Offseason Discussion Thread

Here is where you can post information about everything this offseason.

Dates to Remember:

February 11 - Waiver process begins

February 20-26 - NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana

February 21 - Deadline for teams to designate Franchise and Transition Players

February 28 - Deadline for submission of Qualifying Offers by teams to their Restricted Free Agents whose contracts have expired and to whom they desire to retain a Right of First Refulsal/Compensation

February 28 - Deadline for teams to submit offer of minimum salary to retain exclusive negotiating righs to their players with fewer than three seasons of free agency credit whose contracts have expired

February 29 - Start of Free Agency and Trading period

March 17 - Begin Offseason Workout Programs

March 30-April 3 - NFL Annual Meeting in Palm Beach, Florida

April 25 - Deadline for teams to exercise Right of First Refusal to Restricted Free Agents

April 18 - Deadline for signing of Offer Sheets by Restricted Free Agents

April 25 - Deadline for old team to exercise Right of First Refusal to Restricted Free Agents

April 26-27 - NFL Draft in New York City

May 19-21 - NFL Spring Meeting in Atlanta, Georgia

June 1 - Deadline for old team to send tender offer to its unsigned Restricted Free Agents or to extend Qualifying offer, whichever is greater, in order to retain rights

June 1 - Deadline for old team to send tender offer to its unsigned Restricted Free Agents to retain rights if player is not signed by another team by July 22

June 29 -July 2 - Rookie Symposium in Carlsbad, California

July - NFL teams begin Training Camp

August 3 - Hall of Fame game in Canton, Ohio

August 26 - Roster reduction to 75 players


August 30 - Roster reduction to 53 players


September 4-8 - NFL Regular Season begins

2 things, aren't we all happy for the Giants?

And second, what about Union events?

Sure we are happy bout the g-men

still cant belive the season over

I actually watch the probowl just to get a last glimpse of action

Can't wait to see who the Carolina Panthers pick in the Draft, and also Jake Delhomme will be back and better then ever.wwe4ever_in05

Yeah, I read that too though it doesn't surprise me that he would say that.

when are they making the official week by week scheadule??? i didnt see that on the timeline thing

when are they making the official week by week scheadule??? i didnt see that on the timeline thing

Ryder004

Someone already did that earlier this year or so.

At this Link: http://www.gamespot.com/pages/unions/forums/show_msgs.php?topic_id=26181725&union_id=448

[QUOTE="Ryder004"]

when are they making the official week by week scheadule??? i didnt see that on the timeline thing

wwe4ever_in05

Someone already did that earlier this year or so.

At this Link: http://www.gamespot.com/pages/unions/forums/show_msgs.php?topic_id=26181725&union_id=448

no no no, i already know the scheadule, what i tried to say was when are they making a DATED scheadule, cause im gona buy tickets for TB@DAL game, and the earlier u buy the plane ticket the cheaper they cost.

btw: for all u dallas fans, do u guys horace opposing fans at texas stadium?? like oakland fans???

im not trying to pick on u guys but the only games i been to was oakland games and they always be horacing opposing fans, good thing i wasnt a fan of any team cause my best friend is a hardcore raider fan and he always gets tickets to go and we go about 3 or 4 games per season.

rumor from radio, i tried to type it as best as i remember it:

Look For Bucs To Add Michael Turner And Bernard Berrian:

Gruden has no choice but to spend some big cap money on adding some weapons to the offense...

Michael Turner (at least on paper) is a Gruden dream-come-true. He's a fast, elusive back that would be a nightmare coming out of the backfield on passing routes. He creates those mismatches that Gruden loves to isolate.

Turner would give the Bucs a solid 1-2 punch at RB along with Graham. Caddy will most likely never play football again due to his unfortunate injury.

Bernard Berrian is the big-play receiver that Bucs offense needs opposite Galloway; and who knows how much longer Galloway can even contribute. Berrian will come at a much lower price than some of the other "marquee" WR names like Chad Johnson, etc.

Ravens to use franchise on Suggs if he can't be resigned

-I personally think that Suggs will still look for a raise. Franchise tags only offer what, like 7 million? (Well, I shoudln't say only) Suggs, like many other past figures, will likely still look for a higher paying contract... considering he even wants to stay with the Ravens.

Seahawks Runningback Coach Mitchell hired with the Redskins

-Mitchell did good with a Maurice Morris in Seattle, I wonder what he could do with Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts. But the fact that Shaun Alexander couldn't be kept alive (of course, not literally. Figuratively) shouldn't be ignored.

Goodell and a US Senator consult the Bills, concerned about their future

-I personally want the Bills to go to Canada... But I can understand the rationale behind the meeting.

Goodell offers legal protection for a former Pats employee when the meet on the topic of Spygate

-SMH@ the Pats... Embarrassing for them.

