AFC East: Michael Vick
WHAT IT MEANS: The Jets finished the preseason at 2-2 after a sloppy, 24-14 loss to the Eagles on Thursday night at MetLife Stadium. Our advice: Erase those numbers from your memory because they don't matter anymore; it's time to focus on the season opener against the Cowboys. The only significant development from the annual Backup Bowl was a potentially serious thumb injury for rookie QB Greg McElroy, the Jets' No. 3.
QUARTERBACK ISSUES: With Mark Sanchez resting and Mark Brunell recovering from a pulled calf, the Jets started McElroy -- and he didn't make it past the second quarter. McElroy left the game after injuring the thumb on his throwing hand; he appeared to bang it on the helmet of right guard Matt Kroul on a follow-through. One preliminary report said McElroy dislocated his thumb, which would mean a long-term injury. The team didn't provide an immediate diagnosis.
Rex Ryan has said he expects Brunell to be ready for the opener, but it's still a precarious situation, considering Brunell missed all four preseason games and a lot of practice time. If something were to happen to Sanchez, they'd be in big trouble. One move that makes sense is re-signing Kellen Clemens -- assuming he's released by the Redskins. He knows the Jets' system and would be able to play in an emergency.
PHILLY'S QB ISSUES: Naturally, Michael Vick -- the $100 million man -- didn't play. His backup, Vince Young, pulled a hamstring just before halftime and didn't return. In came third-stringer Mike Kafka, who was drilled by linebacker Mattias Berning in the third quarter and nearly came out of the game. They have no other quarterbacks, so it would've been interesting if Kafka hadn’t been able to return. Andy Reid probably would’ve used the Wing-T before using Vick.
DREW WHO?: McElroy was replaced by fourth-stringer Drew Willy, an NFL journeyman who has bounced around on a few practice squads. He also played in the UFL. Willy did well for himself, throwing a 14-yard touchdown to rookie receiver Scotty McKnight on his first pass. Not bad, huh? Willy showed some mobility, running for his life on a few occasions. Willy was going to be released Friday or Saturday; maybe he earned an extended stay.
WOE-LINE: The Jets started their second-team offensive line and it was ugly. McElroy was under heavy pressure from the outset, suffering two sacks in the first quarter. That he got hurt on a freakish play was stunning, considering the pounding he took. Right tackle Vladimir Ducasse was a mess, committing three penalties -- two false starts and one holding (declined).
Clearly, the depth is a problem on the offensive line, with backup center/guard Rob Turner (leg) is down for at least two months. GM Mike Tannenbaum needs to get on the horn and bring in an experienced backup.
RUNNING IN PLACE: The coaching staff was hoping to see some big things from backup running backs Joe McKnight and rookie Bilal Powell, but they did virtually nothing -- a combined total of 10 rushing yards. Worse, McKnight lost a fumble, conjuring up memories of his mistake-prone preseason in 2010. So much for McKnight’s positive momentum.
POSITIVE AUDITIONS: Rex Ryan said they went into the game with three roster spots still up for grabs. Three defensive players helped their chances -- cornerback Ellis Lankster (67-yard interception return for a TD), outside linebacker Aaron Maybin (1.5 sacks) and rookie linebacker Nick Bellore. Outside linebacker Eddie Jones also flashed some potential. Ryan will have some difficult decisions to make at linebacker.
No one on offense really stood out, but rookie tight end Josh Baker showed some pass-catching ability and versatility. Baker, an H-Back in college, also lined up as a fullback. The Jets have only one fullback on the roster, John Conner, who is nursing a sprained ankle.
QUARTERBACK ISSUES: With Mark Sanchez resting and Mark Brunell recovering from a pulled calf, the Jets started McElroy -- and he didn't make it past the second quarter. McElroy left the game after injuring the thumb on his throwing hand; he appeared to bang it on the helmet of right guard Matt Kroul on a follow-through. One preliminary report said McElroy dislocated his thumb, which would mean a long-term injury. The team didn't provide an immediate diagnosis.
Rex Ryan has said he expects Brunell to be ready for the opener, but it's still a precarious situation, considering Brunell missed all four preseason games and a lot of practice time. If something were to happen to Sanchez, they'd be in big trouble. One move that makes sense is re-signing Kellen Clemens -- assuming he's released by the Redskins. He knows the Jets' system and would be able to play in an emergency.
