*** Official 2013 NFL OTAs & Minicamp Thread *** (1 Viewer)

By Chris Wesseling

Around the League Writer

Most of the stories coming out of organized team activities and minicamps over the next month and a half will be over-analyzed in a slow news cycle. Players don't wear pads, and no hitting is allowed. Veterans tend to take it easy. The most important takeaways involve position battles, rookies earning major roles, veterans returning from injury and the implementation of new offenses.

With that in mind, let's preview the offseason storylines for each AFC team.

Baltimore Ravens
Can Tandon Doss or Deonte Thompson make up enough ground to push Jacoby Jones back into the third receiver role? If not, general manager Ozzie Newsome may pursue a veteran receiver this summer. ... First- and second-rounders Matt Elam and Arthur Brown should have the inside track on the strong safety and inside linebacker jobs, respectively.

Buffalo Bills
It starts with the rookies. Can EJ Manuel clean up his sloppy footwork and mechanics in time to make the quarterback job his to lose entering training camp? ... The Bills believe second-rounder Robert Woods is NFL ready, but he may have to hold off playmaking undrafted free agent Da'Rick Rogers for the starting job opposite Stevie Johnson. ... Will the new regime finally take the training wheels off of running back C.J. Spiller and feature him as the offensive centerpiece?



Cincinnati Bengals
Keep an eye on first-rounder Tyler Eifert and second-rounder Giovani Bernard. The Bengals made it clear during rookie minicamp that both draft picks are headed for major roles as the team seeks playmakers to complement wide receiver A.J. Green. ... It will be interesting to see how linebacker James Harrison looks in a 4-3 defense for the first time in his career.

Cleveland Browns
The Browns insist Brandon Weeden and Jason Campbell are on equal footing, but the team's brass expects last year's first-rounder to emerge as the team's starting quarterback. It shouldn't take long before Weeden begins shouldering the greater share of the first-team reps. ... Former hoopster Jordan Cameron is a breakout candidate in the tight end-friendly offense of Rob Chudzinski and Norv Turner. ... The Browns are quietly assembling a nasty defensive front seven to keep up with the rest of the AFC North bruisers.

Denver Broncos
Willis McGahee is on notice with the second-round selection of Montee Ball. If McGahee's knee doesn't bounce all the way back from last year's compression fracture and torn medical collateral ligament, his roster spot could be in jeopardy. ... Have Peyton Manning and Wes Welker developed an easy rapport after working out together at Duke University in April?

Houston Texans
First-rounder DeAndre Hopkins stole the show at rookie minicamp. Will he continue to look "special" once the veterans are mixed in? ... Brian Cushing likely will be held out of spring practices, but a better read on his availability should be known for the start of training camp. ... Second-rounder D.J. Swearinger will have the opportunity to make an impression at free safety while Ed Reed recovers from hip surgery.

Indianapolis Colts
New offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton is bringing West Coast principles to Indianapolis. But how different is his offense from Bruce Arians' vertical attack? ... Can the retooled offensive line keep quarterback Andrew Luck in one piece this season? If Luck is going to emerge as an elite passer, tight end Coby Fleener and wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey will have to play better than they did in 2012.

Jacksonville Jaguars
Keep an eye on Maurice Jones-Drew's progress as he works his way back from Lisfranc surgery. He expects to be running full speed by June. ... Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne enter OTAs on equal footing. Neither is impressing as a passer. Could undrafted rookie Matt Scott enter the race by training camp? ... Will fifth-round pick Denard Robinson take on the "slash" role or stick primarily to running back?

Kansas City Chiefs
Chris Ault, the father of the pistol offense, once opined that Alex Smith would be an excellent pistol quarterback. Ault is now consulting with the Chiefs, making Smith an intriguing player to watch. ... Dwayne Bowe is predicting big things for himself and Jamaal Charles in Andy Reid's offense.

Miami Dolphins
Can Ryan Tannehill join the likes of Andrew Luck, Russell Wilson and Robert Griffin III with the increased firepower on offense? Mike Wallace is the biggest difference-maker among all the offseason additions in 2013. ... The Dolphins shoved Reggie Bush out the door to give Lamar Miller a shot at the starting running back job. Can he hold off Daniel Thomas and rookie Mike Gillislee? ... Is No. 3 overall pick Dion Jordan heading for a third-down role as a rookie?

New England Patriots
Rob Gronkowski's forearm is the key story to monitor. If antibiotics successfully eradicate his infection, he could be ready for training camp. If another surgery is required, his status could be in jeopardy for the season opener. ... The primary position battle is at wide receiver, where second-rounder Aaron Dobson and fourth-rounder Josh Boyce attempt to make headway against an underwhelming group of veterans such as Donald Jones, Michael Jenkins and Lavelle Hawkins. ... Keep an eye on Shane Vereen's increased role in the backfield.

New York Jets
Can Geno Smith carry his momentum from rookie minicamp over to OTAs, putting distance between himself and the veteran quarterbacks? ... Is Chris Ivory the clear-cut lead back, or will the Jets give Mike Goodson a chance to compete for the job? ... Santonio Holmes may sit out the entire offseason program after two surgeries to repair a Lisfranc fracture. ... Look for an infusion of speed on the defensive front seven.

Oakland Raiders
Will lightning strike twice for Matt Flynn? Fourth-rounder Tyler Wilson could start putting heat on Flynn if his next month is as strong as his performance in rookie minicamp. ... Will it be Rod Streater, Jacoby Ford or Juron Criner opposite Denarius Moore at wide receiver? ... First-rounder D.J. Hayden is in the spotlight as he returns from last year's fluke heart injury.

Pittsburgh Steelers
Can second-rounder Le'Veon Bell overtake Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer for the starting tailback job? ... If third-rounder Markus Wheaton isn't ready for a major role as a vertical threat in the Mike Wallace mold, the Steelers' passing attack could be stifled. ... Is tight end Heath Miller on track for Week 1 after undergoing surgery to repair his anterior cruciate ligament, posterior collaterial ligament and MCL in late December?

San Diego Chargers
Will the Chargers try first-rounder D.J. Fluker at left tackle or settle for an underwhelming King Dunlap/Max Starks combo? ... How will the depth chart shake out at wide receiver with promising young talents Vincent Brown and Keenan Allen behind Danario Alexander and Malcom Floyd? ... Will the Chargers sign Dwight Freeney to replace an injured Melvin Ingram?

Tennessee Titans
Is Kenny Britt's knee finally back to 100 percent? If so, the Titans figure to entertain offers for Nate Washington after picking up Justin Hunter in the draft's second round. ... Will Chris Johnson run with more decisiveness now that the Titans have overhauled the interior of the offensive line? ... Can Jake Locker settle down in the pocket and show enough accuracy to take advantage of his surrounding talent?

Follow Chris Wesseling on Twitter @ChrisWesseling.

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Fitzgerald has several other reasons to be excited beyond the quarterback and offensive line upgrades. Defenders won't be able to employ bracket coverage, as beat writers have noted that last year's first-rounder Michael Floyd looks "impressive" and "more confident" while taking more first-team reps than Andre Roberts. Arians is deploying Fitzgerald in the slot as well as outside, just as he did in helping Reggie Wayne to the second-highest yardage total of his career last season.

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By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League Editor

Chris Wesseling did a great job Wednesday breaking down the biggest organized team activities/minicamp storylines in the AFC. There's only so much we can learn from non-padded practices, but the teaching sessions do provide important clues for the upcoming season.

Here are the biggest NFC storylines to monitor over the next month.

Arizona CardinalsThe maturation of Michael Floyd is something to watch. Last year's first-round pick opened OTAs playing ahead of 2012 starter Andre Roberts. The Cardinals are quietly deep at wide receiver. ... Look for the Cardinals to line up Larry Fitzgerald in the slot and use him more creatively. ... Coach Bruce Arians doesn't like running back committees, so we'll be curious to see how he lines up Rashard Mendenhall, Ryan Williams, Stepfan Taylor and Andre Ellington during OTAs. Williams is the slight favorite here.

Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons are mostly set, but we'll be watching for a potential Matt Ryan contract extension before the season. ... It still wouldn't be that shocking if the Falcons added another defensive lineman after June 1, when much of Tyson Clabo's cap hit comes off the books. Richard Seymour?

Carolina Panthers
With DeAngelo Williams' contract settled, will Carolina line him up strictly as a backup behind Jonathan Stewart? ... The starting cornerback spot opposite Josh Norman and the starting strong safety jobs are both up for grabs. ... Ted Ginn, Domenik Hixon, David Gettis, Armanti Edwards and Joe Adams all will battle for playing time at wide receiver.

