CHRIS BROWN RB SIGNS WITH THE HOUSTON TEXANS

The Houston Texans signed free agent running back Chris Brown on Thursday.

Brown appeared in 12 games last season for the Tennessee Titans and finished with 462yards rushing and five touchdowns. He was taken by the Titans in the third round of the 2003 draft and ran for 2,757 yards and 16 TDs in five seasons with Tennessee.

He'll join Ahman Green at running back with the Texans and his signing could mean the end of Ron Dayne's tenure in Houston. Green is expected to be healthy this season after missing nine games in 2007 and finishing with 70 carries for 260 yards.

The Texans have not re-signed Dayne, an unrestricted free agent who led the team in rushing the last two seasons.

DENVER BRONCOS CAN GM TED SUNQUIST

The Denver Broncos terminated the contract of GM Ted Sunquist a month before the draft.

Sunquist will not be out of work long is very good at what he does and extremely well organized. Usually a team would never let a front office executive go anywhere until after the draft because of what they know about the prospects and the team's intentions. There have been many cases of teams holding onto the personnel people to the day after the draft and releasing them at that point.


Denver is a team with five starters from the last five drafts, but it also has 19 players no longer in the league. However, the Broncos are not alone. In fact, when you look at the whole league, the last five drafts have produced about 330 starters out of the 704 in the league, but those same five drafts also produced almost exactly the same amount of players who have gone on to other things in life.

How do you measure drafting success in the NFL? The average team produces two starters per draft year over the last five years, or 10 starters overall. The best ratio belongs to the Seahawks, who actually boast 15 starters from the last five years, or three players per draft. The Super Bowl teams this year -- the New York Giants and New England Patriots -- both had 12 starters from the last five drafts

KELLEN LEWIS INDIANA QB HAS BEEN SUSPENDED

Indiana suspended record-setting quarterback Kellen Lewis indefinitely on Thursday for violating team rules with spring practice about three weeks away.

"He will not participate as we begin spring practice," coach Bill Lynch said in a statement. "Kellen needs time away from the program and we look forward to his return at some point in the future."

Team spokesman Jeff Keag would not give details about what rules Lewis violated.

Keag said Lynch would make no additional comments on what led to the suspension or when Lewis might return to the team.

Losing Lewis leaves one of the Big Ten's top offenses from 2007 without its leader.

Lewis threw for 3,043 yards and 28 touchdowns and rushed for another 736 yards and nine more TDs while starting all 13 games and leading the Hoosiers to their first bowl game in 14 years. With his favorite target, receiver James Hardy, leaving a year early for the NFL, Lewis was expected to use this spring to build new bonds with receivers such as Ray Fisher and James Bailey.

Instead, the Hoosiers will spend the spring adjusting. Practice begins March 25.
Lewis' backup last year, Ben Chappell, who will be a sophomore, now inherits the starting job even though he has thrown two passes in college. Chappell played in three games last season.

Indiana's only returning backup, Teddy Schell, who did not play as a freshman in 2007, is also expected to miss the entire spring with an elbow injury.

Lynch is moving safety Mitchell Evans back to quarterback, where he opened fall camp in 2007. Evans was twice an all-state high school quarterback in Ohio. He moved to safety for his freshman season.

The Hoosiers do not expect to have another quarterback in camp until the fall, unless Lewis returns before Indiana's intrasquad scrimmage April 19.



Last year, Lewis developed into as one of the conference's most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks. He broke school single-season records for attempts (442), completions (265), yards passing, TD passes, total touchdowns (37), total yards (3,709) and completion percentage (60.0)

He is currently tied with Antwaan Randle El for most TD passes in a career (42) and ranks among the school's top five for career yards (5,264), completions (455) and attempts (788).

DARREN McFADDEN INVOLVED IN UNDERAGE DRINKING CASE

A piano bar that admitted Heisman Trophy runner-up Darren McFadden even though he was under age will face a $500 fine.

Employees of Ernie Biggs told investigators they let the 20-year-old running back inside Jan. 10 knowing he was a minor, said Michael Langley, director of the state Alcoholic Beverage Control agency on Tuesday.

McFadden and at least four others were at the bar when a fight broke out.

Langley said as long as the bar has no other violations in the next year, it will not have its license suspended.

"They came forward and admitted, 'Hey, we did this. We know we did this,'" Langley said. "For that willingness to admit fault, we gave the maximum fine we could and we're not going to suspend their permit."

McFadden was not arrested but was handcuffed briefly. Police said a bouncer was hit in the face, but a police report didn't say by whom.


The negotiated settlement came as the nightclub faced a hearing Tuesday over allowing McFadden in and the altercation that followed. As a private club that did not sell food, state law forbids the piano bar to allow minors inside.

The Alcoholic Beverage Control board will vote formally on the settlement March 19.

McFadden severely injured his toe after another fight outside a different Little Rock club during the summer of 2006.

FOUR WEST VIRGINIA FOOTBALL PLAYERS PLEAD TO THERE BAR FIGHT

Four West Virginia University players have pleaded no contest to battery charges stemming from an altercation outside a bar.
Running back Noel Devine, 20; defensive back Eain Smith, 19; cornerback Brantwon Bowser, 20; and running back/receiver Jockee Sanders, 19, were arrested Thursday, the Morgantown Police Department said in a news release.

Each player pleaded no contest to battery, a misdemeanor, in Morgantown Municipal Court, the police department said.

It was not immediately known whether the municipal court assessed any penalties against any of the players. A telephone message left Thursday night with the municipal court was not immediately returned.

Police said the charges stemmed from an altercation outside Club Z in Morgantown on Feb. 16 but did not provide details.


"Discipline with the situation has already been handled within the program," WVU football coach Bill Stewart said through a spokesman. He said he would have no further comment.

Last month, Stewart dismissed three other players charged with felony possession of marijuana with the intent to deliver.

West Virginia begins spring practice Friday.

Devine, a freshman, ran for 108 yards and two touchdowns in West Virginia's 48-28 Fiesta Bowl victory over Oklahoma.

5TH ROUND MOCK DRAFT

Kansas City Chiefs: John Sullivan, C, Notre Dame
The Chiefs have to keep upgrading their offensive line. However, knowing Carl Peterson's draft tactics, he'll probably take Justin Medlock here.


St. Louis Rams: Wesley Woodyard, OLB, Kentucky
The Rams are pretty thin at outside linebacker, especially if Brandon Chillar isn't re-signed. Pisa Tinoisamoa is way too injury prone. Wesley Woodyard had an incredible combine and could go much higher come April. I just have him slipping out of circumstance; weakside linebacker isn't a huge need for many teams in this draft.


Atlanta Falcons: Barry Richardson, OT, Clemson
Atlanta's offensive fronts is one of the league's worst. The team needs two upgrades at offensive tackle in the worst way possible.


Denver Broncos: D.J. Parker, FS, Virginia Tech
John Lynch is just a few years away from eating Jell-O thrice a day and purposely dropping things just to watch hot nurses bend over. The Broncos need some youth at safety.


Kansas City Chiefs: John David Booty, QB, USC
A young quarterback to compete with Brodie Croyle for the starting job. John David Booty had the smallest hands of any quarterback at the combine, so he could be very prone to fumbling in the NFL.






Carolina Panthers: Kellen Davis, TE, Michigan State
I'm not sure why the Panthers haven't acquired a top-notch tight end since Wesley Walls retired, but they should try to do that here.


San Francisco 49ers: Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
The 49ers found their replacement for Bryant Young in Justin Smith, but I still think they need depth up front in their 3-4.


Chicago Bears: Mike McGlynn, G/OT, Pittsburgh
The Bears need to keep rebuilding a horrific offensive line that couldn't pass protect or run block in 2007.


Buffalo Bills: Wallace Gilberry, DE, Alabama
The Bills could be in trouble at the defensive end position in 2008, as the guys who play across from Aaron Schobel - Chris Kelsay and Ryan Denney - both suffered serious injuries toward the end of the 2007 campaign and will consequently not be able to work out during the offseason.


Detroit Lions: Ezra Butler, OLB, Nevada
Boss Bailey, Detroit's former strongside linebacker, is gone, but it's not like he contributed much anyway.


Cincinnati Bengals: Tyvon Branch, CB, Connecticut
It's strange that a team that spent consecutive first-round picks on cornerbacks needs depth at the position.





New Orleans Saints: Ali Highsmith, OLB, LSU
Ali Highsmith had a brutal combine, so it's possible he could fall this far, though I think he'll eventually go at the top of the fourth round. He's incredible value here.


Jacksonville Jaguars: Dexter Jackson, WR, Appalachian State
The Jaguars need speed at receiver and a dynamic return specialist. This seems like the perfect fit for Dexter Jackson.


Denver Broncos: Donnie Avery, WR, Houston With Javon Walker defecting for rival Oakland, Denver's bound to search for an upgrade at receiver in the middle rounds of April's draft.


Arizona Cardinals: Darrell Robertson, DE/OLB, Georgia Tech
The Cardinals signed Travis LaBoy as their new 3-4 rush linebacker, but they could still use depth at the position.


Minnesota Vikings: Frank Morton, DT, Tulane
Pat Williams is an awesome force in the middle of Minnesota's defensive front. Unfortunately for them, he turns 36 in October. Time to find a successor.


Houston Texans: Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU
Despite spending a first-round pick on a corner, the Texans are going to be really thin at the position unless Dunta Robinson makes a miraculous recovery.





Philadelphia Eagles: Bruce Davis, OLB, UCLA
I'm not exactly sure why the Eagles felt the need to cut Takeo Spikes, who figured to be a solid backup linebacker in 2008. Depth is now needed here.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Carlton Powell, DT, Virginia Tech
The Buccaneers' defense was pretty stout last season, but something that it lacked was a stout, athletic under tackle capable of getting to the quarterback.


Washington Redskins: Jonathan Zenon, CB, LSU
The Redskins are pretty thin at defensive back. Luckily, there are tons of solid cornerbacks still available, thanks to this class being extremely deep at that position.


