Independent NFL News

Irvin leads class of six into the Hall of Fame

2007-04-10T07:37:00.001-07:00

After passing him over in his first year of eligibility, the Hall of Fame committee has decided to induct former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin. The boisterous wideout had some rather dubious off-field incidents, and his career numbers were somewhat pedestrian. However, most NFL insiders agreed that Irvin's playoff exploits and a knack for making big plays made him worthy of induction.

Irvin leads class of six into the Hall of Fame

Bills' Thomas earns well-deserved place in Canton

2007-04-10T07:37:00.000-07:00

The National Football League announced its newest inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday. Among them was former Buffalo Bills great Thurman Thomas, who was voted into Canton in just his second year of Hall eligibility.

Bills' Thomas earns well-deserved place in Canton

Random Raiders rant: Dissecting the pass catchers

2007-04-09T18:26:00.000-07:00

With free agency right around the corner and the NFL draft just over two months away, let's take a quick, unprompted look at the Raiders' troubled area.

Random Raiders rant: Dissecting the pass catchers

Shock: Ral not called up for Spain

2007-04-08T20:37:00.002-07:00

Spanish team coach Luis Aragons has decided to leave Real Madrid star Ral Gonzlez out of the squad for the upcoming match against Sweden for the Euro Cup 2008 Qualifiers. But he did call two surprise players: Valencias winger Miguel ngel Angulo and Depor full back Joan Capdevila.

Shock: Ral not called up for Spain

Jones' the unsung hero of Bears' 'Super' run

2007-04-08T20:37:00.001-07:00

For a guy who once broke his hand in a telephone mishap, Thomas Jones has had no trouble "answering the call" for the Bears these days. Randy Hill says the persistent back is a big key to Chicago's Super Bowl victory formula.

Jones' the unsung hero of Bears' 'Super' run

Petrino: Vick will be allowed to call plays

2007-04-08T20:37:00.000-07:00

Taking a different tact than his predecessor, Atlanta Falcons coach Bobby Petrino will let Michael Vick take a more active role in running the offense.
That includes allowing Vick to call audibles.

Petrino: Vick will be allowed to call plays

Kavanaugh spent nearly 50 years with Giants

2007-04-07T07:32:00.001-07:00

Ken Kavanaugh, a star receiver for the Chicago Bears in the 1940s who spent nearly a half century with New York Giants as a coach and scout, has died. He was 90.
He died of complications from pneumonia Thursday in Sarasota, Fla., where he had lived since retiring from football in 1999, the Giants said.
Kavanaugh starred at LSU and was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 1963.

Kavanaugh spent nearly 50 years with Giants

Scout disses QB Smith

2007-04-07T07:32:00.000-07:00

One scout, the Bengals' Greg Seamon, was quoted on a Web site ridiculing Troy Smith as an overhyped Heisman-winning quarterback who would flop in the NFL or not make it at all. -- Philadelphia Daily News

Scout disses QB Smith

Davis should avoid Woodson episode, lock up Asomugha

2007-04-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

If Al Davis doesn't move quickly, Nnamdi Asomugha may find himself in another jersey for the 2008 season.

Davis should avoid Woodson episode, lock up Asomugha

Best of the 1983 and 2006 draft classes: Part I

2007-04-04T21:34:00.001-07:00

Because we appear to have plenty of time before Draft Day, a bit of nostalgia if you will. Take a look at the first-rounders taken in the 2006 draft: An impressive list loaded with names to tell the grandchildren about. In fact, the longer this child of the '80s looks at the 32, the fewer impressive Round One draft classes can I conjure up.

Best of the 1983 and 2006 draft classes: Part I

Thoughts on Losman, free agency and the draft

2007-04-04T21:34:00.000-07:00

Soon, the NFL will begin its offseason in earnest for all 32 teams. Among them is the Buffalo Bills, who are set to be one of the league's most intriguing franchises during March's free agency period and April's draft. With that said, here are some random thoughts on the Bills' upcoming offseason, plus some other things thrown in for good measure.

Thoughts on Losman, free agency and the draft

Judge: Tiki's torch to the Hall likely to burn out

2006-10-25T07:22:00.001-07:00

With Tiki Barber likely hanging up the spikes come year's end, the question becomes, does he make the Hall? In a query of voters, Clark Judge finds Barber to be more like Ricky Watters than Gale Sayers.

Judge: Tiki's torch to the Hall likely to burn out

Winslow Jr. attends brother's funeral (AP)

2006-10-25T07:22:00.000-07:00

Cleveland Browns tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. attended a funeral on Tuesday for his younger brother, Justin K.B. Winslow, who died suddenly last week in Kansas City, Mo. He was 23. The son of Hall of Fame tight end Kellen Winslow Sr. was found unconscious on Oct. 12 by his mother, Dawnn Wimes O'Bannon. According to a statement released by the family, he was unresponsive with a weak pulse.

