NFL Quick Bits - NFL Breaking News and Fantasy Football Updates

Quick Bits Heading
Last Updated: Wed May 16, 2012, 2:27 PM

Browse the Quick Bits Archives

-- Kenny Britt to Undergo Minor Knee Surgery --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tennessean reports Titans WR Kenny Britt is undergoing arthroscopic surgery today to repair a minor issue with his right knee. The surgery is not expected to be much of a setback in Britt's rehab. Titans GM Ruston Webster called the procedure "commonplace". Britt could miss a week or two in rehab, but Webster's hope is he'll still be back for the start of the season after an ACL tear last season.

-- Wes Welker Signs Franchise Tender --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports New England Patriots WR Wes Welker has signed his franchise tender, according to a source with knowledge of the situation.

-- Save $40 Off the Cost of MyFantasyLeague.com! --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com would like to announce that for the 8th year in a row MyFantasyLeague.com is our fantasy football league management system promotional partner for 2012! MyFantasyLeague.com is the Home of the Internet's #1 FFL Management System. If you are looking for a site to run your league, MyFantasyLeague.com is for you! And for a limited time (through June 9th), those patrons who subscribe to either the FFMastermind.com Super Bowl or Pro Bowl Premium Package will receive more than a 28% discount off the price of the Earlybird cost ($40 Off the Normal Cost) of MyFantasyLeague.com for 2012. That makes your cost for one league only $49.95! That price is the LOWEST in the HISTORY of our partnership! Order Now to take advantage of this fantastic deal!

-- Charges Unlikely to be Filed Against Brandon Marshall in Nightclub Incident --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York police are likely to wrap up their investigation this week into a March nightclub incident in which Chicago Bears WR Brandon Marshall is alleged to have punched a woman in the face, NFL sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter. Police have struggled to find evidence against Marshall, according to sources, and it's likely there will be no charges filed and the case will be closed.

-- 2012 NFL Depth Charts Debuts! --
Wed May 9, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Looking for an accurate 2012 NFL Depth Chart? No problem. FFMastermind.com debuts our 2012 NFL Depth Charts! These special depth charts go three teams deep for all 32 NFL teams and can be viewed with a premium Pro Bowl or Super Bowl package purchase. They will be updated often as we march towards the start of the 2012 NFL season! Log into your premium account to check out the first cut!

-- May Offensive Overall & Positional Rookie Rankings! --
Sat May 5, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Premium Pro Bowl and Super Bowl package subscribers take note. FFMastermind.com Senior Fantasy Writer John Holler has completed his fantasy analysis of the April Rookie Draft to offer his Mastermind's Madness May Short-Term/Long-Term Offensive Overall & Positional Rookie Rankings. This special feature includes a set of top 50 rankings for 2012 (short-term) and a top 50 set for the next three years (long-term) regarding the Rookie Class from a Fantasy Viewpoint. In addition, Holler adds his fantasy analysis in positional rookie rankings (both short-term and long-term for QBs, RBs, WRs, TEs, and PKs) covering 77 key skilled-position rookies! Log into your premium account and Enjoy.

-- Comprehensive 2012 NFL Rookie Draft Review Released! --
Sat May 5, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Premium Pro Bowl & Super Bowl Package subscribers take note. FFMastermind.com Senior Fantasy Writer John Holler returns this month with a special comprehensive look at the Rookie Class of 2012 in Mastermind's Madness NFL Rookie Draft Review. This special update includes Fantasy Analysis (Team-by-Team) of the 2012 Rookie Class. Log into your premium account and Enjoy!

-- Team FFMastermind.com Wins Record 3rd FanEx Title! --
Mon Dec 26, 2011 --from FFMastermind.com

Team FFMastermind.com led by Michael Nazarek and Chris Rito won their record 3rd Fantasy Championship in one of the oldest fantasy football experts leagues in the country, FanEx. You can CLICK HERE to check out the final score! That makes THREE titles in the last eight years along with two runner-up finishes! And that also makes it EIGHT STRAIGHT YEARS FFMastermind.con has won at least one Experts league title!

Last Updated: Wed May 16, 2012, 2:27 PM

-- Three Rams Sit Wednesday --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Rams WR Danario Alexander (hamstring), S Matt Daniels (knee), and TE Ben Guidugli (foot) sat out the team's Wednesday OTA.

-- Cardinals Sign Landon Cohen --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Arizona Cardinals official website reports the Cardinals have signed free-agent DL Landon Cohen.

-- Titans to Sign 3rd-Rounder Mike Martin --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tennessean reports the Titans have agreed to terms on a four-year deal with DT Mike Martin, the team's third-round draft pick. The deal is worth $2.72 million.

-- Colts Injury Update --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Indianapolis Star reports Colts rookie QB Chandler Harnish might miss 2-3 weeks with a knee issue, while RB Delone Carter is on the mend from surgery on his thumb.

-- Willie Colon Moved to Left Guard --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Pittsburgh Steelers OT Willie Colon has tweeted that the team has officially moved hnim to left guard.

-- Josh Cribbs Reaches Plea Agreement in Speeding Case --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Beacon Journal reports Browns WR Josh Cribbs reached a plea agreement with prosecutors Tuesday morning in Cleveland Municipal Court to resolve his speeding-citation case. Cribbs was charged for driving 103 mph in a 60-mph zone on Interstate 71 when he was pulled over at 8:45 p.m. April 20 near Fulton Road in Cleveland, according to court records. He originally pleaded not guilty to the speeding charge, which carried a four-point penalty against his driver’s license. However, the charge was reduced Tuesday to driving 89 mph in a 60-mph zone, and the penalty against Cribbs’ licensed was changed to two points, according to the records. Cribbs pleaded no contest to the amended charge and was found guilty. He paid $302 in fines and court costs.

-- Joe McKnight Bulks Up 15 lbs --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports New York Jets RB Joe McKnight said he's up 15 lbs, up to 216.

-- Working Doubletime to Help You Win! --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com Super Bowl premium package subscriber Frank Kendelson shares his thoughts on why Working Doubletime was a key factor for his fantasy title in 2011. Patrons considering a subscription should check out Frank's comments!

-- Vikings to Spends Plenty of Time in Mankato for Training Camp --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Minnesota Vikings will spend more time in Mankato for training camp in 2012 than they have in years. The team announced on Wednesday that players will report to camp on July 26 and stay for three weeks -- returning for the week following their Aug. 10 preseason opener at San Francisco, rather than reconvening for practice that week at Winter Park. Camp will break on Aug. 16, a day before the second preseason game against Buffalo at the Metrodome.

-- Dolphins to Host Ovie Mughelli --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports free-agent FB Ovie Mughelli will visit with the Miami Dolphins on Thursday.

-- MJD Watch --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Florida Times-Union reports Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew has two years left on the five-year, $31 million deal that he signed in 2009 that will pay him $9.4 million the next two seasons. Neither Jones-Drew nor his agent, Adisa Bakari, have said publicly that he wants an extension, but there’s been much speculation because his contract has been surpassed by several running backs. RB Chris Johnson, RB Arian Foster and RB Marshawn Lynch received bigger deals in the past year, and Adrian Peterson, Deangelo Williams and Steven Jackson also have more lucrative contracts. Jones-Drew won the NFL rushing title last year, gaining 1,606 yards. He is expected to be a focal point of Mularkey’s new offense, but he’s also 27 years old and running backs don’t tend to have long careers. He has carried 312, 299 and 343 times in the three seasons since Fred Taylor retired. A team spokesman said there have been no discussions about a contract extension for Jones-Drew.

-- Chiefs Sign 5th-Rounder De'Quan Menzie --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Kansas City Chiefs have signed 5th-round draft pick CB De'Quan Menzie to a four-year contract.

