Know thine enemy...

 DIVISION RIVALS:   

                                              San Diego Chargers

Tucker's ankle injury has fans asking, "Who’s after Jyles?"

                                                                                                        LB Anthony Waters

The seriousness of the injury to San Diego's newest millionaire line backer is unknown at the time of this writing, but if indeed the Chargers find themselves with out the services of Merriman, Stephen Cooper AND Jyles Tucker, who’s left in the Chargers rotation?

Most likely 2^nd year man Anthony Waters.

Much Like Oakland Raider running back Michael Bush, former Clemson star Anthony Waters suffered a season ending injury his Senior year in the 3^rd quarter of the teams season opener.

Like Bush, Waters sat his entire rookie year and again, like Bush, they hope he’s ready to contribute.

Possibly, right now.

Hours after signing team mate and fellow line backer Jyles Tucker to a 5 year $14 million dollar contract Jyles was injured in a pre season match up with the Seattle Seahawks.

The injury may not be severe, but with the loss of Cooper, Merriman and now maybe Jyles, some fans are suddenly questioning who’s next in the rotation and then asking "Who’s Anthony Waters?"

Waters came from a tough upbringing with 8 brothers and sisters all raised solely by their Mother Lynette.

Waters two older brothers have spent time in jail, in fact his eldest is facing a possible life sentence. But Waters discovered and excelled in athletics and like so many fine men and women before him used his god given talent and hard work to over come adversity.

Then came the ACL knee injury against Florida Atlantic.

Chosen 96^th overall in the 3^rd round of the 2007 draft, the Chargers knew the 6-3, 238 lb Waters was going to be a project that would require patience, but with this weeks blur of negative developments, fans are wondering if they need him to, is Waters ready to step into action?

                                              San Diego Chargers

UPDATE: 7:03 PM Pacific

With 7:27 left in the 3^rd quarter of tonight Seahawks Chargers pre season game Jyles was caught by the back end of a play when a defender and O line man got tangled and went down. The Seahawk line man’s helmet clipped his right leg between the knee and ankle.

He limped off immediately and was placed on a table and examined by staff.

No word on his condition as of yet.

Hours earlier he was quoted as saying: 

"“It’s crazy that it all worked out this way. I couldn’t have done any of this without my family and without the Lord. I just feel so blessed.”

Just in: 7:14 PM Early reports call Tucker's injury a sprained ankle. More tests to come and a further evaluation likely tomorrow.

08-25-08: LB Jyles Tucker signs contract extension

                                                                   LB Jyles Tucker

                                                              Photo by Lenny Ignelzi, AP

11-20-07 Jyles Tucker was signed from the San Diego practice squad.

Today he received a 5 yr extension through the year 2012 reportedly worth around $14 million dollars.

The 6-3, 258 lb. Tucker made his way onto the squad with crushing special teams play and a 3 sack performance against Oakland in the 2007 regular season game.

The suspension to fellow LB Stephen Cooper of 4 games, and the injury and undecided fate of All Pro LB Shawne Merriman certainly must’ve played into consideration, but the former Wake Forest defensive end is one of 8 players the Chargers have struck a new deal with since December.

Having said that though, Tucker’s contract is pretty rare. Teams usually aren’t so generous after only one year. So rare is Jyles' contract in fact, it’s the first player in the 2007 rookie class to receive one.He was scheduled to become an exclusive rights free agent at the end of 08'.

                                                Kansas City Chiefs

08-25-08: Chiefs hope "Mr. Mc" Feely can Kick them into Shape 

                                                                           Newest Chief K Jay Feely

Despite the defense of irrational Kansas City fans, the Chiefs DO have a problem at kicker.

They decided to sign veteran kicker Jay "Mr. Mc" Feely to a contract despite the best efforts of Nick Nowak and Connor Barth who've booted for them this pre season.

Feely got the axe under the new Parcel’s regime partly because of new kicker, undrafted free agent Dan Carpenter, a groin pull earlier thats plaguing him and partly because he spoke to the press about the Dolphins last year.

Jay better not blow it this time or it'll be a "Speedy Delivery" to the unemployment line... 

Coach Tony Sporano stated it was the sudden departure was "Purely because of the numbers." but the 32 yr old Feely set the team single season record for field goal percentage last year.

The Chiefs hope they have solved their kicking problems, but like that pesky know it all mail man from Mr. Roger’s neighborhood, they’ll be back.

Feely's contract is good for one year.

                                              San Diego Chargers

It's early, but Cooper and Merriman could miss Oakland match up

 

                        Charger LB Shawne Merriman: "It...hurts... when...I ...do...THIS!!!

                   Photo Matt A Brown Icon SMI

At this point, Merriman’s knee is anywhere from a minor tweak that could be rehabed or scoped, to a season ending 9 month reconstruction.

Specialists in New York took a look at it, but those results aren’t known.

Merriman is very smart not to trust team doctors who sent Center Nick Harwick back into action last year only to find his injury was much more serious than thought.

Word on whether his wife has forgiven the physician who mis-diagnosed is unknown, but the answer is probably no.

Due to the severity of his foot injury, the Hardwick’s tropical vacation had to be cancel at the last minute and surgery scheduled instead.

As it stands, the Chargers have the kind of depth Lane Kiffin would drool over and if they have to replace the 6-4, 274 lb. Merriman short term they probably can get by, but they’ll be doing it without the aid of 6-1, 235 lb. Line backer Stephen Cooper, who has been suspended 4 games for the use of a banned substance, reportedly, Ephedra.

Suspended LB Stephen Cooper " Say, did you know Ephedra was banned?"

Photo: Mike Nowak San Diego Chargers

Merriman could be back in time for the regular season if it’s as minor as the Chargers medical staff thinks, but if indeed the tear to his PCL has caused damage elsewhere, his down time could be longer.

