Titans talk Lendale (1 Viewer)

[bigreese82]

http://tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/articl...387/1328/SPORTS

Thursday, 03/08/07

Spotlight turns to White

Second-round pick only option at RB

By PAUL KUHARSKY

Staff Writer

After his rookie season with the Titans, LenDale White said he wanted the starting running back job.

For the time being, it's his.

Monday's departure of Travis Henry, who signed with the Denver Broncos, leaves White as the feature back, at least until the Titans add a veteran to compete for the role.

White said he was sad to lose Henry as a friend, teammate and mentor.

"But at the same time there was a little happiness because now I know that hopefully the job will be mine," he said. "It's, 'OK, this is what everybody drafted me for.' I get to prove Coach (Jeff) Fisher and Coach (Norm) Chow right.

"They drafted me and wanted me to come in and be the guy and now that Travis is gone it looks like I'll be the man. This is an opportunity to really showcase what I can do and I am really excited about it."

The Titans no longer believe a single back can carry the load, however.

Fisher reiterated what he's said many times since Eddie George, the team's all-time leading rusher, was released following the 2003 season: no one will be expected to carry the ball as much as George did. He had 69 percent of the team's carries over eight seasons.

"We drafted LenDale for a reason," Fisher said. "We feel like he has a chance to be a very productive back. … With that said, we expect to have two that we can call upon, at least."

That means the Titans will bring in a veteran or spend another draft pick on the position. Quinton Ganther, a seventh-round pick last year, will also have a shot at a role.

"Not to be rude or say anybody that comes in is not as good, but I really don't care who they bring in," White said. "I'm really worried about myself at this point and what I can contribute to the team."

Conditioning question

As a rookie last season White was a bit late to training camp, missed some time because of injuries and sickness and was suspended for a preseason game after spitting at a teammate during a practice field confrontation.

Though he ranked as the No. 2 running back for most of the season, he never forced the Titans to give him consistent carries, finishing with just 61 for 244 yards and no touchdowns. As he headed into the offseason there were questions about his work ethic, commitment and conditioning.

"You just want to see the focus and the determination," Titans General Manager Mike Reinfeldt said. "It's a year-round job now, that's what we're hoping to see."

The way White is built, he may never have what people consider a sculpted body. But he said the conditioning issue is overblown.

"Last year when I came to camp I was 231 pounds, 232 pounds, exactly where they wanted me," he said. "I went through all the drills my first day back. … I ran my 300-yard shuttle in the time I was supposed to. I did everything I was supposed to do."

Still, he said, his first NFL season gave him the context he needs to move forward successfully. He plans to be a regular at the team's offseason conditioning sessions, working under strength and conditioning coach Steve Watterson and his assistant Jason Novak.

"Now that I know what the season is like, now that I know what I've got to look ahead to, I'm going to be with Steve Watterson and Jason and I'm going to be in the best shape I can be in," White said. "For the most part I have a pretty good idea of what I need to do."

Lots to prove

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans.

"LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

At least part of White's motivation to succeed is to validate the faith Fisher and Chow have showed in him and to make his family proud. He talked about the line of recent feature backs, from George to Chris Brown to Henry.

"I'm ready for people to count on me," he said.

"I'm excited to get this season going and show everybody I am a football player and I can walk in the footsteps of the great backs who have been here before."

 

[Bizkiteer]

Talk, talk, talk...I don't wish him back luck, but I'll believe it when I see it.

 

[Colin Dowling]

I'm waiting with crossed-fingers for the "Rhodes in Nashville visiting today..." threads.

 

[Serenity Now]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

 

[Colin Dowling]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

It does? I think it's a simple comment made in passing about a former teammate on the way out of town.

 

[CA_7]

I'm waiting with crossed-fingers for the "Rhodes in Nashville visiting today..." threads.

Early Wednesday, one national report indicated Colts running back Dominic Rhodes was scheduled to visit Tennessee later this week as well, but Rhodes' agent said while he's been in communication with the Titans, no visit had been set up. While the Titans are interested in another back to fill the void left by Henry, White's clearly on the spot.http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/ar.../703080395/1027

 

[bostonfred]

This is why strength and conditioning coach is the most underrated coaching position in the NFL. If they can get this guy into NFL shape, I think he can be a quality #2 RB. If not, he won't even start. I traded for him late last season in two keeper leagues because I think he will have the opportunity to be a feature back this year, but I'm under no delusions that he's a sure thing because the Titans aren't, either.

