NFL Quick Bits - NFL Breaking News and Fantasy Football Updates

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Last Updated: Thu Sep 2, 2010, 10:13 AM PT

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-- What the Chargers Want for Vincent Jackson --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

Yahoo Sports! reports sources say that San Diego Chargers GM A.J. Smith has been asking for a second-round pick in 2011 and a third-round pick in 2012 in return for holdout restricted free-agent WR Vincent Jackson.

-- Kris Brown has Plantar Fasciitis --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Chronicle reports Texans PK Kris Brown wore a boot around the locker room this week because he's suffering from plantar fasciitis. He's kicked with it before. "Kris kicked (against Dallas) through his foot bothering him a little bit, so we're getting him rested," HC Gary Kubiak said about the boot. "He's kicked with it before."

-- The Perfect Draft: 2-QB Starter PPR 12-Team Leagues! --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

9/1/2010 - You asked for it, you got it! A premium subscriber wanted Dr. Gil Brovar to expand upon his famous 2-QB starter league draft strategies article by offering the Perfect Draft for just such a league. Of course, Brovar complies... Click HERE to Check Out The Perfect Draft: 2-QB Starter PPR 12-Team Leagues!

-- Teams Eyeing a Trade for Matt Leinart --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Buffalo Bills, Oakland Raiders and New York Giants have had discussions about trading for Arizona Cardinals QB Matt Leinart, league sources tell ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. Leinart and the Cardinals are tiring of each other and as each day passes, many believe a trade of Leinart, who is unhappy that he's not starting, is more and more likely with roster moves coming this weekend, sources said. And an executive for an unidentified team told ESPN.com's Mike Sando that the Cardinals were calling around, trying to gauge the market for Leinart.

-- Draft Guide Mastermind Picks Cool & Not Cool Lists Updated! --
Tue Aug 31, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

8/31/2010 - It's been two months since FFMastermind.com's Michael Nazarek first released his annual COOL and NOT COOL lists and a lot has happened. As a result, the time has come to update these lists and make additions and subtractions for fantasy players to consider. Michael Nazarek makes comments on every player listed, and adds four new names to the lists and removes a few names covering the QB, RB, WR, and TE positions... Click HERE to Check Out the Cool & Not Cool Updated Player Lists

-- The 2010 Mastermind Draft Plan UPDATED! --
Mon Aug 30, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

Premium Draft Guide subscribers take note. FFMastermind.com's Michael Nazarek offers an UPDATE to the official 2010 Mastermind Draft Plan for your viewing pleasure. Do you want to know specifically what position and player to target in your draft depending upon scoring rules and draft location? Nazarek gives you all the UPDATED details in this special plan. Best of all, he will be updating it throughout the summer! Check it out... Read Full Article

-- Pre-Season Draft Guide Version VII Released! --
Thu Aug 26, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

8/27/2010 - FFMastermind.com would like to inform everyone that Version VII of our Pre-Season Draft Guide has been released! This week, we've UPDATED our Creepers Feature, added a Perfect Draft - 10-Teams PPR, our Comprehensive 32-Team Injury Watch, and UPDATED the Master’s List Cheatsheets, our PDF Cheatsheets, ADP Charts, IDP Sleepers, Creepers, & Impact Rookies and the MCP Board in this guide making it currently 615 pages! Now is the time to Subscribe to our Pre-Season Draft Guide so you can check out why they call us The Definitive Fantasy Information Service! Order Now!

-- PPR Rankings & Game Matchup Analysis Added to Weekly Newsletter! --
Fri May 21, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

You asked for it, you got it! Many fantasy leagues have adopted Points-Per-Reception rules (PPR), so each week in the newsletter you'll not only see a non-PPR set, but also a special PPR set too! And both will be updated on Saturday! Furthermore, we have replaced the Team Capsules on Thursday night's release with Game Matchup Analysis for every game of the coming weekend! Please click HERE to view a sample from last season and from the upcoming 2010 week #1 NFL schedule for more details. These Game Matchups include The Big Picture, Emotional Edges, and Fantasy Reaches in addition to other key fantasy tips.

Last Updated: Thu Sep 2, 2010, 10:13 AM PT

-- Bengals Host Pat Watkins --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports free agent S Pat Watkins visited the Cincinnati Bengals Wednesday. He was recently released by the Dallas Cowboys.

-- Cowboys Still Shopping Crayton --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports the Dallas Cowboys are still exploring the trade market for WR Patrick Crayton. If they can’t make a deal, there’s a decent chance that they’ll cut a guy who is arguably their most reliable receiver.

-- Jets Downplaying Antonio Cromartie's Hip Injury --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Post reports HC Rex Ryan and the Jets continue to downplay an apparent flare-up in CB Antonio Cromartie's right hip that kept the cornerback out of a handful of snaps in Tuesday's practice. It's the same hip Cromartie fractured two years ago, which makes the recurrence a definite red flag, but Ryan said there is nothing to worry about and labeled it "a little hip thing."

-- Santonio Holmes Not Banned from Facility during Suspension --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Post reports it turns out WR Santonio Holmes will not be banned from the Jets' facility during his drug suspension, after all. In what will qualify as news to coach Rex Ryan and at least several other Jets officials, the NFL confirmed last night that Holmes can work out at the club's Florham Park headquarters and even attend team meetings during the four-game league ban that begins with Week 1. The only thing Holmes can't do during that time is practice with the Jets.

-- Leigh Bodden Set to Surgery Today --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Boston Globe reports Patriots CB Leigh Bodden went on injured reserve on Tuesday night, and today the road to recovery for the 2011 season begins. The 28-year-old tweeted early this morning: "Up early in the morning for Surgery Hungry as hełł I couldn't eat after midnight.... I knew I should have set the alarm and ate at 11:50." Which is to say today is the day he's going into get his torn rotator cuff repaired.

-- Super Bowl Package: The Absolute Best Deal! --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

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-- Correll Buckhalter Expected to Play Tonight --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Denver Post reports Broncos RB Correll Buckhalter (upper back) is expected to put on pads for a few plays in the preseason finale tonight against the Minnesota Vikings at the Mall of America Field.

