Some Stuff 02.22.06... [Archive]

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 12:05 PM

Here is where we ranked in 2005 as far as smartest teams in America...

Uh, Duh! Packers — Dumbest Team in the NFL
According to the Wonderlic Personnel Test, the dumbest team in the NFL happens to be the Green Bay Packers.

The Wonderlic is used by teams as part of their package of factors for drafting strategy.

The Minnesota Vikings players are tied with the Baltimore Ravens for 14th among the NFL's 32 teams with an average Wonderlic Personnel Test score of 21.5, according to a story in the Friday September 30, 2005 issue of the Wall Street Journal. The Wonderlic, a 12-minute standardized test with 50 questions, is given to college football players hoping to be taken in the NFL draft.

The Journal gathered test results from websites, published reports and individuals close to the NFL and then verified "as many as we could with agents and teams and calculated the average scores for each team."

The Journal reported Vikings quarterback Daunte Culpepper scored an average 21; center Matt Birk, a Harvard grad, had a 46.

The St. Louis Rams players finished atop the listings with a 24.6 average, followed by the Oakland Raiders (23.3), Tennessee Titans (23.2), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (23.2) and San Diego Chargers (23).

Last? The Green Bay Packers had a 19.1 average, with nine players scoring below 14.

Packer wideout Javon Walker had an extremely low score of an almost unheard of... 9. It almost makes you wonder if he knows how to read. Did he actually graduate from high school and college or did they just promote him so that they wouldn't have to deal with him anymore?

It is nice to see that the Packers are at the bottom of the league in terms of this Personnel Test. Perhaps this has some reason to do with their quick 0-4 start during the 2005 NFL season.

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 12:05 PM

Another one...I should have posted this one instead....

NFL's Dumbest Team

Wednesday, October 05 2005 @ 02:53 AM EDT
Contributed by: Admin "This must be the dumbest team in the NFL" I thought as my beloved packers dropped pass after pass, and gave up yard after yard. It turns out I was right.

Using the Wonderlic Personnel Test scores of current players the NFL ranked all 32 teams by average score, and the Packers (19.1) ranked last, just behind Arizona (19.2) and Kansas City (19.3). The so-called smartest teams were St. Louis (24.6), Oakland (23.3) and Tennessee and Tampa Bay (23.2).
The Wonderlic is a 50-question test administered to college prospects before the draft. Players are given 12 minutes to finish as many questions as they can.

The NFL average score is 20. Across the broader population, the average score is 21. The Packers' 19.1 average is similar to the typical Wonderlic score for hospital orderlies. And, it's on par with the team's namesake: According to E.F. Wonderlic Co., the lowest average score for any occupation is "packer," with 14.69.

Quarterbacks and specialists generally score highest, and that is the case with the Packers. Brett Favre scored a 22 coming out of Southern Mississippi in 1991, while backups Craig Nall with 31 and Aaron Rodgers with 35 had among the highest scores on the team.

Not that good Wonderlic scores necessarily lead to on-field success. When the Packers played in Super Bowl XXXII in January 1998, their average Wonderlic score was 19.6.

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 12:06 PM

Here is a sample test...different and longer than the one we saw last season...

Wonderlic IQ Sample Test
See how you score on some examples from a Wonderlic IQ test.
Answers appear at the bottom of the page.

The Wonderlic Personnel Test ™
WPT ™ Sample Questions

1. Look at the row of numbers below. What number should come next?

8 4 2 1 ½ ¼ ?

2. Assume the first two statements are true. Is the final one:

1. true, 2. false, 3. not certain?

The boy plays baseball. All baseball players wear hats. The boy wears a hat.

3. Paper sells for 21 cents per pad. What will four pads cost?

4. How many of the five pairs of items listed below are exact duplicates?

Nieman, K.M. Neiman, K.M.
Thomas, G.K. Thomas, C.K.
Hoff, J.P. Hoff, J.P.
Pino, L.R. Pina, L.R.
Warner, T.S. Wanner, T.S.

5. PRESENT/ RESERVE . Do these words

1. have similar meanings, 2. have contradictory meanings, 3. mean neither the same nor opposite?

6. One of the numbered figures in the following drawing is most different from the others. What is the number in that figure?

7. A train travels 20 feet in 1/5 second. At this same speed, how many feet will it travel in three seconds?

8. When rope is selling at $.10 a foot, how many feet can you buy for sixty cents?

9. The ninth month of the year is

1. October, 2. January, 3. June, 4. September, 5 May.

10. Which number in the following group of numbers represents the smallest amount?

7 .8 31 .33 2

11. In printing an article of 48,000 words, a printer decides to use two sizes of type. Using the larger type, a printed page contains 1,800 words. Using smaller type, a page contains 2,400 words. The article is allotted 21 full pages in a magazine. How many pages must be in smaller type?

12. The hours of daylight and darkness in SEPTEMBER are nearest equal to the hours of daylight and darkness in:

1. June, 2. March, 3. May, 4. November.

13. Three individuals form a partnership and agree to divide the profits equally. X invests $9,000, Y invests $7,000, Z invests $4,000. If the profits are $4,800, how much less does X receive than if the profits were divided in proportion to the amount invested?

14. Assume the first two statements are true. Is the final one:

1. true, 2. false, 3. not certain?

Tom greeted Beth. Beth greeted Dawn. Tom did not greet Dawn.

15. A boy is 17 years old and his sister is twice as old. When the boy is 23 years old, what will be the age of his sister?

These are sample test questions and are intended for demonstration purposes only. The Wonderlic Personnel Test is published by Wonderlic, Inc.

16. The hours of daylight and darkness in SEPTEMBER are nearest equal to the hours of daylight and darkness in:

June
March
May
November

Answers

1. 1/8
2. true
3. 84 cents
4. 1
5. 3
6. 4
7. 300 feet
8. 6 feet
9. September
10. .33
11. 17
12. March
13. $560
14. not certain
15. 40 years old
16. March

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 12:30 PM

Here is an article on Renaldo Hill...

On the Rise: Renaldo Hill

February 22, 2006

By Lauren Tweet

Renaldo Hill has been a very valuable acquisition for The Oakland Raiders. Selected in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, Hill was acquired as a free agent in 2005 by the Raiders. This 5'11", 190-pound defensive back not only brings experience and leadership, but versatility as well.

Born and raised in Detroit, Mich., Hill began playing organized football at eight years old. "My grandma got my older brother to start playing football," said Hill. "My younger brother and I just kind of followed in his footsteps." Once in high school, Hill's talents were soon recognized. Hill was nationally ranked as the sixth-best defensive back while at Chadsey High School. In his senior year, Hill chalked up 85 tackles, four interceptions, 15 pass deflections, two fumble recoveries, and he also caught 30 passes for 423 yards and seven touchdowns.

Transitioning from high school football to college football proved seamless for Hill. Hill attended Michigan State, the same college his older brother previously attended. While at Michigan State, Hill started in 35 consecutive games. Not only was he a two-time All-Big Ten Conference selection, but he also put up big statistics as well. He finished his college career with 182 total tackles, 11 stops for loss of 21 yards, nine interceptions, and 36 pass deflections. "Michigan State was a great place to prepare for the NFL," said Hill. "I had a great coach who was great with working with the defense." Michigan State was a place where Hill learned and studied the game, preparing him for his future in the NFL.

Hill's knowledge of the game has obviously paid off. With five years of professional experience, he has made some major contributions to both the Cardinals and the Raiders. Since 2001, he has played in 71 games, has 237 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, 31 pass deflections, and nine interceptions for 125 yards with one touchdown.

"From being a starter with the Cardinals, I believe I bring experience and knowledge to the Raiders defense," said Hill, "I also feel I am versatile player, whether I am playing cornerback or safety."

In his first season with the Raiders, Hill made an impact in the Raiders defense. In 16 games, he has totaled 75 tackles, one interception, and four pass deflections. He saw significant time at cornerback and safety due to injuries in the secondary.

"I'm one of the older defensive guys," stated Hill. "I want to become a leader on and off the field and share my knowledge of the game with the defense."

Not only does he want to be a vocal presence on and off the field, but also a physical presence as well. "I'm looking to step up my game next season and lead by example."

Rupert

02-22-2006, 12:53 PM

I really liked Hill's work ethic. He busted his ass out there.

02-22-2006, 03:00 PM

Hill is one of those glue guys...he's not a stud or anything, just plays ball.

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 04:58 PM

Here is a draft profile of Derrick Burgess...