Cleveland Browns: Orlando Scandrick, CB, Boise State
The Browns are pretty thin at cornerback. If they get that and an effective 3-4 rush linebacker in this draft, they'll be set to take over the top spot in the AFC North.


Pittsburgh Steelers: Brandon Keith, OT, Northern Iowa
More offensive line help for the Steelers. They can take a 2-point conversion calculator for Mike Tomlin in Round 6.


Tennessee Titans: Adarius Bowman, WR, Oklahoma State
More receiving help for the Titans - if they actually realize that their current wide outs suck.


Seattle Seahawks: Steve Slaton, RB, West Virginia
I'm not exactly sure how long Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett will be around, but something tells me that neither is the long-term answer at running back. I expect Seattle to use a mid-round selection on a running back.


Jacksonville Jaguars: Jack Williams, CB, Kent State
I know cornerback isn't a need, but the Jaguars aren't exactly looking for much in this draft. They can afford to take Best Player Available here. And it never hurts to have too many talented corners.


San Diego Chargers: Jeremy Zuttah, OT, Rutgers
Welcome back to the draft, Chargers! Hope A.J. Smith got some golf in. Hopefully he wasn't in the sun long enough to forget that his team needs some help at offensive tackle.


Indianapolis Colts: D.J. Hall, WR, Alabama
I like Anthony Gonzalez coming out of the slot, so I'd want to see the Colts find a successor (or an injury replacement) for the soon-to-be 36-year-old Marvin Harrison.


Green Bay Packers: Erik Ainge, QB, Tennessee
Brett Favre has officially retired, meaning the Packers just have Aaron Rodgers... and... uhh... Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. Depth is needed because I doubt Rodgers is invincible like Favre.


Dallas Cowboys: Robert Felton, G, Arkansas
The interior of Dallas' offensive line is in dire need of some depth behind starters Kyle Kosier, Andre Gurode and Leonard Davis.


New England Patriots: Jeremy Thompson, DE/OLB, Wake Forest
More linebacking help for the Patriots. I'm pretty confident that Bill Belichick can find a sleeper this late in the draft.


New York Giants: Lavelle Hawkins, WR, California
Amani Toomer's retirement is coming soon. If it's not this summer, it'll be the next one. In addition to Steve Smith, New York needs to have a new wide out ready to go when

4TH ROUND MOCK DRAFT

Miami Dolphins: Josh Johnson, QB, San Diego
While I said Bill Parcells won't draft Matt Ryan because he won't be around long enough to see him fully develop, I do believe he'll take a rookie signal caller in the middle rounds to compete with the seemingly pedestrian John Beck.


St. Louis Rams: Steve Justice, C, Wake Forest
The Rams need to keep upgrading their pathetic offensive line.


New York Jets: Oniel Cousins, OT, UTEP
Yeah, so this Jonathan Vilma trade is giving me a George Minkowski-like brain aneurysm. There's blood coming out of my nose as I'm typing this. First, I thought the deal was for a 2009 pick. Then, I gave the Saints two fourth-rounders. Now, I think I finally got it right. At least I hope so.

Just a hunch, but I don't think the Jets brought in Damien Woody to start for very long. Woody couldn't even be a full-time tackle on Detroit's offensive front - a unit that surrendered 54 sacks last year.


Atlanta Falcons: Jonathan Goff, ILB, Vanderbilt
With Keith Brooking moving to weakside linebacker, Jonathan Goff could instantly get a look in the middle of Atlanta's defense.


Oakland Raiders: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
Wow - could Calais Campbell really fall this far? I think so. He showed up overweight and sluggish at his Pro Day. If he can't get motivated to stay in shape before even making it to the NFL, what's going to happen once he receives his first paycheck? I think teams shy away from Campbell until the Raiders are on the clock. Because Al Davis doesn't really know what's going on, he'll assume he's getting a steal.

Take away Derrick Burgess' eight sacks, and the Raiders had just 19. Pathetic. Oakland must acquire a pass rusher across from Burgess.




Kansas City Chiefs: William Franklin, WR, Missouri
The Chiefs have nothing at receiver after Dwayne Bowe. As a rookie, Bowe recorded 995 yards. Ranking in at No. 2 was Jeff Webb, 313 yards. Yeeesh.


Baltimore Ravens: Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
Derrick Mason is coming off an incredible season, cathching 103 passes for 1,087 yards. However, he just turned 34, so he's not going to be around much longer. I'm also not sure if Mark Clayton's the answer.


San Francisco 49ers: Drew Radovich, G, USC
Justin Smiley just signed with Miami, leaving the 49ers pretty thin at guard. They take care of that here.


Denver Broncos: Beau Bell, MLB, UNLV
Beau Bell will be able to play in the middle of Denver's defense, allowing D.J. Williams to move back outside to his natural position.


Carolina Panthers: Tavares Gooden, OLB/MLB, Miami
Dan Morgan has finally been cut, so I'd like to see the Panthers add some depth to the linebacker position.


Chicago Bears: Keenan Burton, WR, Kentucky
Muhsin Muhammad, as expected, was cut. Bernard Berrian, meanwhile, just signed with the Vikings. The Bears will need a new receiver or two in the mix.


Detroit Lions: DeJuan Tribble, CB, Boston College
It's a yearly tradition - eating turkey, falling asleep afterward and watching the Lions give up 40 points before the whole feast starts. Detroit's defense sucks, and it's time for a change.

Despite trading for Leigh Bodden and signing Brian Kelly, the Lions still need depth at cornerback.


Cincinnati Bengals: Martin Rucker, TE, Missouri
The Bengals have needed a solid tight end to go over the middle for ages now. They finally remedy that position here.





New York Jets: Harry Douglas, WR, Louisville
One of the reasons New York's offense looked so bland throughout the 2007 season was the team's lack of receiving options beyond Jerricho Cotchery. Laveranues Coles was inconsistent, while Justin McCareins sabotaged a few games with key drops. Kellen Clemens needs another option at wide out.


Buffalo Bills: Owen Schmitt, FB, West Virginia
The Bills could use an upgrade at fullback, and Owen Schmitt is a player their fans would fall in love with.


Philadelphia Eagles: Craig Steltz, SS, LSU
The Eagles upgraded their cornerbacks by adding Asante Samuel to the roster. However, there's still some work to be done at the safety position. Philadelphia needs to bring in an upgrade over Sean Considine.


Arizona Cardinals: David Roach, FS, TCU
One of the few reasons the Cardinals couldn't contain Matt Hasselbeck or Drew Brees late in the season was their gaping hole at free safety.


Minnesota Vikings: Marcus Griffin, FS, Texas
Minnesota was in need of help at free safety even before it cut Dwight Smith. Madieu Williams has the potential to be a solid player for the Vikings, but his problem is that he's really injury-prone. The odds are stacked against him going through a whole season without spending time on the injury report. Minnesota needs depth here anyway.


Houston Texans: Shawn Crable, OLB, Michigan
More defense to help stop the Colts. Both of Houston's strongside linebackers, Danny Clark and Charlie Anderson, are free agents this offseason (Anderson just signed with Miami).


Denver Broncos: Kirk Barton, OT, Ohio State
In the wake of Matt Lepsis' retirement, Denver has Ryan Harris and Erik Pears at the two positions, which could really be hazardous to Jay Cutler's health, should either guy struggle in pass protection.

Kirk Barton expelled all concerns about a lingering knee injury by looking very impressive in the drills at his Pro Day. He also ran a 4.95 and benched 225 pounds 34 times.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Steve Johnson, WR, Kentucky
I'll change this pick if the Buccaneers get D.J. Hackett. If not, they'll need a possession receiver to pair with DeSean Jackson once Joey Galloway retires.


Seattle Seahawks: Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
Deion Branch tore his ACL against the Packers and may not play in 2008. Bobby Engram, the team's top receiver in 2007, just turned 35. D.J. Hackett, meanwhile, is a free agent. The Seahawks need a receiver, and they can get a former first-round prospect who absolutely bombed his combine, running slowly and interviewing poorly. Still, he's decent value in Round 4.





Cleveland Browns: Jason Jones, DE/OLB, Eastern Michigan
This is Cleveland's first draft pick, as the team dealt all of its choices away. It actually did a great job filling most of its needs. One thing it didn't address, however, is the rush linebacker position.


Pittsburgh Steelers: Simeon Castille, FS/CB
I think we can all pretty much confirm that Anthony Smith isn't very good. Drafting Simeon Castille couldn't hurt Pittsburgh's secondary.


Tennessee Titans: Kevin Smith, RB, Central Florida
I'd rather see a receiver here than a running back - seriously, what are the Titans thinking with Eric Moulds and Brandon Jones - but Kevin Smith is too intriguing a prospect to pass up. Let's just hope LenDale White doesn't accidentally eat him.


Jacksonville Jaguars: Jonathan Hefney, FS, Tennessee
When the two teams you can't beat throwing the ball non-stop, you need as many defensive backs as possible to defend their talented receivers, right?


Dallas Cowboys: Tyrell Johnson, SS, Arkansas State
As I mentioned in my Cowboys 2008 Offseason page, there's a good chance Roy Williams could be released or traded, per the Dallas Morning News. Dallas needs an upgrade at strong safety.


Indianapolis Colts: Eric Young, G, Tennessee
The cap-strapped Colts just watched one of their starting tackles, Jake Scott, sign with rival Tennessee.


Green Bay Packers: Chris Harrington, DE, Texas A&M
Because the Packers don't have many needs, I'm looking at Best Player Available at this point. Chris Harrington is considered a third-round prospect, so getting him at the bottom of the fourth isn't a bad deal. Besides, I don't expect Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila (31 in September) to be around much longer, as his contract expires after the 2009 season. It never hurts to have a lot of depth on the defensive line.


New England Patriots: Jerome Simpson, WR, Coastal Carolina
The Patriots could be looking for a speed-burner in the middle of the draft, as they just lost Donte' Stallworth to the Browns. Jerome Simpson ran a 4.37 at the combine.


