The long and bumpy road to Super Bowl XLVI

Sport
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From mediated talks to arguments before an appeals court, the NFL’s labor dispute has reached another critical stage.

The league and its players completed three straight days of not-so-secret negotiations Thursday, and now head for the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals in St. Louis for a hearing that could prove pivotal in the nearly three-month lockout.

The three-judge panel will ultimately decide whether the lockout should continue, and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and union chief DeMaurice Smith, among others, are expected to be inside the courtroom on Friday.

Training camps, meanwhile, normally would open in about seven weeks, but this, of course, is no normal year for pro football.

Ben Leber, one of 10 plaintiffs on the still-pending antitrust lawsuit against the league, said the players haven’t discussed a specific drop-dead date for reaching an agreement to ensure the on-time start of training camps. But he said it’s necessary to have a date to reach a deal.

“Both sides have a day, whether they want to make it public or not,” Leber said. “The biggest challenge is going to lie with whose day is going to come up first. Once it got to this point, I think it was just a good guess based on most corporate labor disputes that nothing was going to get done until the 11th hour. Now it depends on which 11th hour gets here first.”

Goodell and owners Jerry Jones, Robert Kraft and John Mara were among those joined in a Chicago suburb by Smith and a group of players, including NFLPA president Kevin Mawae, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Arthur Boylan. Both sides issued statements saying they would honor a court-ordered confidentiality agreement. Boylan then canceled mediation sessions scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday in Minneapolis.

A person with knowledge of the talks told The Associated Press that the term “settlement negotiations” doesn’t necessarily mean an agreement is near. The person, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the judge’s confidentiality order, said canceling next week’s sessions was simply a way to keep the process as private as possible.

More likely than another round of mediated talks with Boylan would be a similar secret meeting without him - between just the league and players, who have been locked out since March 12.

In the past, a clandestine approach has helped negotiations. Such meetings between former union executive director Gene Upshaw and former Commissioner Paul Tagliabue often led to progress on a new collective bargaining agreement.

The NFL was granted a delay in the execution of an injunction against the lockout in late April. Though Friday’s hearing may not produce an immediate decision, one sports labor expert believes it will be expedited. With the scheduled start to the regular season barely three months away, there is an urgency to push forward.

“They know that they have to move fast. We all know that training camps open in mid-July,” said Jay Krupin of the Washington-based firm EpsteinBeckerGreen. “I wouldn’t be surprised if some of their clerks are already starting writing their opinion.”

New Orleans Saints safety Darren Sharper said he hasn’t heard specific drop-dead dates, but believes by the start of August, “something has to be etched in stone,” as far a new agreement.

“It looks bleak right now, but I’m thinking that something has to get worked out because too many people will be affected negatively if it does not get worked out,” Sharper said.

As for the last three days of meetings, Jones said it simply was good to be talking again, although not all the 32 team owners were made aware of the sessions beforehand.

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has said he believed some decisions on opening training camps late next month needed to be made by July 4.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/football/nfl/06/02/goodell-smith.ap/index.html#ixzz1ODaknTPm

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Still unable to reach an agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement that would save the 2011 season, NFL owners and players have warily placed the future of their league in the hands of three judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.

Judges Steven Colloton, William Benton and Kermit Bye will hear oral arguments from each side’s attorneys Friday at 10 a.m. CDT in a St. Louis courtroom. The attorneys will provide conflicting accounts of whether U.S. District Judge Susan Nelson was correct in enjoining the NFL’s lockout, which bars NFL players from their employment with NFL teams. The three judges, two of whom have twice voted to temporarily stay Judge Nelson’s order, will likely issue their decision within the next month.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

1. What will happen during the hearing?

The substance of the hearing will begin when an attorney for the NFL and its teams, the appellants, delivers a 30-minute oral argument summarizing why the three-judge panel should vacate Judge Nelson’s preliminary injunction and enable the NFL to continue the lockout, at least until there is a verdict in a trial of Tom Brady et al. v. NFL. Such a trial is unlikely to occur until 2012 or later.

An attorney for the players, the appellees, will then deliver a 30-minute oral argument summarizing why the three-judge panel should sustain Judge Nelson’s preliminary injunction and prevent the NFL from conducting a lockout until the trial. The appellees’ attorney, in other words, will argue that the lockout is illegal and thus the players should be able to go back to work.

Unlike real or dramatized courtroom trials, appellate hearings are conducted without juries, witnesses or evidence. Instead, three judges listen intently to precise, often narrow legal arguments furnished by the attorneys, who in this case are prominent appellate lawyers. Paul Clement, who served as Solicitor General during President George W. Bush’s administration, will argue for the NFL, while Theodore “Ted” Olson, who successfully represented George W. Bush in George W. Bush v. Al Gore and who would precede Clement as a Solicitor General, will argue for the players. Clement and Olson are considered two of the nation’s top appellate lawyers and both have won many oral arguments and repeatedly shown intellectual dexterity and quick thinking. One of them, however, will lose Friday.

While appellate hearings are generally considered less dramatic than jury trials – neither a “smoking gun” piece of evidence nor an engrossing witness will emerge – they can still prove extremely intense. Appellate judges can, at any time, interrupt attorneys during their oral arguments and ask a series of difficult, abstract or even off-topic questions. The attorneys have no choice but to respond politely and substantively. On occasion a three-judge panel is regarded as a “hot bench”, whereby the judges ask many questions, sometimes to the point of preventing the attorneys from completing their oral arguments in the allotted time.

While not a perfect tea leaf by any means, if the judges seem more hostile to Clement or Olson, they may be signaling that they are leaning in favor of the other side.

2. What will be the key legal arguments?

Most of the debate will center on whether labor law or antitrust law is the most appropriate source of federal law to evaluate Judge Nelson’s order to enjoin the NFL’s lockout. Complicating the analysis is the undeveloped role of the National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”), which is still investigating the unfair labor practices charge filed by the NFL on Feb. 14.

In its charge, the NFL contends that the NFLPA illegally disclaimed its representation of NFL players in order to subject the league to antitrust litigation. If the NFL ultimately prevails before the NLRB, the players’ antitrust litigation would be jeopardized. The litigation requires that the NFLPA no longer exclusively represents NFL players in employment matters; a sham decertification would mean the NFLPA still exclusively represents those players. The NLRB, however, has neither acted on the NFL’s charge nor indicated when it will do so, thereby leaving faster-acting judges to make legal assessments without the benefit of NLRB guidance.

In terms of specific arguments to be brought before the three-judge panel, the NFL believes that Judge Nelson failed to properly apply the Norris-LaGuardia Act, a federal labor law that disfavors the use of injunctions while labor and management are at impasse. The players, for their part, contend that the Act only applies in the context of strikes, which are initiated by employees, rather than lockouts, which are initiated by management. The players also portray a labor law such as the Norris-LaGuardia Act as unrelated to their antitrust litigation since neither the NFLPA nor any other union represents them.

Expect oral arguments on the Norris-LaGuardia Act to dwell on whether certain words contained in the Act should be read literally or expansively. The arguments will also offer conflicting accounts of how Congress, which passed the Act during the height of the Great Depression in 1932 and undoubtedly without a second’s thought to its potential application to disputes between billionaire team owners and millionaire players, intended the Act to be used.