DERRICK BURGESS, MISSISSIPPI

Rank: 14th

Measurables: 6-3, 264, 4.85 40 time, 40-inch vertical, 24 reps on bench

Book on him: Played DT in college until his senior season when he moved to Left End which is where he will project in the NFL. Hails from Riverdale, Maryland. Had 6 starts in 1998 at DT and started all of 1999 season. Had knee surgery in January, 1999. Started 38 games in career, getting 164 tackles, 43 tackles for loss, and 17.5 sacks. Picked off 2 passes as a senior. Likes to go wide on his pass rush but has alot of experience on the inside so he should be able to adjust to mix things up. Pretty new to DE so he will likely be a year or two long project. Scouts feel he needs alot of development in his pass rush skills. At this time he is considered an effort guy without alot of pass-rushing skills. Still Burgess has good quickness and has shown the ability to handle stronger linemen so he could be a factor at Left end in the NFL. Scored a 13 on the Wonderlic.

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 05:45 PM

Here is a highlight video of our Raiders...past and present...with Metallica playing in the background....

Us... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4t3f-gzL5w&search=oakland%20football)

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 06:33 PM

Collins to be honored. It isn't until next month so you have time for flight and hotel reservations...

2.22.2006

Kerry Collins To Be Honored By The Second Mile on March 24
Event at Hershey Lodge

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa., February 22, 2006 - Former Penn State All-American Kerry Collins will be honored by The Second Mile at the annual KPMG Second Mile Celebration of Excellence. The event will be held on Friday, March 24 at 6:00 p.m. at the Hershey Lodge & Convention Center.

Proceeds from the event will directly benefit children served by The Second Mile who are dealing with challenging circumstances. Expected special guests include The Second Mile's founder, Jerry Sandusky, and former Nittany Lion quarterback Michael Robinson, the 2005 Big Ten Silver Football recipient.

The Second Mile is dedicated to helping children in local communities develop skills which will lead them to a future of promise and personal success. In 2005, The Second Mile served more than 100,000 children in the nine-county South-central Region. According to event Co-Chairs, Kim Ortenzio-Nielsen and Michael Fiaschetti, the goal of the KPMG Second Mile Celebration of Excellence is to raise more than $70,000 to benefit The Second Mile.

Collins, a veteran NFL quarterback who led the New York Giants to Super Bowl XXXV, plays for the Oakland Raiders. Prior to arriving in Oakland, he led the Giants and Carolina Panthers to the NFC Championship Game.

At Penn State from 1991-94, Collins led the Nittany Lions to a 10-2 record and a Florida Citrus Bowl win over Tennessee in 1993. During his senior season, Collins directed one of the top offense's in college football history, a unit that averaged a school record 47.8 points per game, en route to an unbeaten season and Penn State's first Big Ten Championship. The Nittany Lions won the 1995 Rose Bowl to become the first team in Big Ten history to earn a 12-0 record,

A product of Wilson High School in West Lawn, Pa., Collins was a consensus first team All-American in 1994 and won the Davey O'Brian and Maxwell Awards. He was the fifth overall selection in the 1995 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers.

Through his KC for Kids Foundation, Collins has demonstrated his commitment to children and families with needs in communities in which he has lived.

Founded in 1977 by Jerry Sandusky, former Penn State defensive coordinator, The Second Mile provides nine prevention, early intervention and community-based programs at no cost to more than 300,000 children in Pennsylvania annually. Funding for The Second Mile is made possible through the generosity of individuals, businesses, community organizations and foundations.

For ticket information for the KPMG Celebration of Excellence, contact The Second Mile at 717-763-4614 or email southcentral@thesecondmile.org.

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 06:59 PM

Here is the schedule for the Combine beginning today...

February 22, 2006

Day 1 – Arrival Day

Upon arrival at the Indianapolis airport you will greeted in the baggage claim area by an NFL scout and transported to the Crowne Plaza hotel.

After you check into your room and change into your issued gear, you will be shuttled to the hospital for Pre-Exam X-rays and lab work. X-rays MUST be completed first thing on arrival.

After X-rays are completed, you will be brought back to the hotel and directed to the Cybex testing area.

Pre-Exam X-rays and Cybex testing MUST be completed on your arrival day so that you will be ready for medical testing activities on Day 2. No matter how late in the day you arrive in Indianapolis, you must complete these two requirements on your arrival day.

Orientation and Dinner at 6:00 pm.

During orientation you will be assigned to a group and be introduced to the group scouts assigned to coordinate your groups’ activities.

Individual Team Interviews may be scheduled for you during the evening following orientation and position coach interviews will be conducted until 11:00 pm.

Day 2 – Medical Exam Day

Let your group scout know if you have brought any pertinent X-rays from home.

Your group scouts will usher you thru the following activities:

Urinalysis

Height/Weight/Arm Length/Hand Span

Wonderlic Test – Player Information Questionnaire (if not already completed)

Bench press Test (max reps at 225lbs) (PK/PT/KO/QB/WO Exempted)

Physical Examination

Medical Exams

Vision Test

EKG & Possible Stress Test

Orthopedic Stations

Blood Test

Medical History

Taped Video Interviews

Dinner at 6:00 pm.

Individual Team Interviews may be scheduled for you during the evening following orientation and position coach interviews will be conducted until 11:00 pm.

Day 3 – Psychological Testing Day

NFLPA Meeting

Psychological Testing

Dinner at 5:00 p.m.

Individual Team Interviews may be scheduled for you during the evening following orientation and position coach interviews will be conducted until 11:00 pm.

Day 4- Workout Day

Your group scouts will usher you thru the following activities:

Still Photograph

Warm Up & Flexibility

10-20-40 Yard

Position Skill Drills

Deep Snap (if applicable)

Alternate Skill Drills (if applicable)

Vertical Jump / Broad Jump

20 Yard shuttle / 60 Yard shuttle (OL/PK/PT/KO/DL/QB Exempted)

3 Cone Drill

Departure

You will be transported to the airport for your flight home.

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 07:07 PM

Here are all the specifics on the Combine and the schedule...

Combine... (http://www.nflcombine.net/nicsched.aspx)

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 07:17 PM

Choose your head coach....

Here... (http://selectsmart.com/FREE/select.php?client=justinsite)

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 08:41 PM

Here are all of Derrick Burgess' sacks on one video...

Derrick.... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qz6bxO_3-Sc&search=raider%20football%20badass%20hit)

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 09:01 PM

I thought this was interesting...

National Football Scouting, a firm out of Tulsa, Okla., runs the combine. Rules allow teams - which spend $70,000 apiece to participate in the combine - 60 player interviews.

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 09:05 PM

Here is a diagram of the athlete at the Combine....

Here... (http://news.enquirer.com/assets/AB19743219.PDF)

Angry Pope

02-22-2006, 11:02 PM

Gibson is already gone....

Steve Corkran, of the Contra Costa Times, reports the Oakland Raiders exercised a clause in SS Derrick Gibson's contract that voids the remainder of Gibson's contract and makes him an unrestricted free agent. Gibson was scheduled to make $10 million this season; a figure the Raiders had no intention of honoring. Therefore, Gibson's only realistic shot of sticking with the Raiders for a sixth season was if he agreed to a restructured contract.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 01:25 AM

More confirmation on Gibson, and also that the coin flip will occur sometime during the Combine...

Commitment to Woodson is cut short by the Raiders

By Steve CorkranCONTRA COSTA TIMES

Raiders managing general partner Al Davis has a long history of stockpiling Heisman Trophy winners. On Wednesday, he severed ties with one when he opted against using the franchise tag on cornerback Charles Woodson.
The Raiders used the franchise tag on Woodson each of the past two seasons. Doing so this year would have put the Raiders on the hook to pay Woodson $12.644 million for the 2006 season.

The deadline is today. Teams are permitted to designate one franchise player in any given year. That amounts to a guaranteed one-year tender for the average of the top five salaries at the designated player's position.

The Raiders used the franchise tag on Woodson in 2004 and forked over $8.78 million as compensation. A mandated 20 percent raise from the previous season's figure bumped that figure to $10.537 million for last season.

The Raiders got little in return. Woodson, 29, appeared in only 19 games and intercepted two passes the past two seasons. He missed three games in '04 with a knee injury and the final 10 games last season because of a broken right fibula.

Woodson also became expendable with the emergence of Nnamdi Asomugha, Fabian Washington and Stanford Routt as reliable options at cornerback. Asomugha and Washington finished as the starters last season and are the projected ones entering next season.

Woodson has sought a long-term contract from the Raiders for the past several seasons. However, the team was reluctant to lavish upon Woodson a huge contract because of his penchant for injuries and inconsistent play.
Just the same, there remains a possibility that Woodson will be back with the Raiders before long. He hits the market as an unrestricted free agent March 3 and is free to negotiate with any of the league's 32 teams.