Ravens to use franchise on Suggs if he can't be resigned

-I personally think that Suggs will still look for a raise. Franchise tags only offer what, like 7 million? (Well, I shoudln't say only) Suggs, like many other past figures, will likely still look for a higher paying contract... considering he even wants to stay with the Ravens.

detroitpistons0

Panthers sign safety Harris to four-year extension

Convinced they have found their anchor at strong safety, the Carolina Panthers signed Chris Harris to a four-year contract extension Thursday that will keep him with the team through the 2012 season.

Harris, who led the NFL and set a team record with eight forced fumbles last season, had one year left on his original deal.

"We decided to forego free agency and stay there because he was real happy," said Albert Elias, Harris' agent. "They made a fair offer."

Elias said Harris' deal is for $13.3 million over the next five years, a total that includes some incentives. Harris will receive a $2 million signing bonus this year and a $1 million roster bonus in 2009.

The Panthers were desperate for safety help during training camp last year when Nate Salley injured a knee and veteran Mike Minter was contemplating retirement. Carolina acquired Harris from Chicago for a fifth-round pick, and Minter retired a few days later.

Harris, who had fallen down the depth chart with the Bears, went on to have his best his best season as a pro.

Elias said he first discussed a contract extension with general manager Marty Hurney after Carolina's loss to Atlanta on Nov. 11. Discussions heated up over the past few weeks.

"This gives him some security and lets him play for a team that he really loves," Elias said.

Harris, who played at Louisiana-Monroe and was not invited to the NFL combine, was the Bears' sixth-round draft pick in 2005. He intercepted Peyton Manning in Chicago's loss to Indianapolis in the 2007 Super Bowl. --AP NEWS

Back for More: Bennett Re-Signs with Bucs

RB Michael Bennett has a career average of 4.5 yards per carry, and he exceeded that after joining the Buccaneers via trade last October

Feb 15, 2008 - Midseason trades are rare in the NFL because it's difficult for any player, no matter how talented, to step into a foreign system and produce immediate results.

Jon Gruden emphasized that point several times during the second half of the 2007 season, as a result of his team's trading-deadline deal for Kansas City running back Michael Bennett. Indeed, Bennett showed flashes of brilliance in his eight games as a Buccaneer, averaging 4.6 yards per carry, but there wasn't enough time for him to become a significant part of the team's attack.

Now, however, there is plenty of time for the Bucs and their new back to explore their possibilities together. On Friday, the Buccaneers announced that Bennett has signed a multi-year deal to remain in Tampa; he was previously due to become an unrestricted free agent in March.

Had Bennett chosen to explore free agency, he could have started anew with any team in the NFL. Instead, he preempted the open market and re-upped with the Bucs, indicating that both he and the team believe he can be productive in Gruden's offense.

Known primarily for his top-end speed, the 5-9, 207-pound Bennett has an outstanding career average of 4.5 yards per carry. He was most prolific during a five-year stint in Minnesota (2001-05) after the Vikings made him a first-round draft pick out of Wisconsin, but Bennett has remained productive in more limited roles in Kansas City and Tampa.

After his October 16 trade to the Buccaneers, Bennett showed that he could run between the tackles but was particularly dangerous on the perimeter, whether by run or pass. As a Buccaneer, he carried 41 times for 189 yards and a touchdown and caught five passes for 54 yards and another score.

Brian Kelly.....a free agent

Kelly paid the Bucs $453,000 by Thursday's deadline to void the final year of his deal.

The Bucs will miss Kelly. At 6-foot-1, 190 pounds, he was one of the most physical corners in the NFL. While he has had some injury problems the past two seasons, the Bucs won about 40 percent of their games when he wasn't in the lineup since 2001, according to his agent.

Suddenly, the Bucs biggest need might be the cornerback position. Ronde Barber turns 33 in April. Phillip Buchanon has progressed nicely, but the Bucs need another corner to allow Barber to slide inside to the slot position on passing downs.

Kelly has 22 career interceptions and his best year came in 2002 when the Bucs won the Super Bowl. Barber has received a lot more attention and accolades, but Kelly also viewed himself as Robin to Barber's Batman.

Now the dynamic duo is no more. Granted, Kelly has been limited by injuries the past two seasons. He still managed to make a good contribution last season, including a game-ending interception against the Redskins.

More importantly, he was a quiet leader in the locker room. But you can trust defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin to re-stock that position.

Chiefs cut starting guard Welbourn; Ty Law expected to be released.

(AP) -- The Kansas City Chiefs have released offensive guard John Welbourn in what figures to be the beginning of a postseason roster shakeup.

The 31-year-old Welbourn, who was released Thursday, started every game last season at right guard. Right tackle Chris Terry, a part-time starter, was let go late in the year.

The Chiefs might also choose to not re-sign starting center Casey Wiegmann and CB Ty Law.

The Chiefs are expected to release Ty Law instead of paying him a $6.5 million base salary in 2008, according to The Boston Globe. If Law is released, those close to him say he would be open to the possibility of a return to the Patriots at the right price.

