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Footballguys.com Daily Email Update
Volume 4 Issue # 95
August 19, 2003
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. Pittsburgh: The OL is a Mess
2. QB Maddox: Looking Over His Shoulder at Batch
3. RB Staley: Interested in Bears
4. QB Hutchinson (Dal): One Game Audition, Thurs. Night
5. HC Jauron: Staley, Bears Aren't Actually Talking
6. Bears' New MLB: Andra Davis
7. RB Lee Suggs (Cle): Not Ready To Practice Yet
8. WR Ferguson: Locks Up #2 in Green Bay
9. WR Burleson (Min): Locking Up #3 for Vikings
10. RB Rhodes (Ind): Knee Still Hurting -- Headed for Second Opinion
11. WR Hatchette (Jax): Just Making Catches
12. DE Jevon Kearse (Ten): Still Tuning Up
13. RB Fargas: Gaining Confidence, Role in Oakland
14. PK Janikowski: Not in the Groove Yet
15. Ram's C Wohlabaugh: Fractured Thumb in Win
16. QB Warner: Looks Sharp in Win Over TB
17. 49'ers CB: Webster Out, Rumph In
18. Seattle QB Trent Dilfer: Back in Practice
19. Patriots OL: Lacina Added to Mix
20. QB Doug Johnson: Ready to Lead the Falcons
21. KR/WR Michael Bates (Caro): Not Guilty of DWI
22. Texans Acquire New Lead Blocker for Mack: Dolphin Deon Dyer
23. Tampa NT Anthony McFarland: Bucs Show Him The Money
24. Chicago Trades DT Ted Washington to New England - Staley Deal to Follow?

Hi Folks,

Thanks to Footballguy Mark Wimer for rounding up these stories tonight. Lots to bring to you so let's get right to it. But first, a real quick update on the $15,000 Footballguys.com Subscriber Contest. Full details are here. It's real simple. One of our subscribers will walk away with $15,000 this season. Entry into the contest is free for folks that subscribe to our Premium Subscription. For $24.95, you get all the info and insights of our service, plus a free entry into the contest. This isn't some giant corporate deal where 200,000 guys are vying to win $5,000. This is a Footballguys.com only contest where David and I are very simply putting up $15,000 for one of our subscribers to take home. Might as well be you...

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Now let's get to it.

Joe

1. Pittsburgh: The OL is a Mess

Clipped from: ESPN.com article by Len Pasquarelli

Should the offensive line situation here get any worse, assistant coach and onetime "Hog" member Russ Grimm might have to be fitted for a helmet. Three-plus weeks into camp, the unit is a mess, and one has to wonder if even a coach as good as Grimm can figure out a way to glue Humpty Dumpty together again. The ironic part is that the player who some observers felt would struggle the most, Marvel Smith, has performed very nicely in his switch from right tackle to the weak-side pass protection slot.

The Steelers invested $26 million in a contract extension as a reflection of how much confidence they have in Smith, who replaces the departed Wayne Gandy. So far, the money seems well spent. In Smith and standout guard Alan Faneca, the Steelers should be set on the left side. After that, though, nothing is settled. Center Jeff Hartings is still bothered by a balky knee and is going to have to be nursed through the season.

When the good news from the orthopedics specialist is that Hartings will have to take some practice time off, and stay on plenty of painkillers, that isn't a particularly promising prospect. Like predecessor Dermontti Dawson, the beauty of Hartings' game is that, typical of a former guard, he has some pull-and-move skills. But if his left knee is as bad as it sounds, with no cartilage to buffer against the bone-on-bone friction, Hartings isn't going to be able to move too well.

The right side of the line, which never consistently got into a rhythm on Saturday night, is totally unsettled. Starting right guard Kendall Simmons, superb as a rookie in '02, is just now getting back to practice after some time off to be treated for a diabetes-like condition and he isn't yet in shape. Oliver Ross has yet to definitively fend off the challenge from journeyman Todd Fordham, an afterthought-type free agency pickup, for the No. 1 job at right tackle.

And depth is sorely lacking. Even if everyone gets settled in over the next couple weeks, there hasn't been much time for this reworked unit together on the field, and that hardly bodes well for the Pittsburgh running game.

OL play is an often overlooked aspect of fantasy production, especially for the running backs. If things don't improve rapidly for the Steelers, the future looks dimmer for Amos Zereoue and Jerome Bettis than it did before training camp opened.

