2006 Free Agency Rumors

[bigbolthead21]

Free Agency Buzz: Brees situation cloudy http://media.scout.com/media/jfd/102/premium.gif

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By Lane Adkins (javascript:location.href='http://search.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=4&c=1&search=1&sskey=%22' + escape('Lane Adkins ') + '%22&sssiteid=102';)

Date: Feb 14, 2006

With the start of free agency just a few weeks away, buzz about potential free agent moves is getting louder. Lane Adkins brings you the latest whispers around the NFL on which players may be on the move...

Rumors and speculation run wild in the off-season, but nothing compares to the action and frenzy of the free agent player signing period. Less than three weeks away, the speculation is starting and Scout.com will be here to provide insight on what is being mentioned in league circles.



Although he is rehabbing from shoulder surgery, the San Diego Chargers (http://chargers.scout.com/) and Drew Brees (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1716316) have engaged in discussions regarding the future of the quarterback in San Diego. There are, however, concerns on how he will respond with conflicting reports coming out regarding his return from injury. The Chargers would like to retain Brees’ services and remain optimistic that his shoulder will be sound prior to the 2006 season opener.

The latest talk has the Chargers renegotiating quarterback A.J. Feeley's deal to ensure he returns to the squad - the thinking is he could end up being a backup if Brees' rehab does not go as planned. The Chargers have not been afraid to keep three quarterbacks on the roster; they have kept three on the active ledger for three straight years.
The New York Jets are quietly looking at making a move at the running back position. Veteran Curtis Martin (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1904204) has been solid for the team, but will soon be 34-years of age and is coming off knee surgery. A new coaching staff and change of attitude within the New York organization may hasten Martin’s departure.
A couple Lewises have been important fixtures for the Baltimore Ravens (http://ravens.scout.com/) in recent years and both could find themselves new addresses for the 2006 season. While unlikely, linebacker Ray Lewis (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1790526)’ name has been lobbed out in league circles as a player that could be on the move. Still wanting a reworked contract and getting up in age (32), Lewis is no longer considered to be the brutal, impact defensive wrecking machine he was just a short two seasons ago. The other Lewis, Jamal, is coming off a season which his production suffered and he did not endear himself to some within the organization. The Cleveland Browns (http://browns.scout.com/) and Tennessee Titans (http://titans.scout.com/) could be interested in the former rushing champion, if the price is right.
Defensive end John Abraham (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1969030) could be a hot commodity in the free agent player marker, if he gets that opportunity. Abraham, the New York Jets franchise player in 2005 could again be in line to receive the tag from the team. Coming to an agreement on a long-term deal has not been in the cards with the team and Abraham wants the opportunity to move on. The Patriots, Browns, Chargers, Redskins, and Bengals all have kept an ear to the ground in regards to Abraham’s status.
One rumor which has made some rounds in recent days has the Minnesota Vikings (http://vikings.scout.com/) trading quarterback Daunte Culpepper (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1756510) to the St. Louis Rams (http://rams.scout.com/) for a first-round draft selection, with the Rams then dealing quarterback Marc Bulger (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1922278) to the Miami Dolphins (http://dolphins.scout.com/) for an undisclosed draft selection.
Speaking of the Dolphins, it appears the Saban-led troops have an interest in oft-troubled free agent wide receiver Koren Robinson (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=2148971) (Seattle and Minnesota). Also, Miami is believed to have an interest in free agent wide receiver Antwaan Randle El.
The Arizona Cardinals (http://cardinals.scout.com/) are looking for a starting caliber running back. Not sure if 2005 draftee J.J. Arrington (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1879560) has the physical makeup to be a starting running back, the team has quietly been breaking down the potential free agent market. Ahman Green and Jamal Lewis interest the team, but there has been an ongoing belief head coach Dennis Green (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1114112) will make a play for Minnesota’s Michael Bennett (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=211&p=8&c=1&nid=1802952).thoughts on any of these or more free agency rumors, feel free to put up anything u want:)

[LTfan4life]

Eh...If Arizona's smart, they'll go after Edge. It looks like if Alexander hits the Market, he'll go to Carolina. I don't see why the Browns want Jamal Lewis, when they have Boomin Reuben Droughns. I also don't see why the Fins would want Randle El or Robinson, when they have Chambers, Booker, and Boston, not to mention Ricky McMichael at TE.