Redskins tab Smith as O-coordinator

(AP) -- The Washington Redskins completed their coaching staff under new coach Jim Zorn, hiring Sherman Smith as offensive coordinator Friday.

Smith comes from the Tennessee Titans, where he was the running backs coach since 1995 as well as an assistant head coach for the last two seasons.

Smith said he was drawn by the chance to reunite with ex-teammate Zorn. The two played together for the Seahawks in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Zorn said earlier this week that he would call the plays if Smith accepted the coordinator position.

Bucs expected to target Coleman, Crumpler

The Bucs likely will express interest in two former Pro Bowl players - DT Rod Coleman and TE Alge Crumpler. But according to NFL transaction logs, neither player has been released yet by the Falcons. Once their release is made official, the Bucs likely will inquire about their availability and possibly arrange visits with both players. -LINK-

Bears release Muhammad, sign Brown to two-year extension

The Chicago Bears released wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad Monday, but reached a two-year extension with defensive end Alex Brown.

The Muhammad release wasn't much of a surprise. His pass reception numbers have dropped in each of the past three seasons. (64 passes in 2005, 60 in 2006 and only 40 in 2007) At the age of 34, he was entering the final 2 years of a 5-year contract. The timing of the release was curious, though, because wide receiver Bernard Berrian is a free agent and is considered one of the top free agents available.

Brown's two-year extension was a little surprising. He was entering the final year of his contract and had expressed some unhappiness early last season about his playing time. He started only two games in 2007. Despite that, he had 41 tackles and 4½ sacks.

Chiefs ink kicker Cundiff to two-year deal; Franchise tag DE Allen

The Kansas City Chiefs signed kicker Billy Cundiff to a two-year contract Monday in an attempt to resolve one of their most glaring weaknesses from last season.

The Chiefs also agreed to two-year deals with five others Monday: safety Erick Harris, defensive tackle T.J. Jackson, cornerback Chad Johnson, tackle Joe Lobdell and guard Rob Smith.

Franchise tag on DE Jared Allen

Zach Thomas gets offer from Patriots, will visit New Orleans

The Patriots offered a contract to former Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas on Monday, reports NFL Network's Adam Schefter.

Thomas and his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, visited New England on Monday and will continue negotiations with the team. Thomas is scheduled to visit with the New Orleans Saints on Tuesday.

The Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, Denver Broncos, Buffalo Bills and New York Jets are also interested in bringing Thomas in for a visit.

Ravens put franchise tag on Suggs

(AP) -- The Baltimore Ravens designated two-time Pro Bowl OLB Terrell Suggs as their franchise player Tuesday, a move that prevents him from becoming an UFA at the end of the month.

Suggs will be paid a one-year contract of $8.065 million, the average salary of the five highest paid linebackers in the NFL last season according to NFL Players Association figures.

Colts franchise tag Dallas Clark

After failing to reach a long-term agreement with Dallas Clark, the Indianapolis Colts placed the franchise tag on their tight end on Tuesday.

Negotiations with Clark, whose contract voided after the 2007 season, heated up toward the end of the season, but without resolution. The Colts instead reached agreement on a 5-year, $37.5M contract with safety Bob Sanders, the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year. Talks with Clark resumed in the past week, but with no deal in sight, the Colts felt it necessary to designate him as their franchise player.

The one-year franchise tender for a tight end is $4.522 million.

Indy locked up another starting offensive player on Tuesday by reaching a 5-yr deal with G Ryan Lilja.

Panthers franchise tag Jordan Gross

The Panthers decided Tuesday to place the franchise tag on Jordan Gross, all but assuring the RT will remain in Carolina next season.

After failing to agree on a long-term deal, the Panthers offered Gross a one-year contract for $7.45M, which is the average salary of the top five highest-paid offensive linemen in the NFL from last season.

Multi-year extension for Coughlin expected soon

Negotiations over a new deal, first reported Tuesday by Newsday, are ongoing and expected to be completed before the end of the week. Coughlin, 61, will receive a substantial bump in pay to about $5M a year for four years. LINK

Seahawks franchise tag Pro Bowl CB Trufant

The Seahawks slapped their franchise tag on cornerback Marcus Trufant on Wednesday, NFL Network's Adam Schefter is reporting.

The move allows the team to continue discussing a long-term contract. As the franchise player, his one-year contract would be worth $9.465 million.

Trufant, who played in the Pro Bowl earlier this month, finished the 2007 season, his fifth, with 7 INTs.

Bengals slap franchise tag on lineman Andrews for 2008 season

Panthers place franchise tag on T Gross

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- The Panthers decided Tuesday to place the franchise tag on Jordan Gross, all but assuring the right tackle will remain in Carolina next season.

After failing to agree on a long-term deal, the Panthers offered Gross a one-year contract for $7.45 million, which is the average salary of the top five highest-paid offensive linemen in the NFL from last season.

While the franchise tag doesn't prevent another team from offering Gross a contract, the Panthers can match any offer. If they don't, the team that signs him would have to give up two first-round picks to the Panthers in return.