Chicago Bears
Former first-round pick Gabe Carimi's absence from OTAs provides coach Marc Trestman's first minor "distraction." It's unclear if Carimi will even make the team if he returns. He's definitely not a starter ... Once people realize that Brian Urlacher is not walking through that door, we can start focusing on the battle for the starting middle linebacker job between Jon Bostic and D.J. Williams. ... With Devin Hester banished to special teams, there's room for Earl Bennett to carve out a big role in the offense again.

Dallas Cowboys
Will Jason Garrett directly answer a question about who's calling the plays, or do we have to wait for training camp? ... We should get a better feel of where everyone will line up in Monte Kiffin's new 4-3 defense. The defensive tackle rotation is still a bit of a mystery. ... This is also the time of year when we'll hear too much hype about a No. 3 receiver candidate, but it is an important battle to watch.

Detroit Lions
The right tackle battle between Corey Hilliard and Jason Fox will mostly take place during camp. ... With Titus Young long gone, Ryan Broyles' recovery from a torn anterior cruciate ligament takes on more importance. He hopes to be ready for Week 1, but midseason is more realistic barring a setback. ... Detroit's big offseason objective this year is staying out of the news

Green Bay PackersThe new offensive line setup with Bryan Bulaga and Josh Sitton on the left side gets a test drive. ... We should have a genuine kicker battle between Mason Crosby and Giorgio Tavecchio. Kicker battle! ... We'll be waiting for reports on how the Packers' new running backs (Eddie Lacy and Johnathan Franklin) look and if the group as a whole can stay healthy. We also want to see if Randall Cobb remains a return man.

Minnesota Vikings
Erin Henderson is expected to start at middle linebacker, but the progress of rookie fourth-round pick Gerald Hodges during OTAs could decide whether the Vikings dive back into the linebacker market in free agency. (Although it probably won't be Brian Urlacher.) ... Cordarrelle Patterson might have the toughest road to a starting job of the three first-round Vickings picks. Watch to see if he struggles to pick up the pro playbook.

New Orleans Saints
The left tackle position is up for grabs, with Charles Brown getting the first crack at it. ... The team's new 3-4 defense will try out a lot of players in new positions, like Akiem Hicks moving to defensive end. The defensive depth chart is very much a work in progress. ... For the first time in a while, snaps are wide open at the wide receiver position after the starters. ... How will the Saints deploy first round pick Kenny Vaccaro into the secondary?

New York Giants
Victor Cruz's contract standoff should end sometime this summer. These things usually take until training camp, but don't be surprised if Cruz gets it done in time for mandatory minicamp in June. ... The depth charts at wide receiver and running back are wide open after the starters. Rueben Randle, Louis Murphy, and Jerrel Jernigan are among those battling at wideout. Andre Brown and Da'Rel Scott are battling behind David Wilson. Another veteran could be added, but we'd be surprised if it was an ex-Giant like Ahmad Bradshaw or Brandon Jacobs.

Philadelphia Eagles
All things Chip Kelly are fascinating at the moment because it's all so new. For now, the quarterback reps are being split closely between Michael Vick and Nick Foles. Will that continue through the mandatory minicamp? ... It's also worth watching how the completely rebuilt secondary lines up. I wouldn't assume much in terms of who is starting. Safety Kenny Phillips, for one, needs to show he's healthy. ... Bryce Brown could get tested for the backup running back job by Felix Jones.

San Francisco 49ers
Frank Gore's role is secure. We're more curious to see who is ahead between LaMichael James and Kendall Hunter. ... The various levels of health of Mario Manningham, Cornellius Carradine and Marcus Lattimore is worth watching. ... Last year's first round pick A.J. Jenkins will try to show he's matured after a disastrous offseason last year. ... Former British Olympian Lawrence Okoye will be someone to watch. If he can adapt to American football quickly, he could earn a spot on the team's 53-man roster.

Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks are so deep on the defensive line that we'll be watching to see who emerges. ... Will Christine Michael force his way into carries early? He's going to have to prove he can handle pass protection. ... Watch for reports on the chemistry of Russell Wilson and Percy Harvin. Also watch to see if Sidney Rice is finally 100 percent.

St. Louis Rams
All eyes are on the "skill positions." It's a mystery how the Rams will order their wide receiver depth chart after Tavon Austin, although Chris Givens and Brian Quick figure to be first in line. Austin Pettis and rookie Stedman Bailey also are vying for snaps ... At running back, Daryl Richardson, Isaiah Pead, and rookie Zac Stacy are all in the mix. Pead is trying to recover from a rough rookie season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Can rookie quarterback Mike Glennon show enough this offseason to get a legitimate chance to start later this year? It's not that crazy a notion. ... Tiquan Underwood, Kevin Ogletree and Steve Smith will battle for snaps on Tampa's undermanned receiver group. .. Who will step up as the backup running back behind Doug Martin? Right now the options are Brian Leonard, Mike James and Michael Smith. ... Will track star Jeff Demps show up?

Washington RedskinsWe could pretend that anything else other than Robert Griffin III's recovery from knee surgery matters in Washington , but that wouldn't be accurate. The reality is we probably won't know much until camp. ... Pass catchers Josh Morgan, Pierre Garcon, and Fred Davis are all trying to get healthy after injury-plagued years. ... Rookies David Amerson, Phillip Thomas, and Bacarri Rambo will try to earn quick playing in the secondary.

Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.

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By Marc Sessler

Around the League Writer

The quarterback battle in Cleveland is far from the NFL's sexiest signal-caller derby, but Brandon Weeden might want to keep an eye on Jason Campbell.

Longtime Browns writer Steve Doerschuk of The Canton Repository reported this week that Campbell showed up to organized team activities with "(Ben) Roethlisberger-like size."

"Campbell's clearly bigger than Brandon Weeden. He made (third-string passer) Thaddeus Lewis look like a shrimp," wrote Doerschuk, who added that the seven-year veteran passer "definitely had better sessions than Weeden" on Thursday. Campbell displayed a strong, deep ball on long strikes to receivers Travis Benjamin and Jordan Norwood.

Weeden -- at 6-foot-3, 220 pounds -- opened OTAs with the first team, but Campbell -- listed at 6-foot-5, 230 -- was signed as insurance with an opportunity to fight for the job. The Browns also inked Brian Hoyer on Thursday, which means Lewis (aka "shrimp") is on thin ice.

Weeden deserves a shot to show what he can do in a vertical passing offense more suited to his strengths than last year's clunky West Coast outfit. That said, when you've been searching for a franchise passer since Bill Clinton ruled the land, there should be no hesitation to go with the best guy available. It's a battle to keep an eye on.

Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.

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By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League Editor

Willis McGahee has been rumored to be on the roster bubble for the Denver Broncos all offseason, a rumbling that has only picked up since the team drafted Monte Ball in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Those rumors aren't going to change McGahee's offseason approach.

McGahee will not be a part of Monday's organized team activities, which is consistent with his approach in the past. His attendance at offseason voluntary events has always been spotty as he trains in Miami with other players from "The U." McGahee also hasn't been around a ton for the team's conditioning program.

"He's following the same routine he's done his whole career. He'll be there," agent Chafie Fields told Mike Klis of the Denver Post. "He's ready to compete. No messages.'"

We're far less concerned about McGahee's OTA attendance than his health. He's coming off a torn MCL and broken leg. If he can't prove himself healthy in training camp, it's possible the Broncos could move on from his $2.5 million salary.

Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.

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By Marc Sessler

Around the League Writer

Alex Smith can leave San Francisco, but he can't get away from the Pistol.

Adam Teicher of The Kansas City Star reported Monday that the former 49ers quarterback was spotted running a handful of plays out of the trendy formation during Chiefs workouts on Thursday.

The Chiefs recently hired former Nevada coach Chris Ault, the Pistol's creator, to help their offense run -- and their defense stop -- plays out of the formation.

The 49ers traded Smith away after Colin Kaepernick rose to prominence as a double-threat signal-caller who -- like Robert Griffin III -- killed defenses out of the Pistol. Smith is no Kaepernick when it comes to scampering free, but he's shown he can take off with the ball, and that might happen more than expected.

The Chiefs made a head-scratching move when they named Brad Childress their "Spread Game Analyst." The Ault hire is more of a coup and suggests that Andy Reid is willing to step outside his beloved West Coast Offense to help grow the attack. If Smith can make it work, running an offense the 49ers deemed him ill-suited for would make for a juicy subplot in 2013.

Still, too much talk of the Pistol focuses on the quarterback: The real winner here is Jamaal Charles.

Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.