 

[Michael Fox Fan]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

Are you another irrational Lendale hater? Henry's quote sounds like an honest comment from a guy who knows how tough & competitive the NFL is. I'd call it a positive when a solid starting RB says "he can be special".

 

[Serenity Now]

I couldn't care less about White one way or another. Feeling a little sensitive today?

I think the comment clearly hints at a question of whether White will be committed to working hard all the time. He could easily have said something like, "I think he's ready to handle the job" or "It's a great opportunity yadda, yadda".

 

[perry147]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

Are you another irrational Lendale hater? Henry's quote sounds like an honest comment from a guy who knows how tough & competitive the NFL is. I'd call it a positive when a solid starting RB says "he can be special".

You have to take this comment in the context that it was used; Landale has been known to have work ethic problems and bad attitude - therefore I think this is just another reflection of that sentiment.

 

[redman]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

Are you another irrational Lendale hater? Henry's quote sounds like an honest comment from a guy who knows how tough & competitive the NFL is. I'd call it a positive when a solid starting RB says "he can be special".

You have to take this comment in the context that it was used; Landale has been known to have work ethic problems and bad attitude - therefore I think this is just another reflection of that sentiment.

It could also be the comment of a mentor and friend on his way out making one last challenge to his pupil. This is reading tea leaves. The far more important "comment" to me is the fact that the Titans have sent Henry packing in favor of using White as the starter.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

Are you another irrational Lendale hater? Henry's quote sounds like an honest comment from a guy who knows how tough & competitive the NFL is. I'd call it a positive when a solid starting RB says "he can be special".

You have to take this comment in the context that it was used; Landale has been known to have work ethic problems and bad attitude - therefore I think this is just another reflection of that sentiment.

It could also be the comment of a mentor and friend on his way out making one last challenge to his pupil. This is reading tea leaves. The far more important "comment" to me is the fact that the Titans have sent Henry packing in favor of using White as the starter.

I don't know, they seem to be scrabling a bit now. Talk that they want Brown back and such. I think they didn't expect Henry to snatched up so fast. The poor job in negotiations made so they had no option, but to release him. Now they are left with a RB that they like in potential, but seems very young in behavior. Remember, even when Brown was moved to 3rd string, White didn't get that much action. If they knew he was going to be the man because they were so high on him, then why little to no action? I think there are reasons a few franchises are not that great and here is an example of why they aren't. Similar to how McNair was handled or should I say mis-managed.

 

[redman]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

Are you another irrational Lendale hater? Henry's quote sounds like an honest comment from a guy who knows how tough & competitive the NFL is. I'd call it a positive when a solid starting RB says "he can be special".

You have to take this comment in the context that it was used; Landale has been known to have work ethic problems and bad attitude - therefore I think this is just another reflection of that sentiment.

It could also be the comment of a mentor and friend on his way out making one last challenge to his pupil. This is reading tea leaves. The far more important "comment" to me is the fact that the Titans have sent Henry packing in favor of using White as the starter.

I don't know, they seem to be scrabling a bit now. Talk that they want Brown back and such. I think they didn't expect Henry to snatched up so fast. The poor job in negotiations made so they had no option, but to release him. Now they are left with a RB that they like in potential, but seems very young in behavior. Remember, even when Brown was moved to 3rd string, White didn't get that much action. If they knew he was going to be the man because they were so high on him, then why little to no action? I think there are reasons a few franchises are not that great and here is an example of why they aren't. Similar to how McNair was handled or should I say mis-managed.

Tough to compare the McNair situation because that was Floyd Reese's debacle, and he's no longer there. You may be right though, but if so I'd have thought that they'd have gotten more guys in after Henry was signed, such as Dillon or Rhodes and made a serious run at signing them, or Brown who they don't even really need to interview. I don't sense panic there.

 

[Otis]

chubby

 

[Bizkiteer]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

Are you another irrational Lendale hater? Henry's quote sounds like an honest comment from a guy who knows how tough & competitive the NFL is. I'd call it a positive when a solid starting RB says "he can be special".

You have to take this comment in the context that it was used; Landale has been known to have work ethic problems and bad attitude - therefore I think this is just another reflection of that sentiment.

It could also be the comment of a mentor and friend on his way out making one last challenge to his pupil. This is reading tea leaves. The far more important "comment" to me is the fact that the Titans have sent Henry packing in favor of using White as the starter.