The two sides will also contest whether the NFLPA’s decertification was a sham. If, as the players contend, the NFLPA no longer represents them, and if the sides are no longer bargaining in good faith, then the federal labor exemption, which insulates collectively bargained rules from antitrust review, would no longer apply. Although the NLRB, and not the three-judge panel, will determine whether the NFLPA’s decertification was legitimate or a sham, the panel likely will link its ultimate decision to its views on that subject.

Regarding the NFLPA’s purported decertification, expect the NFL to insist that through federal mediation, litigation settlement discussions and other channels, the owners and players continue to collectively bargain in good faith, thus rendering the NFLPA’s formal status as the players’ exclusive bargaining unit immaterial. The players will counter that the NFLPA no longer represents them and that they never would have agreed to mediation and settlement discussions if doing so would have barred their antitrust claims. The players will also highlight Judge Nelson’s reasoning that NLRB’s ongoing review of the NFL’s unfair labor practices charge should not stop review of the players’ antitrust arguments.

Lastly, the two sides will furnish contradictory takes on how well Judge Nelson applied the four factors necessary for the players to receive a preliminary injunction. The four factors are:

a) whether the players would probably win on the merits of their antitrust claims in a full trial;

b ) whether the players showed a threat of irreparable harm (meaning a harm that cannot later be remedied by money damages);

c) whether the players proved that a preliminary injunction would not harm the NFL more than it helps NFL players;

d) whether the players demonstrated that a preliminary injunction would serve the public’s interests.

In a previous column, I examined the competing arguments for each of the four factors. While each factor will receive attention Friday, expect the topic of harms to the players and owners to attract the most scrutiny. The players will maintain that a lockout causes irreparable harm, since it suspends their careers in a state of limbo that only becomes more damaging over time. Free agents, for example, cannot sign with teams and rookie players cannot begin the often difficult transition from college football to NFL football.

In an attempt to portray the owners as the lone villains and to claim solidarity with other NFL employees, the players will also highlight an amicus brief filed by NFL coaches on behalf of the players. In the brief, the coaches described how they would suffer irreparable harm if the 2011 NFL season is lost. Finally, the players will point out that not one NFL team has shown that it would lose money if a 2011 NFL season took place. Team owners would thus seemingly escape harm if a court enjoined their lockout.

The league, however, will likely emphasize that forcing it to resume business operations in the absence of a collective bargaining agreement would result in a very different and probably less popular and less profitable league. The salary cap, draft and other restrictions on competition would all be vulnerable to antitrust challenge and resulting treble damages.

In response, the league and its teams would be poised to moderate or even outright eliminate restrictions on players, which have helped sustain a profitable business model for small- and large-market teams alike. Alternatively, the league might be tempted to agree on a new collective bargaining agreement with players in which the players would enjoy the leverage. Both possibilities, in the NFL’s view, would be harmful to their interests.

3. Who will win?

The NFL enters the hearing as the clear favorite. Two of the three panel judges have twice voted to stay Judge Nelson’s order. In doing so, they have revealed deep skepticism of the players’ legal arguments.

That said, Ted Olson is a highly persuasive advocate who has swayed even the most disbelieving judges. Perhaps he can engineer a comeback win for the players.

4. What happens after the panel makes its decision in June or July?

Technically, the losing party would be left with two improbable sources of appeal: an “en banc” re-hearing by the 11 active judges on the Eighth Circuit or a U.S. Supreme Court review of an interlocutory order. While the league would have a slight edge over the players in obtaining one of these appeals, neither party would enjoy encouraging odds.

More practically, a victory for the NFL would permit the league to continue the lockout through the 2011 NFL season. Players would then have the unenviable choice of either acquiescing on a new CBA – which probably contains, from their perspective, unfavorable terms, such as a rookie wage scale, an 18-game season and a reduction in salaries for future player contracts – or sitting out the 2011 season, and not getting paid or receiving healthcare financed by others, in hopes that the owners might relent on some of their demands.

A league victory might also cause dissension among players, who have, to date, appeared unified. Some players would undoubtedly want to get a new collective bargaining agreement done, even a deal with unfavorable terms. Yet other players, and perhaps those who enjoy substantial savings or other sources of income, might be more willing to sit out a 2011 NFL season. Player agents, though not formally part of the discussions, may also take on a greater advocacy role for players to reach a deal, as player agents are generally not paid unless players are paid.

Alternatively, if the players win before the three-judge panel, the NFL would resume business operations and, given the unattractive prospect of antitrust scrutiny, be poised to reach a new, and more player-friendly, collective bargaining agreement with the players. The league might instead contemplate a total shutdown of operations, though such a plan would be unlikely to work.

It is probably safe to say that whichever party loses before the three-judge panel will be encouraged, if not outright pressured, by NFL fans to accept defeat, agree to terms for a new collective bargaining agreement and get back to football.

5. While the NFL and players wait for the panel’s decision, will the lockout continue?

Yes, and given that a decision will likely take several weeks, if not a month, players can expect to remain locked out in June.

Michael McCann is a sports law professor and Sports Law Institute director at Vermont Law School and the distinguished visiting Hall of Fame Professor of Law at Mississippi College School of Law. He also teaches a sports law and analytics reading group at Yale Law School.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/michael_mccann/06/02/nfl-hearing/index.html#ixzz1ODcG74LX

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Fuckin hell!

The Virginia Mason Athletic Center sits on an eastern bank of Lake Washington, a short drive (traffic permitting) from downtown Seattle. Home to the Seahawks since August 2008, the $60 million complex features an indoor practice facility, three outdoor fields and a weight room large enough for a royal wedding.
In previous off-seasons this is where quarterback Matt Hasselbeck and tight end John Carlson would come to train. It offers state-of-the-art equipment, manicured fields, certified trainers and physical therapists, a strength-and-conditioning program tailored to each player’s needs and a cafeteria that serves healthy meals.
Yet on a rainy morning Hasselbeck and Carlson are working out at a private gym in nearby Bellevue. The facility sits in a shopping plaza along with a Goodwill store, a Mattress Depot, a paint distributorship and a Chinese restaurant. The regular gym patrons try to be discreet, but they sneak a few peeks – it’s not every day an NFL quarterback shows up to work out.
It’s even rarer to find him throwing passes to his tight end in the parking lot behind the gym. That’s where Hasselbeck and Carlson practice their routes later in the day. At one point the football rolls into a puddle at the base of a Dumpster. The players look quizzically at each other, as if to say: Who’s going to get it? Maybe it’s time to call it quits. But Carlson mans up, grabs the ball, tosses it to Hasselbeck, and the training resumes.

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Tennessee Titans wide receiver Kenny Britt was arrested again in New Jersey, a day after appearing in court for a previous arrest on traffic charges.

Police said the former Rutgers star was charged with resisting arrest after two plainclothes officers suspected he was carrying a marijuana cigar and attempted to handcuff him at a Hoboken car wash Wednesday evening.