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The Cleveland Plain Dealer suggests second-year WR Josh Gordon is headed for a "breakout season" in the Browns' new offense.
Reporter Terry Pluto observed at OTAs that the game comes "outrageously easy" to Gordon, who "glides down the field" and will be the featured target in Rob Chudzinski's vertical passing attack. Gordon was one of the league's most dangerous vertical receivers as a rookie. In our 2012 tape study, we observed Gordon to have movement skills not dissimilar from Andre Johnson.

Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer

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Updating a previous item, Knowshon Moreno (knee surgery) has not been medically cleared for Broncos OTAs.
With Willis McGahee a no-show and Moreno still hobbled, second-round pick Montee Ball will soak up first-team reps during the Organized Team Activities. Moreno is at Denver's Dove Valley facility, but he's not practicing. He's likely to be healed by training camp, but projects as a third-stringer this year.

Source: Lindsay Jones on Twitter

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Marshawn Lynch not present at Seattle Seahawks OTAs

By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League Editor

The Seattle Seahawks spent much of Monday answering criticism of their off-the-field problems. Coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider say they are taking the team's performance-enhancing drug use suspensions seriously.

Somewhat lost in the shuffle: The Seahawks' best offensive player from a year ago was missing.

Marshawn Lynch was the only healthy, unaccounted player at Seahawks organized team activities. No reason was given for his absence. Carroll indicated the absence will take a while, expressing some hope Lynch could return by the team's final OTA week on June 6.

NFL.com's Albert Breer reported Tuesday morning that Lynch has no problems with the Seahawks organization.

"This is voluntary," Carroll said, via The Seattle Times. "That's the rules and the guidelines. He came in 10 days ago and he's in very good shape. He's working an intense program in his area, and he is benefiting from it. We'd love to see everybody here."

The absence is a surprise because Lynch has attended Seahawks OTAs in the past. His absence will allow Robert Turbin to take first-team snaps, with newly signed second-round draft pick Christine Michael also in the mix.

We wouldn't be concerned whatsoever with Lynch's OTA absence. His upcoming DUI trial on June 21 is a matter of more importance to the Seahawks, though according to the Tacoma News Tribune, Lynch also has a court date Wednesday for a motion to suppress evidence and a motion to dismiss the case.

Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.

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Pete Carroll: Russell Wilson 'million miles ahead' now

By Marc Sessler

Around the League Writer

On Monday, we unveiled the first our top 10 quarterbacks age 25 or under, opening with Josh Freeman of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at No. 10. The rest of the list remains a mystery for now, but it might be a while before we get to Russell Wilson.

As the Seattle Seahawks gathered Monday for organized team activities, coach Pete Carroll said Wilson looks ready to eclipse what he did as a rookie.

"He threw a couple of balls today, things that we talked about over the offseason that he'd like to take a shot at, and he did it today just to see what would happen with full awareness of why he was doing it," Carroll told reporters Monday, via the Tacoma News Tribune.

Carroll continued: "We were talking about trying to throw the deep ball last year over guys' outside shoulder; we're just a million miles ahead of where we were. He's the kind of player that will affect other guys -- he affects everyone around him -- and hopefully that will help everyone play better and faster."

Carroll also pointed to Wilson's development at the line of scrimmage, where he used cadences to draw defenders offsides. "He didn't know what a hard count was last year at this time," Carroll said.

Look out, NFC West: He does now.

Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.

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New York Jets' QB duel might end before training camp

By Marc Sessler

Around the League Writer

As Jets fans brace for a quarterback competition that threatens to burn deep into August, New York's offensive coordinator is open to ending the drama much sooner.

Marty Mornhinweg told Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News he'd rather it be over by mid-June, after the Jets wrap organized team activities. As for the public perception that Mark Sanchez versus Geno Smith will remain a news topic until the end of days, he isn't buying it.

"We don't care what the prevailing thought is," Mornhinweg said. "We only care about our competition here. ... Common sense tells you that you hope it's quick, but this is going to be a full blown competition. Period."

Mornhinweg emphasized that if Smith or Sanchez clearly owns the day through OTAs, the Jets are prepared to name their starter before training camp.

"Oh, absolutely," Mornhinweg said. "Sure. Absolutely."

It won't be easy for the Jets to make a quick choice. No matter what the team says about "competition," New York desperately need a fresh start under center. This isn't Sanchez's job to lose, it's Smith's to win, but the rookie is unlikely to separate himself from a fifth-year veteran -- even this fifth-year veteran -- in a string of practices against his own green-clad teammates.

Marty is talking about a perfect world. Let the man dream.

Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.

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DeAndre Hopkins is running with the first-team offense in Texans OTAs.
The Texans aren't fooling around with their first-round pick, making him jump through hoops in the name of "competition." Matt Schaub has been impressed. "He’s such a dynamic player," Schaub said. "He’s just going to bring an added dimension to our offense." Andre Johnson agrees. "He’s picking up everything pretty well. ... I think day-by-day, he’ll continue to get better and better." The Texans have made it clear Hopkins will be starting opposite Johnson come Week 1.

Source: houstontexans.com

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Dolphins TE Michael Egnew was running with the starters in Tuesday's OTAs session.
Egnew was even briefly running ahead of Dustin Keller. Coach Joe Philbin said Egnew earned the reps "after a strong offseason." It's a good start for the 2012 third-rounder, but he still has lots of ground to make up coming off a lost rookie season. He's not a threat to Keller's No. 1 status.

Source: Miami Herald

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Mohamed Sanu (foot) is a full participant in Bengals OTAs.
"I feel real strong and explosive," Sanu said Tuesday. "It felt great to be back out there on the field doing the things I was doing last year: running routes full speed, stopping and going, run blocking, catching balls again." Sanu declared himself 100 percent healthy early last month. He should have a leg up on Marvin Jones for No. 2 duties opposite A.J. Green.

Source: Cincinnati Enquirer

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NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports Tony Romo (back surgery) "probably" won't be ready for minicamp.
Romo said earlier Tuesday he was optimistic he'd be ready for June's minicamp, but Rapoport reports the Cowboys are "fine bringing Romo back slowly." They have no reason to rush their franchise signal caller, who should be ready well before training camp.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter

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Lamar Miller was running with the first-team offense on the first day of Dolphins OTAs Tuesday.
As expected. Daniel Thomas is under the impression running back is an "open competition" for the Dolphins, but the team isn't. Miller is gunning for 1,500 yards and five yards per carry as a first-year starter. He's an intriguing RB2 in fantasy leagues.

Related: Daniel Thomas

Source: Miami Herald

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By James Walker | ESPN.com

DAVIE, Fla. -- The new-look Miami Dolphins held their first practice of organized team activities on Tuesday. The AFC East blog was there to take in all the action.

Here are some notes and observations:

• One very good sign for Miami is new cornerback Brent Grimes looked solid in practice. Grimes showed flashes of why he made the Pro Bowl two years ago by staying around the football and batting down several passes. Coming off season-ending Achilles surgery, Grimes looked healthy and fluid. He worked with the first-team defense most of the day along with veteran cornerback Richard Marshall, who is also coming off a back injury. “It looks like they’ve been moving well,” Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin said of his two corners. “They feel good physically and I’m excited about watching the tape and getting to look at it.” Philbin also described the cornerback competition as “real wide open.”

• Two additional players who I thought had a good practice today were tight end Dustin Keller and backup receiver Armon Binns. Keller, a free-agent pickup from the Jets, got open several times in team drills and had good separation over the middle. Binns made several nice catches, including one play where Binns ran past Grimes for a deep touchdown pass.

• Dolphins second-year quarterback Ryan Tannehill also was sharp on Tuesday. He had several big throws to Brian Hartline and Mike Wallace and also made routine plays underneath. It’s early, but I’m seeing a difference in the command of the offense and the speed of Tannehill’s progressions. He knows where to go with the football. At least two times in team drills, Tannehill’s reads weren’t open and he quickly threw the ball away. Last year he may have thrown an interception in that scenario. Keller was impressed with Tannehill’s first practice. “You would think a guy who used to play wide receiver, the best thing he does is run the ball,” Keller said. “But he puts the ball right on the money and he’s a good decision-maker, as well.”

• Dolphins starting left tackle Jonathan Martin is noticeably bigger. His arms are better defined and his shoulders are broader than last season. It's clear that Martin has been attacking the weight room. Strength was one of his biggest weaknesses last year. Martin was pushed around too often and needs to do a better job holding the point of attack while protecting Tannehill's blind side.

• As expected, Dolphins starting safety Reshad Jones showed up for practice. He initially considered not showing because he’s in the final year of his rookie contract and wants a long-term extension. Jones said he’s keeping the focus on football and plans to attend OTAs for the remainder of the week. Miami defensive tackle Randy Starks was a no-show, displeased after getting a franchise tag instead of a multi-year contract.

