NFL Insiders Ross Mandel & Ralph Mancini Weigh In On The Latest News & Notes
DEUCE MCALLISTER UPDATE
Running back Deuce McAllister continues to be happy with his recovery from a torn ACL in his left knee and microfracture surgery in his right knee. "I'm proud and pleased with (my progress)," he tells the New Orleans Times-Picayune. "I don't know if there's really a 'next benchmark' to be met on my part. It's pretty much just getting out there and trying to make plays. That's what I'm looking forward to." McAllister practiced on a limited basis and did individual drills during the June OTAs.
Mancini's Take: It's encouraging that McAllister hasn't suffered any setbacks thus far, but to expect to see the same Deuce we all knew and loved a couple of years ago may be nothing more than a pipe dream. The facts are that the power back is a 30-year-old who's been hurt three out of the last four years, with two of those injuries resulting in blown-out knees. The Saints will likely be judicious in the way they use him and the amount of touches he gets. Banking on McAllister to stay healthy the entire year is a risky proposition.
Mandel's Take: Listen, Deuce has been a solid contributor and a real team player but microfracture surgery is no joke; this isn't just coming back from a strained ACL. As the good Rev said, he's 30 years old--even if he hadn't been through several injuries, the tread would be running down at this point. The fact that he's so dedicated and determined to return and give the team whatever he has left is no doubt inspirational to his teammates and although it isn't likely that he'll be able to make it back at 100%, I wouldn't count him out.
LYNCH TO BE THREE DOWN BACK
Marshawn Lynch will play more on third down this season, which should translate into more receptions for the second year pro, according to BuffaloBills.com. "I think this year he'll be an integral part of our third down package," said Buffalo offensive coordinator Turk Schonert.
Mancini's Take: Coach Dick Jauron tried going with a running-back-by-committee approach to no avail last year when it became quite evident that Lynch was a do-it-all back that could pound his way for hard yardage inside, as well as being a big play receiver out of the backfield averaging over 10 yards per reception. Although fellow back Fred Jackson has also emerged as a pass-catching runner, the Bills are planning on lining both Lynch and Jackson up together in certain sets. The physical Lynch is a tremendous between-the-tackles grinder with a nose for the goal line, but must show better patience in letting his O-linemen block for him.
Mandel's Take: I'm a bit skeptical of this plan. There's a reason teams are stockpiling running backs--they don't seem to last like they used to. If the Bills expect Lynch to play every down and be fresh at the end of the season, they've got another thing coming. Lynch had 280 carries in only 13 games last season and averaged 4.0 yards per carry. To me, that isn't too impressive--nor is the Rev's assessment of Lynch as a "big play receiver". He had a couple of big plays in broken coverage but, had only 18 catches last season...one more than Ron Dayne and four less than teammate Fred Jackson. I agree that Lynch is a tough runner, but tough runners need understudies to give them a breather. The Bills will find this out the hard way.
NO TAKERS FOR JORDAN
LaMont Jordan has not been able to find a team willing to trade for him, according to Pro Football Weekly.
Mancini's Take: It's just comical how team owner Al Davis is holding this poor lout hostage out of fear that he'll go to a division rival. Ground Jordan was actually having a productive season until he was slowed by injuries last year. The one-time Jet remains a punishing runner with decent foot speed and soft hands. With younger players in the fold, however, LJ is no longer in Oakland's plans, and the team would be better off letting him become a free agent. I know Ross is not a big fan of this man's subpar work ethic, but you have to think that there has to be a market for this caliber of player if and when he becomes a free agent.
Mandel's Take: Of course no one is willing to trade for him--everyone knows Davis is going to release him if no trade is made, and why pay for something you can get for free? I can understand where Davis is coming from in not wanting to help a division rival, but it's sort of contradictory: if Davis thinks Jordan is good enough to help someone else, why isn't he good enough to play for his team? If Jordan isn't good enough to play for the Raiders, then why would anyone else want him? Davis is just being his normal out-of-touch self here, and although the Rev is correctthat I'm not a fan of Jordan's, I think he'll (finally) be motivated once he leaves Oaktown. The Bears might want to take a look.