New York Giants: Jamar Adams, SS, Michigan
The Giants signed Sammy Knight as temporary solution at strong safety. They need something long term. Jamar Adams will compete with Michael Johnson to be that guy.

LATEST 3RD ROUND MOCK DRAFT

Miami Dolphins: Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
The Dolphins got very little production out of the tight end position in 2007, so Bill Parcells needs to make sure that doesn't happen again. Dustin Keller is a bit undersized, but he had an incredible combine, running a 4.53, notching a 38-inch vertical and catching every ball in sight.

I thought about a quarterback here, but I think Parcells waits one more round. I have to believe he would rather obtain a veteran free agent next year instead of waiting around for a young guy to develop. Parcells isn't going to be in town for more than three or four years.


St. Louis Rams: Eddie Royal, WR, Virginia Tech
With Isaac Bruce now on San Francisco's roster, the Rams may want to invest in a young receiver to take over for his spot in the starting lineup as soon as possible. It's a shame they couldn't keep Kevin Curtis and Shaun McDonald around.


Kansas City Chiefs: Terrence Wheatley, CB, Colorado
Ty Law and Patrick Surtain will both be over the age of 32 once the 2008 season commences. Speaking of Law, why hasn't he been released yet? The Chiefs told him they were going to cut him two weeks ago, but they have yet to do anything about it. What exactly is Carl Peterson doing?


Carolina Panthers: Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
The Panthers acquired this pick in the Kris Jenkins trade, so it only makes sense that they replace Jenkins with another talented defensive tackle.


Atlanta Falcons: Jermichael Finley, TE, Texas
It was pretty predictable that the Falcons were going to cut Alge Crumpler. Crumpler, once a great tight end, mysteriously became a sluggish player who dropped dozens of passes every week because he was too preoccupied daydreaming about eating hamburgers after each game.






New England Patriots: Brad Cottam, TE, Tennessee
The Patriots, known for taking tight ends early in the draft, could use one as Kyle Brady was just cut. Starter Ben Watson is inconsistent and didn't catch a pass in the Super Bowl, so Brad Cottam could end up being a potent weapon for Tom Brady by 2009.


San Francisco 49ers: Tony Hills, OT, Texas
The 49ers were the sexy sleeper pick this offseason. So, what happened? Frank Gore's injury played a factor. As did Alex Smith's ineptness. And don't forget the disappointing $100 million secondary. However, what hindered the team most has been its offensive line and receiving corps. The former surrendered 55 sacks. That's simply unacceptable. I don't care who the quarterback is; no signal caller can possibly thrive without any sort of pass protection.


Jacksonville Jaguars: Ahtyba Rubin, DT, Iowa State
Like the Panthers, Jacksonville acquired this selection from an AFC East squad in exchange for a massive defensive tackle. Why not draft a replacement?


Buffalo Bills: Mike Pollak, C, Arizona State
The Bills need help with their interior offensive front, and Mike Pollak is probably the best inside lineman in this draft class.


Minnesota Vikings: Duane Brown, OT, Virginia Tech
In my previous mock update, I stated that most Minnesota fans would gladly don green and gold if Tarvaris Jackson returned as the starter in 2008. Well, it turns out half of Vikings nation likes Jackson. With that in mind, I'm changing that projection to come to fruition if Ryan Cook and Marcus Johnson are allowed to battle it out for the starting gig at right tackle without a promising rookie challenging them.


Carolina Panthers: Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers
With DeShaun Foster off the team, the Panthers should look for a complement for the quick DeAngelo Williams. Ray Rice is a solid, between-the-tackles runner who could add some juice to Carolina's offense. Rice is a second round-caliber player, but he falls here simply because this class is so incredibly deep.





Chicago Bears: DeMario Pressley, DT, N.C. State
The defensive tackle position is in a state of flux for the Bears, given that Alfonso Boone and Ian Scott signed with other teams, while Tank Johnson was cut so he could pursue his life-long aspirations to hunt with Dick Cheney. It's gotten so bad Chicago has started signing guys off the street.


Detroit Lions: Marcus Harrison, DT, Arkansas
In the wake of Shaun Rogers getting traded to Cleveland, the Lions now have a 340-pound hole in the middle of their defensive line.


Cincinnati Bengals: Marcus Howard, OLB, Georgia
If the Bengals are able to land one of the top two defensive tackles in Round 1, they'll go outside linebacker here. The Bengals were so desperate at linebacker this season, they were scouring through the stands and the Monday Night Football booth to find people who could play. They had Dhani Jones in the lineup, for crying out loud. The man sells bowties for a living!

Marcus Howard is relatively new to my mock. He doesn't have much starting experience, but he really came on late in the year. He then capitalized on his momentum at the combine, where he ran a 4.40 and posted a 34.5-inch vertical.


New Orleans Saints: Thomas DeCoud, FS, California
More help for a New Orleans secondary that has looked horrendous all year. Free safety Josh Bullocks has been completely awful at times. Thomas DeCoud is an instant upgrade.


Houston Texans: Tashard Choice, RB, Georgia Tech
Darius Walker has been solid coming out of the backfield, and Ahman Green and Ron Dayne are both on the roster, but are any of them really the guy whom Houston can ride into the playoffs? The Texans need to address the running back situation, especially considering the plethora of talent at the position in this class.


Philadelphia Eagles: Trae Williams, CB, South Florida
If the Eagles trade Lito Sheppard, they'll need another cornerback for depth. And even if they keep him, they'll still go after a potential starter, allowing them to move Sheldon Brown over to free safety.


Arizona Cardinals: Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
With the Cardinals losing Bryant Johnson and using Larry Fitzgerald as trade bait, it's become apparent that they will address the receiver position no later than the third or fourth rounds of the draft.





Minnesota Vikings: Jacob Tamme, TE, Kentucky
The Vikings had almost no production out of the tight end position. Visanthe Shiancoe led the group with only 27 receptions, though some of the blame has to be attributed to Tarvaris Jackson's ineptness.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
Ronde Barber will be 33 soon, while Brian Kelly was just released. The Buccaneers need youth at the position. Charles Godfrey seems like a good fit for Tampa Bay's scheme.


Washington Redskins: Chilo Rachal, G, USC
Starting guards Pete Kendall and Randy Thomas will be 35 and 32, respectively, at the beginning of the 2008 season. The Redskins need to get younger there in a hurry.


Tennessee Titans: Nick Hayden, DT, Wisconsin
When Albert "The Hamstring" Haynesworth missed action in 2007, the Titans couldn't stop the run. They need depth at defensive tackle.


Seattle Seahawks: Heath Benedict, OT/G, Newberry If you've been following my Web site for a while, I'm guessing you weren't too surprised that the Seahawks signed Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett. I've been calling for Seattle to cut Shaun Alexander since October. Alexander ran like a 6-year-old girl prancing through a flower garden last season. It was pretty pathetic. Sometimes it seemed like he was more concerned with where the hot-dog vendor was rather than gaining an extra yard after contact. I'm glad to see the Seahawks realized that ever since he signed a huge contract and got injured a few months later, Alexander took a dive down to the turf before enduring a big hit.

All that being said, the Seahawks didn't exactly blow open running lanes for him. A versatile lineman like Heath Benedict could be exactly what Seattle needs to pump some life back into its morbid ground attack.


Detroit Lions: John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame
Mike Martz has gone on to San Francisco, where he will attempt to sell Alex Smith's organs on the black market once his crappy protection schemes cause them pop out of his new quarterback's body. The Lions need a real tight end.


Pittsburgh Steelers: Paul Hubbard, WR, Wisconsin
Ben wants money. Ben gets money. Ben wants a big receiver. Ben gets a big receiver?

After seeing his draft stock drop since the beginning of the year, the 6-2, 221-pound Paul Hubbard put himself back on the map with a tremendous Pro Day. He ran a 4.38 and notched a 39.5-inch vertical. He also dropped one pass in the drills.


Jacksonville Jaguars: Roy Schuening, G, Oregon State
Chris Naeole, who just turned 33 in December, is coming off a torn quad injury and was consequently cut. His backup, Maurice Williams, is a free agent.


Chicago Bears: Andre' Woodson, QB, Kentucky
It drives me nuts that Andre' Woodson could actually fall this far, but it looks like that just may happen. Well, if it does, I feel as though the Bears are getting the best quarterback in this draft. Woodson doesn't have as strong an arm as Joe Flacco, or the connections that Matt Ryan possesses, but he just seems to have the "it" that many signal callers don't have. I'm just hoping Matt McGuire doesn't get an aneurysm if Woodson slips late into the third round.


Green Bay Packers: John Greco, OT, Toledo
The Packers have a great offensive line, but tackles Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher will be 32 and 31, respectively, prior to the start of the 2008 season. Without any major needs, Green Bay can afford to add depth to the position.


Dallas Cowboys: Justin King, CB, Penn State
More cornerbacking depth for a team that has none. Justin King will also be a solid return specialist.


Indianapolis Colts: Chris Ellis, DE, Virginia Tech
The Colts need depth behind Dwight Freeney just in case he gets hurt again. After Freeney went down, they couldn't put pressure on opposing quarterbacks.


New England Patriots: Philip Wheeler, ILB, Georgia Tech
Other than lacking depth at corner and safety, the reason the Patriots' defense eroded into one of the league's worst toward the end of the season - despite anything Troy Aikman says - were the slow, old linebackers. Any sort of linebacker for the future is a must.


New York Giants: Zack Bowman, CB, Nebraska
Just a hunch, but I don't think Sam Madison and R.W. McQuarters, both of whom are 33 and 31, respectively, will be around much longer.

I think this is an interesting pick. Zack Bowman was a top-rated corner until he suffered multiple knee injuries. He looked solid at the combine, but you just never know. On one hand, he could be crippled by 2009. On the other hand, he could be a great risk-reward like Antonio Cromartie. But given that the Giants don't really have that many needs outside of their secondary, they can afford to take a gamble here.

