I was rather surprised to see WR Torrey Holt placed on Injured Reserve with a season ending knee injury. At least he gets paid in full for the season. The 11 year veteran may have reached the end of the line, but you never know. He could be back next year for another round. It provides an opportunity for WR Buddy Farnham to be added to the roster.
The loss of Ty Warren is tough, but he has not been the same player the last few years because of a torn labrium in his hip. Nobody knows if he will ever be the same player. That's how it is in the NFL. Carers end way too soon.
It makes me laugh to think about people who talk about Tom Brady five years down the line. Do they know he will be playing?
The devestating implications of football injuries bothers me as a fan. It's a very violent game that produces a lot of human train wrecks. People suffer life long effects from the game. The NFL needs to do a better job in helping its former players.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Thursday, August 12, 2010
More From Rex
One of the things I like about Jets coach Rex Ryan is that he says some very ridiculous things.
He kept it going yesterday when asked about the contract negotiations with CB Darrell Reavis.
Ryan said that Reavis should get his people to sit down with the Jets front office as well as the entire Jets teams to try and finalize a deal.
It is difficult enough to come up with a deal, but adding another 79 voices will get nowhere. I don't think too many of the team's younger defensive backs really care if Reavis holds out. If he doesn't show up to camp, it's an opportunity for them.
Ryan needs to listen to himself to see how absurd some of his statements are.
He kept it going yesterday when asked about the contract negotiations with CB Darrell Reavis.
Ryan said that Reavis should get his people to sit down with the Jets front office as well as the entire Jets teams to try and finalize a deal.
It is difficult enough to come up with a deal, but adding another 79 voices will get nowhere. I don't think too many of the team's younger defensive backs really care if Reavis holds out. If he doesn't show up to camp, it's an opportunity for them.
Ryan needs to listen to himself to see how absurd some of his statements are.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
The Scrimmage
I attended the joint Pats practice/scrimmage with the Saints this afternoon. It was the 2nd session and drew about 10,000 fans. The place was packed. There are so many highlights and things to talk about.
It was great to be about 30 feet away from special team drills: seeing the kicking and punting game with both teams. Seven on seven was very insightful for me. The two minute drill, on-side kicking (even Randy Moss plays special teams) . This was really awesome.
A few things that really struck me: Coach Belichick screaming at the ball carrier to go out of bounds during a two minute drill. You could hear him very plainly.
Coach Belichick and Saints Coach Sean Payton standing on the field throughout the practice behind the quarterbacks. They also had several of their staff with them.
After a failed play, Tom Brady and Randy Moss stayed on the field and had a discussion . It was very friendly. Moss was drawing the play in the air.
All of a sudden, Belichick yelled: "get off the field". He was trying to work the defense against Saints QB Drew Brees.
There was so much going on today that I could never watch it all because they used two fields. I hope they do this again next year. The team will go to Atlanta next week and do the same practice/scrimmage with the Falcons. This is a great idea.
It was great to be about 30 feet away from special team drills: seeing the kicking and punting game with both teams. Seven on seven was very insightful for me. The two minute drill, on-side kicking (even Randy Moss plays special teams) . This was really awesome.
A few things that really struck me: Coach Belichick screaming at the ball carrier to go out of bounds during a two minute drill. You could hear him very plainly.
Coach Belichick and Saints Coach Sean Payton standing on the field throughout the practice behind the quarterbacks. They also had several of their staff with them.
After a failed play, Tom Brady and Randy Moss stayed on the field and had a discussion . It was very friendly. Moss was drawing the play in the air.
All of a sudden, Belichick yelled: "get off the field". He was trying to work the defense against Saints QB Drew Brees.
There was so much going on today that I could never watch it all because they used two fields. I hope they do this again next year. The team will go to Atlanta next week and do the same practice/scrimmage with the Falcons. This is a great idea.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Carroll Gets a Lawyer
Seattle Seahawks first year coach Pete Carroll remembers his days with Lawyer Milloy who played safety for Carroll during his tenure from 1997-1999 when he coached the Pats. Milloy was cut before the start of the 2004 season. He hooked up with Buffalo for three seasons before spending two in Atlanta and the last one in Seattle.
Milloy, a 15 year veteran, was pondering his next move other than retirement. The reuniting of Carroll and Milloy has gotten off to a great start. Milloy has been mentoring younger players and looks to play an active role in the Seahawk's defense.
Both Carroll and Milloy appear to be happy with the way things are working out. Their relationship is another example of how the NFL is one big network of players and coaches. So many players are given chances because of their relationships with their former coaches on the college or NFL level.
Milloy, a 15 year veteran, was pondering his next move other than retirement. The reuniting of Carroll and Milloy has gotten off to a great start. Milloy has been mentoring younger players and looks to play an active role in the Seahawk's defense.
