Greg Olsen just wanted some clarity, to know where he stood with the Bears.

The 31st pick in the 2007 NFL draft, he had improved his catches, yards and touchdowns in each of his first three seasons, and some projected him as a breakout player in 2010.

Many speculated Olsen wouldn’t be an ideal fit under new offensive coordinator Mike Martz, who traditionally hadn’t used a tight end much. But everyone played nice through a 2010 season in which the Bears won the NFC North and reached the conference title game, even though Olsen’s production dipped across the board.

Heading into the final year of his rookie deal and slated to make $900,000, Olsen needed to feel good about his future.

On Tuesday, Bears officials told his agent Drew Rosenhaus that they needed a couple of days — based on all the chaos of this shortened offseason — before they could discuss a possible extension. Then, on Wednesday night, they informed Rosenhaus they were looking to trade Olsen.

On Thursday, the Carolina Panthers traded a third-round pick in the 2012 draft to the Bears for Olsen, then agreed to terms with the tight end on a four-year extension worth about $24 million, including $10.5  million guaranteed. The Bears also released Brandon Manumaleuna, whom they signed just last offseason to a three-year, $15 million contract, and signed Matt Spaeth from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Kellen Davis is the only 2010 holdover at tight end.

Olsen has been stunned by it all.

‘‘It was not something that I expected,’’ he told the Sun-Times. ‘‘Then things transpired really fast. But, in the end, I think I’m going to a good place. There’s no doubt I’m going to miss my teammates, and the city of Chicago has been awesome to me and my family.

‘‘But, the business side of it, this was something that — I guess — was in the Bears’ best interests, and then once we started down that road, there was no turning back.’’

Could he have played another down for the Bears if they hadn’t found a suitable trade partner?

‘‘We went through all that stuff last year, and I was able to put it behind me and move forward,’’ he said. ‘‘Last year wasn’t as serious. But this year was more open and official, that this is what they wanted to do. It would be hard knowing that a team didn’t want you two times, then playing through it again.’’

Olsen admitted his reduced role and opportunities last season bothered him.

‘‘There’s no worse feeling then not being able to play up to your potential,’’ he said. ‘‘Last year, I felt like that was the case.’’

Still, Olsen said he’ll be grateful for his time with the Bears.

‘‘I always had a tremendous amount of respect for [coach] Lovie [Smith] and the Bears for selecting me with their first pick [in 2007],” he said.
Olsen said he fit into the offense, and he embraced Martz’s push for him to become a better blocker. And while he got chances to make plays, ‘‘there were weeks on end where I did nothing. I can’t say I never had a role, but it wasn’t consistent.’’

But Olsen is thrilled to be headed to Carolina, where he’ll reunite with former Miami teammate Jon Beason and former Miami offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski.

‘‘To get back with Coach Chud, and what he’s done in the past, with tight ends, is going to be huge for my development,’’ Olsen said, ‘‘and I’m looking forward to it.’’

Chudzinski coached two of the game’s most talented tight ends, Kellen Winslow and Antonio Gates.

Asked about his role, Olsen said, ‘‘It’s hard to say. But his track record of using guys is pretty clear, and that’s encouraging. Now it falls on my shoulders on how I perform. To be honest, I think it’s a way to finally get out of the restraints of what our system was.’’

Still, he’ll never forget the last two days, when he was holed up in a dorm room at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, waiting to hear about his future.

‘‘It was weird, because you’re sitting around your dorm, with nothing to do,” he said. “But I’m glad I can move on and go forward.’’

Click here to order Greg Olsen’s proCane Rookie Card.


(espn.com)

he Kansas City Chiefs announced on Thursday they have signed University of Miami DL Allen Bailey and five other picks including DB Jalil Brown, QB Ricky Stanzi, LB Gabe Miller, DL Jerrell Powe and FB Shane Bannon.

Bailey (6-3, 288) was the second of Kansas City’s two third-round picks (86th overall) in the 2011 NFL Draft. He appeared in 50 games (27 starts) at the University of Miami, producing 103 tackles and 19.0 sacks as well as a reputation as an animal in the weight room.

Details of the contracts are not yet available.


(footballnewsnow.com)

The Atlanta Falcons just announced they have signed three of their draft picks to contracts and added an undrafted free agent.

Matt Bosher, a punter/kicker selected in the sixth-round, Andrew Jackson, an offensive lineman taken in the seventh round and defensive end Cliff Matthews, another seventh-round choice, have agreed to four-year contracts.

Bosher could potentially be the team's starting punter and kickoff specialist as a rookie. He was given a four-year contract.

Place-kicker Matt Bryant remains an unrestricted free agent. Although Bosher and Harfman each have done some place-kicking in the past, neither has a consistent track record like the veteran Bryant.


(espn.com)

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) The Tennessee Titans have announced they have agreed to contract terms with four of their nine 2011 draft picks.

The team said Thursday night they are linebacker Colin McCarthy, a fourth-round pick; running back Jamie Harper, a fourth-round pick; tackle Byron Stingily, sixth round; and defensive tackle Zach Clayton, seventh round.

One youngster who may be immediately thrown into the fire is fourth-round pick Colin McCarthy, a candidate to start at middle linebacker if the Titans can't retain free agent Stephen Tulloch.


(kvos.com)

The Broncos drafted Orlando Franklin in the second round 46th overall, out of Miami. Franklin adds some depth to the Broncos O-line and has a chance to start at right tackle depending on what happens with Ryan Harris.

Franklin had his deal finalized 40 minutes before the morning practice.

In the meantime, he was waiting in his hotel room, going over the playbook and bugging his agent, Drew Rosenhaus.

"He kept telling me to stop calling him," Franklin said.

Once he hit the field, Franklin quickly showed the form that made him a second-round pick. Stepping in as a starter at right tackle, he held his own.

"I learned a lot today; messed up a lot also," Franklin said. "But that comes with the territory."

The University of Miami product was given some plays to study during the lockout and quickly absorbed them, not wanting to let down his fellow linemen.

"It kind of stresses that you have to get it down as quick as possibly," the 6-foot-7, 312-pound Franklin said. "You're rolling with four other guys that pretty much know what they're doing.

"But I was pretty much in the same situation in college. Day one of (that) camp I started also. It puts a lot of pressure on you, but with time I think I'll be all right."

Defensive end Elvis Dumervil helped Franklin out, putting him through the paces when the two were in Florida.

"He told me if I'm able to work out down there in Miami and do the stuff that he was doing that I would be all right coming up here," Franklin said. "But I definitely felt like I was real tired out there."

Franklin was called "one of the most physical, nasty linemen in this year's draft" from NFL Networks Mike Mayock. He is perfect for the system that John Fox runs. He measures in at 6-4, 325 pounds, Franklin is a mauler who plays with a nasty streak.  With a 36" reach, Franklin has excellent arms to play either inside or outside for the Broncos.

Franklin started 51 games while at the University of Miami where he played left guard and left tackle.  While Franklin does have NFL intangibles, he will have to work on his footwork and technique.  Those things can be coached. The Broncos over the past few years have been going to a heaver offensive line transitioning from the Shanahan line.


(milehighreport.com)

(twitpic.com)

Raiders agreed to terms with sixth-round TE Richard Gordon on a four-year deal.

Gordon will fall in line behind Zach Miller (once he's re-signed) and Brandon Myers.


(twitter.com)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Carolina Panthers' wild spending spree keeps on going.
Panthers middle linebacker Jon Beason broke the news on Twitter late Thursday night that he is now the highest-paid middle linebacker in the NFL.

The five-year extension is worth $50 million with $25 million in guarantees, sources told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

"Turn on the tube," Beason wrote late Thursday night. "Jon Beason the highest paid MLB (middle linebacker) in the league. The news breaks now."

Beason becomes the latest of Carolina's core players to get a huge deal from the Panthers, following in the footsteps of defensive end Charles Johnson, linebackers Thomas Davis and James Anderson and running back DeAngelo Williams, all of whom agreed to terms the previous two days.

The Panthers have also reached agreement with kicker Olindo Mare, defensive tackle Ray Edwards and safety Sean Considine and traded for Bears tight end Greg Olsen, who also got a new long-term deal with Carolina. Beason, Johnson, Mare and Olsen are all Drew Rosenhaus clients.

All of those contracts will be signed Friday.

The news of Beason's contract didn't come as a surprise.

On Wednesday night, Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said re-signing Beason to a long-term contract was a "very high priority" and something he wanted to get done soon. He added that Carolina also wants to get a long-term deal for Ryan Kalil, the team's Pro Bowl center.
Beason has started all 64 games since joining the Panthers as a first-round draft pick in 2007.