Hoboken Detective Sgt. Sam Williams said the detectives from the city’s vice squad, Det. Steven Aguiar and Det. David DiMartino, were in line to pay at the car wash when they detected an odor of marijuana, and Aguiar noticed Britt allegedly holding a brown, rolled cigar they believed to be the source.

Both detectives identified themselves as police, Williams said, and attempted to handcuff Britt, who allegedly tried to wrestle free and push away while attempting to crush the cigar in his fist. Williams said police believe a man who was with Britt may have disposed of the cigar in the scuffle as police wrestled Britt to the floor and handcuffed him; the other man has not been charged.

Britt is charged with obstructing the administration of the law, resisting arrest and tampering with or fabricating evidence. Police did not recover the cigar or find any drugs on Britt, and he has not been charged with any drug-related offenses. Britt was released on his own recognizance, according to police, and has a June 16 court date.

The Associated Press left a message for Britt’s attorney Thursday afternoon.

New Titans coach Mike Munchak said he didn’t know much about Britt’s latest arrest when asked by reporters after an event at the team’s headquarters with Special Olympics athletes and others. Coaches can’t contact players during the NFL lockout, and Munchak said they are trying to find out details on what he called probably a case of “making some bad decisions.”

“Unfortunately, he’s had a few things that’ve come up for him in the offseason,” Munchak said in video posted on the team’s website. “That’s something we’ll deal with when he comes in.”

Britt pleaded guilty Tuesday to separate motor vehicle violations related to an April arrest on speeding charges in his hometown of Bayonne. He must pay a fine of more than $400 as part of that plea deal on careless driving charges. He was not present when the plea was entered Tuesday during a municipal court hearing, and Britt will have to sign a court affidavit before the plea can become official.

Britt initially faced felony charges in the April 12 incident. Bayonne police said Britt drove his Porsche at 71 mph in a 55-mph zone and then led police on a chase. Those charges were dropped last week by Hudson County prosecutors, who cited Britt’s lack of a criminal record.

Hudson County Prosecutor Edward DeFazio said Thursday he was reviewing Britt’s Hoboken arrest and would determine which jurisdiction would handle the matter.

Britt has had several other run-ins with authorities. He was arrested last year for three outstanding traffic tickets and is accused of not paying a bail bond he helped secure for a friend.

Nashville police stopped him in August during training camp, ticketing him for driving without a license because he obtained a photo ID after misplacing his license.

He also was accused of being involved in a bar fight Oct. 22 in Nashville, but authorities later decided not to charge him.

Titans coach Jeff Fisher benched Britt after repeated mistakes during a preseason game.

Britt left Rutgers after his junior season and was the Titans’ first-round draft pick in 2009. He tied for second on the Titans with 42 catches in 2010 and led all Tennessee receivers with 9 touchdowns and a per-catch average of 18.5 yards.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/football/nfl/06/09/britt.ap/index.html#ixzz1Ot4HPWA4

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:lol:

Someone’s really going to have to set up a national game of snakes and ladders or something to keep these guys busy if the lockout goes on for much longer. Half the league could be in jail by the time they get the thing sorted otherwise.

66

Jaysus. If this goes down then the Jets will reach a level of detestability never before seen.

67

No, Aaron, no.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d820503b7/article/packers-rodgers-pursuing-different-records-during-lockout

Replace a legend? Check.

Win a Super Bowl and be selected the game’s MVP? Check.

Start a record label? If you’re Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, why not?

Rodgers has been working with a band called The Make from his hometown of Chico, Calif., and getting his new record label – Suspended Sunrise Recordings – up and running during the lockout, according to television station KRCR.

“This is the first step in the process,” said Rodgers. “My business partner and I have been working for a couple of years trying to put this whole thing together. We’re excited about starting the process, to see what happens with this band. Obviously football is my first priority, music is my passion after that.”

The band shot its first video, for a song entitled “Get It,” on Sunday at a Northern California bowling alley.

“We needed a bowling alley for the shoot,” band member Jeff Schneeweis said. “We contemplated going to L.A., but we live in Chico. There happened to be a bowling alley up in Paradise that was perfect for the job.”

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Two questions, one of which is a three-parter.

1a. Can I have an update please on the lockout?
1b. What does this mean for Hard Knocks? Are we to do without a series this summer?
1c. Has this stalled the usual transfer activity etc?

  1. CLD - any objection if I change the thread title from “… Super Bowl…” to “… Superbowl…” which I think is incorrect I think but is consistent with previous threads and also turns up in a search for “superbowl” which this thread doesn’t? Until now but the above question will have changed that.
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[b]NFC NORTH

Chicago Bears[/b]

Money is no object: The offensive line needs a jolt of physical, consistent talent and it begins with Harvey Dahl, but doesn’t end there. The Bears could well make a play on any of the highly touted guards and tackles. They may be better served splitting big money with receiver Santana Moss or Santonio Holmes.

Smart shopper: Value signings along the offensive line could prove invaluable in the physical NFC North. San Diego tackle Jeromey Clary is a valuable if unheralded player on a national scale.

Detroit Lions

Money is no object: The once-woeful Lions could become one of the league’s dominant and marquee defenses overnight if they sign Nnamdi Asomugha. With Ndamukong Suh up front and Asomugha shutting down one side of the field, the road to the playoffs goes directly through the owner’s checkbook.

Smart shopper: An addition or two at linebacker clearly is necessary. Without a lot of money to spend presuming an Asomugha signing, the best fits and price tags would be the oft-injured but consistent Justin Durant or the unproven but skilled James Anderson.

Green Bay Packers

Money is no object: It may seem that the Super Bowl champs don’t need much, especially with injured players returning. But the DL is one big injury away from being a soft spot. Aubrayo Franklin should be the premiere target.

Smart shopper: The Packers are in a position where they can sign players for a specific need. Texans WR/KR Jacoby Jones fits the value here, as does, perhaps, Reggie Bush, who could be a spot receiver and kick returner.

Minnesota Vikings

Money is no object: It’s becoming obvious Donovan McNabb will be in play for the Vikings, but would that work with Christian Ponder presumably on the fast-track to playing time? If the Vikes sign McNabb and go for a safety, like Eric Weddle, it will be clear they want to win and win soon.

Smart shopper: If Ponder is the quarterback of the future, the best play clearly will be signing Trent Edwards, who would know his role and help the rookie. The need signings could come at safety, where Roman Harper or Michael Huff could fit the role.

[b]NFC SOUTH

Atlanta Falcons[/b]

Money is no object: There simply won’t be a better all-around fit in free agency than Charles Johnson, a Georgia product, and the Falcons. Johnson will be a big-ticket item, but with the Falcons on the brink of greatness, they should over-spend. Next-best target: Ray Edwards.

Smart shopper: The biggest priority will be signing their own offensive linemen. But if the Texans’ Rashad Butler and Pittsburgh’s Trai Essex become available as unrestricted free agents, they fit the Falcons’ style. Butler is a versatile tackle who could fit in at guard. Essex is a big, power lineman that can play both sides of the center, too.