[KYChargersFan21]

Wow culpepper worth a first round i highly doubt it he coming of knee surgery and gettin pretty old. As for abraham........love to hav him on the chargers and koren robinson and randel el would make great reciever and specialist hopefully these transaction wont become rumors but real.

[akron2332]

Randle El would be a sweet fit for the Bolts, but they REALLY NEED A NEW STRONG SAFETY. And not another rookie.

[KYChargersFan21]

Randle El would be a sweet fit for the Bolts, but they REALLY NEED A NEW STRONG SAFETY. And not another rookie.

I agree with u we need leadership in our secondary and get a chris hope in free agency but still get ko simpson in draft.

[TJ21]

Wow culpepper worth a first round i highly doubt it he coming of knee surgery and gettin pretty old. As for abraham........love to hav him on the chargers and koren robinson and randel el would make great reciever and specialist hopefully these transaction wont become rumors but real.
Culpepper had the #2 best QB rating in the 2004 season. Behind Peyton Manning, and just ahead of Drew Brees.

But Marc Bulger to Miami? I don't see it.

[KYChargersFan21]

Culpepper had the #2 best QB rating in the 2004 season. Behind Peyton Manning, and just ahead of Drew Brees.

But Marc Bulger to Miami? I don't see it.


Culpepper may hav had the second best qb ratingin 04 but that was b4 knee surgery and if we cant get a #1 pick for brees for a partial tear there is sumthing wrong. But Bulger to miami i cant c it either

[SDFaiderHater]

Culpepper had the #2 best QB rating in the 2004 season. Behind Peyton Manning, and just ahead of Drew Brees.

But Marc Bulger to Miami? I don't see it.

culpepper might not even be able to play until the second half of next season...his knee was completely shredded and he isnt a rookie.

[KYChargersFan21]

culpepper might not even be able to play until the second half of next season...his knee was completely shredded and he isnt a rookie.



I couldnt agree with u more

[LTfan4life]

Looks like Edge could go to Denver?!

AP reports RB Edgerrin James insisted this past week he could remain with the Colts. James told reporters at the Pro Bowl he hasn't totally made up his mind after saying recently his days with the Colts were over. "If I was gone I wouldn't have taken off this horseshoe and had a blank white helmet," James said. If James does leave, Denver could be a possibility. The Broncos are looking for a playmaker, but landing James could be tough financially. Expect James to test the open market. If a major deal - James didn't get many bites on the trade market last year - doesn't develop, he could return to the Colts. It may be the best for everyone. He's a great complement to the Colts' tremendous passing game and the vertical game assists James. So don't be surprised if all parties decide Indy is the best place for James.

http://www.nflfans.com/draft/article.php?story=20060213065746483

[RAWDOGG]

Looks like Edge could go to Denver?!



http://www.nflfans.com/draft/article.php?story=20060213065746483

Not sure how that happens just like TO going to KC. Both these guys have cap issues

[SuperBowlBolts]

why would they get another RB? Would they now run a 3 man RB set or what lol

[bigbolthead21]

why would they get another RB? Would they now run a 3 man RB set or what lol
they can trade the other two, but I strongly believe that edge will not come to the AFC West

[bigbolthead21]

Wednesday Player Movement Buzz http://media.scout.com/media/jfd/102/premium.gif

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By Lane Adkins (javascript:location.href='http://search.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=4&c=1&search=1&sskey=%22' + escape('Lane Adkins') + '%22&sssiteid=102';)

Date: Feb 15, 2006

The clock is ticking down to next week's deadline for applying the franchise tag, as well as the NFL combine and the start of free agency. Teams are scrambling to get their players signed or are readying to find new blood. Here's more exclusive scoop on what's going on behind the scenes courtesy of Scout.com's Lane Adkins...