2. QB Maddox: Looking Over His Shoulder at Batch

Clipped from: ESPN.com article by Len Pasquarelli

There are skeptics -- and, let's be honest, some of them are in his own organization -- who fret that the 2002 NFL comeback player of the year might go back to being pretty much what he was prior to last season. And so quarterback Tommy Maddox is going to have to demonstrate, for job security and that fat contract extension which he thought was coming his way this spring, that '02 was no fluke.

Uh, so far, he still has a long way to go to satisfy the Heinz Field doubters. There is a reason Steelers brass held off on an extension and, on Saturday night at times, you could almost discern the sighs of relief, when Maddox was in scattershot mode, at not having doled out a big signing bonus for the six-year veteran.

If the Pittsburgh running game is as tattered as it currently looks, Maddox is going to have to deliver big-time, and that means operating principally from the "spread" formation with which he is so familiar. Then again, that means Maddox is going to get hit a lot, and that isn't a pretty prospect. Maddox has good pocket feel, and he can move up, and buy himself some time. But he isn't going to consistently dodge a strong pass rush and having an unsettled offensive line won't help.

There is a suspicion that former Detroit Lions starter Charlie Batch, who is making more money in 2002 than is Maddox, could eventually take over as the starter. On Saturday night, at least, he was the more effective passer. Then again, it's still early, and Maddox has bounced back from the football scrap heap before.

It's too early to panic if you are a Maddox owner, but keep an eye on this developing situation and be ready to pull the trigger on Batch if need be. It is a little unsettling that management still seems somewhat hesitant about his success. With the quality Pittsburgh receivers though, a Maddox / Batch QB handcuff might be an excellent value.

3. RB Staley: Interested in Bears

Clipped from: Chicago Sun-Times article by Brad Biggs

The interest by the Bears in running back Duce Staley is mutual.

The Philadelphia Eagles holdout, in his fourth week away from training camp, is making inquiries about possible new employers from his home in Columbia, S.C. Staley was calling about the Bears when he checked in with former backfield mate Stanley Pritchett on Monday afternoon. They played together in Philadelphia in 2000 and in college at South Carolina.

"He wanted to hear what was going on up here," said Pritchett, who flew to Atlanta to be with his wife, Nancy, for the birth of their son. "It was my first time hearing about a possible trade. Duce asked me if Chicago was a good place, and I told him it was. He said Chicago was showing a lot of interest in him."

While Staley wants to move on to a better situation, this is only a trade rumor at this point, and no actual negotiations have begun. See item #5, below.

4. QB Hutchinson (Dal): One Game Audition, Thurs. Night

Clipped from: Star-Telegram article by Travis Richmond

Chad Hutchinson's bid to be the Cowboys' starting quarterback will be evaluated in large part by how well he plays against Pittsburgh on Thursday.

And he's not happy about it.

Cowboys coach Bill Parcells took a long look at Quincy Carter in Friday's preseason victory over the Texans, and Carter responded by passing for 140 yards and a touchdown. Hutchinson didn't take a single snap.

This week against the Steelers, Hutchinson will have his chance. Parcells said Hutchinson is the only quarterback he's sure he will use against the Steelers.

But it could be Hutchinson's last chance, as Parcells had hoped to name his starter by this point of training camp.

"I don't think it would be fair to evaluate one performance, one quarter," Hutchinson said. "But that's the way it goes. If he wants to evaluate it, then fine. But I really don't think that would be fair. At all."

The quarterback derby in Dallas is coming to a head and we'll know soon at least who'll be starting the season. Hutchinson is 31st on our board, and Carter is 33rd. But that might be changing. I have a hard time saying it, but Carter's looked pretty solid thus far (although Ryan Leaf looked good in preseason too...) It's honestly tough to envision either one of these guys carrying your team this year. Click here (http://www.footballguys.com/03qbproj1.cfm?sortorder=team,rank&desc=0) for all our QB projections.

5. HC Jauron: Staley, Bears Aren't Actually Talking

Clipped from: ChicagoSports.com article by David Haugh

Unhappy holdout Duce Staley eventually may be headed out of Philadelphia, but if the running back is on his way to Chicago, Bears coach Dick Jauron says it will be news to him.