PHILLY'S QB ISSUES: Naturally, Michael Vick -- the $100 million man -- didn't play. His backup, Vince Young, pulled a hamstring just before halftime and didn't return. In came third-stringer Mike Kafka, who was drilled by linebacker Mattias Berning in the third quarter and nearly came out of the game. They have no other quarterbacks, so it would've been interesting if Kafka hadn’t been able to return. Andy Reid probably would’ve used the Wing-T before using Vick.
DREW WHO?: McElroy was replaced by fourth-stringer Drew Willy, an NFL journeyman who has bounced around on a few practice squads. He also played in the UFL. Willy did well for himself, throwing a 14-yard touchdown to rookie receiver Scotty McKnight on his first pass. Not bad, huh? Willy showed some mobility, running for his life on a few occasions. Willy was going to be released Friday or Saturday; maybe he earned an extended stay.
WOE-LINE: The Jets started their second-team offensive line and it was ugly. McElroy was under heavy pressure from the outset, suffering two sacks in the first quarter. That he got hurt on a freakish play was stunning, considering the pounding he took. Right tackle Vladimir Ducasse was a mess, committing three penalties -- two false starts and one holding (declined).
Clearly, the depth is a problem on the offensive line, with backup center/guard Rob Turner (leg) is down for at least two months. GM Mike Tannenbaum needs to get on the horn and bring in an experienced backup.
RUNNING IN PLACE: The coaching staff was hoping to see some big things from backup running backs Joe McKnight and rookie Bilal Powell, but they did virtually nothing -- a combined total of 10 rushing yards. Worse, McKnight lost a fumble, conjuring up memories of his mistake-prone preseason in 2010. So much for McKnight’s positive momentum.
POSITIVE AUDITIONS: Rex Ryan said they went into the game with three roster spots still up for grabs. Three defensive players helped their chances -- cornerback Ellis Lankster (67-yard interception return for a TD), outside linebacker Aaron Maybin (1.5 sacks) and rookie linebacker Nick Bellore. Outside linebacker Eddie Jones also flashed some potential. Ryan will have some difficult decisions to make at linebacker.
No one on offense really stood out, but rookie tight end Josh Baker showed some pass-catching ability and versatility. Baker, an H-Back in college, also lined up as a fullback. The Jets have only one fullback on the roster, John Conner, who is nursing a sprained ankle.
In a preview of the upcoming free-agency period, Alex Loeb (with the help of a few ESPN.com bloggers) takes a look at which teams will be most active on the open market.
In an "NFL Live" segment, ESPN analysts Mark Schlereth and Marcellus Wiley discussed the most explosive offense.
Each spoke definitively about his choice. Wiley went with the Philadelphia Eagles because of team speed. Schlereth backed the Green Bay Packers.
Yoo-hoo! Fellas?
What about the New England Patriots? All they did last year was score the most points in the league, averaging 4.8 points per game more than the team than finished second, the San Diego Chargers.
The Patriots scored a league-leading 56 offensive touchdowns. They did so on 986 scrimmage plays, just 22nd in the league. To give a better idea of what kind of neighborhood the Patriots were in when it came to snaps: Of the 10 teams that had fewer plays than the Patriots, the Tennessee Titans scored the most offensive TDs with 37.
In other words, the Patriots scored most frequently and on much fewer plays than most other clubs. Isn't that the definition of explosiveness?
The Patriots also added six more touchdowns on defense and three in the return game, but those aren't germane to this conversation. The Patriots still had the most potent offense last year and should be at least as dangerous in 2011. The whole crew is back.
Granted, the Patriots won't have a bunch of players drafted in the first three rounds of your fantasy league like the Eagles and Packers probably will, but quarterback Tom Brady is the reigning MVP and spreads the ball to a contingent of reliable players such as Wes Welker, Deion Branch, Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez and Danny Woodhead.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis isn't a superstar, but he was the AFC East's only 1,000-yard rusher last season. The line consistently performs at a high level and allows the Patriots to remain a balanced -- and explosive -- offense.
Each spoke definitively about his choice. Wiley went with the Philadelphia Eagles because of team speed. Schlereth backed the Green Bay Packers.
Yoo-hoo! Fellas?