-- Arian Foster Impressing --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Chronicle reports the Texans feel better about their running game because RB Arian Foster averaged six yards a carry in preseason. Foster, who played at Tennessee, was an undrafted free agent. GM Rick Smith gave Foster a two-year contract to keep him away from the Saints and Jets, among other teams. "We saw a lot of talent, but there were obviously some knocks to keep him from being drafted," HC Gary Kubiak said. "I don't remember as much injuries as they were having a bad year at Tennessee. "We took a chance on him, and he's kind of grown up. The talent's there. Hopefully, he'll keep it going."

-- Colts Injury Update --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Indianapolis Star reports three weeks after arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, Colts C Jeff Saturday has returned to practice with an eye on the Sept. 12 regular-season opener at Houston. "Obviously, my hope would be Week 1," Saturday said after Wednesday's practice. "That's always been a goal I've had. "But I'm definitely not in a position that I can say that's for sure. I'm working toward it." Saturday, a four-time Pro Bowl selection who has started 156 regular-season games since 1999, went through one-on-one work Tuesday, then delivered some center snaps Wednesday. He's taking it slowly after having his knee 'scoped Aug. 10. HC Jim Caldwell said OT Charlie Johnson, who hasn't practiced since injuring a foot Aug. 6, is "improving rapidly" as well. Returning for Wednesday's practice were CB Jerraud Powers (foot), S Bob Sanders (rest) and OT Adam Terry (leg). Among those sitting out Wednesday's workout were OT Tony Ugoh (toe), OT Charlie Johnson (foot), rookie TE Brody Eldridge (undisclosed), DT Antonio Johnson (groin) and LB Cody Glenn (undisclosed). OT Charlie Johnson (foot) is hopeful of resuming practice soon. “He is improving and coming along," said Caldwell. "His rehab is going well at this stage.”

-- Broncos Injury Update --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Denver Post reports Broncos HC Josh McDaniels said he hopes to play all healthy players some, so QB Kyle Orton should get a handful of snaps. OT Ryan Clady, who has returned to practice after offseason knee surgery, is expected to play at least some snaps against the Vikings, and RB Knowshon Moreno (hamstring) said Tuesday he hopes to play some as well.

-- Chiefs Injury Update --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports the Kansas City Chiefs will go without about a half-dozen players in the preseason final against Green Bay: OLB Tamba Hali (ankle), ORT Ryan O’Callaghan (groin), LB Cameron Sheffield (neck), CB Maurice Leggett (concussion), OG Darryl Harris (knee) and WR Chris Chambers (unknown)

-- Thomas Howard on the Bubble? --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports Oakland Raiders LB Thomas Howard lost his starting job and isn’t a lock to make the 53-man roster, but he’s staying positive. “It’s just a blessing to be out here and playing this game we all love,” Howard said. “People forget that it’s an opportunity … to go out and play.”

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Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

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-- Chargers Injury Update --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The North County Times reports Chargers OLB Shawne Merriman (Achilles' tendon), DL Travis Johnson (ankle) and TE Richie Brockel (shoulder) did not practice on Wednesday. OLT Brandyn Dombrowski (back) returned to practice after taking Tuesday off. The starters will take roughly 12-15 snaps against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday before ceding to third-string players. Reserves who are assured of a roster spot will also play sparingly in the preseason finale.

-- 49ers Injury Update --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports San Francisco 49ers whom didn't practice Wednesday were C Eric Heitmann (leg), WR Kyle Williams (toe), CB Will James (ankle), RB Brian Westbrook (hamstring) and LB Ahmad Brooks (kidney). HC Mike Singletary said that the argument between WR Michael Crabtree and TE Vernon Davis was about a "misunderstanding," and that "both players were wrong. Singletary said that QB Alex Smith, RB Frank Gore, RB Brian Westbrook (hamstring) and TE Vernon Davis (knee) will not play Thursday versus San Diego. He is undecided about WR Michael Crabtree (neck) or the other starters.

-- Leinart to Play Tonight --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports Arizona Cardinals HC Ken Whisenhunt said he still plans to play QB Matt Leinart Thursday against the Redskins in spite of media reports that the team is trying to trade Leinart.

-- Bucs' Assistent Coach Arrested --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The St. Petersburg Times reports an assistant coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is accused of driving under the influence. Chris George Mosley, 32, was arrested about 11:40 p.m. Tuesday near S Moody Avenue and W Swann Avenue, police said. He had a blood-alcohol level ranging from 0.137 to 0.143, police said. The point at which impairment is presumed in Florida is 0.08. Mosley is in his second season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and first as defensive assistant coach, according to the team's website. He was an assistant offensive line coach last season. He was released from the Hillsborough County Jail on $500 bail Wednesday morning.

-- Bucs Injury Update --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Josh Freeman (fractured right thumb), OG Davin Joseph (hip), S Sabby Piscitelli (concussion) and WR Maurice Stovall (ankle sprain) will not play Thursday in Houston. All, however, are expected to be ready for the season opener against Cleveland.

-- Michael Clayton on the Bubble? --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Michael Clayton -- a first-round pick in 2004, who signed a contract in 2009 that included $10 million guaranteed -- may need to have a good game Thursday to help keep his spot on the team. Clayton did not play at all Saturday against Jacksonville.

-- Worth The Price in Gold --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

FFMastermind.com Super Bowl premium package subscriber Rob Williams shares his thoughts on why our premium services are Worth The Price in Gold. Patrons eyeing a subscription should check out what Rob has to say!

-- Panthers Injury Update --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports Carolina Panthers John Fox said WR Steve Smith (arm) and RB Jonathan Stewart are game-time decisions for Thursday at Pittsburgh. Fox said the plan is to play the starters in the first quarter Thursday against the Steelers, but he quickly added that could change. By rule, the Panthers could wait until the Monday after the 12th week of the season to activate LB Thomas Davis (knee) from the PUP list.

-- Vikings Close Practice Wednesday --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports the Minnesota Vikings finished preparing for their final preseason game against Denver with a brief walk-through Wednesday that was closed to the media.