LATEST 2ND ROUND MOCK DRAFT

Miami Dolphins: Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
About a month ago, I wrote the following: "I can't see the Dolphins sticking with Anthony Alabi and L.J. Shelton at right tackle for too much longer."

Well, they're both cut. The Dolphins are clearly targeting an offensive lineman in the first two rounds. Carl Nicks had an outstanding combine and could very well go in the first round.

I considered Brian Brohm here, but if the Dolphins take him, all of the second-tier offensive tackles will be gone by the time they choose again. Miami needs a left tackle in the worst way.


St. Louis Rams: Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
Marc Bulger was sacked 37 times in 12 starts this season. He actually broke the same amount of ribs, forcing the Rams to sign Trent Green to a contract worth $9 million. Wow. Way to spend tons of cash on a 38-year-old quarterback coming off two concussions, whose skills have completely diminished. The St. Louis front office would have been better served using that $9 million as toilet paper.

Where was I? Oh yeah... the line needs to be addressed, as Orlando Pace is too injury-prone, while Alex Barron is really inconsistent.


Oakland Raiders: Sam Baker, OT, USC
Oakland took a big risk by drafting a quarterback with its first-overall selection last year. The front office better find talented linemen who can protect JaMarcus Russell.

Huge steal for the Raiders - they get Sam Baker, a first-round prospect, who fits perfectly in their zone-blocking scheme.


Kansas City Chiefs: Anthony Collins, OT, Kansas
The run on offensive tackles continues. Even though Anthony Collins is a bit of a reach here, he's pretty much a no-brainer; Kansas City cannot afford to surrender 55 sacks against next year. Hopefully that will change with Collins on the Chiefs' offensive front.



New York Jets: Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee
Do I really have to delve into how horrendous the Jets' defense was this year? They were 29th against the run, managed just 29 sacks and couldn't force any turnovers. Part of the reason for that was because Jonathan Vilma was playing out of position. Vilma's gone, and will be replaced by the mediocre, soon-to-be 31-year-old Eric Barton. The Jets need a long-term solution next to David Harris at inside linebacker.

By the way, I recently received an e-mail from someone who didn't like this pick because Jerod Mayo was just as small as Jonathan Vilma. You can view the Jerod Mayo-Jonathan Vilma e-mail by clicking on that link and scrolling down to one of the entries on March 10. The premise was incorrect; Vilma is only 230 pounds, while Mayo weighs in close to 245. Just thought I'd clear that up.


Atlanta Falcons: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
Guess the Falcons don't have to trade up for Brian Brohm, huh? Brohm should become the starter in Atlanta by the midway point of the season, as the only other quarterbacks the team has under contract are Chris Redman, D.J. Shockley, and the caviar-loving, piano-playing Joey Harrington (assuming he re-signs this week). Don't count out Joe Flacco; Arthur Blank may never trust anyone from Louisville ever again.


Baltimore Ravens: Tracy Porter, CB, Indiana
The Ravens suddenly can't stop the pass, as Chris McAlister and Samari "Boy" Rolle are both on the wrong side of 30. I could see Baltimore cleaning house at the cornerback position soon, meaning it'll have to draft replacements.

Tracy Porter could be drafted in the first round. He had an incredible Pro Day, running a 4.29 in his 40.


San Francisco 49ers: Early Doucet, WR, LSU
When the 49ers traded a fourth-round pick for Darrell Jackson, I don't think they anticipated that their new wide out would drop about 10 passes per week. In 15 contests, Jackson had only 497 receiving yards.

Early Doucet can help San Francisco score more than 13.7 points per game this year. The team already added Isaac Bruce to its roster, but Alex Smith and Shaun Hill definitely need more than an 80-year-old wide out. Plus, Mike Martz can never have too many receivers.


New Orleans Saints: Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
Brian Young was re-signed recently, but Hollis Thomas is looking forward to retirement so he can eat Doritos on his couch, meaning the Saints need to address the nose tackle position. They get an absolute steal in Dre Moore here. Moore, a second-round prospect before the combine, notched a dazzling 4.88 at 305 pounds. Matt McGuire has him going 20th to the Buccaneers, and I can totally see that happening.


Buffalo Bills: Reggie Smith, CB/S, Oklahoma
The Bills have major depth issues at defensive back in the wake of losing Kiwaukee Thomas, Jerametrius Butler, Jim Leonhard, Coy Wire and E.J. Underwood this offseason. Buffalo needs to knock off the Patriots, who have Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Ben Watson all catching passes from the NFL's single-season record holder for touchdowns.


Denver Broncos: Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
Denver was 30th against the run last year and desperately needs to acquire some talent at defensive tackle. Hopefully drafting Trevor Laws is a step in the right direction to rebuilding one of the worst defenses in the NFL.





Carolina Panthers: Quintin Demps, FS, UTEP Mike Minter's unceremonious retirement this offseason left the Panthers with a hole at free safety, filled by the mediocre Deke Cooper. Cooper isn't a terrible safety, but Carolina needs a play-maker in its secondary.


Chicago Bears: Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
Prior to the 2005 NFL Draft, Cedric Benson made it a point to prove he was nothing like Ricky Williams. Well, he's not. Williams was forced out by the league, while Benson just looks like he wants to leave the NFL on his own. With Rex Grossman definitely coming back (groan, goes every single Bears fan), I think Chicago takes a quarterback a bit later in the draft.


Detroit Lions: Curtis Lofton, MLB, Oklahoma
Look, I know my "no team has ever won a Super Bowl with a guy named Paris as its starting middle linebacker" joke has run its course. But I kept it up for so long just to prove a point. If you're getting ready to play a football game and you're going over the scouting reports, the only reason you'd fear a guy named Paris is the prospect of him offering you stale wine and moldy cheese in between plays. And I wonder why I don't get much traffic from France...

But in all seriousness, the Lions need to keep adding talent to their defense. Curtis Lofton is a huge improvement over anyone they currently have.


Cincinnati Bengals: Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
This is getting a bit ridiculous. It seems like the Bengals draft a running back early every year. But the fact remains they're in dire need of an upgrade. It looks like Kenny Irons won't make it back from his ACL injury; Chris Perry gets hurt every year; while Rudi Johnson was almost as sloth-like as Shaun Alexander in 2007, which is saying a lot.


Minnesota Vikings: Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware
I've never seen so many fans of one team torn on a draft pick. Some people love this selection and agree with me that the Vikings need to upgrade the quarterback position to make a run deep into the postseason. Others hate this pick and seem like they're willing to defend Tarvaris Jackson to the very end.

In my opinion, Jackson is one of the five worst starting quarterbacks in the NFL (in no particular order - Jackson, Alex Smith, Kyle Boller, John Beck and Brodie Croyle). I watched anywhere between 9-11 Vikings games this year, and I was never impressed with any of Jackson's attributes, other than his arm strength and mobility.

As much as I'd love to give the Vikings a stout right tackle, there just aren't any worth taking here. A cornerback is a possibility, but this draft is so deep at that position that Minnesota could draft a solid one in Rounds 3 or 4.


Atlanta Falcons: Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
The Falcons have desperately needed a nose tackle ever since unceremoniously - and according to several teammates, unjustly - cutting Grady Jackson. Atlanta was 26th against the run, and a monstrous defensive lineman would help the team improve immensely in that category. The Falcons get an absolute steal in Pat Sims here. Sims is a first-round prospect who slips because this draft class is so deep.


Philadelphia Eagles: Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State
Eagles fans jump for joy as they get a guy they were targeting in the first round. As discussed earlier, the Eagles desperately need a No. 1 receiver - and a large wide out at that. Donovan McNabb's small targets had trouble getting off the line of scrimmage in press coverage this season. At 6-1, 215 pounds, Devin Thomas won't have that problem.

No chance Fred Davis goes here because Philadelphia franchised L.J. "Hands of Stone" Smith. The move just doesn't make any sense to me. Do the Eagles like the fact that he's prone to injuries, or do they prefer his uncanny ability to drop easy passes?


Arizona Cardinals: Terrell Thomas, CB, USC
The Cardinals were eliminated from playoff contention when they lost back-to-back contests to the Seahawks and Saints. The reason for those defeats was because Arizona couldn't stop the pass. Actually, that's an understatement; Matt Hasselbeck and Drew Brees combined to go 48-of-63, 587 yards and six touchdowns. That's only 15 incompletions in two weeks! Pathetic!


Washington Redskins: Jordy Nelson, WR, Kansas State
Washington needs to go after a massive wide out. Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle El were both in and out of the lineup last season, and the Redskins need a large receiver in the mix. At 6-2, 217, Jordy Nelson is much more physically imposing than both Moss and Randle El (both 5-10).


Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
No signal caller in Round 1, so the Buccaneers get their quarterback of the future here. Chad Henne was inconsistent at Michigan, but it's not like he had the greatest coaching staff in the world.





Pittsburgh Steelers: Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
Rumors are abound that the Steelers will be targeting a running back in the first few rounds. They're concerned with Willie Parker's durability, and disgusted with Najeh Davenport's lackluster performance against the Jaguars in the Doggone Playoff. Pittsburgh has needed a power back to pair with Parker ever since Jerome Bettis retired.


Tennessee Titans: Cliff Avril, DE, Purdue
The Titans lost both Antwan Odom and Travis LaBoy in free agency. So, across from Kyle Vanden Bosch, they're down to fossilized Jevon Kearse, and journeyman Bryce Fisher and Jacob Ford, who is coming off an ACL tear. No wonder Albert Haynesworth is yelling at everyone and threatening to stomp on the head of everyone who works in the front office.

Cliff Avril had an outstanding combine and has consequently emerged as an early second-round prospect. At 253 pounds, Avril ran an incredible 4.51 and looked great in all of the drills.


Seattle Seahawks: Fred Davis, TE, USC
Kicking Jerramy Stevens out of Seattle was a good thing. Replacing him with Marcus Pollard and Jeb Putzier? Not so good. The Seahawks need a legitimate, top-notch tight end, and not one who drops 5,000 passes in a playoff game.