Jauron responded Monday to speculation over Staley's possible availability to the Bears by saying the team hasn't discussed a trade with the Eagles for Staley and if talks had taken place, he would know.

"I'm sure that I would be notified, but I wouldn't be personally involved," Jauron said. "We have not talked about any trades."

Speculation arose after running back Anthony Thomas made a lackluster debut in Saturday's exhibition game against Denver with 15 yards on six carries. A source who had spoken with Staley called the trade rumors "part of the process," and said that as of Monday nobody from the Eagles had mentioned to the star running back a scenario that included the Bears.

With the impasse between Reid's Eagles and Staley nowhere near resolution, various trade scenarios will surface and disappear. Whether a trade happens or not is still a long way off, as the Eagles (up to now) refuse to consider a trade until Staley shows up at camp...

6. Bears' New MLB: Andra Davis

Clipped from: Ohio.com article by Patrick McManamon

The Browns have a new middle linebacker.

Andra Davis was promoted to the first team Monday.

Barry Gardner, who started the first two preseason games, was moved to the weak side, where he is behind Ben Taylor.

Kevin Bentley remains the starter on the strong side -- the tight end side.

"We think (Davis) is probably going to be the guy," Browns Coach Butch Davis said. "There's no reason to think he won't be."

Andra Davis had an interception down the field against the Green Bay Packers and has had a handful of tackles in each preseason game.

Butch Davis said Gardner will be given a chance to unseat Taylor, who had an impressive start to camp.

If you need a LB prospect for your IDP league, keep an eye on Davis to see how he produces in the final pre-season games.

7. RB Lee Suggs (Cle): Not Ready To Practice Yet

Clipped from: Ohio.com article by Patrick McManamon

Rookie running back Lee Suggs failed his physical and will not practice until his shoulder heals. Suggs had arthroscopic surgery to repair a partially torn rotator cuff in May....

With William Green and Jamel White ahead of Suggs, there is no reason to rush his rehabilitation. Suggs shouldn't be a prospect in redraft leagues, although keeper and dynasty owners may want to take a look at him if they have a need at RB.

8. WR Ferguson: Locks Up #2 in Green Bay

Clipped from: Journal Sentinel article by Bob McGinn

Wide receiver Robert Ferguson missed almost half of the Green Bay Packers' training camp with a tailbone injury but that still didn't stop him from sewing up a starting job three weeks before the start of the regular season.

Ferguson entered camp with a slight lead over Javon Walker in what was supposed to be a good battle for a berth opposite Donald Driver. On Monday, wide receivers coach Ray Sherman said Ferguson had held serve.

"He's had a great camp," Sherman said. "I'm very happy with him. No doubt in my mind he will be an excellent player."

Ferguson's potential is one reason why the Packers felt comfortable trading Terry Glenn in February.

"He tries to do it the way you ask him to do it," Sherman said. "He studies and he's very mature. He understands. He had one (missed assignment) in the Cleveland game on a technique. Other than that he's been right where he's supposed to be. I know Brett (Favre) is happy with him."

There you have it. We like Ferguson to enjoy a moderately productive year, with 45/635/4 receiving -- that puts him at 60th on our board, a #5 or #6 fantasy WR for teams in most leagues.

9. WR Burleson (Min): Locking Up #3 for Vikings

Clipped from: St. Paul Pioneer Press article by Sean Jensen

Coach Mike Tice provided that answer Sunday when he promoted Nate Burleson to the third receiver spot, where he is expected to be on the field for as many as 40 percent of the offensive plays.

"I knew I'd do well," Kevin Burleson said. "But I didn't know it would happen this fast."

Neither did the Vikings.

A third-round draft pick out of Nevada-Reno, Nate Burleson was a sure bet to make the 53-man roster, and he was expected to contribute in some way this season. But Burleson didn't settle for that, and he showed the team why he finished second on the NCAA's all-time list with 138 catches in a single season.

Burleson has steadily improved since training camp opened last month, and he was one of the few players to distinguish himself in a 26-16 loss Saturday to the Kansas City Chiefs. He led the Vikings with six catches for 56 yards, including a touchdown.

Burleson is an up-and-comer worth watching in the final pre-season games. At #3, he's one injury to Moss or Bates away from starting for one of the most potent offenses in the NFL.

10. RB Rhodes (Ind): Knee Still Hurting -- Headed for Second Opinion

Clipped from: Indy Star article by Mike Chappell

Dominic Rhodes missed Monday morning's workout in order to get a second medical opinion on his ailing right knee.

