The Hornets outshot MCI

Several ladies donned their best hats for a good cause Sunday afternoon.

Cafe 230 hosted the Ladies in Hats Benefit Luncheon.

Organizers say the event helps raise funds, but also acts as a support group for people with or affected by cancer.

“The hats are just donning hat in support of somebody whose life has been touched by cancer. Everybody who goes through chemo doesn't necessarily lose their hair but some of them do, so instead of a wig or something like that,discount Chicago White Sox Hats some people enjoy wearing hats,” said Jennifer Dyson.

As elsewhere, we witness more financial institutions conducting business across the financial sub-sectors, often through subsidiaries and affiliates.

Players have become far more adept at responding to emerging market opportunities, and the number and variety of players —Cheap Los Angeles Dodgers Hats domestic and international, traditional and non-traditional — continues to expand.

There are new technologies and new products, new mergers, acquisitions and alliances.

Kenya’s vibrant financial sector continues to evolve and transform, and at an ever increasing pace.

The Hornets outshot MCI, 19-2,wholesale Los Angeles Dodgers Hats and Leavitt goalie Taylor Eells made two saves.

except for the size of the hats

The thing is — the two skits aren't all that similar at all, except for the size of the hats.

The first, and loudest, was from a SNLsketch called "Ladies Who Lunch" where Kristen Wiig is constantly one-upped by Amy Poehler's continually shrinking hat size. This was noticed by the creators of Cartoon Network's Tim and Eric Awesome Show: Great Job!, Cheap F1 hats to note the similarities to their skit, "Tiny Hats".

Here's the story, such as it is: SNL's premiere had two skits that other sites have pointed to as having potentially ripped off other shows.

'm not going to weigh in too much here on the Saturday Night Live "joke-stealing controversy", because honestlyWholesale F1 hats , there isn't one.

She cites The Worst Pies in London from Sweeney Todd,

I came across a clip from a concert at the Hollywood Bowl in 2005, to celebrate Sondheim’s 75th birthday. It showed a choir of high school children, some 200 strong, singing Our Time, the closing anthem from Merrily We Roll Along. The student who had posted the clip – one of the choir – had captioned it, simply, as 'the best day of my life’.Wholesale DC shoes hats   Sondheim, it transpired, was in the audience, 'standing offstage, stage right’, another member of the choir wrote, 'crying the whole time.’ 

'I think that’s the reason this TV show Glee is such a hit,’ Sondheim says. 'Putting on a show is absolutely a microcosm of what we wish the world would be. It’s people of varying talents, varying intelligences, getting together and making something that wasn’t there before. And that is the most wonderful thing.’ 

Anyone wishing to make an immediate acquaintance with Sondheim’s songsCheap NFL hats , and to see how far they have travelled, could do worse than spend an afternoon on YouTube, which provides a marvellous archive of fragments from different productions, not only in professional theatre, but also in schools and local dramatic societies. There is something sweetly affecting in these amateur clips – the musical as collaborative exercise,Wholesale  NFL hats  a collective repository of hopes and dreams. 

She cites The Worst Pies in London from Sweeney Todd, in which Mrs Lovett is required to act the making of a pie as she sings, marking the rhythm of the song by banging a rolling-pin on the off-beat. 'When we did it at the National it must have taken me a month to get that spot-on. But once you find the key to it, it’s just blissfulCheap NBA hats.’ 

New Yorker staff writer David Grann

Grann discovered Fawcett after researching an article on Conan Doyle, an author whose novel The Lost World is based upon Fawcett's obsession. Wholesale F1 hats While for decades adventurers and scientists searched in vain for evidence of Fawcett's missing party and/or the lost city of Z, with many having died from disease or starvation or simply having disappeared, Grann was able to capitalize on information gleaned from logbooks shared by Fawcett's granddaughter that would lead him to a more precise direction that Fawcett's party took. While Fawcett was drawn into the jungle with "a machete, a compass and a divine sense of purpose," Grann had spent more than three years verifying information and convincing himself that he was on the right trail...although he had to admit that Fawcett's obsession may have become his own. 

In spite of these limitations Grann chose to spend five weeks in the wilderness of Brazil. Cheap A&F hats As many before him had tried to do, he was in search of the mystery behind the disappearance of Percy Fawcett, a British explorer who in 1925 vanished in the Amazon with his 21-year old son and son's friend during a quest to find a lost ancient civilization Fawcett had dubbed simply "Z." 

New Yorker staff writer David Grann told the audience he was susceptible to keratitis. He doesn't hunt. He doesn't camp out, and he sometimes gets lost on the subway on his way to work. 

Rocky Balboa and Muhammad Ali

the Manhattan-based athletics company synonymous with boxing, is celebrating its hundredth anniversary this year. For the landmark, they've partnered with Kangol, the nearly-as-old British hatmaker, to produce a limited-edition collection of hats. Fantastic hats.

Boxers, both historical and fictional, have long had a penchant for headwear, and Kangol selected four styles from the last century — each representing a different era in the Everlast timeline. The two standouts for us are the Beanie (above at left, representing 1961-85) and the Player, a crushable felt fedora frequented in the 25 years before that. As with the other two looks, both hats will be available in black come October,   wholesale New era mlb hatsand you can pretty easily picture their referential yet modern appeal atop the heads of such luminaries as Rocky Balboa and Muhammad Ali (or at least his friend Malcolm X). And if it's good enough for them — and two companies still thriving 172 years combined — it damn well be good enough for you, champ.

Working to put colorful lids on Ag-Venture kids

The distinctive cowboy hats that each of third graders flaunt throughout the three days of the annual Ag-Venture program have become a welcomed and festive part of the experience.

Pam Fafeita, Activities Director at Reflections on Silver Lake in Avon Park, Cheap NFL hatsis enjoying yet another year of organizing volunteers to help with the hats.

Fafeita and numerous volunteers spend quite a bit of time working to string the hats for all of the third graders that will participate in Ag-Venture each year.

"It takes about a month. They don't work on it non-stop, they take there time and do it sporadically," explained Fafeita.

Thursday morning, the Reflections community center was filled with residents and volunteers. Five huge boxes of were filled to the top with red, green, and yellow straw cowboy hats.

"There are different groups so each group gets a different colored straw hat. Wholesale  NFL hats That way if we see a kid with a red hat in a group of yellows, we know he's at the wrong station," Fafeita said.

This year total number of hats was 1,152. Each student will receive a hat to wear throughout the program and keep.

The volunteers had the hats scattered across several tables and piles of string next to them. "We string the hats, the string we add keeps the hats around their necks and from falling off," explained Fafeita.

The black string is run through the rim of the hat and across to the other side and fed back down. The volunteers then simply tie and cut the string accordingly at a certain length. "It's fairly simple," said many of the volunteers.

Not only does the group spend many hours stringing hats for the third-graders, several of the Silver Lake residents are volunteers at Ag-Venture as well.

Bonnie Ermel is in her fifth year of volunteering at the Ag-Venture program. "I will be at the ornamental horticulture station. We teach them how to grow something different every year. It just amazes me that these kids are able to do this," Ermel said.

Ermel seemed enthusiastic about returning again next month. "The kids keep me going back. Its just great to see them learn," Cheap NBA hatssaid Ermel.

Sandy and Gene Shaffer are also five-year volunteers with the Ag-Venture program. "Watching a child plant something that's never put their hand in the dirt, it's really something to see," said Mrs. Shaffer.

The Shaffers have volunteered at every station, with the exception of the cow station, over the past five years. "This year we will be at the alligator and strawberry stations," said Mr. Shaffer.

The volunteers are enthusiastic and excited about this year's program. They are working diligently to prepare for the students three days at Ag-Venture, which is Oct. 26-28 at the county fairgrounds in Sebring. The hat stringing should be completed by early October.

"The kids are a joy, each year they are great. That's why we keep going back," Ermel said.

Eagles Notes

“I felt comfortable with Lindley,” Reid said. “I think Macho’s a good safety. That’s where he started for us last year (at the beginning of the year). He can also help you out in dime situations inside.”

Perhaps not coincidentally, Reid said Macho Harris, who had been working at cornerback earlier in the preseason, was now being used as a backup at free safety, where he played last season.

“I think I did pretty good,” he said. “It builds confidence. I think I feel good going forward.”