Carolina Panthers

Money is no object: The Panthers likely will lose sack specialist Charles Johnson and most likely DeAngelo Williams. They’ll need a splash headliner. Donovan McNabb is it. He also would take off some of the pressure to play Cam Newton too soon.

Smart shopper: If receiver Sam Hurd hits the open market, he’s the type of player who could fit now and help later as well. At 26, he’s young enough to be there when or if Newton develops. T.J. Houshmandzadeh might be another fit.

New Orleans Saints

Money is no object: Whether or not Lance Moore hits the open market, they need to look at receiver. Braylon Edwards would come at a premium price, but would be a perfect fit and could perform well under Sean Payton and Drew Brees.

Smart shopper: Even after the draft, the linebacking corps needs experience and depth. Zac Diles or Ben Leber could be good fits and decent value, while Rocky McIntosh is a logical fit, having played for Gregg Williams previously.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Money is no object: Any team that has Nnamdi Asomugha in their sites is going to have to pay a premium price – the Bucs will make sure. No team will have more cap flexibility. The Bucs also could pick up an elite back like Ahmad Bradshaw … or maybe even both.

Smart shopper: Depth and value at running back could come in the form of Reggie Bush, who has knee problems, or Florida native Fred Taylor, who is contemplating retirement. Both could fit in nicely with a younger, bigger back.

[b]NFC WEST

Arizona Cardinals[/b]

Money is no object: Paul Posluszny and Stephen Tulloch both should be targeted, presuming the Cardinals will trade for a top-end quarterback rather than sign a mediocre one. Posluszny would be the first choice, but Tulloch is tough, still young and could anchor the defense.

Smart shopper: Floyd Womack and Chester Pitts are similar stories who could blossom again. Both are versatile, at the ends of their respective careers, but still capable. Either or both could help the Cards’ OL.

St. Louis Rams

Money is no object: Only two names should be dancing in Rams fans’ heads – Brandon Mebane and Barry Cofield. If the Rams land either of those two playmaking DTs, they’ll become an impact defense.

Smart shopper: There may not be a better hidden gem on the market for the Rams than Steve Slaton. After a tremendous rookie year, Slaton slumped, then was benched in favor of NFL rushing leader Arian Foster and Derrick Ward. Slaton is great in space and perfect for Sam Bradford … and he’ll come cheap.

San Francisco 49ers

Money is no object: Sidney Rice and Jim Harbaugh could be a perfect match. Rice will fetch a big payday, but fits Harbaugh’s style perfectly and will have a chip on his shoulder coming off an injury.

Smart shopper: A fullback like Pro Bowler Vonta Leach makes everyone better – on the offensive line, as well as at tailback. Leach is a hard-hitting, smart player who can plant linebackers, as well as catch the ball in the red zone.

Seattle Seahawks

Money is no object: The Charlie Whitehurst era looks set to begin, with Matt Hasselbeck one of the premier QB free agents likely to depart. Whitehurst needs someone to either push him or take the job. Matt Moore of Carolina or Trent Edwards should be the players targeted.

Smart shopper: Pete Carroll likes to go off the grid sometimes. If a Moore or Edwards is not signed, why not Vince Young, the player who beat Carroll for the 2005 NCAA national championship? Carroll has a knack with players searching for a new identity or rebirth and VY definitely fits the bill.

[b]NFC EAST

Dallas Cowboys[/b]

Money is no object: There have been issues at safety for the past five years at least. Going hard after Eric Weddle or Michael Huff are musts. And no matter what, the Cowboys must do what it takes to sign tackle Doug Free.

Smart shopper: A well-traveled pro like Chester Pitts would bring experience and depth to an offensive line in need of both. Tampa Bay vet Davin Joseph could fit the same role.

New York Giants

Money is no object: Re-signing Ahmad Bradshaw trumps all other goals, but if that cannot be done, DeAngelo Williams, Michael Bush and Jason Snelling, in that order, should be the targets.

Smart shopper: Barrett Ruud is coming off a bad year and there are questions about his ability to sustain a high level of play. He’s a fantastic tackler and leader, however, and still is just 28.

Philadelphia Eagles

Money is no object: The Eagles must go all-in for Nnamdi Asomugha in order to compete in this division and fortify the defense. And if Asomugha signs elsewhere, then Ike Taylor cannot slip through their fingers.

Smart shopper: It may be a move that ultimately blows up, but with Kevin Kolb on the way out, Vince Young will be released by the Titans and could be in the perfect spot behind Michael Vick and under the tutelage of Andy Reid.

Washington Redskins

Money is no object: Before the 'Skins settle in on a receiver or quarterback target, they should go for Falcons tackle Tyson Clabo or Ravens guard Marshall Yanda. They’ll be expensive, but quarterbacks would be much more willing to come to town with that kind of talent up front.

Smart shopper: Mike Shanahan insists he’s good with John Beck at QB, but OC Kyle Shanahan covets Texans backup Matt Leinart, who could be available. Also, Saints DT Remi Ayodele is one of the most unheralded but effective tackles in the league and could step in nicely.

[b]AFC NORTH

Baltimore Ravens[/b]

Money is no object: Want to get twice the bang for your buck? If the Ravens could somehow pry Ike Taylor from Pittsburgh, they could hurt their division rivals and bolster their secondary. The priority at wide receiver should be Sidney Rice, who could take the double-team pressure off Anquan Boldin and give the Ravens the deep threat that Donte Stallworth never was.

Smart shopper: The answer to the Ravens’ secondary problems may already be in uniform. The rest of the league seems to appreciate Josh Wilson more than the Ravens do – more specifically Ravens fans. At receiver, Sam Hurd may not be a Cowboy anymore and offers an elusive element and potential at a value price, as would Jacoby Jones, whom the Texans may not re-sign as a restricted free agent.

Cincinnati Bengals

Money is no object: Eric Weddle is about to get paid big money, after establishing himself as an elite safety with the Chargers. The Bengals are going to have to pay CB Johnathan Joseph if they want to keep him. But if somehow, someway they can do both, they’ll be a factor in one of the toughest divisions in football. Another place to splurge might be on DE Charles Johnson.

Smart shopper: The Bengals will prioritize re-signing Cedric Benson, but even if they do, he had an uneven year and needs help. Stock is trending downward on Miami’s Ronnie Brown and he’s about to hit the perilous 30-year-old mark. But he can run and catch in spots, as well as still make big plays.

Cleveland Browns

Money is no object: The Browns’ search for a top-tier receiver to pair with QB Colt McCoy should begin with Malcolm Floyd. He’s a young 27, can stretch the field and is not your typical diva WR. Saints receiver Lance Moore could hit the open market as well and could thrive in the Cleveland offense.

Smart shopper: Presuming the Browns prioritize WR and Jason Babin is off the board, they must build the defensive front. The best value signings could be found by one-stop-shopping in Tampa Bay, where DLs Stylez White and Tim Crowder could be available.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Money is no object: The Steelers know what they have in Ike Taylor, but he may be swayed by a bigger payday elsewhere. Nnamdi Asomugha likely will be too expensive and will be wooed by many, but still worth a look. The best fit, given the window of opportunity for the Steelers to make another run, may be Richard Marshall. He won’t come cheap, but won’t get Nnamdi money.