RAIDERS COULD TURN TO OLD VETS
Bill Williamson of ESPN speculates that the Oakland Raiders are looking for some veteran depth at defensive tackle. If so, Oakland may consider going back to a familiar name. DTs Sam Adams and Grady Jackson are both free agents seeking to play again. Jackson played his first five NFL seasons, from 1997-2001, with Oakland. Adams played in Oakland in 2002 and was a big part of the Raiders' Super Bowl team.
Mancini's Take: Was this the same team that handed the largest contract ever signed by a defensive tackle to an average player(Tommy Kelly), whose career high in sacks is 4 1/2? Now, they want to bring in old glories, Adams and Jackson, to help salvage a horrendous run defense? Clearly the two large linemen are on the back nine of their careers, and should be considered nothing more than stop-gap role players. Despite having a superior secondary, the Silver and Black's line is ill equipped to stop the run or generate a consistent pass rush. There are more dark days ahead in the circus-like atmosphere created by the delusional Davis.
Mandel's Take: Here's all you need to know: both of these guys are running on fumes but both would help the Raiders run defense. Hey Rev--don't give the circus a bad name like that! Ha! They've got all three rings of that circus rocking in the 510. There are certianly enough clowns and don't be surprised to see some juggling when JaMarcus Russell goes back to pass this season.
BRYANT JOHNSON MAKING NOISE
Several insiders believe that Bryant Johnson and not Issac Bruce will end up being the teams top wide receiver this year, according to the Sacramento Bee.
Mancini's Take: Bryant is younger, faster and bigger than Bruce at 6' 3" 216 pounds. The former Penn State product is also a player who goes over the middle and can run past defenders when catching passes in traffic. But can Bryant improve his route running enough to excel in Martz's complex and precision-based passing attack? Bruce certainly has the upper hand in that department. The mad genius usually works better with smaller and quicker wide outs.
Mandel's Take: I think before we start discussing who the top receiver will be, we need to recognize that there isn't really a QB to throw them the ball...OK, now that we've recognized, I would agree that Johnson has a higher ceiling than the 36-year-old Bruce. However, I don't know if even the Mad Genius can produce a worthwhile passing game with the personnel assembled. Jerry Rice ain't walking through that door.
CURRY LEANER, MEANER
Wide receiver Ronald Curry credits new strength and conditioning coach Brad Roll with improving his physique. "I never took the weight room too seriously. I would do just enough," Curry tells the Sacramento Bee. "Coach Roll was really a blessing for me. He got me on my own little plan as far as upper body, lower body, and it's really helped me out. I can feel the difference in my legs, and when I go to block somebody, just me grabbing somebody, I can feel how much stronger I got." Curry plans to play this season at around 200 pounds, which is 10 pounds below his listed weight.
Mancini's Take: Curry is a sure-handed possession receiver blessed with agility and enough speed to go deep. Curry would look a whole lot better on a high-powered offense directed by a competent quarterback. As it is, Raider QB JaMarcus Russell is a project who is still behind the curve when it comes to reading defenses. Am I being too much of a glass-half-empty guy on this one, Mandel?
Mandel's Take: The good news is, Curry should lead his team in receptions. The bad news is, that team is the Raiders. Curry is Russell's best weapon...when healthy. I don't think you're being too harsh here, Rev. The Raiders' passing game is suspect to say the least and if Russell doesn't produce quickly, he's going to hear the word "bust" attached to his name all season. Somewhere, Ryan Leaf is hoping someone will take his "biggest bust" title.
JARRETT PAYTON RELEASED
Running back Jarrett Payton, son of the late Walter Payton, was released this week by the Canadian Football League's Montreal Alouettes. "Everything's always a shock when you don't see it coming," Payton told The Gazette Thursday morning from his Chicago home - the first interview he granted after his release by Montreal on Wednesday. "I really don't know what happened, but a little bit was my injury. The injury opened the door for a switch." When practice resumed this week, Payton was ordered to stay home while the team attempted to trade him. Without a deal on the table, he was released.