Woodson has said that he wants to be the highest-paid cornerback in the league. That appears a long shot given his injuries and drop-off in performance since starting his NFL career with four straight Pro Bowl appearances -- he has had none the past four years -- after the Raiders made him the fourth pick of the 1998 NFL draft.

In other news, the Raiders exercised a clause in veteran strong safety Derrick Gibson's contract that voids the remainder of Gibson's contract and makes him an unrestricted free agent.

Gibson, 26, was scheduled to make $10 million this season, a figure the Raiders had no intention of honoring. Therefore, Gibson's only realistic shot of sticking with the Raiders for a sixth season was if he agreed to a restructured contract.

The Raiders selected Gibson in the first round of the NFL draft in 2001 in hopes Gibson would develop into a difference-maker. Injuries and inconsistent play conspired against that happening.

Finally, the Raiders soon will learn whether they get the rights to the sixth or seventh pick in the NFL draft. A coin flip will occur at the NFL scouting combine, at some point, in Indianapolis to determine whether the Raiders or 49ers get the sixth spot.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 01:53 AM

Here is some news on Culpepper....

According to a league source, Culpepper is a month ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation. The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback has dropped his weight from 275 to 245 pounds.

The Star Tribune reports Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress praised QB Daunte Culpepper (knee) Wednesday, Feb. 22, for his dogged approach to rehabilitating his right knee. He did so while acknowledging the rough start of their relationship. The Vikings dispatched new athletic trainer Eric Sugarman to Florida this week to update Culpepper's progress. Sugarman reported that Culpepper is on schedule, and Childress said it is not out of the question that Culpepper could participate in some non-football drills during spring minicamp. In his first comments since Culpepper was put on the trading block, Childress said he considers him part of the team until he is told otherwise.

Sean Jensen, of the Pioneer Press, reports some Minnesota Vikings players are opposed to the idea of trading QB Daunte Culpepper. OT Bryant McKinnie said, "That's crazy. I don't agree with trading him. Last year, they traded Randy Moss. We already made one mistake (trading Moss). Don't do it twice. If that's the case, let me go." CB Antoine Winfield said Culpepper was the reason he turned down an offer from the New York Jets two years ago to sign with the Vikings. TE Jermaine Wiggins said that he and other players are frustrated by the trade speculation surrounding Culpepper.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 09:23 AM

We added two coaches...

Shell adds two coaches
Former Raiders assistant Walsh, ex-Rams' star Slater added to offensive staff

The Oakland Raiders have reached agreement with Tom Walsh and Jackie Slater to join their offensive staff under coach Art Shell, with both assistants expected to be on hand to scout players at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

Walsh coached on the Raiders staff from 1982-94, working with quarterbacks, receivers and serving as offensive coordinator. He will serve as the offensive coordinator under Shell, and is expected to work closely with quarterbacks coach John Shoop in developing the Raiders offense.

Other than a brief stint coaching minor league football in 1999, Walsh hasn't coached full time since resigning under pressure as head coach at Idaho State after two seasons and a 6-16 record.

Most recently, Walsh ran a bed and breakfast ranch in Swan Valley, Idaho, where he served as mayor.

Slater, who interviewed with the Raiders Monday in Alameda, will work with Irv Eatman with the Oakland offensive line, with the two replacing the departed Jim Colletto.

Slater was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001 after playing 20 seasons with the Los Angeles and St. Louis Rams.

The newest member of the defensive staff is Daryl Sims, who served as head coach of the Cologne Centurions of NFL Europe. Sims will serve as a defensive line assistant coach under defensive line coach Keith Millard.

The Raiders are still in the market for a special teams coach to replace Joe Avezzano, whose contract was not renewed.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 10:09 AM

Here is an interview Randy Moss had regarding Culpepper yesterday....

Moss: Culpepper to Raiders?

Thursday, February 23, 2006
Ben Maller Exclusive!!

Raiders star Randy Moss has heard rumors that former Vikings teammate Daunte Culpeper could be joining him in Oakland, according to FOX SPORTS RADIO.

Moss, appearing on the Drive with Chris Myers and Ben Maller, was asked by Myers if he wanted Kerry Collins to be the Raiders quarterback again next season. "I don't really care. I mean, I'm cool with Kerry. I said it back when I first came. I'm cool with Kerry Collins. I don't have a problem with it but there is - they're talking about Daunte Culpepper comin' to the Oakland Raiders. I have a relationship with Daunte on and off the field, so you know, I really don't care who's my quarterback. I just want somebody to come in there and take us to the Superbowl."

Maller asked Moss if he felt that Daunte was being run out of Minnesota."Man, I can't really say. I haven't really discussed or talked to Daunte about the situation of him leaving Minnesota. All I know is he wants to play football. I think he's a little disappointed with how things are going you know, as far as from a professional and an organization standpoint, but this is a job, it's a business and you really can't let anyone or anything like that get you down. If traded, like myself, you know, I just had to move on and try to make it work, so, that's the advice I would give to Daunte, and you know, if he becomes a Raider then you know, the show is back on."

Randy was asked if new coach Art Shell can make a difference in Oakland. "I'm not even sure. I mean, hopefully! I'm a fan of Art Shell and I paid a little bit of attention to him back when he coached back in the day, but I'm really not that familiar with him as a coach."

Moss appeared on the show to promote his new clothing line that is available online at grabman18.com. "I had a good name going and you know, my taste in fashion, and I just thought that it was just something that I could bring out to the people - just give 'em a little finesse of myself - just tryin' to find a way to give back, man. I think, you know, I got a few things going with this clothing line. I just signed a deal with a Smoothie franchise, so everything is going good man, so I'm doing good in the world right now."

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 10:34 AM

Supposedly, we are also interested in this coach...

Lorenzo Ward's reputation as an outstanding coach and recruiter continues to grow as he begins his seventh season on Frank Beamer's football staff at Virginia Tech. Ward oversees Tech's cornerbacks and free safeties.
During his time with the Hokies, Ward has coached five all-BIG EAST players and one all-ACC selection, produced a secondary that helped Tech finish among the national defensive leaders five of the last six seasons and spearheaded the recruiting of the nation's top high school football player.

His work with the secondary in 1999 contributed to the Hokies finishing No. 3 in total defense and No. 7 in pass efficiency defense. In 2000, Tech tied for third nationally in interceptions and during the 2001 season, the Hokies ranked second in total defense, third in pass efficiency defense, eighth in pass defense and tied for seventh in interceptions. In 2002, Tech led the Division I-A ranks in interceptions with 24. Last season, the Hokies finished fourth nationally in pass defense, tied for fourth in interceptions and ranked seventh in pass efficiency defense.

Ward was instrumental in Tech's signing of Pennsylvania running back Kevin Jones in February 2000. Jones, the most highly touted player ever to sign with the Hokies, was rated the top high school football player in the country. Jones was named the BIG EAST Conference Rookie of the Year in 2000 and as a junior broke three Tech rushing records on the way to becoming a consensus All-American and a first-round pick in the NFL Draft.

Five of Ward's cornerbacks at Tech - Anthony Midget, Ike Charlton, Ronyell Whitaker DeAngelo Hall and Jimmy Williams - earned all-conference honors, as did free safety Willie Pile. Midget was a first-team All-BIG EAST pick and Charlton a second-team selection in 1999, while Whitaker was second team in 2000 and first team in 2001. Hall and Pile were second-team picks in 2002. Hall became a first-team All-BIG EAST selection and a second-team A-A pick in 2003 and was the eighth overall player taken in the NFL Draft. Hall and Pile were semi-finalists for the Jim Thorpe Award in 2002 and 2003, respectively. Williams was a first-team All-ACC pick last season.

Prior to joining the Tech coaching staff, Ward was a coach at UT-Chattanooga and Alabama. He was named the defensive coordinator at UT-Chattanooga in 1998 after serving as the Mocs' running backs coach in 1997. Prior to working with the running backs, Ward was the defensive backs coach.

An Alabama native, Ward starred for the Crimson Tide from 1986-90. He helped lead Alabama to a 33-15 record and a Southeastern Conference Championship during his career. He was also tabbed Special Teams Player of the Year by The Sporting News in 1990 as the Tide's unit ranked No. 1 in the nation. Ward played on four bowl teams, helping lead 'Bama to two Sun Bowl wins.

Ward served two seasons as a graduate assistant at Alabama before spending one season as an assistant coach at Newnan High in Newnan, Ga. He joined the UTC staff as the secondary coach in 1994.

Nicknamed "Whammy" because of his fierce tackles, Ward graduated from Alabama in 1990 with a bachelor's in physical education. He is married to the former Tara Tubbs. The couple has one son, Lorenzo Donovan Ward, Jr., who is 9.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 10:45 AM

It appears that the Chiefs are interested in offering only an incentive laden deal for Owens...take it for what it is worth...