Smart shopper: Robert Gallery and Chris Chester should be getting calls from the Steelers, who must finally address OL issues. Both could come at a good price, if Gallery can stay healthy and Chester, 28, produces more consistently.

[b]AFC SOUTH

Houston Texans[/b]

Money is no object: If the Houston Texans don’t fortify their secondary with a talented and proven veteran, nothing Wade Phillips does with the front seven will matter. Phillips should be camped out on Nnamdi Asomugha’s doorstep.

Smart shopper: The Texans’ return game was among the worst in the league. A third receiver/kick returner who can shorten the field for Matt Schaub could help win a lot of games. The smart shopper also will kick the tires on Ravens free agent CB Josh Wilson, who stepped in for Fabian Washington and recorded 37 tackles and three interceptions. Another value possibility: Buffalo free agent Drayton Florence.

Indianapolis Colts

Money is no object: The Colts have not been major players on the free agent front, but with Peyton Manning’s career winding down, now is the time. A bidding war with the Giants may be a no-win proposition, but the No. 1 target should be Giants free agent Ahmad Bradshaw. He could offer power and perhaps the best blocking back Manning has ever had.

Smart shopper: There’s sparkle in the bargain bin if the Colts want to take a chance. Reggie Bush may not have anything left on that bad knee. But if he does, no one could electrify Manning’s attack more, while bolstering a bad return game as well. And if Bush doesn’t look right, little-used Brandon Jackson could be a big bargain as a pass-catcher and blocker.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Money is no object: Paul Posluszny took a step back in the Buffalo 3-4 experiment in 2010, but was a force in the 4-3, which the Jaguars run. He will have many suitors and has said he’d like to stay in Buffalo, but the Jags defense was atrocious, especially in the red zone.

Smart shopper: Eric Weddle is going to be on a lot of teams’ free agent wish lists, so the Smart Shopper may look at safeties or converted safeties that slip through the cracks of restricted free agency. A Dashon Goldson or Gerald Sensabaugh would also fit.

Tennessee Titans

Money is no object: Given the length of the lockout, Kerry Collins’ retirement and that rookie Jake Locker’s head will be spinning, the need for a proven veteran quarterback is paramount. Donovan McNabb has to be the No. 1 target, then Matt Hasselbeck.

Smart shopper: Depending on new collective bargaining agreement, Matt Leinart could be a free agent after the lockout. The Titans would be crazy not to give him a shot. If they can’t re-sign Jason Babin, the Titans may be even better off if they go get Mathias Kiwanuka from the Giants. Also, rush end Antwan Barnes could be a steal. He made the most out of very few snaps in Baltimore.

[b]AFC WEST

Denver Broncos[/b]

Money is no object: DeAngelo Williams has Broncos written all over him. He has the game to complement what would be a conservative passing game, whether or not Tim Tebow is quarterback. If Williams cannot be signed, the next best choice would be to spend the money on Cedric Benson. The final item on the wish-list: A DT like Brandon Mebane. If Williams arrives at a costly price, a value DT like Stephen Bowen, who stepped in nicely for Marcus Spears and could come available, would be a good get.

Smart shopper: OT Langston Walker never has been a good fit for the Raiders, who like to throw the ball long and have had statues for quarterbacks. He’s a power blocker who’s not quick enough against rush ends. With a run-oriented scheme and mobile quarterback, he could thrive.

Kansas City Chiefs

Money is no object: If the Chiefs don’t go hard after offensive tackles Willie Colon or Doug Free, they’ll be doing Matt Cassel and their fans a severe injustice. They broke through in 2010, but the offensive line is aging and needs help. Atlanta’s Tyson Clabo is another who would fit in nicely.

Smart shopper: Jacoby Jones has been an enigmatic talent in Houston, showing flashes of big-time playmaking ability, but never putting together a consistent year. As a complement to Dwayne Bowe, he could fit in nicely. If San Diego’s Legedu Naanee hits the open market, he could be the better target. He missed some games with injury last year, but is still young and has value.

Oakland Raiders

Money is no object: The Nnamdi Asomugha era clearly is over in Oakland, but Ike Taylor could fit as an impact-type playmaker, which the Raiders desperately need. If he’s out of the price range, Ravens corner Chris Carr could come to Oakland just the way Al Davis likes 'em – with a chip on his shoulder.

Smart shopper: The league is down on Tampa Bay free agent Barrett Ruud after he had a horrible 2010 season and looked to be slowing down. But he’s only 28, probably played injured and is a sure tackler. Browns free agent Eric Barton likely won’t fetch a big price, but is a consistent tackler as well.

San Diego Chargers

Money is no object: If money truly is no object, the Chargers will sign their own, Malcolm Floyd. But if Floyd bolts, so to speak, Arizona’s Steve Breaston could be the perfect fit. He’s thrived as the No. 3 in the past and will come at a slightly cheaper price.

Smart shopper: DT Tony McDaniel figured out how to play more consistently and smarter in 2010, but was not an overwhelming force. He’ll get interest from a lot of teams, but won’t break the bank. Another definite option could be Stephen Bowen, who was productive in place of Marcus Spears in Dallas and may be pried away for starter’s money.

[b]AFC EAST

Buffalo Bills[/b]

Money is no object: If the Bills are going to break the bank anywhere, it must be on left tackle Doug Free or tackle Jared Gaither. The line is a mess and needs an anchor around which to build. If they want to spend big on the defensive side, it should be on end Ray Edwards, who would be a perfect fit.

Smart shopper: Thomas Howard could fit in the 3-4 and would be a front-line player at less than a king’s ransom. Perhaps an even better value as a fix for the defensive issues in Buffalo could be Vernon Gholston, who may also be a target of Cleveland’s.

Miami Dolphins

Money is no object: If you’re going to have a question mark at quarterback, you’d better not have one protecting up front. Marshall Yanda could be the best interior offensive lineman on the market. And if it’s not Yanda, it could be Atlanta’s Harvey Dahl. The Dolphins must take a run at one of them.

Smart shopper: If Matt Leinart becomes an unrestricted free agent, he’ll be a risk worth taking. After not panning out in Arizona, Leinart drew raves as Matt Schaub’s backup, working under Gary Kubiak. Carolina’s Matt Moore could be another under-the-radar QB.

New England Patriots

Money is no object: With Randy Moss gone and Deion Branch aging, the Pats must put Braylon Edwards and more likely Sidney Rice on their priority call list. Edwards’ baggage won’t bother the Pats and Rice is young and explosive.

Smart shopper: Tampa Bay’s Barrett Ruud is the prototype Patriots linebacker target. He’s coming off a bad season, but extremely talented, still young and a sure tackler that could be reborn in the Pats’ system.

New York Jets

Money is no object: Rest assured, Rex Ryan will go for it with guns a’blazin. Contacting cornerbacks Johnathan Joseph and Ike Taylor should be a priority, as will be putting another playmaking receiver on the field. Plaxico Burress with Rex Ryan? Yeah, sure.

