FA Notes (1 Viewer)

[Bri]

from BBI(Giants site)

Latest Free Agent Rumblings: Here is the latest free agent rumblings – some contradictory - regarding the Giants and players from other teams:

HB Dominic Rhodes: Various press reports say unrestricted free agent HB Dominic Rhodes (Indianapolis Colts) arrived at the Meadowlands yesterday to visit with the Giants. If the visit goes well, Rhodes could be signed as early as today. The Star-Ledger and The Daily News are reporting that Rhodes stayed overnight in New Jersey. The Ledger says Rhode's agent did not talk contract with the Giants yesterday but is expected to do so today. The Daily News reports that the Giants are expected to make a big push to sign him before he leaves.

LT/OG Leonard Davis: Various press reports are reporting that the Giants are interested in unrestricted free agent LT/OG Leonard Davis (Arizona Cardinals). Davis visited the Cowboys yesterday. The Ledger, The Daily News, Newsday, and The New York Post say Davis will visit the Giants today. However, although a Giants' team official told The Ledger and The Daily News that Davis is scheduled to visit today, Davis' agent told The Daily News that no visit was scheduled with the Giants. According to various sources, Davis is expected to visit the Redskins, also possibly as early as today. The New York Post says the 49ers are also interested in Davis.

OT Jonathan Stinchcomb: The Daily News is reporting that if the Giants are unable to sign Leonard Davis, the team may pursue unrestricted free agent OT Jonathan Stinchcomb (New Orleans Saints). The Daily News and The Ledger say the Giants have contacted his agent.

LB Joey Porter: The Ledger, The Daily News, and The New York Post are reporting that the Giants have contacted the agent for unrestricted free agent LB Joey Porter, who was recently cut by the Pittsburgh Steelers. According to the agent, Porter is not yet scheduled to visit any teams yet and will decide over the weekend where he wants to visit first. The Baltimore Sun is reporting that Porter has told several Ravens players that he would like to play in Baltimore. The Daily News says the Browns and Dolphins are also interested.

LB Cato June: ESPN is reporting that unrestricted free agent Cato June (Indianapolis Colts) will visit the Giants. However, The Daily News is reporting that Cato's agent has not heard from the Giants. The paper says the Giants have decided that June does not fit their defensive scheme. The New York Post also reports that the Giants have no interest in June.

LB Ike Reese: The Ledger is reporting that unrestricted LB Ike Reese, who was cut by the Falcons yesterday, is interested in signing with the Giants. The paper says Reese told his agent to contact only a handful of teams and one of them is the Giants. Reese played for Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo in Philadelphia.

LB Tully Banta-Cain: The Daily News and The Ledger are reporting that the Giants are interested in unrestricted free agent LB Tully Banta-Cain (New England Patriots).

CB Rod Hood: The Ledger is reporting that the Giants spoke to the agent for unrestricted free agent CB Rod Hood (Philadelphia Eagles) yesterday, but no visit has yet been scheduled. The Daily News is also reporting that no visit has been scheduled with the Giants. Hood is scheduled to visit the Cardinals and the Browns.

SS Michael Lewis: The Ledger and The Daily News are reporting that the Giants were interested in unrestricted free agent SS Michael Lewis (Philadelphia Eagles), but Lewis signed with the 49ers yesterday. He is off the market. The Daily News says Lewis was scheduled to visit the Giants.

FB Ovie Mughelli: The Ledger, The Daily News, and The Journal News are reporting that the Giants were interested in unrestricted free agent FB Ovie Mughelli (Baltimore Ravens), but Mughelli signed a 6-year, $18 million contract with the Falcons yesterday. He is off the market.

Giants Interested in Trading for HB Tatum Bell?: ProFootballTalk.com is reporting that the Giants are interested in possibly trading for HB Tatum Bell of the Detroit Lions. The Broncos traded Bell to the Lions earlier this week as part of the package for CB Dre' Bly.

 

[Bri]

from NFL.com, note dates

(March 3, 2007) -- Free agency has opened with a flurry of activity. Already, numerous teams are on the board. Take a glance at the deals, and the potential soon-to-be deals.

Saturday, March 3

Free-agent DE Antwan Peek agreed to terms with Browns.

Free-agent wide receiver Ashley Lelie signed a two-year deal with the 49ers for $4.3 million, including a $2 million signing bonus.

Free-agent RB Ahman Green will visit with the Texans. Other visits on Saturday included: Cincinnati tight end Reggie Kelly with the Falcons, Seattle guard Floyd "Pork Chop" Womack with the Falcons, Eagles defensive back Roderick Hood with the Browns, Bengals wide receiver Kelley Washington with the Dolphins and Rams defensive back Travis Fisher with the Redskins.

New England free-agent TE Daniel Graham left Denver and is scheduled to visit Oakland on Sunday.

Dallas free-agent center Al Johnson visited Tampa Bay on Friday and Saturday and is scheduled to visit Arizona on Sunday.

The Titans have released RB Travis Henry rather than pay him the $8.3 million roster bonus due to him. Henry is now scheduled to visit Broncos on Saturday night.

The Lions have signed free-agent DE Dewayne White to a five-year, $29 million deal.

The Patriots plan to sign Miami restricted free-agent wide receiver Wes Welker to a seven-year offers sheet worth $38.5 million. Once Welker signs the offer sheet, the Dolphins will have seven days to match it. If they decide not to, they would get the Patriots' second-round draft pick.

The Patriots also signed LB Adalius Thomas as expected. The deal is for $37.5 million for five years, which includes $24 million in the first three years.

After visiting Seattle and looking at Cleveland, free-agent guard Kris Dielman opted to re-sign with San Diego, landing a six-year, $39 million deal that included $17 million worth of guaranteed money.

The Buccaneers and free-agent quarterback Jeff Garcia have reached a contract ageement. The deal is similar to the one the Bucs gave Chris Simms.