Coach Tony Dungy said the team's backup running back was in Birmingham, Ala., to confer with James Andrews, a noted orthopedic surgeon.

"He's just seeing what someone else thinks," Dungy said. "My sense is he's like (running back Edgerrin James) was, where it's not 100 percent and he wants it to be 100 percent."

Rhodes tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during training camp last summer. His rehabilitation was interrupted in late May when he underwent arthroscopic surgery to address range-of-motion concerns.

Rhodes practiced at the outset of training camp in Terre Haute, but was sidelined when he suffered an injury to his left shoulder July 29. He returned briefly to workouts a few days later, but the knee, not the shoulder, forced him to miss the past two weeks of practice.

Rhodes has really struggled to stay healthy, and this latest set-back with the knee is discouraging. The Colts haven't seen him on the field much at all this pre-season, and he is now behind James Mungro and Ricky Williams on the official depth chart. If Rhodes is still on a developmental squad in your dynasty or keeper league, you should probably drop him for someone else.

11. WR Hatchette (Jax): Just Making Catches

Clipped from: Orlando Sentinel article by Jerry Norton

With four catches for 46 yards against Miami on Friday, WR Matthew Hatchette was QB Byron Leftwich's go-to-guy. At Monday morning's practice session, Hatchette was Mark Brunell's go-to-guy. Twice during 11-on-11 drills Brunell connected with Hatchette on a deep route behind CB Jason Craft, prompting praise from Coach Jack Del Rio.

"Number 11 [Hachette] found a way to hook up with Mark right away down the sideline which is a good thing for us on offense," said Del Rio.

Brunell wasn't quite as successful on an earlier pass to TE Kyle Brady. His high throw went threw Brady's hands and was intercepted by S Donovin Darius.

Prior to veteran WR Jimmy Smith's four-game suspension, the contest there was for the third spot behind Smith and J.J. Stokes. With Smith out, Stokes takes over as the No. 1 receiver and Del Rio is now looking for Nos. 2 and No. 3 guys. The coaches are also high on Donald Hayes, formerly of the Carolina Panthers and the New England Patriots. WR Jermaine Lewis is assured of a roster spot as the kick-return specialist.

With Smith's suspension, the WR stable is in a free-for-all for playing time and the depth chart order is subject to change. Hatchette is making his statement to earn increased playing time -- stay tuned to see who wins #2, Hatchette or Hayes.

12. DE Jevon Kearse (Ten): Still Tuning Up

Clipped from: Tennessean article by Jeff Legwold

The Titans want him to calm down a little.

"He was all over the place," Coach Jeff Fisher said of Kearse's performance against the Bills last Saturday night.

"He was rushing hard, very active, and battled. He was spinning out of the stack and chasing downfield and making plays.

"Now he has to polish, settle down, relax and work once again on the art of pass rushing as opposed to just running around trying to make plays."

Kearse has played sparingly so far - he has no solo tackles, no sacks and one tackle assist - but figures to get more work Saturday night at Cincinnati. Fisher said he plans to play the regulars into the third quarter.

"I just want to get going," Kearse said. "I want to get back to where I was, like nothing ever happened. Get out there and make some plays."

We think Kearse will get back to decent form in 2003. He is our 22nd ranked DL with a projected 85 FP in 2003. http://www.footballguys.com/03dlproj1a.cfm

UPDATE

Tennessee Titans defensive end Jevon Kearse sprained his right ankle Tuesday near the end of practice and was in a walking boot after being treated by trainers.

Coach Jeff Fisher said the three-time Pro Bowler did not appear to be severely hurt.

Kearse missed 12 games last season after breaking a bone in his left foot.

"Everybody held their deep breath when he grabbed his foot, but it's the other foot. It's his right ankle," Fisher said.

Kearse was rushing the line and may have stepped on right guard Benji Olson's foot. Kearse said he felt his ankle roll and immediately went down to avoid injuring it any further. He was on his hands and knees before being helped to a nearby cart, where a trainer examined his foot.

Kearse said he strained his foot and didn't hear any pop or break.

"I'm happy it's not the same foot I hurt (before)," Kearse said.

It is good news that Kearse didn't injure the same foot, but the severity of this sprain is unknown at the present time. Stay tuned for further details on this developing situation.