• With Starks out, the Dolphins moved Jared Odrick from defensive end to defensive tackle on the first team. Olivier Vernon worked with the first team at defensive end. All of this is subject to change on Starks' return. Miami first-round pick Dion Jordan will also push Odrick for the starting job at defensive end. “This is a time to experiment,” Philbin said of Odrick. “It’s a time to look at guys in different spots and different groups.”

• In a bit of a surprise, Hartline is getting a look at punt returner this spring. The job is vacant after last year’s punt returners -- Davone Bess and Reggie Bush -- are no longer with Miami. Hartline never returned a punt in four seasons in the NFL and will be competing with Marcus Thigpen. “Possibly, but in what situations, I couldn’t tell you,” Hartline said of potentially returning kicks. “But they [coaching staff] made a point to tell me to go and catch punts every day.”

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Ronnie Hillman has packed on 15 pounds of muscle after dipping near 180 last season.
Hillman was listed at 200, but apparently played nowhere close to that. OC Adam Gase believes Hillman "needs to keep that size." Gase has been impressed with Hillman in OTAs, particularly in pass protection. "The thing that he’s shown us the last three days is at least his aggressiveness and willingness to go attack the blitzer." Ticketed for a change-of-pace role, Hillman must make major strides as a pass-protector after struggling with blitz pickup as a rookie.

Source: Adam Caplan on Twitter

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Reggie Bush has been part of the Lions' rotation on punt returns in OTAs.
Shortly after Bush's signing, coach Jim Schwartz said Bush would be an option on returns. Bush was an explosive return man in New Orleans, but hasn't been featured on special teams since 2010. Bush has proven more durable in recent seasons, but the Lions would be risking his health by using him on punts. We doubt the plan comes to pass in the regular season.

Source: MLive.com

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Yahoo! Sports' Jason Cole reports Hakeem Nicks is unhappy with his contract, which is why he didn't show up to OTAs on Wednesday.
The Giants now have a double dose of financially unhappy receivers in Nicks and restricted free agent Victor Cruz. Coach Tom Coughlin was noticeably irritated that Nicks was a no-show for "voluntary" OTAs, saying that the receiver "should be here." With Cruz seeking $8-10 million annually on a long-term deal, Cole expects Nicks to seek "closer to the range" of $10 million per year and possibly more. Nicks is expected to show up to the facility sometime this week, and we really wouldn't expect a long-term contract worked out before training camp.

Source: Yahoo! Sports

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Bryan Broaddus of DallasCowboys.com "honestly believes" Dwayne Harris has made the "biggest jump" as a receiver, along with Dez Bryant.
Broaddus believes third-round WR Terrance Williams will need a "great" training camp to beat Harris out for No. 3 duties. Harris has reportedly made great improvements with his route running and his overall catching ability. He's also noted as the team's best blocking receiver. Harris could flirt with inconsistent WR3 value in the Cowboys' high-volume passing attack.
Related: Terrance Williams

Source: dallascowboys.com

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Stephen Hill has sat out the Jets' first two OTAs sessions with swelling in his surgically-repaired right knee.
Hill declared himself "100 percent" earlier this month, but that's not the case. Recovering from an operation to repair his LCL, Hill needs as many offseason reps as possible after being utterly lost for the majority of his rookie campaign. He's not off to a good start.

Source: ESPN New York

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New Chiefs QB Alex Smith has come away impressed with Dexter McCluster in OTAs.
"Seeing how fluid he is, going in and out of those roles has been impressive for me to watch," Smith said Wednesday. "It’s easy to talk about in the meeting room to say let’s put (a) receiver in and have him run routes and be natural. ... It’s another thing to see it live. He’s a special guy." McCluster's talent has always been seductive on the practice field, but has never really translated to games. It's unlikely Andy Reid will be able to accomplish what Todd Haley and Brian Daboll couldn't, and make McCluster's unique skills change games.
Related: Alex Smith

Source: Kansas City Star

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Brandon Gibson has been lining up in the slot in Dolphins OTAs.
Gibson was primarily an outside receiver in St. Louis, but the Dolphins are set outside the hashes with Mike Wallace and Brian Hartline. Stone-handed with zero after-the-catch ability, Gibson is not a good fit for the slot, but the coaching staff has to play him somewhere after GM Jeff Ireland foolishly handed out a three-year, $9.755 million deal. The Dolphins would have been better off letting the Jets sign Gibson and keeping Davone Bess through the final year of his contract.

Source: Miami Herald

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Mark Sanchez went 6-of-11 with three interceptions in Jets OTAs Wednesday.
One pass was picked off by second-year UDFA DT Damon "Big Snacks" Harrison. Geno Smith wasn't much better, going 4-of-10 with a pick of his own. Coach Rex Ryan called Sanchez's display "unacceptable." The Jets' quarterback competition is going to get worse before it gets better, assuming it ever does.
Related: Geno Smith

Source: Newark Star-Ledger

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By John Breech | CBSSports.com
May 23, 2013 5:58 pm ET

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Cleveland Browns running back Trent Richardson has seemingly been battling injuries since the first day that he put on a Browns uniform, and that battle continues. Richardson sat out the Browns OTA on Thursday with a pulled muscle in his shin, an injury that could keep him out until training camp.

"It's precautionary. We're holding him out," first-year Browns coach Rob Chudzinski said, via the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "We've got minicamp in a week and a half. He may miss that. I'm not sure. We'll take it day by day."

The Browns' mandatory minicamp runs June 4-6. If Richardson can't go then, he wouldn't get another opportunity to practice with the team until Cleveland begins training camp in July. The Browns also have another OTA session that runs May 28-31.

Expect the Browns to be cautious with Richardson, who suffered several injuries in 2012. The Browns' third overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft had a knee scope in August that caused him to miss the 2012 preseason. Richardson then broke several ribs during a Week 6 win against the Bengals before sitting out the Browns' season finale against Pittsburgh with a sprained ankle.

If Richardson can't go during minicamp, that will mean more reps for Cleveland's large stable of backs that includes: Montario Hardesty, Chris Ogbonnaya, Dion Lewis, Brandon Jackson and the recently added Miguel Maysonet.

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Panthers coach Ron Rivera observed at OTAs that Steve Smith "looks like he's 25 again."
The coaching staff isn't wild about Smith's penchant for diving for passes at Organized Team Activities, but they don't discourage competitiveness. As the clear-cut No. 1 pass-game option in new OC Mike Shula's offense, expect Smith to turn in a third straight 1,000-plus-yard season despite having turned 34 in May.


Source: Charlotte Observer

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Kirk Cousins is getting all of the Redskins' first-team OTA reps as Robert Griffin III rehabs his ACL and LCL tears.
"With the extra added reps that he’s getting," said Mike Shanahan, "you can see the progression in his game." It's a reminder that Cousins could inherit some fantasy value if Griffin encounters a setback or gets injured again. Cousins saw action in three games as a rookie, starting one. He completed 33-of-48 passes (68.8 percent) for 466 yards (9.7 YPA) and a 4:3 TD-to-INT ratio.


Source: Washington Times

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Redskins RB Roy Helu (Achilles', toe) is sitting out OTAs.
He's doing rehab work on the side. Helu is in danger of losing his roster spot just two years after being a fourth-round pick. As a rookie, he rushed for 100-plus yards in three consecutive games late in the season. Ever since, Helu has been unable to say healthy, and Alfred Morris has seized the starting job.


Source: Washington Post

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The Miami Herald "(keeps) hearing" rookie RB Mike Gillislee's name from Dolphins sources.
Per reporter Armando Salguero, there is great "internal excitement" about the No. 164 pick. A "longtime NFC scout" told the Herald earlier this month that Gillislee has the look of a career backup, but that's still more than can be said for Daniel Thomas. "Internal excitement" for Gillislee or not, Lamar Miller is the heavy favorite for feature-back duties in South Beach.


Source: Miami Herald

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NFL Films' Greg Cosell believes Patriots second-round pick Aaron Dobson is similar to Larry Fitzgerald in terms of size and hands.
Dobson didn't drop a single pass as a senior at Marshall. "This is going to sound crazy, but I thought that his size/hand combination, at times, reminded me of Larry Fitzgerald," Cosell said. "He’s not Larry Fitzgerald, obviously, but he’s a big kid who can move very well with really good hands. ... Overall an excellent combination of size, fluid movement and hands."


