this makes perfect sense to me.

Click to expand...

What about Benson? lol.... The run problems in Chicago rise much higher than Cedric Benson. They go from the Oline play, to Qb play, to having an adequate blocking FB. Turner is a local kid, but his play did drop off at the end of the year and he had some injuries just like benson.

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It says right in the initial post that the Bears are shopping Benson. If you're going to believe or believe that Turner can be a Bear, then it's not hard to believe Benson wouldn't be there.

Iwannabeacowboybaby! said:

benson_will_lead_the_way said:

jeter23 said:

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

Click to expand...

my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

Click to expand...

Mine too, this makes perfect sense to me.

Click to expand...

What about Benson? lol.... The run problems in Chicago rise much higher than Cedric Benson. They go from the Oline play, to Qb play, to having an adequate blocking FB. Turner is a local kid, but his play did drop off at the end of the year and he had some injuries just like benson.

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It says right in the initial post that the Bears are shopping Benson. If you're going to believe or believe that Turner can be a Bear, then it's not hard to believe Benson wouldn't be there.

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I think the Bears will get so little for him, they might as well keep him and hope for the best. How much will teams give up for an unproductive, overpaid, injury concerns, headcase RB?

Buddy Ball 2K3 said:

saintfool said:

ThePittbully said:

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

Click to expand...

Two things about the Saints and Turner...#1 - Loomis said maybe two weeks ago that Deuce's rehab is going well;

#2 - Deuce is due a major roster bonus this March. We can read the tea leaves with that coming due; and

#3 - With all due respect to Turner's ability, the Saints have options with Reggie, Pierre Thomas and a very deep RB class in the draft. They shouldn't be looking at Turner...

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I think Turner is the prefect fit here. I also believe they should be spending a majority of their draft picks on the defensive side of the ball. I do not know the salary cap ramifications of cutting Deuce but I would have to believe its something they are looking at. If Turner lowers his asking price, it could work out well for years to come in NO.

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See, I don't think Turner comes cheaply. This may be a deep draft for RBs and the FA market is a bit muddled but Turner stands out. I think Payton finally has an idea of how to use Reggie and a "powerback" (whether it's Deuce, Thomas or even Stecker, compared to Reggie they all fit this bill) correctly. He shouldn't feel compelled to do anything at this position. Especially when we all know that the focus of off season upgrades will be defensive. If Deuce's rehab his coming along well we'll know with the upcoming roster bonus decision.

Wow...could KC be going QB??? They have seemed so set on Long. Most scouts I have heard think QBs could fall down the board but here we now have ATL toying with Ryan and KC in love with Brohm. Anyone think they both last to top of Rd. 2?

How much does Flozell have left in the tank?

If the Bears can't find a suitor for Benson, might they end up cutting him? Would that make any financial sense?

Max Power said:

Iwannabeacowboybaby! said:

benson_will_lead_the_way said:

jeter23 said:

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

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Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

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my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

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Mine too, this makes perfect sense to me.

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What about Benson? lol.... The run problems in Chicago rise much higher than Cedric Benson. They go from the Oline play, to Qb play, to having an adequate blocking FB. Turner is a local kid, but his play did drop off at the end of the year and he had some injuries just like benson.

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It says right in the initial post that the Bears are shopping Benson. If you're going to believe or believe that Turner can be a Bear, then it's not hard to believe Benson wouldn't be there.

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I think the Bears will get so little for him, they might as well keep him and hope for the best. How much will teams give up for an unproductive, overpaid, injury concerns, headcase RB?

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Sometimes a fresh start somewhere else is a good thing for all concerned. Benson burned a lot of bridges with teammates while sharing duties with Thomas Jones a couple of years ago. Rather than keeping him and hoping for the best, I think they'd rather not have the distraction. It looks like they have decided to go in another direction at RB, and Benson would not be a positive team player as backup or RBBC guy.