13. RB Fargas: Gaining Confidence, Role in Oakland

Clipped from: Mercury News article by Craig Lancaster

With each yard Justin Fargas gains, his confidence grows -- as does the Raiders' backfield intrigue.

After all, in the Raiders' pass-intensive offense, only so many carries are available. The Raiders ran the ball 414 times last season, and 182 of those carries belonged to Charlie Garner. Now the Raiders have Fargas, a rookie from USC who has 72 and 126 rushing yards in two exhibitions.

Coach Bill Callahan, clearly taken with his new running back, said Fargas will spell starter Tyrone Wheatley (Garner is nursing a bruised left knee) in the second quarter and work with the first-team offensive line in Friday's exhibition against Minnesota.

"I'd like to get him in earlier but not run him as long," Callahan said.

Fargas was nonchalant Monday about how quickly he has developed with the Raiders.

"I didn't have any kind of statistical goals going into these games," he said. "I just tried to use camp to learn as much as I could, get some experience and take advantage of any opportunities coaches gave me."

Fargas' emergence means the Raiders have some tricky decisions to make before the two roster cuts that will get them down to 53 players. (The first -- to 65 -- comes Aug. 26. The final cut-down is Aug. 31.) Garner's ability to run (962 yards in 2002) and catch (91 for 941 yards) seemingly makes him a lock at starter if he's healthy. Wheatley, Fargas, Ronney Jenkins and Madre Hill are in the mix at running back. Zack Crockett is the starting fullback, and Cecil Martin and Chris Hetherington are locked in a battle for the backup spot.

That's eight players. The Raiders ordinarily carry six backs.

Fargas is definitely a player to watch, and may be the starter in Oakland within a few seasons. While barring injury, he likely won't be a factor in 2003, if he's available in your dynasty or keeper league, grab him.

14. PK Janikowski: Not in the Groove Yet

Clipped from: SFGate.com article by Nancy Gay

The Raiders were back on their familiar practice field in Alameda on Monday, and kicker Sebastian Janikowski became reacquainted with the breezy, bayside conditions that often arrive in the afternoon.

The hot, still air of Napa could be one explanation for a preseason in which he has gone 1-for-5 on field-goal attempts in two games.

"I know it's the preseason, but you still get (mad) when you miss. I thought I'd kicked some of those other ones straight," Janikowski said of his first four misses.

When he immersed himself in the Candlestick Point wind tunnel, Janikowski found his groove. "The wind really kicked up at Candlestick Park, so I had to work to get it through," said Janikowski, who nonetheless hit a 45-yard field goal, snapping his streak of misses.

Coaches still think Janikowski might be rushing his delivery, which is gauged in tenths of a second. "I'm still at 1.18 (seconds), maybe 1.20. They'd like it to be 1.25," Janikowski explained.

"Do you know how little a difference that is?" chimed in holder and punter Shane Lechler.

"It doesn't sound like much, but I can feel it," said Janikowski, who always has rushed his kicks. "I just try to stay back now until Shane holds the ball."

Janikowski is a steaky player, but his awesome range makes him a good choice for leagues that reward long field goals more than short chip-shots. He'll work through this doldrums by regular season -- we think he's the 2nd best fantasy PK prospect for 2003.

15. Ram's C Wohlabaugh: Fractured Thumb in Win

Clipped from: Post-Dispatch article by Jim Thomas

The injury bug has hit the Rams' center position once again. Dave Wohlabaugh, signed as a free agent on Feb. 27, suffered a fractured left thumb in the first half of Monday's preseason victory over Tampa Bay. More precisely, Wohlabaugh fractured the first metacarpal.

"I was on the field goal unit and I just got hit after a lot of guys overloaded the middle," Wohlabaugh said. "I just got banged."

The injury put left guard Andy McCollum - the Rams' starting center for the past three years - back at center, with David Loverne coming off the bench to play left guard. McCollum, by the way, acquitted himself well at left guard after struggling in the preseason opener against Oakland.

Wohlabaugh is the third Rams center to go down with injury this preseason. Sixth-round draft pick Scott Tercero, a guard-center, suffered a knee injury on July 25, the second day of camp. Six days later, second-team center Andy Eby went down with a knee injury. Both players needed surgery, and are expected to be out until at least mid-September.