-- Teams Eyeing Packers' Breno Giacomini --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports the Green Bay Packers traded one former tight end turned tackle at the final cut last year and probably will have chances to deal another Saturday. A source said several teams are interested in OT Breno Giacomini, one of four veteran offensive linemen the Packers might be considering releasing on the roster reduction. All teams must reach the 53-man limit by 3 p.m. Saturday. The Packers have 75 players on the roster. Giacomini, a fifth-round draft choice in 2008, played tight end early in his career at Louisville just as OT Tony Moll, a fifth-round pick in 2006, did at Nevada. The Packers shipped Moll to Baltimore Sept. 5 for safety Derrick Martin. "We don't even joke around about that stuff," C Jason Spitz said. "Obviously, we all want to be here. We're all working toward that. But it won't work out that way."

-- Bears Backup QB Watch --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Tribune reports Bears QB Jay Cutler won't play in tonight's preseason finale. Allowing QB Todd Collins to run the first-team offense should provide OC Mike Martz with a glimpse of what to expect if Cutler is injured. "Yeah, right now he is (the backup), absolutely,'' Martz said when asked about Collins Tuesday. "I don't think Caleb (Hanie) is ready. We'll see how it goes, but that's what we brought (Collins) in for.'' Hanie returned to practice this week in a limited role after spraining the AC joint in his throwing shoulder against the Chargers Aug. 14. And rookie QB Dan LeFevour, who looked sharp at times in last Saturday's 14-9 loss to the Cardinals, is sure to get his snaps against the Browns. LeFevour could land on the eight-man practice squad Sunday.

-- Devin Thomas Needs to Impress --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Washington Redskins official website reports WR Devin Thomas finds himself in the familiar position of having to prove himself again. The third-year wide receiver did not play a down on offense in the Redskins’ preseason game against the New York Jets last week. Coaches said they wanted to get other wide receivers more involved in the offense. Still, it was surprising that Thomas – thought to be a key offensive contributor heading into training camp – would be sidelined. It’s not like Thomas was invisible in the Redskins’ first two preseason games. He has four catches for 78 yards, including a 44-yard touchdown catch. With young WR Anthony Armstrong and WR Terrence Austin coming on, Thomas may need a strong game just to secure a roster spot.

-- David Buehler Watch --
Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Telegram reports all indications are that PK David Buehler will be the Cowboys's primary place-kicker. He has made 6 of 7 field goals in the preseason. If given the chance, he needs to be perfect tonight. The Cowboys might opt for a veteran if he's shaky.

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Thu Sep 2, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

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-- NFL Moving Umpires to Old Position --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports the NFL will move umpires back to their old spots during the final five minutes of Thursday's preseason games. Previously they were in the old spot for only the final two minutes of each half. NFL spokesman Corry Rush confirmed the adjustment Wednesday. League officials decided to move umpires from the old spot, in the middle of the defense, to behind the deepest running back for safety reasons. But QB Peyton Manning complained about the switch after being called twice for illegal snaps when the umpire couldn't get into position quickly enough last week at Green Bay. The NFL will again re-evaluate the new policy after this week's preseason finales. The change could become permanent when the regular season starts.

-- Cardinals Contacted Giants About Matt Leinart --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Daily News reports the phone rang, the Giants answered, they talked, they hung up. And that’s about as close as QB Matt Leinart came to becoming the Giants backup quarterback on Wednesday. There apparently was nothing much more to it than that, according to a source familiar with the teams’ discussions. The Cardinals were the ones who called the Giants, the source said, knowing that they may need a backup to Eli Manning now that QB Jim Sorgi is on injured reserve. Giants GM Jerry Reese, as he always does, listened and he may have even discussed the possibility inside the organization. But according to the source, the Giants don’t have any interest in Leinart, a former first-round pick who is due more than $10 million in salary alone in the next two years. The salary plus whatever the Cardinals would want in trade make it nearly impossible for them to consider and untested 27-year-old who has started just 17 games in his four NFL seasons.

-- Bears Make Player Moves --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports the Chicago Bears has claimed OL Edwin Williams off waivers from the Washington Redskins and waived RB Brandon Minor.

-- Darrelle Revis Fine Total Watch --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports holdout New York Jets CB Darrelle Revis' 31-day fine total is now up to $512,213 and counting.

-- Cardinals Extend Darnell Dockett --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Arizona Cardinals have signed DT Darnell Dockett to a four-year extension worth up to $48 million with $30 million guaranteed. Dockett had two years left on his previous contract, so the new deal runs through the 2015 season.

-- Redskins Extend John Beck --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Washington Redskins have signed QB John Beck to a two-year $2.25 million contract extension. Beck is now contractually tied to Washington for the next three years at $3.35m.

-- FFMastermind.com Subscribers Win Thousands! --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

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-- Big Ben to Ask for Three-Game Reduction in Six-Game Suspension --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports in Friday's meeting with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger's representatives plan to ask the commissioner to reduce the six-game suspension by at least three games, bringing along team president Arthur J. Rooney II to the New York meeting to support the quarterback's case, sources with knowledge of upcoming proceedings told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio. Roethlisberger was suspended in April for six games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy a week after prosecutors decided not charge him in a case involving a 20-year-old college student who accused him of sexually assaulting her in a Georgia nightclub in March.

-- Antonio Bryant to See a Specialist --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

NFL.com reports free agent WR Antonio Bryant (knee) will consult with a specialist this week about his knee to determine if he might be able to return.

-- Ravens IR Mike McLaughlin --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

AP reports the Baltimore Ravens have placed FB Mike McLaughlin on injured reserve, ending his season.

-- Giants Have Not Traded for Matt Leinart --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

Contrary to an Internet rumor, Fox Sports' Jay Glazer reports the New York Giants have not acquired Cardinals QB Matt Leinart. They are looking for a veteran backup who's perfectly content ith being QB Eli Manning's backup.

-- Hardesty Ready to Play this Week --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Plain Dealer reports the preseason finale for the Browns this week marks the preseason debut of rookie RB Montario Hardesty, whom the Browns had penciled in as a feature back this season. Hardesty (right knee) said he’s ready for whatever they give him despite practicing only two full days so far.

-- Cardinals Shopping Reggie Wells --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Arizona Republic reports sources say the Cardinals are willing to trade OG Reggie Wells, who has started throughout the preseason. The Cardinals are deep at the position, and OG Deuce Lutui is pushing Wells for the starting job.