Source: Boston Globe

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Cardinals coach Bruce Arians calls Carson Palmer "as pretty a deep-ball thrower as I've ever seen."
It's safe to say Arians believes Palmer still has the arm strength to succeed in his vertically-minded passing attack. Thanks to an elbow injury, Palmer's drive and velocity were waning near the end of his time in Cincinnati, but his arm appeared much stronger in Oakland. He'll be asked to uncork no shortage of deep balls in the desert.


Source: Yahoo Sports

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According to the Washington Examiner, Robert Griffin III was putting more pressure on his surgically-repaired knee in Thursday's OTAs session than he was before going down in Washington's Wild Card loss to Seattle.
It's a cruel reminder of how limited RGIII was even before his knee finally gave out on FedEx Field's embarrassing turf. As reported Thursday, Griffin expects to start "explosive sprinting" in just a matter of weeks. It's not fair to compare RGIII's recovery to Adrian Peterson's, but thus far it's mirroring it.


Source: Washington Examiner

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Aaron Rodgers expects Jarrett Boykin to "get some opportunities this year" as the Packers' fourth receiver.
This assumes Boykin beats out rookies Charles Johnson and Kevin Dorsey. Rodgers sounds confident he will. "Behind (Randall Cobb, Jordy Nelson, and James Jones), I like what Jarrett Boykin brings," Rodgers said at OTAs. "He's a big, physical receiver who's going to get some opportunities." Packers "No. 4" receivers to open the year seemingly always pop on the fantasy radar in-season.


Source: Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel

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Saints WR Joe Morgan is trying to improve as a short-to-intermediate route runner.
The deep threat hauled in 10 catches for an eye-popping 379 yards last season. "You've seen the highlight plays, so that means all the other 31 teams have seen the highlight reel plays," Morgan said. "They're not going to keep letting me run up and down the field. Eventually guys are going to start playing softer coverage and play back me back a little bit." While stretching the field will remain Morgan's primary objective in 2013, it's possible his role will increase enough to garner WR4/5 consideration in fantasy leagues. He's a player to watch this summer.


Source: New Orleans Times-Picayune

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Coach Rob Chudzinski insists Trent Richardson's (leg) absence from OTAs — and likely minicamp — is "precautionary."
"We'll take it day-by-day," Chud said. We don't doubt that the Browns are being extra cautious with last year's No. 3 overall pick, but the problem is Richardson requiring so much caution to begin with. He's been banged up since the second his name was called in New York, and never really approached 100 percent health as a rookie. Richardson's upside remains sky high — there's a reason he was the No. 3 pick — but he must prove he can stay healthy as a sophomore. Constant nagging injuries won't cut it in the rugged AFC North.


Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer

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The Steelers plan to "supplement" their power-rushing attack with zone-blocking concepts in 2013.
It's one of the changes Ben Roethlisberger was hinting at. Per reporter Mark Kaboly, the Steelers are trying to take advantage of their "all-of-a-sudden big, nimble and young offensive line." The Steelers' rushing attack was ineffective under power plodders Jonathan Dwyer and Isaac Redman last season, wheezing to 3.7 yards per carry and 96.1 yards per game. Pittsburgh has made no secret of its efforts to get more athletic up front, but new feature runner Le'Veon Bell is a better fit for a power offense on paper. That being said, Bell sometimes struggled to get more than what was blocked in college, so perhaps the ZBS will be an asset an outside runs.


Source: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

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By Marc Sessler

Around the League Writer

The Kansas City Chiefs have toyed with the Pistol formation during this month's offseason team activities, suggesting just how different this offense might look from last year's dead-on-arrival attack.

Another trend coming out of recent practices: heavy use of two-tight end sets.

Adam Teicher of The Kansas City Star revealed Friday that free-agent signee Anthony Fasano and rookie Travis Kelce were frequent targets in the passing game. Veteran Tony Moeaki, coming off a knee scope, didn't take the field, but when healthy he gives the Chiefs another viable pass-catcher.

"I think the offense is very friendly for a tight end," Fasano said. "You can tell they're becoming a very valuable position in this offense. We ultimately determine (how many passes they catch) by how we play, if we make plays, exploit mismatches. The tight ends have a good opportunity in this offense."

That bodes well for quarterback Alex Smith, who flourished throwing the ball to Vernon Davis in San Francisco. It also speaks to a core need in Kansas City, where, outside of Dwayne Bowe, there isn't much to boast about at wide receiver.

It's May -- and I won't go all Michael Fabiano on you -- but Chiefs tight ends sounds like a fantasy option worth investigating.

Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.

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Taylor Price 49ers.com

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Colt McCoy has proven to be a valuable backup quarterback for San Francisco.

McCoy’s impressive accuracy was on display at Wednesday’s Organized Team Activity at 49ers headquarters. While much of the media attention was on wide receivers looking to fill the vacancy left from Michael Crabtree’s Achilles injury, the 49ers quarterbacks had a strong showing during the two-hour session.

Colin Kaepernick looked sharp in Jim Harbaugh’s eyes, continuing his command of the 49ers offense and throwing the ball precisely on deep and intermediate routes.

The 49ers coach also raved about McCoy, the fourth-year pro acquired by San Francisco in a pre-draft trade with the Cleveland Browns.

“Colt was very sharp as well, probably his best day,” Harbaugh said. “And him, like everybody on the team right now, they’re building the knowledge for the system and getting better and better at it each day.

“That’s job number one. The second thing is you’re building that callus for playing football. And so far, so good. It’s going well.”

McCoy especially showed his understanding of a new offensive system during a red zone 7-on-7 period. The only touchdown of the day came from McCoy, who lofted a perfectly thrown 20-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Chad Hall who slipped by Chris Culliver to make a back-shoulder catch in the back right corner of the end zone.

“We ran a go route and Colt put up a catchable ball and I went up and made a play,” Hall said.

The third-year wideout also fielded punts during practice along with running back LaMichael James. Hall feels like special teams is his best way to impact the 49ers immediately.

“That’s something I’ve done since I was little,” Hall said. “I feel so comfortable back there. Honestly, I think it’s the best thing I do – punt return and make people miss back there. Hopefully I get an opportunity to win that spot this year.”

Hall is focused on winning the punt return duties, but also wants to help chip in for the loss of Crabtree.

“He’s such a big presence,” Hall said of Crabtree, the team’s leading receiver in 2012. “Not only in meetings but on the field. It’s so tough. He won’t be replaced, people will try to step up and do as well as they can.

“He was one of the best receivers in the league right now. He proved it last year. It’s just very unfortunate and hopefully his recovery will be short.”

OTA Notes from Wednesday

-

Anthony Dixon, who suggested being a dual-threat in the backfield as a running back and blocker, continued working at fullback behind starter Bruce Miller.

-Undrafted rookie defensive lineman Lawrence Okoye continues to refine his technique during individual drills. The former British Olympian looks much more natural going through fundamental drills and is learning personally from four-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Justin Smith.

-Justin Smith did not practice, but the team is pleased with how the defensive tackle is recovering from offseason triceps surgery. Harbaugh noted that Smith is putting up 350 pounds in the bench press. “I’d say he’s progressing well,” the 49ers coach said.

-Will Tukuafu and Demarcus Dobbs continued their two-way roles. Dobbs worked with the offensive side of the ball as a tight end midway through practice.

-Kyle Williams and Kendall Hunter were running on a limited basis at practice but didn’t join 7-on-7 or team periods. Both players showed improvement in their respective recoveries. Hunter is six months removed from an Achilles tear and was limited to conditioning work on an adjacent practice field. Williams ran short routes to open practice and then joined Hunter in conditioning work.

-Frank Gore had the best practice style of the day in pink breast cancer awareness cleats.

-California head coach Sonny Dykes came out to watch practice. Dykes coached fourth-round pick Quinton Patton at Louisiana Tech and came over to check on his former play-maker. Patton caught the best deep ball of the day from McCoy during individual period.

-Craig Dahl and Donte Whitner opened up as the first-team safeties. First-round draft pick Eric Reid joined Trenton Robinson with the second-team unit. Also, Nnamdi Asomugha and Carlos Rogers were the first-team cornerbacks. Tarell Brown was not in attendance at the voluntary workout.

-Dan Skuta only played as an outside linebacker.

-Andy Lee and Brian Jennings were back for the OTA session. Both raved about their working relationship with new kicker Phil Dawson.

-Ricardo Lockette made a nice comeback reception in 7-on-7 work on a throw from McCoy. Culliver had the coverage.

-During a red zone 7-on-7 period, Dahl almost intercepted Kaepernick, but dropped the takeaway after bobbling the ball several times. The free agent addition quickly read Kaepernick’s intended post pattern to tight end Cameron Morrah, but didn’t haul in the takeaway.

