Comprehensive Information - Rankings - Draft Guide - Cheatsheets - Newsletters & More Throughout the Year Since 1996. http://www.ffmastermind.com Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The National Football Post reports Buffalo Bills first-round draft pick RB C.J. Spiller is slated to become an immediate starter. The speedy first-round draft pick from Clemson has made a big impression on the coaching staff. "I think he showed in college that he was a dynamic player," Bills HC Chan Gailey told reporters. "I think that he has shown in his few reps here that he is a very good player and has a chance to be a really good player for a long time in this league. The reason he's starting is because he's gotten more reps than anybody else in preseason at tailback and he's done a good job. If he hadn't done a good job, then we might have to rethink it. But he's done a good job and he's earned the spot. So we're looking forward to him being out there." http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208182 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208182 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports the Washington Redskins are once again shopping DT Albert Haynesworth and are specifically talking to the Tennessee Titans about the disgruntled defensive tackle. The Redskins' asking price is two draft picks, which is too high for the Titans. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208102 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208102 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Providence Journal reports New England Patriots OG Logan Mankins (holdout) remains out. Mankins has gone on record to say that he was promised by the team that he would be given more money than the 5-year, $35 million contract they offered him. He feels like he was lied to, so a lot of mending has to be done before he returns. Patriots HC Bill Belichick was asked Monday if he would consider making a house call to Mankins in an effort to get him back with the team like Jets HC Rex Ryan did with CB Darrelle Revis. Belichick responded by saying: 'I don't really know what everybody else does. I'm just going to coach the team and do the best I can for our team here. That's what I'll do.' When asked if Mankins would be welcomed back to the team if he were to arrive this week, Belichick said: 'Right now I am getting ready for the Bengals with the players that are on our roster.' While Mankins' long-term contract offer is no longer on the table, his reduced $1.54-million tender is. So he can return to the team any time he wants. That likely won't be until Week 10 though. That's the final week he can return to the team and still get credit for the season. According to reports, Mankins is seeking a similar deal to the Saints OG Jahri Evans, who received a seven-year, $56.7-million contract this offseason. The Patriots are prepared to move on without him. OG Dan Connolly will start in his place, at least until OG Nick Kaczur returns from a back injury. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208094 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208094 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN's Matt Mosley reports Washington Redskins HCh Mike Shanahan told reporters Wednesday that DT Albert Haynesworth will be on the roster Sunday -- and then he broke the startling news that the two of them speak to each other sometimes. "Albert will be with us this week," Shanahan said. "For sure." And here's what Shanahan said about his relationship with Haynesworth: "You might not think we ever communicate, but we do sometimes," Shanahan said. "Even though the sources have not talked about us communicating." Nevertheless, Shanahan could deactivate Haynesworth for the game Sunday. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208224 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208224 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Indianapolis Colts have claimed OT Joe Reitz off waivers from Miami. To make room, the Colts waived/injured OT Tony Ugoh. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208223 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208223 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the agent for former Cincinnati Bengals WR Antonio Bryant (knee) has filed a grievance against the team in an attempt to secure the receiver's 2010 salary. Bryan received a $7.85 million signing bonus, but was released before he played a down for the Bengals. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208222 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208222 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com CBS Sports reports Oakland Raiders WR/KR/PR Yamon Figurs will return both punts and kickoffs Sunday against Tennessee, Raiders HC Tom Cable said. He pointed to the former Baltimore Raven's "explosiveness" for his decision. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208220 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208220 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN reports the Detroit Lions have signed TE Joe Jon Finley to complete their to practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208219 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208219 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The National Football Post reports the Cincinnati Bengals have signed WR Shay Hodge to complete their practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208217 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208217 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The National Football Post reports the San Francisco 49ers have signed QB Nate Davis to their practice squad and released QB Jarrett Brown from their practice squad. Davis was released from the 49ers' 53-man roster earlier this week to make room for QB Troy Smith. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208215 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208215 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports New York Giants RB Brandon Jacobs stormed off from an interview session with reporters after being questioned about his role. Jacobs has been demoted to the No. 2 back behind RB Ahmad Bradshaw. He refused to answer questions about comments he made last week that he was unhappy with his role. After answering some questions about the Giants' new stadium and the upcoming season, he was asked about the team's two-back system in 2008, when he and RB Derrick Ward shared carries and each ran for 1,000 yards. Part of the question was did both backs forget their egos? 