What about the New England Patriots? All they did last year was score the most points in the league, averaging 4.8 points per game more than the team than finished second, the San Diego Chargers.
The Patriots scored a league-leading 56 offensive touchdowns. They did so on 986 scrimmage plays, just 22nd in the league. To give a better idea of what kind of neighborhood the Patriots were in when it came to snaps: Of the 10 teams that had fewer plays than the Patriots, the Tennessee Titans scored the most offensive TDs with 37.
In other words, the Patriots scored most frequently and on much fewer plays than most other clubs. Isn't that the definition of explosiveness?
The Patriots also added six more touchdowns on defense and three in the return game, but those aren't germane to this conversation. The Patriots still had the most potent offense last year and should be at least as dangerous in 2011. The whole crew is back.
Granted, the Patriots won't have a bunch of players drafted in the first three rounds of your fantasy league like the Eagles and Packers probably will, but quarterback Tom Brady is the reigning MVP and spreads the ball to a contingent of reliable players such as Wes Welker, Deion Branch, Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez and Danny Woodhead.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis isn't a superstar, but he was the AFC East's only 1,000-yard rusher last season. The line consistently performs at a high level and allows the Patriots to remain a balanced -- and explosive -- offense.
From lockup to lockout, Burress needs a job
June, 6, 2011
6/06/11
8:30
AM ET
By Tim Graham | ESPN.com
Out of prison, Plaxico Burress will be pursued by NFL teams and won't have trouble finding work in 2011.
That's what his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, claimed in an email to The Associated Press: "Many teams will want [Burress]. He will be a top free agent. He is healthy and ready to go. He will be signed shortly after the lockout ends."
Rosenhaus has been known to bluff about interest in his clients before. He declared "several teams" were hot for Terrell Owens in 2009, when the receiver made the Buffalo Bills his first visit and then signed before leaving town.
Teams must approach Burress with a healthy amount of skepticism. He will be 34 in August, hasn't caught a pass since before Thanksgiving 2008 and was slowing down even then. His average yards per catch had diminished for four straight seasons.
That said, Burress still is 6-foot-5 and can outmaneuver defensive backs as a third-down and red-zone threat.
Michael Vick's successful NFL return from prison also will make more teams open-minded about Burress, who spent 20 months in prison on handgun charges.
ESPN analyst Cris Carter estimated "a half-dozen" teams would be interested in Burress but expressed concern over Burress' ability to remain explosive. Burress had motivation problems to begin with and has had limited access to training facilities for nearly two years. Carter used New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis as an example. Revis merely missed training camp last year, yet was dogged by hamstring problems. Revis is eight years younger than Burress.
ESPN.com's blog network examined each NFL club's potential interest in Burress. You can read the rundown in chart form. I predicted the Jets would be the most interested, the Miami Dolphins would be lukewarm and the Bills and New England Patriots largely uninterested.
That's what his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, claimed in an email to The Associated Press: "Many teams will want [Burress]. He will be a top free agent. He is healthy and ready to go. He will be signed shortly after the lockout ends."
Rosenhaus has been known to bluff about interest in his clients before. He declared "several teams" were hot for Terrell Owens in 2009, when the receiver made the Buffalo Bills his first visit and then signed before leaving town.
Teams must approach Burress with a healthy amount of skepticism. He will be 34 in August, hasn't caught a pass since before Thanksgiving 2008 and was slowing down even then. His average yards per catch had diminished for four straight seasons.
That said, Burress still is 6-foot-5 and can outmaneuver defensive backs as a third-down and red-zone threat.
Michael Vick's successful NFL return from prison also will make more teams open-minded about Burress, who spent 20 months in prison on handgun charges.
ESPN analyst Cris Carter estimated "a half-dozen" teams would be interested in Burress but expressed concern over Burress' ability to remain explosive. Burress had motivation problems to begin with and has had limited access to training facilities for nearly two years. Carter used New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis as an example. Revis merely missed training camp last year, yet was dogged by hamstring problems. Revis is eight years younger than Burress.
ESPN.com's blog network examined each NFL club's potential interest in Burress. You can read the rundown in chart form. I predicted the Jets would be the most interested, the Miami Dolphins would be lukewarm and the Bills and New England Patriots largely uninterested.
You know who aren't locked out? ESPN.com's fantasy football folks.