Although Wohlabaugh said he plans to play Saturday in Buffalo, the rash of injuries leaves the Rams with few healthy options at center. John Romero was signed early in camp but has struggled to get up to speed. Guard James Broyles has played center in the past, but he's playing with his left hand wrapped like a club because of a broken hand in camp.

Wohlabaugh is a warrior-type player, so he'll give it a go. However, watch and see how effective he is with his blocking assignments. The center-quarterback exchange is so vital in the NFL -- hopefully his timing with Warner won't be disrupted.

16. QB Warner: Looks Sharp in Win Over TB

Clipped from: Post-Dispatch article by Jeff Gordon

What do you know? Rams quarterback Kurt Warner may not be washed up after all.

Warner eased a lot of doubts in Rams Nation during his one series on the field Monday night against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

His first pass attempt was a 17-yard strike to Torry Holt, wedged into a seam in the secondary. That set the tone for his brief but encouraging performance during the Rams' 26-16 preseason victory.

Warner also completed a nifty pass to tight end Brandon Manumaleuna, throwing on the move while rolling out of his pocket to the right. That is not Warner's forte, but he got it done.

Overall, Warner completed seven of seven passes for 55 yards while marching the Rams to a field goal on their first possession of the game.

"I felt good," Warner said. "We wanted to get after it and send a good message, get some consistency and get into a flow."

OK, Warner DID fumble a center snap, which he quickly recovered, so we suppose his game wasn't quite perfect. But he demonstrated the composure and passing accuracy that we got used to seeing before last season's breakdown.

The Kurt Warner of old played on Monday night. The Warner/Holt connection was very hot vs. the Super Bowl champ's vaunted defense. Those of us (like myself) who've been touting Warner this Summer were certainly glad to see it.

17. 49'ers CB: Webster Out, Rumph In

Clipped from: Oakland Tribune article by Roger Phillips

Starting cornerback Jason Webster will be sidelined for up to two months as a result of an injury to his right knee suffered during practice Sunday, San Francisco 49ers coach Dennis Erickson said Monday.

Erickson said Webster will miss four to eight weeks with the following injuries: a hyperextension, a hairline fracture of his tibia, swelling and a severe posterior capsule sprain. Webster's ligaments are intact, and surgery is not planned. Based on Erickson's estimate, Webster would miss anywhere from two to six games of the regular season.

Webster was participating in his first padded practice Sunday after missing the first three weeks of training camp while recovering from off-season surgery on his left ankle.

"It was disappointing to get injured again after all the work I put in during the off-season," said Webster, standing with the support of crutches and with a heavy brace on his injured leg. "After I got over the initial frustration, I realized that dwelling on it wouldn't help me move forward."

Webster injured the knee when he landed awkwardly after leaping to cover rookie receiver Brandon Lloyd. With Webster gone, Erickson said second-year cornerback Mike Rumph will start the Sept. 7 regular-season opener against the Chicago Bears at Candlestick Park.

"I always felt like I was prepared," said Rumph, the 49ers' first-round draft choice in 2002. "But this comes at a time where I feel like I was more ready than I was last year. It's just something I have to do."

Followup to yesterday's story. The Niners are hoping and praying that Rumph is actually more ready than he was last year, when he got torched by opposing wideouts on a regular basis.

Watch and see how Rumph responds in the final pre-season games -- and get ready to start your WR's when they face the 49'ers if he isn't better than last season.

18. Seattle QB Trent Dilfer: Back in Practice

Clipped from: Seattle Times article by Jose Miguel Romero

Trent Dilfer is a bit heavier and has a more rugged look, the product of three weeks of limited activity and absolutely no practice time.

He still has weight to lose and eventually a beard to shave, but he can practice. Dilfer ran the offense yesterday, passing and handing off to receivers in team drills for the first time since July 28. He pulled a muscle on his right side and was unable to do much more than run until yesterday.

"It felt really good," Dilfer said. "It was frustrating getting hurt early in camp, and I worked hard in rehab, and it was probably beneficial in the long run because I got an opportunity to take care of business with my body and I feel like I'm in a position to play some football now."

Dilfer, who missed the offseason because of a torn Achilles tendon suffered last season, barked out signal calls louder than any other quarterback in practice yesterday. He hopes to play Saturday in the exhibition game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

"Eventually it will start to work for him," coach Mike Holmgren said. "We're just taking it a day at a time."

Starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck said Dilfer's new look was cause for some good-natured ribbing.