I had Jamaal Charles here in one of my previous updates, but I don't think the Seahawks can pass on Fred Davis if he's somehow available.


Green Bay Packers: Erin Henderson, OLB, Maryland
Without many needs, the Packers can afford to go Best Player Available, and that happens to be Erin Henderson, who can add depth to their linebacking corps.


Miami Dolphins: Patrick Lee, CB, Auburn
Derek Anderson dissected Miami's secondary en route to 41 points. Trent Edwards, Kellen Clemens and Kyle Boller did the same a few weeks later. The story of the 2007 Dolphins. They need a true No. 1 cornerback - and about 10 million other things.


Jacksonville Jaguars: Josh Barrett, SS, Arizona State
The Jaguars couldn't stop Ben Roethlisberger or Tom Brady in the playoffs. They really missed Donovin Darius this year, and Sammy Knight wasn't much of a replacement.


Indianapolis Colts: Xavier Adibi, OLB, Virginia Tech
Rob Morris was cut, while Rocky Boiman is a free agent and may not return. The Colts may need an outside linebacker after the 2007 campaign, and Xavier Adibi is yet another second-round steal.


Green Bay Packers: Martellus Bennett, TE, TexasA&M
The Packers love having tons of options at tight end on their roster. In the wake of Bubba Franks getting cut, I think they pick one relatively early in the draft.


Dallas Cowboys: Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina
Julius Jones likely won't be back next year, and the Cowboys clearly don't think Marion Barber can carry the load on his own; otherwise he'd be doing so already instead of starting his first game in the playoffs. The lightning-quick Chris Johnson (4.25 speed) will be a perfect change-of-pass back for the powerful Barber.


New England Patriots: Tom Zbikowski, SS, Notre Dame
I'm aware that the Patriots just signed Tank Williams, but I believe they need somewhat of a more long-term solution at strong safety. Rodney Harrison, who turns 36 in December, will be a free agent after this season.


New York Giants: DaJuan Morgan, FS, N.C. State
Gibril Wilson, New York's top defensive back, recently signed with the Raiders. The Giants need a solid replacement

Fantasy Football 2008 Mock Draft

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Dexter Jackson - WR

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MOCK DRAFT VIDEOS Antwaun Molden - CB

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COWBOYS WILL LOOK TO SIGN PACMAN JONES

Adam Pacman Jones said he would love to play for the Dallas Cowboys, Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News reports that the Cowboys have, in fact, had internal discussions about acquiring Jones.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has to reinstate Jones, and it's not clear whether he will do that. The NFL says Goodell will review the Jones case prior to July training camps, and although the suspension was initially announced as a one-year ban, Goodell seems perfectly content to keep Jones out of the league indefinitely.

If Jones is reinstated,the Titans will try to trade him, and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones seems like just the kind of guy who would give up a mid-round draft pick for him. Unless he's gotten completely out of shape in the last year, Pacman would instantly provide an upgrade both at cornerback and returning kicks.

RAIDERS SIGN DREW CARTER

NFL Network's Adam Schefter reports the Raiders have agreed to terms with WR Drew Carter.

Carter, 26, caught 38 passes for 517 yards (13.6 YPC) and four TDs as the Panthers' third receiver in 2007. He has no trouble separating, but has struggled to do the "little things" well. Carter will get good tutelage from WRs coach James Lofton and be a strong bet to pick up some starts when Javon Walker's knee acts up again. He's currently Oakland's third receiver.

Who we think The Raiders will draft OAKLAND RAIDERS GLENN DORSEY DT | L.S.U. |
It could be hard for Al Davis to pass on Darren McFadden, who is the type of rare athlete he loves, but Justin Fargas played well down the stretch last year and they just signed him to a new contract so they will likely look to address another need. Even before Warren Sapp's retirement defensive tackle was a huge need so they would probably be happy to see Glenn Dorsey still available. Don't rule out Sedrick Ellis here either though because not only do the Raiders have a history of targeting Trojans but he's a better fit for their defensive scheme than Dorsey is and, at least for the time being, the coaching staff has a lot of ties to the Southern Cal program

HOUSTON TEXANS LAND FREE AGENT RB CHRIS BROWN

NFL Network's Adam Schefter reports a deal between the Texans and free agent Chris Brown is expected to be completed by THE END OF TODAY.

It sounds like Houston may be offering Brown a multi-year deal, but we won't know for sure until the contract is finalized. The Texans seem set to take a running back by committee approach in 2008.

Who we think the Texans will draft CHRIS WILLIAMS OT | Vanderbilt |
At the risk of sounding like a broken record the Texans need a left tackle. Sound familiar? It should, because I and every other draftnik out there have been saying it in their mocks for half a decade now. Eventually the law of averages has to work in our favor, right? It goes without saying that neither Ephraim Salaam or Jordan Black are the long-term answer at the position and even if Charles Spencer makes it back from his career-threatening knee injury they plan to move him inside to guard. Chris Williams has a great blend of size and athleticism and would finally give Houston the stud they have been looking for. Cornerback is also a strong possibility here as well.

JETS STILL WORKING ON DEWAYNE ROBERTSON TRADE

Jets DT Robertson trade talks back on

Talks about a potential trade of Jets DT Dewayne Robertson to the Broncos have reportedly been "resurrected."

Newsday suggests that the talks involve Broncos restricted free agent DB Domonique Foxworth, who the Jets could start at cornerback or free safety. Denver will have to examine Robertson's knee carefully before pulling the trigger, however. It's widely believed he has a bone-on-bone condition.

Who we think the Jets will draft DARREN MCFADDEN RB | Arkansas |
Running back is far from the Jets most glaring weakness but just like when Adrian Peterson fell into the Vikings laps a year ago he might be too good to pass up at this point. Thomas Jones is a solid starter but he didn't set the world on fire in his first season as a Jet so they could definitely use a playmaker on offense. McFadden drops this far due to a combination of teams needs and off-the-field concerns but there is no denying his talent and he could have the type of impact that Peterson did for someone. Vernon Gholston and Sedrick Ellis are most likely the other two possibilites here but if he is available McFadden will probably be tough to pass up.

TAMPA BAY BUCS SIGN MARQUES DOUGLAS

Douglas says he'll be the starting left end on first and second down, but shift inside to tackle on passing downs. That might be a generous assessment of his playing time, but Douglas did lead all linemen in tackles behind the line of scrimmage last year. He'll be a solid addition to Tampa Bay's rotation.

Who we think they'll draft KENTWAN BALMER DT | North Carolina |
Last year the Buccaneers finally gave Monte Kiffin some help on defense in the form of Gaines Adams and they would probably be smart to go that route one more time. For many years Tampa had arguably the best set of defensive tackles in the league with Warren Sapp & Booger McFarland but those days are now long gone. Kentwan Balmer is a talented former underachiever who enjoyed a breakout senior campaign and saw his stock rise dramatically. Balmer is the consensus #3 defensive tackle and he could even come off the board earlier than this. Don't rule out Gruden targeting a playmaking wideout like DeSean Jackson, Malcolm Kelly or Mario Manningham either.

LIONS RELEASE RB KEVIN JONES

A stunner, but Jones has undergone surgery for a Lisfranc foot fracture and a torn ACL the last two offseasons. He's uncertain to be ready for the 2008 season and may not be "100%" until 2009. He will make an interesting pickup, but is looking at a backup role this year. It's possible the Lions will re-sign him at a reduced rate, but more likely Tatum Bell, Brian Calhoun, and a highly picked rookie to be named later will take over the Lions backfield

OREGON RUNNING BACK JONATHAN STEWERT NEEDS SURGERY

NFL Network's Mike Mayock reports that Oregon RB Jonathan Stewart may need surgery on his big toe. The procedure would keep him out four to six months.

Stewart suffered a big toe injury in November and didn't miss any games. He also ran the forty at the Combine, but performed no shuttle or cone drills. In the meantime, he had MRIs done and doctors recommended he undergo surgery. Individual teams will evaluate whether surgery is required. Expected to be a first-round pick, his stock will fall dramatically with any team who doesn't medically clear him.

D.J HACKETT SET TO VISIT TAMPA

D.J. Hackett, the third-best receiver in free agency, according to The Sporting News' War Room scouts, will make a stop at One Buc Place as he ratchets up his attempt to find a new team.

Hackett was in Washington visiting the Redskins on Wednesday and has plans to visit the Carolina Panthers on Friday. There's a chance, though, that he never makes it out of Tampa.

Though they reportedly see him as being no different than Michael Clayton, the Bucs' need for receiving help may result in them taking a chance on Hackett, who is coming off an injury-plagued season with the Seattle Seahawks.

Slowed by ankle problems, Hackett, 26, played in six regular-season games last year, catching 32 passes for 384 yards and three touchdowns. He bounced back in the playoffs, catching six balls for 101 yards and a touchdown in Seattle's first-round victory against Washington. He then caught two passes for 15 yards in a second-round loss to Green Bay.

A big target with great leaping ability, the 6-foot-2, 208-pound Hackett is also said to have excellent straight-line speed. However, he might lack the gear necessary to beat defenders deep, scouts say.

In four NFL seasons, he has not played a full 16-game schedule. Still, scouts see him as someone who is developing into a valuable playmaker.

3/13/08 MOCK DRAFT CHANGES

MIA Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
The Dolphins need help everywhere. Their talent level is very low at this point. The defense is old and the offense is lethargic at best. There are many unknowns, but one is crystal clear: they need a QB. Miami gambled on John Beck, passing over a possible franchise QB in Brady Quinn. Now is the time to correct this mistake. Ryan is clearly the best QB prospect in this draft. He compares favorably to Philip Rivers or Eli Manning in his ability. Plus he is a proven winner on a talent-deficient team. Ryan possesses the mental toughness to take the abuse he will most certainly face if he is to start from day one, which the Dolphins probably will do.