Undeterred by the fact we haven't had free agency or an official workout yet, our intrepid rotagonists have put together their initial top 200 player rankings for 2011.
AFC East fans will be disappointed to find one player among the top 47.
The first AFC East player on the list is New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady at No. 20. He's the fourth quarterback behind Aaron Rodgers, Michael Vick and Drew Brees.
Sticking with quarterbacks, you'll need to scroll down to No. 122 to find Mark Sanchez of the New York Jets, the 19th-best fantasy quarterback on the list. Buffalo Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick comes in at No. 173, which makes him the 25th quarterback. Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne doesn't make the cut.
I'm not sure what's more surprising for the Dolphins: how many receivers are listed ahead of Brandon Marshall or how highly rated rookie running back Daniel Thomas is.
Marshall is the top Dolphins player at No. 60. That makes him the 23rd receiver on the chart. Thomas, without a single NFL snap to his credit, is just seven slots behind Marshall. Thomas is considered the 28th running back in the league from a fantasy standpoint.
Dolphins free-agent backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams are 119th and 165th overall, respectively. What a falloff.
The New York Jets are well-represented in terms of volume, but their highest-rated player is free agent Santonio Holmes at No. 49. He's the 18th receiver. Braylon Edwards is No. 85 overall and the 33rd wideout.
The Jets' backfield features Shonn Greene and LaDainian Tomlinson at Nos. 62 and 102. That makes them the 26th and 42nd fantasy running backs.
Wide receiver Steve Johnson is the highest-rated Buffalo player at No. 52. Running back Fred Jackson is only six slots behind him. Sophomore running back C.J. Spiller is No. 92. Receiver Lee Evans is No. 191.
For the Patriots, BenJarvus Green-Ellis is the highest non-Brady at No. 48, making him the 28th running back. Danny Woodhead is No. 141, or the 48th running back. Patriots receivers Wes Welker and Deion Branch are 55th and 112th. Tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez are 134th and 195th.
Undeterred by the fact we haven't had free agency or an official workout yet, our intrepid rotagonists have put together their initial top 200 player rankings for 2011.
AFC East fans will be disappointed to find one player among the top 47.
The first AFC East player on the list is New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady at No. 20. He's the fourth quarterback behind Aaron Rodgers, Michael Vick and Drew Brees.
Sticking with quarterbacks, you'll need to scroll down to No. 122 to find Mark Sanchez of the New York Jets, the 19th-best fantasy quarterback on the list. Buffalo Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick comes in at No. 173, which makes him the 25th quarterback. Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne doesn't make the cut.
I'm not sure what's more surprising for the Dolphins: how many receivers are listed ahead of Brandon Marshall or how highly rated rookie running back Daniel Thomas is.
Marshall is the top Dolphins player at No. 60. That makes him the 23rd receiver on the chart. Thomas, without a single NFL snap to his credit, is just seven slots behind Marshall. Thomas is considered the 28th running back in the league from a fantasy standpoint.
Dolphins free-agent backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams are 119th and 165th overall, respectively. What a falloff.
The New York Jets are well-represented in terms of volume, but their highest-rated player is free agent Santonio Holmes at No. 49. He's the 18th receiver. Braylon Edwards is No. 85 overall and the 33rd wideout.
The Jets' backfield features Shonn Greene and LaDainian Tomlinson at Nos. 62 and 102. That makes them the 26th and 42nd fantasy running backs.
Wide receiver Steve Johnson is the highest-rated Buffalo player at No. 52. Running back Fred Jackson is only six slots behind him. Sophomore running back C.J. Spiller is No. 92. Receiver Lee Evans is No. 191.
For the Patriots, BenJarvus Green-Ellis is the highest non-Brady at No. 48, making him the 28th running back. Danny Woodhead is No. 141, or the 48th running back. Patriots receivers Wes Welker and Deion Branch are 55th and 112th. Tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez are 134th and 195th.
The NFL Network is filling some of the lockout downtime with a countdown of the top 100 players, revealing 10 at a time every Sunday night.
The first AFC East players were mentioned in the most recent group, Nos. 71 through 80, as voted on by their league peers.
New York Jets left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson came in at No. 79. Jets receiver Santonio Holmes was No. 76.