He has had more than 160 tackles three times and been to three Pro Bowls. Last season, Beason struggled early after volunteering to move to outside linebacker following an injury to Davis. However, he later moved inside after Dan Connor went down with a hip injury and went on to have a productive season with 162 tackles and one sack. The Panthers have locked up all three starting linebackers -- Beason, Anderson and Davis -- through the 2015 season.

(espn.com)

The Titans waived the following players today – QB Vince Young, DT Tony Brown (injured), RB Dominique Lindsay, DE Marcus Howard, DE Kareem Brown and OL Jeff Hansen.




(clarksvilleonline.com)

The brothers of Arizona defensive end Calais Campbell and quarterback John Skelton are among the 21 undrafted rookie free agents who have agreed to contract terms with the Cardinals.

Jared Campbell was a part-time starter at safety for Miami last season. Stephen Skelton was a tight end at Fordham, the same school his brother attended.


(greenwichtime.com)

First-team defense was Trent Cole and Juqua Parker at defensive end, Mike Patterson and Antonio Dixon at defensive tackle, Kurt Coleman and Nate Allen at safety and Trevard Lindley and Joselio Hanson at cornerback (with Lindley on the right). Allen, who is coming off a season-ending knee injury, did not participate fully in all drills, with Marlin Jackson stepping in for him when needed.


(philadelphiaeagles.com)

Cornerback Phillip Buchanon has switched agents right in the middle of free agency, the 10th-year veteran announced on his twitter account.

Buchanon, who served primarily as the Redskins' third cornerback last season, ended his relationship with Drew Rosenhaus and has hired Joel Segal. Buchanon didn’t give a reason for the switch, and didn’t return a message left for him.

Buchanon’s contract is up, and he has listed Washington, Tampa Bay, Miami, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, New Orleans, Oakland and the Jets as teams with which he has interest in signing.

The Redskins are believed to have interest in re-signing Buchanon, who last season recorded 49 tackles, two interceptions and two forced fumbles.

Buchanon previously was among five Redskins free agents – Santana Moss, Rex Grossman, Stephon Heyer and Rocky McIntosh being the others — that also were clients of Rosenhaus.

In all, the Redskins entered this week with 12 free agents, but Moss is the only one of that has re-signed thus far.

Click here to order Philip Buchanon’s proCane Rookie Card.


(washingtonpost.com)

The Buccaneers pay tight end Kellen Winslow to play tight end.  He’s taking on some extra duties.

Assistant to the General Manager.

“I do want to speak upon that it is important to bring back [guard] Davin [Joseph], and I don’t know what is going on with the [linebacker] Barrett Ruud situation, but it would be very disappointing to see him leave,” Winslow told reporters, via PewterReport.com.  “He is one of the key leaders on this team and I know the guys in our locker room want him back.”

Winslow will get at least half of what he wants.  Per PewterReport.com, the Bucs could be working out a deal with Joseph soon.  Joseph reportedly had dinner with G.M. Mark Dominik, coach Raheem Morris, offensive coordinator Greg Olson, offensive line coach Pat Morris, quarterback Josh Freeman, and right tackle Jeremy Trueblood.  Joseph did not receive an offer Wednesday night.

As to Ruud, it’s currently expected that he won’t be back.

Click here to order Kellen Winslow’s proCane Rookie Card.


(profootballtalk.com)

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Patriots defensive lineman Vince Wilfork expressed excitement at getting back on the practice field, offered praise for potential teammate Albert Haynesworth and suggested he'd be OK with shuffling his position so long as it aids New England in winning games. Here's some highlights from his 12-minute chat with the media after Thursday's morning walkthrough outside Gillette Stadium:

On getting back to work: "Just happy to be back. It’s been a long time for us, for all of us, for myself. It’s time to get to work. We have a lot in front of us right now, going into the playbook, great deal of commitment to where we want to be. That’s where we’re at now, starting with the meetings and the walkthrough and just start putting it together."

On Albert Haynesworth as a player and potential teammate: "I think he’s a great player, hell of a player. I had a chance to play in the Pro Bowl with him. I think he’s a great athlete... One thing we try not to do is see what’s going on around the league because our hands are full right now. No more two-a-days, that knocks half of your practices away. We’re in that study room, watching film, getting back, and trying to move forward. Whatever that is, that’s what we’re going to do. If it’s with certain people, it is, if it’s not, oh well, this ship is moving, moving fast, moving quick. I'm just excited to be back."

On leadership in locker room without old stalwarts: "That’s the past. What we have is what we have. We've had some great players come through here. We have some pretty good players now. I’ve been with some good players and I’ve got some great, great teammates now. But all that doesn't matter right now. What matters right now: How fast we can go in this film room, get into this playbook and come out here and put it together. That’s what our focus is."

On playing defensive end in the past: "It was different, but you never know what happens. I always classify myself as a defensive lineman, so whatever I can do to help my team, I’ll do. I’m just blessed [coach] Bill [Belichick] had the faith in me to do what I did. Whatever it takes to win, I’m all for it. I'd go to war with my teammates any time, we love to win. Right now, we're far away from that right now. We haven’t even practiced yet. With time, if we have the commitment, there’s no doubt in my mind we can get to a level that we are comfortable with."

On teaching the Patriot Way to newcomers: "That person, he’ll see how we do things around here. Point blank. We’ve had guys come through here with a rap sheet, [people saying] that, 'He can’t be handled,' or 'This guy can't do this.' You know what, it worked out fine for us. So, I don’t think it’ll be a big problem for us. Like I said, that’s the organization’s call on who they bring in and who they don’t bring in. As a teammate, when we’re on the field, we’re all working together, we want to be the best."

On Belichick's plan for afternoon session: "I don’ know. What does he have for us? I’m pretty sure it’s something we need."

Click here to order Vince Wilfork’s proCane Rookie Card.


(espn.com)

OWINGS MILLS, Md. - The Baltimore Ravens launched training camp Thursday with a three-hour practice, and when it was over, Ray Lewis appeared to be as fresh as when it began.

While the NFL locked its doors for nearly five months, Lewis used the time to get ready for his 16th NFL season. The results of his extensive offseason regimen quickly became evident during the team's first foray onto the field since January, a grueling session in which the players didn't wear pads but rarely stopped running.

"He's been in great shape every year," fourth-year coach John Harbaugh said, "but I think this is the best shape that I've seen him in."

For Lewis, one of the finest linebackers in the history of the game, the initial practice was actually less taxing than his typical offseason workout.
"One thing I think this down time did do for a person like myself is it gave me a lot of time to myself, which let me do anything I wanted to do as far as cross-training in so many different areas," Lewis said. "And that's what I did."

Lewis added a new wrinkle to his workout: cycling. He was reluctant to discuss the topic, but once he got started he couldn't stop.

"I don't like giving away all my secrets, but I will give one secret away," he said. "Cycling is one of the greatest sports in the world."

Lewis liked the idea of improving his cardio-vascular conditioning "without all that pounding."

"Then when you get on the field and go back to running, it isn't the same," he said. "Because you can never take as many steps running as you do cycling. That's one thing I really helped me out this offseason."

The Ravens keep changing around Lewis, but he remains the one constant on the team since its first season in 1996.

Thursday's session took place without several players from last year's playoff club, including four who were formally released at 4 o'clock. Running back Willis McGahee, nose guard Kelly Gregg, wide receiver Derrick Mason and tight end Todd Heap were informed earlier in the week that their contracts would be terminated.

"This is my 16th year. I've seen people come and go. I've seen some of the greats come and go," Lewis said. "That's the business side of it."
Baltimore has already re-assigned the numbers of McGahee (23) and Gregg (97), but did not give out jerseys bearing the numbers of Mason (85) and Heap (86).

There's a possibility that Mason or Heap, or both, could return at a lesser salary.

"With those guys, it's not like we're totally done with them," Lewis said. "I'm almost certain that we'll try to work out something to try to bring those guys back in whatever capacity we can."

Also missing from camp: safety Ed Reed and free agents who played with Baltimore last season but have not yet negotiated new contracts, including quarterback Marc Bulger, running back Le'Ron McClain and defensive backs Chris Carr and Dawan Landry.

"We're short a bunch of guys because of these crazy rules that say your unrestricted free agents can't practice," Harbaugh said.
It was the first NFL practice for second-round pick Torrey Smith, a speedster out of Maryland who is expected to be the long threat that was lacking last season. Smith sat out part of the session with leg cramps.

Generally, though, Harbaugh was happy with the conditioning of his players.

"I think the overall conditioning is excellent," he said. "I'm pleasantly surprised by the shape our guys are in. I think they're in very good shape. We had guys blowing the conditioning test away."

Click here to order Ray Lewis’ proCane Rookie Card.


(nbcsports.com)

(INDIANAPOLIS - July 28, 2011) - Tim George Jr. is in the top five in the point standings for the first time in his ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards career, and he credits numerous mentors at Richard Childress Racing for his rise.