T.O. TALK: It has been more than a week since the last false Terrell Owens sighting, so it’s time to give the latest update on the Kansas City front.

On Tuesday, Peterson reiterated that the Chiefs won’t have an interest until after Owens is presumably cut in early March. He also said it might be a long shot that Owens and his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, would be willing to agree to a one-year, incentive-laden deal, which is what the Chiefs would be willing to give.

When asked whether Kansas City had closed the door on any possible Owens dealings, Peterson said, “You never say never in this league.”

Chiefs quarterback Trent Green said Rosenhaus was at the Pro Bowl earlier this month “working everybody” to promote his client. Green, considered one of the team leaders, said he’s willing to keep an open mind.
“I don’t know if it will happen or not,” Green said.

“What’s the relationship going to be with T.O. and Herman Edwards? Or what is T.O.’s relationship with the rest of the locker room? How will that fit? I don’t know. Until I meet him and talk to him and see what he’s all about, I don’t know him. I can make speculations based off the sound bites you see on TV, but I generally don’t do that.”

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 01:51 PM

Hello from Al....

Hello... (http://www.geocities.com/raiderratgrafx/al.jpg)

CrossBones

02-23-2006, 01:56 PM

Hello from Al....

Hello... (http://www.geocities.com/raiderratgrafx/al.jpg)Hi big guy!

Go get Super Mario for us! :D

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 02:18 PM

First time I saw Al flipping the bird.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 03:35 PM

Here is some information about the free agent running backs...

Goal Line Stand: Running Backs on the Move
By Gregg Rosenthal

February 23, 2006

Our free agency preview showed a glut of talent on the running back market this offseason. There are enticing options for any type of shopper. For the team looking for star power, there are former MVP candidates like Edgerrin James, Shaun Alexander, and Jamal Lewis. For cost-effective teams looking for rising talents, we present Chester Taylor, Najeh Davenport, and DeShaun Foster. Even the aging cap casualties could be interesting. Fred Taylor, Marshall Faulk, and Travis Henry could be available if they are released.

On Tuesday, we forecasted movement at the quarterback position as free agency approaches. We planned to do a similar breakdown of the teams with the greatest need at the running back position. Halfway through this very column, we realized that almost every team has some need at running back. Since fantasy football is all about the ball-carrier, it only seems fair to use two columns to break down the current situation of all 32 teams, with predictions in tow. Today, we’ll tackle the AFC.

There are at least four teams in the AFC that should be looking for starter-quality talent. One thing to keep in mind once free agency starts is that four running backs are expected to be taken in the first round of the NFL Draft. We suspect that the majority of them will be starters as rookies. If a team like the Ravens doesn’t invest heavily in free agency, they will look to April.

Teams who need a Starter

1. Indianapolis Colts – Edgerrin James is gone and Dominic Rhodes could be cut because of a large roster bonus. They need to overhaul the whole position and will probably do so by signing a mid-level free agent and drafting a rookie, possibly in the first round. Whoever the Colts tag to be their next starter is immediately going to become a top-shelf fantasy player. Picking at No. 30, the team can’t count on Minnesota’s Laurence Maroney or Memphis’ DeAngelo Williams being there. Wisconsin’s Brian Calhoun’s speed would look good on turf.

We think the Colts will hedge their bets by signing a solid option in free agency. The name that makes the most sense to us is still on another roster: Fred Taylor. Taylor is made for turf and would come at a discount price. He still has enough speed and elusiveness when healthy. Chester Taylor’s speed would also fit on the Colts and the team could bring Marshall Faulk back to play on third downs.

Prediction: Sign Fred Taylor, release Dominic Rhodes, draft Brian Calhoun

2. Baltimore Ravens – It’s no surprise the Ravens didn’t use the franchise tag on Jamal Lewis. Why pay so much to keep a disgruntled star on the downside of his career? What is surprising is their disinterest thus far in approaching Chester Taylor about a contract. Taylor figures to have many suitors, so Baltimore must feel they can afford to lose him. We suspect the Ravens will use the No. 13 pick on their next starter and pick up a veteran backup in free agency. They are one team who could make a push for Edgerrin James if they wanted. If they look towards the draft, DeAngelo Williams and LenDale White figure to be their targets.

Prediction: Draft DeAngelo Williams, sign Jonathan Wells as backup

3. Jacksonville Jaguars – The Jaguars have depth, but not a true every-down back. Jack Del Rio is reportedly tired of Fred Taylor’s injury problems and could release him. Greg Jones is an excellent short-yardage option, but lacks explosion. Alvin Pearman is a fine passing down option. But it doesn’t add up to enough.

The Jaguars offense still lacks punch and the team could look to make a major splash this offseason. We think they are as likely as any team to go after Edgerrin James or Shaun Alexander. James’ tough running fits their profile better and they would love to steal their divisional rival’s thunder. He could also ignite an apathetic fanbase. Jamal Lewis and Najeh Davenport are logical fallback options who would fit Jacksonville’s physical style. But James is a true every-down option who can also protect Byron Leftwich and help the passing game. They are a team who believes they are a “player away” and Edge qualifies.

Prediction: Release Fred Taylor, Sign Edgerrin James

4. New York Jets – The Jets have three pieces in place for their backfield next season, but none are starter-material. Curtis Martin took a paycut to stay, but the team probably wants to use him in a supporting role. Cedric Houston played well in limited chances as a rookie and is a good body to have around. Derrick Blaylock is a specialist who may not be wanted by the new regime. The Jets have so many needs at other positions that they probably will make due with what they have at running back for one season. They could sniff around players like Najeh Davenport, but we bet they stand pat in the end. Look for a mid-round draft pick.

Prediction: Take developmental prospect in draft

5. Tennessee Titans – Chris Brown was a disappointment despite staying healthy in 2005, but he’ll be back because his salary is small. Travis Henry will be required to take a paycut to return next season. The Titans say they want him back, but they could possibly do better. Henry proved injury-prone and ineffective in his one season with the team. Coach Jeff Fisher would love a bruiser like Eddie George, but they will take a quarterback with the No. 3 pick in the Draft. That leaves them with the option of keeping Henry or fishing through free agency. Najeh Davenport is a powerful option who could pair with Brown like Henry was supposed to.

Prediction: Release Travis Henry, Sign Najeh Davenport

cont'd...

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 03:36 PM

cont'd...

Teams Who Need Depth

6. Cleveland Browns – The Browns are looking for someone to take the load off Reuben Droughns. They want some who can offer explosiveness and more ability on passing downs. The fact that they aren’t considering Lee Suggs for this role is damning to Suggs’ future. William Green also faces an uncertain future.

Cleveland’s top target should be Chester Taylor. GM Phil Savage knows him well from his days in Baltimore and actually signed Taylor to a one-year contract as a restricted free agent last offseason before the Ravens matched the offer. Nothing has changed in the last year. Cleveland should still be very interested. They may have to outbid teams like the Panthers or Colts for Taylor. If they can’t sign their man, they can look to a draft filled with third-down types.

Prediction: Sign Chester Taylor, release William Green

7. Denver Broncos – The Broncos have taken a running back in the draft every season since 1999, almost always in the first four rounds. With no true primary back, look for them to select one on the first day. The team also wants to re-sign Ron Dayne, promising a chance to play more. We believe them and doubt Dayne will get a better offer elsewhere.

Prediction: Re-sign Ron Dayne, draft Gerald Riggs Jr.

8. Pittsburgh Steelers – All indications are that the Steelers want to enter 2006 with Willie Parker and Duce Staley as their top two running backs. We’re surprised they want to keep Staley around at a big salary. Still, this is a team that loves to stockpile running backs and will poke around the edges of the free agent market. They could use a third-down back with Verron Haynes headed for free agency. They could sign a versatile player like Lamar Gordon and still draft a running back late.

Prediction: Retain Duce Staley, sign Lamar Gordon, draft a mid-round running back

9. New England Patriots – Some Mock Drafts have the Patriots taking a running back in the first round. We don’t see it. Corey Dillon is a costly starter and paying a big signing bonus for a backup doesn’t make sense. Kevin Faulk remains, but this team needs some youth. LSU’s Joseph Addai would make sense, but will probably get drafted too early. Detroit’s Shawn Bryson is a versatile player that fits the Patriots mold, but isn’t a big enough improvement over Patrick Pass. Look for the Patriots to draft a mid-round running back, nothing more.

Prediction: Retain Corey Dillon, Kevin Faulk, Patrick Pass, draft a mid-round running back

10. Oakland Raiders – Art Shell has his bell cow in LaMont Jordan, but very little depth. This team needs a quality backup or two. Since Zack Crocket remains, a third-down back makes a lot of sense. Maurice Morris and Verron Haynes are two players available who would fit.