I don't know, they seem to be scrabling a bit now. Talk that they want Brown back and such. I think they didn't expect Henry to snatched up so fast. The poor job in negotiations made so they had no option, but to release him. Now they are left with a RB that they like in potential, but seems very young in behavior. Remember, even when Brown was moved to 3rd string, White didn't get that much action. If they knew he was going to be the man because they were so high on him, then why little to no action? I think there are reasons a few franchises are not that great and here is an example of why they aren't. Similar to how McNair was handled or should I say mis-managed.

Tough to compare the McNair situation because that was Floyd Reese's debacle, and he's no longer there. You may be right though, but if so I'd have thought that they'd have gotten more guys in after Henry was signed, such as Dillon or Rhodes and made a serious run at signing them, or Brown who they don't even really need to interview. I don't sense panic there.

Possible...panic might be too strong because let's face it, they drafted L. White for a reason. Puch come to shove, even if they weren't keen on it, he'd have to be the man. They are not a real contending team, so it's okay to a take a risk. I do think that when you snub a player (Brown) and not give him the time of day, then all of a sudden you mention that you want him back...that is what seems like scrambling to me. We'll see soon enough.

 

[redman]

Henry said he will be curious to see how White pans out with the Titans."LenDale can be special, and if he does the things he says he's going to do, yeah, I think he can be good," Henry said. "But it is easier said than done."

That says a lot about what Henry thinks of White's work ethic.

Are you another irrational Lendale hater? Henry's quote sounds like an honest comment from a guy who knows how tough & competitive the NFL is. I'd call it a positive when a solid starting RB says "he can be special".

You have to take this comment in the context that it was used; Landale has been known to have work ethic problems and bad attitude - therefore I think this is just another reflection of that sentiment.

It could also be the comment of a mentor and friend on his way out making one last challenge to his pupil. This is reading tea leaves. The far more important "comment" to me is the fact that the Titans have sent Henry packing in favor of using White as the starter.

I don't know, they seem to be scrabling a bit now. Talk that they want Brown back and such. I think they didn't expect Henry to snatched up so fast. The poor job in negotiations made so they had no option, but to release him. Now they are left with a RB that they like in potential, but seems very young in behavior. Remember, even when Brown was moved to 3rd string, White didn't get that much action. If they knew he was going to be the man because they were so high on him, then why little to no action? I think there are reasons a few franchises are not that great and here is an example of why they aren't. Similar to how McNair was handled or should I say mis-managed.

Tough to compare the McNair situation because that was Floyd Reese's debacle, and he's no longer there. You may be right though, but if so I'd have thought that they'd have gotten more guys in after Henry was signed, such as Dillon or Rhodes and made a serious run at signing them, or Brown who they don't even really need to interview. I don't sense panic there.

Possible...panic might be too strong because let's face it, they drafted L. White for a reason. Puch come to shove, even if they weren't keen on it, he'd have to be the man. They are not a real contending team, so it's okay to a take a risk. I do think that when you snub a player (Brown) and not give him the time of day, then all of a sudden you mention that you want him back...that is what seems like scrambling to me. We'll see soon enough.

I agree that Brown can't be enthusiastic about returning to the team, but his use last year has to be attributed to the coaching staff and not the front office, no? They've already said that they want to bring in someone else, so we'll just have to see what they do in that regard. I have a feeling it's going to a lesser FA of some kind who won't radically change the lay of the land there.BTW, as far as the Titans being a playoff team, everyone not named Indy in that division is playing for second place, but that said I can't see a reason why the Titans aren't in as good or better shape to make a wild card run from that division as the Texans or Jags. Their QB situation certainly seems better right now than those two teams.

 

[Colin Dowling]

I can't imagine a scenario where Chris Brown would return to Tennessee.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I can't imagine a scenario where Chris Brown would return to Tennessee.

Agree 110%

 

[Todem]

This is why strength and conditioning coach is the most underrated coaching position in the NFL. I think he can be a quality #2 RB. If not, he won't even start. I traded for him late last season in two keeper leagues because I think he will have the opportunity to be a feature back this year, but I'm under no delusions that he's a sure thing because the Titans aren't, either.

Here is the problem. Lendale White does not have the desire nor the discipline to get into true NFL shape. They ( the coaches) can try till they are blue in the face....but White has to want to get into shape and stay in shape ( off season ribs and KFC diet)He will be a bust because he has no true work ethic. This is what seperates the men from the boys.

 

[redman]

This is why strength and conditioning coach is the most underrated coaching position in the NFL. I think he can be a quality #2 RB. If not, he won't even start. I traded for him late last season in two keeper leagues because I think he will have the opportunity to be a feature back this year, but I'm under no delusions that he's a sure thing because the Titans aren't, either.