SOURCE

Browns offering Derek Anderson three-year deal

The Cleveland Browns are optimistic they will sign quarterback Derek Anderson by next Thursday's free agency deadline.

"Talks have been a little more frequent in recent days," team GM Phil Savage said in an e-mail, according to The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer. "It seems that the three-year deal is becoming more the focus. We've had pretty good dialogue and will continue over the [NFL scouting] combine."

And in an interview on WKYC-TV in Cleveland, Savage said he was optimistic.

"I do feel like [an Anderson deal] is going to get done. I have reason to think it will get done," Savage said in the interview, according to the Plain Dealer. "We'll continue to work on it, but I do think it will go down to the days before free agency."

Anderson, who won 10 games and threw 29 touchdown passes in his first season as a starter, is scheduled to become a restricted free agent on Feb. 29. If the Browns can't lock him up with a long-term deal before then, they can tender him with a one-year contract worth $2.52 million.

Packers release TE Franks, tag DT Williams

The Green Bay Packers have designated defensive tackle Corey Williams as their franchise player and released tight end Bubba Franks. The transactions were announced Wednesday by Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson. -LINK-

Tight end Clark reaches six-year deal with Colts

Tight end Dallas Clark, one of Peyton Manning's favorite receivers, signed a six-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts on Wednesday, one day after the team placed the franchise tag on him.

Terms were not disclosed, but the deal is believed to have made Clark one of the league's highest-paid tight ends. It puts him in the Colts' expanding club of highly paid players, a list that already includes Manning, Pro Bowl receivers Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne, defensive end Dwight Freeney and safety Bob Sanders.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3255337

Titans make Haynesworth their franchise player

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Tennessee Titans have tagged defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth as their franchise player to keep him from leaving as a free agent.

Haynesworth

The Titans had told Haynesworth's agent last week that they intended to tag him as a franchise player. The move allows the team to continue discussing a long-term contract that must be reached by July 15.

But other teams can talk to Haynesworth and sign him to an offer. The Titans either could match that offer or receive two first-round draft picks as compensation for losing the defensive tackle.

Haynesworth is coming off his best season as a professional. He had a career-high six sacks in his sixth season in 2007.

ok espurus dont mod me, but this aint a rumor its a deal goingthrough:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3252668

Patriots make offer to former Dolphins linebacker Thomas

Always looking to turn another team's castoffs into their stars, the New England Patriots offered newly released and longtime Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas a contract Monday, according to a published report.

Zach Thomas

Linebacker
Miami Dolphins

Thomas made New England the first destination on his offseason tour of free agency stops.

"We had a great visit in New England," Thomas' agent, Drew Rosenhaus, told The Miami Herald in a text message Monday evening. "They offered him a contract and we will continue negotiations."

Next up for Thomas is a stop in New Orleans to visit with the Saints. On Wednesday, Thomas is expected to meet with the Cowboys.

Thomas, 34, was released by the Dolphins on Feb. 14 after playing in only five games in 2007. He missed most of last season because of concussions and migraines and was placed on injured reserve against his wishes in December because of nagging migraines, an after-effect of an Oct. 21 car crash.

Thomas' age doesn't appear to be an issue for the Patriots. Current New England linebacker Junior Seau is 39 while Tedy Bruschi is three months older than Thomas. Both Seau and Bruschi are free agents.

Thomas, a seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker and one of the most popular and productive players ever to wear a Dolphins uniform, was the 154th player chosen in the 1996 draft out of Texas Tech.

Thomas led the Dolphins in tackles 10 times during his 12-year stay in South Florida and is the franchise's all-time leader in that category by a wide margin. His 168 games is the most by any Miami defensive player.

Thomas was remarkably durable in his first 11 seasons, missing only 13 games, and recorded a career-best 165 tackles in 2006 -- an indication he wasn't exactly slowing down.

Browns offering Derek Anderson three-year deal

JackBurton

So I guess the Browns have made their decision. I think they'll try to keep Brady Quinn for another year as insurance, just in case 2007 was a fluke for Anderson, then trade him away.

[QUOTE="JackBurton"]

Browns offering Derek Anderson three-year deal

wallymartin

So I guess the Browns have made their decision. I think they'll try to keep Brady Quinn for another year as insurance, just in case 2007 was a fluke for Anderson, then trade him away.

Yeah that mostly the idea, but as long as Anderson can get a good deal then maybe he will be kept around for awhile, but I do see where your coming from Wally.

But still Anderson will be a good player to sign to a deal just so that then the Browns can go and worry about the Darft coming up.

As for Brady Quinn he will be playing more often with this being his second season.

[QUOTE="wallymartin"][QUOTE="JackBurton"]

Browns offering Derek Anderson three-year deal

wwe4ever_in05

So I guess the Browns have made their decision. I think they'll try to keep Brady Quinn for another year as insurance, just in case 2007 was a fluke for Anderson, then trade him away.