Rookie cornerback Trevard Lindley was encouraged after playing two series with the first-string defense Friday, and coming up with an interception of Matt Cassel jersey .

Lindley Rising

“I didn't even know what happened,” Bell said. “I was excited after the play. When I saw someone laying on the ground, my whole attitude changed. … You hate to see that happen.”

Replays showed that the two players banged helmets on the play.

“I'm glad he's not seriously injured,” Bell said. “That's the main thing.”

That was a relief to Bell, who said he “couldn't even sleep” after the game, and that he badgered wholesale  Eagles jersey trainer Rick Burkholder for updates about Sheffield's condition.

Chiefs rookie linebacker Cameron Sheffield was released from the hospital Saturday after suffering a neck injury while tackling Bell in Friday's second half. Reports indicate Sheffield had movement in all his extremities.
Big Relief

“A lot better than I expected,” he said. “I thought I'd be way more tired. It was good to get out there and get my legs underneath me.”

Bell, signed in the offseason after spending the last two years with the wholesale Saints jersey , only rushed for 17 yards on eight carries against the Chiefs. But he too said he felt good.

“I'm ready for the Packers,” Herremans said. “It felt good to get out there. Obviously I'm not in mid-game form. There are things to work on for me, myself, and the five of us across the board (on the offensive line).”

Herremans had said before practice that he came through Friday’s game unscathed. Ditto for running back Mike Bell, who made his first appearance of the preseason after being slowed by calf and hamstring injuries.
Back in Action

Tight end Cornelius Ingram, who missed Friday’s game after having a cyst removed from behind his left knee the day before, also returned to practice.

Center Jamaal Jackson (knee) saw extensive action with the first string Sunday, and while Reid said Jackson would not play Thursday, he is not ruling out a return in time for the Sept. 12 season opener against Green Bay.

Offensive lineman Nick Cole, who has not played in the preseason because of a knee injury, went through his first full practice since training camp, seeing extensive action at left guard after Herremans departed.

Also leaving practice early was guard Todd Herremans, with what Reid described as a “slight” ankle injury. The injury was to his right ankle; Herremans had made his first appearance of the preseason Friday, after missing the first two games with an injury to his left foot.

Cornerback Dmitri Patterson (groin strain) and linebacker Ernie Sims (forearm strain) also did not practice Sunday, and rookie linebacker Ricky Sapp left with a knee injury. He will undergo an MRI on Monday.
Defensive end Trent Cole was also held out of practice Sunday with the sprained right ankle he suffered against the Chiefs, though Reid does not believe it is serious. (Cole had Tweeted the same Saturday, after undergoing an MRI.)

Wide receiver cheap DeSean Jackson jersey , injured on the Eagles’ first offensive play Friday, did not practice Sunday with what Reid described as an upper back strain. Reid said Jackson’s back is “pretty tender,” and that he will also have his wisdom teeth removed Monday.
Injury Report

“I know that everybody’s making a stink about not punching it in the end zone,” Reid said. “… I don’t have a concern with him punching it into the end zone. We’ll be fine.”

Reid, asked specifically about Kolb’s work to this point in the preseason, said his new quarterback has done some “very good things.”

“What we put on film is enough to make corrections,” he said. “That's enough. We need to give the young guys an opportunity.”

Coach Andy Reid typically does not play his starters in the team's last exhibition, and said he will “most likely” go with the second- and third-stringers Thursday. Weaver, for his part, does not believe it will be necessary to break with tradition.

Kolb was just 11-for-25 for 103 yards with an interception in the game. And afterward he told reporters he wouldn't mind seeing some action in the final preseason game, against the Jets on Thursday night at Lincoln Financial Field. 

The first-team offense has scored just one touchdown in three exhibitions to date, on an 18-yard run by LeSean McCoy in Friday's 20-17 victory in Kansas City. That came two plays after the cheap Chiefs jersey turned the ball over at their own 22 early in the first quarter, and also came with starting quarterback Kevin Kolb out of the game. Michael Vick was instead at the controls.

“We're not worried at all,” fullback Leonard Weaver said before practice Sunday. “All the inconsistencies, so-called, are correctible. We have time to correct them, and we're going to correct them, as such.”

Perhaps not surprisingly, one prominent Eagle does not believe that the team's offensive struggles in the preseason are any great cause for concern.
。

A.M. practice wrap

Georgia - The Patriots first game is against the Cincinnati Bengals. With Carson Palmer, Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco, their secondary is going to be tested through the air.

And they'll need it to be a lot better than it looked during this morning's joint practice with the Atlanta Falcons.

In the span of about three plays during a 7-on-7 drill, Jonathan Wilhite got beaten long by Harry Douglas and then Terrence Wheatley saw a throw to Troy Bergeron sail over his head. Both throws went for scores. If they were keeping score.

And when the teams got together for 11-on-11 work, Bill Belichick said to his defense, "Do you think three deep balls is enough for today?" meaning, enough was enough. (I didn't see the third one, since the Pats' O and D were on different fields).

The triggerman on two of the bombs was backup Chris Redman.

The Patriots got some of their own over the top of the Falcons defense with Rey Maualuga dropping in a perfectly thrown 50-yarder over Christopher Owens. The margin between Moss and the defenders checking him both athletically and in experience still seems massive. He can't be covered for long.

A few other nuggets:

bullet.gif Former Patriot Ray Hamilton is the Falcons' defensive-line coach and he was tearing his players a new one throughout their drill with the Patriots offensive line. Dante Scarnecchia was at wits' end a few times, but not as loudly as Hamilton.

bullet.gif Talked to former NFL great, and current part owner of the Falcons, Andre Smith. He believes (as Len Pasquarelli mentioned to me as well) that these intersquad practices will be indispensable if the league goes to a 17 or 18-game schedule. Dunn also said he's got a trip to Fenway Park on his bucket list.

bullet.gif One of the nicest plays of the 7-on-7 was Taylor Price running a double move, post-corner and pulling in a timing throw from Brian Hoyer about 25 yards downfield. Low percentage but big gain.

bullet.gif Thomas Williams was at practice in his civvies. Among the Patriots not seen at practice were Leigh Bodden, Tully Banta-Cain, Gary Guyton, Jermaine Cunningham, Damione Lewis, Nick Kaczur and George Bussey.

bullet.gif Dan Klecko is with the Falcons as a fullback and is keeping his fingers crossed this will be a place he sticks.

bullet.gif Derrick Burgess looked outstanding in 1-on-1 drills against Falcons' linemen.

Green Bay in practice

There is great size, strength and power on the defensive line with B. J. Raji, Ryan Pickett and Cullen Jenkins. They will rival the Williams wall in Minnesota as far as a defensive line that is hard to run against.

In the fourth round of April's draft, there was discussion in the Bears draft room about two players. The two were Corey Wootton, a DE from Northwestern, and Geno Atkins, a DT from Georgia. Wootton had a huge junior year and looked like he had a chance to be a first-round pick but then he blew out a knee in Northwestern's bowl game. He had surgery in January 2009 and was back on the field in the fall. He did not have the season in '09 like he had in '08. But after coming back from ACL surgery in eight months that was to be expected.

The Packers  tradition of a "family night" scrimmage is unique in the league. In this metropolitan area of just 300,000 people (by far the smallest NFL market) Lambeau Field drew 47,844 fans on Saturday night for an intra-squad scrimmage! Did I mention there was an "extreme trampoline team" performing, a dance team, high school cheerleaders, Native American dancers from the Oneida Nation and yes, even fireworks—all for a $10 ticket. Not a bad night's entertainment in this day of $400 re-sale tickets and luxury suites. All 47,844 of us had a blast, but that's probably not why you're reading this column.

In my book, there are quarterbacks who are comfortable in their system, and  then there are quarterbacks in command of their system. Aaron Rodgers Aaron Rodgers Fantasy News is in complete command of every aspect of the Packers offense. Peyton Manning Peyton Manning Fantasy News, Drew Brees Drew Brees Fantasy News and Tom Brady Tom Brady Fantasy News are the other quintessential field commanders in the NFL. Some will disagree, but I have Tony Romo Tony Romo Fantasy News, Phillip Rivers and Matt Schaub Matt Schaub Fantasy News as "on the brink."