Both Carroll and Milloy appear to be happy with the way things are working out. Their relationship is another example of how the NFL is one big network of players and coaches. So many players are given chances because of their relationships with their former coaches on the college or NFL level.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Rex On a Roll
Jets coach Rex Ryan is at it again with making outrageous comments. ESPN has a bus making various promotional stops at NFL training camps. Players and coaches have been signing it. Ryan wrote: "soon to be champions", an outright prediction that the Jets will win it all. He continued to support his statement during a press conference. He feels very confident about his team's chances and is letting the league know.
Brash comments are nothing new with Ryan, going back to last season with his statement about "not kissing Belichick's rings". I find Ryan's comments to be amusing. I'm actually a fan of his and the Jets. I think he adds entertainment value for the league.
Wes Welker took the typical team approach when he wrote "one game at a time " on the bus. I couldn't picture anything else from the Pats.
Brash comments are nothing new with Ryan, going back to last season with his statement about "not kissing Belichick's rings". I find Ryan's comments to be amusing. I'm actually a fan of his and the Jets. I think he adds entertainment value for the league.
Wes Welker took the typical team approach when he wrote "one game at a time " on the bus. I couldn't picture anything else from the Pats.
Friday, August 6, 2010
The Early Doubters
If I hear the talk show callers and "experts" correctly, the Pats will be lucky to finish 9-7, but most feel 8-8. This is based on the fact that over half of the players on the 80 roster have two years or less experience in the NFL. That is very true, but it doesn't really matter.
The final 53 man roster and practice squad will be heavy with young players. That is the trend of the team right now. The game is so much about the present and young players.
It's still very important to have mix of veterans on the roster. I have no idea where this team is going this year. Pre-season games don't really mean anything as far as winning and losing in the regular season. Don't ever get Coach Belichick in a discussion about pre-season games.
Overall, I feel good about this team. Hopefully, they can avoid the type of injuries that will destroy the season.
The final 53 man roster and practice squad will be heavy with young players. That is the trend of the team right now. The game is so much about the present and young players.
It's still very important to have mix of veterans on the roster. I have no idea where this team is going this year. Pre-season games don't really mean anything as far as winning and losing in the regular season. Don't ever get Coach Belichick in a discussion about pre-season games.
Overall, I feel good about this team. Hopefully, they can avoid the type of injuries that will destroy the season.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Fred Taylor and a Roster Spot
Fred Taylor really had it right when he was quoted as saying: "This game is for the younger guys".
No doubt that Taylor will be turning 35 during the week of the AFC Championship game if the Pats ever get to that point. Time is really hanging over his head as well as Sammy Morris (33) and Kevin Faulke (34).
This is the oldest backfield in the league. Let's not forget Laurence Maroney (25), BenJavris Green-Ellis (25) and Chris Taylor (26).
They won't carry more than four backs on the active roster. I have no idea how this will end up, but two of these six guys will not be around when the season opens.
That is one of the harsh realities of the NFL. At this point, I don't think anyone has a roster spot. I think the four pre-season games will tell a lot about who makes the final roster.
No doubt that Taylor will be turning 35 during the week of the AFC Championship game if the Pats ever get to that point. Time is really hanging over his head as well as Sammy Morris (33) and Kevin Faulke (34).
This is the oldest backfield in the league. Let's not forget Laurence Maroney (25), BenJavris Green-Ellis (25) and Chris Taylor (26).
They won't carry more than four backs on the active roster. I have no idea how this will end up, but two of these six guys will not be around when the season opens.
That is one of the harsh realities of the NFL. At this point, I don't think anyone has a roster spot. I think the four pre-season games will tell a lot about who makes the final roster.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
A Differnet Version
As much as I follow the NFL, I have a very poor knowledge of college football. When draft time arrives, I'm lost on many of the names.
The Pats drafted QB Zac Robinson in the 7th round, the 250th player selected. I did some research on him. They have another version of Tim Tebow.
While at Oklahoma State, he set a slew of passing and total offense records. He is an excellent runner and presents all sorts of options to the Pats. He has even caught passes.
Today, I attended training camp practice for the second time this week. Both times, Robinson was playing on punt and kick teams in spite of wearing a red jersey.
I finally realized the Pats now have either their version of Tim Tebow or another Julien Edeleman. This guy has a spot on at least the practice squad.
The Pats drafted QB Zac Robinson in the 7th round, the 250th player selected. I did some research on him. They have another version of Tim Tebow.
While at Oklahoma State, he set a slew of passing and total offense records. He is an excellent runner and presents all sorts of options to the Pats. He has even caught passes.
Today, I attended training camp practice for the second time this week. Both times, Robinson was playing on punt and kick teams in spite of wearing a red jersey.
I finally realized the Pats now have either their version of Tim Tebow or another Julien Edeleman. This guy has a spot on at least the practice squad.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Advantage Favre
Brett Favre has announced that he will retire instead of reporting to the Vikings training camp. The team has said that it will give Favre more time to decide and possibly more money. Last year, Favre didn't report to camp until after the second pre-season game.
This looks like a ploy by Favre to get a few more dollars from the Vikings. He has them over a barrel. The team has allowed itself to become hostage to a 41 year old quarterback.
Favre has had a brilliant career. His numbers may never be surpassed other than by Peyton Manning. I am a big fan of his for his gritty style of play.