Mancini's Take: Although Payton never had quite enough flexibility or wiggle to make it as an NFL back, he acquitted himself quite well as Montreal's main back in 2007 by gaining 852 yards with eight touchdowns in 13 games. An ankle injury and the emergence of Avon Cobourne have made Payton expendable. Although some may suggest that the recent hiring of HC Marc Trestman may have heavily contributed to the running back's ouster.
Mandel's Take: From Amsterdam, to Tennessee to Montreal...Payton has been around the world and although he isn't an NFL-caliber back, he was 5th in the CFL in rushing last season...which is kind of like being the 5th best square dancer at a tango convention. Not a lot of need for running up North. Still, if he wants to, I suppose Payton will catch on somewhere...it just won't be in the NFL.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
FFI DAILY DOSE
Fantasy Football Insiders Ross Mandel & Ralph Mancini Discuss The Hot Topics From Around The League
ROGERS TO FANS: HOP ON BOARD OR SHUT UP
Aaron Rodgers is typically known for unique analysis of his teammates, descriptive explanations of the offense and for backing up Brett Favre, verbally and literally. That's why the Green Bay Packers' new starting quarterback's comment in a Sports Illustrated magazine story is all the more intriguing. The magazine asked Rodgers 'whether he feels pressure to connect with the fans the way Favre did.' "I don't feel I need to sell myself to the fans," Rodgers responded. "They need to get on board now or keep their mouths shut."
Mandel's Take: I can't wait for the "That was taken out of context!" excuse which we'll no doubt hear in a couple of days. Aaron...bubby...when you're an unproven talent following a legend and you're asked a question which involves the fans...it might be a good idea to avoid using the words "keep their mouths shut" no matter what the circumstance. His starting gig isn't under any pressure, but now he's on a shorter leash with the fans in Green Bay. Not a good way to start a relationship. However, if this turns out to be nothing, my words were taken out of context.
Mancini's Take: I'm sure the QB's comment was made tongue-in-cheek, but reading about it in print, there's no way of knowing whether or not the remark was made in jest or otherwise. Nevertheless, as time goes by, Rodgers will learn to be more media savvy and avoid getting caught up in similar predicaments. At least, I hope he does.
DEANGELO WILLIAMS UPDATE
Darin Gantt, of The Herald, reporting for The Sporting News, reports Carolina Panthers RB DeAngelo Williams is expected to be used more this year. Williams has improved his pass protection this offseason, an area of his game that was once considered a liability.
Mandel's Take: Hmmm. Then why did they draft Jonathan Stewart? Williams will be a third down back and might return kicks unless, of course, Stewart is ineffective when he returns from his foot injury. Williams has averaged 4.6 yards per carry in his brief career but hasn't demonstrated that an increased workload is warranted, hence the attempts to turn DeShaun Foster into something more than what he was and the drafting of Stewart. Williams can be effective, but not if he's overused. Rev--are you drinking the DeAngelo Kool-Aid?
Mancini's Take: I can see DWill being used a bit more often in the early going as Stewart becomes acclimated to the pro game, but I'm pretty much in agreement with Rosstradamus here. If Williams did indeed have what it takes to carry the load, I think he would've shown something by now. Until proven otherwise, he just bounces too many plays outside to merit consideration as a feature guy who sticks his nose in the heart of a defense.
CADILLAC TO START ON PUP?
Although many people are encouraged and optimistically want Williams to play again this season, those thoughts eventually could prove to be unrealistic, according to The Tampa Tribune. First and foremost, Tampa Bay does not need Williams this season. With Earnest Graham, Michael Bennett and the addition of Warrick Dunn, rushing Williams back this season is unnecessary.
Mandel's Take: A few weeks ago, Williams was pretty confident that he'd be playing at some point this season but fortunately, it isn't up to him. Letting players assess their own health is never a good idea and it's pretty clear that for team need and Williams' well-being, the Cadillac's dust cover should remain on for the foreseeable future.