Think back to the gut-wrenching draft-day slide that Aaron Rodgers Aaron Rodgers Fantasy News had to endure. Now fast-forward to his being in the perfect place at this perfect time, coached to succeed and surrounded with the talent necessary for a Super Bowl run. Credit should be given to Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy, GM Ted Thompson, and Head Coach Mike McCarthy for making the tough decisions necessary to have the Packers poised to reclaim the Lombardi Trophy for Title Town.

Rodgers had a respectable night, completing 9 or 14 passes for 127 yards and a TD. His array of weapons is impressive and growing, but it is his ability to make use of those weapons that has him as the top-rated fantasy QB going into the 2010 season. It also doesn't hurt his fantasy numbers that the Packers  rushed 8 times for a total of 8 yards. Rodgers was in the top-4 QBs in most offensive categories in 2009, and he also rushed for 316 yards and 5 TDs. If he's not in your top 3 QBs heading into your draft, you might want to consider another hobby.

One of the hottest topics this fantasy draft season is 6'5" TE Jermichael Ryan Grant Finley Jermichael Finley Fantasy News, who racked up 55 receptions for 676 yards and 5 TDs in essentially 10 games for the Packers last year. Finley has not only surpassed 8-year veteran Donald Lee Donald Lee Fantasy News on the depth chart, he has buried him. Finley gave the Lambeau faithful something to cheer at the scrimmage, with 4 receptions, 55 yards and a nice TD in very limited play. It's clear his size and athleticism will make Finley the first read on 3rd down and in the red zone.

If he can stay healthy, the Rodgers-to-Finley combination could produce 850 yards and might approach double digit TDs. That's Donald Driver Donald Driver Fantasy News-type yardage, with twice as many TDs. The problem is, fantasy owners know the mismatches he creates for a defense, and Finley is going ahead of other stud TEs in mock drafts. He had great value in 2009, but might be overvalued in 2010. There are other great choices, like Brent Celek Brent Celek Greg Jennings Fantasy News in PHI, Kellen Winslow Kellen Winslow Fantasy News in TB or Vernon Davis Vernon Davis Fantasy News in SF. Personally, I put him just outside of the top tier of TEs, because of his injury risk. There is one reason I might reach for him, and that is if I end up with Rodgers as my QB because of my draft position. It would be akin to having the Manning-to-Clark combination in Indianapolis—not too shabby.

Green Bay drafted TE Andrew Quarless Andrew Quarless Fantasy News (Penn State) in the 5th round. This is one big rook on the practice field. The program says he's an inch shorter than Finley, but I'm not buying it. I stood beside them, and Quarless is taller with a bigger wingspan. He owns the TE record book at Penn State, but Happy Valley isn't the NFL. It's a tough position to learn in McCarthy's system, and dropping a pass in the end zone (uncovered) during the scrimmage won't endear you to Aaron Rodgers Aaron Rodgers Fantasy News or the coaching staff. The Packers might have to carry 3 TEs because of Finley's injury risk, but Donald Lee Donald Lee Fantasy News makes a bunch of money to be a 3rd-string blocking tight end. If I had to guess, I'd say Lee and his salary are gone before week 1, if Quarless can grasp the playbook.

The WR situation remains the same in Green Bay. Stud Greg Jennings Greg Jennings Fantasy News is the top dog, and should hit 1100+ yards and a TD about every other game. Jennings remains a top-10 WR in all formats. Donald Driver Donald Driver Fantasy News  is coming off arthroscopic knee surgery in the off-season, but has resumed light contact in practice. He did not play in this scrimmage. When healthy, owners can count on Double D for 800+ yards and 4-6 TDs. His surgeries (and age) have fantasy owners trying to figure out if James Jones James Jones Fantasy News or Jordy Nelson Jordy Nelson Fantasy News  would benefit the most if Driver is sidelined. Honestly, it's a coin-toss on my board. The scrimmage only muddied my crystal ball further. The Packers  did seem to try to "force" the ball to Jones during the scrimmage, but that may have just been because Nelson was sidelined early.

"Jack Rabbit" Jordy is a highlight waiting to happen, but there is a little black cloud that follows him on game day. In the scrimmage, he made a spectacular (leaping) grab over two defenders for a gain of 27 yards, only to be "dinged" and sit the rest of the evening with a right-side contusion following a decent hit. Jones will be remembered Saturday night for catching a TD wide of the end zone, and being stripped of a reception at the goal line by 2nd-team DBs. Both have looked good on the practice field, but Nelson hasn't stepped-up yet and Jones remains inconsistent. So who benefits if Driver goes down? Jermichael Finley Jermichael Finley Fantasy News, of course! Seriously, it's RBC (receptions by committee) in GB after Jennings and Finley. Rodgers will post huge numbers, but reception totals will be divided-up all over the roster.

After last season, the two biggest needs in Buffalo on offense were left tackle and quarterback. Those needs were not addressed during the offseason and after a week of training camp it looks as if it could still be a problem. In Trent Edwards, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Brian Brohm, the Bills do not have a legitimate NFL starting QB. The same can be said for Demetrius Bell at left tackle. The QB group and Bell will all be looked at very closely during the preseason. If they don't show drastic improvement, the Bills will go into next offseason with the same two glaring needs.

I'm glad to see Kyle Orton breaking away from the pack in Denver. For some reason coaches always want to replace Orton but he finds a way to battle back and keep his job. While he was in Chicago he showed us that he was a winner and a class act. He is well-liked and respected by teammates and becomes a stronger leader every year. His work ethic is unquestioned.

Oakland Raiders number one receiver

However if you look closely you will notice that many writers will say...provided Chaz Schilens stays healthy, or if Darren McFadden stays healthy.

The Oakland Raiders have looked much improved recently. In fact, since the release of JaMarcus Russell and the addition of Jason Campbell, this team looks spectacular.

But in all reality, the team needs to look at the talent that has been stable. Lately there has been alot of talk about what a healthy Schilens can do for the Raiders offensively. Yet, recently in practice he was sidelined because of the "glass slipper". In fact he didn't play much last season because of his foot.

I would have to say that Louis Murphy, who remained healthy last season, will be the Oakland Raiders number one receiver. I am basing this off his play from last season.

Secondly is RB  Darren McFadden. McFadden was signed to do a whole lot more than what he has done. In fact, this will be his year to prove the naysayers wrong. Yet in most articles written, there the saying "If he can stay healthy".

Last season Darren McFadden was hurt and Michael Bush, who remained healthy, was able to show his strengths. Bush is a solid RB!

I believe that Bush will be the primary Raider RB. McFadden will really have to prove himself this season and stay healthy. McFadden has great catching ability and should have opportunities this season but for my money I'm relying on the proven running skills of Bush.

The Oakland Raiders have had players that worked hard all last season and stayed healthy i.e. Higgins, Huff, Branch, Asomugha, Seymour, Bush,etc. These players showed the glimmer of brightness that still shines in Oakland. Yet for the Raiders to be successful and make the playoffs we need players that are not injury prone. The Raiders need players who play smart.

Chaz Schilens and McFadden have this season to show what they were drafted for and thats to win games. To do that they need to remain healthy and play every weekend. The Raiders have a great shot at a title run in 2010 but as I've mentioned prior, all the players need to be on the gridiron and they need to punish opponents.

Darren McFadden and Michael Bush  both come into camp as pretty good running backs, but neither having established himself as the unquestioned starter. For the third training camp in a row.

The only difference this year is you don't have Justin Fargas complicating the mix. Fargas is currently not with any team.

A lot of things make Brian Dawkins one of the NFL's top safeties

Rookie quarterback Tim Tebow had an up-and-down practice. Trying to dodge pressure, Tebow lost the ball in traffic and linebacker Mario Haggan  snagged it as it bounced off his arm, returning the fumble for a TD. Later in team drills, Tebow brought the training camp crowd to its feet by using his legs. He avoided the pass rush and scrambled up the middle, breaking into the clear and leaving gasping defenders in his wake en route to a long touchdown run. Meanwhile, Tebow finished second in the first post-practice sprint to linebacker Jammie Kirlew. But Tebow, who has been regularly leading the pack, didn't let Kirlew get the jump on him again, leading the way for the rest of the team's sprints.