Winslow Jr. attends brother's funeral (AP)

Redskins sign K Novak to replace Hall (AP)

2006-10-24T20:17:00.000-07:00

Nick Novak is taking over from John Hall as the Washington Redskins' kicker for the second time in as many years. The Redskins signed Novak on Tuesday after the former University of Maryland kicker won a four-way competition among available free agents. He'll handle the kicking duties in Sunday's game against Tennessee.

Redskins sign K Novak to replace Hall (AP)

Swansea Ticket and Travel Information

2006-10-22T17:33:00.000-07:00

All the Ticket and Travel News ahead of Rovers visit to the Liberty Stadium to face Swansea City on Friday night in Coca-Cola League, a game that has been moved due to this weekends international fixtures.

Swansea Ticket and Travel Information

Don Banks: If this is his last shot, Ravens' Billick wants to call all the shots

2006-10-21T08:28:00.001-07:00

Brian Billick's job is on the line and he knows it, says SI.com's Don Banks, who also weighs in on Dennis Green's shaky status in Arizona and pinpoints the Eagles' glaring problem.

Don Banks: If this is his last shot, Ravens' Billick wants to call all the shots

Warner says he might call it a career

2006-10-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

This might be the final season for Kurt Warner in the NFL.
The 35-year-old quarterback, who lost his job to rookie Matt Leinart, said Thursday he is considering retirement after this season.
"Definitely I'm thinking about my next step and what's best for me and all those things," he said.
Warner, who went from the Arena Football League and NFL Europe to lead St. Louis to two Super Bowls, is in the first year of a three-year contract he signed with the Cardinals in February.

Warner says he might call it a career

Redskins sign DB Troy Vincent (AP)

2006-10-18T07:01:00.001-07:00

After six weeks of letting receivers run unfettered through the secondary, the slumping Washington Redskins tried to address the problem Monday by signing five-time Pro Bowl defensive back Troy Vincent. Vincent, whose 47 interceptions ranks second among active players, was released from Buffalo Bills' injured reserve list last week.

Redskins sign DB Troy Vincent (AP)

Depleted Steelers bring back Chad Brown (AP)

2006-10-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

Chad Brown, a Pro Bowl linebacker for Pittsburgh 10 years ago, was signed Thursday by the Steelers to add depth and experience at what suddenly has become a depleted position. They need him now, too -- Pro Bowl linebacker Joey Porter is out for Sunday's game against Kansas City and coach Bill Cowher said Brown will play, though mostly in pass-rush situations.

Depleted Steelers bring back Chad Brown (AP)

Brown Strike Sends Tranmere Deep Into Mire

2006-10-17T21:15:00.000-07:00

Rovers play for 65 minutes with ten men and fail to hold on as Colchester moved in second spot in League One with a 1-0 win at Layer Road thanks to a second half free-kick from Wayne Brown after a foul by Rovers substitute Jason McAteer.

Brown Strike Sends Tranmere Deep Into Mire

Colclough out for season with neck injury

2006-10-17T12:48:00.000-07:00

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ricardo Colclough will miss the rest of the season because of a neck injury.
Colclough, a third-year player, was placed on the team's injured reserve list, the Steelers said Saturday. Rookie cornerback Anthony Madison was promoted to the active roster.
Colclough was not scheduled to play Sunday in San Diego because of a nerve problem in his neck. Colclough's muffed punt led to Cincinnati's decisive touchdown in a 28-20 victory in Pittsburgh on Sept. 24.

Colclough out for season with neck injury

Poor rush defense, leadership sink the Raiders

2006-10-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

The Raiders' Stuart Schweigert is on pace for 144 tackles this season. As a free safety -- the deepest line of defense.

Poor rush defense, leadership sink the Raiders

BigBlueBlog :: Giants employ Vick imposters

2006-10-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

Jared Lorenzen is a quarterback and he's left-handed, just like Michael Vick, which leads to the question: Why isn't he working on the scout team this week trying to imitate Vick for the Giants defense? I've lost some weight, Lorenzen...

BigBlueBlog :: Giants employ Vick imposters

Whose draft stock is up, down

2006-10-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday's schedule offered just a few games with national-title significance, but they were all hotly contested. They featured some good performances from highly rated prospects, the return to form of some previously injured players and an outing that lowered the grade of Notre Dame's Brady Quinn.

Whose draft stock is up, down

Hartwig knows about Haynesworth's temper

2006-10-09T07:10:00.001-07:00

Justin Hartwig saw the replay of Albert Haynesworth kicking a player in the head and wasn't surprised.
For good reason: The Carolina Panthers' center was a victim of Haynesworth's temper three years ago.
The Tennessee Titans defensive tackle was suspended five games - the longest suspension for an on-field incident in NFL history - for twice stomping on the head of Dallas center Andre Gurode on Sunday
Gurode, who lost his helmet, required 30 stitches to repair gashes on his face.

