Patriots Sign Linebacker Adalius Thomas My Comments Below
By JESSE HARLAN ALDERMAN
Associated Press Writer
BOSTON -- Linebacker Adalius Thomas, one of the most sought-after free agents, signed Saturday with the New England Patriots, giving the three-time Super Bowl winners a player in the mold of the departed Willie McGinest.
The 29-year-old Pro Bowler, one of the keys to the Baltimore's defense last season, can play several positions, including outside linebacker and defensive end -- as McGinest did until he left last season for Cleveland.
Thomas, at 6-foot-2-inches and 270 pounds, said he even lined up at cornerback in a defensive package designed to handle Pittsburgh's physical receivers, matching wideouts stride-for-stride.
"I'm a football player. I don't play a position. Whatever is needed for me to do here, I'm going to do," he said. "That's why the Patriots have been so successful here because they don't look at it as position. They look at it as football."
The Patriots also announced the signings of two other veterans: tight end Kyle Brady from Jacksonville and back up running back Sammy Morris from division-rival Miami.
"Personally and professionally, we are very impressed with Adalius Thomas," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said. "His playmaking, toughness, intelligence, versatility and character were all factors in our decision to pursue him."
Many professional scouts had considered Thomas the most talented free agent on the market, coming off an 11-sack and 106-tackle season as one of the anchors on Baltimore's stout defense that gave up an NFL-low average of 12.6 points per game.
The signing period for free agents was fewer than 36 hours old when Thomas signed his deal. He said he did not want to test the market after receiving a phone call from New England -- a team he said is primed to compete for its fourth Super Bowl win in seven seasons.
"We don't want to come here and play games," he said. "There's no need to go looking around for the best, when you start with the best. My first offer was here and there was no need to go anywhere else."
Thomas cited a motto that he learned from his father in Alabama -- "Be humble or get humble" -- when reflecting on his steady rise from a sixth-round draft pick out of Southern Mississippi in 2000 to a special teams Pro Bowl pick in 2003 to one of the league's top linebackers.
He has five career defensive touchdowns, 38.5 sacks, six interceptions and six fumble recoveries.
He said Belichick has a penchant for molding a system around versatile linebackers, drawing a comparison to Mike Vrabel, another linebacker known for lining up in other positions, notably as a goal-line tight end.
"I think I fit their pedigree of linebackers -- guys that can run, big strong guys that play different things from Vrabel to Bruschi to Colvin," he said. "You have all these guys that are here that are great players. Again, I just try to come in and add to what they already have because they have a great linebacking corps here."
The signing of veterans at tight end and running back fill offensive needs for the Patriots after the team released running back Corey Dillon on Friday. Tight end Daniel Graham is an unrestricted free agent expected to leave New England.
Brady, 35, played four seasons with the New York Jets and eight with Jacksonville. He has played in 183 games and caught 334 passes for 3,449 yards and 23 touchdowns.
Morris, 29, is a seven-year veteran who has played for both Buffalo and Miami.
WOW!! you can't blame them for making these deals. Thomas is a key piece to their climb back to the top. Plus the additions of two skilled vets like Kyle Brady and Sammy Morris gives them needed depth at two offensive skill positions. The rich just keep getting richer.....
Monday, March 05, 2007
Redskins (re)Sign DB Smoot, and LB London Fletcher
Redskins End Relatively Modest Weekend-Ofcourse My Comments Below......
By JOSEPH WHITE
AP Sports Writer
ASHBURN, Va. -- Fred Smoot was in classic form for his Washington Redskins reunion, punching out one-liners while ruing his two-year misadventure with the Minnesota Vikings. It was a good thing he was there, considering little else was happening Sunday at Redskins Park.
A team known for its big-spending ways had -- by its own standards, at least -- a very modest first three days of free agency.
"This year seemed to be a little bit different," coach Joe Gibbs said. "And certainly we were trying to be smart in what we did. Things kind of took off wildly with the money and everything."
Smoot and linebacker London Fletcher are the only signings to date, and Gibbs said no new free agents were scheduled for visits. That's a far cry from last year, when the Redskins acquired six players -- most of them commanding top-tier contracts -- in the first four days.
The Redskins opted not to sign offensive lineman Leonard Davis, who visited on Saturday but was asking for a budget-busting deal. Cornerback Travis Fisher also visited Redskins Park over the weekend, but he was considered superfluous once a deal was reached with Smoot.
Smoot was the self-proclaimed "Mouth of the South" when he played four seasons with the Redskins before leaving for Minnesota in 2005. His two years with the Vikings were marred by injuries, violations of team rules and a disorderly conduct charge for his actions at the infamous "Love Boat" party. Eventually, he lost his starting job and was cut.
"I thought it was a mistake to leave," Smoot said. "Not many people get a second chance to make it right. ... This is my home. I don't have to learn any new coaches. I don't have to learn any new city. It's just like moving back in that old room at my momma's house."
So what went wrong in Minnesota?