-- Chiefs Sign Four --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Kansdas City Chiefs have signed TE Martin Rucker, DB Dominique Ellis, LB Leon Williams, and OL Rich Ranglin.

-- Texans PK Watch --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Texans official website reports the Texans have two kickers on the roster, PK Randy Bullock (rookie fifth-round draft pick out of Texas A&M) and PK Shayne Graham (11-year veteran, signed on May 8). Special teams coordinator Joe Marciano made it clear the job won’t be given to Bullock. “He has to compete to make the team first,” Marciano said. “If he can beat Shayne out, then I think he’s going to be very good for us.” Marciano said he’ll chart every kick Bullock and Graham make this offseason, similar to the competition between PK Neil Rackers and PK Kris Brown in 2010 that lasted through the preseason. “Over the long haul through the OTAs and training camp, there’ll be somewhere in the vicinity of 130-150 kicks that we’ve charted, and let the best man win,” Marciano said. Marciano also praised Bullock’s strong-mindedness, calling him “almost unflappable, almost unbreakable.” And he went out of his way to throw in this at the end of the interview: “There’s a reason why there was six kickers franchise tagged this year. I mean, that’s unheard of. I think the reason is, when you’ve got one, you better hold on to him. So if Bullock comes through for us, which I think he might, we’ll have one for a long time.”

-- Peters & Suggs Could Lose Millions Due Thier Injuries --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports Philadelphia Eagles OT Jason Peters and Baltimore Ravens LB Terrell Suggs, two All-Pro players who have suffered offseason Achilles injuries that have put part or all of their 2012 seasons in jeopardy, may lose millions of dollars in salary because both fall under the "Nonfootball injury" provision of the collective bargaining agreement. The applicable wording in the CBA, Article 20, Section 3 provision states: "A player who is placed on a Nonfootball injury or Illness list ("N-F/I") is not entitled to any compensation under his contract while on such list ..." Both players have claimed they were injured during off-site training sessions but league and union sources agree that any injury sustained that does not occur at the team's facility or under its direction is considered a "Nonfootball injury." The Eagles and Ravens may act in accordance with their own wishes and pay the players all or part of their salaries. League sources say both Peters and Suggs are facing a financial reduction in 2012. Peters will be subject to loss of at least $3.25 million of his scheduled base salary of $7.9 million in 2012 because that is the amount the Eagles will pay his replacement, former Bills OT Demetress Bell, to take his spot. League sources say the team already has amicably discussed the financial reduction with Peters and his representative, Eugene Parker.

-- Giants to Receive Super Bowl Ring on Wednesday --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports New York Giants QB Eli Manning says he's looking forward to getting his latest Super Bowl ring Wednesday. The Super Bowl champs are being presented with the ring Wednesday evening in Manhattan at Tiffany & Co. Manning, who won his first Super Bowl in 2008, says he doesn't wear that ring much. "I kind of wear it on special occasions up to the start of the season, then I put it away," Manning told CNN on Wednesday. "It's a big ring. It's almost hard to wear."

-- John Haskell Wins 2010 FFPC $100K Fantasy Championship --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com would like to congratulate premium subscriber John Haskell on winning the 2010 FFPC High Stakes Fantasy Football Championship and the $100,000 that goes along with it. Eagles QB Michael Vick and Vikings RB Adrian Peterson sealed the deal for John on Tuesday night in week #16!

-- Mackenzy Bernadeau OUT 10-12 Weeks After Hip Surgery --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Dallas Cowboys will have to wait before they see OG Mackenzy Bernadeau on the practice field. According to multiple sources, Bernadeau, who signed a four-year, $11 million deal as a free agent in March, had surgery over the weekend to repair a tear in his right hip and the hope is he could be back in 10-12 weeks.

-- Bears Moving Chris Williams Back to OT --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Chicago Bears steadfastly denied the need to add to the offensive line this offseason because they plan to deploy the pieces already on hand differently, according to sources familiar with the situation, who said veteran OT Chris Williams will move back to offensive tackle.

-- Jaguars Injury Update --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Florida Times-Union reports Jaguars rookie WR Justin Blackmon (foot) missed the final day of the rookie minicamp with a sore foot, but was back practicing Tuesday. He said the sore foot was caused by new cleats. “Some cleats fit bad on my feet. It just happens with new cleats. Your feet get sore. That’s all that happened,” Blackmon said. WR Taylor Price was on crutches after suffering a stress fracture when it was stepped on in the previous camp. He had surgery and a pin put in and will miss the rest of the offseason. CB Rashean Mathis is apparently making good progress from his torn anterior cruciate ligament. He’s running well and Mularkey said he hopes to have him back by training camp and possibly by early June. He also said DT Aaron Kampman is behind Mathis in his return from IR. Tyson Alualu might be back by early June from his knee surgery. Also sidelined were CB Ashton Youboty and DE John Chick. LB Paul Posluszny is seeing limited duty in the drills, but hasn’t been cleared for contact after having offseason shoulder surgery.

-- Mike Wallace Refusing to Sign RFA Tender --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Pittsburgh Steelers restricted free-agent WR Mike Wallace still has no imminent plans to sign his one-year tender. "He's not going to sign that tender anytime soon," Schefter said. "It may be awhile before they see Wallace."

-- Alex Smith Making Adjustments to Throwing Motion --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CSNBayArea.com reports San Francisco 49ers QB Alex Smith is no longer locking front leg when he throws.

-- Alfonzo Dennard to Ber Arraigned on May 30th --
Wed May 16, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports New England Patriots 7th-round draft pick CB Alfonzo Dennard’s draft stock took a major hit after he allegedly assaulted a police officer the weekend before the draft. Dennard’s legal difficulties persist. According to the Omaha World-Herald, Dennard will be arraigned May 30 on a charge of third-degree felony assault of a police officer. He has waived his right to a preliminary hearing. Dennard remains free on $5,000 bond. He faces up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

-- Raiders to Sign Owen Schmitt --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports the Oakland Raiders were set to sign free-agent FB Owen Schmitt to a one-year contract, a source with knowledge of the situation said Tuesday.

-- Brandon Marshall Knows He'll Always Be a Target --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports on Monday, a report emerged that New York police likely will not charge Chicago Bears WR Brandon Marshall for punching in the face a woman outside a nightclub. Marshall himself believes that, in time, he’ll be exonerated. “It’s so important to be aware of your environment and to put yourself in clean and healthy environments,” Marshall said, via John Mullin of CSNChicago.com. “There’s surveillance cameras all over the place and there’s not many places where a 6-5, 230-pound guy can hide. So the truth will come out and when it does, I’ll be sitting in a great place.” Unless he thinks jail is a “great place,” that sounds like an expression of supreme confidence. Marshall also realizes that he will be blamed for anything that goes wrong in his immediate vicinity. "Until the New York Police Department comes out and says [the investigation is concluded], there’s really not much for me to say,” Marshall said. “What I will say is the same thing I’ve said from day one: When you’ve been through things like I’ve been through, you become a target."

-- Why Subscribe to FFMastermind.com? --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Why subscribe to Fantasy Football Mastermind? Click HERE and we'll tell you why. Remember, it's never too early to get access to the best fantasy football information from The Definitive Fantasy Information Service, the same service that's topped the most knowledgeable experts at SI.com for FOUR consecutive years! Take it from thousands of Satisfied Customers. We are serious about helping you REACH A HIGHER PLATEAU and win it all!

-- Cardinals Sign Three Drafted Rookies --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Arizona Cardinals official website reports the Cardinals have signed fifth-round draft pick OG Senio Kelemete and sixth-round draft picks QB Ryan Lindley and S Justin Bethel to four-year contracts.