-- Raiders Not Interested in Matt Leinart --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Oakland Raiders official website reports the Raiders have never discussed trading for Cardinals QB Matt Leinart. The Raiders are very happy about their quarterback situation.

-- Pro Bowl Package: The Classic Deal! --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

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-- Crabtree & Davis Get into Heated Discussion --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The San Francisco Chronicle reports 49ers WR Michael Crabtree and TE Vernon Davis had a very long, heated discussion during practice today. HC Mike Singletary moderated the discussion before moving the two players inside.

-- Bills Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Buffalo News reports Bills starting RB Fred Jackson feels there is a 100 percent chance he can play when the Buffalo Bills open the regular season Sept. 12 against Miami. HC Chan Gailey wouldn't set the odds that high, saying he's not ready to commit to that. Jackson, however, cleared a big hurdle in his race to return when he practiced Tuesday for the first time since breaking his left hand Aug. 13 at Washington. Jackson shed the cast he had on his arm but was still wearing a hard brace that restricted some of what he could do. "I still can't hold the ball in my left hand like I want to with this brace that I have on," he said. Jackson did catch passes with the brace on, although he joked the quarterbacks were taking it easy on him. "I caught as much as possible, using the hand to see what it would feel like. It felt fine during it, so hopefully next week I could come out and do more stuff with it," he said. Just how soon Jackson returns will depend partly on his pain threshold. "If I get hit on it, it might bother it a little bit. I haven't been hit on it yet, so I don't know how much there would be involved," he said. "Right now it's just about dealing with the pain." The earliest timetable set by doctors for Jackson's return was four weeks. That benchmark is Sept. 10, two days before the opener. Fellow RB Marshawn Lynch practiced fully Tuesday and will be in the lineup Thursday when the Bills close the preseason against the Detroit Lions. "Marshawn took quite a few reps out there and looked good. It didn't look like there was any residual effect. So, I'm looking forward to watching him Thursday night," Gailey said. Also returning to practice Tuesday was rookie OT Ed Wang, a fifth-round pick in April. Wang has been out about a month after having thumb surgery. He won't play Thursday. "He doesn't have a way to grip yet, not that linemen ever hold," Gailey said. "We're trying to get him back in football conditioning shape for when he does get well." OT Cornell Green and LB Kawika Mitchell didn't practice Tuesday. Mitchell was absent, while Green watched from the sideline. Gailey said Green was nursing an undisclosed injury suffered in the last preseason game against Cincinnati and would be a game-time decision for Detroit.

-- Channing Crowder Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports Miami Dolphins HC Tony Sparano said LB Channing Crowder won’t play Thursday at Dallas. Crowder has an undisclosed injury, possibly a lower body ailment. He got another opinion Monday and it apparently wasn’t favorable. The Dolphins don’t disclose injury information.

-- Patriots Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Boston Globe reports yesterday was the final practice of the preseason for the Patriots. HC Bill Belichick was asked how many practices had been held since training camp began July 29, and he pulled his practice notes out of his pocket before confirming 37. NT Myron Pryor returned for the full-pads session after not participating in Monday’s practice, but numerous players did not practice, including: Julian Edelman, Terrence Wheatley, Kyle Arrington, Brandon McGowan, Brandon Deaderick, Aaron Hernandez, Jermaine Cunningham, and Ron Brace.

-- Jets Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Ledger reports Jets HC Rex Ryan said LB Calvin Pace’s surgery on the broken bone in his foot was “really successful.” While the coach has said Pace will certainly be out for the season opener, he said he’s “not sure” if he’ll miss the second game as well -- an optimistic post-surgery timetable. Ryan added the Jets are still in “wait mode” on LB Adalius Thomas, Ryan’s former Pro Bowl outside linebacker who could help fill Pace’s void. S Brodney Pool (ankle), LB Kenwin Cummings (shoulder), OG Charlie Tanner (knee), LB Josh Mauga (concussion) and S Donovan Warren (concussion) sat out yesterday. CB Antonio Cromartie had “a little hip thing,” Ryan said, and missed two plays of team drills. ORT Damien Woody, who visited the chiropractor yesterday for a lower back issue, returned to the practice field. None of the starters, or the injured back-ups listed above, will play tomorrow night at Philadelphia.

-- Ravens Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Baltimore Sun reports among the decisions the Ravens must make in setting their 53-man roster on Saturday is what to do with Pro Bowl S Ed Reed. He will either go on the physically-unable-to-perform list (Reserve PUP) or be placed on the active roster. HC John Harbaugh said Tuesday that Reed wants to play sooner and avoid the six-week inactive period the PUP list requires. Reed apparently made this point Monday during a meeting with Harbaugh, GM Ozzie Newsome, DC Greg Mattison and secondary coach Chuck Pagano. Reed had offseason hip surgery and spent all of training camp and the preseason on the PUP. Harbaugh did not rule Reed out of the Sept. 13 opener against the New York Jets, though. Rookie NT Terrence Cody had surgery Tuesday on his left knee to repair a tear in his lateral meniscus and will be out two weeks. Harbaugh said the second-round pick is questionable for opening night. "There's a chance he could be back for the opener against the Jets or, for the bigger guys, sometimes it takes a little longer," Harbaugh said. "The plus is, we have a lot of depth on the defensive line right now. That'll be day-to-day as we get closer to the game." WR Donte Stallworth delivered good news about surgery on his broken foot on his Twitter account, saying: "The surgery was successful, thank you for all your prayers. Love you much ? Now back on the grind, I'll be back SOON!!!" The veteran wide receiver broke his foot running a route against the Giants. The team expects him to return around the bye week in late October. OT Oniel Cousins (concussion) participated in a few drills Tuesday at half-speed, leaving open the question of whether he can play against the Rams. Zbikowski was held out of drills along with Clayton, CB Fabian Washington (ribs), OG David Hale (bruised tailbone) and OT Jared Gaither (thoracic disk in his back) and OT Stefan Rodgers (undisclosed). Rookie FB Mike McLaughlin (undisclosed) was on the field but didn't suit up. Hale said he is progressing from the injury he suffered Aug. 16 but is noncommittal about playing in the season opener.