A lot of things make Brian Dawkins  one of the NFL's top safeties: his physical skills, football savvy, years of experience and the ability to give - and take - punishing hits. I saw another one of those qualities on display Tuesday at the first of the Broncos' two training camp practices, a willingness to own up to his mistakes and the willingness to learn from them. After Brian Dawkins dropped a sure interception of Kyle Orton  during team drills, he dropped to the ground and reeled off about 10 push-ups, punishing himself for his miscue. I thought to myself, here's a player that cares about the way he plays the game and how well he plays the game. Afterward, I asked him if he still gets mad at himself over mistakes like that. Here's what he said: "Absolutely! That was a touchdown, a possession-changer. I pick the ball and take it to the house, we're up seven points. I dropped it. I need to make sure I make those plays."

Star cornerback Champ Bailey gave the Broncos' top draft pick, wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, a reminder that he's not in college any more. Thomas seemingly had a catch made at the end of a hitch pattern. But before Thomas could tuck the ball away, Bailey reached in with his hands and knocked the ball out of Thomas' grasp. Said the veteran to the newcomer: Take that, 'rook.

Josina Anderson of Fox31 is reporting that free agent RB Ladell Betts is traveling to Denver and will work out for the Broncos on Wednesday.  Anderson also said that Betts is planning to visit the Saints on Thursday.

Betts spent his first 8 seasons with the Washington Redskins, where he rushed for 3,176 yards, averaging 4.1 yards per carry.  Betts' best season came in 2006 when he rushed for 1,154 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Betts only played in 11 games for the Redskins in 2009, having his best game - 26 carries, 114 yards and a touchdown - against the Broncos in Week 10.

While Tebowmaniacs line the Denver Broncos' practice fields hoping to catch a glimpse of quarterback Tim Tebow's transformation, they're missing the metamorphosis of another former Florida Gator right before their eyes.

A year ago, pass-rusher Jarvis Moss walked out of training camp so bedeviled by personal problems that he wondered whether he should walk away from football altogether.

He returned three days later but had another forgettable season, recording no sacks, no tackles and one pass break-up while playing in just seven games.

Moss said he needed the respite last summer to clear his head Brian Dawkins and help him rediscover his passion.

"There was a lot of stuff on my plate last year. A lot of stuff that wasn't just football. A lot of stuff built up on me," he said. "I had to sit down, take a deep look at myself and realize this is what I am — I'm a football player. This is what I love to do. ... It's serious now."

Now, Moss looks nothing like that undersized, overwhelmed player who nearly walked away from football forever. He's added muscle and appears both stronger and more focused at practice. So winded was he after one workout this week that he did interviews with his hands on his knees, sweat streaming off his face.

"No, I don't need to vomit," he said, straightening up.

His teammates and his coaches are raving about this new Jarvis Moss.

"He's looking good," NFL sacks king Elvis Dumervil said Tuesday. "He's working. He's making fewer mistakes and his energy level is high. He seems more focused."

Moss said he's finally figured things out in his fourth season and worked relentlessly over the spring and summer to put it all on display.

Seahawks LB Curry remains out with concussion

Seahawks starting linebacker Aaron Curry will likely remain out until at least Thursday because of a concussion he sustained on the opening day of training camp last weekend.

Seattle's fourth overall pick in the 2009 missed his third consecutive practice Monday evening, but coach Pete Carroll said he was much better.

Asked if Curry had a concussion, Carroll said, "Yeah, he got hit the other day in the head and we rested him. He's OK.

"With one practice (Tuesday, then a day off from practice Wednesday) we'll cruise him through until Thursday, but he's just about ready to pop back out there, so that's good. Good signs."

Besides Monday's two practices, Curry also missed Sunday's more intense, full-pads drills.

Team doctor Stan Herring, considered an expert in brain trauma, was seen at team headquarters between practices Monday.

Herring, the co-medical director of the Seattle Sports Concussion Program, led a crusade to get a new concussion law passed in Washington state that sets out conditions for how head injuries are to be dealt with in youth sports.

Saturday, Aaron Curry repeatedly banged his head into running back Justin Forsett and other teammates in a particularly spirited first day of camp.

Carroll said Sunday his $34 million linebacker got "dinged a little bit" and had some headaches.

The NFL's awareness of concussions and brain injuries is increasing. The league is placing posters in team headquarters that warns of the dangers from concussions in much harsher language than previously used in a pamphlet distributed to players from 2007 through last season.

The league's steps last season included stricter return-to-play guidelines detailing what symptoms preclude someone from participating in games or practices; a mandate that each team select a league- and union-approved independent neurologist to be consulted when players get concussions; and the departure of the two co-chairmen of the NFL's committee on brain trauma.

Seventh-round draft choice Jameson Konz was waived-injured. Carroll said the tight end from Kent State had a hip condition. ... Veteran S Jordan Babineaux is fighting for a job, but he remains a fan favorite. A fan kept yelling "Babs!" while the seventh-year veteran was on the sidelines, and Babineaux recognized the man when he turned around. After defending an errant pass that skidded through the sidelines a few minutes later, Babineaux picked up the ball and lobbed it into the nearby hillside where the mass of fans were, instead of handing it to a waiting team assistant.

Vikings defensive tackle Pat and Kevin Williams

Kevin Williams was nominated by Sheriff Pat Perez and Elgin Police Department Elderly Service Officer Cherie Aschenbrenner. In the nomination letters, Williams was recognized for his dedication to the elderly residents of the community. Williams has given more than 100 presentations to more than 4,400 seniors. He and Aschenbrenner were presenters at the National Association of TRIADS conference held in Orlando, Fla., in 2009.

Williams said he is proud to accept the recognition, but stressed that Percy Harvin it is the efforts of all those involved with TRIAD that has made the program a success.

TRIAD has chapters here and throughout the United States. It is composed of three national organizations: AARP, the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the National Sheriffs Association. The three have joined together to form a national coalition to help provide information and protective services to the elderly.

During the neverending StarCaps litigation, which arose after Vikings defensive tackle Pat and Kevin Williams  tested positive for an over-the-counter weight-loss supplement containing a prescription diuretic that also happens to be a banned substance, multiple references were made to the reality that other players previously had tested positive for Bumetanide, that they had explained they'd taken StarCaps, and that they had received no punishment whatsoever.

Brian Murphy of the St. Paul Pioneer Press recently named some names, thanks to deposition testimony that inexplicably was not properly safeguarded by the lawyers to prevent the names from being disclosed.

The players who tested positive before the league opted to crack down on StarCaps users were cornerback Nate Clements, guard Damien Woody, tackle Vernon Carey, tackle Damion McIntosh, defensive end Marquise Hill (who accidentally drowned in May 2007), receiver Jonathan Smith, fullback Damion Shelton, and fullback Patrick Pass.

Frankly, we're amazed by the fact that the names got out.  The easy solution would Percy Harvin have been to keep the names out of the testimony, for example by using a simple code (e.g., Player A, Player B), the key to which would have been kept closely guarded by the lawyers.

Celebrated backyard of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

As he often does with frightening precision, Crosby pretty much nailed the whole reason for Tuesday, for Jan. 1, 2011, and for the previous three National Hockey League versions of New Year's Day, which is to take two hockey teams and bang them together on an outdoor rink.

It's fun that drives the Winter Classic, and no one is having more fun than the NHL brand developers, who last season fielded more than 307,000 ticket requests for the 38,112 splintery seats in Boston's Fenway Park. The coming Pittsburgh winter brings the event to Heinz Field, were ticket requests will be easier to fill in the celebrated backyard of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

"We're very excited," Art Rooney II told a midday news conference right there on his lawn, "about seeing an ice rink built out here in the middle of December."

Again, I am awake, right?

This is the same place where a descendant pig bladder James Harrison once stuck in the mud like a lawn dart, right?

"Well," Rooney said, "we did have to think long and hard about it."

No real worries, though. The Steelers will have at least a week to get the surface back to standard before the NFL playoffs start.

Either that or at least a year.

But the skepticism that was overcome to land the Winter Classic in Pittsburgh came not just from the football team, but once had deeper roots in the hierarchy of the Washington Capitals, who'll be the Penguins' Jan. 1 opponent.

Dick Patrick, the Capitals' chief operating officer and the cousin of former Penguins general manager Craig Patrick, explained some of that sentiment.