"I never really got comfortable there," Smoot said. "I always felt like a stepchild. .. Every time I got going, something happened. My brother died, the boat situation, the car accident. So a lot of stuff happened, and it humbled me in life."
On Saturday -- before Smoot's deal was finalized -- Gibbs said he spoke to Smoot specifically about "the boat situation," a 2005 players' party that devolved into lewd behavior and embarrassed the Vikings organization. Gibbs made it clear such behavior won't be tolerated in Washington.
"I think Fred and I have a good understanding," Gibbs said. "He knows what's expected of him."
Smoot was asked what fans can expect from him as a result of his troubles with the Vikings.
"They're getting a player who's been through a lot," Smoot said. "You can't get glass until it goes through a lot of changes, and then it comes out smooth. I'm that smooth part right now. ... I can promised you this: They're going to get a Fred Smoot who has matured in a lot of ways."
Gibbs said it was a mistake to let Smoot leave two years ago, but the coach didn't lure him back with a promise of a starting job. Smoot will compete with Carlos Rogers and Shawn Springs for playing time, unless Springs is traded or cut because of his resistance to renegotiate his contract to lower a high salary cap number.
"We're counting on him being here," Gibbs said. "We want him to be here. We've had some discussions. We don't know where they'll wind up, but we do know that Shawn's a very valuable part of this football team."
Smoot was so popular among the Redskins that, even after he left, they continued to give the "Fred 'Silky Johnson' Smoot Award" -- also known as the "You're Nothin' Award" -- every week to a defensive player who made a big impact.
Knowing he would be welcome if he returned to Washington made Smoot willing to sign a five-year deal that might have been less than what he could have received had he negotiated with more than one team.
"Money wasn't what I was chasing this time," he said. "It was a chance to be happy and play high-level football."
The Redskins still have two significant holes to fill. They need a right guard to replace Derrick Dockery, who signed Friday with Buffalo, and an impact defensive lineman. They can probably get the defensive lineman with the No. 6 overall pick in next month's draft. The guard could be a late free agent pickup, a late-round draft choice or a young player already on the roster.
"We'll find somebody to win that spot," Gibbs said.
Looks Like Dan Snyder might be learning a Bit From Gibbs. Maybe he's not going to break the bank this time signing too many players. They are going to need that Defensive Lineman before the start of the season, and he's will have to play both the run and pass if he is going to help Washington get back into contender status.
By JOSEPH WHITE
AP Sports Writer
ASHBURN, Va. -- Fred Smoot was in classic form for his Washington Redskins reunion, punching out one-liners while ruing his two-year misadventure with the Minnesota Vikings. It was a good thing he was there, considering little else was happening Sunday at Redskins Park.
A team known for its big-spending ways had -- by its own standards, at least -- a very modest first three days of free agency.
"This year seemed to be a little bit different," coach Joe Gibbs said. "And certainly we were trying to be smart in what we did. Things kind of took off wildly with the money and everything."
Smoot and linebacker London Fletcher are the only signings to date, and Gibbs said no new free agents were scheduled for visits. That's a far cry from last year, when the Redskins acquired six players -- most of them commanding top-tier contracts -- in the first four days.
The Redskins opted not to sign offensive lineman Leonard Davis, who visited on Saturday but was asking for a budget-busting deal. Cornerback Travis Fisher also visited Redskins Park over the weekend, but he was considered superfluous once a deal was reached with Smoot.
Smoot was the self-proclaimed "Mouth of the South" when he played four seasons with the Redskins before leaving for Minnesota in 2005. His two years with the Vikings were marred by injuries, violations of team rules and a disorderly conduct charge for his actions at the infamous "Love Boat" party. Eventually, he lost his starting job and was cut.
"I thought it was a mistake to leave," Smoot said. "Not many people get a second chance to make it right. ... This is my home. I don't have to learn any new coaches. I don't have to learn any new city. It's just like moving back in that old room at my momma's house."
So what went wrong in Minnesota?
"I never really got comfortable there," Smoot said. "I always felt like a stepchild. .. Every time I got going, something happened. My brother died, the boat situation, the car accident. So a lot of stuff happened, and it humbled me in life."
On Saturday -- before Smoot's deal was finalized -- Gibbs said he spoke to Smoot specifically about "the boat situation," a 2005 players' party that devolved into lewd behavior and embarrassed the Vikings organization. Gibbs made it clear such behavior won't be tolerated in Washington.
"I think Fred and I have a good understanding," Gibbs said. "He knows what's expected of him."
Smoot was asked what fans can expect from him as a result of his troubles with the Vikings.
"They're getting a player who's been through a lot," Smoot said. "You can't get glass until it goes through a lot of changes, and then it comes out smooth. I'm that smooth part right now. ... I can promised you this: They're going to get a Fred Smoot who has matured in a lot of ways."
Gibbs said it was a mistake to let Smoot leave two years ago, but the coach didn't lure him back with a promise of a starting job. Smoot will compete with Carlos Rogers and Shawn Springs for playing time, unless Springs is traded or cut because of his resistance to renegotiate his contract to lower a high salary cap number.