Hartwig knows about Haynesworth's temper

NFL suspends Henry for two games

2006-10-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

Bengals receiver Chris Henry received a two-game suspension Friday from the NFL for violating its conduct and substance abuse policies, making him the second Cincinnati player suspended this season for misconduct.
The second-year receiver also was fined $20,000 by the league. The Bengals have their bye this weekend, so Henry will sit out games against Tampa Bay and Carolina later this month.

NFL suspends Henry for two games

Reiss' Pieces :: Stats, Part II

2006-10-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, some of the Patriots' Top 10 statistical rankings were listed in an update. Here is a look at the few categories in which the Patriots rank in the Bottom 10:
Third-down defense -- 23rd in NFL
Unit was 28th before a strong effort against the Bengals last week; overall, opponents have converted 23 of 56 chances on third down (41.1 percent)
Field-goal percentage -- tied-29th
Rookie Stephen Gostkowski and the fiel...

Reiss' Pieces :: Stats, Part II

Reiss' Pieces :: Wednesday plan

2006-10-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

Here is today's Patriots media schedule at Gillette Stadium:
10:30 a.m. -- Bill Belichick press conference
11:10 a.m. -- Locker room access
11:45 a.m. -- Tom Brady press conference
12:40 p.m. -- Practice access
1:20 p.m. -- Nick Saban conference call
1:40 p.m. -- Daunte Culpepper conference call
4 p.m. -- Injury report released
We'll plan on passing along some updates throughout the day.

Reiss' Pieces :: Wednesday plan

Quick hits from every Week 3 NFL matchup

2006-10-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

Week 3 was a wild one for the NFL, which closed out its September schedule with a bang. Plenty of teams survived scares this past weekend, while others watched as early-season dreams shattered. Believe it or not, certain organizations have been all but eliminated from playoff contention at this point. In the history of the league, only three teams have rallied from 0-3 season deficits to make the playoffs. Thus, history's not on the side of a few losers from Sept. 24.

Quick hits from every Week 3 NFL matchup

Patriots file charge against Jets

2006-10-03T18:46:00.001-07:00

The New England Patriots have filed a tampering charge against the Jets in connection with New York's talks with wide receiver Deion Branch.
The move was confirmed Tuesday by a person within the league familiar with the situation who asked anonymity because he was not authorized to speak on the subject. On Monday, the Patriots traded Branch to Seattle for a first-round choice in next year's draft.

Patriots file charge against Jets

$26 could get Plummer out of trouble

2006-10-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

Douglas Stone wants a personal check for $26 from Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer for bending the license plate holder on his pickup truck.
And if the check arrives, he doesn't plan on cashing it, but rather cashing in - he's entertaining thoughts of putting both auto part and bank draft up for online auction.
"We've talked about that," laughed Stone, who was involved in a vehicle mishap with Plummer last April. "This case has been blown out of proportion. It really is a frivolous thing.

$26 could get Plummer out of trouble

Titans remember their past, retire Moon's No. 1 jersey

2006-10-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

The Titans honored a quarterback of the past Sunday, as the former Houston Oilers retired the No. 1 jersey of Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon.

Titans remember their past, retire Moon's No. 1 jersey

Titans to retire Moon's No. 1 jersey Sunday

2006-09-30T22:44:00.000-07:00

Warren Moon's No. 1 jersey will be retired Sunday during halftime of the Tennessee Titans' game with the Dallas Cowboys, and the quarterback also will be inducted into the team's Hall of Fame.

Titans to retire Moon's No. 1 jersey Sunday

With Brooks out, Walter in as Raiders QB (AP)

2006-09-30T10:06:00.001-07:00

Aaron Brooks will be sidelined two to four weeks with a strained pectoral muscle, giving the Raiders' starting quarterback job to second-year player Andrew Walter. Brooks hurt himself Sunday after fumbling his second straight snap from center in the first quarter of a 28-6 loss to Baltimore. Originally, the Raiders thought it was a rotator cuff injury, but an MRI on Monday showed it was just a...

With Brooks out, Walter in as Raiders QB (AP)

DEA: Kiel admits to shipping cough syrup (AP)

2006-09-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

Chargers strong safety Terrence Kiel admitted to shipping two parcels of prescription cough syrup to Texas, DEA officials said Wednesday, a day after the player was arrested at team headquarters. While Kiel did not tell the DEA his motive, the agency in Texas has found widespread abuse of codeine-based cough syrup mixed with soft drinks or drugs and referred to as "lean," said John S.