George, 30 and of New York, spoke last night with longtime motorsports voice Larry Henry in an interview that appeared on Henry's weekly radio show, Pit Pass USA. The show airs on the VoiceAmerica Talk Radio Network's Sports Channel.

Having driven the No. 31 Applebee's/Potomac Family Dining Group Chevrolet to his first win this season, George said that his crew chief, Gere Kennon, has helped him build confidence considerably.

"Gere and I have really started to mesh well, and he's figured out what gives me confidence to get real quick in practice early so we can work on other stuff," George said. "It's been really good."

In what George called a "long season" but also a "good one," he said numerous other people from the Richard Childress Racing shop have given him advice and helped his growth. George mentioned two NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers, Clint Bowyer and Jeff Burton, as being particularly helpful. He said that after his win at Pocono in June, Bowyer and some others took him out in Charlotte, N.C. to celebrate.

George also reflected on the influence of Mike Dillon, vice president of competition, and Will Lind, business director of competition.

"Will Lind has been there a long time in the organization," George said. "He worked on Dale's car, and he's managed to stay on and grow with RCR. He has been a big part of my development for sure. He's spotted for me a few times and he tells me how it is."

Though the ARCA Racing Series hasn't raced at Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis since August 3, 1985 - when George was four years old - his recent short track success (second at Berlin) and some film study are playing a key role in his confidence. George said in the interview that he obtained Carl Edwards' in-car footage from a recent Nationwide Series race, and that he's studied the tape to watch line changes, which he called "an interesting, useful thing."


(arcaracing.com)

MILWAUKEE -- Ryan Braun feels he's at full strength at just the right time for the Milwaukee Brewers.

One day after losing All-Star second baseman Rickie Weeks to a severe ankle sprain, Braun had three hits, including a home run, to lead the Brewers to a series sweep with a 4-2 win over the Chicago Cubs on Thursday.

Braun had a nagging calf injury in the days before the All-Star game and missed playing in the game in Phoenix, but since he came back he's heated up with five homers in 12 games.

"I feel good," he said. "I'm swinging better. I feel like my approaches have been good and I've been swinging at strikes. When I do that, the results are usually pretty good."

Braun said the entire team needs to step up with Weeks out for between two and six weeks. The Brewers put Weeks on the 15-day disabled list before the game.

"Whenever you lose someone like Rickie, you can't replace him with one player," he said. "Collectively, we all have to play better. It is not something we wanted to happen, but it did and we have to move on and hope he gets back quickly."


(ap.com)

WASHINGTON -- The Marlins scored 18 runs in their first two games at Nationals Park without their No. 3 hitter, and they had to go without first baseman Gaby Sanchez again in the series finale Thursday.

Manager Jack McKeon kept Sanchez out of the lineup for the third consecutive game against Washington as the All-Star nurses a sore left hamstring.

"We'll evaluate him and see how he is, "McKeon said. "But if we keep winning, we'll keep him out.

"Let's be cautious, because I'd rather have him out for three or four days than two weeks."

Sanchez took swings in the batting cage before the game as he continues to head in the right direction. Greg Dobbs started the first two games in his stead, and Wes Helms got the start in the series finale against Nationals left-hander John Lannan.


(mlb.com)

Leonard Hankerson tweeted this photo of his new Redskins locker.

San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore will be 29 years old when his current contract expires following the 2011 season.

Gore apparently -- and correctly, in my view -- realizes teams won't be lining up to pay him lavishly at that time.

That's the best explanation for Gore's decision to hold out when the 49ers open training camp Thursday, as ESPN's Adam Schefter says Gore plans to do.

A few facts and opinions:
• Gore's contract pays him $2.9 million in salary with a $2 million roster bonus this season. His cap number is $7.1 million thanks to more than $2.1 million in bonus proration. The deal averages $6.9 million.

• The 49ers need Gore. Finding a way to resolve this issue and get Gore on the field will serve the team well. But there's no way the 49ers can give into Gore's demands while general manager Trent Baalke and coach Jim Harbaugh are still establishing themselves. This is a chance for Baalke, Harbaugh and the 49ers to take a stand. Gore will show up eventually.

• Running backs tend to wind down near age 30. Gore missed the final five games to injury last season. This was going to be his final big-money contract, most likely.

• Gore will take heat publicly if he does stay away, I predict. His timing is poor following the lockout. Fans love Gore, but it's tough for some to relate to someone turning up his nose at millions.

• Gore's agent is Drew Rosenhaus, who has experience taking these things public. I'm not expecting any driveway news conferences, however.

This is no way for the Harbaugh era to begin on the field, but he's in it for the long haul. He'll be there long after Gore is there. The 49ers have been talking all along about the long term. I doubt they'll cave to short-term demands here, even for a highly-respected player such as Gore.


(espn.com)

At least one Redskins draft pick will be on time when training camp opens Thursday.

Wide receiver Leonard Hankerson announced on Twitter shortly after midnight that he has agreed to terms of a contract with the Redskins.

“Done Deal peeps!!” he said.

Terms were not immediately known.

Hankerson, out of the University of Miami, was a third-round pick, the draft’s 79th overall selection. He’ll be competing in camp with more than a dozen other receivers, but at least he’s wasting no time by signing so quickly.


(washingtonpost.com)

Raiders signed No. 81 overall pick Demarcus Van Dyke to a four-year contract.

The Jets are pursuing free agent CB Phillip Buchanon, according to Redskins beat writer John Keim.

Despite working for the Examiner, Keim's sources are respected on the 'Skins beat. While the Jets are working on possibly adding Nnamdi Asomugha and considering re-signing free agent Antonio Cromartie, it appears they are also looking to add secondary depth. Buchanon projects as a nickel corner.


(rotoworld.com)

The Panthers have formally begun long-term extension talks with MLB Jon Beason. Owed just $1.338 million, Beason is entering the last year of his contract and has been identified as a core player by Carolina's new coaching staff.



(fantasysp.com)

The Bears had a deal in place to trade Greg Olsen during the second round of the 2010 draft that didn't materialize when the Patriots drafted their own tight end.

Now, two nights before the beginning of training camp, the team may be considering trading Olsen again.

His agent Drew Rosenhaus sent a mass email to the league's general managers and personnel people at 7:56 p.m. Wednesday night announcing the Bears were making Olsen available for trade. The email went to scores of people, including Bears general manager Jerry Angelo and contract negotiator Cliff Stein.

"The Bears have granted me permission to seek a trade for Greg Olsen," Rosenhaus wrote. "Please let me know if interested. Sounds like the Bears will be very reasonable on the compensation in return for Greg."

But 11 minutes later, Rosenhaus sent another mass email to the same recipients, including Angelo and Stein, asking them to ignore his previous message.

"Please disregard my previous email regarding Greg Olsen," the one-sentence email said.

What does it mean? Clearly Rosenhaus had permission to shop Olsen or believed he had permission to shop him. One personnel executive who received the email speculated the Bears saw how fast and wide the message was sent and asked Rosenhaus to pull back.

Questions surrounded how Olsen would fit in the offense last season as coordinator Mike Martz has a history of not utilizing tight ends in the passing game. Olsen went to the front office and shared those concerns. There were rumors he would be traded before the draft and the deal with the Patriots nearly happened, according to a Bears source, before they selected Rob Gronkowski 42nd overall.

Olsen had 41 receptions for 404 yards last season and five scores, tying him for the most touchdown receptions on the team. The Bears have two other veteran tight ends on the roster in Brandon Manumaleuna and Kellen Davis.

Olsen, the club's first-round draft pick in 2007, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and will be looking for an extension or an opportunity to play elsewhere.

He was very professional about the situation last season and has developed into a leader in the locker room while being a durable performer on the field. He said the trade talk did not get to him.

"You mean the story that was made up?" Olsen told the Tribune before the start of last season. "It doesn't bother me because I know there is no truth behind it. But it does bother me that people take the liberty to just make up stories for their own personal benefit.

"There was no substance behind it. If there was, tell us. It's easy to say an unnamed source. That could be anybody."

His agent's fingerprints are on the story now.


(chicagotribune.com)

Santana Moss received a three-year, $15 million contract extending his stay in Washington. It’s a good move on multiple levels for Moss and the Redskins.

Moss has been the team’s most reliable and productive wide receiver, not to mention a leader in the meeting room, locker room and on the field.
It makes sense to bring back Moss; without him, the Redskins would have had a big hole at wide receiver. So the team addressed a pressing need, and also brought back a player who is familiar with the team’s offensive playbook.