The Texans have restructured the contract of Pro Bowl wide receiver Andre Johnson and extended him. The move frees up cap space and gets their best player committed for a long time.

The Broncos have acquired DT Dan Wilkinson from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a sixth-round pick. Denver plays the same defensive system as Miami, so Wilkinson should have no problem with the transition.

Friday, March 2

The Patriots are expected to sign free agent LB Adalius Thomas and TE Kyle Brady.

The Saints are scheduled to host free agents CB Ken Hamlin and LB Brian Simmons on Saturday.

The 49ers have signed CB Nate Clements to the biggest contract ever given to a defensive player -- eight years, $80 million, including $22 million guaranteed.

Browns have signed OT Eric Steinbach to seven-year contract worth $49.5 million with $17 million guaranteed.

Bills have agreed to terms with guard Derrick Dockery on seven-year deal worth $49 million with $18.5 million guaranteed.

(Note: Last year, Steve Hutchinson deal was worth $49 million for seven years with $16.5 guaranteed. Dockery (guard) matches that, and Steinbach (tackle) just beats it. Both Steinbach and Dockery got more guaranteed money than Hutchinson.)

Also, the Bills and OT Langston Walker have agreed to terms on five-year deal worth approximately $25 million.

Buccaneers have signed free-agent DE Patrick Chukwurah to five-year contract worth $5.5 million with $400,000 guaranteed.

The Falcons have signed FB Ovie Mughelli to a six-year contract worth $18 million, including $5 million guaranteed.

Giants officially sign C Shaun O'Hara.

Free-agent LB Napoleon Harris scheduled to visit the Buccaneers Friday and Chiefs Saturday.

Rams hosted visits with free agents LB Tully Banta-Cain and WR Drew Bennett.

Patriots hosted visits with free agents TE Kyle Brady and RB Sammy Morris.

49ers also played host to free-agents S Michael Lewis.

Browns hosted visit with DE Antwaan Peek.

Redskins hosted visit with free-agent LB London Fletcher. Redskins also scheduled to host visit with CB Fred Smoot today.

Broncos hosted visits with free agents TE Daniel Graham, RB Ahman Green and DE Patrick Kerney, and scheduled to welcome QB Brad Johnson on March 3.

Free-agent RB Dominic Rhodes is scheduled to visit the Giants Friday.

Free-agent G Kris Dielman is scheduled to visit the Seahawks Friday.

Free-agent FB Justin Griffith is scheduled to visit the Bucs Friday.

Free-agent WR Kevin Curtis is scheduled to visit the Vikings Friday and the Lions Saturday.

Free-agent QB Jeff Garcia is scheduled to visit the Raiders Friday.

Free-agent DE Dewayne White scheduled to visit the Lions Friday.

The Jaguars have signed RT Tony Pashos and K Josh Scobee, each to five-year deals. Pashos' deal is for $24 million, including a $9 million signing bonus.

Other news

Quarterback Jake Plummer is expected to retire. The Broncos and Buccaneers had agreed to terms on a trade to send Plummer to Tampa Bay in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick, but the trade would be nullified by Plummer's decision to retire.

Dolphins have released DE Kevin Carter and G Jeno James, the team announced. (Dolphins have yet to release Joey Harrington. His roster bonus is not due until next week, so they have some time.)

The Patriots have released RB Corey Dillon and re-signed RB Heath Evans.

Jets have released QB Patrick Ramsey.

The Lions released TE Marcus Pollard, DT Marcus Bell and DT Tyoka Jackson; The Lions also traded DE James Hall to St. Louis for their second 2007 fifth-round draft choice. Detroit's trade of Dre' Bly to Denver became official.

The Falcons released LB Edgerton Hartwell and LB Ike Reese.

Vikings have released S Tank Williams.

 

[Bri]

USAToday tracker

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nf...ent-tracker.htm

 

[Bri]

CNNSI truth and rumors

Pacman Jones admitted to Georgia cops last March that he'd been smoking marijuana in his car, but he said he wasn't worried. He knew the NFL wouldn't be testing him for drugs anytime soon.

-- New York Daily News

Though Chris Simms believes the Bucs gave him starter's money in his new contract, there was growing speculation Thursday that Tampa Bay was planning to give the same kind of money to free-agent quarterback Jeff Garcia.

-- Tampa Tribune

In a plan devised to penetrate China, a fertile untapped market, the NFL is training Gao Wei, Ding Long and Shen Yalei to become the first Chinese to play in America's most popular sports league. They are immersed in the experiment, a crash course on the craft of kicking footballs that may culminate in August with one or two them taking the field in the NFL's first exhibition game in China.

-- New York Times

Middle linebacker London Fletcher could become a member of the Redskins as early as today, while former Redskins defensive back Fred Smoot also is a top priority.

-- Washington Post

The Dolphins still have a slot to fill at quarterback. And although it likely would be done through the draft, the possibility of a trade with Kansas City for an expendable Trent Green still exists. Green played for coach Cam Cameron in Washington in 1995 and 1996.

-- Miami Herald

Although no one on the Steelers would say so, the threat by Joey Porter to hold out last summer played a factor in his release. Team officials did not want to burden new head coach Mike Tomlin with that kind of threat to his authority.

-- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The Steelers also released injured backup halfback Verron Haynes -- although they want to re-sign him.

-- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

We hear the Carolina coaching staff has felt out veteran safety Mike Minter on the free-agent safeties about to come available and asked his opinion on who he might be comfortable playing next to. One possibility that's making the rounds is Seattle's Ken Hamlin.

-- Charlotte Observer

Patriots free agent Daniel Graham is scheduled to meet with his hometown Denver Broncos today, and the Seahawks, Vikings, and Raiders are attempting to arrange visits.

-- Boston Globe

The Broncos are expected to bring Atlanta defensive end Patrick Kerney in for a visit as soon as today.

-- Denver Post

Though Patrick Kerney, the top defensive end on the market, said he thinks his days with the Falcons are over, general manager Rich McKay said the team has a standing offer to Kerney.

-- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Estimates vary, but the Eagles appear to have about $6.5 million to spend after deducting roughly $3 million being slotted for incoming rookies and draft picks. If defensive end Juqua Thomas come to terms today, as expected, there may be even less cash available.

-- Newark Star-Ledger

Although there is a chance that the Ravens could sign one player today, this has the makings of an unusually slow start of free agency, which creates an uncertain future for their free agents. The Ravens' first move probably will be to fill the void at running back, where Jamal Lewis remains the front-runner.

-- Baltimore Sun

After 14 years with the Patriots, fan favorite Troy Brown is considering the next step in his career, which could include retirement.

-- Boston Globe

Bucs middle linebacker Shelton Quarles has undergone several tests to determine whether a possible degenerative hip - the same injury that ended Bo Jackson's career - will allow him to play in 2007, the final year of his contract.

-- Tampa Tribune

 

[Bri]

foxsports blog

Kerney to the Seahawks?...

Mar 03, 2007 | 3:02PM | report this A league source has told scout.com and our omnipresent compadre Adam Caplan that free agent DE Patrick Kerney is on his way to Seattle to visit with the Seattle Seahawks.

The source indicated that Seattle, who lost out on signing free agent G Kris Dielman, is prepared to make Kerney a lucrative offer.

 

[Jules Winnfield]

Help me out guys as I have been burning the candle at both ends.

Very late one night, I thought I came on here and read that Daniel Graham signed with the Broncos. Now I see he is paying visits to MN, SEA, and OAK.

What happened in Denver?

Thanks.

I hope I see a response in the next 10 minutes or so. Otherwise I am finally getting some sleep.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Help me out guys as I have been burning the candle at both ends.Very late one night, I thought I came on here and read that Daniel Graham signed with the Broncos. Now I see he is paying visits to MN, SEA, and OAK.What happened in Denver?Thanks. I hope I see a response in the next 10 minutes or so. Otherwise I am finally getting some sleep.

Jules,The FA market has been fairly crazy. One minute Plummer is going to the Bucs, the next he is retired. Next Garcia is signed to the Bucs, and Plummer is coming along too even though he retired. I saw a link where Garcia was signing with the Raiders but he did indeed become a Buc. Dielman was for sure going to be Seahawk...then he knee jerks and resigns with San Diego.The point here is that there are a lot of rumors and anytime that someone is seen in a city it is assumed they are signing there. Graham was in Denver but got no contract offer...at least he didn't sign so he is off to tour some more cities.

 

[msommer]

And Plummer really retired afterall

 

[netnalp]

the USA Today 2207 free agent tracker linked above, I'm assuming has an error. It correctly has the signing of Nate Clements by the 49ers from the Bills, but has Clements acquired by the Seahawks from the 49ers.

 

[nerangers]

USAToday tracker

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nf...ent-tracker.htm

I also did not see Dre Bly listed under Denver...does this mean he has not signed yet?

 

[Bri]

USAToday tracker

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nf...ent-tracker.htm

I also did not see Dre Bly listed under Denver...does this mean he has not signed yet?

Roto might do that for USAToday, if not I'd expect it'll be updated Monday morning

 

[identikit]

USAToday tracker

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nf...ent-tracker.htm

I also did not see Dre Bly listed under Denver...does this mean he has not signed yet?

Bly wasn't a free agent; he was traded.

 

[nerangers]

USAToday tracker

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nf...ent-tracker.htm

I also did not see Dre Bly listed under Denver...does this mean he has not signed yet?

Bly wasn't a free agent; he was traded.

of course...that makes sense!

 

[Bri]

Latest Free Agent News: Here is the latest free agent rumblings regarding the Giants and players from other teams:

HB Dominic Rhodes: The Star-Ledger is reporting that there have been no major developments in the negotiations between the Giants and unrestricted free agent HB Dominic Rhodes (Indianapolis Colts). The paper says the Giants have spoken to Rhodes' agent on Sunday and Monday after Rhodes visited the team on Friday and Saturday. One source told The Ledger that talks between both parties have been preliminary and could pick up later this week.

WR Kevin Curtis: According to various press reports, unrestricted free agent WR Kevin Curtis (St. Louis Rams) was scheduled to visit the Giants last night. However, Curtis fired his agent after a deal could not be worked out with the Detroit Lions, the team Curtis visited over this past weekend. The Lions may be Curtis' first choice because of his relationship with Detroit's offensive coordinator, Mike Martz. It is not known at this time if Curtis will still keep his appointment with the Giants. A Giants' team spokesman told The Ledger that the team was unsure if Curtis would still visit. League rules prevent Curtis hiring a new agent for five days. Curtis has also already visited the Vikings.

HB Travis Henry: The Giants had been reported to be interested in unrestricted free agent HB Travis Henry, who was recently cut by the Tennessee Titans. However, Henry signed a 5-year contract that included $12 million in guaranteed money with the Denver Broncos. Henry is off the market.

Giants Re-Structure WR Amani Toomer's Contract: According to The Star-Ledger, the Giants and WR Amani Toomer agreed to a minor contract restructure recently. The paper says there was no change in compensation, but that money was moved around a bit, most likely for salary-cap purposes. The Ledger says that Toomer is not in danger of being cut.

Luke Petitgout Drawing Interest from Redskins and Buccaneers: According to various press reports, unrestricted free agent LT Luke Petitgout met with the Redskins yesterday. The Redskins are believed to be making a strong push to sign him so he can play left guard for them. Petitgout has also received some interest from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Petitgout is viewed by many as the best offensive tackle left on the free agent market.

********

CB Rod Hood: While the Giants still have not scheduled a visit for unrestricted free agent CB Rod Hood (Philadelphia Eagles), The Bergen Record reported on Saturday that Hood would like to play for the Giants. "Rod would like to play there because, no secret, because one of his former coaches (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) is there," said Hood's agent. "He'd like to stay in the NFC East. That being said we don't have a visit set up yet." Hood visited the Browns yesterday and will visit the Cardinals today.