-- Darius Fleming Tears ACL --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports San Francisco 5th-round draft pick LB Darius Fleming tore his ACL, tried to go back into drills, then realized something was wrong.

-- Chiefs Sign 2nd-Rounder Jeff Allen --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Scout.com reports the Kansas City Chiefs have signed second-round draft pick OT Jeff Allen to a four-year contract, according to a league source with knowledge of the deal.

-- Falcons Sign 3rd-Rounder Lamar Holmes --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Atlanta Falcons have signed third-round draft pick OT Lamar Holmes to a four-year contract.

-- Earnest Graham Appears Done with Football --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tampa Bay Times reports free-agent RB Earnest Graham said his Achilles ruptured in the middle. Sometimes, the tendon can look like strands of spaghetti after the injury, but Graham said his was a clean tear and he was optimistic for a quick recovery. But complications developed after surgery when he had a reaction to the sutures and developed an infection. Graham says he is only 75 to 80 percent recovered and not able to play if he wanted to. At 32, he said he would only consider "the right opportunity" and is at peace with making the transition from football.

-- Johnny Jolly Granted Shock Probation --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

KTRK in Houston reports a judge Tuesday granted Houstonian and former DT Johnny Jolly 'shock probation' for 10 years. The former Green Bay Packer is serving a six-year sentence linked to his addiction to a codeine concoction known on the street as "purple drank." Jolly applied for 'shock probation,' which allows for certain convicts to be released early on probation after experiencing the shock or trauma of being in jail. The judge gave Jolly 10 years shock probation along with 200 hours of community service.

-- DeMarco Murray Cleared to Play --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Dallas Morning News reports Cowboys RB DeMarco Murray (ankle) said Monday that the ankle injury that prematurely ended his standout rookie season has healed and he has been cleared by team doctors. “It's great,” Murray said. “I've been officially cleared by our doctors and I've been doing everything the past month or two without any limitations. I feel great.”

-- Mularkey: MJD Wants a New Deal --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Florida Times-Union reports Jaguars HC Mike Mularkey confirmed that RB Maurice Jones-Drew has talked about getting a new contract and that he is skipping OTAs in an attempt to do so.

-- 2012 EarlyBird Premium Rates Continue! --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

For the 16th consecutive year, FFMastermind.com is proud to offer special EarlyBird Discount Rates for our Premium Services. With the release of our Initial 2011 Keeper/Dynasty Player Rankings, Top 12 (PPR & Non-PPR) Rankings and our Madness Rookie Information Features, the 2012 Premium Season is underway. How do you get access to these special off-season items? That's easy. Just head over to our Secure Order Form and order our 2012 Pro Bowl package or Super Bowl package and you'll be hooked up to receive access to premium information EACH MONTH for the NEXT 10 MONTHS. Fantasy football to us is a year-round job, not just a seasonal hobby. Why Fantasy Football Mastermind? Click HERE and we''ll tell you why. Remember, it's never too early to get a leg up on your competition!

-- Seahawks Make Player Moves --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Seattle Seahawks have released CB London Durham, LB Adrian Moten, OT Jon Opperud and OL Brent Osborne. The team also agreed to terms with OT Alex Barron, TE Cooper Helfet, CB Donny Lisowski and OT Andrew Mitchell.

-- Jay Cutler Concerned About OL --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports there's an enhanced sense of optimism among Chicago Bears fans following the additions of WR Brandon Marshall, RB Michael Bush and others, but QB Jay Cutler isn't ready to celebrate offseason moves just yet. "The offensive line is definitely going to be a concern, seeing where those guys fit in, and seeing what five we go with," Cutler said Monday. "If Gabe (Carimi) comes back (from knee surgery), if J'Marcus (Webb) pans out, Chris Williams, where are we going to put him at? There are some question marks there. Until we really get that resolved and get our front five settled in, we have some work to do on the offense."

-- Jets to Sign 6th-Rounder Robert Griffin --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Daily News reports the Jets have come to terms on a four-year deal with 6th-round draft pick OL Robert Griffin.

-- Lions List Jerome Harrison; Make Other Moves --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Detroit Free Press reports the Detroit Lions placed RB Jerome Harrison on the reserve/non-football illness list today, to make room for the two rookie tryout players they signed during the weekend: S Sam Proctor and WR Wallace Miles. Harrison was diagnosed with a brain tumor by Philadelphia Eagles doctors last year, after the Lions traded him to Philadelphia in a deadline deal that was voided. The former Kalamazoo Central star did not return an email seeking comment Monday, and messages left for his agent and family have not been returned in recent months. Harrison underwent surgery to remove the tumor shortly after it was discovered. Harrison, who is entering the last season of his contract, was not expected to play this year.

-- Run DMC Full Go Today --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Contra Costa Times reports Raiders RB Darren McFadden (Lisfranc) looks full go out their in practice today. He's running, catching, cutting, and doing every drill.

-- Cardinals Sign 4th-Rounder Bobby Massie --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Arizona Cardinals official website reports the Cardinals have signed 4th-round draft pick OT Bobby Massie to a four-year contract.

-- Tim Hightower Watch --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Washington Times reports Washington Redskins RB Tim Hightower, who turns 26 on May 23, has a strong chance to begin 2012 as the starter despite his torn ACL injury. He said he signed for one year. Redskins coaches believe him to be a strong fit for the outside zone scheme because of his speed, vision and ability to square his shoulders to the line of scrimmage and burst up field. He also is sound in pass protection. Asked if doctors have fully cleared him, Hightower said only that he has been cleared to keep training and preparing for the season.

-- Patriots Release Mike Hartline --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Scout.com reports the New England Patriots have released QB Mike Hartline.

-- A Magic Act in 2010 --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com Super Bowl premium package subscriber Barry P. shares his thoughts on why our premium services are a real Magic Act. Patrons eyeing a subscription should check out what Barry has to say!

-- Terrance Knighton Health Watch --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Jacksonville Jaguars official website reports Jaguars NT Terrance Knighton (eye surgery) said his eye is healking faster than expected and that he expects to be ready for training camp.

-- Bears Sign 3rd-Rounder Brandon Hardin --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Sun Times reports 3rd-round draft pick S Brandon Hardin has signed a four-year, $2.7 million contract, with the Bears, according to league source.

-- Chiefs to Host Yeremiah Bell --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports free-agent S Yeremiah Bell is scheduled to visit the Kansas City Chiefs on Wednesday.

-- LeGarrette Blount Trims Down 5-10 lbs --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tampa Bay Times reports Buccaneers RB LeGarrette Blount says he has trimmed down during the off-season, losing between five and 10 lbs.

-- Saints Make Player Moves --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Times-Picayune reports the Saints announced they have signed OT Hutch Eckerson, CB Nick Hixson, OG DeOn'tae Pannell and LB Lawrence Wilson. The team waived OT Dan Hoch, OG Nick Howell, LB Stephen Johnson, OT Phil Trautwein and CB Josh Victorian. All four new additions participated in last weekend's rookie minicamp.

-- Two Saints to be Limited --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Times-Picayune reports Saints interim HC Joe Vitt also said LB Jonathan Vilma and OG Jahri Evans, who had his knee scoped after the season, will be limited during offseason workouts.