Prediction: Sign Verron Haynes, release Justin Fargas

11. Buffalo Bills – Quick, name Willis McGahee’s backup last season? Exactly. The team could use a reliable veteran option behind McGahee. Anthony Thomas will be available and is very familiar with Dick Jauron. He would make sense and cost very little.

Prediction: Sign Anthony Thomas

12. Miami Dolphins – Assuming Ricky Williams doesn’t win his appeal, the Dolphins suddenly need a backup running back. Nick Saban’s old player Joseph Addai will probably cost too much in the draft. They could poke around veterans like Michael Bennett or Ahman Green, but the Dolphins have bigger fish to fry. Ronnie Brown is an every-down option, so they can go cheap at the backup spot.

Prediction: Whatever they do, it will be cheap

13. Houston Texans – Reggie Bush is too good to pass up, but the Texans don’t really have a need at running back. They have a young quality starter (Domanick Davis) and a young quality backup (Vernand Morency). They even have jack-of-all-trades Jonathan Wells available to re-sign if they so desired. The Texans will either trade the No. 1 pick or draft Bush, but they won’t be active in the free agent market.

Prediction: Draft Reggie Bush

14. Kansas City Chiefs – If Priest Holmes retires, as expected, the Chiefs need a backup. 2005 practice squader Samkon Gado would look good behind Larry Johnson, but he’s gone now. The Chiefs won’t need to break the bank, so they could look at re-tread options like Anthony Thomas or Antowain Smith. Derrick Blaylock could return if he’s cut by the Jets. A late-round draft pick is also a possibility.

Prediction: Draft a late round pick

Teams with No Need

15. Cincinnati Bengals – Rudi Johnson and Chris Perry are a terrific one-two punch and Brandon Bennett is a quality fullback. Whoever the Bengals sign as their third running back, it will be for the minimum.

16. San Diego Chargers – LaDainian Tomlinson, Michael Turner, Darren Sproles, Lorenzo Neal. We know Marty Schottenheimer loves drafting running backs, but he’s got all his bases covered.

02-23-2006, 03:44 PM

10. Oakland Raiders – Art Shell has his bell cow in LaMont Jordan, but very little depth. This team needs a quality backup or two. Since Zack Crocket remains, a third-down back makes a lot of sense. Maurice Morris and Verron Haynes are two players available who would fit.

Prediction: Sign Verron Haynes, release Justin Fargas

This is a great idea, just depends on the price tag...some of my draft options I suggested maybe cheaper, but Haynes is a great 3rd down back.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 03:54 PM

Here is a list of possible salary cap cuts and the savings to their respective team....

List of possible salary cap cuts

By John Clayton
ESPN.com

The following is a list of players who might be cut (or retire) this offseason and the salary cap savings their teams would realize. The players in bold have already been cut.

Arizona Cardinals

Player Cap number 2006 savings

DE Calvin Pace $1,955, 000 $425,000 (charge)

Atlanta Falcons
Player Cap number 2006 savings

CB Kevin Mathis $887,500 $325,000
DE Brady Smith $3,125,000 $2,500,000

Baltimore Ravens
Player Cap number 2006 savings

LB Peter Boulware $2,360,000 $1,320,000
OL Orlando Brown $3,800,000 $900,000
OL Keydrick Vincent $1,666,666 $833,332

Buffalo Bills
Player Cap number 2005 savings

DT Sam Adams $3,875,000 $3,500,000
OL Bennie Anderson $1,900,000 $900,000
S Lawyer Milloy $3,750,000 $2,500,000
WR Eric Moulds $10,855,666 $5,522,332
CB Troy Vincent $3,225,000 $825,000
OL Mike Williams $10,813,764 $5,683,530

Carolina Panthers
Player Cap number 2005 savings

RB Stephen Davis $3,800,000 $2,800,000
K John Kasay $1,700,000 $500,000
LB Jason Kyle $850,000 $610,000
LB Brandon Short $2,050,000 $1,550,000

Chicago Bears
Player Cap number 2005 savings

TE Desmond Clark $1,666,666 $1,166,664
S Mike Green $1,435,000 $1,435,000

Cincinnati Bengals
Player Cap number 2005 savings

DE Duane Clemons $1,616,666 $1,349,998
S Kim Herring $1,600,000 $700,000
TE Reggie Kelly $1,950,000 $1,450,000
DT John Thornton $3,875,000 $2,000,000

Cleveland Browns
Player Cap number 2005 savings

RB William Green $1,517,619 $121,666
DT Kenard Lang $5,954,364 $5,133,333
DB Michael Lehan
OL Ryan Tucker $4,025,000 $774,996

Dallas Cowboys
Player Cap number 2005 savings

OL Larry Allen $7,558,333 $3,441,663
DT La'Roi Glover $7,200,000 $6,000,000
LB Dat Nguyen (ret.) $2,458,333 $1,791,665

Denver Broncos
Player Cap number 2005 savings

OL Matt Lepsis $6,950,000 $5,050,000
DT Trevor Pryce $10,296,666 $8,529,996
DT Gerard Warren $8,250,000 $7,600,000

Detroit Lions
Player Cap number 2005 savings

CB Fernando Bryant $3,916,666 $2,249,998
QB Joey Harrington $12,043,750 $5,412,500

Green Bay Packers
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Na'il Diggs $3,812,500 $2,900,000
QB Brett Favre $12,633,333 $7,800,000
OL Adrian Klemm $1,600,000 $1,200,000

Houston Texans
Player Cap number 2005 savings

TE Mark Bruener $1,008,333 $1,008,332
CB Marcus Coleman $3,118,433 $585,299
RB Domanick Davis $3,800,000 $200,000 (charge)
DT Seth Payne $4,225,000 $850,000
OL Todd Wade $5,166,666 $1,500,002
DT Gary Walker $5,833,333 $1,500,001

Indianapolis Colts
Player Cap number 2005 savings

DT Josh Williams $3,700,000 $1,300,000

Jacksonville Jaguars
Player Cap number 2005 savings

TE Kyle Brady $3,346,250 $2,499,500
WR Jimmy Smith $7,224,333 $5,475,000

Kansas City Chiefs
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Shawn Barber $4,707,142 $1,278,568
OL Chris Bober $2,175,000 $1,275,000
RB Priest Holmes $5,330,804 $992,412 (charge)
CB Dexter McCleon $2,775,000 $1,600,000
CB Eric Warfield $4,264,285 $2,121,425
OL John Welbourn $1,400,000 $1,400,000
S Greg Wesley $3,766,666 $1,099,998
S Jerome Woods $2,908,333 $25,000

cont'd....

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 03:55 PM

cont'd...

Miami Dolphins
Player Cap number 2005 savings

QB Gus Frerotte $1,680,000 $1,430,000
CB Reggie Howard $4,000,000 $1,000,000
OL Jeno James $3,208,333 $374,999
S Tebucky Jones $6,800,000 $6,500,000
CB Sam Madison $6,305,931 $2,625,000
OL Damion McIntosh $4,475,000 $4,275,000
LB Junior Seau $2,923,750 $2,100,000
DT Jeff Zgonina $895,000 $770,000

Minnesota Vikings
Player Cap number 2005 savings

QB Daunte Culpepper $9,421,565 $3,770,290
OL Chris Liwienski $2,365,000 $1,465,000
WR Marcus Robinson $2,500,000 $1,500,000
OL Mike Rosenthal $1,950,000 $21,536 (Charge)

New England Patriots
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Chad Brown $1,242,500 $1,000,000
S Rodney Harrison $2,831,763 $1,563,527
CB Tyrone Poole $2,516,668 $2,006,250
CB Duane Starks $5,130,000 $5,130,000

New Orleans Saints
Player Cap number 2005 savings

S Jay Bellamy $1,150,000 $650,000
QB Todd Bouman $1,443,333 $1,024,999
QB Aaron Brooks $8,483,333 $4,516,665
TE Ernie Conwell $2,095,000 $1,255,000
OL Jermane Mayberry $4,245,000 $120,000
CB Fred Thomas $4,150,000 $1,650,000

New York Giants
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Carlos Emmons $3,000,000 $1,000,000
K Jeff Feagles $870,000 $670,000
LB Barrett Green $3,025,000 $1,375,000
DT Fred Robbins $3,251,666 $255,002 (charge)
WR Amani Toomer $6,375,000 $300,000 (charge)
S Shaun Williams $5,807,737 $1,750,000