'You think I'm stupid, aren't you? You guys are funny, man,' Jacobs said before he walked away, leaving the room with an expletive. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208211 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208211 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com CBS Sports reports Cincinnati Bengals rookies TE Jermaine Gresham and WR Jordan Shipley will play significant roles Sunday after strong preseason performances. QB Carson Palmer expects it to take some time for them to adjust to regular-season game speed. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208210 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208210 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The San Diego Union-Tribune reports the NFL's Special Master is expected to rule "within a week or so" whether the San Diego Chargers can keep suspended WR Vincent Jackson on the Roster Exempt list. If that is the case, then he won't be eligible to play for any team until week #7. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208202 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208202 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com CBS Sports reports new St. Louis Rams WR Mark Clayton is getting work at the "Z" WR position, although he and HC Steve Spagnuolo said Clayton could play any of the receiver positions. The starting 'Z' position belonged to WR Donnie Avery, who is out for the season with a torn ACL. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208200 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208200 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com CBS Sports reports Seattle Seahawks HC Pete Carroll said Wednesday that RB Justin Forsett, the team's starting running back, will handle punt returns as well. Rookie WR Golden Tate is another option, but for now it looks like Forsett will do double duty. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208191 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208191 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com CBS Sports reports Houston Texans HC Gary Kubiak said RB Derrick Ward is familiar enough with the playbook to see limited action on Sunday. 'He's done some of our stuff (in Tampa),' Kubiak said. 'I am comfortable (playing him); I just have to know I'm calling the right plays.' http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208189 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208189 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The National Football Post reports the Kansas City Chiefs have signed WR/KR Quinten Lawrence to their practice squad. To make room, the Chiefs released DT Garrett Brown from their practice squad. Lawrence played in six games for Kansas City last season, returning 16 kickoffs for 317 yards. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208186 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208186 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports new St. Louis Rams WR Mark Clayton expects to be ready in time for Sunday's regular-season opener against Arizona. Clayton spoke Wednesday after his first practice with the team. He was acquired Monday from the Baltimore Ravens. Clayton adds needed experience to the team's crew of wide receivers, especially after deep threat WR Donnie Avery (knee) was lost for the season with a knee injury. Clayton and 2010 No. 1 overall draft pick QB Sam Bradford are both Oklahoma products and even worked together on drills the summer before Bradford's junior year. Rams HC Steve Spagnuolo wasn't sure Wednesday whether Clayton would play against the Cardinals. He'll get only three practices to prepare. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208185 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208185 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The National Football Post reports the Baltimore Ravens have completed their practice squad by signing CB David Pender. Pender tried out Tuesday along with CB Chevis Jackson, CB Lydell Sargeant and CB Terrail Lambert. The Ravens tried to convince CB Prince Miller to rejoin the team on the practice squad after being cut from the active roster Sunday, but he signed with the New England Patriots. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208183 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208183 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the Buffalo Bills have signed TE DajLeon Farr to their practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208180 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208180 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the Buffalo Bills have released TE Derek Schouman (knee) with an injury settlement. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208173 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208173 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the New Orleans Saints have released CB Leigh Torrence and re-signed TE Tory Humphrey. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208171 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208171 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the Miami Dolphins have signed free-agent RB/KR Clifton Smith and waived OT Joe Reitz. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208169 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208169 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the Carolina Panthers have released OG C.J. Davis (concussion) with an injury settlement. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208166 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208166 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Nashville Tennessean reports Titans HC Jeff Fisher said WR Kenny Britt seems to be in better form this week after two drops and a penalty last week. "Kenny has been in and working," he said. "He is focused today and in the game plan and obviously hoping to contribute. He finished up strong for us at the end of the year and we need to create an environment where he can just continue to improve." http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208165 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208165 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Post Gazette reports Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall, who emerged from Tomlin's doghouse to lead the Steelers with 1,108 yards rushing last season, will start and also serve as the prime third-down back, as he did for the second half of last season. Holding down those two jobs on a team that does not have another back with a strong pedigree and has acknowledged a need to pay more attention to the ground game can mean overwork. Ask RB Willie Parker, whose leg was broken on his 321st carry of the 2007 season, a season that began with Tomlin saying he would run Parker until his wheels came off. Tomlin, in his first season as Steelers coach then, might have learned something from the experience. He said Monday that RB Isaac Redman will get the first chances in short yardage and that Redman and veteran RB Mewelde Moore will be used if Tomlin determines Mendenhall is being overused. "Rashard is our feature runner. He's good in about all circumstances you put him in. He's had a good training camp and preseason. He's good with the ball in his hands, he's good with the blitz pickup out of the backfield. We like how his game is shaping up in that it's well-rounded. He's an emerging player. He's becoming a veteran player. We're going to call on him." But... "We are going to monitor his touches simply because that's the appropriate thing to do this early in the season. He is going to be in; he is capable of staying in on third downs. But, of course, we're also capable of inserting a Mewelde Moore or even an Isaac Redman for that matter. We're going to be thoughtfully non-rhythmic here as we get started but for different reasons, one to preserve Rashard to be inclusive to the contributions of those men." http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208164 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208164 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN reports on the eve of the 2010 NFL regular season, the head of the players' union reiterated his belief that the league is headed for a lockout in 2011. "I still feel that a lockout is coming in March," NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith said. The NFL and the NFLPA have several issues to negotiate, including the amount of the league's revenue going to players, an 18-game schedule, expanded drug testing and a rookie wage scale before a new collective bargaining agreement can be reached. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208163 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208163 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the Oakland Raiders have signed free-agent DT Jay Alford. To make room, the team released backup OT Erik Pears. Pears started four games for the Raiders last season, two at left guard and two at right tackle. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208162 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208162 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Star Tribune reports Vikings HC Brad Childress said WR Bernard Berrian will handle punt returns, and it looks like S Husain Abdullah could start at safety. Abdullah played some nickel corner last season so he could help in the slot when the Saints use their four wide receiver set. Childress also indicated the team could promote CB Marcus Sherels from the practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208161 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208161 Wed Sep 8, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Star Tribune reports Vikings veteran PK Ryan Longwell did not hide his feelings this spring when the Vikings signed free agent PK Rhys Lloyd to a contract that included $200,000 in guarantees so he could handle kickoffs. Longwell made it clear he liked to kick off in part because that helped him get a read on how the ball would travel during field-goal attempts. It didn't take long for Longwell to get his old job back. Lloyd was cut Saturday when the Vikings decided that his roster spot could be used in a better way, leaving Longwell as the only kicker on the roster. 'It's certainly what I'm used to," Longwell said of handling both kickoffs and field goals. "Certainly I feel like I'm an asset doing it. I think I'm OK doing it. But there is no doubt that I've used it over the years to kick field goals and especially with our extended schedule looking ahead. There is no doubt it will pay off.' http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208159 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208159 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN reports free agent KR Clifton Smith is expected to sign with the Miami Dolphins. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208156 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208156 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Carroll County Times reports the Baltimore Ravens worked out free agent CB Chevis Jackson on Tuesday. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208155 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208155 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The San Diego Union Tribune reports the Chargers have signed TE Kory Sperry and OT Ryan Otterson to their practice squad and released QB Jonathan Crompton and C/OG Jeff Hansen from their practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208154 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208154 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com CBS Sports reports the Seattle Seahawks have re-signed S Jordan Babineux and released DT Craig Terrill. Babineaux was expendable because he was a backup scheduled to make $2.45 million. Now he has rejoined the team, presumably for less money. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208149 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208149 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The National Football Post reports the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed former New Orleans Saints fourth-round DT Al Woods to their practice squad. To make room, the team released Steelers rookie seventh-round draft pick DE/DT Doug Worthington from their practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208148 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208148 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com Buccaneers.com reports the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have signed P Brent Bowden and LB Lee Robinson to complete their eight-man practice squad. They join WR Dezmon Briscoe, OT Will Barker, OT Derek Hardman, S Vince Anderson, DE George Johnson, and TE Ryan Purvis. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208146 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208146 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AzCardinals.com reports the Cardinals have signed CB Marshay Green and LB Pago Togafau to complete their practice. They join RB Ian Johnson, WR Tim Brown, LB Curtis Gatewood, OT Herman Johnson, OG Tom Pestock and WR Isaiah Williams. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208145 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208145 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Rams had four wide receivers and a safety in for free-agent workouts Tuesday. But all were in on an evaluation basis only, for future consideration if the Rams need to replace injured or under-performing players. The wide receivers, with their most recent NFL teams in parenthesis, were WR Derek Hagan (Giants), WR Jason Hill (San Francisco), WR Demetrius Williams (Baltimore), and WR Paul Williams (Tennessee). The FS Al Afalava (Chicago) also was worked out. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208144 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208144 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Rams completed their eight-man practice squad Tuesday by adding RB Allen Patrick. Patrick was a seventh-round draft pick by the Baltimore Ravens in 2008 out of the University of Oklahoma. Patrick has bounced around to several teams since then, most recently the Indianapolis Colts, but has yet to play in a regular-season NFL game. He spent most of his rookie season on Cleveland's practice squad, and part of '09 on practice squads in Jacksonville and with the New York Giants. Patrick, 6-1, 196, was on Cleveland's active roster the final three games of '08, but didn't see game action. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208143 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208143 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Boston Globe reports the New England Patriots filled out their eight-player practice squad by signing CB Tony Carter, CB Prince Miller, and ILB Tyrone McKenzie (reported earlier). To make room, the Pats released TE Jeron Mastrud from their practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208142 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208142 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the New York Jets filled out their eight-player practice squad by signing RB Chauncey Washington (reported earlier), DT Jarron Gilbert (reported earlier), and LB Cody Brown. To make room on the squad, New York released LB Ricky Foley and CB Donovan Warren. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208141 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208141 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com Scout.com reports a source says the Jacksonville Jaguars and starting OG Uche Nwaneri have agreed to a new five-year contract worth about $24 million with between $8-$9 million guaranteed. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208140 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208140 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN's Adam Schefter reports contract discussions between the New England Patriots and QB Tom Brady escalated Tuesday to the point where a deal could be completed before New England opens its regular season, according to a source close to the situation. The Boston Herald, citing sources close to the negotiations, reported that the Patriots offered their franchise quarterback a three-year, $58 million contract that could be completed in the next 24 hours. The deal would kick in after this season. He is set to earn $6.5 million this year in the final season of his current deal. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208138 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208138 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the New York Jets have waived WR Patrick Turner. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208137 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208137 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the San Diego Chargers have waived CB Brandon Hughes. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208135 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208135 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the NFL heard QB Peyton Manning's complaints and responded with additional tweaks to the new umpire rule. All 32 teams were told in a memo from the league Tuesday that the umpire will now position himself 12 yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped instead of approximately 15 yards, which was used during the preseason. Also, the head linesman or line judge can signal when the ball can be snapped instead of having quarterbacks checking with referees. And the umpire must only be beyond the deepest running back -- not established in position -- before the ball can be snapped. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208133 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208133 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports Bill Parcells is turning over control of the Miami Dolphins to GM Jeff Ireland but will retain a role as a daily consultant. The Dolphins announced the move in a three-sentence statement Tuesday, five days before the start of the season. The change was part of a long-range plan when the Parcells regime took over at the end of the 2007 season, the statement said. "This was the intent of the structure put in place in the past," the Dolphins said. Ireland will assume full control over all aspects regarding the team and support staff. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208132 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208132 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN reports Pittsburgh Steelers HC Mike Tomlin said Tuesday there's no guarantee that QB Ben Roethlisberger will be the starting quarterback when he returns from his four-game suspension. On Monday, Tomlin named QB Dennis Dixon the starter in Roethlisberger's absence. When asked if Roethlisberger would regain his starting job upon his return, Tomlin told Sirius NFL Radio: "I'm going to dodge that one and not artfully," according to USA Today. "I'm not going to back myself in a corner." http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208130 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208130 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the Cleveland Browns have waived LB David Veikune and signed CB Derrick Roberson. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208127 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208127 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports New York Jets CB Darrelle Revis returned to the practice field for the New York Jets on Tuesday, one day after he signed a four-year deal that ended his 36-day holdout. Jets HC Rex Ryan said Revis is expected to be ready to play in Monday night's season opener against the visiting Baltimore Ravens. "I understand Ravens FB Le'Ron McClain is saying he's happy CB Darrelle Revis is playing, they'll be no excuses or whatever," Ryan said. "He must have us confused with someone else. We don't make excuses. All we do is produce, and that's what we will do on Monday night." http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208126 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208126 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the Tennessee Titans have signed RB Herb Donaldson to their practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208125 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208125 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com In a follow up to an earlier report, CBS Sports reports Denver Broncos HC Josh McDaniels won't commit publicly on veteran QB Brady Quinn or rookie QB Tim Tebow as his backup quarterback. McDaniels indicated it could change based on opponent and game plan. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208124 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208124 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the St. Louis Rams have released WR Keenan Burton. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208122 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208122 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN's Matt Mosley reports Washington Redskins QB Donovan McNabb said Tuesday that the team cannot win without DT Albert Haynesworth. Appearing Tuesday on his weekly ESPN 980 radio show, McNabb said "Albert is one of our brothers in the locker room ... he understands, 'Hey, I got to put the time and effort in.' We can't win without him. I think he'll be here. I hope he'll be here." Saying the Redskins "can't win" without Haynesworth is a pretty revealing statement from a man who chooses his words carefully during interviews. At a time when anonymous sources from the organization are destroying Haynesworth for his work in the preseason finale, it's interesting that the new quarterback would have his teammate's back in such a public way. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208121 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208121 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com CBS Sports reports that according to the Denver Broncos official depth chart, QB Brady Quinn has beaten out rookie QB Tim Tebow for the team's No. 2 quarterback job. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208116 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208116 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com Steelcityinsider.net reports Pittsburgh Steelers HC Mike Tomlin has named RB Isaac Redman the team's short-yardage back. However, Tomlin did say the Steelers will use Mendenhall as the primary third-down back, as they did in the second half of last season, so he could make up for a couple of the scores that Redman may syphon off. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208113 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208113 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the Denver Broncos have released DL Le Kevin Smith. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208111 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208111 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com AP reports the New York Jets have signed RB Chauncey Washington and DL Jarron Gilbert to their practice squad. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208110 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208110 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN's Adam Schefter reports two knowledgeable people say reports of a deal for New England Patriots QB Tom Brady being in place are "inaccurate" and "wrong". http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208108 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208108 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Indianapolis Star reports it appears the primary alignment at wideout for the Colts this week at Houston might be the same as it was during the Super Bowl loss to New Orleans: WR Reggie Wayne and WR Pierre Garcon on the outside, WR Austin Collie in the slot. That would leave WR Anthony Gonzalez as the interchangeable backup. Until then and perhaps even after that, he's choosing his words carefully. "All I wanted was an opportunity to compete,'' Gonzalez said. "That's it. That's what I was promised.'' The team's initial depth chart lists Gonzalez as its punt returner. "It's possible,'' he said. "I have no idea.'' http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208107 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208107 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com Th Buffalo Bills official website reports QB Ryan Fitzpatrick will go into Sunday's game as the number two quarterback for the Bills, with QB Brian Brohm the emergency third QB. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208106 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208106 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Boston Herald reports a contract extension for New England Patriots QB Tom Brady is imminent. The deal could be a three-year, $58 million extension. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208104 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208104 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Denver Broncos have signed ex-Seahawks DT Kevin Vickerson. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208103 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208103 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com In an update from our ealier report, the National Football Post reports the St. Louis Rams are indeed scheduled to meet with ex-Ravens WR Demetrius Williams (6-2, 197). Williams has the speed to gain separation, good hands and crisp routes, but has struggled with his durability. The former fourth-round draft pick from Oregon was cut Saturday after a solid preseason, but is coming off a sprained right ankle. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208101 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208101 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Palm Beach Post reports Miami Dolphins OLB Ikaika Alama-Francis, a converted defensive end looking to revive his career after being cut by Detroit, continued to work at outside linebacker with the first-team defense on Monday instead of rookie OLB Koa Misi, who held the job for the first four weeks of training camp. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208096 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208096 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Boston Globe reports the New England Patriots have signed LB Tyrone McKenzie to their practice squad. A third-round draft pick last year, McKenzie tore his ACL during non-contact work in his rookie mini-camp just days after being drafted and found himself struggling to gain a spot at inside linebacker after the Pats selected Brandon Spikes in the second round this year. McKenzie's story -- he transferred colleges twice to tend to family issues in Florida -- has quickly made him a player fans are pulling for. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208095 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208095 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports the Browns have claimed C/OG Steve Vallos off waivers from Seattle. To make room, the Browns released OL Billy Yates. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208091 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208091 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Indianapolis Star reports Colts rookie TE Brody Eldridge, a fifth-round draft pick, is list as the starting H-back ahead of incumbent TE Gijon Robinson on the team's official depth chart. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208088 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208088 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Nashville Tennessean reports Titans WR Kenny Britt beat himself up following a dreadful preseason finale. Then HC Jeff Fisher made it known the second-year pro needed to get focused or be prepared to sit on the bench. Monday, Britt said it's all behind him. "It's always a clean slate, every time you come on the practice field, any time you come in the meeting rooms," Britt said. "I am not trying to dwell on that. I am just trying to stay focused and do what I have done my whole life, to play football. You can't blame someone for a bad day. Maybe I'll have a great day next." http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208085 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208085 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Star Tribune reports Vikings WR Percy Harvin established himself as a premier slot receiver last season as a rookie. This year Harvin expects to play a bigger role in the Vikings offense, moving outside far more frequently to create matchup issues. "My eyes get wider," said Harvin, who expects to move inside in multiple receiver sets. "I always don't have to go down there and worry about defensive backs, safeties and linebackers. I get to go out there and play in a little more space. For me, there is nothing else better. ... The more space [I have] the better I am." http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208084 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208084 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Washington Redskins official website reports Redskins DT Albert Haynesworth is showing signs of improvement in the Redskins' defense, HC Mike Shanahan said on Monday. Shanahan offered his first evaluation of Haynesworth after reviewing the film from last Thursday's preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. Haynesworth saw extensive action in the game. He posted four tackles in the Redskins' 20-10 loss to the Cardinals. Just like it took time for Haynesworth to get in football shape, it is taking time for him to learn the nuances of the Redskins' 3-4 defense, Shanahan said. 'Anytime a person plays the defensive end or the nose position, it takes some time,' he said. 'It doesn't happen overnight. He played a lot of plays and did a good job considering he played a couple different positions ' and not having the reps that some of the other players have had. 'It was work that was well-needed and he played hard.' Shanahan and DC Jim Haslett won't say how much Haynesworth could play in the Redskins' regular season opener vs. Dallas on Sunday night. Coaches want Haynesworth to refine technique required for the defensive scheme. 'It's not just the effort, it's the use of technique,' Shanahan said. 'Playing a couple of different positions, it's going to be tough...He worked hard. He made a few mistakes here and there. He's getting better.' http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208083 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208083 Tue Sep 7, 2010 --from FFMastermind.com The Star Ledger reports during QB Sage Rosenfels' season with the Minnesota Vikings, his status was consistently instable. His place on the team operated on the whim of QB Brett Favre, who joined the Vikings after training camp both seasons. Rosenfels complimented Favre, but he joins a situation with the Giants entirely different than his experience with the Vikings. 'It couldn't be further from what I just went through,' Rosenfels said. 'We had four quarterbacks, and it was day-to-day with sort of what's going to happen. But this situation, I feel like I'm on solid ground. Coach Coughlin knows what he's going to get out of me and I know what I'm going to get out of him and the team, and I'm obviously much happier to be in a situation where I know what's going to happen on a day-to-day basis.' Rosenfels has had success as a starter in the NFL ' he's 6-6 in his career when starting and 6-4 with the Houston Texans ' but has never received an opportunity to become a full-time starter. Minnesota originally acquired him with a quarterback challenge in mind, but New York is another situation where Rosenfels' role is clear: he's the backup to QB Eli Manning. http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208082 http://www.ffmastermind.com/quickbits.php#208082