DEA: Kiel admits to shipping cough syrup (AP)

Reiss' Pieces :: Wednesday plan

2006-09-29T07:44:00.001-07:00

FOXBOROUGH -- Should be a busy day here at Gillette Stadium. Here is a look at today's media schedule:
10:30 a.m. -- Bill Belichick press conference
11:10 a.m. -- Media access to locker room
11:45 a.m. -- Tom Brady press conference
11:45 a.m. -- Marvin Lewis conference call
12:00 p.m. -- Chad Johnson conference call
12:45 p.m. -- Access to Patriots practice
4:00 p.m. -- Injury report released
We'll plan on passing along updates over the c...

Reiss' Pieces :: Wednesday plan

BigBlueBlog :: Lewis offers little defense

2006-09-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

When Tim Lewis met with his defensive coaches before training camp began, he spoke glowingly of all the dangerous weapons he had on his revamped defense. Then he told them, The worst thing I could do is screw it up....

BigBlueBlog :: Lewis offers little defense

Railbird Central :: Harris practices with red jersey

2006-09-23T08:16:00.000-07:00

"Cornerback Al Harris wore a red jersey in practice on Wednesday - the kind quarterbacks wear to remind teammates not to hit them," reports the
Akron Beacon Journal
.
After being injured in this past Sunday's game, Harris is listed as questionable for the upcoming game against the Detroit Lions. Expect him to play.

Railbird Central :: Harris practices with red jersey

Fantasy Football: Week 3 sleepers

2006-09-22T07:01:00.001-07:00

This week, we're going to take a look at low-profile players that could become an unlikely source of fantasy football firepower. We'll deal with one player per position, and although I don't fancy myself to be fortune teller (you would have to be to genuinely predict a breakout performance out of a quarterback that threw for under 100 yards last week), I will tell you that with a little research, and some luck, you can cash in with big points out of a reserve or waiver-wire player:

Fantasy Football: Week 3 sleepers

Falcons' Koenen: A one-man triplet

2006-09-22T07:01:00.000-07:00

During a radio interview earlier this week, Atlanta Falcons' quarterback Michael Vick declared: "I'm a versatile player. I can beat people with my legs or my feet."

Falcons' Koenen: A one-man triplet

Saints sell out Superdome for season (AP)

2006-09-21T18:55:00.000-07:00

The New Orleans Saints officially sold out the entire regular-season home schedule in the Louisiana Superdome. It is the first time in the history of the franchise, founded in 1967, that every available seat is owned by a season ticket holder. One year after Hurricane Katrina displaced the Saints for the entire regular season and placed the NFL's future in New Orleans in doubt, Saints officials now...

Saints sell out Superdome for season (AP)

Smoot vs. Smith: Round Two may be put on hold

2006-09-20T07:18:00.000-07:00

The first thing that comes to mind when reading Carolina at Minnesota on the schedule is Fred Smoot vs. Steve Smith. Last season the Panthers' receiver torched the Vikings' cornerback to the tune of 11 receptions for 201 yards and a touchdown. To add insult to injury (Smoot actually was injured in the fourth quarter), Smith decided it would be funny to imitate rowing a boat after a touchdown, mocking Smoot's involvement in last year's bye week shenanigans on Lake Minnetonka.

Smoot vs. Smith: Round Two may be put on hold

Voice of The Cardinals :: Cardinals Vs Seahawks Preview

2006-09-19T13:58:00.001-07:00

The Arizona Cardinals have the Seattle Seahawks on the schedule this week. The Cardinals have not had much success with the Seahawks as of late. The past few seasons Arizona has not been able to hang in with Seattle let alone beat them more then once, they have struggled especially when playing in Seattle. ...

Voice of The Cardinals :: Cardinals Vs Seahawks Preview

BigBlueBlog :: It's 2 tough

2006-09-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

The scenario was unthinkable to the Giants a few weeks ago when they were still talking and thinking big. They brushed off their difficult schedule and imagined themselves taking an early lead in the division. They never envisioned starting the...

BigBlueBlog :: It's 2 tough

Mannings try to diffuse 'Brothers Bowl' hype

2006-09-18T20:56:00.001-07:00

Peyton Manning hoped one training camp interview session would end the questions about Sunday's Brothers Bowl. As his New York brother might say: Forget about it.

Mannings try to diffuse 'Brothers Bowl' hype

Jags LB Peterson upgraded for MNF game

2006-09-18T20:56:00.000-07:00

Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson was upgraded to probable for Jacksonville's game Monday night against defending Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh, while receiver Matt Jones was added to the injury report with a sore groin.

Jags LB Peterson upgraded for MNF game

AZPigskin.com :: Warner nets Player of the Week honors

2006-09-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

Kurt Warner's opening weekend fireworks earned him NFC Player of the Week honors.
In typical Warner fashion, he pushed the spotlight on his fellow on the field performers
"I'm surrounded by a bunch of great players," Warner said. "The thing you know in this league is no one guy ever has success, no one great player ever has success alone. I've been a lot of places and all the success that I've had, no matter...