I expect the Redskins to try and further bolster the position and go after another wide receiver, but for this season Moss’s familiarity will be the wild card coming out of the work stoppage. Washington has a very talented draft pick in Leonard Hankerson, who happens to share a college (Miami) with Moss. I think that will also go a long way as I’m sure these two have already worked out together and are very familiar with each other, as it is tradition for former Miami players to go back and work out together once they’ve moved on to the NFL.

It’s a win-win if you ask me.


(washingtonpost.com)

Reds manager Dusty Baker said Chris Heisey will play most of the time in left field, which means Yonder Alonso mostly will come off the bench.
Alonso was called up Tuesday night when Jonny Gomes was traded to Washington, and Alonso arrived in the Reds clubhouse around the fifth inning Tuesday. Shortly thereafter, Alonso stroked a pinch-hit double.

Naturally, Reds fans on Twitter pleaded for Alonso to start in left field Wednesday night. Heisey started.

"Everybody can't play left field," Baker said. "Everybody was hollering for Heisey and now everybody wants Yonder to play. ... We know (Alonso) can hit, but right now probably most of the time is going to go to Heisey."

Alonso admittedly is no Usain Bolt and is more suited to first base, but reigning NL MVP Joey Votto is the Reds' first baseman. Alonso therefore played mostly left field at Triple-A Louisville this year, as the Reds seek ways to get his bat into the lineup long-term.

"Yonder is more of a first baseman than he is a left fielder," Baker said. "Speed is the question, and range, and so we'll see how it works out. We're trying to win ballgames."

Alonso, the Reds' No. 1 draftee in June 2008, was called up Sept. 1 last year. In 29 at-bats he hit .207, with no homers and three RBI.
This year Alonso was hitting .296 with 12 homers and 56 RBI at Louisville.

Alonso graciously accepted the move to left field.

"Every day it gets a little easier," he said. "I've just got to come out here and work as much as possible."

Alonso did not make an error and had three assists in 62 appearances as an outfielder for Louisville this season.

His only two errors were at first base, where he played 21 games.

Louisville manager Rick Sweet, in a recent interview, said Alonso was a willing pupil in left field.

"His jumps and routes are good," Sweet said. "He just doesn't have a lot of range, it's that simple. For his ability he's solid, but he just lacks that speed that you like to have there. But he's done a good job, he's thrown people out, and I've been impressed with his instincts."

At first base, Votto has started all but two games this year.

"Joey's the first baseman, we all know that," Alonso said. "I've just got to take care of myself, make sure I'm ready to play every single day and help the team out."

With Votto anchored at first, Alonso also is mentioned frequently in trade rumors.

"Half the time it's just all gossip," Alonso said. "You try not to listen to it. I think earlier in my career I listened to every little thing, but now I couldn't care less. I want to be here."


(cincinnati.com)

According to our good friends at CSNBayArea.com, the Giants are planning to release veteran outfielder Pat Burrell when their trade for Carlos Beltran is made final on Thursday afternoon.

The Giants will also option Brandon Belt back to Triple-A Fresno to clear a spot on the 25-man roster. Dumping Burrell clears a spot on the 40-man roster.

Burrell, 34, signed a one-year, $1 million free agent contract with San Francisco this winter. As of Wednesday, he’s batting just .233/.342/.419 on the year with seven home runs and 21 RBI in 80 games.

A few teams may be open to giving Burrell a minor league deal, but he’s doubtful to land with a contender.

UPDATE: Well, forget all that. According to Hank Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle, Burrell, who is currently on the 15-day disabled list, will not be released Thursday.


(hardballtalk.com)

The trade of Jonny Gomes to the Nationals has opened the way for Reds prospect Yonder Alonso to finally get his chance in Cincinnati. While he may split time in left field with Chris Heisey, and Fred Lewis could steal at-bats, too, Alonso should get the bulk of the playing time in the near term.

Blocked by Joey Votto at his natural position of first base, Alonso was converted to the outfield this year. While he won't ever be more than an adequate fielder, his bat should keep him in the lineup. Alonso's greatest strength is superb plate discipline, which has allowed him to hit for a high average at every stop in the minors. He also uses the whole field and has done a good job of making adjustments against lefthanded pitching, posting a .313 average against lefties at Class AAA this year.

A hamate injury in 2009 sapped his strength but Alonso seems fully recovered and was on pace to hit 20-plus home runs at Class AAA Louisville this season. His power was on full display in batting practice at the Futures Game, where World team manager and former Diamondback Luis Gonzalez gushed over the rookie's ability to drive the ball out of any part of the ballpark. When I spoke with Alonso afterward, he told me that it "took about a year to get my power back and start to feel good" after the injury.

While Alonso will have to produce right away to guarantee himself big-league playing time this season, long-term he's clearly the Reds' future left fielder, and possibly an eventual replacement for Votto at first base. His combination of patience, pure hitting skills, and decent power potential should allow him to post an eventual stat line of .300-20-90 at the major league level. I don't ever see him reaching 30 home runs and he won't steal any bases, but he should be a solid big-leaguer for years to come.


(sportingnews.com)

proCanes.com asked Damien Berry over twitter yesterday what number he thought he would wear considering his college number, 20, is worn by proCane Ed Reed, and chances are he will not be giving that number up. Berry replied to us by saying: “i would rock the TWO THREE wit pride.” Let’s see if Berry does get 23.

proCane rookie undrafted free agents cornerbacks Ryan Hill and Corey Nelms will sign today contracts. Ryan Hill will sign with the Minnesota Vikings while Corey Nelms will sign the San Francisco 49ers. Additionally, fullback Patrick Hill will sign will join fellow proCane rookie Colin McCarthy at the Tennessee Titans.

The Washington Redskins and wide reciever Santana Moss have reached an agreement on a three-year deal worth $15 million, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

According to the source, Moss will receive a $5 million signing bonus and $6 million total in guarantees.

The 32-year-old Moss became a free agent as a result of a restructured contract he signed with the Redskins in 2009 that included a clause that said his contract would automatically void five days after Super Bowl XLV.

Moss had a career-high 93 receptions in 2010, his first season with coach Mike Shanahan. He also had his fourth career 1,000-yard season (1,115) and six touchdowns. He has led the team in yards receiving every year he's been in Washington.

The 10-year veteran has 593 receptions for 8,558 yards and 52 touchdowns. He was a Pro Bowler in 2005.

Moss was selected 16th overall by the New York Jets in the 2001 draft. The Redskins acquired him in a trade that sent Laveranues Coles to New York in the 2005 offseason.

Click here to order Santana Moss’s proCane Rookie Card.


(espn.com)

The Texans and DL Damione Lewis agreed to a one-year deal on Tuesday, according to Pro Football Talk.

Lewis played in 10 games with Houston last season and recorded 17 tackles. This will be his 11th season in the league. Lewis has 23½ career sacks.

Lewis was an unrestricted free agent. The deal will become official on Friday.

Click here to order Damione Lewis’ proCane Rookie Card.


(profootballweekly.com)

The Texans have agreed to new contracts with receiver Jacoby Jones and offensive tackle Rashad Butler, two of their four key free agents.

Butler agreed to a two-year deal worth $3.8 million, with a $1.25 million signing bonus.

Butler, who was an unrestricted free agent, made $1.176 million in 2010, when he served as the backup to left tackle Duane Brown and right tackle Eric Winston. Butler started four games when Brown was suspended for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy.

With the NFL lockout having ended Monday, Tuesday marked the first day teams could negotiate with their free agents and those from other teams. No free-agent signings can take place until Friday. Thus, Jones and Butler can't sign until then.


(chron.com)

Pro Bowl linebacker Jonathan Vilma is giving $450,000 to his alma mater, Miami. The New Orleans Saints star announced the donation Tuesday, two days before his club opens training camp for the 2011 season. Vilma is a Coral Gables native and played for the Hurricanes from 2000 through 2003, helping Miami win one national championship and play for another. Vilma's gift will go toward construction of Miami's planned Schwartz Center for Athletic Excellence. It will be an expansion and renovation of the current Hecht Athletic Center, and his name will be on the football players' lounge at the new complex. Vilma led Miami in tackles in three of his four college seasons. He says his gift ''is about the future'' of the Hurricanes' program. Click here to order Jon Vilma’s proCane Rookie Card.


(ap.com)

CINCINNATI -- The trade of Jonny Gomes to the Washington Nationals on Tuesday was more about Yonder Alonso than Gomes. The Reds got a couple prospects for Gomes, but it was more about opening a spot for Alonso than what the Reds got in return.

"We've got some quality young players at Triple-A who deserve the opportunity to be here," Reds GM Walt Jocketty said. "We'll see if they do help us."

Alonso has played 62 of his 91 games at Triple-A in left field. He worked hard on the position in the offseason, but he is limited as far as speed.
"He's improved a lot," Jocketty said. "He'll be able to spell Joey from time to time. He'll play some left field. He'll be a left-handed hitter off the bench. The one thing we do know about Yonder is he can hit. He can flat out hit."