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Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

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-- Rashad Jeanty Unhappy with Failed Physical --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

CBS Sports reports released former Cincinnati Bengals LB Rashad Jeanty is unhappy with the medical staff following his failed physical, the Cincinnati Enquirer is reporting. "The only reason why he isn't healthy and wasn't able to pass the physical is because they failed to fully diagnose and mistreated the injury," said Jeanty's agent, David Canter.

-- Browns Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Plain Dealer reports Broiwns TE Ben Watson was back after missing Monday for a personal reason, but OT John St. Clair is still absent. TE Robert Royal sat out again with the walking boot on his right foot. "His ankle should be fine," said HC Eric Mangini. "It's more rest than it is anything dramatic."

-- Chad Ochocinco Calling His Shot --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN reports Cincinnati Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco is calling his "shot." In anticipation of the season-opener against the New England Patriots on Sept. 12 at Gillette Stadium, Ochocinco is already planning his touchdown celebration. "If I am able to score Week 1 in New England, I will be taking the Minutemen rifle and firing as they do when the Pats score," he wrote on Twitter.

-- Dez Bryant Won't Play this Week --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Dallas Morning News reports Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant's debut will have to wait for the Sept. 12 season opener at Washington. Owner and GM Jerry Jones said before Wednesday's Kickoff Luncheon at Cowboys Stadium that Bryant will not play Thursday against Miami in part because the first-team offense will not play. Bryant returned to practice on Tuesday for the first time since suffering a high right ankle sprain on July 30 at San Antonio. Wide receivers coach Ray Sherman said Bryant looked good in practice but his conditioning needs work.

-- Jason Campbell Latching onto Zach Miller --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Contra Costa Times reports Raiders QB Jason Campbell's acclimation to the West Coast has been a smooth one, thanks in no small part to the presence of TE Zach Miller. Campbell latched on to Miller as a security blanket of sorts as soon as he stepped on the field a week after the Washington Redskins traded him to the Raiders in April. It's a relationship that figures to help both players prosper this season. Raiders HC Tom Cable talks up his wide receivers at every turn as emerging talents. Yet, as their progress moves along at a slower-than-hoped-for pace, it's apparent Miller again will be the focal point of the passing game. "There's a comfort level there with both of them, whether it be in third down or the red zone," Cable said. "Certainly Zach and Jason's relationship is flourishing."

-- Rams Won't Sign Derrick Ward --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The St. LOuis Post-Dispatch reports the Rams won't be signing free-agent RB Derrick Ward. Simply stated, Ward looks awful on tape. One league source said he looks almost disinterested. According to reports out of Tampa, Ward showed up to training camp overweight. He rushed for only 50 yards on 21 carries (2.4 yards per carry) during the preseason. After averaging 5.6 yards per carry for the '08 Giants, he dipped to 3.6 yards for Tampa Bay last season, with 409 yards on 114 carries. The Rams will continue to scan the waiver wire and league transaction list for help at running back behind RB Steven Jackson. But it doesn't look like it will be Ward.

-- Mark Clayton Expected to Play Week #1 --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The National Football Post reports Ravens WR Mark Clayton is questionable this week with a mild concussion, but is expected back for the regular season opener against the New York Jets.

-- Giants Not Interested in Matt Leinart --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The New York Post reports the Giants have no intentions of acquiring Cardinals QB Matt Leinart to back up starting QB Eli Manning.

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Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

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-- Glazer: Leinart Doesn't Want to be a Backup --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

Fos Sports' Jay Glazer said that he asked Arizona Cardinals QB Matt Leinart if he'd be a backup. Glazer said that Leinart doesn't want to be backup and texted this: "He's done enough in this league ... he wants to be a starter somewhere." Glazer explained that Leinart didn't sling the rock when he was out there in preseason -- he was being too careful. And there were always problems with the coach. "He and HC Ken Whisenhunt, they just never clicked," Glazer said.

-- Jay Cutler: No Worries About New Offense --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Sun-Times reports Bears QB Jay Cutler says the Bears have placed a governor on their much-ballyhooed offense. ''It's very vanilla stuff,'' Cutler said on Tuesday. ''We're kind of running things at inopportune times -- we're not dialing stuff up when we could dial stuff up. So it's kind of a cloak-and-dagger thing right now." Like his coaches and teammates, Cutler isn't thrilled about the Bears' 0-3 preseason record. ''We want to go out there and obviously be successful,'' he said. ''But we're not going to go out there and try to put 50 on anybody.'' The Bears have only scored 36 points this preseason, and the production of the starting offense has left much to be desired: two touchdowns, five three-and-outs, two interceptions and 10 sacks in 16 drives. Not what many projected from new OC Mike Martz, the conductor of the aptly named ''Greatest Show on Turf'' in St. Louis. But Cutler insisted the Bears aren't going to reveal much of their offense before the games count. ''I've said it casually, but we're just kind of calling plays to call plays and get them out there,'' he said. ''We're not really out there game-planning and making adjustments. 'Hey, they're running cover-3, let's run this and do that.' We're all about ourselves right now.''

-- Byron Westbrook Still a Redskin --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Washington Post reports a stroy circulating today tha the Redskins released CB Byron Westbrook is untrue. He is still a member of the Redskins. He's making the trip to Arizona today and will play in Thursday's game.

-- Bills Not Eyeing Matt Leinart --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Buffalo Bills official website reports ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on his twitter account that the Bills were one of three teams that have discussed trading for Arizona QB Matt Leinart along with the Raiders and Giants. That report is erroneous. The Bills have not had any discussions with the Cardinals in regards to Leinart and aren’t anticipating any in the future. The report is simply not true.

-- Rams Not Eyeing Vincent Jackson? --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Chris Mortensen says you shouldn't include the St. Louis Rams in the WR Vincent Jackson watch.