The Vikings should be embarrassed for allowing themselves to get into this situation. Favre is still one of the best quarterbacks out there, but how could you let yourself be strung along by a player of his age?
Why don't they try and solidify their defense by signing Junior Seau? He won't be 42 until January.
This looks like a ploy by Favre to get a few more dollars from the Vikings. He has them over a barrel. The team has allowed itself to become hostage to a 41 year old quarterback.
Favre has had a brilliant career. His numbers may never be surpassed other than by Peyton Manning. I am a big fan of his for his gritty style of play.
The Vikings should be embarrassed for allowing themselves to get into this situation. Favre is still one of the best quarterbacks out there, but how could you let yourself be strung along by a player of his age?
Why don't they try and solidify their defense by signing Junior Seau? He won't be 42 until January.
Vince is Leading
It's great to see #75, Vince Wilfolk, taking a bigger leadership role with the team after signing a recent contract extension. Vince is being paid quite well and should be a spokesperson for the team.
We all know that Tom Brady is the poster boy of the franchise. He is a brand unto himself. Nobody knows what will happen with his contract or what his future is with the Pats.
Vince will be around here for the rest of his career. They have a huge amount of money invested in him. It's very interesting to see that he is the poster boy for their team schedule that is available at the team's pro-shop at Gillette Stadium.
Apparently, the team has decided that Brady cannot be in every photo so they decided to have Vince be the cover picture of the schedule. Too bad he has to share it with an ad for Bud Light on the reverse side.
We all know that Tom Brady is the poster boy of the franchise. He is a brand unto himself. Nobody knows what will happen with his contract or what his future is with the Pats.
Vince will be around here for the rest of his career. They have a huge amount of money invested in him. It's very interesting to see that he is the poster boy for their team schedule that is available at the team's pro-shop at Gillette Stadium.
Apparently, the team has decided that Brady cannot be in every photo so they decided to have Vince be the cover picture of the schedule. Too bad he has to share it with an ad for Bud Light on the reverse side.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Patten at the End of the Line
The sudden retirement of WR David Patten on Saturday caught many by surprise. With only two days of training camp, Patten announced that he was physically fine, but was having trouble with the mental aspect of training camp.
The Pats are loaded with receivers. There is expected to be a great deal of competition for roster spots. Patten sat out last season after being released by the Cleveland Browns in the final cut of camp.
Perhaps, Patten wanted to avoid this. He sat out last season after getting no additional opportunities to play. He contacted Coach Belichick in the off-season and a deal was done to bring him back. He was very active in the OTA's.
At the age of 36, time was catching up to him. Last season ,Tedy Bruschi was in the same predicament. He said it so eloquently:" you have a beginning of a career, a middle and the end". Patten must have felt he reached this final stage.
Not many players leave on their own terms. They either retire on their own, get released or ended by injuries. Patten chose to leave on his terms. I am very happy for such an outstanding player.
The Pats are loaded with receivers. There is expected to be a great deal of competition for roster spots. Patten sat out last season after being released by the Cleveland Browns in the final cut of camp.
Perhaps, Patten wanted to avoid this. He sat out last season after getting no additional opportunities to play. He contacted Coach Belichick in the off-season and a deal was done to bring him back. He was very active in the OTA's.
At the age of 36, time was catching up to him. Last season ,Tedy Bruschi was in the same predicament. He said it so eloquently:" you have a beginning of a career, a middle and the end". Patten must have felt he reached this final stage.
Not many players leave on their own terms. They either retire on their own, get released or ended by injuries. Patten chose to leave on his terms. I am very happy for such an outstanding player.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
No Landing For Logan
Logan Mankins continues his holdout from training camp. As Coach Belichick indicated, Mankins is not in camp because he is not under contract.
Mankins rejected a restricted free agent contract tender as well as a 5 year $35 million offer from the Pats. He is looking to be paid as one of the league's top offensive linemen.
Mankins is making a big mistake if he thinks the team is going to increase their offer. I have no doubt that his days with the Pats are over. Paying him more would set a bad precedent. He is a Pro Bowl player who has never missed a game or practice, but one player does not make a team.
The team has a surplus of linemen. Nick Kaczur has been moved from right tackle to his left guard spot. Sebastian Vollmer is playing tackle on the right side. The team is moving forward with or without Mankins. It doesn't really matter at this point whether Mankins shows up. The season will move on regardless.
Mankins rejected a restricted free agent contract tender as well as a 5 year $35 million offer from the Pats. He is looking to be paid as one of the league's top offensive linemen.
Mankins is making a big mistake if he thinks the team is going to increase their offer. I have no doubt that his days with the Pats are over. Paying him more would set a bad precedent. He is a Pro Bowl player who has never missed a game or practice, but one player does not make a team.
The team has a surplus of linemen. Nick Kaczur has been moved from right tackle to his left guard spot. Sebastian Vollmer is playing tackle on the right side. The team is moving forward with or without Mankins. It doesn't really matter at this point whether Mankins shows up. The season will move on regardless.
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