AZPigskin.com :: Warner nets Player of the Week honors

Dolphins, Steelers set to square off

2006-09-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

A near-death experience could not keep Ben Roethlisberger from missing the Pittsburgh Steelers' season opener.
His appendix will.
A sudden ailment leaves the NFL's season opener on Thursday without its biggest star, and forces the Steelers to turn to Charlie Batch in their first meaningful game since winning the Super Bowl as they try to spoil Daunte Culpepper's debut with the Miami Dolphins.

Dolphins, Steelers set to square off

Chargers RB Tomlinson back at practice (AP)

2006-09-16T22:28:00.002-07:00

Pro Bowl running back LaDainian Tomlinson returned to practice Wednesday, primed to finally get his season started. A well-rested Tomlinson and his San Diego Chargers head to Oakland to face the Raiders in Monday night's opener. He didn't have a carry in the exhibition season and is eager to face his team's biggest rival.

Chargers RB Tomlinson back at practice (AP)

Big Ben out, Culpepper in for NFL opener (AP)

2006-09-16T22:28:00.001-07:00

They were the NFL's hottest team at the end of last season, with numerous reasons to think they will be better still in 2006. Their quarterback's exceptional offseason injury recovery makes them all the more optimistic this could be a championship season. The Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers, right?

Big Ben out, Culpepper in for NFL opener (AP)

Dolphins-Steelers opener draws record TV audience

2006-09-16T22:28:00.000-07:00

A record 19.3 million viewers tuned in to watch the
Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers defeat the Miami Dolphins
28-17 Thursday, the fourth year since the NFL switched its schedule
to begin on Thursday nights.

Dolphins-Steelers opener draws record TV audience

Week 2 Rundown: Rivarlies renewed

2006-09-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

Dallas and Washington renew their heated rivalry, as the Redskins play host to T.O. and the Cowboys on Sunday night. Michael Tanier gets you ready for that game and breaks down the best and worst matchups to look for in Week 2.

Week 2 Rundown: Rivarlies renewed

Reiss' Pieces :: Wednesday plan

2006-09-15T21:31:00.001-07:00

Should be a busy day at Gillette Stadium.
The schedule:
10:30 a.m. -- Bill Belichick press conference
11:10 a.m. -- Players available in the locker room
11:20 a.m. -- Eric Mangini Jets conference call
11:30 a.m. -- Jonathan Vilma Jets conference call
11:40 a.m. -- Tom Brady press conference
12:45 p.m. -- Practice
We'll plan on passing along updates throughout the day.

Reiss' Pieces :: Wednesday plan

Benson heaps praise on Saints fans

2006-09-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

Saints owner Tom Benson in recent years has stoked fears his team might have to move from small-market New Orleans. On Tuesday, he heaped praise upon area fans about record ticket sales.
The Saints have sold about 65,000 season tickets for their eight-game schedule in the Louisiana Superdome, Benson said. In what at times resembled a glorified sales pitch, he urged fans to buy the remaining 3,300 tickets to guarantee sellouts for the entire season.

Benson heaps praise on Saints fans

Fantasy Update: Week 1 Surprises

2006-09-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

Here's a recap of the top fantasy football surprise performances from Week 1. They range from mildly surprising to downright unbelievable!

Fantasy Update: Week 1 Surprises

NFL remembers Sept. 11 during openers

2006-09-13T22:38:00.000-07:00

Giants coach Tom Coughlin was in Jacksonville on Sept. 11, 2001. His son Tim, a bond trader, was somewhere in the south tower of the World Trade Center.
Amani Toomer looked out the window of his New Jersey home and watched in disbelief as the towers fell.
In Washington, LaVar Arrington felt a shudder as a jet slammed into the Pentagon.
Five years later, the 9-11 terrorist attacks feels like yesterday to members of the New York Giants.

NFL remembers Sept. 11 during openers

Sans Smith, Panthers' offense is much less intimidating

2006-09-10T19:40:00.000-07:00

Entering their season-opening game this Sunday at Bank of America Stadium against the Altanta Falcons, the Carolina Panthers still aren't sure if their best offensive player, receiver Steve Smith, will play.

Sans Smith, Panthers' offense is much less intimidating

Dr. Z's Picks

2006-09-09T07:22:00.000-07:00

SI.com's Dr. Z explains how he came up with records for all 32 teams and his controversial call on who will square off in Super Bowl XLI.

Dr. Z's Picks

Preseason power rankings

2006-09-07T07:44:00.001-07:00

Can this year's Seahawks break the curse of the Super Bowl loser and reach the playoffs? Aaron Schatz thinks so, as Seattle's balanced squad tops the latest power rankings. See where your favorite team ranks.

Preseason power rankings

The Last Laugh

2006-09-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

In his division-by-division predictons, SI.com's Don Banks says the Colts are finally ready to quiet their critics and capture Super Bowl XLI.