STL Jake Long, OT, Michigan
With Miami grabbing Ryan, the door swings wide open for the Rams to select the best available athlete. Glenn Dorsey is an impact defensive player, an area the Rams desperately need help, but Jake Long will solidify a more pressing area: the offensive line. With Orlando Pace getting up in years and the other linemen being average at best, St. Louis will take the best OL available. Long has the talent and desire to one day dominate the entire line. The minute the Rams take him, he will become the team's future leader on the offensive line, taking that mantle from the venerable Pace.

ATL Chris Long, DE, Virginia
The Falcons were looking for help at QB, but with Ryan gone and Brian Brohm quickly slipping out of the first round, Atlanta will select Chris Long who is the best D-lineman prospect out of college in the last few years. Long's draft status shot up after a very impressive combine workout. Long will catapult an already good Falcon defense to an elite status. He should become a fixture in future Pro Bowls.

OAK Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
Oakland would have loved to have Howie's son on its roster, but the super talented McFadden is a nice consolation prize. The Raiders have several good running backs, but no one is super in any area. McFadden will have a chance the minute he arrives at training camp. He demonstrated without any doubt in the combine that he is the best, not only RB, but available athlete in this draft. A true home run threat, the Arkansas' RB is a future star in the NFL. He has a very similar set of skills as of those Adrian Peterson brought to Minnesota last year.

KC Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
The Chiefs were another team that was looking to draft an impact QB, but with both Brohm and Woodson sliding, they have shifted their draft strategy. Besides QB, both lines need a major infusion of talent. Of the two, the offensive line is the more pressing need. Clady, who projects as a left tackle in the NFL, is a great athlete who is more polished than one would expect from a small school. He is already an accomplished pass blocker. He will need to learn how to zone block better, but he has the drive and intensity to, not only pass block, but to open holes for Larry Johnson.

NYJ Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB Tennessee St.
New York makes the draft's first big gamble. The Jets hoped to grab McFadden, but with that opportunity gone, they will shift to the defense side. There are other DBs with more experience, but none as talented as Rodgers-Cromartie who put on a show at the Senior Bowl practices. He will provide the Jets a shutdown cornerback they desperately need. Extremely talented, Rodgers-Cromartie will have time to develop and hone his skills, as he will probably sit behind the Jet's two veteran CBs. However, it would not be a complete surprise if he starts by the middle of the season.

NE Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
The rich get richer. With the recent signing of WR Randy Moss, the Patriots are set on offense for at least a couple of years. But the defense is another story. With age setting in and recent free-agent departures, it is imperative for New England to add an impact playmaker. Gholston is just that. The Ohio State star put on a display of athleticism and sheer power at the combine. He should feel at home playing for a perennial contender. His athletic ability will make the Patriot defense an impressive unit once again.

BAL Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
Baltimore is in a coveted position. They will have an opportunity to grab the second best player in this draft: the massive and destructive Dorsey. A dream pick for them. Although Sedrick Ellis is moving up quickly in draft boards, Dorsey is the safe pick here. He has demonstrated the ability to consistently dominate the best offensive linemen in the nation, plus he is a great run stopper. A true two-gap player, he will add athleticism to an already improved front seven.

CIN Sedrick Ellis, DT USC
Defense and more defense. This is the cry out of Cincinnati every year. This draft fell directly to the Bengals' lap. Ellis, who had vaulted himself to the top of this year's DT class, will be a steal here. In any other draft, with the performance he put up at the Senior Bowl practices and later on, the game where he manhandled anyone in front of him, Ellis would have probably gone within the top three picks. He has demonstrated that his skill set is greater than anyone in this draft, even Dorsey's. He will give the Bengals' an inside destructive force which they had lacked in the past few years. He should start from day one and have the potential to become a Warren Sapp-type defensive lineman. He should dominate the Bengals' D-line for years.

NO Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
The Saints missed the playoffs last year because they could not stop anyone. They have a chance here to improve their porous defense and free safety is one of the areas of biggest concern. Phillips did not have the type of combine scouts ere looking for, but nevertheless, his sheer talent level and instant game changing ability will convince New Orleans to take him here. Phillips is the latest on a long and distinguished line of Hurricane safeties to enter the NFL. Most of them are or were impact players, expect Phillips to continue that tradition. Of all of the DBs in this year's draft class, he is the one that possesses all the skills to become a regular performer at the Pro Bowl.

BUF Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
The Bills are blessed with a young and improving defense. It was their offensive inconsistency, especially in the red zone, that cost the team a playoff berth last season. Kelly is the most NFL-ready wide receiver in this year's draft. Pair him with the ultra quick Lee Evans and a reliable Roscoe Parrish, and Buffalo will have three of the most physically gifted receivers in the league. Kelly's size and leaping ability will make him an instant threat in the red zone and provide quarterback Trent Edwards with regular inside and outlet targets.

DEN Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
The Broncos need help on defense, mostly in the slow linebacker corps and also on the offensive line. Their current unit is not depleted of talent, but they need a star to anchor the line. With Long and Clady gone, Williams offers the best value here. Although he is not as well known as the other prospects, he is as talented as any of them. He is very polished and mechanically sound. He also had an impressive combine effort that solidified his spot as the third best O-lineman on the board. He will give the Broncos' line an infusion of new blood and talent. He is strong, intelligent and flexible enough to grasp and function very well in Denver's complicated blocking scheme. He could eventually become a fixture on the Broncos' line.

CAR Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
The Panthers were set to draft a QB here, most likely Woodson of Kentucky. But with his astonishing decline, Carolina will look elsewhere with this pick. They need help on defense, where their once touted unit has slipped to the middle of the pack and on the offensive line where the unit had been unable to establish running lanes consistently. Keith Rivers would be a nice addition, but the offensive line is where the need is greatest. With Long, Williams and Clady gone, they will choose the up and coming Cherilus. The big Boston College O-lineman brings with him a level of intensity and attitude that this unit needs badly. He will need time and better coaching, but if he work hard, he should have a solid career. A solid and safe pick here.

CHI Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
Don't pay attention to the rumors that the Bears' domination on defense is over. Remember, just one year ago pundits were placing that same Chicago defense with the likes of the 1985 team. Offensive playmakers are what the Bears need. They settled their QB situation, for at least a year, with the signing of Grossman; now they will look at RB. The RB inconsistency led to too many come from behind efforts for a team not built to do it. A good and strong running game will ease the pressure on the inconsistent Grossman. Illinois RB Mendenhall seems like a logical choice, but Stewart is a more impressive player. He not only runs in the low 4.40s (remember, he is 225 pounds of muscle), but he can also catch the ball better than some receivers out of the backfield. Plus, he gives the team a real playmaker, which they badly need.

DET Keith Rivers, LB USC
Detroit is in dire need of defensive help. A speedy cover cornerback and more speed to rush the passer are their primary areas of need. With the signing of CB Leigh Bodden away from Cleveland, the Lions will look at a speed rusher here. There are several interesting prospects still on the board, such as Derrick Harvey and Questin Groves, but neither merits a number 15th pick. Enter Rivers, he is the type of athlete that will inject big playmaking ability back into a declining unit. A fluid and versatile LB, the USC product should find a permanent home on the outside where he can display his impressive cover skills as well as his still developing, but equally impressive, rushing ability.

ARI Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
Believe it or not, the Cardinals are just a couple of impact defensive players away from being a real good football team. For years, the Arizona front office had stockpiled young and versatile offensive players, now it is time for the defense to catch-up. The selection of Harvey makes the most sense here. The Florida product is as talented as any DE on this year's board; the only knock on him is his lack of consistency. With better coaching he could become a destructive force. His speed and athleticism will make Arizona's D-line a more respected unit and ultimately, a unit that might be talented enough to give the Cardinals that long awaited playoff run.

NICK BARNETT PLEADS TO NIGHTCLUB ARREST

Nick Barnett entered into a plea agreement that will allow him to avoid facing a criminal conviction stemming from a nightclub incident last summer, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. A pair of misdemeanor disorderly conduct charges filed against Barnett for the incident at an Appleton nightclub the night of June 16-17 will be dropped if the Green Bay Packers linebacker meets the requirements of the agreement.

Under the league's personal conduct policy, an arrest is enough for the commissioner to consider discipline. Given the result of the plea agreement, Barnett probably won't face suspension, but that is up to the discretion of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. If there is no suspension, Barnett could still be fined

CAROLINA PANTHERS DWAYNE JARRETS BREATHALIZER REPORT

Police records show Carolina receiver Dwayne Jarrett's blood-alcohol level was .12 when he was arrested on a driving while impaired charge, above North Carolina's legal limit of .08, according to ESPN. Mecklenburg County court spokesman Charles Keller said Jarrett's blood-alcohol reading was in a police document delivered to the court Wednesday. A hearing involving Jarrett was continued until April 11. The 21-year-old was arrested early Tuesday in the Charlotte suburb of Mint Hill after police said he crossed the centerline and ran a red light.

In related news, Panthers GM Marty Hurney has stated that D.J. Hackett's visit on Friday, has nothing to do with the status of Jarrett.

D.J. Hackett has a strong interest in playing for the Carolina Panthers, according to The Charlotte Observer. "His goal is to play for a playoff contender and he thinks the Panthers will be that with their quarterback (Jake Delhomme) healthy again," agent Kevin Robinson said. "And he really thinks Charlotte is a nice area."

Hackett, who left Washington without a contract, is scheduled to meet with Tampa Bay today, and Carolina on Friday. Hackett would be a huge boost for Carolina, giving the team a legitimate No. 2 receiver opposite Steve Smith.

MICHAEL STRAHAN NEWS RETIREMENT UPDATE

Michael Strahan still hasn't decided if he'll play for the Giants next season, but after seeing Brett Favre and Warren Sapp pack it in after long, successful careers, he does admit that retirement crosses his mind, according to FOX Sports. "I can't say I don't love to play and don't love to see the guys," Strahan said yesterday morning at a promotional appearance in Times Square. "But when I see guys like Favre and Sapp and [Chiefs guard] Will Shields, all these guys who are players from my era, say, 'Enough's enough' ... Sometimes, you wake up and your body is hurting and you're thinking, 'Man, maybe enough is enough.' You think about it."