"How you are going to feel," he said, pointing toward the farthest section of the Heinz Field heavens, "if you're sitting up there in 541 freezing your ass off? I was always thinking about worst-case scenarios. What are we subjecting our fans to and what about the players? What if it rains?

"But my skepticism was misplaced. It's turned into a great event that the players and the fans really enjoy."

Patrick's skepticism might be misplaced, but mine's still right there in my wallet next to my library card. Commissioner Gary Bettman, among the officials wearing dark suits and ties in the blazing sun, explained that this is the event that returns hockey to its roots.

I guess there's something to be said for that because I know a lot of North Americans, especially northern North Americans, grow up thinking hockey is meant to be played on outdoor rinks, in the cold, in the snow, in the wind, and, of course, should the opportunity arise, in a 65,000-seat football stadium.

"When I was playing," said Patrick, "I was always hoping to make LaMarr Woodley a team that was good enough to play inside."

As it happens, Bettman was right to gamble on this idea in Buffalo three years ago, when the Penguins won the first Winter Classic on Crosby's shootout goal. Just as right were Penguins president David Morehouse and Mayor Luke Penguinstahl, who together recognized an urgency to bring it to Pittsburgh in the near term.

Now Forbes Magazine has called the NHL's Winter Classic the best new sporting event of the past decade, which sounds suspiciously like one of those marginal Grammy categories -- best new Norwegian salsa artist -- but let's not quibble.

The new Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys might not know until late in training camp whether quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's suspension will be reduced from six to four games by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

Goodell plans to visit the Steelers' camp on Aug. 5, but the James Farrior stop is not specifically related to Roethlisberger's suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy.

Steelers president Art Rooney II doesn't know when Goodell might make a final determination about Roethlisberger, but he believes it won't be early in camp.

San Diego Chargers' stranglehold on the AFC West

Dez Bryant was more than on time for the start of the Dallas Cowboys training camp. The first-round pick was the first player on the field Saturday.

"I'm just ready to play, that's the message," Bryant said. "I'm ready to do whatever they ask me to do. I'm here to work hard, I'm here to give 100 per cent, just bring my A-game."

There was major flooding this week in Wisconsin, a state where Brett Favre used to ply his trade.

It was getting pretty deep once again in Mississippi, too, in what has now become an annual rite of summer. The drama queen of the South was giving interviews and accepting selected visitors, including one who for some reason still wants to coach him this season.

 Kaye Cowher, the wife of ex-Steelers coach Bill Cowher and a former basketball player at North Carolina State and in the now-defunct Women's Professional Basketball League, has died of skin cancer. She was 54.

Cowher died Friday in her native North Carolina, where the family relocated at her urging during Cowher's final year as coach in 2006, one season after the Steelers won the Super Bowl. The family had lived since in Raleigh.

Sixth-round draft pick Eric Olsen has signed with the Denver Broncos.

The 6-foot-3, 305-pound offensive lineman started 31 games for Notre Dame, playing all three interior line positions.

 Jets centre Nick Mangold says he will report for training camp with the rest of the team next weekend despite not having a new contract in place.

Mangold tells the NFL Network on Friday night that it wouldn't do him any good to hold out, so "I'll be there with bells on."

MIAMI - The Miami Dolphins moved quickly to find a replacement for injured defensive end Phillip Merling.

Follow the dollar signs in recent months. If the Broncos finally overtake the San Diego Chargers' stranglehold on the AFC West, the difference may well be the almighty dollar.

The Broncos, who moved into their mostly taxpayer- funded Invesco Field at Mile High nine years ago, have been the NFL's most aggressive team in free agency the past two years and recently committed $89.5 million to satisfy two of their own restricted free agents, guard Chris Kuper and sack king Elvis Dumervil.

Meanwhile, the Chargers jerseys have been unable to persuade their taxpayers and politicians to help fund a new venue. Stuck in outdated Qualcomm Stadium, where the revenues trickle in compared with what pours out of Invesco, the Chargers have lost more talent than they've gained through free agency. And they may lose starting receiver Vincent Jackson and offensive tackle Marcus McNeill because the team won't give long-term contracts to restricted free agents.

Here's the AFC West stat of the century: From 2004 — when the Chargers football jerseys division dynasty began — through 2009, the Broncos, according to Forbes, have generated $1.27 billion in revenue. That's $108 million more than the Kansas City Chiefs, $162 million more than the Oakland Raiders and $164 million more than San Diego.

When you consider that the Chargers, Raiders and Chiefs all play in older stadiums, the Broncos' decisive revenue advantage in the AFC West has made their decade-long run of mediocrity even more infuriating.

And so Mike Shanahan has moved to Washington.

There are a few reasons why the Chargers have captured four consecutive Darren Sproles AFC West titles and five of the past six despite their distinction as the division's least-funded team.

One, despite the impending labor battle that threatens to shut down the game next season, the NFL salary cap system largely works. In 2009, the Chargers' payroll was $115.3 million compared with $111.5 million for the Raiders, the Broncos' $102 million and the Chiefs' $83.1 million.

Let's pause to allow Broncos season-ticket holders who pay up to $110 a game Antonio Gates for a lower-bowl seat to stew. Why, Mr. Bowlen, is a team that led the division in revenues only third in payroll?

A partial explanation is that for all those extra revenues the Broncos have drawn, they have also incurred significant stadium debt. They are responsible for 25 percent of $364 million in construction costs and nearly 100 percent of operating costs.

The nicer the house, the higher the bills.

The Broncos' disproportionate payroll also leads to reason No. 2 why they have only one division title the past 11 years: It's not how much money you have but how you spend it. The Broncos led the NFL last season with $29.6 million in dead money (salary to players no longer on the team).

Add the dead money into active dollars and the Broncos' payroll would have exceeded the $128 million cap last year.

This season, for the first time since Denver taxpayers went along with Bowlen's plea, dollars could more closely correlate with success.

Philadelphia Eagles focuses on Christina Lurie

Is the confidence in Kolb justified? Will Philadelphia's receiving corps round into the NFL's best? Can the team field a healthy, reliable center? The Eagles have been hurting at safety since letting  Brian Dawkins go. Is rookie Nate Allen ready to make an impact? How will the return of Stewart Bradley help stabilize the defense at linebacker?

The latest installment in the Philadelphia Inquirer's series examining the people who run the new Philadelphia Eagles jerseys focuses on Christina Lurie, the wife of owner Jeffrey Lurie. And it reveals an interesting detail about the one time Christina Lurie had some say on a football decision.

The Inquirer story details all the ways Christina Lurie is involved in the Eagles, portraying her as someone who cares deeply about the team but who views her role as separate from the jobs of the players and coaches. But the paper reports that there was one exception to that, one time in the 17 years the Luries have owned the team, when Christina Lurie did have say in a football decision: The decision to sign Michael Vick.

According to the Inquirer, the Vick signing was the exception to Christina Lurie's policy of having no say in football decisions, because the signing of Vick, who had recently been released from prison, had social ramifications. And how the Eagles are perceived by the community is important to Christina Lurie.

Maybe Reid and the front office don't deserve to be draped in praise. It's not like every personnel decision they've made has been right. Take Michael Vick. The Eagles took the P.R. hit and signed the once-electrifying star, giving him a back-loaded two-year contract. Vick was a shell of his former self last season – maybe even a shell of a shell. When the off-season rolled around, the Eagles shopped him hard. But no team was willing to trade a mid-round pick for a rusty, controversial quarterback with a $3.75 million base salary. Thus, the Eagles settled on Vick as their backup in 2010, then saw his name associated with a Virginia nightclub shooting in late June. As free-agent signings go, this one classifies somewhere around "disastrous."

But enough about Vick – if he remains with the team, Asante Samuel he'll be little more than a Wildcat novelty. This offense hinges on the development of Kevin Kolb. His  accuracy but average arm strength suggest that coordinator Marty Mornhinweg will run a more traditional West Coast scheme in 2010. Kolb couldn't ask for better resources to throw to. DeSean Jackson has emerged as one of the premier big-play weapons in the game  – if not the premier big-play weapon. His eight touchdowns of 50 yards or longer last season tied an N.F.L. record. Jackson is not just a vertical threat; he's capable of running virtually the entire route tree and moving the chains underneath. But it's his sheer speed that makes him so valuable (speaking of value, last November Jackson hired Drew Rosenhaus to help him get a new contract; expect a deal after this season).