That could leave the Chargers with out the services of 3 time Pro Bowler Merriman and 6 yr vet Stephen Cooper against the Raiders.

Cooper’s not eligible for reinstatement until September 29^th following their match up with Oakland.

Raider fans and Chargers will be watching this closely.

Merriman has been a terror against most teams including Oakland and his absence would be welcomed by a shaky Raider O line.

                                                    Denver Broncos

Banged up Broncos should be ready for Raiders

                                                                 Center Tom Nalen hopes to be ready for the Oakland opener

Center Casey Wiegmann has done a good job so far filling in for Denver monument Tom Nalen and will have to continue as 16 year vet Nalen recovers from arthroscopic knee surgery.

It will likely keep him out until the regular season.

Not a huge deal. Nalen certainly has the experience, but this latest injury is an indicator his time on the line is winding down.

Rookie Ryan Torain’s broken elbow has cost him valuable snaps. He is expected to be a major contributor for the Broncos "running back by committee" game plan.

Fellow RB Anthony Aldridge suffered a minor tweak to his hammy week 2 and its something Denver trainers will need to watch.

FB Peyton Hillis missed the first 2 weeks of camp with his hamstring injury and is expected to be a big part of Denver’s game. He’s back in the line up for now and looks all right.

Wide receiver Darrell Jackson rolled his ankle on the 16th, but its not thought to be serious.

TE Daniel Graham has a lingering hamstring pull.

Safety Josh Barnett was helped off the field last Saturday against the Cowboys after rolling his ankle on the opening kick off.

Ancient vet and former Raider Tyrone Poole signed with the Broncos after Hamza Abdullah’s groin injury. Hamza rode the pine with DB legend Champ Bailey who’ll stay on the sidelines with a hamstring until the season starts.

His brother Boss Bailey has a high ankle sprain, but plans to be ready for the season opener too.

Luis Green who suffered a neck injury against the Texans, figures to be back any day.

The Broncos have suffered some dings, but its pre season and its to be expected. Other than Torain and barring the unforseen, they should be in decent shape for their September 8^th meeting in Oakland.

                                               Kansas City Chiefs

From Kicker to QB KC's O has Questions

                                                                                             Kickers Nick Novak (left) and Connor Barth        

Brody Croyle frankly, has looked appalling at times this pre season and yet the 3^rd year, 3^rd rounder is likely "the man" when the season starts.

Croyle seems to take one step forward and 2 steps back. You can actually see his brain shut off on occasion as he wings one up for grabs or dances comically with a running back after blowing an ill advised audible.

Chiefs fans should thank their lucky stars for Larry Johnson.

The big man can rumble and he looks to be back in fighting trim. The 6-1, 230 lb. 6^th year man from Papa Joe’s Penn State could be looking at another 1,000 yd + season.

That sounds peculiar to those familiar with KC’s offensive line woes, but if rookie 1^st round draft pick (15^th overall) Brandon Albert is anything like analysts figured him to be before the draft, the Chiefs could have a serious left side to run to.

Right now, former 6^th round pick Herb Taylor is filling for Albert who rolled his ankle earlier in camp.

Missing invaluable snaps in camp will hurt him, but his power and quickness in the run game could be a major threat when coupled with all pro guard Brian Waters.

With Taylor at his side, Waters has helped create massive running lanes for Johnson. Granted, it is pre season, but when Albert settles in, its not hard to imagine Johnson reeling off big gainers.

And that would be music to Croyle and Coach Herm Edwards.

Center Rudy Niswanger is looking like a serviceable starter, but the man working next to him, 5 yr vet Adrian Jones looks terrible. He’s listed as a Tackle, but with Albert out, the line is all over the place.

The right side looks quite the opposite of the left with right tackle Damion McIntosh missing a lot of practice time with injuries.

With the way KC’s line is, its not difficult to imagine who ever starts at QB could get injured at some point. The Chiefs have stalwart back up and 12 yr veteran Damon Huard, but if the run game falters or Johnson gets injured, KC could be sunk.

As insurance against this, the Chiefs drafted 6-1, 205 lb Jamaal Charles out of Texas with its 2008 3^rd round pick.

At 5-11, 200 lbs. Charles is lighting fast and despite a slow start and some inconsistencies in College, exploded in the back half of his Junior year running for 997 yds and scoring 10 TDs in his final 5 games.

One knock on the former track sprinter is his tendency to put the ball on the ground. They’re working on it to be sure, but it will be a concern if he starts seeing a lot of reps.

Kolby Smith put in time last year at RB and will likely see reps too.

6-1, 215 lb wide out Devard Darling could develop this year if anyone can throw the ball to him.

Former LSU star Dwayne Bowe turned heads last year and could have a break out year, again, if there is anyone who can throw it to him.

Of course at TE the Chiefs have HOF shoe in, Tony Gonzales and surprising young rookie Brad Cottam has shown some decent hands in the early going.

After the spectacular failure of kicker Justin Medlock last season and the subsequent failure of replacement Dave Rayner, the Chiefs are not much closer to finding a solid starter.

You can bet they'll be watching closely to see what happens to current Raider fill in kicker Aaron Elling when roster cut downs begin.

Competing for the roster slot are kickers Nick Novak and Connor Barth.

Novak has the edge with 16 games of NFL experience since 2005 and rookie Barth out of NC has none , but Novak has done little to separate himself.

Barth nailed a 37 yarder that tied last weeks game with Chicago, but Coach Edwards isn’t happy with their kick offs.

He stated Tuesday:

"It’s a 50-50 shot for both guys."

As all kickers know, thats not a very good percentage, but based solely on the offense, the odds of KC making a post season trip this year seem a lot longer.