Yeah that mostly the idea, but as long as Anderson can get a good deal then maybe he will be kept around for awhile, but I do see where your coming from Wally.

But still Anderson will be a good player to sign to a deal just so that then the Browns can go and worry about the Darft coming up.

As for Brady Quinn he will be playing more often with this being his second season.

Either you misunderstood me, or I am misunderstanding you, I'm not sure which, so I'll clarify anyway. If they are giving Anderson 3 more years on his contract, it means they want him as the QB. Brady Quinn will probably be gone in the next year or so, just long enough for Anderson to prove he can keep his playing level high.

As the 22nd overall pick, Quinn's contract was 5 years at approx $20.5M (8M bonus?) with an extra $10M in incentives he likely won't reach, if not roster bonuses, as a back-up. (JaMarcus was paid $30M in bonus alone!) So, unless they get Steve Walsh trade value (1st, 2nd and 3rd round picks), they are in a unique position to keep both QB's and may elect to do so just because they can. Why not? :)

ok espurus dont mod me, but this aint a rumor its a deal goingthrough:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3252668

Patriots make offer to former Dolphins linebacker Thomas

Always looking to turn another team's castoffs into their stars, the New England Patriots offered newly released and longtime Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas a contract Monday, according to a published report.

Zach Thomas

Linebacker
Miami Dolphins

Thomas made New England the first destination on his offseason tour of free agency stops.

"We had a great visit in New England," Thomas' agent, Drew Rosenhaus, told The Miami Herald in a text message Monday evening. "They offered him a contract and we will continue negotiations."

Next up for Thomas is a stop in New Orleans to visit with the Saints. On Wednesday, Thomas is expected to meet with the Cowboys.

Thomas, 34, was released by the Dolphins on Feb. 14 after playing in only five games in 2007. He missed most of last season because of concussions and migraines and was placed on injured reserve against his wishes in December because of nagging migraines, an after-effect of an Oct. 21 car crash.

Thomas' age doesn't appear to be an issue for the Patriots. Current New England linebacker Junior Seau is 39 while Tedy Bruschi is three months older than Thomas. Both Seau and Bruschi are free agents.

Thomas, a seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker and one of the most popular and productive players ever to wear a Dolphins uniform, was the 154th player chosen in the 1996 draft out of Texas Tech.

Thomas led the Dolphins in tackles 10 times during his 12-year stay in South Florida and is the franchise's all-time leader in that category by a wide margin. His 168 games is the most by any Miami defensive player.

Thomas was remarkably durable in his first 11 seasons, missing only 13 games, and recorded a career-best 165 tackles in 2006 -- an indication he wasn't exactly slowing down.

Ryder004

Espurs got OWNED!

[QUOTE="Ryder004"]

ok espurus dont mod me, but this aint a rumor its a deal goingthrough:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3252668

Patriots make offer to former Dolphins linebacker Thomas

Always looking to turn another team's castoffs into their stars, the New England Patriots offered newly released and longtime Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas a contract Monday, according to a published report.

Zach Thomas

Linebacker
Miami Dolphins

Thomas made New England the first destination on his offseason tour of free agency stops.

"We had a great visit in New England," Thomas' agent, Drew Rosenhaus, told The Miami Herald in a text message Monday evening. "They offered him a contract and we will continue negotiations."

Next up for Thomas is a stop in New Orleans to visit with the Saints. On Wednesday, Thomas is expected to meet with the Cowboys.

Thomas, 34, was released by the Dolphins on Feb. 14 after playing in only five games in 2007. He missed most of last season because of concussions and migraines and was placed on injured reserve against his wishes in December because of nagging migraines, an after-effect of an Oct. 21 car crash.

Thomas' age doesn't appear to be an issue for the Patriots. Current New England linebacker Junior Seau is 39 while Tedy Bruschi is three months older than Thomas. Both Seau and Bruschi are free agents.

Thomas, a seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker and one of the most popular and productive players ever to wear a Dolphins uniform, was the 154th player chosen in the 1996 draft out of Texas Tech.

Thomas led the Dolphins in tackles 10 times during his 12-year stay in South Florida and is the franchise's all-time leader in that category by a wide margin. His 168 games is the most by any Miami defensive player.

Thomas was remarkably durable in his first 11 seasons, missing only 13 games, and recorded a career-best 165 tackles in 2006 -- an indication he wasn't exactly slowing down.

speedjunkie4

Espurs got OWNED!

So because they make an offer he got owned? Thomas visited the Saints today, and he has scheduled other visits as well.

^^

chill out guys i said its a deal i never said its gona happen, read what it actually says

Don't wanna hear this Zach Thomas going to NE rumor at all....so lets just leave it at that okay? If anyone speaks about it....I will mod you!Espurs117

[QUOTE="Ryder004"]

ok espurus dont mod me, but this aint a rumor its a deal goingthrough:

Patriots make offer to former Dolphins linebacker Thomas

Always looking to turn another team's castoffs into their stars, the New England Patriots offered newly released and longtime Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas a contract Monday, according to a published report.