Smart shopper: If Josh Wilson hits the market, he’s exactly the type of corner that could thrive and improve on a good 2010 season under Rex Ryan. On the receiver front, T.J. Houshmandzadeh could bring experience and consistency at a value price.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/john_lopez/07/19/nfc-free-agency-guide/index.html#ixzz1Sa8gSxIZ

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Good work CLD. Have you a fancy title and I’ll stick it up on the front page (and take any associated credit of course).

71

That’s from cnnsi! :smiley:

72

1a. The lockout is all but over. They are close to dotting some i’s and crossing some t’s.
Maybe even this week.
1b. Nobody is signed up for Hard Knocks, yet.
1c. No transfers have happened, so when green light happens it will be a trade and signing orgy.

  1. Go nuts.
73

COLLEGE PARK, Ga. – In less than two hours Thursday, euphoria over the 38-month labor dispute between NFL players and owners being over began turning sour.

At 7:02 p.m. ET at an airport hotel here, after the league’s owners voted 31-0 with one abstention (surprise – the Raiders balked), the full roster of owners gave a standing ovation to Commissioner Roger Goodell and the negotiating team that got the deal done. But then USA Today reported the players were rejecting the deal, the union denied it, and SI’s Jim Trotter reported union boss DeMaurice Smith emailed his executive board: “There is no agreement between the NFL and the players at this time.”

That’s the kind of day it was, a crazy one with more twists and turns than a Stieg Larsson novel. And it’s not over yet.

That was apparent with the sending of an email from the union’s veteran general counsel, Richard Berthelsen, to the board of player representatives late Thursday night. The tone in the email, obtained by SI.com and other media outlets, was harsh enough to suggest an agreement to end the labor war could be far away. He said the deal “would in my view violate federal labor laws … [prohibiting] employers from coercing their employees into forming a union. Those laws prohibit employers from coercing their employees into forming a union, and could result in any Agreement reached through the procedure being declared null and void.”

Berthesen went on to write the proposal gives the three days (next Wednesday through Friday) "to bargain any changes to the old CBA, with the new CBA becoming final on Saturday, July 30.

“If the NFL does not agree to the players’ proposed changes,” wrote Berthelsen, “the old CBA terms on benefits, discipline, safety, etc. will remain unchanged for another 10 years.”

What struck one owners’ source Thursday night as so incredible was the impression that was left in the owners’ room three hours earlier – that this was a deal the union would agree to, despite the fact that there would be hard feelings over issues lost on both sides. Goodell had spent the four months since players felt steamrolled during mediation in Washington to try to undo the bitterness players felt during those talks. And those efforts, seemingly, continued Thursday.

There were two long conversations between Smith and Goodell, an attempt to build a bridge that would result in a dual vote late in the day – first by the owners here, next by the board of player representatives from the union offices in Washington – resulting in a deal. The league, attempting to end a 132-day lockout of players and to stave off the first missed regular-season games in the league since 1987, then slam-dunked the ratification of a 10-year collective bargaining agreement with players.

“We have crafted a long-term agreement that is good for the game of football,” Goodell said 20 minutes after the vote was taken. “We are anxious to get back to football. It is time to get back to football. That is what everybody here wants to do.”

“It’s been long, it’s been at times very, very difficult,” the chair of the league’s labor committee, Carolina owner Jerry Richardson, said of the long negotiation period. “We are confident the players and the teams have arrived at a good place.”

Unlike the last deal, there would be no opt-outs in this deal. If approved by the players, there would be no labor interruptions, should the players ratify the agreement, until at least the summer of 2021.

Cries of “Hallelujah” could be heard throughout the land. Then just plain crying could be heard.

Soon after the vote, player sources began saying they felt the deal had been shoved down their throats by the owners. Though the ownership side said every point had been discussed at length with the players, Smith, in the email Trotter saw, said otherwise. He wrote of the owners: “They apparently approved a supplemental revenue sharing proposal. Obviously, we have not been a part of those discussions. As you know … issues that need to be collectively bargained remain open. Other issues such as workers compensation, economic issues and end of deal terms remain unresolved.”

It sounded very much like the good-feeling balloon was bursting Thursday night, and the players ended their conference call without voting on the owners’ proposal.

“I have no comment,” said Dallas owner Jerry Jones, one of the last owners to leave the hotel.

How could he? The entire agreement was in limbo.

Owners gave the decertified union until Wednesday to recertify, or else the deal would be pulled. Apparently, the players won’t need till Wednesday to decide. They didn’t vote to kill it Thursday night – FOX’s Jay Glazer reported that was so – but there obviously was significant opposition to it.

The rules the owners agreed to would have canceled the first preseason game of the years – the Hall of Fame Game between St. Louis and Chicago Aug. 7 – but kept the rest of the $800 million preseason intact. (That’s how much revenue is generated by the preseason, a management source said.) If the players were to ratify the agreement, team facilities would open Saturday, undrafted rookies could be signed beginning Sunday at 2 p.m. ET, and the official league year would begin Wednesday at 2 p.m. ET, with free-agency kicking off then.

In another win for the owners, NFL legal counsel Jeff Pash said there be would no judicial oversight of this collective bargaining agreement by the federal judiciary, as there was in the last CBA, when owners were angered by several decisions by a federal judge, David Doty. Now appeals would be made in the more traditional ways of sports leagues – through independent special masters.

But then the monkey wrench got thrown in. The players had to recertify as a union to officially end the stalemate because the NFL can’t institute important terms of the deal like a drug policy or disciplinary tenets without the players having a collective bargaining unit. That was part of the owners’ vote – that all unsigned players are free to sign with NFL teams, but with the proviso that if players do not approve the deal by Wednesday, the contracts wouldn’t be valid.

A weekend of mayhem appears certain. That’s the only certainty on the immediate horizon for the NFL.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/peter_king/07/21/labor-mayhem/index.html#ixzz1SprBprXi

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This time, it finally feels over. If this were a football game instead of a four-month-plus labor stand-off, it would be as if both the owners and players have gone into the victory formation, going through the motions and formalities as they drop to one knee in anticipation of a successful conclusion and maybe even a little celebration.

Though some issues remain to be settled, including whether or not the players will get the seven-year opt-out clause they have sought in a new CBA, the game-over stage is at hand. At long last. It is expected that the players’ executive board will vote to ratify a new labor deal with the league on Monday, putting the wheels in motion to start the new league year later this week and putting the NFL fully back into business.

The league’s 130-day (or so) lockout will end by midweek because cooler heads and common sense prevailed. Even though both seemed in short supply as recently as Thursday, when the owners emphatically ratified their half of the new 10-year collective bargaining agreement, and then watched as the players and their union largely recoiled at the notion that a new deal was in place. Feelings got hurt, and mistrust again ruled.

But that was then, and this is now. And when you stand back and really try to view the whole three-year labor drama in perspective, the inescapable realization is that Armageddon was avoided. No regular season games will be lost. Nearly the entire preseason schedule will be saved. And no long-term and lasting damage of true significance was done to the fans of the game, who clearly hated watching this most unusual of offseasons play itself out.