The Last Laugh

Notebook: Now hear this -- Simms ready to take next step

2006-09-06T22:45:00.001-07:00

Tampa Bay coach Jon Gruden is hard on all his quarterbacks, and that has been particularly true for Chris Simms the past two seasons. But Pete Prisco says all the abuse has helped Simms become thick-skinned, a better player -- and the unquestioned starter for the Bucs this season.

Notebook: Now hear this -- Simms ready to take next step

Like fine wine, Barber gets better with age

2006-09-06T22:45:00.000-07:00

Watch for this exciting player to push the 2,000 yard mark and once again contend for the rushing title.

Like fine wine, Barber gets better with age

Railbird Central :: Fans can meet Paul Hornung in Green Bay

2006-09-06T07:15:00.000-07:00

"Fans can meet with a Packers Hall of Fame and Pro Football Hall of Fame member during the Classic Sports Originals 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday at Bay Park Square mall. Paul Hornung, who played with the Packers in 1957 to 1962 and 1964 to 1966, will pose for pictures and sign copies of his latest book, Lombardi and Me.
"The Green Bay Press-Gazette will publish excerpts of the book in its Sept. 10 edition," ...

Railbird Central :: Fans can meet Paul Hornung in Green Bay

Passionate Seau ranks as an all-time great

2006-09-01T20:03:00.001-07:00

Linebacker Junior Seau officially called it a career Monday after 16 NFL seasons. Elliott Kalb says Seau certainly was a talented player, but it's his exceptional passion and work ethic that will ultimately earn him a spot in the Hall of Fame.

Passionate Seau ranks as an all-time great

Fights erupt at Falcons camp

2006-09-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

The broiling tedium of training camp finally made the Atlanta Falcons snap.
Veteran Lawyer Milloy was among several players to lose his temper in the oppressive August heat Monday morning. DeAngelo Hall, Matt Lehr, Adam Jennings and Alge Crumpler were seething, too.
"This is football, and as long as it don't translate into the things in the locker room, everything will be fine," Milloy said. "In my 11 years, this has been one of the toughest, if not the toughest, training camp in my career.

Fights erupt at Falcons camp

Unit-by-unit special teams rankings

2006-09-01T07:24:00.000-07:00

The Bills didn't have much to celebrate last season, but in their final unit-by-unit installment, the Football Outsiders say the one thing Buffalo can hang its hat on is a No. 1 ranking when it comes to special teams. Where does your team rank?

Unit-by-unit special teams rankings

Is trading T.J. Duckett really a good idea?

2006-08-31T07:04:00.000-07:00

If the rumor mill is to be believed, the Atlanta Falcons seem eager to trade fifth-year RB T.J. Duckett, with the Jets and Redskins the most interested suitors.

Is trading T.J. Duckett really a good idea?

Ranking the defensive backs, team-by-team

2006-08-30T14:57:00.001-07:00

The secondary serves as the last line of defense, and no place has better DBs than Denver. Football Outsiders continues its series on team-by-team unit rankings by breaking down the best and worst defensive backfields in the league.

Ranking the defensive backs, team-by-team

Kubiak: Texans not planning to cut RB Davis

2006-08-30T14:57:00.000-07:00

Texans coach Gary Kubiak said there has been no discussion of cutting Domanick Davis, and said that the worst-case scenario was a season spent on the injured reserve list.

Kubiak: Texans not planning to cut RB Davis

Do Giants trust Manning?

2006-07-18T08:36:00.002-07:00

Pro Bowl tight end Alge Crumpler had shoulder surgery in late February, president and general manager Rich McKay confirmed Tuesday. The Falcons did not reveal the injury until now, three weeks before the start of training camp. McKay offered no explanation as to why the injury and subsequent surgery was kept private for so long. The injury could limit Crumpler during the preseason. -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Do Giants trust Manning?

Roethlisberger apologizes to Steelers, fans

2006-07-18T08:36:00.001-07:00

Ben Roethlisberger apologized to the Pittsburgh Steelers, fans and his family Thursday, a day after leaving the hospital, saying he was fortunate to be alive and promising to wear a helmet if he ever again rides a motorcycle.
"In the past few days, I've gained a new perspective on life," the Super Bowl-winning quarterback said in a statement released by the team. "By the grace of God, I'm fortunate to be alive ...

Roethlisberger apologizes to Steelers, fans

Four Downs: AFC North

2006-07-18T08:36:00.000-07:00

The Super Bowl champion Steelers had long neglected the receiver position in the draft. But Pittsburgh responded this time around by taking Ohio State's Santonio Holmes. How did the rest of the AFC North fare? The Football Outsiders are on the case.

Four Downs: AFC North

No longer Porter-esque, Gabriel may be the best

2006-07-16T20:11:00.000-07:00

Doug Gabriel, at 6-2, 215 pounds, measures very closely to the 6-2, 220-pound Jerry Porter. Rumor has it that a bad attitude weighs around five pounds.