                               
                                                     Denver Broncos

Breaking down the Broncos: Denver vs. Houston

 

The Broncos finished the night with 276 yds total offense but committed 12 penalties for -80 yds and turned the ball over twice.

Cutler looked good, completing 8 of 10 and scrambling left to cap a drive for 15 yds and a TD.

Even the announcers noted most of the plays weren’t a credit to Denver, but a dis credit to the Texans secondary.

Cutler is for real, but on the side line during an interview his face looked puffy.

He may have had the off season and part of last to get a handle on his diabetes, but it can be taxing even on a professional athlete.

We’ll have to see how he holds up over the grueling season behind a thin and questionable line. If he goes down, so do the Broncos chances of winning.

Back up Patrick Ramsey came in and accounted for Denver’s 2 turn overs, both interceptions.

TE Tony Scheffler looked good and thats promising news for Bronco fans. His foot injury appeared to be fine.

He finished a limited action night with 3 grabs for 47 yds, one of them a 38 yarder.

Denver’s running game has always thrived behind mid level running backs, but they are thinner than ever with the loss of Travis Henry and rookie Ryan Torain’s broken elbow.

Andre Hall came in after Selvin Young’s lack luster outing and was immediately productive on consecutive carries including a 14 yarder.

Michael Pittman faired poorly in compare and minus a 19 yd burst off right end against the 3^rd string, Anthony Aldridge looked even worse.

"1^st stringer" is a misnomer in Denver for their running back by committee approach, but their projected work horse and starter is Selvin Young. His first touch of the game came on the second play, where he was dropped by LB Demecco Ryans and Mario Williams.

The two absolutely destroyed rookie LT Ryan Clady, flying past him virtually unchallenged and dropping Young for a loss of 5.

He finished his brief appearance with 4 carries for 3 yds.

Clady looked overwhelmed and out matched even against the Texans second string. At 2:22 in the 2^nd quarter on a third down, Clady got away with a blatant hold he had to make, because he was beaten again.

Over on the right side, things were much worse. 6-5, 300 lb 2^nd year man Ryan Harris drew 4 flags at right tackle.

The Broncos line at this point, looks like it is in serious trouble.

The Broncos new kicker started with career experience consisting of 1 of 4 field goal attempts.

Attempting to fill the mighty big shoes of Jason Elam, 2^nd year kicker Matt Prater missed his first attempt wide right from 29 yds out, but managed the next 3 including a 38 yarder.

We’ll see how he does when he’s not in a dome. Kicking in the weather at Mile High could be a little different experience.

Eddie Royal made 2 catches but wasn’t given the opportunity to look special. He could be though.

Troubled wide out Brandon Marshall caught 2 for 9 yds and was done. He’ll sit out the 1^st two regular season games for being arrested 3 times in the last year.

The defense looked lack luster, committing penalties and suffering injuries. Champ Bailey sat out with a hammy and newly acquired LB help Boss Bailey went down after rolling an ankle.

His replacement Louis Green left the field on a stretcher afer a violent collision with converging team mate D.J. Williams.

He is said to have suffered a mild concussion, but was released from the hospital and reportedly flew home with the team.

LB Wesley Woodyard gets kudos for 8 tackles, but the defense drew too many flags and seems to lack depth, especially in light of new injuries.

CB Dominique Foxworth looked sharp, but Texans 1^st string QB (kind of) Sage Rosenfels threw for 137 yds and a TD with out Bailey on the field. Bly was a non factor.

Theres plenty of time before the season starts, but the Broncos need to get healthy and figure out their offensive line and linebackers. The D line also remains a question.

They expect a lot of 2^nd year DE Jarvis Moss. He didn’t deliver in Houston. In limited action, he looked gassed and was off sides, though it was never called.

Until he starts producing, it looks like he might have been a risky pick that isn’t paying off.

DT Marcus Thomas had one tackle in limited action, but if he can stay off drugs and out of trouble could make a difference in Denvers run D this year. Combined with extremely limited action from former Jet DT DeWayne Robertson, they may have a chance at clogging the middle. At least as long as Robertson’s knees hold and the Broncos can keep decent LB’s upright.

Denver could still compete this year, but it will be more through luck and guile than competence, talent and skill.

Serious questions remain about their new defense and their bad mix of very old and very new offensive linemen.

                                                     Denver Broncos

Broncos Woes: RB Torian out with Broken Elbow, O line in Flux

Torain at ASU 

The hits just keep coming.

After ditching the soon after suspended Travis Henry earlier in the off season, the Broncos felt they could get by with their zone blocking system, known for propelling mid level backs to thousand yard seasons.

Maybe they still can, but it won't be with 5th round pick Ryan Torain.

At least not as soon as they'd hoped.

Torain had a strong showing in camp, but the brittle back sustained a broken elbow in this mornings practice and had to be assisted off the field.

Coach Mike Shanahan praised him draft day as having "First round ability", but injury concerns that saw him fall to the 5th appear to be justified.

Out 6-8 crucial weeks

The Broncos signed Torain to a 4 yr. contract on July 9th but only offered a $200,000 signing bonus.

The Broncos have had trouble with their running backs of late including the forgettable Maurice Clarrett, Henry and now Torain.

RB Selvin Young could become the focal point now along with Michael Hall,  Anthony Aldridge and Michael Pittman.

The loss of Torain doesn't seem like a major blow to Denver's "running back by committee" approach, but the ASU back had performed well in camp and was expected to challenge for the starting job as soon as this year.

With one less back, Denvers approach to the ground game becomes less viable and even though Torain is expected to miss only 6-8 weeks, they are critical weeks the rookie needed to learn the system and get valuable reps. In light of his, they may look to add some depth. 

Running back injuries aren't the only concern. Denver's stalwart Center Tom Nalen missed alot of reps in pre season recovering from surgery on his left knee.