Mancini's Take: Don't look for this Caddy to leave the showroom any time soon. The Bucs have already set their sights on Kevin Jones. Anything they get out of Williams in 2008 will be a bonus.
CALHOUN IN THE MIX
Despite playing in only four games last season the Detroit Lions coaching staff is still high on third-year RB Brian Calhoun. Calhoun, whose speed is his biggest asset, will get an opportunity to become a third-down threat along with his duties as a kick returner and special-teamer.
Mandel's Take: The good news is that the former CU Buff and Wisconsin Badger is finally healthy after knee problems limited his first couple of seasons in the NFL. The bad news is that the Lions drafted Kevin Smith and have Tatum Bell, so I'm not sure where the carries are going to come from. Make no mistake--Calhoun has blazing speed and quickness, I just don't see him stealing that many carries away from Smith or
Bell. It will be interesting to see if the Lions, with their "new" offensive philosophy will be able to incorporate a weapon like Calhoun.
Mancini's Take: Weapon? Ok, simmer down, Ross. I think your man needs to stay healthy for an entire season before he earns a key role in Detroit's offense. The good news for Calhoun is that Detroit will do everything in their power to establish itself as a running machine. The defense, however, also has to do its part and prevent the opposition from putting up big scores on the board in order for the running attack to operate at full boar.
JUREVICIUS SUFFERS SETBACK
Cleveland Browns WR Joe Jurevicius recently had another surgery to clean up tissue in his injured right knee. This is the fourth knee surgery for Jurevicius and his status for training camp is now in question. The release said he had experienced "ongoing swelling and discomfort in his knee" and "had a further clean out to help him in his recovery and control his symptoms."
Mandel's Take: Attention free agent wide receivers--send your resume to Cleveland and maybe check out the Flats and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame because the Browns are going to need someone to fill in for Jurevicius. My guess is that the crafty 33-year-old is able to squeeze a few games out this season, but the Browns know what we all do--the finish line is fast approaching. With the goals this team has, they need to get some insurance. Donte' Stallworth needs to recognize that his presence and contribution just became that much more critical.
Mancini's Take: With the the tall receiver's knee barking, special teams ace Joshua Cribbs may also assume a bigger role at wide out. The former Penn State Nittany Lion hasn't been able to stay healthy over long stretches for some time now.
TROY WILLIAMSON UPDATE
The Pioneer Press reports word out of Jacksonville indicates that Jacksonville Jaguars WR Troy Williamson enjoyed the best minicamp workouts of any player on the team.
Mandel's Take: Suddenly Williamson can catch the ball? I'll believe it when I see it in a game situation. Williamson has speed, but he dropped more passes than he caught in Minnesota. Perhaps someone gave him some advice along the lines of Tom Coughlin to Tiki Barber and now Williamson has learned to hold onto the ball. If so, he adds a much-needed dimension to the Jags' passing offense and will turn out to be well worth the sixth rounder the Jags gave up for him. Tell me Rev--is there some stick 'em on this guy's hands now, or what?
Mancni's Take: Well, in addition to hanging on to the ball, Williamson also needs to significantly enhance his route running during the regular season before we rush to judgement on any of his improvements. The fleet-footed athlete has been prone to making careless mistakes as a Viking, such as running out of bounds untouched before catching a pass. The fact is that lots of players look like world beaters with shorts on. Let's see how good he is when the lights go on.
DAVONE BESS UPDATE
The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that the rookie wide receiver has impressed Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland, who says he should be a good receiver for a long-time in the NFL.
Mandel's Take: The undrafted rook certainly signed with the right team if he wants to stick in the league. He could fast become a Parcells mascot and we all know that those "Parcells Guys" manage to hang around. He could relieve Ted Ginn, Jr. in the punt return department and be an effective slot receiver...if the Fish have anyone to throw the ball to him.