Sunday night's recap show featured analysis from former New England Patriots outside linebacker Willie McGinest and reporter Jay Glazer. During the show, host Lindsay Soto mentioned 12 quarterbacks are among the top 100 and asked the experts to give their rankings.
McGinest's list:
Glazer's list (with a tie for 12th):
What do you think?
The first AFC East players were mentioned in the most recent group, Nos. 71 through 80, as voted on by their league peers.
New York Jets left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson came in at No. 79. Jets receiver Santonio Holmes was No. 76.
Sunday night's recap show featured analysis from former New England Patriots outside linebacker Willie McGinest and reporter Jay Glazer. During the show, host Lindsay Soto mentioned 12 quarterbacks are among the top 100 and asked the experts to give their rankings.
McGinest's list:
- Tom Brady, Patriots
- Peyton Manning, Colts
- Drew Brees, Saints
- Aaron Rodgers, Packers
- Philip Rivers, Chargers
- Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
- Michael Vick, Eagles
- Eli Manning, Giants
- Matt Schaub, Texans
- Matt Ryan, Falcons
- Tony Romo, Cowboys
- Donovan McNabb, Redskins
Glazer's list (with a tie for 12th):
- Tom Brady, Patriots
- Peyton Manning, Colts
- Drew Brees, Saints
- Aaron Rodgers, Packers
- Philip Rivers, Chargers
- Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
- Michael Vick, Eagles
- Matt Ryan, Falcons
- Eli Manning, Giants
- Tony Romo, Cowboys
- Josh Freeman, Buccaneers
- Matt Schaub, Texans, and Sam Bradford, Rams
What do you think?
ESPN.com's positional Power Rankings got around to quarterbacks Tuesday.
There were few surprises to me on the final list because my ballot was a near-Xerox of the final list. The only eyebrow-raiser for me was New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady not being the unanimous selection among the eight panelists.
Brady easily came out on top, but Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning received first-place votes from NFC West blogger Mike Sando and AFC South blogger Paul Kuharsky. Each voted Brady second.
Brady was the undisputed pick for the Associated Press MVP Award and for All-Pro, but Sando explained Manning still deserved the edge.
"Brady has the better stats over the last couple seasons, but the Colts would undoubtedly be far worse off than the Patriots if both teams had backups under center," Sando said. "Once that was established, Brady's recent postseason struggles became a deciding factor.
"These quarterbacks have, to an extent, switched roles recently. Manning has won a championship more recently than Brady has won one. Brady has seven touchdowns, seven picks and one victory in his last four playoff games. Manning has seven touchdowns, two picks and two victories in his last four."
I don't understand the logic there. Even without taking into consideration that Brady posted historic efficiency numbers in a totally revamped system that jettisoned Randy Moss, went from a spread offense to a two-tight end set and utilized a cast of overachievers and rookies, the concept of factoring past success is lost on me.
Power Rankings are a snapshot of the moment and are expected to change regularly, not encompass years of work. But if the reason for selecting Manning ahead of Brady is recent playoff performances that go back a few years, then Ben Roethlisberger should be ahead of Manning, right? Roethlisberger has been to a pair of Super Bowls and won his second title more recently than Manning's only championship.
Manning was third on two ballots, getting in line behind Green Bay Packers star Aaron Rodgers on NFC North blogger Kevin Seifert's list and behind Drew Brees on NFC South blogger Pat Yasinskas' list.
This was my ballot:
Compared to the consensus, I pegged nine of the 10 players exactly and each of the first eight quarterbacks listed. The only disparity was Schaub, who tied for 12th. New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning emerges as the group's choice for No. 8.
What are your thoughts?
There were few surprises to me on the final list because my ballot was a near-Xerox of the final list. The only eyebrow-raiser for me was New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady not being the unanimous selection among the eight panelists.
Brady easily came out on top, but Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning received first-place votes from NFC West blogger Mike Sando and AFC South blogger Paul Kuharsky. Each voted Brady second.
Brady was the undisputed pick for the Associated Press MVP Award and for All-Pro, but Sando explained Manning still deserved the edge.
"Brady has the better stats over the last couple seasons, but the Colts would undoubtedly be far worse off than the Patriots if both teams had backups under center," Sando said. "Once that was established, Brady's recent postseason struggles became a deciding factor.