"We're counting on him being here," Gibbs said. "We want him to be here. We've had some discussions. We don't know where they'll wind up, but we do know that Shawn's a very valuable part of this football team."
Smoot was so popular among the Redskins that, even after he left, they continued to give the "Fred 'Silky Johnson' Smoot Award" -- also known as the "You're Nothin' Award" -- every week to a defensive player who made a big impact.
Knowing he would be welcome if he returned to Washington made Smoot willing to sign a five-year deal that might have been less than what he could have received had he negotiated with more than one team.
"Money wasn't what I was chasing this time," he said. "It was a chance to be happy and play high-level football."
The Redskins still have two significant holes to fill. They need a right guard to replace Derrick Dockery, who signed Friday with Buffalo, and an impact defensive lineman. They can probably get the defensive lineman with the No. 6 overall pick in next month's draft. The guard could be a late free agent pickup, a late-round draft choice or a young player already on the roster.
"We'll find somebody to win that spot," Gibbs said.
Looks Like Dan Snyder might be learning a Bit From Gibbs. Maybe he's not going to break the bank this time signing too many players. They are going to need that Defensive Lineman before the start of the season, and he's will have to play both the run and pass if he is going to help Washington get back into contender status.
Cowboys Sign Leonard Davis, Re-sign WR Terry Glenn
Cowboys Agree to Terms With OL Davis-See my Commentary Below
By Associated Press
IRVING, Texas -- The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to terms with free agent offensive lineman Leonard Davis.
Cowboys spokesman Rich Dalrymple confirmed the deal Sunday, but not the details of the agreement. He said a formal announcement by the team was expected Monday.
According to various reports, including a story posted on the team's Web site, Davis agreed to a seven-year contract worth nearly $50 million, including $18.75 million in guaranteed money.
Davis, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2001 draft out of Texas, spent his first six seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. He played guard for the first four seasons and switched to left tackle in 2004.
He started 91 games for the Cardinals, including all 16 last season, but never became the overpowering Pro Bowl-level player the team envisioned.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys picked up wide receiver Terry Glenn's $5 million roster bonus, virtually assuring he will remain with the team.
"I've talked to Terry and he's very excited," receivers coach Ray Sherman told The Dallas Morning News.
Glenn will earn a base salary of $820,000. He had more than 1,000 yards receiving and six touchdowns last year.
One of the Things Former Cowboys Coach Bill Parcells always wanted was a Big Time BIG Offensive lineman. He never mentioned Davis by name ofcourse, but you can't get much bigger them Him. Surely Davis will return to his former Position, Guard. This move also firms up the Cowboys Line to the point where thye do NOT have to draft a projected starter, but rather just get back-ups now.
By Associated Press
IRVING, Texas -- The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to terms with free agent offensive lineman Leonard Davis.
Cowboys spokesman Rich Dalrymple confirmed the deal Sunday, but not the details of the agreement. He said a formal announcement by the team was expected Monday.
According to various reports, including a story posted on the team's Web site, Davis agreed to a seven-year contract worth nearly $50 million, including $18.75 million in guaranteed money.
Davis, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2001 draft out of Texas, spent his first six seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. He played guard for the first four seasons and switched to left tackle in 2004.
He started 91 games for the Cardinals, including all 16 last season, but never became the overpowering Pro Bowl-level player the team envisioned.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys picked up wide receiver Terry Glenn's $5 million roster bonus, virtually assuring he will remain with the team.
"I've talked to Terry and he's very excited," receivers coach Ray Sherman told The Dallas Morning News.
Glenn will earn a base salary of $820,000. He had more than 1,000 yards receiving and six touchdowns last year.
One of the Things Former Cowboys Coach Bill Parcells always wanted was a Big Time BIG Offensive lineman. He never mentioned Davis by name ofcourse, but you can't get much bigger them Him. Surely Davis will return to his former Position, Guard. This move also firms up the Cowboys Line to the point where thye do NOT have to draft a projected starter, but rather just get back-ups now.
Packers Loose Ahman Green: Texans Sign Runningback.
Texans Agree to Terms With Ahman Green
By KRISTIE RIEKEN
AP Sports Writer
HOUSTON -- The Houston Texans agreed to terms with free agent running back Ahman Green on Sunday. The 30-year-old former Green Bay Packer will likely become the starter for a team that struggled at the position last season after Domanick Williams -- formerly Davis -- missed the year with knee problems.
Green will be introduced at a 1 p.m. news conference in Houston on Monday, said Texans vice president of communications Tony Wyllie. Terms of the contract were not immediately available.
Houston also has a trio of inexperienced running backs in Wali Lundy, Chris Taylor and fellow former Green Bay player Samkon Gado. They also hope to re-sign free agent Ron Dayne, the 1999 Heisman Trophy winner, who excelled late last season after years of struggles.
Green had 266 carries for 1,059 yards last season after returning from a torn right quadriceps in 2005. He missed two games last season because of lingering effects from the injury.