Mancini's Take: Coming out of college, Bess has a few things working against him, including his lack of size (barely 5' 10"), ordinary speed and character issues stemming from a 15-month stay in a juvenile facility for his role in receiving stolen goods. The rookie, however, is doing an excellent job of silencing his naysayers by showing Dolphin nation his tremendous hands, impressive quickness and outstanding change-of-direction skills. On a team devoid of top talent at the receiver position, Bess has an opportunity to be a prime target.
BOWMAN MAKES SPLASH IN DEBUT
On a team looking for new beginnings with a first-time head coach and a recycled quarterback, much-heralded rookie Adarius Bowman caught the game-clinching touchdown pass in the Saskatchewan Roughriders' 34-13 victory over the Edmonton Eskimos on Saturday. "I'm loving this -- we're in it together and this is the first of many,'' Bowman said after the reigning Grey Cup champions opened their CFL regular season before a sold-out crowd of 28,800 at Taylor Field. Bowman finished with six catches for a game-high 112 receiving yards.
Mandel's Take: Nothing like being exiled to Canada to smack some sense into a player. His attitude seems to be good and we know his skills are top drawer. Bowman is a serious talent and it shocked me that he went undrafted despite his poor workouts and his getting busted with pot. Plenty of players had problems but were drafted and there was no reason he couldn't be selected and told he was under a zero-tolerance policy. Bowman should keep his passport handy because he will end up playing the in the NFL. It may be sooner than anyone thinks. Rev--you should get the first flight to Saskatoon and sign this guy for the Jets!
Mancini's Take: Can he outperform fellow rookie Marcus Henry, Ross? If he can, I'd most certainly love to have him work out with the Jets to see what stuff he's made of. I'm a sucker for redemption stories. I hope Bowman keeps on keepin' on.
JAKE LONG UPDATE
Dolphins rookie OT Jake Long was evasive when asked where he will play on the offensive line, but HC Tony Sparano quickly put an end to the speculation shortly after the draft. "We see Jake as a left tackle. Left tackle is our need, and that's where he's going to be playing for us," Sparano said. But there are several pundits and NFL personnel who have mixed reviews as to where Long best fits in.
Mandel's Take: As the number one pick, the guy better be able to play anywhere they put him. As Sparano said, left tackle is their need (as if they have only "a" need!) so he'll be given every opportunity to succeed at that pivotal position. Wherever Long plays, he's almost a sure bet to improve the Dolphins'running game.
Mancini's Take: People unfairly compare Long to Joe Thomas who's a bit more nimble than the former Michigan man when it comes to pass blocking, but Long should have no problems playing left tackle. While his overall agility may not be up to par with some others at the position, his power and drive-blocking prowess are amazing. I can't see why Long can't be a perennial All Pro barring injury.
CONNOR LOOKING UP
Panthers LB Na'il Diggs will get preference towards the starting job at weak-side linebacker over Landon Johnson and rookie Dan Conner. Diggs gives the team an added veterans presence and recently signed a three-year extension. He'll also be counted on for more responsibilities while DT Damione Lewis and Maake Kemoeatu line up as a one-gap pass rusher and over the nose respectively, allowing more blockers to reach the second level.
Mandel's Take: Connor is going to begin his career as a backup, whether it's to middle man Jon Beason or one of the weaksiders is immaterial at this point. He'll see the field eventually and have his chance to make an impact. Diggs has, in addition to a very cool name, an edge in the experience department over Johnson, but the athleticism of Johnson could win out in the end. Either way, you can never have too many LBs.
Mancini's Take: Being a rookie can be a humbling experience. It's up to Connor to live in the filmroon and practice his tail off in order to prove he's worthy of a starting position.
ROGERS TO FANS: HOP ON BOARD OR SHUT UP
Aaron Rodgers is typically known for unique analysis of his teammates, descriptive explanations of the offense and for backing up Brett Favre, verbally and literally. That's why the Green Bay Packers' new starting quarterback's comment in a Sports Illustrated magazine story is all the more intriguing. The magazine asked Rodgers 'whether he feels pressure to connect with the fans the way Favre did.' "I don't feel I need to sell myself to the fans," Rodgers responded. "They need to get on board now or keep their mouths shut."