LB Cato June: The New York Post is reporting that there is no truth to the media and internet reports that the Giants are interested in unrestricted LB Cato June (Indianapolis Colts). "It's not happening with the Giants," said June's agent.

OT Jonathan Stinchcomb: The Daily News had reported that the Giants were interested in unrestricted free agent OT Jonathan Stinchcomb (New Orleans Saints). However, Stinchcomb has re-signed with the Saints He is off the market.

More on HB Tatum Bell and the Giants: The Daily News is confirming yesterday's report from ProFootballTalk.com that the Giants may be interested in trading for HB Tatum Bell of the Lions. Bell was recently traded to the Lions by Denver and is believed to be back on the trading block. The Daily News says General Manager Jerry Reese is believed to be interested in Bell.

From BBI

 

[Bri]

CNNSI Truth and rumors

Unable to strike a deal with Jamal Lewis over the weekend, the Ravens have expanded their free-agent running back search. The Ravens contacted the agents for Corey Dillon and Chris Brown yesterday, although they are continuing to negotiate with Lewis.

-- Baltimore Sun

The Jets were after the Jones brothers for nearly a year. Concerned about Curtis Martin's surgically repaired knee, they almost pulled off a draft-day trade last April for Cowboys running back Julius Jones.

-- New York Daily News

Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn threw for an estimated 65 NFL scouts, general managers and coaches Sunday during the school's pro day workout. Early reports were that Quinn, who participated in passing drills only, had a solid workout, connecting on 58 of 63 passes, including four catchable balls that were dropped.

-- St. Paul Pioneer Press

The Jets were believed to be working on a new contract for Thomas Jones. Jones's current deal has one year remaining. Jones will be the featured running back, although Leon Washington, whose small stature and quick feet electrified fans, will most likely receive significant carries, giving the Jets a change-of-pace option to keep defenses off balance.

-- New York Times

By giving up their second-round pick for Wes Welker, the Pats dealt away a possible chip for Randy Moss. It's hard to imagine the Raiders parting ways with Moss for anything less than a second-rounder, if they're interested in trading him at all.

-- Boston Herald

There is no chance the Vikings will try to bring back Randy Moss. Coach Brad Childress, remember, had Terrell Owens in Philadelphia, and he doesn't need another toothache.

-- St. Paul Pioneer Press

The team that still needs a quarterback the most, Minnesota, wasn't interested in Jeff Garcia or Jake Plummer. Maybe it will be interested in David Carr.

-- Houston Chronicle

Denver cornerback Dre Bly, who the Redskins attempted to acquire last week and who has told several people he wants to play for Washington, could become available again.

-- Washington Post

In a move that illustrates the Dolphins' high level of interest in unrestricted free agent linebacker Joey Porter, coach Cam Cameron and general manager Randy Mueller traveled to visit Porter in his hometown of Bakersfield, Calif. The courtship appears to have been at least somewhat successful.

-- Miami Herald

The possibility that receiver Donté Stallworth could return to the Eagles may have been enhanced when the Patriots acquired receiver Wes Welker from the Dolphins. It does not appear as if the Dolphins are interested in giving Stallworth the kind of up-front money that agent Drew Rosenhaus is seeking for his client.

-- Philadelphia Inquirer

Trent Green and his agent, Jim Steiner, declined to answer questions about his meeting with Chiefs president and general manager Carl Peterson. Green is still a member of the Chiefs, though his time in Kansas City may be winding down. He appears to have lost his starting job since the Chiefs re-signed Damon Huard last week. The Chiefs have offered him in trade to other teams.

-- Kansas City Star

The Steelers take their first steps to try to replace Joey Porter when they have a look at the guy who was displaced in New England by Adalius Thomas. Tully Banta-Cain will visit the Steelers tomorrow.

-- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Brad Johnson is close with new Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett, who was his teammate for part of the 2004 season in Tampa Bay. Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones said the team could add a quarterback in the draft as well.

-- Dallas Morning News

Receiver Kevin Curtis, a four-year veteran with the Rams, is still scheduled to come to Giants Stadium, possibly Tuesday, but that might be delayed because Curtis fired his agent, Tom Condon, after Curtis left Detroit without a contract.

-- Newsday

 

[eefflrat]

CNNSI Truth and rumors

Unable to strike a deal with Jamal Lewis over the weekend, the Ravens have expanded their free-agent running back search. The Ravens contacted the agents for Corey Dillon and Chris Brown yesterday, although they are continuing to negotiate with Lewis.

-- Baltimore Sun

The Jets were after the Jones brothers for nearly a year. Concerned about Curtis Martin's surgically repaired knee, they almost pulled off a draft-day trade last April for Cowboys running back Julius Jones.

-- New York Daily News

Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn threw for an estimated 65 NFL scouts, general managers and coaches Sunday during the school's pro day workout. Early reports were that Quinn, who participated in passing drills only, had a solid workout, connecting on 58 of 63 passes, including four catchable balls that were dropped.

-- St. Paul Pioneer Press

The Jets were believed to be working on a new contract for Thomas Jones. Jones's current deal has one year remaining. Jones will be the featured running back, although Leon Washington, whose small stature and quick feet electrified fans, will most likely receive significant carries, giving the Jets a change-of-pace option to keep defenses off balance.

-- New York Times

By giving up their second-round pick for Wes Welker, the Pats dealt away a possible chip for Randy Moss. It's hard to imagine the Raiders parting ways with Moss for anything less than a second-rounder, if they're interested in trading him at all.

-- Boston Herald

There is no chance the Vikings will try to bring back Randy Moss. Coach Brad Childress, remember, had Terrell Owens in Philadelphia, and he doesn't need another toothache.

-- St. Paul Pioneer Press

The team that still needs a quarterback the most, Minnesota, wasn't interested in Jeff Garcia or Jake Plummer. Maybe it will be interested in David Carr.