He has 8,491 yards and 54 touchdowns in his nine-year career that began with Seattle. Before the injury two years ago, Green gained more than 1,100 yards in each of the previous five seasons.
Green, who has been with the Packers since the 2000 season, has close ties with former Packers head coach Mike Sherman, who is the Texans' offensive coordinator and assistant head coach. Along with Gado, former Packers teammate Mike Flanagan also plays for the Texans.
Green spent the weekend in Houston, visiting the Texans and taking in a Houston Rockets game on Saturday night.
"I'm just looking for a situation where I feel comfortable around the players and the coaches, where I can be myself," Green said Sunday before the deal was announced. "Come down here and just play football and have fun. That is what I'm looking for."
Green did not immediately return a message left on his cell phone by The Associated Press.
After meeting with Denver and Houston, Green told reporters in Houston earlier on Sunday that he was canceling other scheduled visits to teams and could "possibly" make his decision in the next 24 hours.
"I have gotten to the point where I have seen enough," Green said. "I don't need to venture out anymore. I know a few teams that are disappointed because I did have some visits set up, but from the two teams that I have visited, I don't need to see anymore."
Green said facing the possibility of leaving Green Bay would be difficult.
"That's where the majority of my career is at," Green said. "I think speaking in general with anybody that has been in a situation for a long time, regardless of if it was good or bad, I've been there seven years. Some good, some bad, but regardless of the fact, staying or leaving will be tough. I don't know yet, but, I think for anybody generally speaking it would be tough to do. When you're a kid and you transfer a school, and that school you have all your buddies, regardless of if it was good times or bad times, it's still a tough time to leave."
Going into the offseason, Green had indicated he preferred to stay in Green Bay. He was scheduled to appear at the Packers' annual fan fest next weekend.
With Green out, the Packers are left with Vernand Morency, an inexperienced but quick back who was obtained for Gado in a trade with the Texans last season. Morency gained 434 yards on 96 carries last year.
Green Bay also could look to address their running back needs with the No. 16 pick in the NFL draft next month or obtain another running back through free agency.
And my Take:
So now your going to get to see if Green really has it, or is he just another Fumbler of a runningback. There were at least 4 other teams, including The Giants nad Patriots that were looking forward to Green Visiting with them. I'm not surprised Green wants to be with Mike Sherman....
By KRISTIE RIEKEN
AP Sports Writer
HOUSTON -- The Houston Texans agreed to terms with free agent running back Ahman Green on Sunday. The 30-year-old former Green Bay Packer will likely become the starter for a team that struggled at the position last season after Domanick Williams -- formerly Davis -- missed the year with knee problems.
Green will be introduced at a 1 p.m. news conference in Houston on Monday, said Texans vice president of communications Tony Wyllie. Terms of the contract were not immediately available.
Houston also has a trio of inexperienced running backs in Wali Lundy, Chris Taylor and fellow former Green Bay player Samkon Gado. They also hope to re-sign free agent Ron Dayne, the 1999 Heisman Trophy winner, who excelled late last season after years of struggles.
Green had 266 carries for 1,059 yards last season after returning from a torn right quadriceps in 2005. He missed two games last season because of lingering effects from the injury.
He has 8,491 yards and 54 touchdowns in his nine-year career that began with Seattle. Before the injury two years ago, Green gained more than 1,100 yards in each of the previous five seasons.
Green, who has been with the Packers since the 2000 season, has close ties with former Packers head coach Mike Sherman, who is the Texans' offensive coordinator and assistant head coach. Along with Gado, former Packers teammate Mike Flanagan also plays for the Texans.
Green spent the weekend in Houston, visiting the Texans and taking in a Houston Rockets game on Saturday night.
"I'm just looking for a situation where I feel comfortable around the players and the coaches, where I can be myself," Green said Sunday before the deal was announced. "Come down here and just play football and have fun. That is what I'm looking for."
Green did not immediately return a message left on his cell phone by The Associated Press.
After meeting with Denver and Houston, Green told reporters in Houston earlier on Sunday that he was canceling other scheduled visits to teams and could "possibly" make his decision in the next 24 hours.
"I have gotten to the point where I have seen enough," Green said. "I don't need to venture out anymore. I know a few teams that are disappointed because I did have some visits set up, but from the two teams that I have visited, I don't need to see anymore."
Green said facing the possibility of leaving Green Bay would be difficult.
"That's where the majority of my career is at," Green said. "I think speaking in general with anybody that has been in a situation for a long time, regardless of if it was good or bad, I've been there seven years. Some good, some bad, but regardless of the fact, staying or leaving will be tough. I don't know yet, but, I think for anybody generally speaking it would be tough to do. When you're a kid and you transfer a school, and that school you have all your buddies, regardless of if it was good times or bad times, it's still a tough time to leave."
Going into the offseason, Green had indicated he preferred to stay in Green Bay. He was scheduled to appear at the Packers' annual fan fest next weekend.