Mandel's Take: I can't wait for the "That was taken out of context!" excuse which we'll no doubt hear in a couple of days. Aaron...bubby...when you're an unproven talent following a legend and you're asked a question which involves the fans...it might be a good idea to avoid using the words "keep their mouths shut" no matter what the circumstance. His starting gig isn't under any pressure, but now he's on a shorter leash with the fans in Green Bay. Not a good way to start a relationship. However, if this turns out to be nothing, my words were taken out of context.
Mancini's Take: I'm sure the QB's comment was made tongue-in-cheek, but reading about it in print, there's no way of knowing whether or not the remark was made in jest or otherwise. Nevertheless, as time goes by, Rodgers will learn to be more media savvy and avoid getting caught up in similar predicaments. At least, I hope he does.
DEANGELO WILLIAMS UPDATE
Darin Gantt, of The Herald, reporting for The Sporting News, reports Carolina Panthers RB DeAngelo Williams is expected to be used more this year. Williams has improved his pass protection this offseason, an area of his game that was once considered a liability.
Mandel's Take: Hmmm. Then why did they draft Jonathan Stewart? Williams will be a third down back and might return kicks unless, of course, Stewart is ineffective when he returns from his foot injury. Williams has averaged 4.6 yards per carry in his brief career but hasn't demonstrated that an increased workload is warranted, hence the attempts to turn DeShaun Foster into something more than what he was and the drafting of Stewart. Williams can be effective, but not if he's overused. Rev--are you drinking the DeAngelo Kool-Aid?
Mancini's Take: I can see DWill being used a bit more often in the early going as Stewart becomes acclimated to the pro game, but I'm pretty much in agreement with Rosstradamus here. If Williams did indeed have what it takes to carry the load, I think he would've shown something by now. Until proven otherwise, he just bounces too many plays outside to merit consideration as a feature guy who sticks his nose in the heart of a defense.
CADILLAC TO START ON PUP?
Although many people are encouraged and optimistically want Williams to play again this season, those thoughts eventually could prove to be unrealistic, according to The Tampa Tribune. First and foremost, Tampa Bay does not need Williams this season. With Earnest Graham, Michael Bennett and the addition of Warrick Dunn, rushing Williams back this season is unnecessary.
Mandel's Take: A few weeks ago, Williams was pretty confident that he'd be playing at some point this season but fortunately, it isn't up to him. Letting players assess their own health is never a good idea and it's pretty clear that for team need and Williams' well-being, the Cadillac's dust cover should remain on for the foreseeable future.
Mancini's Take: Don't look for this Caddy to leave the showroom any time soon. The Bucs have already set their sights on Kevin Jones. Anything they get out of Williams in 2008 will be a bonus.
CALHOUN IN THE MIX
Despite playing in only four games last season the Detroit Lions coaching staff is still high on third-year RB Brian Calhoun. Calhoun, whose speed is his biggest asset, will get an opportunity to become a third-down threat along with his duties as a kick returner and special-teamer.
Mandel's Take: The good news is that the former CU Buff and Wisconsin Badger is finally healthy after knee problems limited his first couple of seasons in the NFL. The bad news is that the Lions drafted Kevin Smith and have Tatum Bell, so I'm not sure where the carries are going to come from. Make no mistake--Calhoun has blazing speed and quickness, I just don't see him stealing that many carries away from Smith or
Bell. It will be interesting to see if the Lions, with their "new" offensive philosophy will be able to incorporate a weapon like Calhoun.
Mancini's Take: Weapon? Ok, simmer down, Ross. I think your man needs to stay healthy for an entire season before he earns a key role in Detroit's offense. The good news for Calhoun is that Detroit will do everything in their power to establish itself as a running machine. The defense, however, also has to do its part and prevent the opposition from putting up big scores on the board in order for the running attack to operate at full boar.