Veteran Center Casey Wiegemann becomes crucial as Nalen's 16yr. career winds down, but Wiegmann is no spring chicken himself entering year 13 after spending the last 7 with division rival KC.

Center Casey Wiegmann

He has been a solid starter for 111 games, the longest streak for any active player at his position, but he is still entering the twilight of his career as well and who will eventually take over the critical spot in the years to come needs to be addressed. Until it is, it will remain a nagging question for the Broncos and its fans.

Whether they choose to realize it or not, the fact remains, Denvers entire O line is in question.

The only lineman returning in 08 that started all 16 games last year is Montrae Holland who showed up to camp so fat and out of shape they refuse to let him on the practice field. He's been replaced by Chris Kuper who played left guard last season.

2nd year man Ryan Harris is at right guard replacing last years starter there Eric Pears who is now a back up behind 2008 1st round DP Ryan Clady on the blind side.

After missing an entire season with a devastating concussion and its after effects, Ben Hamilton returns to left guard.

Even with the zone blocking system and the running back by committee approach, things aren't looking good for the Broncos.

With its line questions and problems in the back field, Denver's bread and butter, the ground game, could be in trouble.

                                                                         

                                                Kansas City Chiefs

Why Pennington to KC could be a $ 6 million dollar mistake

I'm...leavin' town! 

Before the ink was dry on Brett Favre’s contract, talk of dumping Chad Pennington began.

According to some NFL insiders *ahem* (Adam Schefter) the "logical" place for him to go would be...

Kansas City.

Certainly they are in need of a quarter back, Brodie Croyle entering his 3^rd year still demonstrates poor reads, misfires and a lack of composure that costs games.

Still, its not entirely his fault.

KC’s line is piece meal at best with guys rotating in and out left and right, its no wonder they were last in the League in pass protection.

At one time their offensive line was thought of as a its strength garnering Pro Bowl births for its line men 22 times in 16 years, but the wheels fell off as Hall of Fame candidates Willie Roaf and Will Shields finally retired.

The death knell sounded last season as the Chiefs line play was largely responsible for its abysmal 4-12 finish.

Gone are the remnants of 07's patched together unit with 3 of last years starters and 2 back ups off the roster and new bodies where added.

He may be "The Herminator" but signing Chad Pennington "DOES NOT COMPUTE!!!"

The Chiefs burned the 15^th selection of this Aprils draft on G/T Branden Albert out of VT and hoped to slap him in as the blind side protector, but that seemed far fetched to people who felt he could very well be over hyped.

Analysts like NFLN’s Mike Mayock felt Albert should enter the League at Guard and Mayock was one of his biggest proponents.

Working against him and the Chiefs is the injury he suffered this week to his ankle. Nothing major and he’s expected to recover fully, but with KC’s make shift line, Albert was needed and expected to play right away, meaning he needed all the field time and reps he could get.

Forced to sit, he could miss up to 3 weeks.

Time he and KC can ill afford to lose.

Why?

Because guys like Wade Smith (unrestricted free agent) Adrian Jones (waivers) and Anthony Alabi (waivers) hardly strike fear in the hearts of defensive line men.

Thats a far cry from last years decision to go with guys who had "At least 80 starts."

Among their choices, Chris Terry, Kyle Turley, John Welbourne and Casey Wiegmann all but one is retired. Wiegmann signed a 2 year deal with Denver to back up 16 yr vet Tom Nalen.

Needless to say, this strategy of hiring wiley vets failed miserably as they all showed their age and deterioration of skills.

After 07', the Chiefs decided to throw the baby out with the bath water and a new offensive coordinator was brought in. Chan Gailey’s choice of line men is the traditional, brute force straight line blockers like the ones he had in Dallas. Unfortunately, the Cowboy’s line was populated with All Pro’s like Flozel Adams, Nate Newton and Larry Allen.

Despite massive gaps along its offensive line, the Chiefs passed on free agents, citing last years debacle as reason not to sign long term deal with anyone "Over 30."

Younger players with experience like 26 yr. old Justin Smiley and 27 yr old Jake Scott, according to Edwards "Weren’t system fits." Both players have extensive starting experience, but ended up with Miami and Tennessee instead.

As it stands the starting line up this year will most likely look like this.

Rudy Niswanger is set to start at Center. He’s smart enough to play many positions, but is the proverbial "Jack of all Trades." His limited football experience is with the Chiefs, but in 2006, he blew his knee out in mid December.

Veteran guard Brian Waters may be the only strong point along the line. The former Pro Bowler started all 16 games last year and has been a rock. He enters season 9 with the Chiefs, but, *gasp!* turned 31 in February.

The aforementioned waiver pick up Adrian Jones will share time with 07' 6th round pick Herb Taylor who'll fill for Albert along the line with Damion McIntosh who battled knee and ankle problems all last year.

Speaking of injuries,

Nov 16, 2007 Ankle

Nov 02, 2007 Ankle

Oct 26, 2007 Ankle

Oct 19, 2007 Ankle

Oct 12, 2007 Ankle

Oct 05, 2007 Ankle

Sep 28, 2007 Ankle

Sep 21, 2007 Ankle

Sep 14, 2007 Ankle

Sep 10, 2007 Right leg

Sep 07, 2007 Pelvis

Jan 03, 2007 Calf

Dec 27, 2006 Calf

Dec 20, 2006 Calf

Dec 13, 2006 Calf

Dec 06, 2006 Calf

Nov 29, 2006 Calf

Nov 22, 2006 Calf

Nov 15, 2006 Calf

Nov 08, 2006 Calf

Oct 25, 2006 Calf

Oct 18, 2006 Calf

Oct 11, 2006 Calf

Oct 04, 2006 Calf

Sep 27, 2006 Calf

Sep 20, 2006 Calf

Oct 31, 2005 Right shoulder

Oct 31, 2005 Right shoulder

Oct 19, 2005 Right Shoulder

Oct 12, 2005 Right Shoulder

Oct 05, 2005 Right Shoulder

Sep 28, 2005 Right Shoulder

Jan 12, 2005 Illness

Dec 01, 2004 Right shoulder

Nov 24, 2004 Right shoulder

Nov 17, 2004 Right shoulder

Nov 10, 2004 Right shoulder

Oct 08, 2003 Wrist

Sep 24, 2003 Wrist

Sep 17, 2003 Wrist

Sep 10, 2003 Wrist

Sep 03, 2003 Wrist

       
         "I can't lower my arm!"