-- Saints PK Watch - The Battle Begins --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Times-Picayune reports when the Saints re-signed veteran PK John Kasay last month to a one-year extension, the move was widely viewed as more insurance in case PK Garrett Hartley wasn't fully healed from the hip injury that kept him sidelined last season. But Saints special teams coordinator Greg McMahon said the return of the 42-year-old Kasay means he and Hartley will be entrenched in an open competition for the kicking duties. "We're going to make it competitive absolutely," McMahon said. "All phases of our team are. We re-signed John for a reason. Garrett knows that, and it will certainly be good competition. It's healthy. It's good for us." Kasay, who played in all 16 regular-season games and both playoff contests last season, hit 28 of 34 field-goal attempts, the longest being 53 yards. He also made all 63 extra-point kicks he attempted. Kasay has appeared in 301 regular-season games, converting 461 of 563 (81.9 percent) field-goal attempts in a 21-year career. His 1,970 points scored ranks eighth in NFL history. Hartley, one of the heroes of the Saints' Super Bowl run in 2009, has made 42 of 49 career field goals, with a long of 52 yards. He also has converted 78 of 79 extra-point attempts.

-- Three Bucs No-Show OTA's; Two Bucs Dinged --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tampa Bay Times reports Buccaneers TE Kellen Winslow has no-showed the team's OTA's. Also missing from OTA's, which are voluntary, are DT Brian Price and WR Dezmon Briscoe. GM Mark Doninik says RB Doug Martin has a slight hamstring strain. WR Preston Psrker just tweaked his knee, but appears to be OK.

-- Sign Up for Free Fantasy Newsletters! --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Wondering what information we pack into our free e-mail fantasy newsletters each month? How about the latest NFL news? Or maybe the latest upgrades to our site? Previews of coming attractions? Links to the hottest pages at FFMastermind.com? Special offers made exclusively to free mailer recipients? Yes, to all of the above and occasional FREE SNEAK PEEKS into a portion of our premium services too! What are they? Only those who have signed up to receive the newsletter know and we're not telling! Just click HERE, submit the form with your e-mail address, and we'll send you exactly what we send them! You'll get your FREE SNEAK PEEKS, but most importantly, you'll be kept well informed by the Definitive Fantasy Football Information Service all year round! What more can you ask?

-- Ronde Barber Working at Free Safety --
Tue May 15, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tampa Bay Times reports Buccaneers CB Ronde Barber is working as the starting free safety during the team's OTA's, not at cornerback. The "experiment" is underway.

-- Mularkey: Blaine Gabbert is Our Starter --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports in Jacksonville, where QB Blaine Gabbert is returning as the starter in a new offense, HC Mike Mularkey insists he’s confident in what he has. According to Mularkey, QB Chad Henne was signed strictly as a backup and does not have the opportunity to earn the starting job in training camp. Instead, Mularkey told Albert Breer of NFL Network, the job belongs to Gabbert, period. “No, it’s not [a competition]. Blaine’s our starting quarterback,” Mularkey said.

-- Jay Cutler Says Thumb is Fine --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports Chicago Bears QB Jay Cutler says his right thumb is fine and he can't wait to return to lead a significantly upgraded Bears offense. Cutler said he's recovered from offseason surgery to repair the fractured thumb. He suffered the injury late last November against San Diego while making a tackle on Antoine Cason, who had just picked off the Bears quarterback. "It's fine," he said Monday. "I really didn't throw a lot in the offseason, rehabbed a little bit and came back and felt good."

-- Buccaneers Sign 5th-Rounder Najee Goode --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have signed 5th-round draft pick LB Najee Goode to a four-year contract.

-- Giants Release Chad Jones --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Ledger reports the Giants have waived S Chad Jones after a failed physical. ESPN adds the team made it clear it will continue to work with Jones during his rehab. Jones was hoping to make it back onto the field during training camp this summer after he nearly lost his left leg and foot in a car accident in June 2010 shortly after the Giants drafted him. In a statement released by the team, Rocky Arceneaux, Jones' agent, said the former third-round pick "is experiencing a minor setback and we expect a full recovery within a few months."

-- Chargers Sign 3rd-Rounder Brandon Taylor --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The San Diego Union-Tribune reports the Chargers have signed 3rd-round draft pick SS Brandon Taylor to a four-year contract.

-- Titans to Host Bell & Crocker --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tennessean reports free-agent veteran S Yeremiah Bell and S Chris Crocker are scheduled to visit the Titans on Tuesday, as the team explores its options at position.

-- Unsigned Franchised Connor Barth to Attend OTA's --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Tampa Bay Times reports Bucs PK Connor Barth was aboard a US Air flight in North Carolina bound for Tampa on Monday night, the eve of the team's first day or organized team activities. The Bucs' franchise designee has not signed his $2.645-million tender nor reached an agreement on a long-term deal. But based on his tweet Monday night, could one be close at hand? "Headin back down to Tampa today....excited to see all my teammates again!'' Barth tweeted.

-- Jason Peters Ruptures Achilles Again; Lost for 2012 Season --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CSNPhilly.com reports any hope that Eagles OT Jason Peters would return this season has almost certainly disappeared. According to a league source, Peters ruptured his Achilles tendon again after the Roll-A-Bout he was using malfunctioned. Peters was maneuvering in his kitchen when the device broke, and he fell on his face and re-injured the Achilles. The five-time Pro Bowler needed a second surgery, and his recovery was set back three weeks. He is going to sue the manufacturer of the device.

-- Going Against the Grain to Win $100,000! --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Sometimes Going Against the Grain can lead to huge rewards. That's just what David Gerczak learned when he listened to FFMastermind.com's Premium Fantasy Rankings late last year and it won him $100,000! Read what David has to say about his investment in our services by clicking HERE! Remember our motto, There are No Bragging Rights (or $100K prize) for Finishing Second!

-- Governor Signs Vikings Stadium Bill --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports Gov. Mark Dayton today signed off on a hard-fought agreement to build the Minnesota Vikings a $975 million stadium at the downtown Minneapolis site of the team’s current home, the Metrodome. Dayton, who championed the deal, signed the bill to mostly cheers, whistles and chants of ‘Skol Vikings,” the team’s fight song, during a Capitol ceremony attended by team owners Zygi and Mark Wilf, business and labor leaders, construction workers and fans of the purple and gold. “This is what makes Minnesota special,” Dayton said before signing the bill, noting that Minneapolis-St. Paul is the smallest of a dozen metropolitan areas with teams from all four major sports leagues.

-- Jamaal Jackson Not Yet Retired --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports free-agent C Jamaal Jackson gave New York Giants HC Tom Coughlin the strong impression that he would retire following last weekend’s unsuccessful tryout at Giants rookie minicamp. Either Jackson misspoke or Coughlin misheard, however, because the onetime Eagles starter isn’t ready to call it quits, officially, just yet. “I don’t know what I’m going to do yet, so it’s kind of funny to keep hearing that I decided to retire,” Jackson, 32, told Reuben Frank of CSN Philly. “… The truth is I don’t know. I haven’t filed any papers. I haven’t made the decision, and I won’t until the summer. I don’t know what I’m going to do yet.”

-- Raiders Make Player Moves --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The San Francisco Chronicle reports TE Andre Hardy is not going to be the next TE Antonio Gates, at least not for the Raiders. The Raiders waived the tight end on Monday, a month after they signed the basketball player out of Cal State Fullerton. The 6-foot-5, 250-pound Hardy averaged 8.0 points and 6.7 rebounds the past two seasons for the Titans, but didn’t play any football in college. GM Reggie McKenzie liked Hardy’s hands, but said that Hardy had a minor injury after the Raiders signed him. He was on the sideline for most of last weekend’s rookie mini-camp. The Raiders also cut QB Rhett Bomar on Monday. Earlier in the day, Oakland signed PK Eddy Carmona, DE Wayne Dorsey, TE Kyle Efaw, OT Kevin Haslam, CB LeQuan Lewis, FB Treshawn Robinson and WR Travionte Session. They had all tried out last weekend.

-- Jets Sign 6th-Rounder Terrance Ganaway --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the New York Jets signed former Baylor RB Terrance Ganaway, a sixth-round draft pick, the team announced Monday. It's a four-year deal for about $2.1 million.