Jackson lifts coverages on a regular basis. This sets up one-on-one matchups for Jeremy Maclin and allows tight end Brent Celek to operate against linebackers. Maclin is a future star with a skill set similar to Jackson's, but he must get tougher. Celek has modest speed but capitalizes on favorable matchups. Thick-framed slot receiver Jason Avant also exploits matchup problems, particularly over the middle.

The Eagles will try to get No. 4 receiver Hank Baskett (6'4", 220) involved in the passing game, as well as tight end Cornelius Ingram. However, fifth-round rookie Riley Cooper, who is essentially Baskett with more speed, could steal snaps. The athletic Ingram missed his senior season at Florida with a torn left ACL, and then missed his '09 rookie season after re-tearing the ACL. If he's unable to hold up,  receiving specialist Martin Rucker or fourth-round rookie Clay Harbor will get a shot.

For years, Brian Westbrook was an integral part of the passing attack. LeSean McCoy doesn't quite have the versatility to fill Westbrook's cleats, but  he is soft-handed and adroit in the flats. McCoy must continue to improve as a blocker.

With the inexperienced Kolb under center and McCoy having a decent burst running between the tackles, the Eagles should be more committed to the ground game in 2010. They were the only team to sign a restricted free agent this off-season, landing  New Orleans goal-line runner Mike Bell with a one-year, $1.7 million deal. Bell is an excellent No. 2 rusher, though in two-tight end, one-back formations, expect Philly to continue featuring fullback Leonard Weaver. The '09 Pro Bowler has  light feet  for a 250-pounder.

The inconsistency of the front five dumps cold water on this talented young offense. Left tackle Jason Peters received honors last season, but that was strictly due to name recognition and fat paychecks. In reality, Peters was one of the worst blind side guardians in the game. He has boundless talent but must  polish his fundamentals.

Left guard Todd Herremans has great size (6'6", 321) and adequate short-range mobility, but he hasn't fully regained his pre-injury form of 2007. Center Jamaal Jackson tore his ACL in December and may not be available until Halloween (if at all). Filling in for Jackson will be guard Nick Cole.

Right guard Stacy Andrews took a pay cut to remain with the club. The Eagles are hoping he's now completely over his knee problems and more comfortable with offensive line coach Juan Castillo's blocking techniques. If he's not, Max Jean-Gilles – who is 50 pounds slimmer after gastric lap-band surgery – will get a look. Right tackle Winston Justice has blossomed into the team's most consistent blocker.

Eagles organization is unwilling to be flexible

As de facto head of football operations, however, Andy Reid was seen by most fans as the Asante Samuel  one to decide which players would be signed, drafted, or cut.  In this regard, Reid has been lambasted for his moves of cutting older veterans who were fan favorites.

Banner's main role, supposedly, was to help Reid build his roster in a cap friendly manner.

Now, though, it appears that Reid has lost some of the juice he had in decision making. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, members within the organization feel that Banner has become "the boss" and recent decisions were more of his choosing (as well as Banner protégé GM Howie Roseman) than Reid's.

If this is the case, fans should be worrying about the qualifications of Banner and Roseman.

Reid, although a terrible game-day coach, is one of the best personnel guys in the business. He has to be, because the Eagles jerseys organization is unwilling to be flexible in accordance to issues with the salary cap.

He knows when to let people go. Everyone who fretted the losses of Bobby Taylor, Troy Vincent, Hugh Douglas, and others, soon forgot those names as they entered the twilight of their careers.

Reid knew that he had drafted the proper replacements to continue the success of his system. Obviously, he has not been perfect with his selections (i.e. Jerome McDougal, Freddie Mitchell), but overall he can be seen as someone who knows how to put together a roster.

Banner, on the other hand, has been both detrimental and helpful to the roster. His quest to win the salary cap championship every year ruined any chance for Donovan McNabb to succeed during the prime of his career.

Instead of drafting impact skill position players, Reid was forced to draft for the future, knowing that his star players were going into their mid-30s and they weren't going to keep them anyway

Nico was a huge soccer fan. He played varsity soccer. He played all through school... high school," explained Nico's mother, Audrey Berg Clothier.

16-year-old Nico Clothier of Haverford was a soccer standout until an accident last fall that permanently sidelined him. DeSean Jackson Jumping into a pile of leaves while on a community service trip, Nico suffered a serious neck injury, then a stroke. Today, he is quadriplegic. He cannot play soccer anymore... but he can still cheer.

"Oh it was great. I loved watching them practice," said Nico.

Today, at the invitation of the Philadelphia Eagles, Nico got to watch one of soccer's most stored teams practice. Manchester United was in town to take on the Philadelphia Union in a game Wednesday night. Organized by the Make a Wish Foundation, Nico was able to go where most fans of the sport can only dream. In fact, he had dreamed about this moment many times, only not quite this way.

"I didn't think I'd get that close, until I joined them," said Nico.

But this surprise wasn't all the Eagles had in store. For this avid soccer fan, whose wheelchair can't contain his smile, they had something even "suiter".

Eagles COO Don Smolenski told Nico, "Wednesday night. Your family, your friends... we're going to provide you with a suite at our cost. We'll entertain you, and host you for a great event."

A great event for what everyone describes as a great kid. He may be paralyzed, but his heart still ticks for this team... which Wednesday night play for him.

"It's tremendous!" said Audrey. "It's certainly, you know, we never expected anything like this. This was really just a lovely, lovely, lovely surprise."

Even though Owens was the team's best receiving threat in the 2004 season, it still didn't help his situation when the subject of a new contract arose—in fact, his antics put a void stamp on all his success with the Eagles.

That is why the Eagles new standout WR DeSean Jackson's silence is extremely important.

It is also vital that he says all the proper things when being interviewed—which to date he has done a stand up job at doing.

DeSean knows the Eagles would be crazy not to extend his contract long term, but he also realizes now is not the right time to even hint of demanding more money.

Jackson is also fully aware that because he wouldn't exceed a thirty percent increase due to the ongoing CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement) negotiations, he might as well stay silent and prove his value on the field.

He also realizes that if he has two consecutive seasons of excellence, after having a jaw dropping sophomore season with the Eagles, it will sky rocket his stock value.

If he would somehow get overlooked for the 2010 Pro Bowl but manages to increase his production, that demands more money without having to say a single word.

Even if he simply mirrors his 2009 success, wouldn't you say, "Yep, this kid is more than worth it?"

DeSean has gone about his business as a true professional even with all the talk about the possibility that his counterpart Jeremy Maclin becoming the No. 1 threat, he's graciously done everything the Eagles organization has asked of him.

Philadelphia Eagles had acquired DT Trevor Laws

In his final year at college in 2007, Laws led Notre Dame in sacks with four and tackles with 112—both were career highs for him, so the Eagles football jerseys front office had every reason to believe they were acquiring a quality player.

For his career at Notre Dame, Laws appeared in 49 games (25 starts) registering 224 tackles (22.5 for a loss), 10 sacks, two forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries.

Top that off with one interception and six blocked kicks, and you can see why the Eagles used a second round pick on him.

Standing at 6'1", 304 lbs, fans believed they were getting a force to be reckoned with, if for nothing else, as a sure thing for quality depth across the position.

Unfortunately for the Eagles and the fans, Laws hasn't panned out they Jeremy Maclin way he was expected. He's failed to show a bounce back from the injury (quad contusion) he suffered in the second quarter of the Eagles-Cowboys game in 2008.

Since being drafted, he has played in 27 games, accumulating just 28 tackles. 2009 proved to be an even more destructive year to his ego as he recorded only 12 tackles in 11 games.

Not nearly what everyone was expecting, right?

It is for this reason that he is quickly becoming known as a bust in the City  DeSean Jackson of Brotherly Love. Now, if he wishes to remain an Eagle, he must prove to be more talented than Antonio Dixon and rookie Jeff Owens.

Right now, I would say both Dixon and Owens are ahead of Laws on the depth chart, so it Asante Samuel is going to take an impressively strong showing at training camp this year.

According to the lawsuit in federal bankruptcy court, which has been obtained by Fox 29, Vick gave money and gifts to his closest relatives when Vick knew he'd have to repay other debts.