JUREVICIUS SUFFERS SETBACK
Cleveland Browns WR Joe Jurevicius recently had another surgery to clean up tissue in his injured right knee. This is the fourth knee surgery for Jurevicius and his status for training camp is now in question. The release said he had experienced "ongoing swelling and discomfort in his knee" and "had a further clean out to help him in his recovery and control his symptoms."
Mandel's Take: Attention free agent wide receivers--send your resume to Cleveland and maybe check out the Flats and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame because the Browns are going to need someone to fill in for Jurevicius. My guess is that the crafty 33-year-old is able to squeeze a few games out this season, but the Browns know what we all do--the finish line is fast approaching. With the goals this team has, they need to get some insurance. Donte' Stallworth needs to recognize that his presence and contribution just became that much more critical.
Mancini's Take: With the the tall receiver's knee barking, special teams ace Joshua Cribbs may also assume a bigger role at wide out. The former Penn State Nittany Lion hasn't been able to stay healthy over long stretches for some time now.
TROY WILLIAMSON UPDATE
The Pioneer Press reports word out of Jacksonville indicates that Jacksonville Jaguars WR Troy Williamson enjoyed the best minicamp workouts of any player on the team.
Mandel's Take: Suddenly Williamson can catch the ball? I'll believe it when I see it in a game situation. Williamson has speed, but he dropped more passes than he caught in Minnesota. Perhaps someone gave him some advice along the lines of Tom Coughlin to Tiki Barber and now Williamson has learned to hold onto the ball. If so, he adds a much-needed dimension to the Jags' passing offense and will turn out to be well worth the sixth rounder the Jags gave up for him. Tell me Rev--is there some stick 'em on this guy's hands now, or what?
Mancni's Take: Well, in addition to hanging on to the ball, Williamson also needs to significantly enhance his route running during the regular season before we rush to judgement on any of his improvements. The fleet-footed athlete has been prone to making careless mistakes as a Viking, such as running out of bounds untouched before catching a pass. The fact is that lots of players look like world beaters with shorts on. Let's see how good he is when the lights go on.
DAVONE BESS UPDATE
The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that the rookie wide receiver has impressed Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland, who says he should be a good receiver for a long-time in the NFL.
Mandel's Take: The undrafted rook certainly signed with the right team if he wants to stick in the league. He could fast become a Parcells mascot and we all know that those "Parcells Guys" manage to hang around. He could relieve Ted Ginn, Jr. in the punt return department and be an effective slot receiver...if the Fish have anyone to throw the ball to him.
Mancini's Take: Coming out of college, Bess has a few things working against him, including his lack of size (barely 5' 10"), ordinary speed and character issues stemming from a 15-month stay in a juvenile facility for his role in receiving stolen goods. The rookie, however, is doing an excellent job of silencing his naysayers by showing Dolphin nation his tremendous hands, impressive quickness and outstanding change-of-direction skills. On a team devoid of top talent at the receiver position, Bess has an opportunity to be a prime target.
BOWMAN MAKES SPLASH IN DEBUT
On a team looking for new beginnings with a first-time head coach and a recycled quarterback, much-heralded rookie Adarius Bowman caught the game-clinching touchdown pass in the Saskatchewan Roughriders' 34-13 victory over the Edmonton Eskimos on Saturday. "I'm loving this -- we're in it together and this is the first of many,'' Bowman said after the reigning Grey Cup champions opened their CFL regular season before a sold-out crowd of 28,800 at Taylor Field. Bowman finished with six catches for a game-high 112 receiving yards.
Mandel's Take: Nothing like being exiled to Canada to smack some sense into a player. His attitude seems to be good and we know his skills are top drawer. Bowman is a serious talent and it shocked me that he went undrafted despite his poor workouts and his getting busted with pot. Plenty of players had problems but were drafted and there was no reason he couldn't be selected and told he was under a zero-tolerance policy. Bowman should keep his passport handy because he will end up playing the in the NFL. It may be sooner than anyone thinks. Rev--you should get the first flight to Saskatoon and sign this guy for the Jets!