-- Houston Chronicle

Denver cornerback Dre Bly, who the Redskins attempted to acquire last week and who has told several people he wants to play for Washington, could become available again.

-- Washington Post

In a move that illustrates the Dolphins' high level of interest in unrestricted free agent linebacker Joey Porter, coach Cam Cameron and general manager Randy Mueller traveled to visit Porter in his hometown of Bakersfield, Calif. The courtship appears to have been at least somewhat successful.

-- Miami Herald

The possibility that receiver Donté Stallworth could return to the Eagles may have been enhanced when the Patriots acquired receiver Wes Welker from the Dolphins. It does not appear as if the Dolphins are interested in giving Stallworth the kind of up-front money that agent Drew Rosenhaus is seeking for his client.

-- Philadelphia Inquirer

Trent Green and his agent, Jim Steiner, declined to answer questions about his meeting with Chiefs president and general manager Carl Peterson. Green is still a member of the Chiefs, though his time in Kansas City may be winding down. He appears to have lost his starting job since the Chiefs re-signed Damon Huard last week. The Chiefs have offered him in trade to other teams.

-- Kansas City Star

The Steelers take their first steps to try to replace Joey Porter when they have a look at the guy who was displaced in New England by Adalius Thomas. Tully Banta-Cain will visit the Steelers tomorrow.

-- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Brad Johnson is close with new Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett, who was his teammate for part of the 2004 season in Tampa Bay. Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones said the team could add a quarterback in the draft as well.

-- Dallas Morning News

Receiver Kevin Curtis, a four-year veteran with the Rams, is still scheduled to come to Giants Stadium, possibly Tuesday, but that might be delayed because Curtis fired his agent, Tom Condon, after Curtis left Detroit without a contract.

-- Newsday

Thanks for that update, that is good stuff. So the Ravens are looking at Dillon and Brown to replace Lewis, and still Lewis has not been mentioned other than in Baltimore. With the Loss of Green in Green Bay maybe Lewis would fit there, other than that the jobs are closing up for guys like him. Maybe he really is done.

 

[Bri]

Thanks for that update, that is good stuff.

you're welcome

So the Ravens are looking at Dillon and Brown to replace Lewis, and still Lewis has not been mentioned other than in Baltimore. With the Loss of Green in Green Bay maybe Lewis would fit there, other than that the jobs are closing up for guys like him. Maybe he really is done.

I don't think he's done, I don't believe anyone really does. Just a few weeks back people were supposing how well he might do in Denver others how that might not be the right system for him etc. This is a guy that was in jail last offseason and had ankle surgery then too. IIRC he's either had both knees scoped or one done twice. There's some "baggage" that I would figure is limitting his appeal in the market.The Browns still have an openning of sorts.It seems some will always think Ronnie Brown should have a complimentary back, is that Ricky? I'm not convinced Lendale White is the next great thing in Tennessee just yet.Backups, sharedYou mentioned Green. He gives the Texans time. They could wait and see that Dom retires and see how Gado and Lundy wind up doing. IF they know now, well then they need another RB because Green's no spring chicken. The Giants plan to go with Jacobs but need/want another back. As I've said before, another big back would be soooo hard for a D to handle in the 4th Q. It would also create some OL needs too though.A team like the Cowboys, IMO, should interview some of these free agents and consider trading Jones. They'd still have 2 backs but get a pick/player whatever in exchange for him. Rumors are pretty strong one week about the Skins trading a RB then the next week they die down, then strong again. It's tricky to find a team that would prefer giving up something for a RB when these FA RBs are out there PLUS all the RBs that might be available when they pick.Jamal might have to be patient but I'm confident he's good enough to play in the NFL and will find a home.

 

[perry147]

Thanks for that update, that is good stuff.

you're welcome

So the Ravens are looking at Dillon and Brown to replace Lewis, and still Lewis has not been mentioned other than in Baltimore. With the Loss of Green in Green Bay maybe Lewis would fit there, other than that the jobs are closing up for guys like him. Maybe he really is done.

I don't think he's done, I don't believe anyone really does. Just a few weeks back people were supposing how well he might do in Denver others how that might not be the right system for him etc. This is a guy that was in jail last offseason and had ankle surgery then too. IIRC he's either had both knees scoped or one done twice. There's some "baggage" that I would figure is limitting his appeal in the market.The Browns still have an openning of sorts.It seems some will always think Ronnie Brown should have a complimentary back, is that Ricky? I'm not convinced Lendale White is the next great thing in Tennessee just yet.Backups, sharedYou mentioned Green. He gives the Texans time. They could wait and see that Dom retires and see how Gado and Lundy wind up doing. IF they know now, well then they need another RB because Green's no spring chicken. The Giants plan to go with Jacobs but need/want another back. As I've said before, another big back would be soooo hard for a D to handle in the 4th Q. It would also create some OL needs too though.A team like the Cowboys, IMO, should interview some of these free agents and consider trading Jones. They'd still have 2 backs but get a pick/player whatever in exchange for him. Rumors are pretty strong one week about the Skins trading a RB then the next week they die down, then strong again. It's tricky to find a team that would prefer giving up something for a RB when these FA RBs are out there PLUS all the RBs that might be available when they pick.Jamal might have to be patient but I'm confident he's good enough to play in the NFL and will find a home.

I haven't heard this as a rumor or anything but - why can't Julius Jones be traded to the Giants for a second rounder?

 

[Bri]

I haven't heard this as a rumor or anything but - why can't Julius Jones be traded to the Giants for a second rounder?

I suppose he could but it's probably a within the division type thing

 

[Bri]

National Football League

BALTIMORE RAVENS-Re-signed RB Musa Smith to a one-year contract.

BUFFALO BILLS-Released G Tutan Reyes.

CAROLINA PANTHERS-Released QB Chris Weinke.

CHICAGO BEARS-Traded RB Thomas Jones and a 2007 second-round draft pick to the New York Jets for a 2007 second-round draft pick.