Strahan, 36, said he won't make up his mind until after an upcoming vacation.

BUFFALO BILLS LOOK TO ADD JAMES HALL

With three veteran defensive ends on Buffalo's roster many thought the Bills would add a fourth end in the draft, but today's visit by free agent defensive end James Hall indicates the possibility of an alternative approach, according to BuffaloBills.com.

Hall, who was released by the St. Louis Rams earlier this month to avoid paying him a $500,000 roster bonus and $3 million in base salary, is likely viewed by the Bills as a situational pass rusher at this point in his career

BRYANT JOHNSON WILL HAVE A DEAL BY THE WEEKEND

Joel Segal, the agent for free-agent wide receiver Bryant Johnson, said last night that he's in negotiations with three teams, and anticipates having a deal done by the weekend, according to FOX Sports.

Buffalo, Tampa Bay and Washington are thought to be the three teams in the running for Johnson's services

PATRIOTS LOOKING TO CUT TIES WITH TROY BROWN

The Patriots are prepared to part ways with wide receiver Troy Brown, as the team is not planning to offer its all-time leader in receptions a contract for the 2008 season.

A published report out Boston said the team, out of courtesy to Brown, informed the 15-year veteran, who is a free agent, that he was not in their immediate plans and that if he was interested in returning for a 16th NFL season he was free to field offers from other teams.

Patriots spokesman Stacey James declined to confirm the report, citing team policy.

Brown played last year under a one-year deal for the veteran minimum base salary of $820,000, $435,000 of which was guaranteed. He also had a $40,000 signing bonus. The veteran minimum deal this year is $830,000.

SEAN TAYLORS KILLERS SPEEK OUT ON THERE CRIMES

The statement by 17-year-old Eric Rivera Jr. and those by two other suspects were released Wednesday by state prosecutors.

What led up to the Nov. 26 shooting, which authorities say took place in a botched robbery attempt at Taylor's Miami home. Taylor, an All-Pro safety for the Redskins, died the next day from heavy blood loss.

Rivera, like the other suspects from the Fort Myers area, told detectives there were five people on the trip that night, although only four are charged. All five burned their shirts, gloves and other clothes after returning home following Taylor's shooting, he said.

"And why did you guys do this?" asked Miami-Dade police Det. Juan Segovia.

"So nobody can find out who did it," Rivera replied.

The statement's also provide new details on a birthday party he attended in September at Taylor's home. Mitchell said he stayed at the house for several days, helping Taylor cut the grass and make other preparations for the party he was paid $300 in $50 bills by Taylor.

The party was for Sasha Johnson, who was Taylor's sister and who was dating suspect Wardlow's nephew Christopher, Mitchell said. He said Taylor gave Johnson $10,000 in a paper bag as a birthday present, and that he saw other large sums of money in the house.

One suspect Mitchell also said he thought Taylor would be with the Redskins, who played a game that weekend in Tampa, even though he was out with a knee injury. And, he said, the group almost ran out of gas on the way back to Fort Myers but managed to scrape together $2 in change to make it home.

Venjah Hunte's gave a statement , but it provided almost no new details. Hunte's attorney has said his client never went inside Taylor's house and did not take part in the crime.

No statement was released from Charles Wardlow, the fourth suspect.

ATLANTA FALCONS NEWS AND WHO THEY WILL DRAFT

Atlanta Falcons

What they've done: Signed running back Michael Turner and defensive backs Von Hutchins and Erik Coleman.

Biggest statement: Although the Falcons are in desperate need of an upgrade at quarterback, new general manager Thomas Dimitroff understands that the foundation of any offensive rebuilding must begin with a strong running game. Turner's inside rushing power is a perfect fit in the scheme that new coach Mike Smith and new offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey will employ.

Unfinished business: Quarterback should get attention in the draft, but it is unlikely that the Falcons see one that is worthy of the third overall pick. Instead, they will probably use it on one of the draft's best defensive players, LSU tackle Glenn Dorsey.

We think Atlanta Falcons will draft RB Darren McFadden, Arkansas. Quarterback is probably the bigger need for Atlanta but a player like Darren McFadden may be too hard for the organization to pass up on.

ARIZONA CARDINALS LATEST NEWS WHO WILL THEY DRAFT

Arizona Cardinals

What they've done: Restructured contract of Larry Fitzgerald, who was thought to be on his way out the door via a trade this year (with a cap number of $17.4 million due him in 2009 from his original contract, he would have been waived after the season). Signed defensive end Travis LaBoy.

Biggest statement: Finding a way to tie up Fitzgerald to a long-term deal was a defining moment for the Cardinals' organization, demonstrating how serious the team is about being a contender.

Unfinished business: The Cardinals should be able to find a quality running back with the 16th overall pick in the draft.

Look for Arizona Cardinals to draft RB Jonathan Stewart, Oregon
Stewart is a back with good size and speed for a big man. Edge is on the down slope of his career and a change is needed in Arizona.

MICHIGAN OT JAKE LONG SCOUTING REPORT

Height: 6-7, Weight: 320

Weaknesses: Jake Long has had some difficulties at times with off the edge speed rushers…Vernon Gholston may have highlighted some chinks in Jake Long’s armor when he racked up 3 sacks against him in the last regular season game…will have to refine his technique to be a dominant force at the next level…is such a large athlete that it is imperative for him to improve his footwork…the defensive ends in the National Football League get off the line of scrimmage with a burst that many rookies are not prepared for, so Long must work on his quickness in order for the speed rushers not to get the corner on him…


Strengths: Jake Long is one of the better offensive tackle prospects in some time…Long can step in and play left tackle immediately…extremely strong…has an excellent pedigree, and has several years of experience against top competition…ideal frame…plays with an aggressiveness that GMs and scouts like to see …Jake Long is as adapt at run blocking just as he is as pass blocking…a determined player who works to finish every play


Overall: Jake Long is one of the elite talents in the 2008 NFL Draft. Prototypical left tackles are such a coveted commodity in the NFL Draft, so it would be very unlikely for Jake Long to slip outside of the top five selections overall. Long is an aggressive, mean player with terrific natural strength. He should be able to transition to the NFL level as a left tackle, but he is not quite the natural athlete some teams seek. However, the same criticism was leveled at Joe Thomas, and we all saw how that worked out. One of the main reasons Bill Parcells left the Dallas Cowboys’ organization was because of the uncertainty in the Cowboys’ offensive line. It has been said and it is known that Bill Parcells is a defensive guy, but I think he realizes the importance of the offensive line too. Jake Long is the best left tackle to offer in this draft and don’t think Bill Parcells will hesitate to go with him as the first pick.

LSU DT GLENN DORSEY SCOUTING REPORT

Height: 6-2, Weight: 299

Weaknesses: Height and bulk are only average for the position…was injured as a junior and a senior so there are some concerns about his durability…may not have the frame to become a 3-4 NT…he may not be an "elite" athlete..


Strengths: Very productive when healthy against top notch competition…extremely strong and powerful player with a great base…shows the ability to penetrate up the field…also able to hold his own against the rush…plays with good technique…versatile to fit any number of defensive schemes…was the leader and heart of a top notch National Champion defense…unable to be blocked by one man…


Overall: One, if not the top, DT prospects to enter the NFL in the past 10 years, Dorsey showed the ability to dominate in the SEC when healthy. There are some concerns that he does not protect his legs adequately due to his injury history. He projects to work in any defense, but his best position would be as a three technique in the 3-4 defense as he excels when able to operate in space. Look for Glenn to br the # 1 pick in this years 2008 NFL Draft.

DELEWARE QB JOE FLACCO SCOUTING REPORT

Height: 6-6, Weight: 232


Weaknesses: Not the most mobile of quarterbacks…footwork must improve dramatically after playing his career in shotgun spread...did not play at the a top level of collegiate football, so competing against inferior competition is concerning…still a project and will take a lot of work, so expect frequent struggles early on…inconsistent at times with his accuracy...a bit of a project...

Strengths: Has a rocket for a right arm…can throw the ball sideline to sideline…throws a very effective deep ball…has a savvy pocket presence…at 6’6—Flacco sees over the offensive line with ease…runs excellent ball fakes in order to suck in the defense on play action passes…has a very high ceiling…continues to impress, and momentum shall continue all the way until the 2008 NFL Draft…


Overall: Skepticism abounds, but there is a lot to like about the prospects of Joe Flacco in the National Football League. He possibly has the strongest arm of any quarterback entering the 2008 NFL Draft, so many teams will covet him. Like Jay Cutler two years ago, once the snowball of hyperbole surrounding Joe Flacco starts rolling, it will continue to do so until he is selected in the draft. Flacco probably will not make it into the 1st round, but would expect to hear Joe Flacco’s name called in the middle portion of the 2nd round in the 2008 NFL Draft.Look for the Chicago Bears to find a way to land him.

TOP TEN DRAT PICKS WE HAVE MATT RYAN # 8

The draft grades are more or less finalized. A deep class this year - but no clear cut #1 prospect. In fact, four players from the 2007 draft class (Calvin Johnson, Adrian Peterson, Joe Thomas, and JaMarcus Russell) would be ranked #1 in this group. The decisions were hard, but here at the top 10 prospects.

1. Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU, 6-1, 297,
2. Jake Long, OT, Michigan, 6-7, 320, 5.17
3. Chris Long, DE, Virginia, 6-3, 272, 4.75
4. Darren McFadden*, RB, Arkansas, 6-1, 211, 4.33
5. Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC, 6-0, 309, 5.23
6. Vernon Gholston*, DE, Ohio State, 6-3, 266, 4.67 (OLB)
7. Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville, 6-3, 230, 4.83
8. Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College, 6-5, 228,
9. Jonathan Stewart*, RB, Oregon, 5-10, 235, 4.48
10. Ryan Clady*, OT, Boise State, 6-6, 309, 5.18

TOP 3 NFL COMBINE PERFORMANCES

RB Chris Johnson - East Carolina
Speedy all-purpose back ran the fastest sprint at the NFL Combine that keeps as the highest rated senior tailback. He ran a blazing 4.24 time with a lightning 1.40 ten yard split, both numbers the highest at this year's NFL Combine and among the best on record. He also added a 35" VL and a 10'10" BJ. He did not participate in the shuttle or three cone drills. His performance may have elevated him to a top 40 grade. He also won the DraftInsiders.com Poll for fastest sprint at Indy

TE Dustin Keller – Purdue
Athletic smaller tight end had a huge workout and most impressive showing on Day 1. He ran 4.53 and 4.54 times and had an exceptional 38” vertical leap with a solid 26 reps @ 225 lbs. He displayed sure hands and the ability to adjust to the ball. He was on our Top 100 value board prior to the Combine and could move up further at the close of this critical event.