Here is the problem. Lendale White does not have the desire nor the discipline to get into true NFL shape. They ( the coaches) can try till they are blue in the face....but White has to want to get into shape and stay in shape ( off season ribs and KFC diet)He will be a bust because he has no true work ethic. This is what seperates the men from the boys.

You seem to know White very well. What is he saying about Henry leaving for Denver?

 

[Riffraff]

Here is the problem. Lendale White does not have the desire nor the discipline to get into true NFL shape.

Please provide the source you have for this seemingly factual information. Or state that it is your opinion to which we can disregard like any other anonymous messageboard poster (such as myself).

 

[trader jake]

Here is the problem. Lendale White does not have the desire nor the discipline to get into true NFL shape.

Please provide the source you have for this seemingly factual information. Or state that it is your opinion to which we can disregard like any other anonymous messageboard poster (such as myself).

link Every positive and negative that we debated last year leading up to the draft is still in place now. Most agree that LenDale could be special in the NFL but that his questionable work ethic may cause him to be a bust. We do know that the questions surrounding him dropped him to the 45th pick when he had top 15 ability. His lack of field time last season also must raise some questions.

I can't imagine too many opinions on White have changed in the last 12 months...even those who are on the fence regarding him.

 

[redman]

Here is the problem. Lendale White does not have the desire nor the discipline to get into true NFL shape.

Please provide the source you have for this seemingly factual information.

Or state that it is your opinion to which we can disregard like any other anonymous messageboard poster (such as myself).

link

Every positive and negative that we debated last year leading up to the draft is still in place now. Most agree that LenDale could be special in the NFL but that his questionable work ethic may cause him to be a bust. We do know that the questions surrounding him dropped him to the 45th pick when he had top 15 ability. His lack of field time last season also must raise some questions.

I can't imagine too many opinions on White have changed in the last 12 months...even those who are on the fence regarding him.

Key word.

I see you admit that you don't have any sources that post-date April of last year. Not very convincing. Even reading this it only mentions "questions", and not who had those questions, and notably a guy on the Titans staff with first-hand knowledge vouched for him:

The "Thunder'' to Reggie Bush's "Lightning'' at USC, White was seen as a top 15 pick until questions about his work ethic, his weight and a hamstring injury that prevented him from running the 40-yard dash before the draft. He dropped to the 45th pick overall Saturday.Coach Jeff Fisher said there were published reports about a positive drug test at the NFL Combine.

"That is not correct,'' he said. "We got the results from all the testing at the combine. The reports were false. We just feel considering the ability that he has and the production he has and the running style that he brings to this franchise, this was a player we could not pass up.''

Fisher tapped Chow's knowledge of White, a junior who left USC early. Chow helped recruit White and vouched for him with the Titans.

[/quot]

 

[Gr00vus]

I can't imagine a scenario where Chris Brown would return to Tennessee.

What if he left something there?PS. I'd bet on Lendale having a good season (if he stays healthy of course).

 

[trader jake]

Here is the problem. Lendale White does not have the desire nor the discipline to get into true NFL shape.

Please provide the source you have for this seemingly factual information. Or state that it is your opinion to which we can disregard like any other anonymous messageboard poster (such as myself).

link Every positive and negative that we debated last year leading up to the draft is still in place now. Most agree that LenDale could be special in the NFL but that his questionable work ethic may cause him to be a bust. We do know that the questions surrounding him dropped him to the 45th pick when he had top 15 ability. His lack of field time last season also must raise some questions.

I can't imagine too many opinions on White have changed in the last 12 months...even those who are on the fence regarding him.

Key word. I see you admit that you don't have any sources that post-date April of last year. Not very convincing. Even reading this it only mentions "questions", and not who had those questions, and notably a guy on the Titans staff with first-hand knowledge vouched for him:

Redman - the link was a joke. My point being that there are no links one can provide to proof nor disprove a stance on LenDale since he was drafted because nothing has changed.The same hopes based on his ability and upside are there as well as the questions regarding his conditioning and desire. With LenDale it all comes down to...Do you believe he'll put in the work to be a solid NFL running back?

Personally, I don't have a strong opinion either way. I could see him being a complete bust, however I could also see the light bulb going on for the guy and watching him play at a Pro-Bowl level.

 

[trader jake]

bump

Sorry Redman but the most recent developments in LenDale's waistline would seem to confirm a lot of the fears about his desire and work ethic.