-- Wayne Nunnely Retires; Broncos Name Jay Rodgers --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Scout.com reports Denver Broncos defensive line coach Wayne Nunnely has retired after 36 years. He is being replaced by Jay Rodgers.

-- Mark Ingram Rehab Watch --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Times-Picayune reports Saints interim HC Joe Vitt said that the team will have to back off RB Mark Ingram (knee/toe surgeries) at the start of training camp, but that he should have the green light for the start of the season.

-- Dashon Goldson Has No Plans to Sign Franchise Tender Anytime Soon --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CSNBayArea.com reports teammates of S Dashon Goldson who expected to see the free safety in the Bay Area this week will be disappointed. A source close to the situation said that the 49ers' franchise player has no immediate plans to visit the Bay Area or sign his tender. Goldson continues to work out in the Los Angeles area.

-- Three Eagles to Sit Out OTA's --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports Philadelphia Eagles HC Andy Reid said DT Mike Patterson (brain surgery), S Colt Anderson (knee) and LB Jamar Chaney (neck) won’t take part in any of the OTAs; Patterson and Chaney should be ready for training camp in July, but Anderson is a question mark.

-- Working Doubletime to Help You Win! --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Texans Sign Five Drafted Rookies --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports the Houston Texans have come to terms with five of their draft selections, according to the Houston Chronicle. Fourth-round picks WR Keyshawn Martin, OL Ben Jones and DT Jared Crick inked deals, while PK Randy Bullock (5th) and OT Nick Mondek (6th) also signed their first professional contracts. DE/OLB Whitney Mercilus (1st), WR DeVier Posey (3rd) and OL Brandon Brooks (3rd) remained unsigned.

-- Briggs: Forte Won't Hold Out into the Season --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Tribune reports there is no indication unsigned franchised Bears RB Matt Forte will show up soon and he could miss the team's upcoming minicamp. Could he miss regular season games? Brad Briggs of the Tribune says there is no chance that happens. For starters, negotiations on a deal cease in mid-July when without a long-term contract he will have to play under $7.7 million franchise tag. Consider what Patriots WR Wes Welker told WEEI Radio on missing games: “There are $9.5 million reasons why I wouldn't miss any regular-season games.” Same concept ($7.7 million) applies to Forte.

-- Wes Welker Won't Holdout into the Season --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports New England Patriots WR Wes Welker would love to work out an agreement on a long-term contract. But if he doesn’t, he says he’ll sign his franchise tender well before the start of the regular season. Welker said on WEEI that there’s no way his contract negotiations will drag out so long that he sits out any games. “No, not at all,” Welker said. “There’s nine and a half million reasons why I wouldn’t miss any regular season games, so you don’t have to worry about that.”

-- MJD to No-Show OTA's --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Florida Times-Union reports Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew will not be present when the team starts OTA's on Tuesday.

-- Jaguars Sign Brandon Coutu; Release One --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Scout.com reports the Jacksonville Jaguars haver signed free-agent PK Brandon Coutu and released rookie CB Dontrell Johnson.

-- Celek Will be Limited in Minicamp --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles HC Andy Reid said that TE Brent Celek (sports hernia and torn labrum in hip surgery) will have limited reps at the team's upcoming minicamp.

-- Undrafted Rookie WR Deonte Thompson Flashes During Ravens Rookie Minicamp --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Carroll County Times reports Ravens rookie WR Deonte Thompson, an undrafted free agent from the University of Florida who has run the 40-yard dash in 4.23 seconds, had a good practice, flashing speed and catching the ball fairly well. HC John Harbaugh was impressed in general with how the rookies performed. “The biggest takeaway probably is that this is a good group," he said. "This is a really good group of rookies. We like these guys. We’ve got some talented guys here. There will be a couple undrafted guys that have a shot to make the team. I wouldn’t bet against it. I think all the draft picks look really good.”

-- Ravens PK Watch --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Carroll County Times reports the football fell shy of its mark, a 60-yard boot from Ravens rookie PK Justin Tucker with another try from that distance sailing wide right. All of his four field goal attempts from inside 50 yards were accurate, though. The former University of Texas standout connected on a 55-yard field goal during the first day of a rookie minicamp, leaving a good impression overall on Baltimore Ravens HC John Harbaugh after trying out for the past three days. "He gets really good lift on the ball, very accurate," Harbaugh said. "He had a very good camp." Tucker is expected to remain with the Ravens and compete with veteran PK Billy Cundiff during training camp. "I'd say right now we have who we have, and we'll just play it by ear," Harbaugh said when asked if the team still plans to sign a veteran kicker now that PK Shayne Graham has joined the Houston Texans. "That's always unpredictable."

-- John Haskell Wins 2010 FFPC $100K Fantasy Championship --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Terrell Thomas 100% Healthy --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Daily News reports Giants CB Terrell Thomas (torn ACL) is feeling 100% healthy, and says he'll begin camp as a starting CB. "I am. I don't care what they say."

-- Broncos Sign One --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Denver Post reports the Broncos have signed undrafted free-agent Kansas LB Steven Johnson.

-- Kenny Britt Could Need A Second Minor Knee Surgery --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

TitanInsider reports the possibility still exists that Tennessee Titans WR Kenny Britt could need a second, but comparatively minor, knee procedure before he is fully ready to return to playing football this season. If Britt has to have the second operation, however, it should not be a major setback to his timetable to return from ACL and MCL surgery. Any sort of further work to the knee would likely be similar to the arthroscopic clean-up DE Derrick Morgan had last year in training camp. Titans HC Mike Munchak confirmed that while no second procedure for Britt is scheduled at this time, the possibility still is there for additional work simply due to the type of injury Britt suffered in his right knee, which underwent reconstructive surgery last October. Munchak said second procedures with that type of injury are fairly commonplace. “I think it always is (possible),” Munchak said. “I don't know if he will at some point, but I think that's something that's common with that injury. Derrick went through it last year. The good thing is that even if you do have it, it's not a huge setback. It's not something that sets you way back. But that is obviously part of the process, or could be, if that arises down the road.”

-- Bears Release Three --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Tribune reports the Bears have waived OT Levi Horn, OG Reggie Stephens and TE Andre Smith.

-- Nick Fairley's Arraignment on Pot Charge Postponed --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Detroit Free Press reports Lions DT Nick Fairley's arraignment on a misdemeanor marijuana-possession charge will be postponed to give Fairley's attorney more time to review the case, Mobile, Ala., assistant city attorney David Wible said. The Detroit Lions defensive tackle was scheduled to appear in a Mobile court today. A new date for his hearing was not immediately known. A first-round pick by the Lions last April, Fairley was arrested April 3, after police found a small amount of marijuana in his vehicle during a traffic stop.

-- Chris Canty Rehab Watch --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Daily News reports Giants DT Chris Canty (knee surgery), at his foundation's golf tourney, says his knee feels great after surgery and expects to be ready for start of training camp. Canty probably won't participate in the June minicamp, "and I probably won't lose any sleep over that," he said.

-- Jerome Simpson Vows He's a Good Person After Serving 15 Days in Jail --
Mon May 14, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports with his 15-day jail sentence for a drug-related charge now completed, WR Jerome Simpson is asking for forgiveness from Minnesota Vikings fans and vows he's a good person who just made a poor decision. "Things happen for a reason. The man upstairs wanted me to change. It sucked I had to go through it that way. It made me a stronger, better person," Simpson said in an interview with the Pioneer Press. Simpson pleaded guilty March 1 to a felony charge resulting from about 2 pounds of marijuana being shipped to his northern Kentucky home in September when he was a member of the Cincinnati Bengals. He also was sentenced to three years' probation. "Everybody makes mistakes. I just want people to kind of forgive me," Simpson told the newspaper. He will serve a three-game suspension at the start of the 2012 season as a result of the incident. He signed a one-year contract with the Vikings this offseason as a free agent. "Those 15 days I spent in jail, it was terrible. It sucked," Simpson told the newspaper. "Any kids out there, that's a place you don't want to be. Somebody tells you when to wake up, when to make your bed, when to take a shower, when you can have a snack. That's an obstacle you don't want to face. I want all kids to learn not to go down that path and to learn from me."