"He kind of looked good in his uniform," Hasselbeck said. "We were giving him a hard time. He was throwing the ball well ... and I thought he looked strong. He looks like a rock star."

This is Hasselbeck's team now, but Dilfer is a solid #2 who could step right in and play if Hasselbeck were to get bit by the injury bug.

19. Patriot's OL: Lacina Added to Mix

Clipped from: ESPN.com AP article

Veteran offensive lineman Corbin Lacina has signed with the New England Patriots, the team said Tuesday.

Lacina, 32, has played 10 years in the NFL and started every game for the Minnesota Vikings last season.

The 6-foot-4-inch, 314-pound guard, who has started 79 of 121 career games, went to Augustana College in South Dakota and was originally drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round (167th overall) of the 1993 draft.

He spent the majority of his rookie year on the Bills practice squad, but started 10 of 11 games in 1994.

He played for the Bills through the 1997 season. He signed with the Carolina Panthers in 1998 and started 10 games before his season ended with an injury. He joined the Vikings in 1999 and started 41 of 56 games played over the past four seasons.

With the surprise retirement of Brenden Stai last week, the Patriots needed to find some more OL help. Lacina is a solid veteran presence who should help fill the void Stai left behind, and provide insurance in case Joe Andruzzi's knee problems flare up again.

20. QB Doug Johnson: Ready to Lead the Falcons

Clipped from: GoPBI.com AP article

Doug Johnson knew this day might come, so he kept himself ready.

Every time Michael Vick took off running, Johnson figured he was just one tackle away from taking over at quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.

"You've got to keep your mind in the game," Johnson said. "You're not playing behind someone like Brett Favre or Peyton Manning. You figure guys that stay in the pocket are not going to get injured as much. With Michael's running ability, I had to stay in the game."

Good thing.

Vick broke his right leg in a preseason game Saturday night and will need at least six weeks to heal. He'll miss the opening month of the regular season, giving Johnson a chance to start the first four games.

The former Florida quarterback doesn't sound the least bit intimidated.

"There's no greater pressure in the NFL," Johnson said Monday, his T-shirt drenched in sweat after a workout. "I played in front of more people at Florida than I'll ever play in front of in the NFL."

Clearly, the Falcons' offense will undergo a major change with Johnson taking snaps instead of Vick. The injured starter was downright revolutionary, a quarterback who was as likely to beat you with his legs as his left arm. The replacement is a typical drop-back passer who relies on timing and reading defenses at the line.

While he's had only three starts in three seasons, Johnson gained the confidence of his teammates with a performance last season at Giants Stadium. Filling in for Vick, who couldn't play because of a sprained shoulder, Johnson completed 19 of 25 passes for 257 yards in a 17-10 victory. He passed for one touchdown and ran for another, faking out Jason Sehorn with a Vick-like move.

We think Johnson will do a fine job filling in for Vick: 55% completions, for 1,102 yards, 5 touchdowns and 6 interceptions. Of course, those projections are subject to change once we know how long Vick is likely to be out, in about 10 days from now. Florida and the SEC is most definitely big time football. Johnson is right in that the crowds are often bigger than that what he'll face on Sundays. The gigantic difference though is that the players are much better than what he used to face on Saturdays in Gainesville. Should be interesting.

21. KR/WR Michael Bates (Caro): Not Guilty of DWI

Clipped from: ESPN.com article by Len Pasquarelli

Kick returner Michael Bates was acquitted of a drunken driving charge after a judge ruled there was insufficient evidence to prove the accusation.

After the ruling Monday by Mecklenburg District Judge Hugh Lewis, Bates said he was chastened by the experience.

"I'm happy I was found not guilty," Bates said. "It was a learning experience. I understand not to drink and drive. Even if it's after one beer. It could be real dangerous."

Bates, 33, was stopped about 6 p.m. on May 6 by a state Highway Patrol trooper on Interstate 485 in Charlotte. He was driving on the shoulder of the road, trying to get around heavy traffic.

Bates refused to take a breath test to determine his blood alcohol level. But Highway Patrol Trooper T.K. Pounds testified Monday that he could smell alcohol on Bates' breath. The trooper said Bates' eyes were red, glossy and bloodshot and that his speech was slurred.

Whatever actually happened, the Panthers won't be without their special teams linchpin Bates. That's a good thing for their D/ST unit.