-Rookie tight end Vance McDonald made a tough high-point catch on a deep crossing route during the final team period. Scott Tolzien placed a perfect throw for the second-round pick to make a deep reception.

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Chicago Bears receiver Alshon Jeffery

Bowen snippet: "As a rookie, the wideout struggled at times to create separation at the top of the route stem (break point) versus tight coverage. But when I saw Jeffery this spring in the Bears' veteran minicamp here in Chicago, he looked much more polished when sinking his hips and working back to the football."

Seifert comment: Jeffery will get every opportunity to break out this season given the Bears' current depth at the position. They really only have two other established receivers alongside him in Brandon Marshall and Earl Bennett. Tight end Martellus Bennett and running back Matt Forte should get plenty of looks as well.

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The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Sam Bradford and Jared Cook are "clicking" at OTAs.
With the additions of Zac Stacy, Tavon Austin, and Stedman Bailey via the draft and all of the hype surrounding second-year WR Brian Quick, Cook seems to have become the forgotten man in St. Louis after signing a five-year, $35.11 million contract. Cook is expected to be a "huge part" of the offense, and it wouldn't surprise us if he led the team in receiving yards and touchdowns.

Source: St Louis Post-Dispatch

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The Eagles are working with second-round TE Zach Ertz on his blocking.
"[Receiving] is his strength," said TEs coach Ted Williams. "But he is big enough, he’s strong enough, he’s willing and we’ve got to be able to get him to be an in-line tight end. We have to produce that skill in him because you can’t just be a receiver in this offense and you just can’t be a blocker in this offense, you’ve got to be able to do both." Prior to the draft, one scout characterized Ertz as a receiver because his blocking was so poor. It shouldn't keep him off the field as a rookie.

Source: Philly Mag: Birds 24/7

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Chiefs head coach Andy Reid praised rookie TE Travis Kelce, comparing him to former Giants, Saints and Panthers TE Jeremy Shockey in terms of style of play and potential impact.
Reid plans to make opposing defenses honor Kelce's speed, having him line up in a variety of spots including split out wide. The Chiefs have revealed plenty of two-tight end formations during their offseason program with Kelce and Anthony Fasano both getting looks as receivers. While we're excited for Kelce's long-term prospects, we doubt he makes much of a fantasy impact in 2013.

Source: Kansas City Star

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The Broncos' website projects rookie Montee Ball as the top fantasy option in Denver's 2013 backfield.
It comes with the caveat that Ball "learns the offense fast enough," which of course will be critical along with his ability to show pass-protection adequacy. The Broncos are still keeping Willis McGahee and Knowshon Moreno on the 90-man offseason roster for the time being. We're supporting Ball as Denver's Week 1 lead back, but would feel more confident if McGahee were released.

Source: denverbroncos.com

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Rams second-year RB Isaiah Pead attributed his slow first season to falling behind due to the NFL rule that prevents rookies from attending offseason workouts when their colleges are on the quarter system.
"The crazy thing was, I wasn’t even in school at the time," said Pead, who admitted his rookie season was "miserable" because he was so far behind. "I was just sitting around. I had a playbook, but I couldn’t explain it to myself. I missed all but a week of (offseason practices) last year, so this year, I just feel like I’m that much farther along." In a "wide open" camp battle, Pead will battle Daryl Richardson and rookie Zac Stacy for the starting tailback job.

Source: St Louis Post-Dispatch

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Rams second-year WR Brian Quick admits he struggled with understanding St. Louis' playbook as a rookie.
"This offense is a lot more complicated than anything I’ve run before," he said. "... By the second half of last season, though, I felt a lot more comfortable and now, going into the second year, I really feel like I’m ready to show people what I can do." Coach Jeff Fisher anticipates Quick playing a "much bigger role" in the 2013 offense. Last year's No. 33 overall pick is a breakout candidate.

Source: St Louis Post-Dispatch

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Danny Amendola was reportedly "often the first receiver through drills" and looked "as quick as advertised" during Patriots OTAs.
Beat writers were impressed with Amendola during his initial Patriots on-field workouts, which isn't surprising. Amendola's physical skills are an outstanding fit for New England's offense, and he won't struggle for production as long as he stays healthy. In 2013 fantasy drafts, he should be viewed as a high-upside WR2 -- with an even higher ceiling if Rob Gronkowski misses time.

Source: ESPN Boston

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Isaiah Pead in 'wide open' St. Louis Rams RB battle

By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League Editor

The St. Louis Rams aren't counting on just one player to replace franchise stalwart Steven Jackson, now on the Atlanta Falcons. A cavalcade of young running backs will vie to fill the gap.

By virtue of draft pedigree, last year's second-round pick Isaiah Pead should be at the top of the heap. But he's mostly been forgotten after a quiet rookie season that included only 10 rushing attempts. Pead quickly was passed last year by seventh-round pick Daryl Richardson out of Abilene Christian.

"Last year obviously didn't go the way I wanted, but I survived it and I'm ready to move forward," Pead told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

The newspaper calls the running back battle "wide open" with Pead and Richardson competing with rookie Zac Stacy and second-year pro Terrance Ganaway. In reality, Pead has ground to make up after a season he previously called "miserable." He struggled to pick up the playbook after missing last year's organized team activities because of the NFL's rule forbidding players from joining NFL teams before the school year is completed.

"We're all competitors and we're all looking to be No. 1," Pead said. "But it's not like we're enemies. We're truly a unit, trying to do everything we can to make sure that we're all getting better, as individuals and as a group."

Pead is the biggest X-factor of the group. He could be an explosive back on passing downs or a lost early draft pick. The Rams showed faith in their young players by letting Jackson go, but it was Richardson, not Pead, who showed he could adapt to NFL life last season.

Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.

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No. 8 pick WR Tavon Austin took some snaps at running back in Rams OTAs Friday.
It's not a surprise for a player who rushed for 643 yards last season, but is further confirmation that the Rams are going to use Austin all over the formation. The Rams are hoping they've found their own version of Percy Harvin and Randall Cobb.


Source: St Louis Post-Dispatch

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Cleat Spike said:

Tavon Austin said on the Jim Rome show that he expects the Rams to use him the same way Dana Holgorsen used him at WVU: catching passes, returning kicks and occasionally take handoffs. On Friday, Austin took a few handoffs midway through practice. Expectedly, Austin broke through traffic and ran away from defenders. His new quarterback, Sam Bradford liked what he saw.

Hes fast, Bradford said. Hes quick. Hes smart. He gets open. Hes done a great job so far. Weve thrown a lot at him."

Rams corner Cortland Finnegan said that the rookie he's been most impressed with is Stedman Bailey. LB James Laurinaitis said during an interview on the NFL Network that he is also impressed with Bailey, saying that he has caught everything thrown his way and is really good with his routes.

Source: @WVUPros: Notes on #WVUPros in the #NFL after the first full week of OTA's: Smith, Austin, Bailey, White and more- http://t.co/asQdsT18Xy #WVUPros

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DeMarco Murray's injury issues continue for Cowboys

By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League Editor

The Dallas Cowboys are one of the teams that should benefit most in 2013 from the return of injured players, including starting running back DeMarco Murray. Then again, Murray actually has to return.

ESPNDallas.com reported Tuesday that the third-year pro will miss at least part of organized team activities this week with a hamstring injury. Last week, Cowboys coach Jason Garrett called the injury "minor." (Murray also sat out those sessions.)

We tend to avoid reporting on muscle pulls in May. But Murray has lost the benefit of the doubt after missing nine total games and countless practices during the last few years. Even when he was healthy enough to suit up, Murray often was missing practices and battling injuries.

Durability is a skill at running back. Murray hasn't shown he possesses that skill, and his style of running doesn't exactly help his chances. The Cowboys have very little depth behind Murray, so they have to be at least somewhat concerned when he can't even get on to the field during non-padded practice season.

Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.

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Arian Foster carted off practice field with calf strain

By Dan Hanzus

Around the League Writer

The last thing Houston Texans fans want to see is "Arian Foster" and "carted off the field" in the same sentence.

Unfortunately, that's what happened Tuesday after the star running back suffered a calf injury during organized team activities.

Texans coach Gary Kubiak told reporters that Foster suffered a strained calf, according to multiple reports.

The Houston Chronicle reported that Foster had ice on the calf as he was carted off the field. It's unclear at this time how much time Foster will miss with the injury, but expect the Texans to use extreme caution at this stage.

Foster has been the engine of the Texans' offense for three years running. He led the league with 351 carries last year, compiling 1,424 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns.

Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @DanHanzus.