DALLAS COWBOYS-Signed QB Brad Johnson.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS-Signed LB Napoleon Harris to a six-year contract.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS-Re-signed LB Larry Izzo.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS-Agreed to terms with LB Brian Simmons on a three-year contract.

NEW YORK JETS-Signed DE Bobby Hamilton and DE Kenyon Coleman.

OAKLAND RAIDERS-Signed OL Jeremy Newberry to a one-year contract and WR Ronald Curry to a five-year contract. Named John DeFilippo quarterbacks coach, James Cregg assistant offensive line coach, Randy Hanson assistant defensive backs coach, Sanjay Lal quality control offensive coach and Kelly Skipper tight ends coach.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS-Signed P Andy Lee to an offer sheet.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS-Signed LB Tully Banta-Cain.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS-Signed OT Luke Petitgout.

 

[Bri]

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Trent Green may soon be on his way out of Kansas City.

The former Pro Bowl quarterback's agent, Jim Steiner, said Tuesday that the team is seeking to restructure Green's contract, which will pay him $7.2 million next season. The Chiefs are also entertaining offers for Green, who missed eight games last season with a severe concussion.

"We're going to look and see what his options are," Steiner said. "We're going to do that."

A statement issued by the Chiefs said conversations with Green continue to be "amicable and productive." General manager Carl Peterson met with the 37-year-old Green on Monday.

Green, who is signed through 2009, is scheduled to make $7.7 million and $9.2 million in the final two years of his contract. Damon Huard, who filled in when Green was hurt last season, recently signed a three-year deal with the Chiefs last month rather than become a free agent.

Kansas City also has Brodie Croyle, last year's third-round draft pick, to compete with Huard for the job.

Green, who played in two Pro Bowls and made 80 straight starts before getting knocked unconscious in the 2006 season-opener, became one of most popular Chiefs while directing a potent offense under former coach **** Vermeil.

When Herm Edwards took over last season, he never wavered in his support of Green, even as Huard led Kansas City into playoff contention.

Once Green was cleared to play, Edwards benched Huard and the Chiefs struggled down the stretch. Green never looked comfortable in the pocket, throwing seven touchdowns and nine interceptions, and Kansas City went 2-3 over its final five games.

His 74.1 passer rating was his lowest since 2001, his first year with the Chiefs.

A series of improbable upsets on the final day of the regular season allowed Kansas City to slip into the playoffs, where Green threw for 107 yards and intercepted twice in a 23-8 first-round loss at Indianapolis.

Huard went 5-3 as a starter, throwing for 1,878 yards with 11 touchdowns and one interception. He appeared more comfortable than Green in Edwards' ground-based offense and his 98.0 passer rating was second in the league's to Peyton Manning's.

 

[Bri]

Wide receiver Donte Stallworth came and went from Foxboro yesterday without a signed contract, which is a departure from the way the Patriots [team stats] have done business so far this dizzying free agency season.

Stallworth stands as the only player to visit Gillette Stadium and leave without a deal. That doesn’t mean the free agent receiver is off the Pats’ radar, however.

There were various reports last night that the Pats had made a hard-to-believe, six-year, $32 million offer to Stallworth.

Sources said Stallworth would make trips to Tennessee and Miami the next few days, and then choose between the various offers.

There were other reports that Stallworth actually agreed to a deal, but those were apparently false alarms.

Stallworth reportedly is in the NFL’s substance abuse program, which means he could be subjected to a suspension with another violation. As a result, the Pats would likely protect themselves with a contract that would hold back money if Stallworth ran afoul of the program again.

There were also reports that Stallworth would accept a one-year, incentive-laden deal with an eye toward having a big year and going for the big free agent strike next year. Those rumblings didn’t seem to jibe with the offer purportedly set forth by the Pats.

Stallworth’s agent are Drew Rosenhaus and his brother, Jason. While the pair largely avoided comment on Stallworth’s status, such confusion is not unusual with Rosenhaus clients.

Izzo stays on

It turns out New York Jets [team stats] coach Eric Mangini can’t get his hands on every available Patriots player.

Special teams captain Larry Izzo [stats] said the Jets were one of two teams (his hometown Texans were the other) to express interest in his services as a free agent, but he decided to return to the Pats with a new deal.

 

[Bri]

nfl.com

Free agency has opened with a flurry of activity. Already, numerous teams are on the board. Take a glance at the deals, and the potential soon-to-be deals.

Tuesday, March 6

Denver reached an agreement Tuesday night with TE Daniel Graham on a five-year, $30 million contract that includes $15 million guaranteed. The deal makes Graham the highest-paid tight end in the NFL.

Minnesota reached an agreement with free agent wide receiver Bobby Wade on a five-year, $15 million deal.

The Raiders landed their first free agent by signing C Jeremy Newberry to a one-year contract. The deal included no bonus money.

The Cincinnati Bengals reached agreement with TE Reggie Kelly on a three-year, $9 million deal that includes a $3 million signing bonus.

Free-agent wide receiver Donte Stallworth received an offer from the New England Patriots. He is scheduled to meet March 7 with Titans officials in Tennessee and with the Dolphins on March 8.

The Miami Dolphins and LB Joey Porter have reached agreement on a five-year, $32.5 million deal that includes $20 million worth of guaranteed money.

Newly-acquired running back Thomas Jones has signed a four-year, $20 million contract that includes $12 million worth of guaranteed money, with the New York Jets. He was scheduled to go into the last year of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent after the 2007 season.

Miami free-agent fullback Darian Barnes met with the Jets.

San Francisco has signed free-agent LB Tully Banta-Cain to a three-year, $8.7 million deal, which includes a $2.9 million signing bonus. Pittsburgh and St. Louis each had been interested in signing Banta-Cain.

The Chiefs are offering Trent Green the chance to return at a restructured contract, but they granted him permission to talk to other teams to see what other opportunities might be afforded him.