No longer Porter-esque, Gabriel may be the best

49ers hoping Adams can become a game-changer

2006-07-16T08:00:00.001-07:00

In past articles, talented cornerback Shawntae Spencer's development has been chronicled, but the name that stands out above all is free safety Mike Adams.

49ers hoping Adams can become a game-changer

Detroit's re-signed unrestricted FA's: Lucky seven?

2006-07-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

The dust has temporarily settled on the NFL acquisitions market, giving Detroit Lions backers a chance to look at seven the silver-and-blue formerly unrestricted free agents now solidly placed on the roster.

Detroit's re-signed unrestricted FA's: Lucky seven?

StatLeader.com :: Player Ranking - Consistency Factors, and Confidence Ratings

2006-07-14T21:48:00.001-07:00

I know many of you have been waiting for the continuation of Doc's Fantasy Football Draft Tips. He sort of left you hanging out there waiting for the next installment, The Comeback Kids. More on that shortly.
I have received numerous questions asking what types of information will be available in our draft package (to be released later this month). Well, there will be individual league by league rankings for the top 75 WRs, 60 RBs,...

StatLeader.com :: Player Ranking - Consistency Factors, and Confidence Ratings

Ranking the quarterbacks, team by team

2006-07-14T21:48:00.000-07:00

The dark days of the NFL off-season are almost over, with training camps just two weeks away. And to help you pass the time until then, the Football Outsiders will rank every unit in the NFL from 1 to 32. And what better place to start than the quarterback position?

Ranking the quarterbacks, team by team

Chiefs hopeful Hall can become dual-threat

2006-07-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

Now that Dante Hall has mastered the art of returning kicks, the team would love to utilize his game-changing speed and tremendous vision on its already-potent offense.

Chiefs hopeful Hall can become dual-threat

Titans, McNair still at odds

2006-07-10T07:17:00.001-07:00

Steve McNair may have won his arbitration hearing, but that hasn't kept the Titans from finding another way to delay his departure. Our NFL Czar discusses Tennessee's tactics and more in his latest blog update.

Titans, McNair still at odds

McNair acquistision was a risk

2006-07-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome is taking some heat for the trade that brought QB Steve McNair to Baltimore. Coach Brian Billick insisted that he needed McNair to turn the club's fortunes around. Was a mistake made? Our NFL Czar considers it in his latest blog update.

McNair acquistision was a risk

Dr. Z's NFL Mailbag: Broncos' Davis faces no sure thing for Hall

2006-07-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

Even with more than 7,600 yards rushing and a pair of Super Bowl wins on his résumé, Terrell Davis is no sure thing for the Hall of Fame, writes Dr. Z in his latest NFL Mailbag.

Dr. Z's NFL Mailbag: Broncos' Davis faces no sure thing for Hall

New ballgame in N.Y.C. with Marty's son

2006-07-08T07:30:00.003-07:00

Being a former quarterback himself, Brian Schottenheimer has a good idea of what type of player he wants to lead the Jets offense.

New ballgame in N.Y.C. with Marty's son

Chiefs dip into AFL for secondary help

2006-07-08T07:30:00.002-07:00

The Kansas City Chiefs signed Jerald Brown, the Arena Football League's defensive player of the year, to a two-year contract on Tuesday.

Chiefs dip into AFL for secondary help

Rams restructure front office (AP)

2006-07-08T07:30:00.001-07:00

The St. Louis Rams have restructured their front office, eliminating the general manager position and hiring two vice presidents. Tony Softli was selected vice president for player personnel, the Rams said Tuesday. Softli, who was formerly director of college scouting for the Carolina Panthers, will lead the player personnel department that will include longtime general manager Charley Armey, whose...

Rams restructure front office (AP)

Taylor being sued in assault incident

2006-07-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor was sued by a man who said the NFL player brandished a gun and repeatedly hit him during a fight last June.
Ryan Hill filed the suit on June 27 in Miami Dade Circuit Court and is seeking $15,000 in damages from Taylor.
The lawsuit states that Hill was bruised, incurred medical expenses and lost wages because of the fight.
Taylor, 23, reached a deal with prosecutors last month after they agreed to drop felony charges against him stemming from the fight.

Taylor being sued in assault incident

Dr. Z: Who should Canton call in 2007?

2006-07-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

Unlike in prior years, 2007 won't feature a single shoo-in Hall of Famer. Will Thurman Thomas have his name enshrined? How about Michael Irvin? SI.com's Dr. Z reveals his picks.

Dr. Z: Who should Canton call in 2007?

The mountain less traveled

2006-07-06T07:33:00.001-07:00

After two years of patiently waiting, Philip Rivers has finally received the call he had been waiting for.