Vick is not a defendant in the lawsuit. But the nature of the lawsuit is to seek the recovery of money and property due to "fraudulent transfer."

Vick's own bankpuptcy trustee, Joseph Luzinski, has sued eight people, including Vick's former assistant, Charles Reamon; Brenda Boddie (Vick's mother); Kijafra Frink (Vick's finacee) and Marcus Vick (his brother).

The gifts and financial transfers were made by Vick or Charles Reamon, or in account funded by Vick in Reamon's name.

"The debtor intended to place his assets at the disposal of the defendants for their support and enjoyment without consideration and in derogation of the rights to his creditors," the suit says.

Luzinski also claims Vick knew he couldn't repay his debts when he made the transfers.

Unga, BYU's all-time leading rusher, was selected by the Chicago Bears with the 12th pick in the seventh round . The Eagles pick in the seventh round was after the Bears, so I have no idea whether they put a bid in for Unga. But it also means the Birds thought little enough of Unga to not give up their sixth-round pick in the 2011 draft to select him.

Reid has been very open about his love of drafting/signing fellow Cougars. Since his arrival he has drafted or signed Reno Mahe, Scott Young, Justin Ena, Lee Johnson, and Dallas Reynolds

Pittsburgh Steelers could prove to be false

NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reported that re-signing the Lawrence Timmons linebacker is in fact a top priority for the team.

La Canfora (via PFT) unequivocally stated that he can envision "no scenario where Woodley is not" a member of the Steelers in 2011.

If a deal is not reached before the end of the season, the Steelers could place the franchise tag on him. Regardless, he isn't going anywhere.

The Saginaw News agreed with La Canfora's report, but has a new Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys slightly different time table in mind.

The newspaper believes the team won't sign Woodley until a new CBA is in place, at which point he'll receive a multi-year contract.

Both reports are in direct contrast to a recent report from ESPN's James Walker who stated Woodley will become a free agent next season who will test the waters.

However, Dublin police said they didn't issue any citations after investigating the alleged incident, the Trib reported. The female property owner didn't want to press charges.

Roethlisberger was not the person seen urinating Thursday afternoon between the James Harrison  17th and 18th, holes and the country club agreed to handle the matter by reminding members to use restrooms, according to the police.

An earlier report on ProFootballTalk.com suggested Roethlisberger might have been the culprit, but that appears to not have been the case.

A source close to Roethlisberger confirmed with the site that he was golfing in Columbus but that it wasn't the QB who urinated under a tree, rather another in the group.

 

Tomlin was heading into his final "Guaranteed" year under his former contract, Jeff Reed which included a optional clause that would have kept him in Pittsburgh through 2011/2012 season. Tomlin's three year deal is tacked onto the one year that was left on his former contact. Which, means Tomlin is in Pittsburgh for four more years unless the Steelers decide to let Tomlin go.  Tomlin's new deal comes at a time where it should help calm the Steeler's locker room and Steeler's fans. Knowing that their head coach is here to stay after the Roethlisberger term-oil and not making the playoffs last season will help restore stability and leadership to the locker room. Which, is a key to getting the players focused on a seventh Superbowl.

A scary thought with Santana Moss and Chris Cooley

While not campaigning for T.O., Baltimore Raven wide out Derrick Mason stated "Looking at him, you can see he's in great shape, that he can still fare well and produce numbers. But now he's been treated like a scapegoat for what's happened in Buffalo: it's unfair...He can still be an asset for some contending team." This is where Terrell recently made comments about the media going out of their way to insure his unemployment.
How would Terrell fare in Washington? As reported by Dan Steinberg of The Washington Post, T.O. remains open to the idea. "Well you know what? Definitely that's something that was on the radar, and if that's a possibility and they want to bring me in and make that happen, then I'm open arms to it."

Terrell with McNabb, a scary thought, with Santana Moss and Chris Cooley. After that, the receiving core are a lot of great potentials, but not number ones or number two receivers. I have to believe Washington has the willingness to make another big trade or two yet this offseason, and I fully expect them to get a good player yet, but I can't help but feel that getting Westbrook is their number one criteria.
Has Mr. Owens pleaded with a team as to his intentions of simply being a hard worker and getting the job done, without distraction?

 

Drew Brees led them all last year, so what are the rankings for the top 20 fantasy quarterbacks?

Depending on your league, quarterbacks can be the most important player or just team managers.

This list has a huge separation from the bottom to the top, but this is compiled with the top options at quarterback to help your fantasy football teams. If you play in dynasty leagues pay close attention to the bottom half.

The former LSU product finished 2009 with back-to-back starts at safety for the Chicago Bears

 The Detroit Lions waived the 6-foot-6, 300-pound second-year player on Tuesday.

Barton played in one game for the new  Chicago Bears jerseys in 2008 after they drafted him in the seventh round out of Ohio State. He has also spent time with the Dolphins, 49ers and Bengals.

Barton was an All-Big Ten first-team selection his senior season in 2007 after starting all 26 games at right tackle for the Buckeyes during his final two years in college.

"I finished the season starting against the Vikings and the Lions," Steltz said. "I just got to continue to build on that. I got to use that playing experience and to take it day by day."

The 24-year-old safety is in town again for Jacob Hester's football camp at Calvary. Steltz has attended both years of his former teammate's camp. The three-day event finishes today.

"It's awesome to have Craig back here," Hester said. "All the kids recognize him with his long hair. They can point him out anywhere. Hopefully we can have a long relationship and keep going to each other's camps. He's the same point I'm at. We're both going into our third year."

Steltz moved into a starting role when the Bears suffered injuries in their defensive backfield late last season. Steltz, a 6-foot-1, 210-pound safety had five tackles and an assist in a 36-30 overtime win over Minnesota on Dec. 28 and two tackles in a 37-23 win over Detroit on Jan. 3.

This season he is eyeing the starting strong safety job. The team could also use him at free safety. Steltz has 26 solo tackles and three assists in 23 games.

"It's going to be a battle in training camp for the two starting jobs," Steltz said. "I just got to go out there and continue to compete. You got to go out there and prove yourself every year. You continue to work out. It's nothing different than last year. You try to learn from the guys in front of you that's played six or seven years. What got them to that point? Whether it's working out or working with the defense, you got to make sure you know everything."

Landing a starting gig isn't Steltz's only goal. He wants to see Chicago back in the playoffs. The Bears, who will sport a speedier offense with new offensive coordinator in Mike Martz this season, are in a three-year playoff drought.

"We've hired a couple new offensive coaches and we have a defense that's coming together," Stelt

Dallas Cowboys Player

"I just think he was being silly and making fun of the whole situation," Pam Batman, who was visiting Cowboys football jerseys  Stadium from Alabama, said.

Khris Pruitt watched the video in disbelief. The Arlington resident says he once played flag football with Bennett.

"When people look at the video, especially the kids who look up to him as a role model they may decide that they need to chose someone else."

Bennett's YouTube posts have prompted backlash before. Last season, he was fined a game check, about $22,000, for posting a profanity-laced rap video, while wearing a Cowboys jerseys helmet. He was also criticized for posting the "black olympics". In the video, Bennett and his brother eat watermelon and fried chicken.

"It is just a couple of guys having fun and posting video to YouTube, which is no different from a 14-year old doing it, except that Bennett is higher profile," Andrew Batman, said.

But, while some are ready to dismiss the Osama impersonation as just silliness, Tina Estes is not.

The singer, who split up with Nick Lachey in 2006 and dated with new Dallas Cowboys  jerseys star Tony Romo for two years, is dipping back into the NFL dating pool, seeing former San Francisco 49ers tight end Eric Johnson.

Johnson filed for divorce from his wife in February of this year, and he and Jessica have been together since May.

"It's true," a source close to Simpson confirms the news.

"She is happy that she found a great guy. She's really happy."

Something about New York Jets

It's over," he said of his time playing in Southern California. "That was kinda, for me, closing that chapter of my career in San Diego. Kinda like it's dead and a new birth is being born with the Jets logo being put on my other calf."

The fifth overall pick in the 2001 draft, Tomlinson was cut by the Chargers in February after posting his worst statistical season as a professional. But Tomlinson was quick to point out he hasn't conceded the Jets starting job to second-year back Shonn Greene.