The thing with trading Benson is the cap hit. He was a Top 5 pick with a pretty big signing bonus. Any of you guys with info on how that would affect the Bears' cap situation would greatly enlighten the discussion. Best I see it, the Bears don't have so much wiggle room with all that money tied up on the defensive side of the ball.

Balco said:

saintfool said:

ThePittbully said:

As a Saints homer this is the first Ive heard of them being interested in Turner, there hasnt even been a hint of a rumor anywhere here. I definitely wouldnt be upset if they picked up Benjarvus, IMO he's got nice upside and he's a solid solid RB

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Two things about the Saints and Turner...#1 - Loomis said maybe two weeks ago that Deuce's rehab is going well;

#2 - Deuce is due a major roster bonus this March. We can read the tea leaves with that coming due; and

#3 - With all due respect to Turner's ability, the Saints have options with Reggie, Pierre Thomas and a very deep RB class in the draft. They shouldn't be looking at Turner...

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Really agree with # 3. The Saints offense will be fine, but they need to find impact players all over that defense. Thomas was fine in his late season audition. Bush will be back as well. If they want they can get a back in the 4th or 5th round to serve as the # 3.

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Reggie Bush proved last year that not only isn't he a good featured RB but he is actually a very, very bad featured RB (the worst on his team and one of the worst in the NFL)Pierre Thomas has proven nothing although he does appear to be better than Bush

Englishteacher said:

The thing with trading Benson is the cap hit. He was a Top 5 pick with a pretty big signing bonus. Any of you guys with info on how that would affect the Bears' cap situation would greatly enlighten the discussion. Best I see it, the Bears don't have so much wiggle room with all that money tied up on the defensive side of the ball.

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If the rumor is true that they are indeed shopping him, the question is moot since they have already decided they are willing to eat the cap hit.As far as the contract is concerned, he has completed 3 years of a 5 year deal that included 17 mil in guarantees. The whole capology thing isn't my strength (I'm not sure if all unearned guarantees are treated the same), but I guess the cap hit would be 17/5*2=6.8 mil? They'd also be getting salary of 820k (2008) and 1.02 mil (2009) off the books.

if Benson IS cut, I could see him landing in Carolina. That stop helped resurrect S.Davis' career.

qimqam said:

Reggie Bush proved last year that not only isn't he a good featured RB but he is actually a very, very bad featured RB (the worst on his team and one of the worst in the NFL)Pierre Thomas has proven nothing although he does appear to be better than Bush

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I think the jury is still out on Reggie's "feature back" status. Payton didn't alter the running game at all once Deuce went down. Reggie's not a grinder but Payton seemed committed to that style throughout the season. Honestly, the Saints offense was all over the place last year - with the losing streak then the winning then the losing - and it's tough to make any judgments about them. I have to think another year is only going to help Reggie, Payton's play calling and offense overall.

As a Dallas fan I had a couple questions and am hoping someone might have heard more:

1) RB - Obviously they love MBIII in Dallas. If JJ moves on, who do they look to replace him with? I don't think Thompson and the rest can fill that void. Is a guy like Benson an option? Bringing him back to Texas might change his attitude and give him new life. Is his style more like JJ or Barber? I watched him (Benson) a lot in college, but must admit I have not watched him more than a whole game combined in Chicago and he's my 3rd RB in my dynasty league.

2) CB - Is Dallas still in the running for DeAngelo Hall or is it pretty much a done deal that he is heading to NY? I read in a couple threads that Dallas was pretty aggressively pursuing Hall as well.

Thanks

Great stuff

One of the last positions I would want to be a UFA is at tailback; not just this year but in the current mindset of the NFL. Teams have begun to wake up to the longevity issues at the tailback position, not to mention the ability to put up huge numbers through a combination approach. I understand Turner thinks his ship is going to come in, but I would be very leery of giving him big dough. The smartest scenario for Turner would be sitting tight and letting the dust settle after the draft. Then, a few teams will start to really look hard at RB as a pressing need; but until then any deal he's likely to get isn't going to be the blockbuster he's hoping for.