The 6-3, 220 lb. Pennington has shown he’s tough coming back from 2 surgeries to a seriously torn rotator cuff and bone spur  earlier in his career.

He actually finished an entire season up right in 06', but a high ankle sprain in game one of 07' raised the specter of his health again. After tossing several costly picks he was benched and a QB controversy settled over the Jets.

Low and behold, after reloading their team and declaring a QB competition between Pennington and last years fill in Kellen Clemens, the Jets work a super deal and snag Lambeau Legend Brett Favre just before the pre season.

Refusing to renegotiate his contract and expecting to earn $ 12 million dollars this year, the Jets have to clear some cap room and that leaves Pennington, who signed a 7 yr. $62 million dollar contract in 04, on the hot seat. His current contract would see him due right around $ 6 million for 08'.

Or half of what they need to scrape up for Brett Favre.

Do the math and that equals Chad Pennington looking for work as pre season opens.

Of course the whole point of this is to point out what a bad idea it is for the Chiefs to consider Chad Pennington.

First of all, they may have cap space, or Chad may re-structure if KC is interested, but given Pennington’s fragility and the Chiefs mess of an O line, combining the two seems like even more of a recipe for disaster.

With the Chiefs vaunted running game derailed and ranking 30^th in most major rushing categories, the Chiefs line can no longer guarantee a solid ground attack to help a QB with play action and they certainly aren’t a lock to protect him either.

Remember, Albert is a rookie. A rookie who’s missed camp time and most likely the pre season opener.

Given Pennington’s dainty arm and less than Farvian durability, the Chiefs shelling out money for Fragile Chad could be the final mis-step that sends KC tumbling into the AFC basement.

If they’re not already there.

Ironically, the safest place for Chad with the best chance for  success is behind an All Pro line...like the one he'll be leaving in New York.

                                                              Denver Broncos

orig. posted 07-24-08, 11:11 pm, by Mykle Van Hausen

UPDATED: 08-04-08             

Bronco's "Baby T.O." in Big Trouble

 Mug shot from Denver Police related to Oct. D.U.I arrest 

Summoned to New York last week, "Baby T.O.", mischevious Bronco wide out Brandon Marshall, met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to discuss the 24 yr. olds off field behavior.

Besides being the instigator of a fight that left beloved Bronco Corner back Darrent Williams shot to death on New Years Eve 2007, Marshall has continued his reckless ways.

Marshall has been arrested 3 times this off season.

The gifted wide receiver came into his own last year, becoming a favorite target of young gunslinging, quarterback Jay Cutler.

Finishing the year with 102 catches for 1,325 yds and 7 TDs the 6-4, 230 lb Marshall established himself as a serious threat to corners around the League and though he’s no Chris Henry, unfortunately, he’s establishing himself as a serious threat to his own career.

Whether Goodell will suspend the wayward receiver is still unknown, but some feel last weeks meeting was more of a "last chance" warning than a meeting to discuss penalty imposition.

Still, NFL Networks Adam Schefter feels the brash young wide out could be suspended as many as 3 games for violating League conduct policy.

Suffice it to say, if Marshall falls astray of the law again, his season and possibly career, could be in jeopardy.

In stark contrast, walking the straight and narrow has been Denver legend wide receiver Rod Smith, who has tried to mentor the 24 year old Marshall, but how much of a role Smith will have comes into question after announcing his retirement this week.

Keeping Marshall off police reports is one thing, keeping him focused on football is another and could be even harder, because he is due in court this September for a D.U.I. arrest last October.

 Brandon Marshall

Though doctors say the arm Marshall slashed to the bone wrestling with a cousin while on break in Florida is healing, it remains to be seen if the injury will affect the fine motor skills and supple hands it takes to haul in touch passes and rocket shots from the ironically named "Cutler".

Smith’s retirement and Thursdays news from the Denver Post about Marshall’s meeting, could leave an already questionable Bronco receiving corps unquestionably, in serious trouble.

Almost as much as Marshall himself.

UPDATE: 08-04-08 Marshall will serve a 3 game suspension for violation of League conduct policy, but that could be reduced to 2 games if he attends counceling during the suspension.

Marshall will miss the season opener against the Raiders and the 2nd week against the Chargers.

http://cbs4denver.com/sports/Brandon.Marshall.arrest.2.758414.html

http://cbs4denver.com/local/denver.colorado.broncos.2.562973.html

http://origin.denverpost.com/sports/ci_9817294

                                                                       
                                                                        Kansas City Chiefs

 Dorsey down, Albert out

 Dorsey draft day

What a difference a week makes.

Last Saturday, Glen Dorsey became a millionaire 22 times over, signing a 5 yr. $51 million dollar deal, with $22 million guaranteed.

 This Saturday, one week later, NFL Network is reporting Dorsey has injured his left knee and will undergo an MRI.

 At this stage they're calling the injury a "sprain" and it may very well be.

Too early to tell.

KC struggled with the depletion of their once HOF O line and with the trade of Jared Allen to Minnesota this off season, Glen Dorsey is seen as the corner stone of rebuilding on the defensive side of the ball.

  Dorsey at LSU

 Whether critics of Dorsey who were wary of taking him high before the draft are proven right is purely speculative at this phase, but Dorsey has suffered leg injuries before.