New York Jets
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Eric Barton $3,915,000 $1,170,000
WR Laveranues Coles $10,000,000 $6,000,000
OL Jason Fabini $4,500,000 $3,200,000
QB Jay Fiedler $6,495,000 $6,095,000
OL Pete Kendall $5,187,000 $4,362,000
CB Ty Law $10,060,000 $7,660,000
LB Barry Gardner $815,000 $655,000
DT Lance Legree $1,850,000 $1,450,000
RB Jerald Sowell $922,857 $551,428
OL Kevin Mawae $4,466,666 $633,330
QB Chad Pennington $15,000,000 $3,000,000

Oakland Raiders
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Danny Clark $2,712,000 $1,389,000
QB Kerry Collins $12,897,666 $9,196,997
RB Zack Crockett $2,293,571 $2,079,284
S Derrick Gibson (declined option) $10,201,000 $9,397,000
DE Bobby Hamilton $5,320,000 $4,040,000
DT Warren Sapp $6,097,000 $109,000
OL Ron Stone $3,080,000 $2,760,000
CB Denard Walker $4,590,000 $4,290,000
DT Ted Washington $4,747,000 $1,759,000

Philadelphia Eagles
Player Cap number 2005 savings

DT Paul Grasmanis $700,000 $700,000
DE Jerome McDougle $2,001,666 $407,502
WR Terrell Owens $6,778,333 $4,544,999

Pittsburgh Steelers
Player Cap number 2005 savings

OL Jeff Hartings $8,129,166 $4,749,997
S Mike Logan $1,758,333 $1,474,999
QB Tommy Maddox $1,700,000 $600,000
OL Chukky Okobi $2,097,500 $1,751,500
RB Duce Staley $4,371,250 $857,500
CB Willie Williams $1,235,000 $985,000

San Diego Chargers
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Randall Godfrey $2,500,000 $1,900,000
S Jerry Wilson $1,120,000 $1,020,000

San Francisco 49ers
Player Cap number 2005 savings

DE Andre Carter $3,671,251 $1,349,998
DE Chris Cooper
CB Ahmed Plummer $8,083,569 $3,083,569
WR Johnnie Morton
OL Jeremy Newberry $5,118,583 $1,881,417
WR Rashaun Woods $1,400,666 $50,997

St. Louis Rams
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Chris Claiborne $3,900,000 $1,500,000
RB Marshall Faulk $4,027,856 $2,055,719

Seattle Seahawks
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Jamie Sharper $4,500,000 $3,300,000

Tampa Bay Bucs
Player Cap number 2005 savings

RB Mike Alstott $5,168,000 $4,663,996
LB Derrick Brooks $11,657,083 $5,499,998
LB Jeff Gooch $2,050,000 $1,850,000
QB Brian Griese $7,083,333 $4,549,999
RB Michael Pittman $2,117,000 $1,767,000
DE Simeon Rice $9,200,000 $2,800,000
LB Shelton Quarles $5,075,000 $1,925,000
LB Barrett Ruud $825,750 $822,250 (charge)
OL Matt Stinchcomb $2,225,000 $1,550,000

Tennessee Titans
Player Cap number 2005 savings

OL Eugene Amano $393,833 $384,999
OL Ken Amato $695,002 $204,994
RB Travis Henry $2,142,000 $1,574,000
OL Brad Hopkins $11,160,336 $4,608,990
OL Benji Olson $9,083,250 $5,982,750
QB Billy Volek $3,273,335 $1,953,329

Washington Redskins
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB LaVar Arrington $12,045,980 $120,308
S Matt Bowen $2,400,000 $2,000,000
K John Hall $1,965,000 $1,035,000
CB Walt Harris $2,750,000 $2,000,000
DT Brandon Noble $2,630,000 $1,700,000
QB Patrick Ramsey $2,881,500 $1,688,000
OL Cory Raymer $1,118,333 $984,999

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 04:04 PM

Here is who we are interested in so far....

During his NFL Combine interview, Texas OT Jonathan Scott said the Oakland Raiders are showing interest in him.

During his NFL Combine interview, UCLA RB Maurice Drew said the Oakland Raiders are one of the teams that are interested in him as a running back.

Rupert

02-23-2006, 04:55 PM

Oakland Raiders
Player Cap number 2005 savings

LB Danny Clark $2,712,000 $1,389,000
QB Kerry Collins $12,897,666 $9,196,997
RB Zack Crockett $2,293,571 $2,079,284
S Derrick Gibson (declined option) $10,201,000 $9,397,000
DE Bobby Hamilton $5,320,000 $4,040,000
DT Warren Sapp $6,097,000 $109,000
OL Ron Stone $3,080,000 $2,760,000
CB Denard Walker $4,590,000 $4,290,000
DT Ted Washington $4,747,000 $1,759,000
Gibson is already 86-ed. Savings: $9+ mil.
Walker and Stone shouldn't be retained. Savings: another $7+ mil.
We could renegotiate Hamilton, but there's little sense in doing so unless we think he's got many more years in him. Drafting Mario might be a reason to let Hamilton go or stay. Hmmm.
Collins is a possible restructure, but time is running out, and with a simplified offense, Tui and Walter can manage not to F it up too badly. Possible savings" another $9+ mil.

Rupert

02-23-2006, 05:10 PM

Interesting that we're talking to two projected 2nd round guys.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 05:43 PM

Here is a video of Kerry Collins playing against us....

Collins... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmiAf2STXWQ)

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 05:47 PM

Here is one of Woodson laying a hit on Terrell...

Wood.... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69vbqfWXqDQ)

brick

02-23-2006, 06:13 PM

I guess this qualifies as other stuff,

The coin flip between the Raiders and Niners will be Friday at 8pm ET.

Angry Pope

02-23-2006, 06:43 PM

Thanks a bunch, Brick.....

Here is a video of all of Andrew Walter's plays against the 49ers. I don't think it has been posted yet....

Andrew... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4wDAQ5Rzgc&search=andrew%20walter)

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 09:49 AM

Shoop changes roles...

Assistant coach John Shoop, considered a longshot for the head coaching job after interviewing with Al Davis, and who was thought to be a possibility for offensive coordinator, has been reassigned from quarterbacks to tight ends by coach Art Shell, according to a team source. Shell selected Tom Walsh, a Raiders assistant from 1982-94, as his offensive coordinator.

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 09:55 AM

Speculation....

Even if the 49ers fall behind their cross-bay rivals, they have someone on staff who knows a thing or two about how Raiders owner Al Davis thinks. David McCloughan, the team's director of college scouting - and Scot's older brother - spent nine years as a scout in Oakland.

David McCloughan said Thursday he thought the Raiders would be looking for a pass rusher or offensive lineman at No. 6, which means they might be targeting North Carolina State defensive end Mario Williams or Virginia offensive tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson, who would take over the left tackle spot from the aging Barry Sims. Another need is at linebacker, meaning Ohio State's A.J. Hawk could be a possibility.

Would Davis bring in Vanderbilt quarterback Jay Cutler, perhaps the hottest name at this year's combine?

Probably not, David McCloughan said, considering how enamored they are of last year's rookie quarterback, Andrew Walter.

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 10:06 AM

This one has a couple more things that Randy said and about the coaches hired...Millard DL coach...

Two assistants added; Woodson move official

By PHIL BARBER
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

After nearly two weeks of speculation, the Raiders finally added Tom Walsh and Jackie Slater to their coaching staff, Walsh as offensive coordinator and Slater as offensive line coach.

The team's Web site still did not reflect the additions as of Thursday night, but a Raiders official confirmed the two coaches were expected in Indianapolis to help evaluate talent at the NFL scouting combine.

It's Walsh's first NFL job since 1994. Slater has never coached at the professional level.

Walsh spent 15 years (1982-1994) as a Raiders assistant, coaching wide receivers, then quarterbacks along with a promotion to offensive coordinator.

When Art Shell was promoted to head coach in 1989, Walsh ran the offense until both men were dismissed by club owner Al Davis after the 1994 season. Walsh later spent two seasons as head coach at Idaho State. He was asked to resign Nov.5, 1998, after his team stumbled to a 2-6 start after going 3-8 in 1997. His offense never achieved success in Pocatello.

This will be Slater's maiden voyage as a coach, but his epic NFL playing career took him through 20 seasons and 259 games (most ever for an offensive lineman at the time of his retirement) as a tackle with the Los Angeles Rams. He was named to seven Pro Bowls and blocked for seven different 1,000-yard rushers.

The Raiders hope Slater and his assistant, Irv Eatman, can help shape third-year offensive tackle Robert Gallery into a Hall of Famer. Slater is already there, having been enshrined in Canton in 2001.

The Raiders also hired Daryl Sims as assistant defensive line coach, where he will work under Keith Millard (who has been promoted after serving in that position in 2005). Sims most recently coached in NFL Europe.