Alonso was hitting .296/.374/.468 with a 12 home runs and 56 RBI for the Bats.

Jocketty would not say Alonso will play every day in the left field. Chris Heisey and Fred Lewis will still get time.

"We felt we needed another left-handed bat," Jocketty said. "Yonder's done a terrific job at Louisville and has deserved the opportunity to come up here and see if he can contribute to the major league club."

Jocketty says, despite treading a veteran for two prospects, the Reds have not switched the emphasis from buy to sell.

"I think what we're looking at now is more players who will contribute at the major league level," Jocketty said. "We're still buying."

Gomes was not an easy guy to trade.

"We had a couple clubs inquire about Jonny's services but Washington was probably the most persistent," Jocketty said. "For us, it's a tough move to make in some ways because Jonny was a big part of our club last year. He's obviously a guy we thought very highly of as a person and a player."


(cincinnati.com)

Ryan Braun went 3-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI in Tuesday's 3-2 win against the Cubs.

Braun is 6-for-11 with two homers and three RBI since missing a couple days with a calf issue. He has four homers and seven RBI in his last six games. Braun is hitting a sweltering .326/.402/.588 on the season.


(rotoworld.com)

Lou Montanez's two-run double in the second inning provided all the offense Iowa needed in a 2-1 Pacific Coast League win at New Orleans on Tuesday night.

Casey Coleman took care of the rest. He worked seven solid innings, giving up one run on six hits while striking out four as the Cubs improved to 8-19 in the first game of a series.

Scott Maine struck out the side in the ninth for his 10th save this season.


(desmoinesregister.com)

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Gaby Sanchez had started every game this season for the Marlins, but that streak ended Tuesday when he felt some discomfort in his left hamstring while working out before the game at Nationals Park and was pulled from the lineup.

"He said he had a hamstring [that] was pulling, so I said, 'Well, take the day off,' " Marlins manager Jack McKeon said. "I hate to get him out of there when he is hitting good."

McKeon said after Tuesday's 11-2 win over the Nationals that Sanchez will also be out of Wednesday's lineup.

Greg Dobbs, who replaced Sanchez, had a career-high five RBI Tuesday, going 3-for-5 with a home run.

"I am not changing," McKeon said about Wednesday's lineup. "Works out perfect. We can give Gaby an extra day."

In his last three games Sanchez, who is hitting .287, had three home runs and five RBI. Sanchez had started 101 games at first base and one as designated hitter, and was the only Marlin to have started every game.

"Knowing him, he never wants to get out of the lineup, so it is probably not feeling good," McKeon said.

"Just taking a day," Sanchez said after the lineup was changed. "That is all I have to say."

Dobbs said Sanchez told him his hamstring was bothering him before working out Tuesday, and then, after hitting in the batting cage, he told Dobbs he probably wouldn't be playing.


(sun-sentinel.com)

BRADENTON -- Tim Perez has worn the ring nearly every waking moment since the Major League Baseball All-Star Game on July 12 in Phoenix.

It’s a reminder of how his son made a dream come true for several generations of his family.

That son is Chris Perez, the highly touted closer for the Cleveland Indians. He was selected for his first All-Star Game this year and wanted to share the moment with the person he believes made it possible.

The 26-year-old Perez followed his dad and uncles, who were athletes at Southeast High. Tim was the quarterback for the Seminoles in their inaugural game against Manatee High and baseball for Manatee Junior College but then gave up sports for the world of work. None of his family members made it as far as Chris, but they have jumped on what seems like a magic carpet ride.

On the night the All-Star Game ended, Chris gave his All-Star ring to his dad, shocking Tim and bringing tears to his eyes.

“I couldn’t do anything else but give him the ring,” Chris said. “He taught me the game. If it wasn’t for him and all the sacrifices he made for me, I would not be where I am today. The ring is like a thank-you for everything he did for me.”

When Tim was summoned to his son’s hotel room after the game, he had no idea he would receive the gift of his life. Now, he can’t take it off -- and it’s generating questions from nearly everyone he meets.

“I wasn’t expecting it. We were in the room, and Chris just said ‘I want to give you something,’” his dad recalled. “My first reaction was, ‘Son this is your ring. And he says ‘No, dad, I wouldn’t here without you.’ I wasn’t expecting anything. I was just a dad supporting his son.”

Chris played three years for Manatee High, spent his senior season at the IMG Academies Pendleton School and finished his collegiate career at the University of Miami. He was the 42nd overall pick in the 2006 Major League Baseball Draft and came up to the big leagues two years later.

It’s become more than just a ring for Tim Perez. It symbolizes more than a generation of family members who loved the game of baseball, but couldn’t reach the plateau that Chris has attained.

“I’ve been wearing the ring every day since I got it. I always wanted to play major league baseball, but I couldn’t make it. Chris made it for the both of us,” Tim said. “I am living that through him. I am proud of it and proud of my son. So many people notice it but don’t know me. They ask about it, and I tell them about Chris.”

To Chris, dad is the special person.

Tim started teaching his son the game of baseball when he was 4 years old until his senior year of high school, when he realized he had taken him as far as he could.

“I never envisioned my son playing in the major leagues,” Tim said. “My focus was one day he would get to college and play for Manatee Community College. I never thought it would be for Miami. He did it. In his mind, he knew he could play Major League Baseball.”

The best part for Tim is that the stardom has not changed his son.

“Even at the All-Star Game, he is still the same person to me. He is my kid and has not changed,” Tim said. “He gets paid well, but it’s not like he shows it. He takes care of his family and has a nice home. He is normal kid, who happens to have a gift.”

Tim saw a passion burning in his son that was something special. He could also throw a baseball more than 90 miles per hour, which made the move from catcher to pitcher seem natural.

“Chris would go to every Pirates game at McKechnie Field. Even on school days when he couldn’t get there until the fourth or fifth inning, he would go,” Tim said. “He said, ‘Dad I am going to do this someday.’ In his mind, it would always happen.”

But Chris insists it would not have happened without his father.

“He never forced me to do it. He provided the opportunity to go to IMG, and I am sure that is not cheap. He paid for everything, all my equipment and summer ball and never told me no,” Chris said. “He said play every game hard, you never know who is in the stands and respect the game. I learned my work ethic from him.”

The big moment in Chris’ career came when he switched to becoming a full-time pitcher after catching all his life through his junior year of high school.

“He sat me down and laid it all out and said if you pitch, you might be able to make it to the big leagues,” Chris said. “I loved catching and hitting but felt at the end of the day I wanted to keep playing, and if pitching is the way, I will do it.”

The rest is history. Chris has become one of the top closers in the game and is enjoying every moment. He has shown he has the right demeanor to fit his role.

“To be in my first All-Star Game felt like my major-league debut. I was like a kid again. It was tremendous and something I will always remember,” Chris said. “I remember sitting in the living room watching the game when I was a kid. You never think you would be there because the odds are so stacked against you. It’s pretty cool.”

Now Chris is helping to keep Cleveland in the thick of the American League Central Division race. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound right-hander has 22 of the team’s 24 saves, which ranks him fifth in the league.

“To be a good closer, you need to have a short memory and a lot of self-confidence. When you get the ball, you’ve got to have that killer instinct. In the end, you have to trust yourself, and you’ve got to be healthy,” he said.


(bradenton.com)

The Baltimore Ravens will be releasing one proCane once free agency starts on Thursday but they will be picking up one of the newest proCanes to potentially replace him. Willis McGahee will reportedly be released by the Ravens, while undrafted free agent rookie Damien Berry looks to be signing with the Ravens. Berry will back-up Ray Rice and give the Ravens a goalline threat at RB since both McGahee and LaRon Mclain look to be released. Congrats to Damien!

Teams are starting to reach out and make contact with unrestricted free agents that were not drafted. The Eagles according to Bleeding Green Nation and other sources have inked Hurricanes RB Graig Cooper.

The Eagles first signing according to several reports is Miami Hurricanes RB Graig Cooper (yes that’s spelled right). Cooper was a very highly touted prospect, but… can you guess what I’m about to say next? Tore up his knee late in 2009 which cost him part of last year and really seemed limit his effectiveness last year.

He was really looking to be on his way to stardom after a big freshman year where he racked up the 3rd most rushing yards by a true freshman in Miami history (behind Clinton Portis). He does fit the mold of what the Eagles look for, as he’s a very good pass catcher as well as runner.

So like they have several times in the past the Eagles are rolling the dice on a guy being undervalued coming off an injury. And really, with 90 roster spots this year, why not?


(eaglesgab.com)

Now that the Baltimore Ravens have notified Willis McGahee that he will be released from his contract Thursday, expect the Broncos to be among the teams interested in signing him.