Next Thursday, February 23, is the deadline for clubs to designate franchise and transition players. March 3rd represents the beginning of the veteran free agency signing period. With the clock ticking, NFL clubs are positioning themselves for the flurry of activity:

The precarious quarterback situation and a new head coach in Detroit does not bode well for quarterback Joey Harrington (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1809268)’s continued employment. Around the league, the perception of Harrington is that he is ‘lacking football toughness’, which is the opposite of the mentally tough new coach. Additionally, the Detroit staff has spent a significant amount of time scouting quarterbacks this off-season, with Vanderbilt (http://vanderbilt.scout.com/) standout Jay Cutler (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1901081) rising near the top of the team’s early wish-list.
The Steelers enter the off-season wanting to retain up and comer, safety Chris Hope (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1822262). The team likes the tandem of Hope and Troy Polamalu (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1822282) in the middle of the defensive backfield. Facing the potential departure of Antwaan Randle El, Deshea Townsend (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1801872) and Brett Keisel (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1822265), the Super Bowl Champions are working behind the scenes to keep the core intact. Contract talks will heat up with Townsend and Keisel. While the Steelers would like nothing more than retain Randle El, the market demand is believed to be extremely strong for the multi-faceted player.
New York Jets (http://jets.scout.com/) cornerback Ty Law (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2088018) will be owed a double-digit bonus/salary in 2006, and the team hasn’t decided if they will retain his services. Law played reasonably well during 2005 despite recovering from a foot injury, and will be a hot commodity if released. Those close to Law have noted to Scout.com that Law liked playing for the Jets, but that "something was missing", meaning that it wasn’t like being in New England.
The Seattle Seahawks (http://seahawks.scout.com/) have been working overtime to get both running back Shaun Alexander (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2355551) and offensive guard Steve Hutchinson (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1709582) under contract for 2006 and beyond. The likelihood of getting deals for both standout potential free agents done prior to the free agent player signing period appears remote, with the chances of securing Hutchinson the more probable. If the team does not reach a deal with Hutchinson, they will place the franchise tag on him, while letting Alexander walk. Alexander is expected to receive a significant amount of interest from the Carolina Panthers (http://panthers.scout.com/) and Arizona Cardinals (http://cardinals.scout.com/).
The New Orleans Saints (http://saints.scout.com/) have lobbed out feelers regarding the value of the second-overall selection in the 2006 college player draft. The Saints are expected to release quarterback Aaron Brooks (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1966973) (if released, Atlanta appears to be an immediate destination) and are believed to be interested in a quarterback on draft day. Meanwhile, talks with standout offensive lineman LeCharles Bentley (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1966967) are going nowhere at this time -the team faces the decision of letting the dominating center walk test the free agent market or slapping the franchise tag on his services.
In Oakland, the Art Shell (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2412585) era Part II is starting to heat-up. While Mike Lombardi remains the voice in owner Al Davis’ ear (we continue to ask "why?"), we hear Shell will have a great amount of input. Davis knows Shell is really the last coach in Oakland that coached the team to play the Raiders way: intimidation, power, and relentlessness. Also, Shell wants a big-armed quarterback, but isn’t keen on Kerry Collins (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1972812), and wants receivers to make plays (Randy Moss (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1974183) anybody?).
Carolina Panthers linebacker Will Witherspoon (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1799088) is going to garner a significant amount of interest, if he indeed hits the open market in early March. The Panthers are attempting to get Witherspoon under contract prior to the free agent signing period. If able to entertain free agency, expect the Cleveland Browns (http://browns.scout.com/), Cincinnati Bengals (http://bengals.scout.com/), Houston Texans (http://texans.scout.com/), Atlanta Falcons (http://falcons.scout.com/), New York Giants (http://giants.scout.com/), and the Panthers themselves to come calling quickly.
While not a free agent, Atlanta Falcons backup quarterback Matt Schaub (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1845695) is an intriguing prospect. The Falcons have entertained numerous calls regarding the availability of the two-year pro from Virginia (http://virginia.scout.com/), all of which ended with the Falcons claiming Schaub is not available (at this time?). One of the teams Scout.com has heard of having an interest in Schaub is the New York Jets.
If the Buffalo Bills (http://bills.scout.com/) don’t come to a contract agreement with cornerback Nate Clements (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1799149) prior to the free agent signing period, the organization will place the franchise tag on the standout cornerback and kick returner. Also, veteran wide receiver Eric Moulds (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1799131) will be asked to restructure his contract and take a pay cut, or he could be released. Buffalo also has been in discussions regarding the status of offensive lineman Mike Williams (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1799119). Williams, somewhat a disappointment in his time with the Bills, could wind up being released.
Contract talks with wide receiver Reggie Wayne (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1861089) and the Indianapolis Colts (http://colts.scout.com/) are progressing. Wayne, a potential free agent, has been deemed a priority by the Indianapolis organization and the team would rather sign the player to a long-term deal than use the franchise tag to secure his services. If the Colts can complete a long-term deal with Wayne, the door would be open for the team to secure free agent running back Edgerrin James (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1743613)’ services for at least one more season - by dropping the dreaded franchise tag on the star.
The San Francisco 49ers (http://49ers.scout.com/) would like to retain the services of linebacker Derek Smith (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1987458), but the team is not confident they can get a deal done with the steady defensive player prior to free agency. Smith could command a considerable amount of interest. The Niners other veteran free agent, Julian Peterson (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1987475), is coming off an injury-marred season and didn’t appear to fit in Mike Nolan’s new defensive scheme. Peterson could be an interesting player, if healthy and given a change of scenery, both of which appear likely in 2006. The New York Giants, Detroit Lions (http://lions.scout.com/), and Jacksonville Jaguars (http://jaguars.scout.com/) could be potential destinations for the former Michigan State (http://michiganstate.scout.com/) product.