Meanwhile, Oakland - as expected - declined to use the "franchise" or "transitional" tag on cornerback Charles Woodson, opening the door to his free agency on March3.

Had they franchised Woodson, the Raiders would have been obligated to increase his salary 20 percent, bumping it to more than $12.6 million in 2006.

The only way he'll be back in Oakland is if he fails to land a lucrative free-agent contract and returns to the Raiders at a sharply reduced rate.

The Raiders also exercised an option that voids strong safety Derrick Gibson's contract. The underachieving strong safety was scheduled to make a preposterous $10 million in 2006.

EXTRA POINTS

Talking to Chris Myers on Fox Sports Radio - ostensibly to promote his new clothing line - Raiders wide receiver Randy Moss had choice words about the mood in the Oakland locker room in 2005.

"I just think that everybody had different agendas, different issues and really didn't concentrate and focus on playing for four quarters of football as a team," Moss said.

"I think that at the time it showed that. But you ask the champions - you ask New England, Pittsburgh, you know, Seattle Seahawks - you've got to come together as a team to be able to make it to the playoffs or make it to the Super Bowl, and I didn't think we had that."

Asked whether Shell can turn the Raiders into contenders, Moss said: "Uh, I'm not even sure. I mean, hopefully. You know, I'm a fan of Art Shell's and I paid a little bit of attention to him back when he coached back in the day, but I'm really not that familiar with him as a coach."

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 10:12 AM

Here is Randy saying more...

Moss admits to dropping ball in Raiders debut

Receiver calls his 2005 season disappointing
By MARK ANDERSON
REVIEW-JOURNAL

Randy Moss had 60 receptions for 1,005 yards and eight TDs last season for the Raiders.
Photo by The Associated Press

No one had to convince Randy Moss that his initial season with the Oakland Raiders was disappointing.

He readily admitted as much Thursday and said he'd like to experience more of the personal and team success he had with the Minnesota Vikings before being traded to Oakland last year.

"They pay me a lot of money to be able to try and win games and score touchdowns," Moss said. "Whenever you feel that you're unable to do that, it gets a player down when they depend on you to do a lot of things. I didn't have as good of a season as I wanted to have. It was very disappointing."

Moss, who was at the Las Vegas Convention Center unveiling his clothing lines, put up decent numbers last season but not the kind he was accustomed to in Minnesota, where he established himself as one of the NFL's most dynamic wide receivers.

He caught 60 passes for 1,005 yards with eight touchdowns. It was Moss' lowest yardage output for a full season and only the second time he has failed to reach double digits in touchdowns (seven in 2002).

Moss' numbers looked good compared with the Raiders' 4-12 record. That stat prompted coach Norv Turner's firing after consecutive losing seasons.

The Raiders replaced Turner with Art Shell, who previously coached the team from 1989 to 1994, going 56-41.

Shell, a Hall of Fame offensive tackle for the Raiders, was brought back to try to revive the franchise's winning ways of the 1970s and '80s.

"I just hope that what he brings to the table is enough to get us moving in the right direction," Moss said. "I just think they needed guys in leadership. I think the tradition and the mystique will take care of itself because we've got great tradition. We just needed someone to come in and get us right. Everything else will take care of itself."

On paper, Oakland appears to have enough firepower to be competitive. In addition to Moss, the Raiders' lineup includes quarterback Kerry Collins, receiver Jerry Porter and running back LaMont Jordan.

"We've got a lot of talent," Moss said. "We just don't how to put it together. You can have the talent, but if you don't put your mind into it, the talent's nothing. We need somebody to pick the guys up when we need it."

Moss might be catching passes from a different quarterback next season. Collins, due to make $8.5 million next season, probably would need to restructure his contract and take a pay cut to stay with the team.

Moss voiced his support for Collins, who passed for 3,759 yards and 20 touchdowns last season but was intercepted 12 times and completed just 54 percent of his passes.

"I like Kerry Collins at quarterback. I always said that," Moss said. "I think he just needs the protection and the time to read his progression and get us the ball and some good things can happen."

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 10:29 AM

Simeon Rice being shopped..supposedly...

The Bucs are said to be shopping veteran DE Simeon Rice, and there is speculation they may have a willing trade partner within the state.

Jacksonville officials have reportedly received a trade offer from the Bucs but the Jaguars have yet to tell the Bucs what, if anything, they'd be willing to give up for Rice.

Rice's agent, Tom Condon, said Thursday he had not heard any trade talk involving Rice but wasn't surprised to hear that rumors of a deal were flying.

"Simeon's got a huge cap number [$9.2 million], so people just assume somebody's going to try to do something with him," Condon said. "But I don't know anything about a trade."

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 10:55 AM

Here is a list you may like from Next Level Scouting...

Here is a team-by-team list of “Players of Interest” for each team who either spent occasions speaking to all the players listed one-or-more times after one-or-several practices, back in the respective hotel lobbies, in official/un-official meeting/hotel rooms or at the very least requested to speak further with the players after they completed a team profile sheet during the two week evaluation process that took place in mid-to-late January. We have also added a handful of Underclassmen who were interviewed during the week of one of the two games or contacted themselves or through their agents during that period of time.

However, one very interesting note on all of these interviews or meetings is the fact that on occasion teams will actually schedule an interview with a certain player in order to also ask him questions about a current or former teammate, even as far back as someone they played with in high school. In fact, while collecting the data to compile this list one player told us that every team he interviewed with specifically asked him 2-3 pointed questions about one of his college teammates, regarding his own evaluation of that players attitude, character and conduct off-the-field.

Will this be a foreshadow to what or how the teams plan to further evaluate the prospects listed below at the Combine and/or upcoming Pro Days will only prove out in time, but for now it might lend some insight to how teams might look to fill areas of need come April’s NFL Draft.

Oakland… Babatunde Oshinowo (Stanford, DT), Jay Cutler (Vanderbilt, QB), Ryan O’Callaghan (California, OL), Joseph Addai (LSU, RB), Mark Anderson (Alabama, DE), Mike Bell (Arizona, RB), Tye Hill (Clemson, CB/RT), Jerious Norwood (Mississippi State, RB), Pat Watkins (Florida State, S), Max Jean-Gilles (Georgia, OG), Mathias Kiwanuka (Boston College, DE), Marcedes Lewis (UCLA, TE), Dominique Byrd (USC, TE), Nick Mangold (Ohio State, OC), Marcus Hudson (NC State, DB), Tim Jennings (Georgia, CB/RT), Kyle Williams (LSU, DT), Jesse Mahelona (Tennessee, DT), Sinorice Moss (Miami, WR/RT), Derek Hagan (Arizona State, WR), Darryl Tapp (Virginia Tech, DE), Parys Haralson (Tennessee, DE/OLB), Kamerion Wimbley (Florida State, DE/OLB), David Anderson (Colorado State, WR/RT), Isaac Sowells (Indiana, OL), Steve Fifita (Utah, DT), Rashad Butler (Miami, OT), Eric Henderson (Georgia Tech, DE), Rocky McIntosh (Miami, LB), James Wyche (Syracuse, DE), Kevin Boothe (Cornell, OL), Jason Spitz (Louisville, OL), Brandon Hoyte (Notre Dame, LB), James Anderson (Virginia Tech, LB), Charlie Peprah (Alabama, S), Nate Salley (Ohio State, S), Dawan Landry (Georgia Tech, S), Greg Jennings (Western Michigan, WR), Tarvaris Jackson (Alabama State, QB), Gerrick McPhearson (Maryland, CB), Leon Washington (Florida State, RB), Jonathan Orr (Wisconsin, WR), Todd Watkins (BYU, WR), Dwayne Slay (Texas Tech, S), Danieal Manning (Abilene Christian, DB/RT), Paul Pinegar (Fresno State, QB), Taurean Henderson (Texas Tech, RB), Justin Wyatt (USC, CB), Jonathan Scifres (SW Missouri State, K), Mike Haas (Oregon State, WR), Gilbert Harris (Arizona, FB/RB), Joe Toledo (Washington, OT), Chris Kuper (North Dakota, OL), Tim Day (Oregon, TE), Reggie McNeal (Texas A&M, QB), Johnny Jolly (Texas A&M, DT), Brandon Williams (Wisconsin, WR/RT), Marques Colston (Hofstra, WR), Bruce Gradkowski (Toledo, QB), Tommy Jackson (Auburn, DT), Frostee Rucker (USC, DE), Josh Huston (Ohio State, K), Chris Gocong (Cal Poly, DE).

02-24-2006, 11:03 AM

Notice no AJ Hawk or Mario Williams, or Ngata in that list...

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 01:56 PM

More on Culpepper...

Asked if he would consider releasing Daunte Culpepper, coach Brad Childress said "you never say never."