McGahee, 29, was with the Buffalo Bills from 2004-06 when Eric Studesville was his running backs coach. Studesville is now the Broncos’ running backs coach. McGahee rushed for 1,207 yards in 2007 with Baltimore but he has averaged just 6.7 carries a game the past two seasons as Ray Rice’s backup.

If the Broncos do go with McGahee, he would likely be the 1B back to Knowshon Moreno.

There is the Studesville-McGahee connection, and then there is the John Fox-DeAngelo Williams connections. Williams is a feature back, capable of handling 20 carries a game. He played his first five seasons with the Carolina Panthers and Fox, who is now the Broncos’ head coach.

Other running backs the Broncos may pursue in free agency include Atlanta’s Jason Snelling, Jerious Norwood (whose connection is GM Brian Xanders) New Orleans’ Reggie Bush (defensive coordinator Dennis Allen), Dallas’ Marion Barber III and Oakland’s Michael Bush (no connection, just good backs).

Click here to order Willis McGahee’s proCane Rookie Card.


(denverpost.com)

IMMOKALEE — Edgerrin James had never announced his retirement from 11 seasons in the NFL — until this morning.

James, who turns 33 on Aug. 1, admitted his retirement at the start of his third annual Edgerrin James Foundation football camp at the Immokalee Sports Complex, just across the street from where he graduated at Immokalee High School in 1996.

“I’ve been retired,” said James, a running back who began his career in 1999 as the No. 4 overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. “I’m not playing anymore.”

At last year’s football camp, James said he would consider playing for the right team. He revealed today he was joking. He said he never wanted to make a big deal out of retiring.

“That’s the way I wanted it,” James said. “I wanted to get in, get out, no big thing. I’m on to something else now. Now, I’m a fan.

“I could play again as a free agent, but that’s not something I would do. I got in, got out. That was the plan. I look at it as a well executed plan. Now I can do stuff like this. This is what I want to do. I didn’t want to keep playing until I was too old and I couldn’t move around. The last year I played, I was hurt, and I never had a chance to get healthy.

“Could I play? Yes, I could play. But do I want to play? No. I’m past that. Let’s open up the door for somebody else.”

Earlier this morning, Collier County commissioner Jim Coletta gave James a proclamation declaring today as Edgerrin James Day.

“This proclamation recognizes Edgerrin James’ generosity and commitment to his hometown of Immokalee,” Coletta said. “Edgerrin’s camp engages each participant, from the beginner to the more seasoned athlete, giving them a chance to realize their potential in a safe and fun environment.”

James said he appreciated the recognition.

“It means a lot,” he said. “It means you’re doing things right. The county commissioner doesn’t show up when you’re not doing things right. That’s one thing I’ve always taken pride in, is doing things the right way. He paid me respects. For me, that’s big.”

Click here to order Edgerrin James’ proCane Rookie Card.


(news-press.com)

Free Agent Linebacker Rocky McIntosh joins the LaVar Arrington Show to talk about his thoughts on the end of the lock out and where he might play next season.

The Redskins made McIntosh their top overall pick (35th overall) in the 2006 draft. He’s amassed 407 tackles and 7 sacks during his time in Washington.

After failing to become a free-agent last season because of complications with the CBA, McIntosh gave the impression that he’s been waiting for his ‘pay-day’ eagerly during his interview. He did say though that money wasn’t the only thing that would sway his decision.

“I would like to win first and foremost,” said McIntosh, “Getting towards the second half of my career you want to set yourself up to be not only successful off the field but on the field.”

Click here to order Rocky McIntosh’s proCane Rookie Card.


(washington.cbslocal.com)

Okay, it won’t officially be a transaction until Thursday. But we’re going to hear a lot of reports of agreements, deals, and other planned player moves all week long before anything is official.

The first such report is no surprise: ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Willis McGahee has been informed he will be released by the Ravens.  We included McGahee on our list of players likely to get cut because he has a $6 million salary and seemed unwilling to take a pay cut.

McGahee will make less money wherever he signs, but he becomes a solid option for teams looking for a backup running back.

Click here to order Willis McGahee’s proCane Rookie Card.


(profootballtalk.com)

Today kicks off a week that promises to be hectic. Draft picks and unsigned college free agents can sign beginning at 9 a.m. today. Teams may start negotiating with free agents - their own and others - at the same time, but deals and terms can't be finalized until 5 p.m. Friday. Beginning at 3:01 p.m. Thursday, teams may terminate contracts.

"I'm excited to get back to work," Texans quarterback Matt Schaub said. "I'm eager to see everybody and settle into business as usual. It'll be good to get everybody on the field. It's pretty shocking that, through all the turmoil, it came down to missing one preseason game (the Aug. 7 Hall of Fame Game between the St. Louis Rams and Chicago Bears) before we got a deal done."

Added Texans right tackle and co-player representative Eric Winston: "I think this is awesome. Our goal was to get on the field. I'm excited about it. I have to admit that, at one point, I thought we were going to miss some of camp and preseason because there was no movement."

According to Winston, the players will vote to recertify as a union after they report to camp. He said the process should be completed during the first couple of days, when final details of the labor deal such as benefits and player discipline can be hammered out.

Click here to order Eric Winston’s proCane Rookie Card.


(chron.com)

Minnesota Vikings stud Bryant McKinnie is all set for the new NFL season to start -- telling TMZ he's kept himself in tip-top shape during the lockout by training with Venus and Serena Williams!

McKinnie -- who's listed at 6'8" and 335 lbs -- tells us his friends Venus and Serena have been putting him through some high-intensity tennis drills at a private facility in Florida to help his balance and footwork.

Bryant -- a Pro Bowl offensive lineman -- says the sisters focused on quick lateral movement ... as well as improving acceleration backwards and forwards from a dead stop.

McKinnie says the workouts were difficult ... but the Williams' were very patient with him and he feels it'll all pay off on the field.

And now that the lockout is finally over -- thank god -- we'll actually get a chance to see for ourselves.

Click here to order Bryant McKinnie’s proCane Rookie Card.


(tmz.com)

Ed Reed isn't trying to cause trouble when he calls out Hines Ward. He thinks too much of his old rival as a player to disrespect him.

But the Baltimore Ravens safety isn't afraid to speak his mind on what he believes is a dangerous style of play exhibited by the Pittsburgh Steelers' star wide receiver.

Reed was a guest on NFL Network on Monday morning, and in between discussing the end of the NFL lockout, he elaborated on critical comments that he made about Ward at his annual football camp.

"We have to police each other when we're on the football field," said Reed, a seven-time All-Pro. "I've been playing against the guy for a long time now, and we do have some great battles, but there's a reason they put a rule in for Hines. You can go back and watch the tape, the tape don't lie, you can't hit guys with the crown of your helmet."

Last week, Reed called Ward a dirty player.

"I love Hines as a player, and I told him that," Reed said last week. "But I told him also for a long time, 'You’re a dirty player because I know how you play.' "

Reed said Monday that proper blocking techniques are taught at the youth level of football, and the same practices should apply in the fast and fearsome world of the NFL.

"There's a reason why Hines has been a great football player, a great blocker in this league, because how he plays, he plays hard," Reed said. "You can't take anything away from him. But when you're dropping and hitting people with the crown of your helmet, those are type of things that need to be addressed."

While Reed has publicly taken Ward's playing style to task, he defended Monday the perception and treatment of another Steelers star who has been in the news lately.

"James Harrison has been a guy who's been getting fined, and he's hitting people with his forearm and his shoulder pads, he's not clearly hitting them with the crown of his helmet," Reed said. "So those are the things the NFL needs to look at and kind of police better than just trying to fine guys and take their money just because an offensive guy or whoever is getting a concussion."

Reed's message was that the game has a code, and it must be followed to protect the safety of all involved.

"I've been playing the game for a long time, I consider myself one smart player on the football field when it comes to trying to hit guys and trying not to take guys out," he said. "I know how (Ward) plays, and I feel like I can comment about it without being disrespectful about it."

Click here to order Ed Reed’s proCane Rookie Card.


(nfl.com)

IMMOKALEE — In its third year, the now annual Edgerrin and Javarris James Youth Football Camp has grown every summer since its inception in 2009.

This year's edition, Monday at the Immokalee Sports Complex, was the biggest yet, and the namesake cousins were on hand again to give advice from their years of experience as NFL running backs. But no matter how big the camp gets -- and there were more than 1,000 kids this time around -– the Jameses want to make sure the event stays true to its mission.

“I wanted to make it a fun day,” said Edgerrin James, 11-year NFL veteran who last played in 2009. "It's structured to where we do some work, then have fun, then (get in) the pool. It's kind of a nice family atmosphere. For people that aren't from here, it's to make them feel welcomed. They can come to Immokalee and take part in everything just like they grew up here.”