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The Contra Costa Times continues to be impressed with rookie Raiders QB Tyler Wilson, stating he "is doing something impressive that makes you think he's not an ordinary rookie."
The consensus among Raiders beat writers is that Wilson has looked superior to Matt Flynn so far in OTAs, but we caution not to look too much into non-contact drills. Wilson still has a long way to go before putting real pressure on Flynn for the starting job.


Source: Steve Corkran on Twitter

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Michael Vick is once again working with the first team at the outset of Eagles OTAs Tuesday.
Vick has been first up with the starters throughout the spring. Nick Foles then rotates in and gets some reps with the ones and Matt Barkley cleans up the scraps. Signs still point to Vick being the Eagles' Week 1 starter after he was issued a vote of confidence in the form of a $3.5M signing bonus in February, but he'll have to earn it. Coach Chip Kelly has been clear that the quarterback spot is open for competition. "Why do we need a starting quarterback in May," Kelly asked the media Tuesday.
Related: Matt Barkley, Nick Foles

Source: Jordan Raanan on Twitter

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Coach Chip Kelly said Brent Celek's strength is his blocking.
Kelly isn't impressed by the 280 catches, 3,473 yards and 20 touchdowns Celek has compiled in his six-year Eagles career. "We're trying to teach him to be a composite receiver — to read coverages, to read intermediate-level routes and to do things that he hasn’t done a lot of," Kelly said. With Zach Ertz and James Casey in town, Celek isn't even on the TE2 radar this season.


Source: Philly Mag: Birds 24/7

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Chris Givens has added more muscle this offseason.
Givens came into the league at just 5'11/198. Adding some size while retaining his special vertical speed will help, but the concern this year is opportunity. Givens will be behind Tavon Austin, Jared Cook and Brian Quick in a suddenly fast Rams' offense.


Source: stlouisrams.com

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Miles Austin is reportedly moving around better at OTAs than he has in the past.
Over the last two seasons, Austin has averaged just 4.1 catches for 58.5 yards per game thanks in part to hamstring woes. He's spent the offseason trying to strengthen his upper-leg muscles. Regardless, even a healthy Austin will be just third on the pass-catching totem pole in Dallas. He's a WR3/4 in fantasy circles.


Source: Bryan Broaddus on Twitter

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Bryan Broaddus of the Cowboys' official site notes that third-round WR Terrance Williams has a "long way to go."
Williams' first month in the NFL has been rocky. He didn't impress at the rookie camp thanks to drops and apparently hasn't shown much progress during OTAs. Williams is not a lock to beat out Dwayne Harris for the No. 3 wideout gig.

Related: Dwayne Harris


Source: Bryan Broaddus on Twitter

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Wide receivers coach Edgar Bennett said 2012 was "just a starting point" for James Jones.
Jones set career-highs last season in catches (64), yards (784) and led the league in receiving touchdowns (14). Now Greg Jennings is gone and the Packers are extremely thin on the outside. "I thought he had a phenomenal year last year, and this year he's going to be even better than what he was last year," Bennett said. "I think he understands that and I think knows what he's capable of doing." Jones' touchdown rate will naturally regress, but he'll see a significant bump on last year's meager 98 targets.


Source: Green Bay Press-Gazette

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Faust said:

Chris Givens has added more muscle this offseason.
Givens came into the league at just 5'11/198. Adding some size while retaining his special vertical speed will help, but the concern this year is opportunity. Givens will be behind Tavon Austin, Jared Cook and Brian Quick in a suddenly fast Rams' offense.


Source: stlouisrams.com

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Mr Non Sequitur said:

Every team is going to the playoffs, every player yet to rack 1,000 yards is due for a breakout season, past their primers throw the prettiest balls coaches have ever seen, Right Tackles can shift t Left Tackle no problem, Guys who have never caught 50 balls are bonafide starting WR2s on their teams, every rookie skill position player is the second coming of someone better ad in the Hall of Fame, the off seasonnice thread

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Faust said:

Mr Non Sequitur said:

Every team is going to the playoffs, every player yet to rack 1,000 yards is due for a breakout season, past their primers throw the prettiest balls coaches have ever seen, Right Tackles can shift t Left Tackle no problem, Guys who have never caught 50 balls are bonafide starting WR2s on their teams, every rookie skill position player is the second coming of someone better ad in the Hall of Fame, the off seasonnice thread

Click to expand...

I think that we all understand this. Thanks for the valuable contribution to this thread.

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Mr Non Sequitur said:

get bent.

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Faust said:

Mr Non Sequitur said:

Every team is going to the playoffs, every player yet to rack 1,000 yards is due for a breakout season, past their primers throw the prettiest balls coaches have ever seen, Right Tackles can shift t Left Tackle no problem, Guys who have never caught 50 balls are bonafide starting WR2s on their teams, every rookie skill position player is the second coming of someone better ad in the Hall of Fame, the off seasonnice thread

Click to expand...

I think that we all understand this. Thanks for the valuable contribution to this thread.

Click to expand...

Mr Non Sequitur said:

Faust said:

Mr Non Sequitur said:

Every team is going to the playoffs, every player yet to rack 1,000 yards is due for a breakout season, past their primers throw the prettiest balls coaches have ever seen, Right Tackles can shift t Left Tackle no problem, Guys who have never caught 50 balls are bonafide starting WR2s on their teams, every rookie skill position player is the second coming of someone better ad in the Hall of Fame, the off seasonnice thread

Click to expand...

I think that we all understand this. Thanks for the valuable contribution to this thread.

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I think you took it the wrong way. I just have heard similar tales every off season and then folks use it as a backbone to try and prove their opinion is right. "Coach Arians says Palmer throws the best ball" and that is just one of hundreds of little tidbits that local beat writers and those that get paid a lot of money to write Nationally on line have to keep cranking out weekly even in the off season. You can thank me by liking the OP like someone else did already. I'm a fan of yours, no need to get bent.

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Mr Non Sequitur said:

Faust said:

Mr Non Sequitur said:

Every team is going to the playoffs, every player yet to rack 1,000 yards is due for a breakout season, past their primers throw the prettiest balls coaches have ever seen, Right Tackles can shift t Left Tackle no problem, Guys who have never caught 50 balls are bonafide starting WR2s on their teams, every rookie skill position player is the second coming of someone better ad in the Hall of Fame, the off season

nice thread

Click to expand...

I think that we all understand this. Thanks for the valuable contribution to this thread.

Click to expand...

I think you took it the wrong way. I just have heard similar tales every off season and then folks use it as a backbone to try and prove their opinion is right. "Coach Arians says Palmer throws the best ball" and that is just one of hundreds of little tidbits that local beat writers and those that get paid a lot of money to write Nationally on line have to keep cranking out weekly even in the off season.

You can thank me by liking the OP like someone else did already. I'm a fan of yours, no need to get bent.

Click to expand...

By Chris Wesseling

Around the League Writer

It didn't take long for Anquan Boldin to show his new teammates and coaches that he can fill the void left by Michael Crabtree's Achilles tendon injury last week.

The veteran receiver stole the show during the San Francisco 49ers' Tuesday practice, hauling in all 10 passes thrown in his direction. Boldin was the best offensive player on the field "by far," according to the Santa Rosa Press Democrat.

We don't put much stock in a single offseason practice, but it's encouraging that Boldin already is emerging as quarterback Colin Kaepernick's go-to target.

"He's really picked up the system fast, and is making plays and big catches in tight areas," 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh said, via the San Jose Mercury News. "You saw what we've been seeing for a couple weeks now."

Having lost his separation speed, Boldin is eager to gain Kaepernick's trust in those tight areas referenced by Harbaugh.

"He's a special talent. He can make any throw on the field," Boldin said. "I want Kaep to be comfortable. Even if it doesn't look like I'm open, give me a chance."

Kaepernick leaned on Crabtree for nearly 10 targets per game in his 10 starts last season. Boldin already is making his case to hold off tight end Vernon Davis for that go-to role this year.

Follow Chris Wesseling on Twitter @ChrisWesseling.

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By Chris Wesseling

Around the League Writer

The Jacksonville Jaguars haven't had a 1,000-yard wide receiver since Jimmy Smith's final season in 2005. In fact, Smith and Keenan McCardell are the only players in franchise history to accomplish the feat.

Cecil Shorts knows all too well, coming up 21 yards shy of 1,000 yards in his first season as a starter.

"It bothers me. It doesn't sit well," Shorts said, via Jaguars.com. "I still feel like I have something to prove."

To be fair, Shorts didn't play in more than 50 percent of the snaps in any game until Week 7. He also missed two late-season contests with concussions. Despite the sporadic playing time and the subpar passing of Blaine Gabbert and Chad Henne, Shorts managed to finish 21st in yards among NFL wide receivers.