The mountain less traveled

Are the 49ers' pass catchers really dead last?

2006-07-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

In ESPN's ultimate depth chart, three of the four letter network's experts--Sean Salibury, Mark Schlereth, and Mike Golic--rated the San Francisco 49ers' pass catchers as the worst in the league.

Are the 49ers' pass catchers really dead last?

CBS' Visser first woman honored by Hall

2006-07-05T22:26:00.001-07:00

CBS Sports' Lesley Visser, entering her 34th year covering the NFL, has been named the 2006 recipient of the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award.

CBS' Visser first woman honored by Hall

Visser first woman to win Rozelle broadcasting award

2006-07-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

Sports reporter and broadcaster Lesley Visser will become the first woman to receive the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award for exceptional contributions to the sport.

Visser first woman to win Rozelle broadcasting award

Playmakers Fantasy Football League :: Playmakers Draft Location

2006-07-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

This is my second post, which is two more than anyone else in this league except for the pirates. Anyways, this year is going to be an interesting year. I have told the pirates that I am willing to host the draft but this depends upon the timing of the construction on my house. I am adding a movie room/family room (I call it a movie room) to my house. If the timing is right and the room is done in time I will definately hold the draft. Alright you bu...

Playmakers Fantasy Football League :: Playmakers Draft Location

Top 5 worst supplemental draft picks

2006-07-02T21:53:00.000-07:00

Bernie Kosar. Cris Carter. Jamal Williams. These are NFL greats who were worth the gamble in the NFL Supplemental Draft. Brian Bosworth? Uh, not so much. Eric Moneypenny ranks the all-time worst supplemental picks in NFL history.

Top 5 worst supplemental draft picks

Cowher criticizes first-rounder Holmes (AP)

2006-07-01T07:58:00.003-07:00

Steelers coach Bill Cowher on Thursday criticized No. 1 draft pick Santonio Holmes for his arrest last month in Miami, but said he will not hold the incident against the former Ohio State receiver. Holmes, who missed four weeks of coaching sessions due to NCAA regulations, was arrested in South Beach for disorderly conduct during a Memorial Day weekend crackdown by local authorities.

Cowher criticizes first-rounder Holmes (AP)

Packers release defensive tackle Washington

2006-07-01T07:58:00.002-07:00

The Green Bay Packers on Friday released defensive tackle Donnell Washington, a third-round draft pick in 2004 who never played in a regular-season game.
The 328-pound Washington was sent home from the Packers' post-draft minicamp in early May because he reported out of shape. Washington suffered a foot injury early in training camp as a rookie in 2004, missed all four preseason games and was placed on injured reserve.

Packers release defensive tackle Washington

Patriots RB Dillon eager to bounce back (AP)

2006-07-01T07:58:00.001-07:00

Corey Dillon is "looking to do big things" for the New England Patriots. The 31-year-old Dillon says too many people have been too quick to anoint rookie first-round draft pick Laurence Maroney as the savior of the Patriots' running game, which declined last season as Dillon battled ankle and calf injuries.

Patriots RB Dillon eager to bounce back (AP)

Four Downs: AFC East

2006-07-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

Did the Dolphins get the steal of the draft in Arizona State's Derek Hagan? In their relentless quest to leave no stone unturned on the 2006 NFL Draft, the Football Outsiders ponder Miami and the rest of the AFC East.

Four Downs: AFC East

Free-agent scorecard: Breaking down the winners, losers

2006-06-28T10:39:00.002-07:00

With only a few 'names' left on the market -- and not much money out there to pay for him -- Clark Judge figures it's time to break down the winners and losers from the frenzy of free-agency.

Free-agent scorecard: Breaking down the winners, losers

Skins developing youth and depth along offensive line

2006-06-28T10:39:00.001-07:00

The Washington Redskins made quite a splash in the offseason free agent market when they signed big play wide receivers Brandon Lloyd and Antwaan Randel El.

Skins developing youth and depth along offensive line

Browns' Bentley ready to prove fiercest critic wrong

2006-06-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

There were many terrific free-agent signings this offseason, but few were better than the Cleveland Browns and two-time Pro Bowl center LeCharles Bentley agreeing to an accord. In his four-year career with the Saints, Bentley emerged as one of the NFL's premier interior offensive linemen. He began his career as a guard, then switched to center and made consecutive Pro Bowl appearances in the last two seasons.

Browns' Bentley ready to prove fiercest critic wrong

Saints OT Brown charged with battery (AP)

2006-06-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Jammal Brown was free on bond Friday following his arrest on a domestic abuse complaint from his wife. Brown was booked Thursday with domestic abuse battery after his wife placed a 911 call, said Capt. George Bonnett, a spokesman for the St. Tammany Parish sheriff. When officers responded, Brown was not at home, but returned before officers left, Bonnett said.

Saints OT Brown charged with battery (AP)