“This is an opportunity for the kids in Immokalee to see what it takes to make it to the next level,” Javarris James said. “We're out there working with them, too. This is good for the town of Immokalee.”

A 1996 graduate of Immokalee High School, Edgerrin James started the camp two summers ago as a way to teach and mentor kids from his hometown. Since then, the youth camp has blossomed into a statewide event with buses bringing players in from as far as Orlando on Monday.
Players were put through drills, taught techniques, and got to compete in a flag football tournament. More than that, seeing the James cousins, who came from the same humble roots as the campers, served as inspiration for the participants.

The camp started with a morning ceremony in which Collier County commissioner Jim Coletta named the day in honor of Edgerrin James and the work he's done giving back to the area's youth.

“Whereas children are the future of Florida, and it is important to take action to ensure they are provided a positive start in life,” Coletta read from a written proclamation, “... and whereas NFL star Edgerrin James will share his love for football and teach fundamentals and communicate the importance of hard work and respect … we are pleased to welcome the inspiration for our youth for the third year in a row.”

Edgerrin James is 11th on the NFL's all-time rushing list, but his cousin Javarris might have drawn more attention Monday from the young campers. Last summer Javarris James was an undrafted free agent who was preparing for Indianapolis Colts training camp.

After starting the season on the New England Patriots' practice squad, James finished the year with the Colts – Edgerrin's former team – and scored six touchdowns in the final seven games.

When he arrived on the field Monday, the younger James was mobbed by younger players wanting to shake his hand and ask for an autograph.
“It's different this year from what it was last year for me personally,” Javarris James said. “Now I can actually say I've played in the NFL. All these guys have seen me on television, where last year I was just getting into it.”

NFL free agent running back Clinton Portis, a product of the University of Miami like the James cousins, was on hand at Immokalee on Monday. Fort Myers High grad and former NFL receiver Jammi German also worked the camp.

The players were split almost equally among high school, middle school and younger age groups. While the little ones learned fundamentals and techniques, the older players participated in a mini combine that tested their football skills, including the 40-yard dash.

The day ended with a cookout for the campers and their parents and a pool party at the Immokalee Sports Complex aquatics center.

The most popular part of the day, though, was the 7-on-7 games that came in the afternoon. Some players traveled to Immokalee specifically to compete against teams they wouldn't otherwise see.

“The kids love it,” Edgerrin James said. “They love that there are kids from other places. That's what they like the most because they get a chance to come out and compete, measure themselves up against each other. See where they stand. They're always looking forward to the flag football game at the end.”

Jameel Jackson, 17, came to the camp with four of his Fort Pierce Central teammates. He said he enjoyed learning from the pros, but the biggest reason his team was there was to test itself against other squads.

“We try to go to a lot of different camps,” Jackson said. “We came out here for the 7-on-7. It's what we're best at.”

Many of the high school players shared the same sentiment. Jimmy Bayes, a sophomore receiver who was one of more than two dozen Immokalee players at Monday's camp, said the Indians always look forward to the afternoon games.

“It's competition,” said Jimmy Bayes, 16, a sophomore wide receiver at Immokalee. “That's why you play football. It drives everybody.”

While Edgerrin and Javarris James emphasized their camp was all about fun, there were lessons the hosts hoped to impart on the youngsters.
By coming home to a small, often underprivileged Immokalee, the Jameses want to show the players that anything is possible with hard work and determination.

“Immokalee – this is the root of everything.” Edgerrin James said. “This is where I started out, where I played. If somebody like myself doesn't come back here, who will come here? It's just natural for me to come back here and give these guys the same opportunity I had or an even better opportunity than I had.

“For me, it's natural to come out here and be a part of something like this. I love dealing with the kids, I love having fun. This is easy. It's a matter of having a free schedule. This is where I want to be. I like dealing with these kids.”

Click here to order Edgerrin James’ proCane Rookie Card.


(naplesnews.com)

NAPLES — Former Immokalee High School football and NFL star Edgerrin James will host his annual football skills camp Monday at the Immokalee Sports Complex. The camp is free for children ages 6-18 and is co-hosted by James’ cousin and current Indianapolis Colts running back Javarris James.

“This is something that the community looks forward to every year,” Immokalee High head football coach Jerrod Ackley said. “I’m excited to be able to take part in it, and I know a lot of our kids are as well.”

This year’s camp will mark the third year that Edgerrin James, who last played in the NFL with Seattle in 2009, has hosted the camp free of charge. Registration is from 8-9:30 a.m. and the camp runs until 3:30 p.m.

“Some of the kids on our team have been going to this camp since they were in middle school,” Ackley said. “They get a chance to see Edgerrin and see that it’s possible to make it and be successful if you’re from Immokalee.”

Rodelin Anthony, a former high school teammate of Javarris James who attended the University of Nevada-Las Vegas to play football, will be working at the event for the first time. He said he’s excited to get a chance to be part of an event he’s heard so much about.

“This isn’t just about the kids, it’s about the whole city of Immokalee coming together,” Anthony said. “It’s a huge event that everyone looks forward to and it’s a great thing.”

After the camp ends, James and the city of Immokalee host a pool party and barbeque from 3:30 to 8 p.m. at the Sports Complex. Last year, 1,100 children participated in the camp.

According to James’ foundation website, the camp will include other NFL players and members of NFL coaching staffs. On Sunday, Javarris James said on his Twitter feed that Sam Shields, a former University of Miami teammate who is a cornerback for the Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers, and Jeremy Ware, a defensive back for the Oakland Raiders, would be at the camp.

Campers are broken down and placed into groups based on age, size and skill level. The camp emphasizes basic fundamentals and skill development. In addition to football fundamentals, teamwork, sportsmanship and educational life skills are also emphasized.

Prior to the start of the camp, James will be honored by Collier County Commissioners who will proclaim Monday “Edgerrin James Day” in the county.

District 5 Commissioner Jim Coletta also will present a proclamation to James. The ceremony is scheduled for 8:15 a.m.

Click here to order Edgerrin James’ proCane Rookie Card.


(naplesnews.com)

As the release date for EA Sports “Madden 2012″ draws near (August 30th), player rating numbers are being floated around the blogosphere.  For Redskins fans, commence the gnashing of teeth.

According to a post by author “EA Sports” on the official Madden 12 blog entitled “Madden NFL 12 Rookie Ratings: Top Wide Receivers,” Leonard Hankerson ranks eighth among rookie receivers and a 67 overall.

Ouch.  For comparison’s sake, AJ Green of the Bengals was listed as an 80 overall, and Atlanta’s Julio Jones is a 78 overall.  Is Hankerson really only 84 percent the player that Green is?  Redskins and Miami University fans took to their keyboards in protest.


(redksins.com)

CB Kelly Jennings, Age: 28

The skinny: While much-maligned, the former first round pick has proved durable for Seattle, starting 44 games in his five-year career in Seattle. At 5-11, 180 pounds, at first glance Jennings doesn’t appear an ideal fit for Seattle’s press coverage scheme on the outside. Add to that the fact that it appears the Seahawks would like to clear a path for second-year product Walter Thurmond to start, and Jennings could be headed elsewhere, with Detroit or Houston as possible destinations. However, don’t rule out the possibility of Jennings returning to Seattle –at the right price.

Stay or go? The Seahawks bring back the reliable Jennings for continued depth at a need position.

Click here to order Kelly Jennings’ proCane Rookie Card.


(thenewstribune.com)

Collier County commissioners will proclaim Monday as Edgerrin James Day and the former Immokalee High star running back's free youth football camp in Immokalee.

District 5 Commissioner Jim Coletta will present a proclamation to James, who played for the Indianapolis Colts, Arizona Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks in his career. James co-hosts the camp with his cousin, Javarris, who is a running back for the Colts. Both Jameses played for the University of Miami.

The ceremony is scheduled for 8:15 a.m. at the Immokalee Sports Complex, 505 Escambia St.

Collier County Parks and Recreation is conducting the third annual camp from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Registration begins at 8 a.m.

The free camp offers kids ages 6 through high school the chance to learn football skills from NFL pros. Last year 1,100 participants attended the camp.

“This proclamation recognizes Edgerrin James’s generosity and commitment to his hometown of Immokalee,” Commissioner Coletta said. “The youth football camp continues to grow in popularity, and I anticipate this year’s camp to be another exciting day for the young people of Immokalee and the surrounding areas.

"Edgerrin’s camp engages each participant, from the beginner to the more seasoned athlete, giving them a chance to realize their potential in a safe and fun environment. Edgerrin James and the camp instructors should be commended for their commitment to positively influence young people.”

Each camper will be placed in groups based on similar age, size, and/or experience level. The camp emphasizes the basic fundamentals and skill development essential to improving football performance. Campers will receive valuable instruction on technique enhancements, teamwork, sportsmanship, and educational life skills.