 

[Traders2001]

LenDale White weighed in at over 260 pounds when he checked in to Tennessee's offseason conditioning program. He finishes last season at 230 pounds.

At least he showed up. That said, White apparently hasn't learned much after gaining a reputation for a lazy work ethic as a rookie. He has a golden opportunity to be quality starter this year, but doesn't appear to want it that badly. Stay tuned for who Tennessee pairs him with.

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/Home_NFL.aspx

 

[redman]

Lovely.

 

[Guinis72]

I saw an interview with Jeff Fisher last night on NFL Network where he said that the starting job is not going to be handed to LenDale and they expect to have 1 more RB in camp. He was saying it's going to be an open competition but the impression I got from the interview was basically that he expects LenDale to be the starter.

 

[mtffl2]

if your only job is to lift weights and run.... how can someone be so out of shape!

this is shaping up to be a terrible off season for the titans...

 

[FavreCo]

["They drafted me and wanted me to come in and be the guy and now that Travis is gone it looks like I'll be the man. This is an opportunity to really showcase what I can do and I am really excited about it."

Taking the local all you can eat buffet to school is not what the Titans were looking for.

 

[Banger]

I saw an interview with Jeff Fisher last night on NFL Network where he said that the starting job is not going to be handed to LenDale and they expect to have 1 more RB in camp. He was saying it's going to be an open competition but the impression I got from the interview was basically that he expects LenDale to be the starter.

I'm sure Fisher wants him to be their RB but at this point it doesn't look like White wants it bad enough. There's a while for White to right the ship but it's always a little alarming when a player seems to lack that killer drive/work ethic and has to be pushed/prodded/competed with to get the desired results. Those players tend not to make it too long in the league. Maybe the light will come on at some point but he's been given a golden opportunity this offseason and it looks at this point like he may be squandering it.

 

[redman]

["They drafted me and wanted me to come in and be the guy and now that Travis is gone it looks like I'll be the man. This is an opportunity to really showcase what I can do and I am really excited about it."

Taking the local all you can eat buffet to school is not what the Titans were looking for.

He was practicing falling forward after hitting the buffet. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

 

[Guinis72]

I saw an interview with Jeff Fisher last night on NFL Network where he said that the starting job is not going to be handed to LenDale and they expect to have 1 more RB in camp. He was saying it's going to be an open competition but the impression I got from the interview was basically that he expects LenDale to be the starter.

I'm sure Fisher wants him to be their RB but at this point it doesn't look like White wants it bad enough. There's a while for White to right the ship but it's always a little alarming when a player seems to lack that killer drive/work ethic and has to be pushed/prodded/competed with to get the desired results. Those players tend not to make it too long in the league. Maybe the light will come on at some point but he's been given a golden opportunity this offseason and it looks at this point like he may be squandering it.

I agree 100%. I guess I may need to start shopping LenDale!

 

[Marc Faletti]

Ye gads. 260?

I spent most of last season explaining why I thought he'd be fine in 2007 and beyond, but something clicked with me this offseason, and it kinda dawned on me that flakes like lendale seldom flip the switch -- at least, not with their first team.

I avoided him in my recent dynasty draft despite him dropping like a rock. Or should that be Jell-O?

260. REEEEEdiculous.

 

[THE UNDERCOVER BROTHA]

Glad i dumped this guy in a few.....i hope he pans out though....

 

[waylander]

I posted this in the other fatdale thread.

John McLain (Houston Chronicle) is on the radio right now (104.5 the zone) disputing the yahoo story. Says he talked to Jeff and others at the facility today and there is ZERO validity to him reporting over his 'playing weight'...

 

[redman]

I posted this in the other fatdale thread.John McLain (Houston Chronicle) is on the radio right now (104.5 the zone) disputing the yahoo story. Says he talked to Jeff and others at the facility today and there is ZERO validity to him reporting over his 'playing weight'...

So it's a big, fat lie?

 

[waylander]

I posted this in the other fatdale thread.John McLain (Houston Chronicle) is on the radio right now (104.5 the zone) disputing the yahoo story. Says he talked to Jeff and others at the facility today and there is ZERO validity to him reporting over his 'playing weight'...

So it's a big, fat lie?

If John McLain can be believed...and normally he can.

 

[enfuego]

I can pretty much GUARANTEE the Titans will be bringing in a couple RB's yet...maybe a mid to late value rookie and a solid vet with 1-2 years left...keep watching.