Free-agent LB Napoleon Harris has reached an agreement with the Kansas City Chiefs on a six-year, $24 million deal that includes $7.5 million in guaranteed money and $13 million in the first three years.

Free-agent tackle Luke Petitgout has reached agreement with Tampa Bay on a three-year, $15.5 million deal that includes a $6 million guaranteed money.

Carolina cut veteran quarterback Chris Weinke.

Buffalo cut veteran guard Tutan Reyes.

Seattle free-agent tight end Jerramy Stevens visited the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Arizona free-agent cornerback David Macklin visited the Chiefs.

Chicago free-agent safety Todd Johnson visited Miami.

San Francisco free-agent tight end Eric Johnson and Cincinnati free-agent safety Kevin Kaesviharn visited the Saints.

Denver free-agent guard Cooper Carlisle visited the Seattle Seahawks.

Free-agent quarterback Marques Tuiasosopo visited the Cleveland Browns and is scheduled to visit the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers later this week.

St. Louis free-agent wide receiver Shaun McDonald is in Detroit today; the Chargers and Eagles Dolphins and Raiders are also interested in his service.

Tennessee free-agent running back Chris Brown is scheduled to visit the Buffalo Bills on Wednesday.

Free-agent RB T.J. Duckett is in Detroit visiting with Lions. Duckett is scheduled to visit the New York Jets on Wednesday and the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday.

Free-agent fullback Justin Griffith will be visiting Green Bay today.

 

[Bri]

NFL free agency movement since 1993 Category '93 '94 '95 '96 '97 '98 '99 '00 '01 '02 '03 '04 '05 '06 Unrestricted 108 121 171 99 85 110 115 107 93 130 111 124 104 149 Restricted 8 7 6 4 2 4 2 4 4 1 5 1 3 4 Transition 4 4 2 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 Franchise 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 TOTALS 121 132 179 105 89 117 118 111 97 131 117 126 107 154

 

[Bri]

2007 FRANCHISE PLAYER DESIGNATIONS Player Position  Club Lance Briggs LB  Chicago Josh Brown K  Seattle Dwight Freeney*  DE  Indianapolis Charles Grant  DE  New Orleans Cory Redding  DT  Detroit Asante Samuel  CB  New England Justin Smith  DE  Cincinnati * Exclusive franchise player

 

[Bri]

free agency Q&A (FAQ)

http://www.nfl.com/freeagency/qa

 

[Bri]

Pats change in free agent philosophy?

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/03/06/sports/pats.php

 

[Bri]

comp picks

Over the past 10 years, the teams that had the most compensatory picks were the Packers, Cowboys, Ravens, Rams, Eagles, Patriots, Bucs, Jaguars, Bears, Steelers and Titans. Only two of those 11 teams -- the Cowboys and Jaguars -- failed to reach the Super Bowl during that stretch.

In the same time frame, the teams with the fewest compensatory picks were the Browns, Texans, Jets, Bengals, Panthers, Falcons, Redskins, Chargers, Colts and Saints. Only two of those teams -- the Panthers and Colts -- played in a Super Bowl in that period.

Coincidence? I think not.

Compensatory picks are awarded to teams that lose more unrestricted free agents than they sign (players who are cut do not factor into the equation). The highest selection a team can get as compensation is a pick at the end of the third round.

The formula by which comp picks are awarded is a more closely guarded secret than the recipe for the Colonel's greasy chicken. Even NFL teams don't know it. But the picks are determined by the difference of the contracts signed by the players lost and the players acquired, as well as by the performances of the players. At least part of the formula is subjective.

No team has played the compensatory pick game better than the Ravens. They have allowed some fine players to leave as free agents -- including linebacker Ed Hartwell, running back Chester Taylor, cornerback Gary Baxter, defensive tackle Maake Kemoeatu, end Anthony Weaver, safety Will Demps, center Jeff Mitchell and corner Duane Starks. But with compensatory picks, they have drafted Taylor, fullback Ovie Mughelli, offensive tackle Tony Pashos and guard Edwin Mulitalo, among others.

 

[Bri]

democrat and chronicle

If the Buffalo Bills truly are looking to unload running back Willis McGahee, their list of potential trade partners is shrinking rapidly.

On Monday the Denver Broncos, who were known to have contacted the Bills in regards to McGahee's availability, opted instead for another back with Buffalo ties, ex-Bill Travis Henry.

The Broncos jumped on Henry almost as soon as he was released by Tennessee and inked him to a five-year deal that included a reported $12 million in guaranteed money, by far the biggest payday of his checkered NFL career that now includes three 1,200-yard rushing seasons.

And Houston, the team that could have had Reggie Bush in the 2006 draft and then lost starter Domanick Davis for the entire 2006 season because of a knee injury, signed 30-year-old Ahman Green to a four-year, $23 million contract.

The team that first made inquiries about McGahee, the New York Giants, have not filled the hole left by the retirement of Tiki Barber.

But they had Indianapolis free agent Dominic Rhodes in for a visit over the weekend, and while he did not sign with the team, there appears to be interest and the signings of Henry and Green could speed up negotiations.

At the recently completed NFL scouting combine, Giants general manager Jerry Reese said the Bills had let it be known that they were interested in talking trade for McGahee.

"There is some Willis McGahee talk, there is some talk about Willis out there," said Reese, whose No. 1 running back right now is Brandon Jacobs. "We'll investigate Willis, we'll do that. We'll investigate everybody out there with the trade talk. We'll leave no stone unturned as far as that goes.

"In this day and age you always want to have two running backs. Every team has to have two good running backs and we feel that Brandon Jacobs is going to carry the majority of the load for us. But we will definitely look for a teammate to share the backfield with him."

Other teams that could be looking for a running back are Oakland, Cleveland, Green Bay (now that Green is gone), Baltimore (just cut Jamal Lewis), and possibly the New York Jets.

Although, the Jets may have addressed their need by reportedly completing a trade with the Chicago Bears for Thomas Jones.