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

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Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

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my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

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Wouldn't the smart move for Turner be to sign a one year contract with SD? LT is aging and if this is the year he gets hurt then the door is opened for Turner to win the starting job. If not, then he goes on the market next year when the draft is less deep. It isn't like sitting behind LT for another year is going to affect his value signficantly.

az_prof said:

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

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Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

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:(my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

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Wouldn't the smart move for Turner be to sign a one year contract with SD? LT is aging and if this is the year he gets hurt then the door is opened for Turner to win the starting job. If not, then he goes on the market next year when the draft is less deep. It isn't like sitting behind LT for another year is going to affect his value signficantly.

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If Turner is going to sign a one year deal, it should be with a team that will give him the opportunity to get touches and show what's he got so that he's more of a "known commodity" in the 2009 market. Its not that he'll lose value backing up LT, its that he could gain value if he gets on the field.

az_prof said:

Sigmund Bloom said:

Couch Potato said:

jeter23 said:

*Mike Turner's (Chargers tailback) people are not happy here in Indy. Apparently his agent has been told precisely what I expected -- the draft is loaded with tailbacks and teams in dire need at running back will draft one. The one team that might be his buyer is New Orleans, because Deuce's recovery has hit some snags, according to their trainers. The Steelers like Turner alot, but they don't like the numbers he is looking for. Arizona, reportedly, loves him but can't afford to even buy groceries on their cap. They just had to cut three players to get a little wiggle room.

Click to expand...

Just one opinion, but as I see it Chicago should and will be Turner's landing place. We'll see.

Click to expand...

:(my gut has been saying Chicago for a while now - he's just too perfect for their style and mentality.

Click to expand...

Wouldn't the smart move for Turner be to sign a one year contract with SD? LT is aging and if this is the year he gets hurt then the door is opened for Turner to win the starting job. If not, then he goes on the market next year when the draft is less deep. It isn't like sitting behind LT for another year is going to affect his value signficantly.

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Turner turned 26 last week. The life span of an NFL RB is short, short, short. No way. You get your money now. We're talking about millions of dollars in difference between being LT's backup and being a starter somewhere. He only needs one team to sign him. Better to find that team now and not wait. Too much can go wrong in a year. What's to say he doesn't tear an ACL in preseason backing up LT? And, there are no guarantees his opportunities are better next year, at 27. Cash in now.Edit to add -- the guy in one of my leagues who traded me Reggie Wayne before the 2006 season, thinking he had the next great RB for 2007, sure would be pissed if he lost out on 2006, 2007, AND ALSO 2008 while I got full use of Wayne.

Sigmund Bloom said:

Its not that he'll lose value backing up LT, its that he could gain value if he gets on the field.

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No way Turner can go back to SD. He got screwed by SD not trading him and having to come out in this loaded RB class, but he's still an unknown commodity. He needs to go somewhere he can get on the field more on a one-year deal and hope to stay healthy to hit the jackpot next year.

The Turner to PIT rumor isn't necessarily of huge significance, but it does reinforce my opinion that Parker is an overrated talent. I think he's a bigger risk to be replaced than his top 10 dynasty status would indicate. I've just never been that impressed with him. I think he's an average back in a great situation.

I'll be watching Turner closely. Chicago and Arizona make a lot of sense for him. I still say he ends up on one of those teams when all is said and done. Remember, teams might try to lowball his agent and downplay their interest so they can get him cheap. For all the depth in this draft, Mendenhall and Stewart are the only 220+ pound bell cow runners. Teams who miss out on those guys probably won't be thrilled about the prospect of entering the season with Justin Forsett as their top runner. I think there will be a market for Turner.

The other significant news here for me is about Chad Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald. It would have major FF implications if either of those guys were to be traded.