-- Cavanaugh: Sanchez Needs to Cut Down on Poor Decisions --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports when it comes to the flaws of New York Jets starting QB Mark Sanchez, the words are there. Most recently, they came from his position coach, Matt Cavanaugh. “There were turnovers that were not his fault that were credited to him,” Cavanaugh told the New York Daily News. “But there were enough that playing that position he needs to cut some of those down. Most of them came from just poor decision-making.” The goal, then, is to get Sanchez to be more careful with the ball. “I spent a lot of time with him talking about ‘Let’s get focused on managing the game,’” Cavanaugh said. “Taking the big plays when they’re there (and) understanding that . . . even though it’s drawn up to be a touchdown, not every play has to be a touchdown. Not every play has to be a completion. Sometimes throwing it away is a good thing. Sometimes taking a sack is better than throwing an interception.”

-- Why Subscribe to FFMastermind.com? --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Tim Hightower Tweets He's Back with the Redskins --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Free-agent RB Tim Hightower has tweeted that he's re-signed with the Washington Redskins.

-- Pete Carroll: Russell Wilson Will Compete to Start --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Seattle Times reports Seattle Seahawks rookie QB Russell Wilson will be part of the competition to become Seattle's starting quarterback this fall, HC Pete Carroll said Sunday as the team concluded a three-day minicamp for rookies. "He showed us enough," Carroll said. "He's in the competition." Wilson was the team's third-round pick, and he will join a competition that already included free-agent addition QB Matt Flynn and incumbent starter QB Tarvaris Jackson. Russell was chosen in the third round by Seattle with the No. 75 overall pick. It was the highest pick the franchise has used on a quarterback since 1993. Wilson was very impressive on Friday when the Seahawks began the minicamp, taking every repetition during the 11-on-11 drills. He was intercepted on several deep passes during Saturday's practice, but after concluding the workouts on Sunday, Carroll raved about his readiness. "He did an excellent job of demonstrating that he prepared for this," Carroll said. The coach estimated Wilson was on the field for 500 snaps all told and threw close to 400 passes. Carroll estimated there was only one time he stumbled on the verbiage of calling a play, demonstrating Wilson's familiarity with a West Coast offense. Wilson ran that system first at North Carolina State and later at Wisconsin. Carroll did not provide a timeline for making a decision for a starting quarterback nor did he sketch out the framework for structuring the competition. Previously, he has said that Flynn and Jackson would split time with the first-unit offense with Jackson getting the first snap, something he'd earned as last year's starter. QB Josh Portis -- an undrafetd rookie last year -- is also on the roster, and is also a player the Seahawks hope progresses from the raw promise he showed a year ago.

-- Seahawks Sign 4th-Rounder Robert Turbin --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Seattle Seahawks signed 4th-round draft pick RB Robert Turbin to a four-year contract.

-- Falcons Sign Three More Drafted Rookies --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Falcons official website reports the Falcons today announced that they have signed three more members of their 2012 Rookie Club, including Wisconsin FB Bradie Ewing, Mississippi State S Charles Mitchell and South Carolina DT Travian Robertson.

-- LeSean McCoy Contract Talks Watch --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports as of last week, negotiations regarding a new ddeal for Eagles RB LeSean McCoy were continuing and "still very productive," as one source close to the situation described dialogue between the front office and McCoy's agent, Drew Rosenhaus. "No one is frustrated at this point," the source said. "It's not like either side has stomped away upset. But there's a ways to go." The two sides have been talking on and off since the season ended in January, with incremental movement toward an agreement.

-- Bengals Rookie Minicamp Concludes --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports the Bengals completed their rookie minicamp on Sunday inside rain drenched Paul Brown Stadium with a two-hour workout that mostly dealt with red zone and special teams work. After the practice, HC Marvin Lewis was happy with what he saw the past three days. “I think to conclude things it was a very productive five workouts and I got a great feel for the guys we drafted and the extra college free agents we signed. I think it has been a good kickoff to things,” Lewis said. On other minicamp topics that Lewis expounded on: On QB Tony Pike: “I thought Tony progressed well through the weekend. He’s coming back from the surgery and gaining process in the arm. His ability to handle football and where the ball should go stands out. He’s got a good disposition.” On the receivers: “It thought (Mohamed) Sanu was everything we expected him to be. He’s going to come in here and play as a rookie and push to start and play time. Marvin (Jones) to me really had a great five practices. His ability to be a returner will stand out. He really tracks the ball well. You see the speed compared to the size. Taveon (Rogers) and Kashif (Moore) have the speed. Justin (Hilton) is going to be able to compete and do good things in training camp. All five practices as well as the two first-year guys (Armon Binns and Vidal Hazelton) did a good job. I’m excited about it. These guys are going to compete for playing time and spots and make us better. On CB Dre Kirkpatrick: “I thought Dre did a good job. There’s no other experience like experience. So literally to take every snap this entire weekend was great. If the period was 10 plays, he took only two off so he got eight out of every 10 plays. There’s no more value than that experience and video that he is going to be able to sit down and watch it with Mike (Zimmer), Mark (Carrier) and Hue (Jackson) and really take a look at himself and see the progress he’s made and see the little things we’re trying to get him to change in his play and stature and stance. He will be able to take it on to the OTAs and build from that.” As far as if any tryout guys will make the roster, those decisions will not be finalized until later in the week. Two guys that Lewis did single out though were Kansas State LB Emmanuel Lamur and Morgan State FB Jourdan Brooks.

-- Falcons to Sign 2nd-Rounder Peter Konz --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Scout.com reports the Atlanta Falcons have agreed to a four-year, $3.588 million contract with 2nd-round draft pick C Peter Konz that includes a $1.05 million signing bonus, according to a league source.

-- Wilf Mum on Moving Vikings If Stadium Bill Had Not Passed --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The National Football Post reports the Wilf family could make a bid next year to hold the 2017 Super Bowl in their new stadium in Minneapolis. But Zygi Wilf wouldn’t say if he would have sold the team or moved the franchise had state lawmakers not signed off on a nearly $1 billion package for the new stadium near the Metrodome. “I don't like Monday morning quarterbacking. Since the question is moot, I have no thoughts about it," Wilf said, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. The family also wouldn’t say how much of the team’s $477 million commitment to the project would come from their personal finances. It’s expected the NFL is kicking in some money. “I can't say for sure,” Zygi Wilf said. “I don't really get into those numbers.”

-- 2012 EarlyBird Premium Rates Continue! --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Derrick Mason Wants to Retire a Raven --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The National Football Post reports free-agent WR Derrick Mason says he wants to officially retire as a Baltimore Raven. Mason, who hung it up last season after spending time with the Jets and Texans, chose his six seasons in Baltimore over the seven years he spent with the Tennessee Titans franchise, which selected him in the fourth round of the 1997 draft. “I would love to retire as a Raven,” Mason told the Baltimore Sun. “Tennessee gave me an opportunity — and I will always be grateful for that — to actually live out one of my dreams and play this game and play at a high level. But once I got to Baltimore, that’s when I really started to grow as a player, that’s when I really started to understand what this game was about, why I was I was playing it. That’s why I want to retire as a Raven, because I had some great, great memories there and I met a lot of great people. That’s my football family.” Once Mason turns in his retirement paperwork, he can then sign a one-day contract with the Ravens to retire as a member of that team.