Thomas made New England the first destination on his offseason tour of free agency stops.

"We had a great visit in New England," Thomas' agent, Drew Rosenhaus, told The Miami Herald in a text message Monday evening. "They offered him a contract and we will continue negotiations."

Next up for Thomas is a stop in New Orleans to visit with the Saints. On Wednesday, Thomas is expected to meet with the Cowboys. ... speedjunkie4

Espurs got OWNED!

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: (out of five)

[QUOTE="wwe4ever_in05"][QUOTE="wallymartin"][QUOTE="JackBurton"]

Browns offering Derek Anderson three-year deal

wallymartin

So I guess the Browns have made their decision. I think they'll try to keep Brady Quinn for another year as insurance, just in case 2007 was a fluke for Anderson, then trade him away.

Yeah that mostly the idea, but as long as Anderson can get a good deal then maybe he will be kept around for awhile, but I do see where your coming from Wally.

But still Anderson will be a good player to sign to a deal just so that then the Browns can go and worry about the Darft coming up.

As for Brady Quinn he will be playing more often with this being his second season.

Either you misunderstood me, or I am misunderstanding you, I'm not sure which, so I'll clarify anyway. If they are giving Anderson 3 more years on his contract, it means they want him as the QB. Brady Quinn will probably be gone in the next year or so, just long enough for Anderson to prove he can keep his playing level high.

I think JackBurton Says it the best.....

As the 22nd overall pick, Quinn's contract was 5 years at approx $20.5M (8M bonus?) with an extra $10M in incentives he likely won't reach, if not roster bonuses, as a back-up. (JaMarcus was paid $30M in bonus alone!) So, unless they get Steve Walsh trade value (1st, 2nd and 3rd round picks), they are in a unique position to keep both QB's and may elect to do so just because they can. Why not?
JackBurton

And Wally I did understand what you were saying, but like I said earlier, JackBurton says it best.

Speedjunkie : The only reason I did the thread was because anyone with a brain knew the Pats were gonna make an offer, but some of you are just too stupid enough to realize the obvious. It's not your fault tho Speedjunkie, I was dumb back when I was 14 too. Not that dumb, but you know.

Burton : Nice. You had more smiles than words yet I still got bored.

Ryder : It's Espurs...not Espurus....you keep misspelling. And no I don't have a problem with you to answer your previous question. I had told Wallly and Bobbles I was gonna mess with you about yoru motto to see if I could get you to remove it. It was only a joke, I didn't actuallyl get offended by it.

Speedjunkie : The only reason I did the thread was because anyone with a brain knew the Pats were gonna make an offer, but some of you are just too stupid enough to realize the obvious.It's not your fault tho Speedjunkie, I was dumb back when I was 14 too. Not that dumb, but you know. Espurs117

What obvious topic will you post next for our amusement? Can u feel it? The anticipation is palpable.

Nice. Calling union members dumb. I remember you once called somebody out for something similar. NP. Hypocrite isn't among the words in your vocabulary, I'm sure. :roll: (know u luv rolly-eyed guy xoxox)

Nice twice. Making fun of '14yr olds'. Some here knew more about the NFL at 14 than you will by 24. :?

Burton : Nice. You had more smiles than words yet I still got bored.

Ryder : It's Espurs...not Espurus....you keep misspelling. And no I don't have a problem with you to answer your previous question. I had told Wallly and Bobbles I was gonna mess with you about yorumotto to see if I could get you to remove it. It was only a joke, I didn't actuallyl get offended by it.

Espurs117

I prefer Espurus. Imagery of togas and bath houses. Attire & establishments I'm sure you'd enjoy. :|

Shut up everyone. All of you are children. CommanderShiro

But, ZOMG spelling errors on an internet forum.

[QUOTE="CommanderShiro"]Shut up everyone. All of you are children. geaux321

But, ZOMG spelling errors on an internet forum.

[QUOTE="CommanderShiro"]Shut up everyone. All of you are children. geaux321

But, ZOMG spelling errors on an internet forum.

Lewis, Browns agree to deal

Running back Jamal Lewis has reached agreement with the Cleveland Browns on a multiyear contract, The Associated Press has learned.

Lewis was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent next week. But the Browns, who went 10-6 and barely missed the playoffs last season, didn't want to risk losing him after he rushed for more than 1,300 yards.

The club will officially sign Lewis once the contract's language is finalized by his agents, a person familiar with the negotiations said Thursday on the condition of anonymity because the deal was not yet completed.

The Browns are believed to have relented an added a third year to an initial two-year offer they made for the 28-year-old.

Vikes release 7-year veteran safety Smith

Dwight Smith's two loud seasons with Minnesota ended Wednesday when the Vikings released the seven-year veteran safety, making him a free agent.

