“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.
。
2010年8月29日星期日
2010年8月17日星期二
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.
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.
2010年8月9日星期一
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.
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.
2010年8月5日星期四
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.
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.
2010年8月4日星期三
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.
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.
2010年8月3日星期二
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.
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.
2010年8月2日星期一
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.
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.
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