Yes, free agency had to be rescheduled and condensed, and teams will have to scramble in the next couple of eventful weeks to remake their rosters and prepare for a season that is almost upon them. But after so many predictions of doom, the worst didn’t happen, and 2011 will not take its place alongside 1982 and 1987 as strike-shortened seasons, in which the NFL suffered self-inflicted wounds.

The reality is the NFL’s offseason lasts roughly six months every year and largely ends as August arrives and the game returns to the field. This year? Plenty different in some key ways, but the bottom line will be that all teams will be back on the field and playing football about six months after the Green Bay Packers hoisted their first Super Bowl trophy in 14 years. Just as they would have been in an offseason that wasn’t dominated by labor strife.

If the players vote for ratification occurs Monday as expected, by Wednesday we may have players reporting back to their team complexes, and training camps could begin to open next weekend, which also could simultaneously mark the start of what promises to be the wildest free agency period in league history. A week from now, all could return to a relative sense of normal in the NFL, as July gives way to August and the nation’s attention starts to return to football.

It was an ugly and messy process to follow, but labor negotiations usually are. Especially when billions are at stake. In the end, however, these two sides didn’t choose the path of mutual destruction. They flirted with it, but finally realized that theirs is a lucrative and fortuitous marriage that cannot be ended. The players gave on some fronts. The owners gave on even more. And the end result is that the focus is about to return to the practice of football, rather than the business of football.

Credit belongs, just as blame would have, to both NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith. They wouldn’t let the setbacks suffered late Thursday afternoon and evening grow into a divide that killed the deal and would have sent both players and owners back to square one in this contentious labor negotiation. Goodell and Smith had difficult and very different jobs to do at times in this saga, but they’re both going to get their due for shepherding their constituencies through a situation that could have unraveled at several different points.

And because they did, the NFL is back, and it’s time for the game to again take center stage. The lockout deprived fans of year-round football, but it didn’t wreck a season and didn’t alienate a fan base to the point of no return. The worst-case scenario was thankfully averted.

Neither side got everything they wanted, but good negotiations are like that. Now that this CBA fight is almost over, and labor peace seems finally at hand, both the players and the owners have the right to claim success. They both won their share of points, but the biggest victory of all was the one they managed jointly: Not damaging the game or its fans. That was the singular outcome that neither side could do without.

75

just needs proper officialdom stamping, but the lockout is pretty much over. players have voted for it, so just needs to be signed off on. teams already back signing players.

good to see the honourable Bob Kraft the first to think of the fans.

http://eye-on-football.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/22475988/30849673

The 32 NFLPA reps voted unanimously to approve the CBA on Monday afternoon, according to NFLPA spokesman George Atallah.
That’s right. The NFL is back.

“It’s been a long time coming, and football is back – that’s the great news for everybody,” Roger Goodell said at a press conference in front of the NFLPA offices. “I want to thank [DeMaurice Smith] and all of the players for their leadership and securing the long-term future of the game. Having a 10-year agreement is extraordinarily great for our game and most importantly our fans.”

There are still a few steps before the deal is “officially” official, of course. This includes recertification as well as the approvement of the settlement. But for all intents and purposes were are ready to roll with the 2011 NFL season.

“This is a long time coming,” Jerry Richardson said. “I would like to say what a pleasure it’s been to work with the players in this negotiation.”

[color="#3b5998"]Patriots owner Bob Kraft offered perhaps the best perspective on the entire situation, however.

“On behalf of both sides, I’d like to apologize to the fans,” Kraft said, before complimenting the deal and the two sides for their work.

76

Free-agency may start…tomorrow!

77

Tweet of the Week II

"Can’t wait to knock somebody the hell out.’’
– Madbacker57, Jets linebacker Bart Scott, on Saturday just after noon, apparently eager to get to training and knock somebody the hell out.

Read more: http://sportsillustr…l#ixzz1T98crfGz

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NEW YORK (AP) – With the players ratifying an agreement Monday to end the NFL lockout, the league gets back to business this week. It’s a frantic schedule as everyone crams months of work into a few days.
The upcoming league schedule, according to the NFL:

Monday
• Free agent lists will be distributed to teams.

Tuesday
• Players can report to team facilities for physicals, meetings and to receive playbooks.
• Teams can start signing 2011 draft picks and rookie free agents. They also can begin making trades.
• Conversations between clubs and veteran free agents from all teams can start Tuesday, but no signings can occur until Friday. There will be no window for teams to negotiate exclusively with their own veteran free agents.

Wednesday
• Training camps open for 10 of the 32 teams: Arizona, Baltimore, Dallas, Denver, Jacksonville, New England, Oakland, Philadelphia, San Diego and Seattle.

Thursday
• Camps open for Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Kansas City, Miami, New Orleans, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, Tampa Bay and Washington.
• Teams can waive or cut players.

Friday
• Camps open for Buffalo, Carolina, Chicago, Cleveland, Green Bay, Indianapolis, Minnesota, New York Giants, St. Louis and Tennessee.
• Teams can begin signing free agents and renegotiated contracts. Signed players will be prohibited from physical activity until a CBA is ratified.
• Signed rookies may participate in camp and have health protection if injured.

Saturday
• Camps open for New York Jets and Houston.

August 4
• The league year begins if the CBA has been ratified by the NFLPA, which must first re-establish itself as a union.
• All clubs must be under the salary cap.

August 11
• First preseason game, with Seattle at San Diego.