With Green out, the Packers are left with Vernand Morency, an inexperienced but quick back who was obtained for Gado in a trade with the Texans last season. Morency gained 434 yards on 96 carries last year.
Green Bay also could look to address their running back needs with the No. 16 pick in the NFL draft next month or obtain another running back through free agency.
And my Take:
So now your going to get to see if Green really has it, or is he just another Fumbler of a runningback. There were at least 4 other teams, including The Giants nad Patriots that were looking forward to Green Visiting with them. I'm not surprised Green wants to be with Mike Sherman....
Bucs Sign B.J Askew
Bucs Sign Free Agent Fullback B.J. Askew
By Associated Press
TAMPA, Fla. -- Free-agent fullback B.J. Askew signed a contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.
Askew, drafted by the Jets in the third round out of Michigan in 2003, has played in 55 games in his four NFL seasons, all with New York. In 2004, he and Jerald Sowell were the lead blockers for running back Curtis Martin, who led the league with 1,697 yards rushing.
Askew has 102 yards rushing on 27 carries and 12 catches for 73 yards in four seasons while being used mainly as a blocker. He was also a standout on special teams.
Askew recently told The Associated Press that he wanted a chance to switch roles on the field, from fullback to halfback -- something he did while rushing for 1,580 yards and 17 touchdowns in college at Michigan. He also caught 83 passes for 777 yards and six TDs with the Wolverines.
"B.J. enjoyed his time with the Jets, but he wanted an opportunity to utilize all of his talents," said Askew's agent, Scott Smith. "He is much more than a traditional blocking fullback, and now he will be playing in a system that has produced one of the most prolific power backs in history in Mike Alstott."
By Associated Press
TAMPA, Fla. -- Free-agent fullback B.J. Askew signed a contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.
Askew, drafted by the Jets in the third round out of Michigan in 2003, has played in 55 games in his four NFL seasons, all with New York. In 2004, he and Jerald Sowell were the lead blockers for running back Curtis Martin, who led the league with 1,697 yards rushing.
Askew has 102 yards rushing on 27 carries and 12 catches for 73 yards in four seasons while being used mainly as a blocker. He was also a standout on special teams.
Askew recently told The Associated Press that he wanted a chance to switch roles on the field, from fullback to halfback -- something he did while rushing for 1,580 yards and 17 touchdowns in college at Michigan. He also caught 83 passes for 777 yards and six TDs with the Wolverines.
"B.J. enjoyed his time with the Jets, but he wanted an opportunity to utilize all of his talents," said Askew's agent, Scott Smith. "He is much more than a traditional blocking fullback, and now he will be playing in a system that has produced one of the most prolific power backs in history in Mike Alstott."
Jags Sign WR Northcutt to a 5 year contract
Jags Agree to 5-Year Deal With Northcutt- see my end comment
By Associated Press
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Jacksonville Jaguars believe they found a legitimate deep threat in free agency, agreeing to a five-year contract with former Cleveland receiver Dennis Northcutt on Sunday.
Northcutt was flying to Jacksonville for a physical Sunday and was expected to sign the deal Monday.
The contract was reportedly worth $17 million and included a $4.5-million signing bonus.
Northcutt had 276 receptions for 3,438 yards and 11 touchdowns in seven years with the Browns. He caught 117 passes for 1,535 yards and four touchdowns during the 2003-04 seasons. His production dipped the last two years with 64 receptions for 669 yards and two scores.
But the Jaguars think he will help spread the field for quarterback Byron Leftwich, receivers Matt Jones and Reggie Williams and the running game.
The 5-foot-11, 170-pound Northcutt also could help the Jaguars on special teams since he ranked fourth in the league last season in punt returns.
Northcutt would be the second free agent signing for the Jaguars. They signed former Baltimore right tackle Tony Pashos to a five-year contract worth $24 million Friday.
So Coach Del Rio is quite serious about putting a winner on the field. Northcutt was wasting away the last two years as his numbers dipped in Cleveland. He was close to being a "phenom" coming out of Northern Arizona University in the 2000 Draft. This gives Jacksonville a legitimate #2 Receiver, as well as a great Punt Returner. it also gives Coach Del Rio some offensive peace of mind.
By Associated Press
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Jacksonville Jaguars believe they found a legitimate deep threat in free agency, agreeing to a five-year contract with former Cleveland receiver Dennis Northcutt on Sunday.
Northcutt was flying to Jacksonville for a physical Sunday and was expected to sign the deal Monday.
The contract was reportedly worth $17 million and included a $4.5-million signing bonus.
Northcutt had 276 receptions for 3,438 yards and 11 touchdowns in seven years with the Browns. He caught 117 passes for 1,535 yards and four touchdowns during the 2003-04 seasons. His production dipped the last two years with 64 receptions for 669 yards and two scores.
But the Jaguars think he will help spread the field for quarterback Byron Leftwich, receivers Matt Jones and Reggie Williams and the running game.
The 5-foot-11, 170-pound Northcutt also could help the Jaguars on special teams since he ranked fourth in the league last season in punt returns.