 

[Bri]

Adam Caplan's blog

Tampa Bay also had TE Jerramy Stevens (Seattle Seahawks) in for a visit on Tuesday.

New Orleans also had free agent TE Eric Johnson (San Francisco 49ers) in for a visit on Tuesday. Johnson, according to a league source, doesn’t have other visits set up yet.

UPDATED TUESDAY 7:00 PM EST

According to a league source, free agent TE Mike Seidman (Carolina Panthers) has visited the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. Seidman has had injury problems in recent seasons but still has good athleticism.

Free agent RB Chris Brown (Tennessee Titans) has drawn interest from the Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packers, Baltimore Ravens, and Cleveland Browns. Tennessee also has shown interest in re-signing him.

UPDATED TUESDAY 5:00 PM EST

Lewis Deal Still Possible?

League sources indicated to scout.com Tuesday that the Baltimore Ravens still have Jamal Lewis as their top priority to re-sign. If they can’t get a deal done with him within 48 hours, the club is expected to turn their attention to other options at running back such as Willis McGahee of the Buffalo Bills as scout.com first noted earlier today.

Nate's Numbers

There’s been a lot of talk about free agent CB Nate Clements and the contract he signed with the San Francisco 49ers.

Howard Balzer takes a look at the entire contract for the Sports Xchange:

Any way you look at it, cornerback Nate Clements received a monster contract from the San Francisco 49ers. But the reality is, it's not an $80 million deal.

Breaking down the deal by year, Clements did not receive a signing bonus, but there is a $10 million roster bonus this year, which counts immediately against the salary cap. He will also receive a guaranteed $10 million option bonus in 2008, which for cap purposes will prorate against the cap from 2008 through 2013 at $1.67 million a year.

Once the option is exercised, the final year of the contract (2014) is voided, wiping out close to $16 million in compensation. Thus, for practical purposes, it is a 7-year, $64.02 million contract, not an 8-year, $80 million deal. In addition, the final two years of the deal carry a combined $19.87 million in salary and workout bonuses.

His base salaries total $7.5 million for the first three years, before his salary jumps to $6 million in 2010. Clements will also receive a $500,000 off-season workout bonus in each year of the contract.

Still relatively young, Clements turned 27 this past December. At the end of the 2011 season, he will be 32.

YEAR SALARY

BONUS

WORKOUT

CAP

2007

$600,000 $10.0M (RB) $500,000 $11.1M

2008 $3,383,334 $10.0M (OB) $500,000 $5.5M

2009 $3,516,666 NA $500,000 $5.68M

2010 $6.0M NA $500,000 $8.17M

2011 $7.25M NA $500,000 $9.42M

2012 $9.0m NA $500,000 $11.17M

2013

$10.77M NA $500,000 12.94M

Clements will receive $11.1M in 2007; $24,983,334 through 2008; $29M through 2009; $35.5M through 2010 and $43.25M through 2011.

UPDATED TUESDAY 12:05 PM EST

A league source has told scout.com’s Adam Caplan and Ravensinsider that the Baltimore Ravens are working on a deal to acquire a running back because they haven't been able to re-sign RB Jamal Lewis to this point.

While it’s not known what running back they're trying to acquire, it’s not a secret that the Buffalo Bills are trying to deal RB Willis McGahee.

There are other backs that could be acquired via trade such as San Diego’s Michael Turner who is a restricted free agent. The team placed the highest tender possible on him (first and third-round picks) but San Diego also knows he'll walk next year when he would be an unrestricted free agent.

The Ravens also have had conversations with the representatives of free agent RB Chris Brown and Corey Dillon.

 

[Bri]

KFFL

Texans | Clark visits with team

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 21:52:22 -0800

Jim Carley, of HoustonTexans.com, reports the Houston Texans visited with free agent LB Danny Clark (Saints) Tuesday, March 6.

Texans | Ramsey visits with team

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 21:20:08 -0800

Jim Carley, of HoustonTexans.com, reports the Houston Texans visited with free agent QB Patrick Ramsey (Jets) Tuesday, March 6.

Dolphins | T. Johnson visits Tuesday

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 21:05:10 -0800

MiamiDolphins.com reports the Miami Dolphins visited with free agent SS Todd Johnson (Bears) Tuesday, March 6.

Broncos | Wright will meet with team Wednesday

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 20:36:07 -0800

Mark Curnutte, of the Cincinnati Enquirer, reports free agent QB Anthony Wright will meet with the Denver Broncos Wednesday, March 7.

Bengals | R. Kelly signs three-year contract

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 20:34:12 -0800

Mark Curnutte, of the Cincinnati Enquirer, reports the Cincinnati Bengals have re-signed free agent TE Reggie Kelly to a three-year contract. Agent Jimmy Sexton told a team employee the deal was worth a total of $9 million.

49ers | Strickland re-signed

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 19:57:38 -0800

Matt Maiocco, of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat, reports the San Francisco 49ers have re-signed free agent CB Donald Strickland. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Steelers | Team contacts Mahan

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 19:43:03 -0800

John Murphy, of Yahoo! Sports, reports the Pittsburgh Steelers have contacted free agent OL Sean Mahan (Buccaneers).

Dolphins | Team showing interest in Feely

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 19:01:36 -0800

Arthur Staple, of Newsday, reports the Miami Dolphins are showing interest in free agent PK Jay Feely (Giants).

Giants | Team makes offer to Feely

Tue, 6 Mar 2007 18:59:51 -0800

Arthur Staple, of Newsday, reports free agent PK Jay Feely (Giants) has received an offer from the New York Giants.

 

[Bri]

boston globe(3/4)

While much talk has been expended on the Patriots' possible interest in Randy Moss, a far more viable possibility is being dangled in Seattle. The Seahawks would like to trade Darrell Jackson for a first-day pick but not a first-round selection.

 

[Bri]

nate clements interview

http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=184592

adalius thomas interview

http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=184589