OT Jake Long – Michigan
The top offensive linemen in this year’s class solidified a top 5-10 selection. He came in at 6’7” and 313 lbs. and did a combine best thus far 37 reps @ 225 lbs. He ran a 5.17 and 5,27 times and solidified a top 5-10 selection.

NFL RUMORS AND LATEST NEWS

The Saints have a logjam of middle linebackers trying to return from injury following the additions of Jonathan Vilma, acquired in a trade with the Jets, and the signing of UFA Dan Morgan. Mark Simoneau, last year’s starter in the middle, was re-signed as well. However, if Morgan and Vilma can stay healthy, New Orleans will find a way to get both Pro Bowlers on the field, with Morgan most likely shifting to the weak side to share time with Scott Shanle.


A source close to the Titans wonders if the team got one of the bigger bargains in free agency when it signed ex-Falcons TE Alge Crumpler to a two-year contract. Crumpler’s contract reportedly is for $5 million with a $1 million signing bonus. Concerns about Crumpler’s long-term durability — he has had some knee problems — dampened his market value, but he quickly could become an important part of the Titans’ offense if he can stay healthy. The Titans, who were looking for a replacement for unrestricted free-agent TE Ben Troupe, made Crumpler, 30, their first major free-agent signing.


It’s not out of the question that Eagles CB Lito Sheppard could return to the team. Philadelphia has received a lot of offers for the unhappy cornerback and is said to be boiling them down in an effort to find the best deal. That said, the team’s approach this offseason has been to add useful players, and if the right deal doesn’t come along the Eagles could keep Sheppard for one year and worry about his status after this season.

The Broncos’ linebacker corps is beginning to take shape, thanks to the addition of two free-agent signings — Lions UFA Boss Bailey and Seahawks UFA Niko Koutouvides. Word is D.J. Williams will move from the middle to the weak side and Bailey, the younger brother of Broncos Pro Bowl CB Champ Bailey, will take over on the strong side. That leaves Koutouvides, who made most of his contributions for Seattle on special teams, in the middle. However, while Williams and Bailey are entrenched as starters, Koutouvides could still get beaten out for the starting job by another veteran or rookie.

A team source tells us that he’d put the probability of Chiefs franchised DE Jared Allen signing a multi-year deal before the July 15 deadline at 30-70.

The Bengals signed DE Antwan Odom for less money than it was going to take to bring back Justin Smith, and Odom had four times as many sacks as Smith did a season ago. So it’s easy to see why Cincinnati likes the signing. However, there are some in Tennessee who wonder if Odom is ready to deal with the extra attention he’s going to receive now that he has become one of the Bengals’ highest-profile defensive players.

Could longtime Broncos PK Jason Elam be kicking for the Chiefs in 2008? It appears so. Word is the Chiefs, whose placekicking was lousy in 2007, are seriously considering offering Elam, an unrestricted free agent, the type of money that would be difficult for him to turn down.

Have the Redskins cooled on WR D.J. Hackett? The market for the free-agent receiver has been colder than many expected, and even the WR-needy Redskins and head coach Jim Zorn — who coached Hackett in Seattle — appear to be leaning in other directions right now, though we hear that could change.

After failing to deal DT Dewayne Robertson to the Bengals, the Jets continue to harbor hope that they can find a willing partner to obtain his services. It might be difficult to do, seeing as how his bum knee continues to raise concerns for would-be suitors.

Our Packers sources tell us that, even before Brett Favre announced his retirement, the team had its eye on UFA QB Quinn Gray of the Jaguars, who is now being seriously considered for the backup job behind Aaron Rodgers, among numerous other possibilities via free agency or trade.



We hear the Rams would really like some insurance at the CB position because of concerns about the long-term status of starting CB Fakhir Brown. Brown missed four games at the start of the 2007 season for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy and is one more mishap away from facing a one-year suspension. Team insiders tell us the Rams were very interested in free-agent CBs Jacques Reeves and Drayton Florence, before they signed with other teams, and are one of about 15 teams that have recently looked into the availability of Eagles CB Lito Sheppard.

After going underground for a month or so following what turned out to be a wretched season, both physically and mentally, our Niners sources tell us QB Alex Smith is feeling a lot better these days and is enthusiastically welcoming the challenge of battling Shaun Hill for the starting QB job. Smith has just begun throwing again, with his range of motion finally back to normal following December shoulder surgery. After the surgery, Smith said his arm stayed in a sling for six weeks.



We hear the Seahawks have only just begun to revamp the tight-end position with the acquisition of free agent Jeb Putzier, who caught just six passes for the Texans last season. In the best-case scenario, team insiders tell us the Seahawks envision Putzier as a much more dependable No. 3 tight end than Bennie Joppru, who, according to one source, was “just dreadful” last season. Word is the team is more than willing to live with Will Heller as the No. 2 tight end, but considers finding an upgrade via the draft or free agency from disappointing 2007 starter Marcus Pollard a top priority.

We hear the Cardinals have an interest in bringing back Tim Hasselbeck to compete for the No. 3 QB job with either a late-round draft pick or a rookie free agent. As for Tim Rattay, word is he’s probably out of the picture.

In dire need of O-line help, we hear Bears head coach Lovie Smith is intrigued by Boise State junior OT Ryan Clady as an option with the 14th overall pick in the 2008 draft and is expected to give Clady a private workout in Boise, Idaho, some time early this coming week.

We hear that it does not appear the Texans are going to push to re-sign RB Ron Dayne. Houston has interest in ex-Buccaneers and Falcons RB Warrick Dunn.

The signing of Ravens ST Brendon Ayanbadejo fits Baltimore’s free-agency blueprint: He came at an affordable price, and he upgrades the special-teams coverage units — a group near and dear to the heart of new head coach John Harbaugh, who spent nine years coaching the Eagles’ special teams.

NFL BEST AND WORST FREE AGENT SIGNINGS

Best move: Patriots re-signing WR Randy Moss
The Patriots have taken some personnel hits this offseason. But the one free agent they couldn’t afford to lose — WR Randy Moss — will remain in Foxborough after agreeing to a three-year deal worth a reported $27 million. Yes, the Patriots have won multiple Super Bowls without Moss. And yes, the Patriots have lost the only Super Bowl in which Moss played for New England. But given his ability to stretch the field and open up a record-setting offensive attack, his return was paramount to the Patriots making another run in 2008. Moss may have been able to get a few more dollars elsewhere, but nowhere would he have been put in a situation that allows him to succeed so easily as in New England.

Best move: Packers trading DT Corey Williams to the Browns for a second-round draft pick. I really thought the Packers were shrewd by franchising DT Corey Williams and getting a second-rounder for him. They liked him as a player but didn’t want to pay him. The Browns clearly did. So the Packers made the smart move of franchising Williams, which inflated his value and gave them security to work out a deal. He has some talent, but he always did his best work in a rotation. I think the Browns overpaid for him. It’s subtle moves like this that make Ted Thompson a good GM.

Best move: (tie) Titans signing ex-Falcons TE Alge Crumpler and Saints signing ex-Panthers MLB Dan Morgan.

I can’t fault Atlanta for cutting Crumpler or Carolina for tiring of waiting for Morgan to stay healthy. Instead, I’ll praise the Titans for signing Crumpler to a low-risk two-year contract and the Saints for signing Morgan to an incentive-laden one-year contract. Both players can easily outplay those deals … if they can stay on the field, of course.

WORST NFL FREE AGENT MOVES


Worst move: Raiders re-signing DT Tommy Kelly
There are curious moves and then there are baffling moves. The Raiders’ seven-year, $50 million re-signing of DL Tommy Kelly qualifies as the latter. When fully healthy, the versatile Kelly is a solid NFL starting defensive lineman. Nothing more, nothing less. But, the Raiders, perhaps panicking knowing that Warren Sapp was retiring, inked him to one of the richest contracts for a defender in league history, eating up a huge chunk of valuable cap space in the process. Throw in the fact that he’s coming off a reconstructed knee that he blew out in Week Eight, and we have ourselves the craziest decision that Al Davis has executed.

Worst move: Jets signing ex-Cardinals OLB Calvin Pace
Last season, Pace notched 98 tackles and 6.5 sacks; in his four previous seasons, he had a grand total of 84 tackles and 7.5 sacks to this credit. On the basis of his ’07production, Pace reportedly received a six-year, $42 million deal from the Jets that includes $22 million guaranteed. Yes, consistent pass-rush pressure is hard to come by, but the Jets paid significant money for a player who 1) has played at a high level for only one season and 2) now has to learn the intricacies of a new defense.


Worst move: Bears signing ex-Redskins WR Brandon LloydThe Bears lost Bernard Berrian to the division-rival Vikings and released WR Muhsin Muhammad, making the WR position an area of serious need. So, they’ve added Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd. Booker is still capable, leading the Dolphins in receiving a season ago. There are questions, however, about whether Lloyd has ever been capable in the NFL. He was a fourth-round pick of the 49ers in 2003, but his antics and lack of commitment led to his being traded to the Redskins in ’06. What did Daniel Snyder get in exchange for $10 million guaranteed? 25 catches and no touchdowns in two seasons. Lloyd has some intriguing skills. But he’s a career underachiever who has already made his fortune. There’s little reason to believe he will all of a sudden “get it” in Chicago