New York Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie gave the team (Bart Scott) quite a scare on Monday when rumors surfaced that he was suffering from a lingering hip issue.

However, Cromartie's agent Gary Wichard claimed that there was no lingering issues from a cracked hip he suffered in 2008. In fact, that was his right hip. It was his left hip that kept him out of minicamp for a few days.

"His hamstring was fatigued and his hip was fatigued," Wichard told Manish Mehta of the NY Daily News. "It wasn't a big deal. At the end of the day, it was not the same hip that was hurt two years ago. It's a nonissue. It was nothing. It's typical training fatigue. He's fine."

 

New York Jets running back LaDainian Tomlinson is newly inked and ready for green and white glory.

Wall raises D.C. fan's hopes, fears

Here comes John Wall. He seems nice. Great dancer. Bright future written all over him. He could be the one. Or maybe that's Stephen Strasburg. Short of plugging the Gulf oil spill by diverting a Beltway traffic jam, the pitching phenom couldn't make a better first impression in the capital. And what about Alex Ovechkin? He's fun, exciting, just a bit of a bad boy, makes for a great night out. Then there are Donovan McNabb and Mike Shanahan -- both men a little older, sure, but established and reliable suitors, successful guys with proven track records.

Athletically secure, so to speak.

Heck, maybe they're all the ones. Maybe I'm looking at an embarrassment of riches, a sports fan buyer's market, with a half-dozen fulfilling relationships to choose from. Maybe I don't have to spend any more nights alone, curled up with a Bruce Smith Sack King T-shirt, tormented by a Kwame Brown bobblehead, suppressing traumatic memories of the Non-Brothers Jim (Zorn and Bowden), wondering why the word "Nationals" just has to be spelled with a stupid "O." Maybe I can cease placing ISO RIGGO personal ads and stop feeling so darn empty -- guilty, even -- for spending a couple of cheap evenings with the Washington Kastles, World Team Tennis' 2009 champions.

Like I said: I really want to believe.

I want to believe that things are getting better. That redemption is a No. 1 NBA draft pick away. That the mistakes and missteps of the past -- No. 26: everything Steve Spurrier that didn't happen in Osaka, Japan; No. 147: getting rid of tragically misunderstood Bullets mascot Hoops -- are just that. Buried in the past. Alongside Freddy Adu's D.C. United jersey. Only as a local fan, I've seen too much, for too long, to jump on the we're back! bandwagon.

We're not back. Can't be. Not when we failed to arrive in the first place.
Oh, sure. The first go-round with Joe Gibbs was a smash. But that was two decades ago. Gibbs II? Kinda like the time John Mayer and Jennifer Aniston got back together. I've lived in Washington for 16 years -- it only feels like 116 -- and like Gus Frerotte following his self-administered concussion, I'm woozy from a series of sports relationships gone sour. Jaded and cynical. Heart-heavy and gun-shy. I know this town is a swamp, literally and figuratively, the place where renewal and reform and good intentions come to die, publicly and painfully, usually after collecting a ginormous signing bonus before holding out from mandatory team minicamp.

To put things another way: Arrive in Washington promising hope and change, and you'll end up throwing out a ceremonial first pitch at a Nationals game wearing a Chicago White Sox cap.

As such, I expect the worst. Guilty until proven innocent. No matter any contrary evidence. Take the Redskins. They have a Super Bowl-winning coach and a seasoned, perennial All-Pro quarterback with something left in the tank. They have a rookie Pro Bowler in quarterback-crusher cheap Brian Orakpo jersey. They no longer have a bingo-caller running their offense, nor the man who hired him in former front-office honcho-cum-owner's racquetball foil Vinny Cerrato. Signs point to something better than 4-12 -- and maybe this season, they'll even be good enough to beat Detroit.
Still, I'm dubious. I've seen this before. Gibbs was a Super Bowl winner, too. He sputtered. Mark Brunell was similar to McNabb. He couldn't stay -- or even get -- healthy. I once was excited for Jeff George, for Spurrier, for -- embarrassingly -- Brandon Lloyd's incredible $10 million hands. Oops. More to the point, the team's same old systemic issues remain: no front-office personnel genius (Shanahan's Denver track record was mixed); a thin, unproven O-line; a lack of young, cheap depth; a habit of buying other clubs' aging stars on the dollar instead of developing homegrown talent on the dime; a dysfunctional chain of command that may or may not be rectified.

Overall, the Skins are like an ex with a drinking problem. Sober up and relapse. Rinse and repeat. Now they're at the front door, lucid and born again, and I want to let them inside … only why do they have a flask in their pocket?

Could be it doesn't matter. Not with Strasburg around. Best first date ever. Fourteen strikeouts! Delicious eponymous cheeseburger! And he's easy to appreciate, even if you're not a seamhead, less a crafty Greg Maddux than a mas macho Nolan Ryan. Who needs the subtle, Elizabethan sonnet-like charms of painting the corners when you have a 100 mph heater, the pitching equivalent of the shirtless guy from "Twilight"? Good thing, too: This isn't much of a baseball town, especially in the city proper. Consequently, I'm not sure Washington can ever fully embrace Strasburg, the way New York fawns over Derek Jeter. And that's if the young pitcher does everything right -- like tossing a perfect World Series Game 7 by fanning 26 batters before No. 27 dissolves in a puddle of frightened tears.

Besides, I'm already worried sick about Strasburg's arm. I remember Kerry Wood. He wasn't local, but so what? If not for bad injury luck, Washington sports would have none: see Gilbert Arenas, or the time Ron Artest broke Michael Jordan's ribs in a pickup game, messing up his comeback exercise routine, leading to achy, swollen knees, resulting in zero Wizards playoff appearances and the lingering horror of No. 23 Bullets throwback jerseys.

Fact is, it's hard to open one's wounded heart to a guy on a strict pitch count.(discount Brian Orakpo jersey)

What about Ovechkin? Great player. Maybe the best in his sport. Still on the rise. Skates for a first-class owner and a smart, stable franchise. His finest hours seem yet to come. Charismatic as heck, with reckless, hard-hitting abandon on the ice and charming swagger off it. A rebel who plays by his own rules. It's hard to imagine a future in which Ovi doesn't succeed. And that's the problem. I couldn't see the tunnel at the end of the light with all-everything Chamique Holdsclaw, either. Nor with Arena
Like Ovechkin, Arenas went his own way. He was zany and fun and refreshing, blogging and tossing jerseys into the stands, coining his own silly nicknames. Plus, he could score. Even won a playoff series. And then? His stubborn weirdness worked against him -- first when he botched his self-directed knee rehab, next when he mistook the Wizards' locker room for the inside of a SWAT van. What if Ovechkin follows a similar path? What if his aggressive style leaves him physically broken down? What if his admirable chippiness becomes something less appealing, like when he broke a fan's video camera at the Olympics?

As a fan myself, can I really afford to be burned the same way twice?

Perhaps Wall will be different. I sure wish I could hope so. The top pick in the draft has so much going for him. Speed. Hops. Personality. Not being Kwame. Seriously, the bar is limbo-low: So long as Wall doesn't try to park a Bradley Fighting Vehicle in the Verizon Center garage, everything else will be gravy. This is a Redskins city -- we have an ineffable thing for maroon and black burgundy and gold -- but that also plays to Wall's advantage. There's room for him to breathe, to grow, without an angry chorus of talk radio call-in Monday morning quarterbacks savaging his first lousy game. (Adios, Jason Campbell!)

More importantly, Washington is also a basketball burg, a place that lives and breathes and plays hoops. We're not as self-aggrandizing about our roundball knowledge as New York fans -- then again, who is? -- but we recognize game. Show some and we'll fall. Hard. Wall will never be John Riggins, never surpass Darrell Green. But among the capital's nascent stars, he has a chance to become the people's choice, first among sporting equals.

Well, except with me. I want to believe. Really. But I can't just hand over my shell-shocked affections. Not yet. Not when Wall could eventually leave as a free agent, or be traded for Mitch Richmond's laundry, or be diagnosed with a freak degenerative wrist injury as a result of shaking hands with David Stern. Nothing against the kid. Honest. It's not him. It's me.

Besides, I've heard good things about Bryce Harper.