Read more: http://sportsillustr…l#ixzz1TDHZpmAn

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The post-lockout activity will be fast and furious on numerous fronts, but here are the 10 NFL storylines that demand our attention in the whirlwind of signings and trades to come:
1. Whither Nnamdi?: Even while some teams might still be learning how to say his name, plenty of clubs will be angling to pay the 30-year-old former Raiders cornerback, who is the obvious grand prize in this year’s free agency class. Asomugha may not have a catchy Revis Island-like moniker, but the four-time All-Pro has the track record, with opponents seldom even trying to throw in his direction (according to ESPN he has allowed just 52 pass completions in the past three seasons).
The Texans and Lions seem to be the most motivated suitors, with glaring needs at cornerback and money to burn. But the Cowboys, Bucs, Eagles, Ravens or Redskins might be poised to overpay and instantly upgrade their defense with the kind of talent that rarely reaches the open market.
– And another thing: Bengals free agent cornerback Johnathan Joseph will probably command less than half the annual salary Asomugha gets, but he might wind up being the best value in the defensive back market. Look for Cincinnati to open up the checkbook and make every effort to re-sign him.
2. The Kolb Sweepstakes: Technically speaking, the Kolb-to-Arizona trade hasn’t been executed yet – it only seems like it has. We’ve been anticipating Kolb becoming a Cardinal for so long now that it might feel rather anticlimactic should it happen. Arizona is looking to ship cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a draft pick to the Eagles in exchange for the 26-year-old Kolb, and that’s likely to be more enticing than anything Seattle can dangle in front of Philly.
– And another thing: Kolb isn’t the only available arm who’s still young enough to build around. Don’t forget about Vince Young, he of the 26-14 record as a starter in the NFL. Somebody’s going to give him a second chance, and it could be Philadelphia, Miami or Buffalo.
3. Will Santonio the Jet be landing elsewhere?: I find it almost impossible to imagine Holmes getting away from New York, where he loves playing for chatty Jets head coach Rex Ryan and a team that has been knocking on the door of the Super Bowl for the past two seasons. Sure, Washington could make Holmes the kind of market-setting offer the Redskins are known for. But then he’d have to actually, you know, go play in Washington, where John Beck appears to be the starting quarterback in 2011. And before Holmes does that, I’d suggest he talk to Laveranues Coles about the relative merits of both franchises and how much happiness money can buy.
– And another thing: Minnesota free agent Sidney Rice is no consolation prize in the receiver market. Even though he’s not a burner, he’s a home-run deep threat who can help take the top off a defense. The Vikings should bust a gut to keep him, but if he moves on, I would expect Washington, St. Louis or New England to be the team that swoops in and strikes a deal.
4. The Hasselbeck question: It certainly sounds like the ship has sailed for Matt Hasselbeck and the Seahawks, and it’s hard to picture a better scenario for him than moving on to Tennessee and playing the role of the Titans’ bridge quarterback to the Jake Locker era. The two know and like each other from their days in Seattle, and Titans general manager Mike Reinfeldt has a comfortable history with Hasselbeck as well, dating from their Seahawks tenures. But what if either San Francisco or Arizona comes after Hasselbeck and he can’t resist the opportunity to seek twice-a-year revenge against Seattle, the team he believes he should still be leading? That could be fun.
– And another thing: Don’t sleep on the Kyle Orton trade market. The Broncos reportedly have signaled their willingness to quickly deal their ex-starter, and Miami is said to be very interested. Seattle and Arizona would be other possible suitors, depending on how the rest of the QB carousel turns.
5. Who wants Donovan?: In an indication of just how far his post-Philly star has fallen, Donovan McNabb might be the available veteran quarterback who has to wait the longest to find out where his next NFL venue will be. The Redskins will be determined to try to extract a fourth- or fifth-round pick in exchange for McNabb, but everybody knows they have to release him at some point, so it’ll be a hard bargain to drive. The Vikings continue to make solid sense as McNabb’s ultimate destination, because Minnesota needs a safety net option behind youngsters Christian Ponder and Joe Webb. Seattle and Miami will no doubt at least monitor McNabb’s situation.
– And another thing: Washington is going to unload disgruntled defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth as well, but again a trade market might be very difficult to develop with everyone knowing the Redskins must move on. Washington’s worst-case scenario is cutting Haynesworth and watching him instantly sign with the NFC East rival Eagles, where he would rejoin his former Titans defensive line coach, Jim Washburn. But that’s the most likely outcome to the Redskins’ Haynesworth debacle.
6. Big-name receivers for hire: If the Jeopardy category was big-name receivers with baggage for cheap, this year’s list would have to include Plaxico Burress, Randy Moss, Terrell Owens and maybe even Chad Ochocinco. Burress to the Eagles has been the buzz for weeks now, and Moss might find himself a home with the Jets if they lose Braylon Edwards in free agency. As for T.O. and Chad, who knows what’s next for the Dynamic Duo? The aging Owens is rebounding from offseason ACL surgery and Ochocinco is a wild card even in the best of times, with Cincinnati perhaps finally having grown tired of his act.
– And another thing: Veteran receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh is also a free agent after most recently playing in Baltimore. Maybe the Bengals bring him back and let Ochocinco walk.
7. Running backs galore: Carolina’s DeAngelo Williams and the Giants’ Ahmad Bradshaw are the two best talents on the market, but both sound like they’re going to give their current teams every possible shot to retain their services. Bradshaw could be pried out of New York if Miami decides to throw a bundle at him, but it’s the rest of the available rushers who are likely on the move. That list includes Joseph Addai, Ronnie Brown, Cedric Benson, Ricky Williams, Carnell Williams, Darren Sproles and Julius Jones.
– And another thing: Reggie Bush and the Saints aren’t certain to continue their marriage, especially if Bush doesn’t play some serious ball with New Orleans in reducing the $11.8 million base salary he’s owed this year. If Bush doesn’t return to the Saints, the Steelers, Eagles or Dolphins might be the most interested parties.
8. The Terrelle Pryor case: The former Ohio State quarterback wants to join the NFL in 2011 via the league’s supplemental draft. But it’s not that cut and dried, and the NFL reportedly won’t determine his eligibility for the supplemental draft until after the new CBA is finalized and put to bed in early August. The question surrounds whether Pryor’s circumstances changed in an unforeseen way after the NFL’s regular draft was conducted (which is what the supplemental draft is for), or if Pryor leaving Ohio State this spring was more a case of him bypassing the regular draft? It could result in Pryor not being eligible for the NFL until the 2012 regular draft, or even a legal challenge from him to force the league to allow him entry via the supplemental.
– And another thing: It’s not a completely related topic, but Tiki Barber’s NFL comeback might wind up getting nowhere this year, much like Pryor’s bid to turn pro. With such a condensed free-agent signing season, and so many running backs on the market, will anyone give the 36-year-old Barber much of a chance to make their roster?
9. Who’s the best buy on the defensive line?: There are no Julius Peppers-level players in this year’s market, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t quality options to pursue. Green Bay’s Cullen Jenkins is a versatile talent who fits in any formation, and he might be one of the top priorities for Washington as an experienced and productive 3-4 end. Carolina’s Charles Johnson (11.5 sacks last year) and Minnesota’s Ray Edwards (eight sacks in 2010) are pass rushers who will get paid and paid well in the earliest days of free agency.
– And another thing: The Giants have a potential problem on their hands with defensive end Osi Umenyiora, who is demanding either a new contract that pays him elite money, or a trade to a team willing to give him one. Neither scenario can be appetizing to New York, so there’s a lot on the line when Umenyiora sits down soon to chat with Giants general manager Jerry Reese. Don’t be surprised if Umenyiora is a holdout when camp opens.
10. Could Peyton Manning be a problem for the Colts?: The new deal that everyone knows has to happen between the Colts and Manning still hasn’t happened, and now the salary cap is at a lower-than-2009 level of $120-plus million. It could make things more difficult for Indianapolis to both give Manning the record-breaking contract he’s looking for and stock the rest of its 2011 roster as well as it would prefer. The uncertain rehab timetable of Manning’s offseason neck surgery only adds to the intrigue level in Colts-dom.
– And another thing: If Manning isn’t healthy and ready to go at the start of the 2011 season, or his contract situation becomes an issue, there’s always a certain veteran quarterback who might be itching to start another consecutive-games-starting streak, and in the process end Manning’s. Somebody make sure Bill Polian has Brett Favre’s phone number.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/don_banks/07/26/post-lockout-storylines/index.html#ixzz1TF0jUqVz

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Some notable names being cut…

Baltimore Ravens – Todd Heap, tight end; Willis McGahee, RB; Derrick Mason, WR.
Dallas Cowboys – Marion Barber, RB; Roy Williams, WR;
Denver Broncos – Correll Buckhalter, RB.
Green Bay Packers – Nick Barnett, linebacker.
New England Patriots – Tully Banta-Cain, linebacker.
New York Giants – Shaun O’Hara, center.