Northcutt would be the second free agent signing for the Jaguars. They signed former Baltimore right tackle Tony Pashos to a five-year contract worth $24 million Friday.
So Coach Del Rio is quite serious about putting a winner on the field. Northcutt was wasting away the last two years as his numbers dipped in Cleveland. He was close to being a "phenom" coming out of Northern Arizona University in the 2000 Draft. This gives Jacksonville a legitimate #2 Receiver, as well as a great Punt Returner. it also gives Coach Del Rio some offensive peace of mind.
Poll Of Dems And Repub Insiders Favors Clinton and Giuliani, But No Clear Favorite - Watch Out For Obama
An LA Times poll currently has Senator Hillary Clinton and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani as the favorite with party insiders -- whatever the hell that means.
What the poll fails to capture is the rise in support for Barack Obama. Party insiders have ties to current incumbents and are often the last to adjust to the desires of the public at large.
But watch out for Obama. He now has more support amoug Black voters than Senator Clinton and is drawing huge crowds whereever he goes.
What the poll fails to capture is the rise in support for Barack Obama. Party insiders have ties to current incumbents and are often the last to adjust to the desires of the public at large.
But watch out for Obama. He now has more support amoug Black voters than Senator Clinton and is drawing huge crowds whereever he goes.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Barack Obama and Hilary Clinton In Selma, Alabama - Score One For Obama, But..
Senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama appeared in Selma, Alabama today to give speeches recognizing "Bloody Sunday." Bloody Sunday is described in this way:
"On March 7, 1965, 600 marchers gathered outside of Brown Chapel and set out for Montgomery by way of the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Acting on orders from Governor George Wallace, Alabama state troopers stood in their pathway and ordered them to turn around. The marchers were then met with billy clubs, tear gas, and bullwhips and were trampled by horses. The attack was televised, and by the time of the second march two days later, whites and blacks from other parts of the country had joined in their struggle. Restrained by a court order, King led them to the bridge, prayed and turned around."
It led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act by Congress.
Senator Barack Obama was invited to give the keynote speech at a service honoring the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, joining Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.) and other veterans of the civil rights movement in marking the historic event. But not to be oudone, Senator Clinton arranged to speak at almost the same time as Senator Obama, but at a different church.
Who came out on top? Well, since C-SPAN covered all of Senator Obama's speech and only part of Senator Clinton's speech, you've got to score that round to Obama. But I saw both speeches and while Obama's still the more passionate speaker, Senator Clinton gave the best speech I've heard from her. The one problem is that she reads, where Obama talks, looking down a scant few times and only for a fraction of a second.
He spends more time talking and less time reading. He connects.
"On March 7, 1965, 600 marchers gathered outside of Brown Chapel and set out for Montgomery by way of the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Acting on orders from Governor George Wallace, Alabama state troopers stood in their pathway and ordered them to turn around. The marchers were then met with billy clubs, tear gas, and bullwhips and were trampled by horses. The attack was televised, and by the time of the second march two days later, whites and blacks from other parts of the country had joined in their struggle. Restrained by a court order, King led them to the bridge, prayed and turned around."
It led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act by Congress.
Senator Barack Obama was invited to give the keynote speech at a service honoring the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, joining Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.) and other veterans of the civil rights movement in marking the historic event. But not to be oudone, Senator Clinton arranged to speak at almost the same time as Senator Obama, but at a different church.
Who came out on top? Well, since C-SPAN covered all of Senator Obama's speech and only part of Senator Clinton's speech, you've got to score that round to Obama. But I saw both speeches and while Obama's still the more passionate speaker, Senator Clinton gave the best speech I've heard from her. The one problem is that she reads, where Obama talks, looking down a scant few times and only for a fraction of a second.
He spends more time talking and less time reading. He connects.
Marriage Becoming An Act Of America's Wealthy and Educated - Blame The Economy
That news comes from the Washington Post , which states...
"Punctuating a fundamental change in American family life, married couples with children now occupy fewer than one in every four households -- a share that has been slashed in half since 1960 and is the lowest ever recorded by the census.
As marriage with children becomes an exception rather than the norm, social scientists say it is also becoming the self-selected province of the college-educated and the affluent. The working class and the poor, meanwhile, increasingly steer away from marriage, while living together and bearing children out of wedlock."
The article also points to the decline in economic prosperty since World War II. But the basic problem is the overall decline in manufacturing jobs, which have fallen from just over 20 million in 1979 to about 14 million in 2004. That's a loss of 6 million jobs. And many of those jobs were taken by people who didn't have masters degrees or college degrees for that matter, but they were good, well-paying gigs. It used to be that one person could make enough money to feed a family, but that's no longer true. It takes two. It's hard to have time to raise a family and work at the same time. Something's got to give.
Marriage, sadly.
"Punctuating a fundamental change in American family life, married couples with children now occupy fewer than one in every four households -- a share that has been slashed in half since 1960 and is the lowest ever recorded by the census.