[loweezy]

Culpepper had the #2 best QB rating in the 2004 season. Behind Peyton Manning, and just ahead of Drew Brees.

But Marc Bulger to Miami? I don't see it.

check to see what culpepper's qb rating is without moss. =x

[bigbolthead21]

NFL Combine Buzz http://media.scout.com/media/jfd/102/premium.gif

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By Scout.com (http://javascript<b></b>:location.href='http://search.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=4&c=1&search=1&sskey=%22' + escape('Scout.com') + '%22&sssiteid=102';)

Date: Feb 22, 2006

Arizona Cardinals (http://cardinals.scout.com/) – According to a league source, soon-to-be free agent quarterback Josh McCown (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1930865) has the Detroit Lions (http://lions.scout.com/) and Miami Dolphins (http://dolphins.scout.com/) on his wish list to sign, with Miami at the top of the list. He’s looking for a team that will give him the best chance to start. The New York Jets (http://jets.scout.com/) are also a possibility.
Carolina Panthers (http://panthers.scout.com/) – While many fans are speculating that the team would make a run at signing running back Shaun Alexander (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2355551) should he not re-sign with Seattle, don’t look for it. The team is right against the salary cap limit and they’re concentrating on re-signing their own players first — namely running back DeShaun Foster and linebacker Will Witherspoon (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1799088).
Dallas Cowboys (http://cowboys.scout.com/) – Head coach Bill Parcells puts a high premium on special teams so don’t be surprised if he makes a run at signing veteran kicker Adam Vinatieri (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1839508) if the New England Patriots (http://patriots.scout.com/) aren’t able to re-sign him before the start of free agency or don’t place the franchise tag on him by Thursday’s deadline. Vinatieri played for Parcells when he was a rookie in 1996 and Parcells didn’t find much success with his place kickers last season (Shaun Suisham (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2235986) and Bill Cundiff).
Green Bay Packers (http://packers.scout.com/) – According to a league source, the team hasn’t had any contract discussions with veteran defensive tackle Grady Jackson (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1732044) and it’s almost a certainty that the team won’t re-sign him. One player who the team might look to replace him is defensive tackle Rocky Bernard (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2422152). Bernard is who set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 3 should he not be able come to a contract agreement with Seattle. Jackson is coming off of his best season in his four-year career and many around the league think he can become a star. The Packers are well under the salary cap and Executive V.P., General Manager & Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson was involved in drafting Bernard when he was with Seattle.
Minnesota Vikings (http://vikings.scout.com/) – Don’t look for the team to acquire free agent running back Jamal Lewis (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1805667) from the Baltimore Ravens (http://ravens.scout.com/). Those who have studied new head coach Brad Childress (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2356605)’s offense say Lewis would be a bad fit and he doesn’t offer enough versatility.
New Orleans Saints (http://saints.scout.com/) – Unless the team surprisingly decides to place the franchise tag on center LeCharles Bentley (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1966967) by Thursday’s deadline, don’t look for him to re-sign with the team. Bentley’s representatives haven’t had any meaningful contract discussions and those close to the team don’t expect any before the free agency deadline of March 3.
The San Diego Chargers could be an interesting candidate in the Bentley sweepstakes if he hits the market. They hired Saints offensive line coach, Jack Henry, and Bentley has a lot of respect for Henry as a coach and a person.
General manager A.J. Smith has publicly stated that offensive line is an area he will focus on - but the team has not committed a lot of dollars to free agents in recent years.
The team also decided months ago not to re-sign defensive end Darren Howard (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1967061) who still should receive a lot of attention in free agency. Howard told the team back in December that he wouldn’t re-sign and wasn’t happy with their decision not to play him in the final month of the season. Howard said his chronic knee issue had nothing to do with their decision not to play him.
New York Giants (http://giants.scout.com/) – If linebacker Nick Greisen (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1968991) isn’t re-signed by the free agent deadline of March 3, he should be able to find a starting job elsewhere. According to a few NFL scouts that Scout.com has talked to recently, they believe the versatile Greisen is a rising star who is in the upper half at weak side or inside of all linebackers in the league.