It may come as cold comfort for KC, but at least the injury didn't occur to his right leg, the leg Dorsey suffered a stress fracture in during the 06' season.

He played through the pain with the help of injections, but wary scouts called into question whether there were lingering affects.

Dorsey had trouble with his right leg again in 2007 and wore a huge brace on his knee after suffering an illegal chop block in an October 20th match up with Auburn.

He re-injured the knee 13 days later against Alabama and then sat out 14 days later with a sore back, missing most of the Mississippi contest.

Dorsey could have a minor injury like his team mate and fellow high draft pick Branden Albert.

Albert tweaked an ankle yesterday and is expected to miss several weeks of crucial O line work outs.

  Dorsey's team mate, Branden Albert

Dorsey could be back on the field before him depending on his MRI, but it will likely be Monday before more is known.

Either way, this is terrible news for a Chiefs team in transition and in need of solid play on both sides of the line by its high picks in April's draft.

UPDATE: 11:00 am Monday 08-04-08

"An MRI exam showed no additional damage, the Chiefs said Monday at training camp in River Falls, Wis."

Dorsey is expected to miss a week.

                                                         
                                                          Kansas City Chiefs

 1st round line man Branden Albert out for weeks.

Though he can ill afford to miss time in camp the depleted Kansas City O line will be with out rookie 12th overall pick Branden Albert who sprained his foot during a Thursday practice with the Minnesota Vikings.

The injury was originally reported as a sprained ankle.

Coach Herm Edwards calls him "day to day" but conceeds, he likely will miss at least the pre season opener.

Bad news for Albert and the desperate Chiefs who planned on dumping the ill equiped Albert into the fire at left tackle even though many analysts felt he would be better suited at guard, at least early on in his pro career.

 Albert at VT

Chiefs staff members don't expect Albert back before August 15th citing guard Brian Waters suffered a similar injury 2 years ago and was out for 3 weeks.

Now occupying the critical blind side is last seasons 6th round pick Herb Taylor who's NFL experience consists of one game appearance.

Taylor, a sixth-round draft pick last season, replaced Albert in practice Friday.

                                                          Kansas City Cheifs

Chiefs could replace Oakland as AFC's Worst 

 Damon Huard runs for his life

Last years 4-12 finish and the fact their Hall of Fame line has finally succumbed to age and retirement has the Cheifs scrambling to rebuild. Top sports writers see them making a bid for the AFC West cellar in 08'.

They started off well with 12 picks in the draft and have signed top picks G Albert, DT Dorsey and CB Flowers who could start right away.

 5th overall pick DT Glen Dorsey

KC will need them. 

Praised for having the best draft in 08', the Chiefs will still likely struggle to bring their rookies up to speed and piece together depth at key positions.

While they have Tamba Hali, they will miss last year top pass rusher Jared Allen who departed for Minnesota.

Even with vets like Tony Gonzales and Larry Johnson capable of offense, KC's interior lines are shaky at best and their secondary, even with Flowers, is clearly the worst of an unusually talented AFC West.

 Unless something major happens, KC could replace Oakland as the divisions cellar dweller.

                                                              Denver Broncos

Lynch Released: Former Denver Head Hunter now hunts for work 

orig. published 07-30-08

 Safety John Lynch
 

Apparently Bronco Safety John Lynch asked for his release Tuesday night and was excused from Wednesday's workouts. He received permission from coach Mike Shanahan to leave camp to seek employment elsewhere..

Lynch was talked out of retiring in March, Lynch instead of hanging it up, he took a pay cut to return for one more season. At training camp, however, Lynch has been losing time to Marlon McCree and Hamza Abdullah. Noticably, he received even fewer plays than usual with the Broncos' first unit on Tuesday.

Lynch will probably look to sign with another team, but if he can't find one, he may heed the words of McArthur.

"Old soldiers never die. They just fade away."

 Then again, lynch has never been a quitter and if injuries occur, teams may take a second look at the 9 time pro bowler.

                                                                             Denver Broncos

Broncos lock up 12th overall pick, but Clady not a lock at LT 

Clady goes from the Broncos to Broncos and snagged a big pay day this Friday, but is he the answer at left tackle?

Maybe not.

At least not right away.

 Denver's newest lineman Ryan Clady

The Broncos announced Friday they’ve inked former Boise State left tackle Ryan Clady to a 5 year, $14.75 million dollar deal with $11.415 million in guarantees.

The money may be a sure thing, but his position at left tackle is not.

At least not yet...

Clady is an experienced 3 year starter and played both tackle spots for the Boise State Broncos and should start immediately for Denver's aging and challenged O line.

He should eventually protect QB Jay Cutler’s blind side, but will have to work on his concentration. At times he loses focus, misses assignments and draws flags. Due to this and other certain deficiencies in his game, Denver may have to start him on the right. Some have even speculated moving him inside, but it is way too early to know what he's capable of yet and whether such drastic measures would even be necessary.

What is necessary is the infusion of new talent along an injury riddled, aging and depleted squad.

Clady will play, its just likely not decided where yet. Tackle is where they'll need him sooner rather than later, but it would benefit him if he's not forced to be the Franchise lineman just yet.

He is agile and quick for a big man, can slide out smoothly in pass protection to take care of speedy edge rushers, but gets blown up by bull rushers because of under developed lower body strength.

He has great technique and long arms to keep defenders at bay, but struggles when on an island.

The 6-6, 319 lb Clady blocks well on sweeps and shows good patience, but again, lack of strength, at least initially, will hamper him in close and one on one.

He struggles in man on man confrontations because of his lack of strength and "needs to get nastier" especially in run blocking, but has great size and athleticism to grow and put on muscle, but for now, he’ll need to keep hitting the weight pile.