Signed just before training camp in 2006, Smith - who had two interceptions for champion Tampa Bay in the Super Bowl following the 2002 season - was productive with the Vikings on the field. He picked off four passes, including a 93-yard touchdown return last November against the eventual Super Bowl champion New York Giants. LINK

Panthers release RB DeShaun Foster

The Panthers have released DeShaun Foster, their starting running back from last season.

The move was made Thursday and clears about $4.75M in salary-cap space. And it continues a busy offseason as the Panthers overhaul their roster following a second straight season out of the playoffs.

Foster has never rushed for more than 897 yards in six seasons plagued by fumbles and injuries.

During the last two seasons, Foster split time with former first-round pick DeAngelo Williams. Williams is expected to enter next season as the team's top back.

Steelers release Tuman, Kriewaldt, Rossum

The Pittsburgh Steelers have released three veteran players.

The team said Friday it terminated the contracts of TE Jerame Tuman, LB Clint Kriewaldt and CB/KR Allen Rossum. - LINK -

[QUOTE="CommanderShiro"]Shut up everyone. All of you are children. geaux321

But, ZOMG spelling errors on an internet forum.

lawl

The Cowboys use their franchise tag on saftey Ken Hamlin.

Story

Exactly who I would have used the tag on. I thought it was going to be Hamlin or possibly Flozell, but Flo would have cost more so I'm glad they went with Hamlin.

Ryder : It's Espurs...not Espurus....you keep misspelling. And no I don't have a problem with you to answer your previous question. I had told Wallly and Bobbles I was gonna mess with you about yoru motto to see if I could get you to remove it. It was only a joke, I didn't actuallyl get offended by it.

Espurs117

well ty for messing with me cause if u wouldnt have messed with me, people in the union would of probably started to think that im racist, and we wouldnt want that lol

SAINTS MAKE OFFER TO THOMAS

It's two visits, two offers for former linebacker Zach Thomas.

According to Adam Schefter of NFL Network, the New Orleans Saints have made Thomas an offer to join the team. Earlier this week, the Patriots offered Thomas a contract.

Schefter reports that there's a feeling that the Saints are the favorites to land Thomas, who was cut by Miami last week.

Other teams interested in Thomas include the Cowboys, Broncos, Texans, Jets, and Bills.

Source: ProFootballTalk

Dom Capers joins Patriots coaching staff

(AP) -- The New England Patriots hired former Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Dom Capers as special assistant for the secondary Thursday.

Capers, a former head coach at Carolina and Houston, spent two seasons at Miami. He was special assistant to the head coach in 2006 and defensive coordinator last season.

The Patriots also made Nick Caserio director of player personnel and Bill O'Brien as wide receivers coach.

Caserio was New England's wide receivers coach last season and had been the team's director of pro personnel for three years before that. O'Brien was an offensive coaching assistant last season. He spent 12 seasons as a college coach in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Panthers release RB DeShaun Foster

The Panthers have released DeShaun Foster, their starting running back from last season.

The move was made Thursday and clears about $4.75M in salary-cap space. And it continues a busy offseason as the Panthers overhaul their roster following a second straight season out of the playoffs.

Foster has never rushed for more than 897 yards in six seasons plagued by fumbles and injuries.

During the last two seasons, Foster split time with former first-round pick DeAngelo Williams. Williams is expected to enter next season as the team's top back.

JackBurton

I'm going to miss the guy, he was a solid runningback that I actually liked. I never saw him as the franchise back, but I think given the time, him and DeAngelo would of been great together.

And given that they already cut Wahle and Morgan earlier, I wonder who's next on the list to be released? David Carr? I can only hope.

Lewis, Browns agree to deal

Running back Jamal Lewis has reached agreement with the Cleveland Browns on a multiyear contract, The Associated Press has learned.

Lewis was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent next week. But the Browns, who went 10-6 and barely missed the playoffs last season, didn't want to risk losing him after he rushed for more than 1,300 yards.

The club will officially sign Lewis once the contract's language is finalized by his agents, a person familiar with the negotiations said Thursday on the condition of anonymity because the deal was not yet completed.

The Browns are believed to have relented an added a third year to an initial two-year offer they made for the 28-year-old.

Vikes release 7-year veteran safety Smith

Dwight Smith's two loud seasons with Minnesota ended Wednesday when the Vikings released the seven-year veteran safety, making him a free agent.

Signed just before training camp in 2006, Smith - who had two interceptions for champion Tampa Bay in the Super Bowl following the 2002 season - was productive with the Vikings on the field. He picked off four passes, including a 93-yard touchdown return last November against the eventual Super Bowl champion New York Giants. LINK

Panthers release RB DeShaun Foster

The Panthers have released DeShaun Foster, their starting running back from last season.

The move was made Thursday and clears about $4.75M in salary-cap space. And it continues a busy offseason as the Panthers overhaul their roster following a second straight season out of the playoffs.

Foster has never rushed for more than 897 yards in six seasons plagued by fumbles and injuries.