-- NFLPA Monitoring Rookie Trades Under 85% Rule --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

ESPN's Chris mortensen reports the NFL Players Association is monitoring a little-known "85-percent rule" in 2010 after two minor trades this week involving rookie players were made, according to union and league sources. Under the rule, which is only applicable in an uncapped year, any drafted rookie who is cut by his team is guaranteed 85 percent of his first-year minimum-wage $310,000 salary. However, the union believes the Redskins and Rams circumvented the rule when they exchanged rookie players in separate transactions earlier this week. The Redskins traded rookie TE Dennis Morris to the Rams for a future conditional draft pick; the Redskins then acquired rookie LB Hall Davis, also for a conditional draft pick. Davis was cut by the Redskins after he practiced just once, on Tuesday. Davis will not be paid $272,000 he would have been due if the Rams had cut him. The Rams are expected to release Morris when they make their final roster cuts this week from 75 to 53. Davis and Morris each were sixth-round draft choices. The 85-percent rule applies only to rookies who were drafted in April. There are other quirks -- if a drafted rookie is waived by a team and re-signed by the original club to its practice squad, he will get the difference of the practice squad minimum of $80,000 and the minimum-wage $310,000 -- or $230,000. Also, a drafted rookie will not be entitled to that 85 percent guarantee if he is cut and claimed on waivers by another team. One other rookie trade involving sixth-round draft picks between the Cardinals and Eagles also is under scrutiny by the union -- Arizona dealt rookie CB Jorrick Calvin for rookie FB Charles Scott. The Cardinals did lose FB Nehemiah Broughton for the season in Saturday night's preseason game.

-- Texans PK Watch --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Houston Chronicle reports Texans PK Kris Brown and PK eil Rackers are still even in their competition. They have one more game for one of them to gain the upper hand. "That's going to be a tough decision, and I'm going to feel bad about it, but it's part of the game," HC Gary Kubiak said. "I can't tell you how well they done and how impressive they've been in the way they've handled the situation."

-- Colts Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Indiaanpolis Star reports Colts C Jeff Saturday (knee), OT Charlie Johnson (sprained right foot) and TE Dallas Clark (left leg) have missed all three games. WR Pierre Garcon (undisclosed injury) and WR Austin Collie (undisclosed) and OG Kyle DeVan (hamstring) have missed one game. HC Jim Caldwell declined to elaborate on the team's injury situation. "I can tell you we are getting healthier," he said

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Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

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-- Jaguars Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Florida Times-Union reports Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew, all three starting linebackers (Kirk Morrison, Daryl Smith and Justin Durant), S Anthony Smith and KR Deji Karim all missed practice Tuesday. Backup LB Rod Wilson said on Twitter on Monday that he's suffered migraine headaches twice in four days and added that he had to "figure something out." He said Tuesday on Twitter that he felt better, and he has continued to practice.

-- Titans Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Nashville Tennessean reports Titans rookie DE Derrick Morgan turned the trick last week, and DT Tony Brown is planning the same this week. Brown came off the Physically Unable to Perform list Tuesday and went through his first practice since injuring his knee last year. The Titans have a walk-through today, so when Brown suits up against the Saints, he'll have one live practice under his belt. "I'm ready," said Brown, the team's best defensive lineman last season. "I'll be out there Thursday. I don't know how long I'll play and that don't even matter to me. I'll play as long as they need me to. I've just decided it's fun to be back out there running around pain-free, free of all that stuff in the past, so I'm just ready to roll." HC Jeff Fisher ruled out DE William Hayes (knee) and OT Mike Otto (knee) for Thursday's game. Question marks include LB Rennie Curran (hamstring), DE Jacob Ford (hamstring) and OG Leroy Harris (ankle). They did not practice Tuesday. LB David Thornton (shoulder) remains on the PUP list but wasn't ruled out. He hasn't practiced since undergoing shoulder surgery last season. Fisher said he thought Thornton "took a big step" in rehab work on Monday. Asked the odds of the veteran being ready for the season opener, Fisher said: "I think he's making strides, but I can't predict."

-- Broncos Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Denver Post reports despite blowing out his knee while playing basketball on the same weekend the Broncos drafted OG Zane Beadles and C J.D. Walton, all-pro OT Ryan Clady may have timed his injury so that he never misses a game. Clady, who has started all 32 games at left tackle since the Broncos drafted the offensive lineman with the No. 12 pick in 2008, not only was practicing Tuesday without wearing an orange (noncontact) jersey, the team's plan is to play him in the preseason finale. Besides Clady, RB Correll Buckhalter also practiced without restriction for the first time Tuesday while starting RB Knowshon Moreno returned for the first time since suffering a strained hamstring on Aug. 1, the first day of training camp. Moreno was wearing an orange jersey. "If the backs are ready to go, we're going to play them," McDaniels said. "Ryan Clady, same thing. We're going to kind of use today and tomorrow to gauge where we're at. Those guys will be there and that's what we're hoping for. So if they can do that and get some of those first hits out of the way and some of the first game action out of the way before we go to Jacksonville (for the Sept. 12 opener), that would be the purpose of it." QB Tim Tebow and backup RB LenDale White played Sunday against Pittsburgh despite practicing with injury limitations last week. So there is precedent for Moreno to play Thursday against the Vikings. It would still be a surprise, though, because of the shortened work week and Moreno's admission that his hamstring is only 80 percent healed. "I'm not really sure. It's whatever Coach wants to do," Moreno said. "I'm just trying to get healthy, get better and get back." Moreno is expected to be a starter in the Broncos' opener at Jacksonville.

-- Chiefs Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Kansas City Star reports Chiefs WR Chambers didn’t appear to have an injury but left practice early to do some conditioning with his injured teammates. Haley routinely doesn’t comment on injured players but said regarding Chambers, “As far as I know, we’re in good shape. We’re doing a lot of different things with a lot of different guys right now. I wouldn’t read too much into anything.” Two starters, LB Tamba Hali and OT Ryan O’Callaghan, did not practice. Hali had an ankle heavily taped as he worked out. LB Cameron Sheffield, DB Maurice Leggett and OL Darryl Harris are the other players who did not practice.

-- Raiders Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Oakland Tribune reports Raiders QB Jason Campbell was in full uniform but didn't participate in Tuesday's practice. The Raiders are taking the cautious approach with their starting quarterback, who suffered neck and wrist injuries against the 49ers on Saturday. RB Michael Bush (broken left thumb) was a no-show. He was scheduled for surgery Monday. HC Tom Cable said he wasn't at liberty to confirm Bush's surgery or comment on injuries. Bush said on Twitter that he had the surgery.