Denver may have gotten a solid enough line man for its 12 th overall pick in the draft, but unless he has a stellar camp, those that believe Clady’s their starting left tackle are probably mistaken.

And if they're not, its probably a pretty good indicator of one of two things.

Either the Broncos think he's ready, or the Broncos have no better choice.

                                                                       San Diego Chargers

Deal for DT Castillo may bite San Diego 

The Chargers went all in on Luis Castillo today offering the injury prone DT a deal that could be worth $43 million dollars.

 The deal is an extension of his contract signed in 2005 and should secure Castillo through out the 2014 season and likely the rest of his pro career.

Castillo first ran into trouble at the 2005 scouting combine when he tested positve for androstenedione, considered a steroid.

Castillo wrote all 32 teams with an apology claiming it was used to help a lingering elbow injury.

He has remained clean so far and despite chronic ankle problems, the Chargers have decided to lock him up.

It  seems the Chargers have been very good at keeping a core of solid players together, signing DT Ryon Bingham to a 3 yr. contract extension last December. San Diego has a reputation of late for keeping its guys together which is something unusual during the era of free agency, but the signing of Castillo may have made a mistake.

Castillo is a fine player and a solid anchor in the middle of San Diego's defense, but big men with chronic ankle problems are usually, (pardon the pun) "on their last legs.", 

With over $17.5  million in signing and roster bonuses, the hit won't cripple the Chargers if he falls, but it certainly won't help.

Castillo has had 13 sacks in 33 starts, but only 2 .5 last year. He missed six games in 07' due to ankle injuries, but returned in the play offs where the Chargers eventually lost the AFC Championship. 

                                                              Denver Broncos

Royal signing sets up Showdown

Thanks to todays signing by Denver, one of the more interesting match ups when the Broncos travel to Oakland this August 8^th will be the special teams face off of Oaklands 4^th round pick, safety Tyvon Branch versus Denver’s 2^nd round snag Eddie Royal.

 New addition: P/K specialist Eddie Royal

Royal was a surprise to most, taken off the board with the 42^nd selection of the 2008 draft.

With wide outs like Limas Sweed, DeSean Jackson, Malcolm Kelly and Dexter Jackson still on the board, the Broncos opted instead for the former VT kick return specialist.

The fact Royal will not likely be a starting wide out for Denver anytime soon makes the selection seem all the more unusual.

Denver had parted ways with disgruntled wide out Javon Walker this off season and their star in the making wide out Brandon Marshall, had nearly severed his arm one month before the draft, yet Denver left arguably more "game ready" wide outs on the board.

Magnifying the Broncos wide out woes was a busy day of shuffling for their receiving corps. As Royal signed, the Broncos parted ways with replacement try out Sammie Parker.

To top matters off, ailing Bronco wide receiver Rod Smith announced a press conference where its thought he’ll announce his retirement.

Indications are, Marshall will be back in time for the Monday night season opener, but with the very average Keary Colbert, and Brandon Stokely as the likely XY and Z options, quarterback Jay Cutler’s targets appear to be limited.

Throw in the fact out standing receiving TE Tony Scheffler is out with a chronic, possibly career threatening foot injury and things start to look bleak indeed.

Regarding Royal, some Denver fans have speculated, perhaps Shanahan caught "Hester fever".

Still, with dwindling options for the strong armed Jay Cutler, Royal’s signing comes as little relief or solace.

He is considered by some (even among the Broncos) as little more than a return specialist.

Because his diminutive stature, it will make it hard for him to beat bump and run. Add this to the fact he’s not a solid blocker and runs poor routes and your left with a guy who’s gifts give him potential to play wide out, but probably not for quite a while.

During day two of the draft I mentioned Royal may have had a hand in Oaklands decision to move up in the 4^th round to take Connecticut safety / cornerback Tyvon Branch, ("Tyvon Branch: Eddie Royal Foil")

The idea was scoffed at by some until they did their home work and found Branch "...could be the best gunner in the League day one."

Many dismissed the pick simply as " crazy Al Davis wasting yet another DP on a DB." but the reality of it, in my opinion is Branch was taken with the 100^th pick at least in part because Denver’s unusually high selection of Royal may have tipped their hand.

 Raider Gunner Tyvon Branch

The Raiders have struggled for years with uneven special teams play and if Devin Hester showed us anything last year,"special teams can change games."

This key back ground match up could be interesting to watch as arguably two of the best special teams players to come out of the 08' draft square off against each other for the first of what could be many more times to come.

Kick off is scheduled at 7:15 PM pacific time, August 8^th, Monday night in the Oakland Coliseum.

                                                                The Kansas City Chiefs

KC may have a had a great draft, but they've yet to sign the ones that matter*

UPDATE: 07-26-08

Though none of their top draft picks are signed yet, the Kansas City Chiefs are considered to have had the best draft in 2007.

And they need it.

Choosing to shore the lines on both sides of the ball, with its first of two 1^st round picks, the Chiefs selected LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey 5^th overall. Dorsey looked dominant college, but was hampered by rumors, injury and for missing the 2007 combine because of "personal issues".

Some speculate he may in fact have lingering injury problems and he remains unsigned as of this date. Critics think he was also the beneficiary of LSU’s gang tackling defensive style, but Dorsey could grow into one of the best DT’s in the game if he can put the rumors to rest and come to an agreement over his contract.

KC has managed to sign 6 of its 12 draft picks but including Dorsey, none of the "big ticket" players are on board, their second round choice CB Brandon Flowers or 12^th overall selection Branden Albert, the 6-6, 309 lb. Guard / Tackle out of Virginia. Albert’s stock flew up the boards in part due to coverage by NFL Network and analyst Mike Mayock.

Some feel Albert is an excellent choice capable of playing either, but Guard is the position that likely suits him best at least early on.