Food and drinks for the campers will be provided throughout the day. Campers must wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes.
Following the football camp, James and the Immokalee Sports Complex will host a pool party for the kids from 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Parents will be invited to attend as well.

In 1999, James was drafted fourth overall by the Colts, and was named AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He holds the Colts’ team record for most career total yards rushing.

“On behalf of the Eastern Collier Chamber of Commerce (ECOC) and myself personally, I would like to thank our commissioners for recognizing one of our local heroes who has come back to help give our youth a better chance to be successful,” ECOC President Fred Thomas Jr. said.
Sign up for this camp by calling the Immokalee Sports Complex at (239) 657-1951 or visit www.edgerrinjamesfoundation.org

For more information, contact Collier County Parks and Recreation at (239) 252-4000 or visit www.collierparks.com.

Click here to order Edgerrin James’ proCane Rookie Card.


(naplesdailynews.com)

Phillip Buchanon – Used mostly as a third corner (he did make five starts), Buchanon proved to be a solid veteran, racking up 49 tackles, two interceptions and two forced fumbles. The Redskins would like to have him back, and Buchanon has them atop the list of places he would like to go. Last night, a close friend of Buchanon’s tweeted the cornerback’s wishlist for destinations, and Buchanon re-tweeted it. Washington ranked first, followed by Tampa Bay, Miami, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, New Orleans, Oakland and the Jets. But if the Redskins believe neither Kevin Barnes nor Buchanon are what they need in a starter, then they’ll let him walk, stick with Barnes as the third CB and bring in someone else.

Santana Moss – He’s the biggest name on this list, and was the Redskins’ leading wide receiver in each of the last six years. Although he is 32, Moss remains productive. Mike Shanahan has said he wants to re-sign Moss, and No. 89 himself is on record multiple times saying he wants to come back to Washington. It won’t be a surprise at all to see him back in a Redskins uniform.

Rocky McIntosh – He likes it here, and attended some of the player-led workouts this summer. But McIntosh probably is better suited to play outside linebacker in the 4-3 (as he did the first four seasons of his career) than he is inside linebacker in the 3-4 (where coaches moved him last season). It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Redskins let him move on. "This is my town, but I also want to win more than six or eight games a season," he said. "I want to go somewhere where I can fit in as a winner." McIntosh also said that versatility was one of his strengths and that he believes he could make even more strides in the Redskins' 3-4 defense if he stayed. Last season was a struggle for him at times. McIntosh appeared a bit uncomfortable as an inside linebacker in the odd front, having been a 4-3 weak-side linebacker previously and having his most success in that role.

Click here to order Phillip Buchanon’s, Rocky Mcintosh’s or Santana Moss’ proCane Rookie Card.


(washingtonpost.com)

I don’t think I’ve made any secret of the fact that I loved Clinton Portis’s costumes, his ridiculous press conferences, his “Portis Pockets Straight” and “53 Packages” quotes, even as other media members tired of them. The not practicing thing I could have lived without, but I think sports can get a good bit of life and verve from athletes with amusing personalities, as long as such personalities don’t get in the way of teamwork and results.

Not everyone agreed. Portis has implied several times over the years that he stopped doing the wacky personality bit because of media criticism and scrutiny, but I’ve never heard him expand on that thought as much as he did this week during an interview with Jim Rome. The radio host asked the former Redskins running back whether he’d be able to find a team that would embrace him for being who he is, allowing the characters to come back. Then this.

“I would love to, but it would have to be on the coach, it would have to be in an organization that let the players be themselves,” Portis said. “You know, I think so much is going on within the Redskins organization, where the individuality was being taken away. You know, if you look around, you’ll never see a billboard of a player for the Redskins. I think Donovan might have had the first one last year. They really don’t promote individuality. I think two years ago was the first time we started Pro Bowl balloting.

“So it’s just going to an organization that wants to see players go out and use their personality and be themselves and still bring it to the field and participate and give everything they can. That’s the kind of organization I want to end up in; i.e, perfect example is the Jets. You know, I think everybody on the Jets has fun. If you look at those guys, they’re flying around, they’re having fun. You look at the Packers, they were having fun. I don’t think you can take away the fun and the individuality in players and expect to get their all.”

Rome, being a wise host, extended the segment past what was supposed to be the last question, asking Portis whether it’s tough to be in a league that stresses conformity to such a degree.

“It is, and I think that takes a lot away from the NFL,” he said. “You look in the early days: you look when T.O. was T.O. and Chad Johnson was Chad Johnson and myself, those personalities. You can’t cover a personality and expect players to play the same. I don’t think if you had Deion Sanders on your team and you told Deion he can’t showboat or he can’t do anything, that the plays that he made are the same.

“I think that brings so much excitement to a team, that brings so much into a locker room. Of course you’re gonna always have haters, people who feel like you’re singling yourself out and you shouldn’t do that, but you can’t even celebrate as a team. You know, if you run and jump and high-five three or four of your teammates at one time, it’s a fine. There’s a lot going on that people don’t know about.

“It’s kind of hard to go out when everything is Plain Jane. And you’ve got to go out and you’re asked to do something, you’re asked to perform at the highest of levels, but after you perform, it’s kind of like you’ve got to go hug the referee, that’s the only person you can celebrate [with]. If you go throw the ball in the stands, it’s a fine. If you jump up in the sky and somebody else throw their hands up, it’s a team celebration and it’s a fine. So I think just having individuality in the game, finding a way for players to appreciate and have joy in what they’re doing is needed.”

This all started when Rome had asked Portis about his best football-playing experience, and he suggested it was the first playoff run under Joe Gibbs, when the running back had lugged a mediocre team into the postseason.

“We had some amazing times at the U, but I think my best time in the NFL was maybe 05-06 season,” Portis said. “The winning streak, sharing it with my teammates. I think me, Sean Taylor-- rest in peace — and Santana at that time had one of the most cherishable years and runs that you could find. I think if you go back to that, that’s the way a team was supposed to be. Every game was hard-fought, nobody ever gave up, we had guys such as Marcus Washington and those guys who hustled around the field, who stayed, and everybody energized each other.

“Myself, Sean and Santana, all the time we huddled up on the sideline, knowing that one of us had to spark a play or somebody had to make something happen, and it happened....That was one of the most memorable seasons that I’ve ever been a part of.”

Click here to order Clinton Portis’ proCane Rookie Card.


(washingtonpost.com)

Gaby Sanchez provided the Marlins with insurance runs in the seventh. Bonifacio started the two-out rally with a single that squeaked past shortstop Jose Reyes, and he stole second base — Bonifacio’s 21st steal of the season matched a career high set in 2009. After Infante reached on an infield single, with Bonifacio scoring on a subsequent error, Sanchez launched a high fly ball over the left-field wall for his second home run of the game. Sanchez last hit multiple home runs in a game against Tampa Bay on June 11, 2010.

“It doesn’t matter when you have it, it’s always nice to have a game like this,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez provided almost all the offense starter Clay Hensley needed. In his second start of the year and his second since returning from the disabled list, Hensley turned in a solid effort, pitching five strong innings, giving up two runs on four hits while walking four and striking out two.

“I felt pretty good,” said Hensley, who was the first Marlins pitcher in the past five games to get through the first inning unscathed. “Only thing I can take away from this one I think is just to try to limit the walks.”


(miamiherald.com)

NEW YORK -- When A's rookie second baseman Jemile Weeks arrived at Yankee Stadium on Friday afternoon, he immediately went out to the field to take it all in.

"You're talking a big deal, first time at Yankee Stadium," Weeks said. "It's an exciting time for me, just to look at the stadium and out into the stands to get a feel of what it's like."

Weeks certainly played inspired in his first visit to the ballpark. He went 3 for 6 with two RBIs, a bright spot for the A's in their 17-7 loss.

Weeks is hitting .315. Despite not being called up from Triple-A Sacramento until June 7, he entered Friday leading American League rookies in triples (three) and was ranked fourth in steals (10) and tied for fifth in multihit games (13).

Weeks showed no ill effects from fouling a ball off his right instep Tuesday against Detroit. He didn't play Wednesday against the Tigers and had Thursday's day off to get extra rest.


(chicoer.com)

Yonder Alonso is hitting .299 to go along with a .379 on-base percentage and .499 slugging percentage through his first 391 plate appearances fro Triple-A Louisville this season.

He's homered 12 times while notching 24 doubles, four triples and 56 RBI. Now 24 years old with 188 Triple-A games under his belt, Alonso is more than ready for a big-league promotion, but isn't terribly likely to get it before September unless he's traded out of Cincinnati. With the Reds looking for help on nearly all fronts, he's a decent bet to be moved.


(rotoworld.com)