During the last two seasons, Foster split time with former first-round pick DeAngelo Williams. Williams is expected to enter next season as the team's top back.

JackBurton

I'm sorta shocked at Dwight Smith's release. He was solid, though underrated. I still remember when he pwned Eli with liek 3 INT's. But the other two moves, I wasn't very surprised at.

Coin toss nets Falcons No. 3 pick; Raiders, Chiefs to follow

The Atlanta Falcons, who won only four games last season, won a coin toss Friday morning that will allow them to select third in the 2008 draft.

Spots No. 3 through No.5 were uncertain until Friday morning because the Falcons, Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs each finished with 4-12 records and each played schedules with a cumulative .516 winning percentage in 2007. Draft positions are determined by team records and schedules, with the easier schedules getting the higher draft seeding. A coin toss is used to break ties.

After the Friday morning coin toss, the Falcons received the No. 3 pick, the Raiders No. 4 and the Chiefs No. 5.

The Falcons had the first call and won the toss. Under that scenario, the Falcons got the third pick and the Raiders the fourth pick. Had the Falcons lost the toss and the Raiders won, the Raiders would have drafted third, and then the Falcons would have flipped against the Chiefs for the No. 4 and No. 5 picks.

Vikings' WR Williamson allowed to seek trade options

The Minnesota Vikings have given wide receiver Troy Williamson the opportunity to shop himself in a trade, and there appears to be a lot of interest.

According to Williamson's agent, David Canter, 14 teams have been contacted, and eight have shown interest enough to reach out to the Vikings about a possible trade. Canter would like to have a trade agreed upon before Feb. 28, the start of the free agency period.

"He's property of the Minnesota Vikings right now and he's under contract," Vikings coach Brad Childress said. "We have spoken to his agent and he has the opportunity to go out [and seek a trade]."

Williamson was the 7th pick in the 2005 Draft and went to Minnesota as part of the Randy Moss trade with the Oakland Raiders. He's had three receivers coaches and two head coaches in three seasons with the Vikings. He had 18 catches in 11 games last season.

Patriots allow WR Donte' Stallworth to be free agent

A day after choosing not to use the "franchise tag" to secure All-Pro WR Randy Moss' services for 2008, the New England Patriots on Friday declined to pick up wide receiver Donte' Stallworth's option.

The Boston Herald reports that Stallworth was due $6 million on Sunday and another $2 million on March 1. He now, like Moss, is a free agent and free to negotiate with any NFL team.

The Patriots now have only one of their top four wide receivers -- Wes Welker -- under contract for the 2008 season. Moss, Stallworth and Jabar Gaffney all will be free agents on Feb. 29.

According to the Herald, the team did entertain free agent wide receiver Marty Booker this week but did not offer him a contract.

Coin toss nets Falcons No. 3 pick; Raiders, Chiefs to follow

The Atlanta Falcons, who won only four games last season, won a coin toss Friday morning that will allow them to select third in the 2008 draft.

Spots No. 3 through No.5 were uncertain until Friday morning because the Falcons, Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs each finished with 4-12 records and each played schedules with a cumulative .516 winning percentage in 2007. Draft positions are determined by team records and schedules, with the easier schedules getting the higher draft seeding. A coin toss is used to break ties.

After the Friday morning coin toss, the Falcons received the No. 3 pick, the Raiders No. 4 and the Chiefs No. 5.

The Falcons had the first call and won the toss. Under that scenario, the Falcons got the third pick and the Raiders the fourth pick. Had the Falcons lost the toss and the Raiders won, the Raiders would have drafted third, and then the Falcons would have flipped against the Chiefs for the No. 4 and No. 5 picks.

JackBurton

crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap.....oh crap...they will probably take Mccfadden and with tampas ugly run D they might just make some plays.........hope Mccfadden will get picked up 1st or 2nd

[QUOTE="JackBurton"]

Coin toss nets Falcons No. 3 pick; Raiders, Chiefs to follow

The Atlanta Falcons, who won only four games last season, won a coin toss Friday morning that will allow them to select third in the 2008 draft.

Spots No. 3 through No.5 were uncertain until Friday morning because the Falcons, Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs each finished with 4-12 records and each played schedules with a cumulative .516 winning percentage in 2007. Draft positions are determined by team records and schedules, with the easier schedules getting the higher draft seeding. A coin toss is used to break ties.

After the Friday morning coin toss, the Falcons received the No. 3 pick, the Raiders No. 4 and the Chiefs No. 5.

The Falcons had the first call and won the toss. Under that scenario, the Falcons got the third pick and the Raiders the fourth pick. Had the Falcons lost the toss and the Raiders won, the Raiders would have drafted third, and then the Falcons would have flipped against the Chiefs for the No. 4 and No. 5 picks.

Ryder004

crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap crap.....oh crap...they will probably take Mccfadden and with tampas ugly run D they might just make some plays.........hope Mccfadden will get picked up 1st or 2nd

I'm still hoping they take Matt Ryan.