Unfortunately for the Chiefs, it appears preliminarily, Kansas City will start him at left tackle where the youngster could struggle.

Not that they have a choice.

The departure of HOF veterans like Willie Roaf and Will Shields over the past two seasons leaves the Chiefs wanting along the offensive line.

Damion McIntosh was a disappointment and Kyle Turley is old, but KC could get some production out of Larry Johnson and , if they get him signed.

Chiefs President Carl Peterson announced Friday the signing of 2007 5^th round draft pick RB Colby Smith to a 3 year contract, but Jaamal Charles is the more intriguing pick at running back this year, with his blazing speed on the edges.

Adding to their woes was the departure this off season of their starting center, 13 yr vet Casey Wiegmann to division rival Denver.

Thin in the secondary as well, locking down Flowers is a priority too.

Unhappy Safety Greg Wesley got his wish and was finally released.

Former KC Safety Greg Wesley

Rumor has it, he’ll be visiting Oakland today.

* Interestingly enough, NFL Network featured a story that had to do with Glen Dorsey not being signed yet.

If you look, you'll find RNS is usually ahead of the curve.

Not gloating. Just simple, demonstrable fact.

*UPDATE: 07-23-08 NFL Network announced this morning signing of CB Brandon Flowers.

*UPDATE: Chiefs sign Branden "Fat" Albert to undisclosed 5 yr. deal.

*UPDATE: The domino’s began to fall earlier this week and finish today as the Chiefs locked up the last big piece in their bid to rebuild through the draft by securing 5^th overall selection DT Glen Dorsey with a $51 million dollar contract.

2^nd round pick CB Brandon Flowers and 1^st round pick Brandon Albert signed earlier this week after securing former Tennessee tight end Brad Cottam and a player I feel could be instrumental to helping the Chiefs out of their last place finish in rushing last year, the speedy back out of Texas, 3^rd round pick, Jamaal Charles.

Now that the table is set, we’ll begin to look at when and how soon these players can be expected to help their beleaguered and rebuilding franchise.

                                                                       San Diego Chargers

 Chargers 07' injuries could come front and Center in 08'

Earned or not the Chargers face one of the easiest schedules of anyone in 08'. In fact, the only other team with a softer schedule?

The New England Patriots.

I seem to recall something about the Raiders gaining an easy schedule after their hot streak of multiple Championship games and apparently, consistency pays off in the NFL, but really, if your that good...

Questions remain about the health of the team. Phillip Rivers off season knee surgery and L.T.s wounded knee that kept hi out of the crucial Championship game of course, but one some might not realize could have a very large impact indeed.

In the off season Charger Center Nick Hardwick cancelled a lengthy tropical vacation to have surgery on his foot.

Hardwick sprained the foot last year in a November win against the Raiders.

He missed four weeks, but returned to action after a Specialist cleared him to play. He played six more games that year including the play offs, but came to realize the injury was much more severe than originally diagnosed.

Rehab could see him ready in time for camps or shortly after, but he’ll be one to watch especially considering the loss of FB Lorenzo Neil who played no small part in Tomlinson and the Chargers success.

They’ll pin their hopes on FB Andrew Pinnock who showed promise last year and 3^rd round pick Jacob Hester, a quick bruiser out of LSU.

The Chargers wisely purchased some insurance should Hardwick not make it up to speed in time by signing former 49er / Raider Jeremy Newberry, but with his knees, it was considered a miracle by some he managed as many downs as he was forced to in Oakland last year.

Even with the rickety Newberry on board the Chargers would still miss Hardwick leadership because he makes the reads and calls out blocking assignments for the entire line.

If / when Newberry goes down and if Hardwick is unable again, the Chargers struggled behind 9 year vet Cory Withrow losing 2 out of the 4 games he started.

Still a very good team, San Diego showed weakness last year. Whether it was an aberration or a trend is something AFC West rivals and their fans will be watching closely.

Broncos in trouble in 08' after losing devastating Offensive weapon

 


Elam was the difference between 7-9 and 3-13, quite literally.

He finished the year 27 of 31for an 87.1% average including a 50 yarder.

Thats nothing compared to the record tying 63 yarder earlier in his career, adding to over 20, 000 points he put up for the Broncos during his time there. He also set the record, scoring more points for a single team than any other man in NFL history.

At least 215 of them against Oakland.

The 3 time Pro Bowler was originally drafted by the Broncos with the 70th selection overall in the 3rd round of the 1993 NFL Draft. Though taken in the 3rd round, he currently has his cleats on display in the NFL Hall of Fame, but starting in 2008, the record setting clutch kicker will be doing his scoring for the Atlanta Falcons.

Some will remember in March, the troubled Falcons signed him away with a 4 year, $9 million dollar contract with a reported $3.3 million guaranteed.

It didn't make much of a wave at the time, so how bad is the news for Denver?

It could be catastrophic. Elam literally held the Broncos from the edge of oblivion last year.             

                                                             

They may have improved their team enough to be more competitive than last year, but judging by their off season moves, it would be a surprise.

Elam is gone and odds are he will be missed.

Taking his place?

That will remain and unknown for now, but currently on the roster...

2nd year kicker out of Central Florida Matt Prater who has been dumped by Detroit, Miami, Atlanta(!) And Miami again before being “snagged” by the Broncs. His NFL experience consists of being 1 for 4 in 2 years with Atlanta.

Challenging him for the starting spot is rookie kicker Garrett Hartley from Oklahoma. Hartley, a free agent, has never kicked in an NFL game.

Last word had it the Broncos were drying out, I mean, "trying out" former Colt K Mike Vanderjagt, but were not impressed enough to sign.


Still early and anything can happen, but at this stage I’d say Elam’s departure bodes very well for the Silver and Black and could be an ominous portent of the decline to come in Denver.