Showing a penchant for big plays due to his after-catch ability, Shorts' 1.47 yards per snap exceeded that of Andre Johnson, A.J. Green, Dez Bryant and Julio Jones. Gabbert and Henne combined for a 74.7 passer rating last season. On throws in Shorts' direction, that figure climbed to 94.5, good for 15th in the league according to Pro Football Focus.

With Justin Blackmon suspended four games, the Jaguars will lean even more heavily on Shorts this coming season. It's a good thing he's "raising his game steadily and looking smoother" for a second consecutive offseason. As long as he stays healthy, Shorts is a good bet to join Smith and McCardell in Jacksonville's exclusive club.

Follow Chris Wesseling on Twitter @ChrisWesseling.

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Stevie Johnson (back) was a full participant in Bills OTAs Tuesday.
Johnson returned to practice last week, but was limited to individual drills. Per BuffaloBills.com, Johnson "(wasn't) shy about turning and contorting his body to adjust to passes." His back injury is a dead issue.

Source: buffalobills.com

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Frank Gore is sitting out 49ers OTAs with a minor injury.
Coach Jim Harbaugh declined to say what was ailing his No. 1 back, offering up only that he's "working through a little something." Gore has taken a tremendous amount of punishment throughout his career, but hasn't missed a game since Harbaugh took over as coach in 2011. Offseason absences are not a concern for the eight-year veteran.

Source: Can Inman on Twitter

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The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel considers 2013 a "make-or-break" year for backup Packers QB Graham Harrell.
Harrell — a 2009 undrafted free agent who's attempted just four passes in three years with the Pack — is expected to be pushed by 2012 seventh-rounder B.J. Coleman. Neither player is a good option behind Aaron Rodgers. The Packers would be in major trouble were Rodgers to go down. Rodgers has missed just two games in five years since replacing Brett Favre.

Related: B.J. Coleman

Source: Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel

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According to DallasCowboys.com, RB Phillip Tanner has "physically remade his body."
Per reporter Bryan Broaddus, Tanner "looks lighter and quicker with the ball in his hands," and has made major strides as a pass catcher. Broaddus was initially skeptical that Tanner would make the team after being phased out down the stretch last season, but now considers him a viable candidate for No. 3 duties behind DeMarco Murray and Joseph Randle. Tanner is competing with Lance Dunbar.

Source: dallascowboys.com

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Anquan Boldin has stood out as the 49ers quarterbacks' primary target during OTAs.
Boldin reportedly didn't drop a pass in today's session, which was open to the media. He's also been the top target for all four 49er QBs ahead of Vernon Davis. Coach Jim Harbaugh said he's "picked up the system fast and making plays, big catches in tight areas." He also reiterated Boldin will be the starting "Z" receiver, while the rest of the WRs will compete to play the "X" position opposite of him.

Source: Sacramento Bee

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DeMarco Murray is expected to return to Cowboys OTAs on Wednesday.
Murray hasn't practiced with the team yet due to a "minor" hamstring tweak, but will do "some stuff" with the team on Wednesday. Minor injuries don't usually warrant much attention at this time of year, but it's concerning for a player with Murray's history to be sidelined before stepping onto the practice field. He vows to play all 16 games this year. We'll believe it when we see it.

Source: DallasCowboys.com

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By Mike Sando | ESPN.com

RENTON, Wash. -- Five quick thoughts after watching the Seattle Seahawks' practice session Tuesday from team headquarters:

• Miller key: Backup tight end Anthony McCoy was not a key player for the Seahawks. However, his recent injury focuses attention on depth at the position. Losing starter Zach Miller would create a crisis at the position. Miller and McCoy both played all 16 games last season. Miller played 83.8 percent of the snaps. McCoy played 45.5 percent. Sean McGrath and rookie Luke Willson are in the mix. Willson, impressive in the team's rookie camp, dropped a couple of passes Tuesday. That's no big deal on May 28, but it heightened in my mind the depth situation at the position.

• Quinn's role: Backup quarterback Brady Quinn has not appeared to throw the ball very well in the two practice sessions open to reporters. I'll be interested to see whether he throws with greater command and accuracy during training camp.

• Lots of talking: There's ample energy and communication in the Seattle secondary. Free safety Earl Thomas and cornerback Richard Sherman caught my attention with their frequent encouraging words for teammates, including for newcomer Antoine Winfield. The Seahawks have a great thing going in their secondary and it's obvious even during May practices.

• Harvin moment: The deep pass Russell Wilson rocketed to Percy Harvin down the right sideline will stand in my mind as the first "wow" moment I've witnessed involving two of the Seahawks' most important players. Harvin worked some against Winfield, his former teammate, as starters competed against starters for stretches.

• Lynch sighting: Running back Marshawn Lynch participated in practice, a change from last week. I'm not reading a great deal into Lynch's decision to attend this week after missing previous sessions. He seems to keep his own schedule and these practices are, by definition, voluntary. However, he's one of the more important players on the team, and the Seahawks want him out there.

That's it from here. I'm also booked for the Rams' organized team activities in June.

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Coach Dennis Allen singled out sixth-round RB Latavius Murray as a player that has stood out at OTAs.
Murray is battling Rashad Jennings to be Darren McFadden's backup. "Probably the thing that's been most impressive is that he's picked up everything offensively from a schematic standpoint, assignment wise," Allen said. "He's done a great job. He's done a nice job in pass protection. That's one of the things you see with young backs that they struggle with at times." It's a situation for handcuffers to watch as McFadden has never played more than 13 games in a season.

Related: Rashad Jennings

Source: Contra Costa Times

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Coach Dennis Allen reiterated that the starting quarterback job is Matt Flynn's to lose.
Flynn is getting the majority of reps with the starters during OTAs. "Matt's our starting quarterback as we go forward right now," Allen said, "and until the competition dictates otherwise, that's where we're going." Flynn will have to faceplant in order to lose the job to fourth-round rookie Tyler Wilson. We suspect that faceplant won't come until sometime during the season.

Related: Terrelle Pryor, Tyler Wilson

Source: Contra Costa Times

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Kendall Hunter (Achilles') has been limited to individual drills at OTAs.
Hunter tore his left Achilles' tendon during Week 12 last season. His goal is to be ready for training camp and serve as Frank Gore's backup come Opening Day, but that's far from a sure thing. Hunter will have to prove he's regained his burst and agility to stay ahead of LaMichael James.

Source: Sacramento Bee

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Larry Fitzgerald said sixth-round WR Ryan Swope has missed practice time due to lingering concussion issues.
Anytime we hear the word "concussion" associated with Swope, it's going to raise a red flag. He reportedly had four of them while at Texas A&M, causing his draft stock to fall. It's a major concern that Swope is having lingering issues five months after the college season ended.

Source: ESPN.com

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Bengals TE Orson Charles is getting some reps at fullback during OTAs.

Charles is trying to salvage his roster spot with versatility. The 2012 fourth-round pick won't be any higher than third on tight end depth chart with Jermaine Gresham and Tyler Eifert in town.



Source: bengals.com

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Jerome Simpson says a new bed is helping with his troublesome back.
Simpson has invested in a Tempurpedic mattress with a pillow top. "It's helped stabilize my back and keep me in good posture," he said. Simpson insists that injuries are the reason he could gain any separation last season en route to an embarrassing 26/274/0 campaign. The Vikings would be best-served by getting Cordarrelle Patterson ready to start opposite Greg Jennings right away.


Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune

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ESPN New York confirms that Andre Brown is expected to be the Giants' goal-line back.
Brown seized the role last year, scoring eight touchdowns in just 10 games. Seven of those scores came in goal-to-go situations. Brown will serve as a handcuff to David Wilson, and will also give touchdown-seeking fantasy owners standalone value.


Source: ESPN New York

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Faust said:

Rotoworld:

According to DallasCowboys.com, RB Phillip Tanner has "physically remade his body."

Per reporter Bryan Broaddus, Tanner "looks lighter and quicker with the ball in his hands," and has made major strides as a pass catcher. Broaddus was initially skeptical that Tanner would make the team after being phased out down the stretch last season, but now considers him a viable candidate for No. 3 duties behind DeMarco Murray and Joseph Randle. Tanner is competing with Lance Dunbar.

Source: dallascowboys.com

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>

DeMarco Murray is expected to return to Cowboys OTAs on Wednesday.

Murray hasn't practiced with the team yet due to a "minor" hamstring tweak, but will do "some stuff" with the team on Wednesday. Minor injuries don't usually warrant much attention at this time of year, but it's concerning for a player with Murray's history to be sidelined before stepping onto the practice field. He vows to play all 16 games this year. We'll believe it when we see it.

Source: DallasCowboys.com

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