Philadelphia Eagles (http://eagles.scout.com/) – Second-year offensive lineman Todd Herremans (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2371374) is progressing well coming back from the ankle injury he suffered in December. Herremans told Scout.com recently that is walking around fine and is doing water exercises to strengthen the ankle. He expects to be ready for the post-draft minicamp.
If right tackle Jon Runyan (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1972954) isn’t re-signed, Herremans would be the favorite to replace him from the current roster. If Runyan re-signs, look for Herremans to compete for the starting left guard job against Artis Hicks (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2371298) who had an up and down season.
Speaking of Runyan, a league source told Scout.com recently that Runyan would be willing to accept up to 25-precent less than another team would offer because he wants to finish his career with the Eagles. The team is expected to resume contract discussions with Runyan’s representative this week in Indianapolis.
San Francisco 49ers (http://49ers.scout.com/) – The decision not to place the franchise tag on veteran linebacker Julian Peterson (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=1987475) shouldn’t come to that much of a surprise. A few scouts who have studied his game tape from last season say he hasn’t been quite the same player since suffering a torn Achilles two years ago. While Peterson is still a good player, he’s not a great one like he was before the injury. It would cost the team $7.169 million to franchise him. Seattle Seahawks (http://seahawks.scout.com/) – The saga of running back Shaun Alexander continues. His agent Jim Steiner called Vice President/Football Administration Mike Reinfeldt early last week to resume contract discussions. Still, according to a league source, both sides remain far apart.
The problem Seattle is having is paying Alexander a big chunk of guaranteed money for a running back that turns 29 next season.
A league source told Scout.com this week that the team isn’t expected to re-sign reserve running back Maurice Morris (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2355611) and they’re looking for an upgrade over him. They may look for one with bigger size.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (http://buccaneers.scout.com/) – Those who know fullback Mike Alstott (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2001998) well told Scout.com recently that they expect the 10-year pro to come back for his 11th season assuming the team and work out a restructured deal with him. Alstott felt good at the end of the season and it appears he should be ready to play in 2006.
Washington Redskins (http://redskins.scout.com/) – According to a league source, look for quarterback Patrick Ramsey (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2377031) to be moved before April’s NFL Draft. Ramsey requested a trade last season after Mark Brunell (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2376974) was named starter and Brunell is expected to be the starter in 2006. He’s on the final year of his contract and is set to be paid $1.688 million this season.
The team turned down trade offers from other teams last season but they want to speed up the maturation process of second-year signal caller Jason Campbell (http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=102&p=8&c=1&nid=2376975) and to do that, Ramsey would have to be moved. Potential suitors of Ramsey are the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets (they called the Redskins last season inquiring about Ramsey’s availability).

[RMANCIL]

Lions likely to tag Backus
<Feb. 22> If the Lions can't work out a long-term deal with Backus before Thursday, they will likely use either the franchise or transition tag on the left tackle.
"I want to try to keep on pushing to try to get the thing worked out here shortly," Lions GM Matt Millen told the Detroit Free Press. "I wouldn't be afraid of a tag at all."

Backus said Monday that the Lions had been in contact with his agent about a long-term contract but a deal was unlikely at this stage. He is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent March 3.

The 28-year old has started every game since the Lions drafted him in the first round in 2001. If tagged, he probably would be willing to discuss a long-term deal after the NFL and the players' union complete a new collective bargaining agreement.


Man that is to bad.

[RMANCIL]

Cutler may push Pennington out
<Feb. 21> Pennington's future could be decided later this week at the NFL scouting combine, The Newark Star-Ledger reports. Not only is GM Mike Tannenbaum scheduled to meet with Pennington's agent, Tom Condon, the Jets will also get a close look at Vanderbilt quarterback Jay Cutler.
Pennington's refusal to accept the Jets' proposal to cut his 2006 salary from $8 million to $1 million, forcing him to make up the difference through incentives, means the quarterback might have played his last game for the Jets, the New York Daily News reports.