-- Chargers Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The North County Times reports Chargers LB Shawne Merriman is beset by Achilles' tendonitis, a chronic problem that flared up just two days after he began practicing with the team this summer. Merriman missed over two weeks of training camp in protest of his contract status, and he has missed equal time resting his Achilles'. His latest injury requires rest, not rehab, and there is no timetable for Merriman's return. He might not be ready for the regular season opener Sept. 13 at Kansas City. In addition to LB Shawne Merriman (Achilles'), DL Travis Johnson (ankle), TE Richie Brockel (shoulder) and OLT Brandyn Dombrowski (undisclosed) missed Tuesday's practice. OLB Larry English (foot) and OL Scott Mruczkowski (ankle) returned to practice after missing time.

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-- Seahawks List Josh Pinkard --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Seattle Times reports the Seahawks have placed CB Josh Pinkard on the non-football injured list.

-- Rams Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Rams TE Daniel Fells (knee), OG John Greco (chest), DE George Selvie (leg) and LB David Vobora (hamstring) got increased work at practice Tuesday. But WR Keenan Burton left early with swelling in his knee.

-- 49ers Injury Update - Westbrook Sits --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Press Democrat reports For the first time since Aug. 11, 49ers WR Michael Crabtree and TE Vernon Davis were on the field together during 11-on-11 team period. Crabtree missed nearly two weeks with a neck strain, and didn't play against the Raiders on Saturday even though he had practiced in the week leading up to the game. Davis hurt his knee going up for a pass from Alex Smith in the first preseason game at Indianapolis, and hasn't worked in full team drills since. Until today. Both practiced, though it's uncertain whether either will face the Chargers on Thursday. Meanwhile, OL David Baas aggravated the stinger in his right shoulder, and TE Tony Curtis injured a quadriceps. Both left the field during or after individual drills. Baas' injury must concern the 49ers as they make preparations to start the season without starting C Eric Heitmann. And Curtis, seemingly behind rookie TE Nate Byham in competition for a roster spot, can ill afford to miss much time. OT Joe Staley (sprained knee) and LB Matt Wilhelm (headaches) also were limited to individual work. RB Brian Westbrook (hamstring) sat out practice, along with long-termers WR Kyle Williams (toe), CB Will James (ankle), OLB Ahmad Brooks (kidney) and Heitmann (fibula).

-- Cardinals Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Arizona Republic reports Cardinals TE Ben Patrick practiced for a second consecutive day and did well in his return from a dislocated kneecap suffered early in training camp. HC Ken Whisenhunt said Patrick will get limited playing time Thursday but he's encouraged by what he's seen from Patrick. The team still has an issue at punt returner. Rookie P Andre Roberts (shoulder) is banged up and hasn't looked exceptionally sharp. But Whisenhunt remains confident at the position.

-- Maurice Stovall Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The St. Petersburg Times reports Buccaneers WR Maurice Stovall (ankle) practiced Tuesday and is closer to a return, but HC Raheem Morris has said he won't play Thursday at Houston.

-- Saints Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Times-Picayune reports Saints TE Jeremy Shockey will be held out this week after apparently suffering a mild concussion during last week's preseason game against the San Diego Chargers in the Superdome. HC Sean Payton described it as a "ding" but said Shockey will be fine for next week. Other players who won't even make the trip because of injuries are S Darren Sharper (knee), LB Jonathan Vilma (groin), CB Tracy Porter (knee), LB Clint Ingram (knee), S Pierson Prioleau (knee) and OT Zach Strief (knee). LB Stanley Arnoux (ankle) also appears doubtful. None of those players have been ruled out for the regular-season opener. Porter should be OK, and Vilma appears questionable, but Sharper appears doubtful. Sharper said he still hopes to play against the Vikings, even though he admitted he is disappointed that he hasn't returned to the practice field sooner this summer.

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-- Falcons Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports Falcons WR Michael Jenkins, who injured his shoulder during the "Friday Night Lights" scrimmage at North Gwinnett High School on Aug. 6, was doing light work at practice Tuesday, and HC Mike Smith said the timetable for his recovery of four to six weeks is looking on target. "I think he's on track," Smith said. "You guys may have noticed, Mike was catching the ball, throwing the ball. I think that time frame we mentioned when the injury first occurred, I think we're still on schedule for that." The team never has disclosed the extent of Jenkins' injury. If he misses six weeks, that potentially would have him ready for the Falcons' second game, at home against Arizona on Sept. 19. For the third consecutive practice, DE Kroy Biermann did not participate. Biermann, who leads the team in sacks and forced fumbles this preseason while playing as a backup lineman, could have a minor injury or a pain, but Smith has said he will not disclose injuries until he has to issue an NFL-mandated injury report Sept. 8, the Wednesday before the first game.

-- Vikings Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Tribune reports Vikings rookie S Chris Cook's potential ascension to the starting right cornerback spot has been put on hold. The second-round pick suffered a torn meniscus in his right knee Saturday in the Vikings' preseason victory over Seattle and underwent arthroscopic surgery, according to NFL sources. Cook is expected to be out for at least two weeks and miss the Vikings' regular-season opener on Sept. 9 at New Orleans. The Vikings must decide by Saturday's deadline whether to activate CB Cedric Griffin or place him on the reserve PUP. If they do, he would not be eligible to play for the first six weeks of the season and would not count against the 53-man roster. The normal recovery period for an ACL injury is six to nine months, and right now Griffin is at seven-plus months. That means that while he probably won't be ready for the Saints, he could be set to go before six weeks have passed. Griffin has been working out after practices doing cutting drills and was back at it Tuesday. WR Sidney Rice was placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform list Tuesday, meaning the Vikings Pro Bowl wide receiver is officially out for the first six weeks. Rice is expected to miss at least half the season after having hip surgery in Colorado last week. The move means he will not count against the 53-man roster. According to league rules, the Vikings will have three weeks after Week 6 to decide whether Rice is able to practice. Once he's cleared to practice, the team has another three weeks to activate him or keep him on reserve PUP for the rest of the season. The latest Rice could return using the full recovery timetable would the Dec. 5 game against Buffalo. C John Sullivan did not practice Tuesday because of his calf injury and he won't play Thursday. Bevell said the hope is that Sullivan practices next week and then the team will decide how to proceed for the opener. S Jamarca Sanford, DT Jimmy Kennedy, TE Garrett Mills and WR Logan Payne did not practice Tuesday because of injuries.