22. Texans Acquire New Lead Blocker for Mack: Dolphin Deon Dyer

Clipped from: ESPN.com article by Len Pasquarelli

Reacting quickly to replace injured fullback Jarrod Baxter, the Texans reached agreement in principle to acquire Deon Dyer from the Dolphins on Tuesday. The deal will be consummated once the fourth-year pro passes a physical examination.

Dyer, 25, was a fourth-round choice of the Dolphins in the 2000 draft. The former North Carolina star has appeared in 32 games and started one, but has never posted a rushing attempt and has just two receptions for 14 yards.

He is, however, viewed as an excellent lead blocker and, with the injury to Baxter, is precisely what the Texans need. Baxter was placed on injured reserve Monday with a foot injury and will miss the entire 2003 campaign. Baxter played in all 16 games for the Texans in 2000 and started in 10 of them.

This is good news for Mack owners -- the FB needs to be a proficient blocker if Mack is going to find running room in Houston this season.

23. Tampa NT Anthony McFarland: Bucs Show Him The Money

Clipped from: GoPBI.com AP article by Fred Godall

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers took another step toward keeping the NFL's stingiest defense together Tuesday, signing nose tackle Anthony McFarland to a five-year contract extension worth $34 million over the next six seasons.

McFarland, who teams with All-Pro Warren Sapp to form the most dominating defensive tackle tandem in the league, also received a $9.5 million signing bonus.

"Growing up, I thought the only way I'd see some of these numbers was through the lottery," said McFarland, who had a year left on the contract he signed as a rookie entering the NFL as the 15th overall pick in the 1999 draft. "It's a great opportunity to extend my career, and hopefully I'll finish it here."

The deal, which incorporates the $2.25 million McFarland was to earn this season, was a top priority for general manager Rich McKay, who can now turn his attention to trying to keep Sapp in a Bucs uniform beyond 2003.

Sapp, a six-time Pro Bowl selection who's on the verge of becoming Tampa Bay's all-time sack leader, has one year remaining on the six-year, $36 million contract he signed in 1998. He's due to earn $6.6 million and would be guaranteed a salary of $7.9 million in 2004 if the Bucs were to designate him as their franchise player to prevent him from becoming an unrestricted free agent.

Jerry Maguire would be proud of McFarland. With the DL Tampa sports, opposing running backs and quarterbacks will have a rough time when they play the defending Super Bowl champs this season.

24. Chicago Trades DT Ted Washington to New England - Staley Deal to Follow?

Clipped from the AP Story:

The Chicago Bears traded veteran nose tackle Ted Washington to the New England Patriots on Tuesday for a fourth-round pick in the 2004 NFL draft.

Washington, 35, is a four-time Pro Bowl selection. He has 852 career tackles and 29 sacks in 12 seasons with San Francisco, Denver, Buffalo and Chicago.

The Bears get the Washington Redskins' fourth-round draft choice in 2004. The Patriots had obtained the Redskins' selection for two picks in the 2003 draft.

Washington, a 6-foot-4, 375-pound lineman, was drafted by San Francisco in the first round in 1991 out of Louisville. He had three straight 100-plus tackle seasons for the Bills from 1996-98. The Chicago Bears traded veteran nose tackle Ted Washington to the New England Patriots on Tuesday for a fourth-round pick in the 2004 NFL draft.

Washington, 35, is a four-time Pro Bowl selection. He has 852 career tackles and 29 sacks in 12 seasons with San Francisco, Denver, Buffalo and Chicago.

The Bears get the Washington Redskins' fourth-round draft choice in 2004. The Patriots had obtained the Redskins' selection for two picks in the 2003 draft.

Washington, a 6-foot-4, 375-pound lineman, was drafted by San Francisco in the first round in 1991 out of Louisville. He had three straight 100-plus tackle seasons for the Bills from 1996-98.

The Patriots fans I know are excited about this. Washington is trying to return to full speed after suffering the first major injury of his career last season. He suffered a broken left fibula and a torn Lis franc ligament in his left foot last year in Week Two against the Falcons. Of course the immediate rumor comes to mind that the Bears are clearing cap room to make room for Duce Staley. I have no confirmation of that, but it's a move that makes some sense. Stay tuned.

That'll do it for today, Folks. Have a great one and I'll see you tomorrow with the update.

Joe