In a surprisingly revealing press conference, Childress said the phone has been ringing both ways in regards to Culpepper. He said his focus is getting Culpepper healthy, but didn't hide the fact the Vikings are considering all their options.

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 03:51 PM

Possible rule change...

Fumbles May Get a Different Look

By Mark Maske
Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, February 24, 2006; 12:30 PM

INDIANAPOLIS -- The NFL's competition committee again is considering changing the instant-replay rules to try to ensure that plays involving fumbles are called correctly.

Committee members have had a series of meetings here this week and, according to one member, have talked about the possibility of proposing a rule change that would affect plays in which game officials incorrectly rule that a ballcarrier was down by contact before losing the ball on a fumble. Under the current rules, the defensive team cannot be awarded possession on such a play even if it recovers the ball and an instant-replay review shows that a fumble indeed occurred before the ballcarrier was down by contact.

The proposal would allow the referee to award possession to the defensive club after a replay review on such a play. The competition committee made such a proposal last year but the measure fell four votes shy of gaining the 24 votes among the 32 teams necessary for approval.

The committee will resume its deliberations when members meet over eight days just before the annual league meetings begin in late March in Orlando, and will decide then what recommendations to make to the league's team owners.

Rupert

02-24-2006, 04:46 PM

A good rule change if it's made. One of the criticisms of the current rules is that everything would have to be ruled a fumble and subsequently challenged and overturned, which is not why replay and the rules surrounding it were implemented.

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 06:02 PM

We spoke with Vince Young...

As for his funky throwing motion, Vince Young says the NFL's reaction thus far at the combine has been: "What funky throwing motion?''

"I've talked with coaches here, and they tell me there's nothing really wrong with it,'' Young said Friday. "It's the media that keep talking about it. A lot of guys, a lot of coaches, say don't change anything. Keep being yourself and doing what you do.''

• What teams have requested and talked to Young thus far? The Raiders and the Rams. Huh. Vince Young a Raider? Wouldn't that be interesting.

Plunkett16

02-24-2006, 06:19 PM

We spoke with Vince Young...
why draft qb when we have walters. why keepgetting qb when we never use them how is walters supposed to get any nfl experience if he doesn['t get ot play. one reason why tui hasn't progress period.

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 07:10 PM

Here is a different look at free agency...

PFT 2006 FREE AGENCY RANKINGS

POSTED: February 23, 2006

Anyone can list free agents, or apply a letter grade or a number score to each of them. In the modern NFL, however, money talks and bullsh-t walks (it smells really, really bad, too).

So we'll list the 2006 free agents based on one and only one factor -- the signing bonus that the player is expected to receive.

Scientific? Hardly. Accurate? Perhaps. We had Reggie Wayne pegged at a signing bonus of $12.5 million -- and the contract he agreed to on Wednesday included a $13.5 million.

For players wearing the franchise or transition tag, there's a possibility that they will play under the one-year tender.

Here we go . . . .

John Abraham, DE (franchise tag): $14.0 million.

Steve Hutchinson, OG (transition tag): $13.0 million.

LeCharles Bentley, C: $12.5 million.

Shaun Alexander, RB: $12.5 million.

Nate Clements, CB (franchise tag): $12.0 million.

Julian Peterson, LB: $10.0 million.

Edgerrin James, RB: $10.0 million.

Darren Howard, DE: $9.5 million.

Matt Lepsis, OT: $9.0 million.

Gerard Warren, DT: $8.5 million.

Jeff Backus, OG (franchise tag): $8.5 million.

Antonio Bryant, WR: $8.5 million.

Drew Brees, QB: $8.0 million.

Charles Woodson, CB: $8.0 million.

Larry Tripplett, DT: $8.0 million.

Rocky Bernard, DT: $7.5 million.

Will Witherspoon, LB: $7.0 million.

David Thornton, LB: $7.0 million.

Brian Williams, CB (transition tag): $7.0 million.

Antwaan Randle El, WR: $6.5 million.

Will Allen, CB: $6.0 million.

Kevin Shaffer, OT: $5.0 million.

Anthony Weaver, DE: $5.0 million.

Jamal Lewis, RB: $5.0 million.

DeShaun Foster, RB: $5.0 million.

Aaron Kampman, DE: $4.5 million.

David Givens, WR: $4.5 million.

Toniu Fonoti, OG: $4.5 million.

Jon Kitna, QB: $4.5 million.

DeShea Townsend, CB: $4.0 million.

Koren Robinson, WR: $4.0 million.

Adam Vinatieri, K: $3.5 million.

Chris Hope, S: $3.0 million.

Ahman Green, RB: $3.0 million.

Justin Hartwig, C: $3.0 million.

Nick Greisen, LB: $3.0 million.

Adam Archuleta, S: $3.0 million.

Dexter Jackson, S: $2.5 million.

Chester Taylor, RB: $2.5 million.

Joe Jurevicius, WR: $2.5 million.

Ben Leber, LB: $2.5 million.

Ty Law, CB: $2.5 million.

Michael Bennett, RB: $2.5 million.

L.J. Shelton, OT: $2.5 million.

Chris Hovan, DT: $2.5 million.

Corey Chavous, S: $2.0 million.

Tommy Polley, LB: $2.0 million.

David Boston, WR: $2.0 million.

Chris Weinke, QB: $2.0 million.

R.W. McQuarters, CB: $2.0 million.

Kendrick Clancy, DT: $1.75 million.

Najeh Davenport, RB: $1.5 million.

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 08:51 PM

Here is a clip of our Raiders, in the past and present, hitting someone, to the tune of Another One Bites The Dust....

Here.... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3vTmj-rI2M)

brick

02-24-2006, 08:52 PM

Notice no AJ Hawk or Mario Williams, or Ngata in that list...

Lots of times teams manage to talk to these guys at the senior bowl, private workouts, whatever... I wouldn't put much stock in the Raiders not talking to them at the combine.

Angry Pope

02-24-2006, 08:54 PM

Here is a clip of Art's stint as our head coach....

Here... (http://www.youtube.com/?v=vHITcaGwCMM)

CrossBones

02-24-2006, 09:21 PM

Here is a clip of our Raiders, in the past and present, hitting someone, to the tune of Another One Bites The Dust....

Here.... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3vTmj-rI2M)Woooooooo....another one bits the dust.

I miss the 70's. ;)

Plunkett16

02-24-2006, 09:48 PM

Woooooooo....another one bits the dust.

I miss the 70's. ;)
I was such young kid lol i was born in the 70's:) :D

Angry Pope

02-25-2006, 12:19 AM

More of who we talked with...

Vince Young – QB – Texas

Measured in at 6'5, 229 lbs. He has interviewed with the Raiders and Rams. His agent is Major Applewhite.

Erik Meyer – QB – Eastern Washington

6'1, 210, everything, Falcons, Lions, Jets, Raiders.

Maurice Drew – RB – UCLA

Measured in at 5'6 ¾, 201. He will do all workouts here. Teams who have shown interest in Drew include the Colts, Pats, Jags, Raiders, Seahawks, Browns, Bengals and Steelers who may be looking at Drew as a punt returner should Antwaan Randle-El leave via free agency.

Jonathan Scott - OT – Texas

Measured in at 6'6 ¾, 315. He has received interest from the Patriots, Browns, Cowboys, Buccaneers, Chiefs, Raiders, Titans, Texans, Bengals, Bears, and Packers.

Marcus McNeill - OT - Auburn

Measured in at 6'7 ½, 336 and has interviewed with Jets, Raiders, Chiefs, Chargers.

Angry Pope

02-25-2006, 12:26 AM

Some speculation...

The San Francisco 49ers winning the coin toss and 6th overall pick in the draft is more significant than just a one spot bump. The feeling among some personnel people is that once the combine has subsided, the first round will settle into three talent tiers.
The first tier is the "Super Seven" – USC running back Reggie Bush and quarterback Matt Leinart, Texas quarterback Vince Young, Virginia offensive tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson, N.C. State defensive end Mario Williams, Ohio State linebacker A.J. Hawk, and Vanderbilt quarterback Jay Cutler. Then there is expected to be a lower talent plateau to choose from between picks 8 through 18, and another slight drop from 19 through 32.

While San Francisco was already in the Super Seven before the coin toss, the prevailing feeling is that the 49ers and Oakland Raiders are aiming for the same player – Hawk. But if San Francisco had lost the toss and ended up at No. 7, it was widely believed the 49ers were a candidate to trade back from that spot on draft day if Hawk was off the board. Now that the 49ers have the 6th pick, it looks like they may not have to move at all. In turn, Oakland is likely to stay put, depriving another team of the chance to trade up for whoever falls to seven.