Meanwhile, the Jets have the fourth overall pick and there is growing speculation that new coach Eric Mangini is targeting Cutler. The quarterback impressed the Jets at the Senior Bowl and another strong performance in Indianapolis could further entice the Jets to cut ties with Pennington.

A person close to Pennington seemed resigned Friday to the likelihood of the quarterback being released.

"It looks like the [Jets] are ready to move on," the person told the Daily News.

Only 17 months ago, Pennington signed an eight-year, $64 million contract, but two major surgeries on his right (throwing) shoulder have the club's new regime seriously concerned about whether he'll be able to return to starting-caliber form.

Pennington is scheduled to make a total of $9 million in 2006 (a $3 million roster bonus, due March 3, plus $6 million in base salary). He is scheduled to count $15 million on the 2006 cap. By cutting him, the Jets would get stuck with $12 million in "dead" money on their '06 cap. But the net savings would be $3 million.

This would make OT Brick slip down a little bit in the draft...........

[RMANCIL]

Clinging to Hope?
<Feb. 20> The Steelers have made verbal overtures aimed at retaining Hope, and will try to keep their starting free safety off the unrestricted market, ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli reports.
"They've told us that Chris is one of their top targets [to re-sign]," agent Braylon Bennett told ESPN.com on Monday, "and we're taking them at their word. The thing is, without an extension [to the collective bargaining agreement], doing business will be hard. So we'll see what happens. No matter what, our feeling is that Chris will be the top free agent safety."

Hope is one of 11 Steelers who will become unrestricted free agents on March 3. The 25-year-old led Pittsburgh with three interceptions and ranked fifth on the team with 70 solo tackles last season.

[RMANCIL]

Shelton's future unclear
<Feb. 18> Shelton remains unsigned heading into free agency, and his future in Cleveland is unclear, the Akron Beacon Journal reports. The 29-year old would probably be the second- or third-best left tackle available in what figures to be a weak market, and could find himself in an advantageous position.
Shelton's agent, Vance Larimer, said this week that the team and he have exchanged proposals.

``But I don't see anything heating up until the (NFL scouting combine), if then,'' he said before adding that the uncertainty over the extension of the collective bargaining agreement makes new deals difficult.

Keep a eye out here.

[RMANCIL]

Randle El leaning toward Bears?
<Feb. 15> Antwaan Randle El indicated to the Chicago Tribune that the Bears might be at the top of his free-agent shopping list.
"Certainly my family members want me to come here and play here. Also my friends and those who are involved in marketing and that sort of thing," Randle El told the paper.

Randle El is represented by Fletcher Smith, who also represents Eagles QB Donovan McNabb, and there have been hints the Eagles might make a run at the Steelers receiver/kick returner, as well.

[RMANCIL]

<Feb. 12> The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Antonio Bryant, who is the fifth player in franchise history to post a 1,000-yard receiving season, likely won't return to the team.
The Browns are saying the the wideout wants to test free agency, and although it isn't saying so publicly, the team won't make an big effort to bring him back, the newspaper reports.

Keep a eye on him.

[RMANCIL]

Hutchinson wants to stay
<Feb. 11> While Shaun Alexander has received most of the attention, the re-signing of Hutchinson is as much a priority for the Seahawks in the next few weeks as getting Alexander back in the fold. Regarded by many as the most dominant left guard in the game, Hutchinson would like to remain in Seattle, the Seattle Times reports.
"I'd like to stay in Seattle, and we've got a good thing going," Hutchinson said after the NFC's practice at the Ihilani Resort outside of Honolulu. "They drafted me. A bunch of other teams passed up on me. So they had the confidence in using their first-round pick on me. And then we've weathered the storm the first couple of years when we really couldn't put too much together, and now we've really started to see the benefits of hard work."

Given that Alexander's contract stipulates that he cannot be franchised by the team, Hutchinson, 28, is the leading candidate for the Seahawks' franchise tag, meaning next season he would be paid the average of the top five salaries in the NFL for offensive linemen from 2005.

The team could still reach a long-term deal with Hutchinson before Feb. 23, the last day teams can designate a franchise player.