-- Quinn Porter Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports Packers RB Quinn Porter is wearing a brace on the left knee that he injured against Indianapolis. Porter indicated that the injury was a sprained medial collateral ligament, which doesn't require surgery but can sideline a player for a month or more. Porter said he suffered a similar injury to the same knee in 2005 as a member of the cheerleading squad at Stillman College. He expects to return in a week, but a more likely possibility would be a berth on the injured-reserve list.

-- Ryan Grant Upset About his Fumbles --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports last exhibition season, Packers RB Ryan Grant lost only one fumble, and it came on a reception. This year, he has two lost fumbles on 16 carries in three games. That's not acceptable for a guy who had 307 regular-season touches and just the one fumble. "The expectations with this team are high," Grant said. "There's a reason why. We led the league in ball security. We take pride in that. You don't have a heart attack about it, but you make sure you clean some things. We did some things this week from a ball security standpoint. I did some things. It will be taken care of." Grant said he thought his arm was down before he fumbled against Indianapolis but it was a fumble nevertheless and he had to accept responsibility.

-- Lions Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Detroit News reports Lions RB Kevin Smith's working his way back from major surgery (torn anterior cruciate ligament). He got his first prolonged playing time last weekend and gained 20 yards on eight carries with one fumble that the Browns returned for a 44-yard touchdown. "He's got to get to the point where the knee is not even on his agenda anymore," Schwartz said. "He's got to get to the point where he doesn't think about it when he's out there. And that's a long process. That's not an overnight thing." Smith was held out of practice Tuesday, by design, and is expected to get plenty of carries in the final exhibition Thursday against the Bills. "Kevin practiced Monday and he played Saturday," HC Jim Schwartz said. "We never want to go too many days in a row and we never want to practice him when he's sore. His work was up the last couple of days, so we shut him down today with an eye toward him getting good reps in the game." Smith has worked as the No. 2 tailback behind Best most of camp. RB Maurice Morris has been third, with RB Aaron Brown and RB DeDe Dorsey battling for perhaps the final roster spot. PK Jason Hanson, who had arthroscopic surgery on his left (non-kicking) knee, expects to kick field goals Thursday. "That's not been decided yet, but that's what I am hoping," he said. "That was the target and the leg has held up." Hanson had the knee of his kicking leg scoped in camp last season and was ready for the opener at Chicago. S Louis Delmas (groin), S Ko Simpson (knee), CB Jonathan Wade (finger), CB Aaron Berry (hamstring), and DE Lawrence Jackson (hamstring) all participated in practice Tuesday. LB DeAndre Levy ( groin) and S C.C. Brown (forearm), however, did not practice.

-- Bears Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Chicago Tribune reports Bears LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (ill) missed practice Tuesday and OT Kevin Shaffer was excused. WR Earl Bennett sat out a day after returning from a three-week layoff due to a pulled hamstring. Smith indicated he didn't think it was serious.

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Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

-- McNabb Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Washington Post reports Redskins OC Kyle Shanahan said he expects starting QB Donovan McNabb to return to workouts next week, when the team will be preparing to open the season against Dallas. McNabb hasn't practiced since spraining his left ankle Aug. 21 against Baltimore. "I expect him to be able to practice next week," Shanahan said following Tuesday's practice. "I think he does too. You never know. We'll see how the injury goes. We know he's hurting right now, but we think he'll be good to go next week." McNabb attended practice Tuesday without shoulder pads, but also without the protective sleeve he wore on the lower part of his left leg Monday. He has moved around Redskins Park without an air cast or walking boot since early last week. HC Mike Shanahan said it was impossible to say for certain when McNabb would return to workouts. "I kind of used this before, and I don't mean to not answer your question, but how do you know? How do you know?" Shanahan said. "...You're hoping that a guy can go, but you don't know if there's going to be a setback or not. Keeping my fingers crossed and hoping. He's doing everything he can in rehab to get himself ready, but when he's ready to go I'll let you guys know."

-- Redskins Release Four --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Washington Redskins official website reports the Redskins released four players, including OL Edwin Williams, on Tuesday to get to the league-mandated 75-player roster limit. Also released on Tuesday were S Lendy Holmes, LS James Dearth and LB Hall Davis.

-- Eagles Injury Update - DeSean Jackson Absent --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Eagles DE Trent Cole (ankle), LB Ernie Sims (forearm), OG Todd Herremans (ankle), CB Dimitri Patterson (groin), and DE Ricky Sapp (knee) did not practice Tuesday, but took part in conditioning drills outdoors. WR DeSean Jackson (neck/back) also did not practice. He was home recovering after having his wisdom teeth pulled. Sapp underwent an MRI exam. The Eagles said they were still evaluating his knee.

-- Giants Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Ledger reports Giants TE Travis Beckum returned to action Monday for the first time in over a week. Tuesday, he was out again. "He has to have more research done," HC Tom Coughlin said. ORT Kareem McKenzie (migraine) was back to practice. "He most definitely had issues (on Monday)," Coughlin said. "He got the medication he needed and felt better today." HC Tom Coughlin gave starting OG Chris Snee (also Coughlin's son-in-law) yesterday off because Snee's wife was giving birth. It is Coughlin's 10th grandchild. Tuesday was Coughlin's birthday.

-- Cowboys Injury Update --
Wed Sep 1, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com

The Star Telegram reports only a select few Cowboys starters will play in Thursday's final preseason game. HC Wade Phillips said QB Tony Romo, LB Keith Brooking, DE Marcus Spears and S Gerald Sensabaugh definitely would not play. Phillips said he still had not decided whether rookie WR Dez Bryant (ankle) would play. Phillips said it would depend on how Bryant looked in practice. WR Roy Williams missed practice Tuesday with a strained lower back and hip flexor and likely won't play Thursday.

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Sleeper of the Week - RB Arian Foster (Houston)
Saturday, August 28th, 2010
He entered camp as the temp starter, but he might just start the season as the permanent starter after RB Ben Tate was lost for the season with a broken

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