-- Vince Young Impressed Bills With His Knowledge --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The National Football Post reports one of the reasons the Buffalo Bills were sold on QB Vince Young is they took the unusual step of putting him on the board for a couple of hours when he visited their facility. It is common for teams to talk schemes with rookies, but less common for them to do it with veterans. Given Young’s history, it was a smart move by HC Chan Gailey. And Young’s knowledge was sufficient enough for the Bills to take a chance on him.

-- James Carpenter Might Not Play in 2012 --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The National Football Post reports a decent chance exists that Seahawks’ 2011 first round pick OT James Carpenter will not play in 2012 because his knee was torn up so severely last season. The Seahawks have protected themselves at the right tackle position by re-signing OT Breno Giacomini and OT Paul McQuistan and adding free agent OT Frank Omiyale. Carpenter has had a hard time mentally with the recovery process, but had a recent spurt in which he made some good progress.

-- Kevin Vickerson Accepts Paycut; Ty Warren Refuses & Could be Cut --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Denver Post reports in recent days, the Broncos approached veteran DT Kevin Vickerson and DT Ty Warren about a reduction to their 2012 salaries. Vickerson accepted a cut from a $2.25 million to $1.2 million, according to his contract filed with the league office and NFL players association. The alternative may have been a financial-related release. Warren is scheduled to make $4 million this year but after he missed the past two full seasons because of injuries, the Broncos would like him back with a base salary in the $1 million to $1.5 million range. Warren, 31, has not been attending the Broncos' offseason conditioning and workout program the past two weeks. The offseason workouts are voluntary so Warren is not officially considered a holdout. But players are strongly encouraged to participate. The salary cut proposals were hardly a surprise given Warren and Vickerson each suffered season-ending injuries last season and after the Broncos added depth at their position with the free-agent signing of DT Justin Bannan and the selection of DT Derek Wolfe with their first pick in the draft. As a general rule, "starter money" begins at $2 million and Vickerson, who received a two-year, $4.75 million extension last season, is expected to fill a rotational role this season. He started the first games last year but was then placed on season-ending injured reserve with an ankle injury. He is versatile enough to play both the defensive tackle position over center, and gap spot between guard and offensive tackle. Warren would be the odds-on favorite to start at the Broncos' "nose" tackle position providing he can stay healthy. But his health is clearly an issue. After missing the entire 2010 season with the New England Patriots following hip surgery, Warren joined RB Willis McGahee as the Broncos' top free-agent signings last season. Warren received a two-year, $8 million contract that paid him $4 million last year even though he suffered torn triceps during training camp and missed the entire 2011 season. There aren't many, if any examples of a defensive lineman missing two full seasons and coming back in his 30s to have a productive season.

-- Nick Foles Has Up & Down Day at Eagles Minicamp --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles rookie QB Nick Foles took the vast majority of snaps as rookie minicamp opened, and received a steady stream of instructions, corrections, and advice. A third-round pick from Arizona, Foles spent his first two NFL practices working on the basics: dropping back, his footwork, and going through reads on the handful of plays the team ran this early in the year. "They've been coaching me a lot already today. I'm just taking a lot in and listening to what they're telling me, doing my best to do it on the field and play fast, and play the way they want me to play," Foles said. Foles came from a college offense that relied heavily on the shotgun formation, which removed many of the nuances he will need in the NFL. He will have to work on the proper footwork as he pulls back from under center and on planting and throwing when he gets to the end of his drop. He will have to make more complicated reads and even work on taking a snap and turning correctly to make a strong hand-off, NFL Films analyst Greg Cosell said. "It's the little details that make the great players different from just the good players, so I'm just trying to get every little detail down and learn from some of the best coaches ever to coach this game," Foles said. "You can always get better at the footwork, the reads, just the little things you do with the drops, your arm placement, when you step up in the pocket - just the minor details." Instead of trying to absorb all of his first NFL playbook, Foles tried to break each play into pieces, learning it bit by bit. Listed at 6-foot-6 and 243 pounds, Foles, 23, moved well in the pocket for one day at least - easing concern about his fluidity. (Of course, it helps that he wasn't facing a live pass rush.) As might be expected, there were ups and downs on his first day. Some wobbly early passes were replaced later with tight spirals and some deep balls, though it bears repeating that he was working against fellow rookies with no real rush in his face. He threw at least two interceptions while taking on a heavy workload. Foles almost certainly will be the Eagles' third quarterback this year while QB Mike Kafka and QB Trent Edwards compete for the backup job, but the nature of his position dictates that the rookie will face far more scrutiny than any other third-string player. The Eagles hope to develop Foles into a quarterback who can help or become a trade chip. By using an early pick on him, the Eagles passed on trying to draft someone who could help immediately, but a capable quarterback is one of the most valuable assets in the NFL.

-- Dwayne Jarrett Heads to the CFL --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports former Panthers WR Dwayne Jarrett has signed with the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders. “He was hoping for an opportunity last year and he didn’t get one,” Roughriders assistant GM Jeremy O’Day said Friday. “We had to go through a bit of a waiting period while he worked out with some NFL teams. Then he decided to take the opportunity. What’s nice about Dwayne is he’s only 25. He’s not one of those guys who is pushing 30. We still think he has an upside and he’s a big target.”

-- Devin Hester's Many Roles --
Sun May 13, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Chicago Bears OC Mike Tice said he should be fired if he doesn’t figure out a way to get WR Devin Hester involved in the offense and Michael C. Wright of ESPNChicago.com reported that Hester is currently slated to start opposite WR Brandon Marshall at receiver with rookie WR Alshon Jeffrey in the slot. He’s also got a certain flair for the punt return game, all of which adds up to a lot of snaps for Hester. When the Bears signed WR Eric Weems this offseason, it gave them another experienced kickoff returner. Weems’ presence and the talk of an increased offensive role made some think that Hester’s role on kickoff returns would decrease. Special teams coach Dave Toub said that’s not the case. “Hester is our punt returner and he is our No. 1 kickoff returner,” Toub said, via Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune. “He is still our No. 1 kickoff returner. … We can put (Weems and Hester) back there and if they kick away from Devin, they’ll kick it to Weems and we’ll be in good shape.”

-- Run DMC Cutting at Full Speed --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The San Francisco Chronicle reports Oakland Raiders running backs coach Kelly Skipper had some encouraging words to say about RB Darren McFadden on Saturday. McFadden was on pace for a 1,600-yard season last year before a Week 7 mid-foot sprain, later called a Lisfranc injury, pulled the plug on that. “The thing about Darren is he didn’t have any major surgeries, so he’s able to come back here healthy and he’s playing at a high level right now and it’s offseason,” Skipper said. “So, that’s a good thing. … He’s out here. You would never know he got hurt. He’s making cuts at full speed, everything. There’s no problem with that.