Mancini's Take: Can he outperform fellow rookie Marcus Henry, Ross? If he can, I'd most certainly love to have him work out with the Jets to see what stuff he's made of. I'm a sucker for redemption stories. I hope Bowman keeps on keepin' on.
JAKE LONG UPDATE
Dolphins rookie OT Jake Long was evasive when asked where he will play on the offensive line, but HC Tony Sparano quickly put an end to the speculation shortly after the draft. "We see Jake as a left tackle. Left tackle is our need, and that's where he's going to be playing for us," Sparano said. But there are several pundits and NFL personnel who have mixed reviews as to where Long best fits in.
Mandel's Take: As the number one pick, the guy better be able to play anywhere they put him. As Sparano said, left tackle is their need (as if they have only "a" need!) so he'll be given every opportunity to succeed at that pivotal position. Wherever Long plays, he's almost a sure bet to improve the Dolphins'running game.
Mancini's Take: People unfairly compare Long to Joe Thomas who's a bit more nimble than the former Michigan man when it comes to pass blocking, but Long should have no problems playing left tackle. While his overall agility may not be up to par with some others at the position, his power and drive-blocking prowess are amazing. I can't see why Long can't be a perennial All Pro barring injury.
CONNOR LOOKING UP
Panthers LB Na'il Diggs will get preference towards the starting job at weak-side linebacker over Landon Johnson and rookie Dan Conner. Diggs gives the team an added veterans presence and recently signed a three-year extension. He'll also be counted on for more responsibilities while DT Damione Lewis and Maake Kemoeatu line up as a one-gap pass rusher and over the nose respectively, allowing more blockers to reach the second level.
Mandel's Take: Connor is going to begin his career as a backup, whether it's to middle man Jon Beason or one of the weaksiders is immaterial at this point. He'll see the field eventually and have his chance to make an impact. Diggs has, in addition to a very cool name, an edge in the experience department over Johnson, but the athleticism of Johnson could win out in the end. Either way, you can never have too many LBs.
Mancini's Take: Being a rookie can be a humbling experience. It's up to Connor to live in the filmroon and practice his tail off in order to prove he's worthy of a starting position.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
FREE AGENT RB UPDATES
Free-agent running back Kevin Jones is seriously eyeing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and is considering signing with Tampa. Jones also has drawn interest from New England and Tennessee, but he thinks the situation in Tampa is enticing and the chance exists for him to excel there. Darrin Beene of the Tacoma News Tribune is reporting that FA RB Shaun Alexander has told Shannon J. Owens that seven teams have been in contact with him regarding the 2008 season.
MATT RYAN UPDATE
During this down time between now and training camp, Atlanta Falcons rookie quarterback Matt Ryan said he hasn't scheduled any workouts with the team's receivers because he understands those players have things to do during this quiet period. Still, "I will definitely be on the phone with [quarterbacks coach] Bill Musgrave and [offensive coordinator] Mike Mularkey over the break." In order to stay sharp over the next few weeks, Ryan said has enlisted his brothers Mike and John to be his receivers. "I will not go more than two consecutive days without throwing before camp," Ryan said.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
MOATS ON THE CHOP BLOCK
Ryan Moats may not be long for Philadelphia's roster, reports Pro Football Weekly. The former third round draft pick is currently fifth on the team's depth chart.
DAVENPORT DUMPED
The Pittsburgh Steelers released running back Najeh Davenport Friday, according to a report on NFL Network. With the Steelers current RB corps, Davenport became expendable as Pittsburgh has Willie Parker, rookie Rashard Mendenhall and Mewelde Moore to carry the bulk of the workload this season. The team did not want to part with running back Gary Russell.
BARNES TO START
Darian Barnes has emerged as the favorite to start at fullback, according to buffalobills.com. "He is a physical, more of a straight-line, thumper fullback which is more in line with what we're looking for," said Bills running backs coach Eric Studesville.
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