As marriage with children becomes an exception rather than the norm, social scientists say it is also becoming the self-selected province of the college-educated and the affluent. The working class and the poor, meanwhile, increasingly steer away from marriage, while living together and bearing children out of wedlock."
The article also points to the decline in economic prosperty since World War II. But the basic problem is the overall decline in manufacturing jobs, which have fallen from just over 20 million in 1979 to about 14 million in 2004. That's a loss of 6 million jobs. And many of those jobs were taken by people who didn't have masters degrees or college degrees for that matter, but they were good, well-paying gigs. It used to be that one person could make enough money to feed a family, but that's no longer true. It takes two. It's hard to have time to raise a family and work at the same time. Something's got to give.
Marriage, sadly.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Glenn Beck's Sexually Suggestive TV Remark To Dina Sansing Of US Weekly Example Of Stupidity In Action
If' you've not seen this video clip, take a look. It's TV pundit -- or whatever he is -- Glenn Beck asking Dina Sansing to come over and let him take pictures of her nude. Or..
"Dina, I've got some time and a camera. Why don't you stop by?"
He was trying to be funny, but it didn't come off well at all. In fact, it sounded like he went as far as the edge and decided "what the hell, I'll say it anyway" and came off looking like a total idiot. Much of this because of her "I can't believe he said that" reaction. "To The People" think's Beck's going to be fired over this.
But also -- to Glenn's defense -- it sounds like she was kind of kidding with him, seeing how far he would take it. Well, she got her answer.
Here's the video:
"Dina, I've got some time and a camera. Why don't you stop by?"
He was trying to be funny, but it didn't come off well at all. In fact, it sounded like he went as far as the edge and decided "what the hell, I'll say it anyway" and came off looking like a total idiot. Much of this because of her "I can't believe he said that" reaction. "To The People" think's Beck's going to be fired over this.
But also -- to Glenn's defense -- it sounds like she was kind of kidding with him, seeing how far he would take it. Well, she got her answer.
Here's the video:
Jerricho Cotchery rewarded
Cotchery rewarded-See My end notes
Tom Rock-Newsday
Negotiating a good deal on a car might be more strenuous than the back-and-forth that led to yesterday's announcement that the Jets had signed wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery to a long-term extension.
"It was an easy process," said Cotchery, coming off a breakout season in 2006, his third year in the NFL. "I wasn't expecting them to come to me a year early, but they did and it was very easy. It was a number that I wanted. It had to be fair for both sides and it ended up being [that]."
The deal, a five-year extension believed to be worth about $4 million per season, came on the eve of the free- agency period and a full year before Cotchery would have been able to test the market for his value. Instead, the 24-year-old decided he was comfortable with the Jets and coach Eric Mangini - under whose watch he was given his greatest opportunities as a pro and started all 17 games last season - and wanted to stay put.
"This is the organization that drafted me and I wanted to be loyal to them and I want to finish my career here," Cotchery said. "I feel like the other teams, if they had wanted me when I was coming out for the draft, they would have drafted me. This time around they won't have a second chance to get me.
"I love the Jets and they've shown me tons of love."
Cotchery becomes the second young Jet to flourish under Mangini and be rewarded with a contract extension. Linebacker Bryan Thomas received a five-year extension during the season.
Cotchery made 82 catches for 961 yards and six touchdowns in 2006, but Mangini and general manager Mike Tannenbaum said it wasn't just statistics that led to the long-term commitment. "Jerricho Cotchery is the type of player we are looking for here," Tannenbaum said.
The deal almost certainly means that Justin McCareins, who was bumped from the starting lineup in favor of Cotchery and is due to earn almost $3 million in 2007, will not be with the Jets when the season begins. They will likely look to trade McCareins before training camp.
Watching Jerricho this year was a pretty sight. he was all over the field with great routes and sure hands.
Here's hoping he stays healthy enough to earn every penny of his new Contract!
Tom Rock-Newsday
Negotiating a good deal on a car might be more strenuous than the back-and-forth that led to yesterday's announcement that the Jets had signed wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery to a long-term extension.
"It was an easy process," said Cotchery, coming off a breakout season in 2006, his third year in the NFL. "I wasn't expecting them to come to me a year early, but they did and it was very easy. It was a number that I wanted. It had to be fair for both sides and it ended up being [that]."
The deal, a five-year extension believed to be worth about $4 million per season, came on the eve of the free- agency period and a full year before Cotchery would have been able to test the market for his value. Instead, the 24-year-old decided he was comfortable with the Jets and coach Eric Mangini - under whose watch he was given his greatest opportunities as a pro and started all 17 games last season - and wanted to stay put.
"This is the organization that drafted me and I wanted to be loyal to them and I want to finish my career here," Cotchery said. "I feel like the other teams, if they had wanted me when I was coming out for the draft, they would have drafted me. This time around they won't have a second chance to get me.
"I love the Jets and they've shown me tons of love."
Cotchery becomes the second young Jet to flourish under Mangini and be rewarded with a contract extension. Linebacker Bryan Thomas received a five-year extension during the season.