-- A Magic Act in 2010 --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Trent Richardson Impressive --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Cleveland Browns rookie RB Trent Richardson is an amazing physical specimen. Only 5-9 and a quarter, his 228 pounds are distributed high and low. His upper body is thick and wide, his shoulders and neck layered in muscle. His arms are pythons. His lower body is rooted in a pair of calves the size of cantaloupes. The biggest calves I’ve seen on a Cleveland Brown belonged to Frank Minnifield. Richardson’s are larger. “He might be the strongest human being on the planet,” ESPN’s Jon Gruden said before the draft. This is a man who has got to be hard to tackle. “Wow!” HC Pat Shurmur said when asked to comment on Richardson’s physique. “He’s a very powerful man. He’s powerfully built. Don’t let the 5-9 fool you. He’s almost 230 pounds. That’s a lot of muscle packed into that body. I just think he’s got a very powerful build, much like we thought, and it shows up on the field.” “I think everybody is amazed (by Richardson’s physique),” said running back coach Gary Brown. Brown, of course, felt the brunt of the compact, explosive power of Richardson’s frame when he was knocked off his feet at the Alabama pro day. The 21-second video of Richardson’s two-handed push of Brown holding a blocking bag is approaching 327,000 hits on YouTube. “He lifted me off my feet. I just knew at that point that kid is a powerful, powerful young man,” Brown said. “All my brothers are over six feet tall,” Richardson said after his third rookie camp practice. “I have one who’s 6-6.We were all strong. I’m the runt of the litter.”

-- Reid Speaks on McCoy's Contract Situation --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles HC Andy Reid commented on the fact that RB LeSean McCoy wants a new deal. “I know Howie and Drew have a good relationship, so they’re working through things and I think something positive will come out of that,” Reid said, referring to GM Howie Roseman and McCoy agent Drew Rosenhaus. But does a deal have to get done before camp? “You want to make it right, so that’s the primary thing," Reid said. "I don't think you worry about as much the other things, you just want to make it right so it’s great for the player, it’s good for the team, so that's where the negotiations come in and the ability to work together come in." In a separate interview later Friday WR DeSean Jackson said he has advised McCoy to avoid the path he took – holding out. He said he hopes McCoy attends offseason practices that begin May 22 and the start of training camp. “I think it would be in his best interest to come. In my eyes when I didn’t come I thought it hurt me,” Jackson said.

-- Reid Speaks on Celek's Health --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles HC Andy Reid gave an optimistic, though lightly detailed on his starting tight end after TE Brent Celek had January surgeries to repair a sports hernia and torn labrum in his hip: “He’s actually doing very well,” Reid said. Celek has been on the field for some drills, and will participate in at least some of the OTAs that begin May 22, Reid said. “We’ll take it easy with him and see how he does. Asked if Celek could participate in full, Reid said, “we’ll just see how he does,” but said he wasn’t worried about the tight being ready for the start of the season.

-- Rams Won't Have a Defensive Coordinator in 2012 --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports after Saturday’s rookie minicamp practice, St. Louis Rams Jeff Fisher confirmed that there won’t be a defensive coordinator in 2012. “It’s really no different than it was when this thing went down,” Fisher said, via comments distributed by the team. “It’s going to be a collective, collaborative effort.” The coaching staff has three former NFL defensive coordinators: Fisher, assistant HC Dave McGinnis, and defensive backs coach Chuck Cecil.

-- DeSean Jackson Pulled Over; Treated Rudely by Police --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports Philadelphia Eagles WR DeSean Jackson had an interesting morning. While driving to an event for the DeSean Jackson Foundation for Pediatric Cancer, Jackson was pulled over by a member of the Pennsylvania State Police, according to TMZ. Per the report, the trooper stopped Jackson for having tinted windows. The trooper also reportedly suspected Jackson of being drunk. At 9:00 a.m. TMZ further reports that the trooper seemed to recognize Jackson, and that the trooper “began acting very rudely” toward him. A witness tells TMZ that the trooper “yelled” at Jackson the entire time, but that Jackson “never gave the trooper an attitude and followed his instructions at all times.” Jackson was released without a ticket after passing a field sobriety test.

-- Jamaal Jackson Retires from the NFL --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Daily News reports former Eagles C Jamaal Jackson retired from the NFL after one day as a tryout at Giants rookie minicamp. HC Tom Coughlin on Jackson's retirement: "He came in and he was very nice. He just said, 'Coach, I just don't feel like my heart's in it.'"

-- Brian Quick Impresses in Rams First Day of Rookie Minicamp --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports St. Louis Rams rookie WR Brian Quick impressive in the first day of rookie minicamp. Quick is tall. The Appalachian State product is listed at 6-foot-3, but he looks bigger. And at 220, he’s quite the beast. The Rams loved him, even though most of us were shocked by the pick. QB Sam Bradford is tall, and Quick is tall. That is a high-wire connection in the making. Anyway, Quick moves like a small guy, and he really can catch it. He didn't drop one all day. He gets in an out of his breaks well, he’s nimble and he looks like a good athlete. Very solid. “Same thing we saw from Brian in the workout,” HC Jeff Fisher said.

-- Torrey Smith 100% Healthy --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

Scout.com reports Baltimore Ravens WR Torrey Smith said he is 100% recovered from sports hernia surgery with no restrictions.

-- Sign Up for Free Fantasy Newsletters! --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

-- Bears WR Watch --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Chicago Bears rookie WR Alshon Jeffery will play the “Z” receiver spot in the slot. New acquisition WR Brandon Marshall and veteran WR Devin Hester will play on the outside, with the latter playing a much more significant role in 2012 than in years past on offense because of the club’s plans to creatively deploy him in a variety of places. One NFL source said the Bears’ 2012 passing game will essentially be the 2008 passing offense of the Denver Broncos, a system well known by new quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates, both Marshall and QB Jay Cutler, who the source said, “really likes Hester in the new system.”

-- Raiders Unlikely to Sign Cedric Benson --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Contra Costa Times reports it's unlikely that the Raiders will sign free-agent RB Cedric Benson.

-- Rueben Randle Impressive in First Giants Rookie Minicamp --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Ledger reports Giants rookie WR Rueben Randle was singled out by HC Tom Coughlin as a player who looked particularly impressive on the practice field. “I was very impressed by Randle out on the field this morning,” Coughlin said after the team’s first rookie minicamp practice.

-- Saints Players Grievance Hearing to he Heard on May 16th & 30th --
Sat May 12, 2012 --from FFMastermind.com

NBC Sports reports lawyer Peter Ginsberg, who represents New Orleans Saints LB Jonathan Vilma, said that the two grievances filed earlier this month will be heard on May 16 and May 30. The first hearing will focus on the argument that the new CBA prevents the NFL from taking action of any kind against players for conduct occurring before August 4, 2011, along with the question of whether the appeals should be heard not by Commissioner Roger Goodell but by Ted Cottrell or Art Shell, jointly hired and paid by the league and the NFLPA to resolve appeals for on-field discipline. The May 30 hearing centers on the contention that, to the extent the discipline arises from extra money paid to players in violation of the salary cap, the matter should be resolved via Special Master Stephen Burbank. Ginsberg also said that the league still has not given him or the NFLPA evidence proving that the players funded or received payments from a bounty program, and he confirmed that other legal proceedings could be utilized. The ultimate goal is to find a forum that will compel the NFL to share the evidence it has gathered regarding the question of whether the players are guilty, or innocent.

Team Quick Bits

NFL News

AFC East
Buffalo
Miami
New England
NY Jets

NFC East
Dallas
NY Giants
Philadelphia
Washington

AFC North
Baltimore
Cincinnati
Cleveland
Pittsburgh

NFC North
Chicago
Detroit
Green Bay
Minnesota

AFC South
Houston
Indianapolis
Jacksonville
Tennessee

NFC South
Atlanta
Carolina
New Orleans
Tampa Bay

AFC West
Denver
Kansas City
Oakland
San Diego

NFC West
Arizona
San Francisco
Seattle
St. Louis

Mastermind Moment

May Short-Term/Long-Term Offensive Overall & Positional Rookie Rankings
Saturday, May 12th, 2012
The following is a portion of John Holler's May rookie premium feature. Enjoy. Holler: It’s difficult to assess how a rookie will blend in with an NFL team. Some players

Read the Full Mastermind Moment

Featured Items

Click here for summary of all Featured Items

Your Ad Here