Cotchery made 82 catches for 961 yards and six touchdowns in 2006, but Mangini and general manager Mike Tannenbaum said it wasn't just statistics that led to the long-term commitment. "Jerricho Cotchery is the type of player we are looking for here," Tannenbaum said.
The deal almost certainly means that Justin McCareins, who was bumped from the starting lineup in favor of Cotchery and is due to earn almost $3 million in 2007, will not be with the Jets when the season begins. They will likely look to trade McCareins before training camp.
Watching Jerricho this year was a pretty sight. he was all over the field with great routes and sure hands.
Here's hoping he stays healthy enough to earn every penny of his new Contract!
Giants Keep C O'Hara
Signing center was no snap-See My End comment
Reese keeps O'Hara after tough negotiation, giving him five-year deal that stabilizes O-line
BY ARTHUR STAPLE-Newsday
The Giants went down to the free-agency period wire but signed center Shaun O'Hara last night. O'Hara's agent, Tony Agnone, had a face-to-face meeting with general manager Jerry Reese yesterday and the two sides inched together to keep O'Hara, signing him to a five-year deal worth $19 million, with $7.5 million guaranteed, according to a person familiar with the negotiations.
O'Hara had been offered a five-year deal worth roughly a million less, but it was a million less guaranteed money. After the Cowboys signed their center, Andre Gurode, to a six-year, $30-million deal with a $10-million signing bonus, O'Hara's demands went up.
Two people familiar with the team's decision-making process said cutting tackle Luke Petitgout last month was solely Reese's idea, and that Tom Coughlin was steadfastly against it. Reese then decided to take a tough stance in negotiations with O'Hara, who'll be 30 June 23.
But the team decided to keep the rest of the offensive line intact. The Giants were believed to have about $20 million in salary-cap room heading into today's start of free agency, but it may be only about half that. If so, O'Hara's contract leaves them with little room to throw big money at the few high-profile free agents available.
The Giants have decided to let kicker Jay Feely go to free agency. He'll have interest from the Dolphins, Cowboys and Falcons and should command a long-term deal. The Giants are interested in giving undrafted free agent Josh Huston, whom they signed in January, a shot at the job.
With O'Hara back, Coughlin needs to do far less shuffling of bodies. David Diehl could be the left tackle next season, or the Giants could pursue Cardinals left tackle Leonard Davis, who will command a big contract. Reese is said to be a fan of Guy Whimper, a fourth-round pick last year who didn't play a down.
The Giants are hosting former Colt Dominic Rhodes today, the first free agent to visit. Rhodes, 28, ran for 113 yards in the Super Bowl, and has expressed a desire to be a complementary rusher instead of a No. 1 back.
This was Probably the Single most important re-signing of the off Season for the Giants. Without O'Hara, Eli Manning would have spent considerable time on his back next season. Now they only need to replace Luke Pettitgout.
Reese keeps O'Hara after tough negotiation, giving him five-year deal that stabilizes O-line
BY ARTHUR STAPLE-Newsday
The Giants went down to the free-agency period wire but signed center Shaun O'Hara last night. O'Hara's agent, Tony Agnone, had a face-to-face meeting with general manager Jerry Reese yesterday and the two sides inched together to keep O'Hara, signing him to a five-year deal worth $19 million, with $7.5 million guaranteed, according to a person familiar with the negotiations.
O'Hara had been offered a five-year deal worth roughly a million less, but it was a million less guaranteed money. After the Cowboys signed their center, Andre Gurode, to a six-year, $30-million deal with a $10-million signing bonus, O'Hara's demands went up.
Two people familiar with the team's decision-making process said cutting tackle Luke Petitgout last month was solely Reese's idea, and that Tom Coughlin was steadfastly against it. Reese then decided to take a tough stance in negotiations with O'Hara, who'll be 30 June 23.
But the team decided to keep the rest of the offensive line intact. The Giants were believed to have about $20 million in salary-cap room heading into today's start of free agency, but it may be only about half that. If so, O'Hara's contract leaves them with little room to throw big money at the few high-profile free agents available.
The Giants have decided to let kicker Jay Feely go to free agency. He'll have interest from the Dolphins, Cowboys and Falcons and should command a long-term deal. The Giants are interested in giving undrafted free agent Josh Huston, whom they signed in January, a shot at the job.
With O'Hara back, Coughlin needs to do far less shuffling of bodies. David Diehl could be the left tackle next season, or the Giants could pursue Cardinals left tackle Leonard Davis, who will command a big contract. Reese is said to be a fan of Guy Whimper, a fourth-round pick last year who didn't play a down.
The Giants are hosting former Colt Dominic Rhodes today, the first free agent to visit. Rhodes, 28, ran for 113 yards in the Super Bowl, and has expressed a desire to be a complementary rusher instead of a No. 1 back.
This was Probably the Single most important re-signing of the off Season for the Giants. Without O'Hara, Eli Manning would have spent considerable time on his back next season. Now they only need to replace Luke Pettitgout.
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