"These quarterbacks have, to an extent, switched roles recently. Manning has won a championship more recently than Brady has won one. Brady has seven touchdowns, seven picks and one victory in his last four playoff games. Manning has seven touchdowns, two picks and two victories in his last four."
I don't understand the logic there. Even without taking into consideration that Brady posted historic efficiency numbers in a totally revamped system that jettisoned Randy Moss, went from a spread offense to a two-tight end set and utilized a cast of overachievers and rookies, the concept of factoring past success is lost on me.
Power Rankings are a snapshot of the moment and are expected to change regularly, not encompass years of work. But if the reason for selecting Manning ahead of Brady is recent playoff performances that go back a few years, then Ben Roethlisberger should be ahead of Manning, right? Roethlisberger has been to a pair of Super Bowls and won his second title more recently than Manning's only championship.
Manning was third on two ballots, getting in line behind Green Bay Packers star Aaron Rodgers on NFC North blogger Kevin Seifert's list and behind Drew Brees on NFC South blogger Pat Yasinskas' list.
This was my ballot:
- Tom Brady, Patriots
- Peyton Manning, Colts
- Aaron Rodgers, Packers
- Drew Brees, Saints
- Philip Rivers, Chargers
- Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers
- Michael Vick, Eagles
- Matt Ryan, Falcons
- Matt Schaub, Texans
- Joe Flacco, Ravens
Compared to the consensus, I pegged nine of the 10 players exactly and each of the first eight quarterbacks listed. The only disparity was Schaub, who tied for 12th. New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning emerges as the group's choice for No. 8.
What are your thoughts?
Report: Bills will play Eagles in Toronto
April, 19, 2011
4/19/11
10:28
AM ET
By Tim Graham | ESPN.com
The Fan 590 radio station in Toronto has reported the Buffalo Bills' annual game in Toronto will be against Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles in the Rogers Centre.
Morning hosts Jim Lang and Greg Brady reported the game -- a much sexier matchup than last year's meeting between the Bills and Chicago Bears -- likely would take place Nov. 13 or Nov. 20.
The NFL will release its schedule at 7 p.m. Tuesday.
The Bills' series in Toronto has been a yawner for Canadian fans. Seats have been difficult to fill and electricity tough to generate in a venue that has felt more like a mausoleum. The NFL has tried to help create local interest by constantly tinkering with kinds of opponents and dates.
When the first meaningful game took place in December 2008, Bills fans were upset about forfeiting a cold-weather game to the Miami Dolphins while the Bills still were alive for a playoff bid.
The NFL tried a Thursday night game against the New York Jets in 2009, but the idea of a prime-time game didn't make much difference. A nonconference opponent was tried last year with Chicago.
Buffalo is 0-3 in regular-season Toronto games, but 2-0 in the preseason exhibitions there.
Morning hosts Jim Lang and Greg Brady reported the game -- a much sexier matchup than last year's meeting between the Bills and Chicago Bears -- likely would take place Nov. 13 or Nov. 20.
The NFL will release its schedule at 7 p.m. Tuesday.
The Bills' series in Toronto has been a yawner for Canadian fans. Seats have been difficult to fill and electricity tough to generate in a venue that has felt more like a mausoleum. The NFL has tried to help create local interest by constantly tinkering with kinds of opponents and dates.
When the first meaningful game took place in December 2008, Bills fans were upset about forfeiting a cold-weather game to the Miami Dolphins while the Bills still were alive for a playoff bid.
The NFL tried a Thursday night game against the New York Jets in 2009, but the idea of a prime-time game didn't make much difference. A nonconference opponent was tried last year with Chicago.
Buffalo is 0-3 in regular-season Toronto games, but 2-0 in the preseason exhibitions there.
'Madden 12' cover down to Vick and Hillis
April, 18, 2011
4/18/11
7:17
PM ET
By Tim Graham | ESPN.com
All AFC East delegates were eliminated previously, but for the record: Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick are the finalists to appear on the "Madden NFL 12" cover.
Every team had a representative in the round-per-week tournament. ESPN.com voters are deciding the winners.
Hillis, the 10th seed on his side of the bracket, scored another upset. He soundly defeated the top seed, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Hillis also knocked off Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (second seed) and Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (sixth seed).
Vick was seeded third in his bracket. He advanced with a victory against Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson.
The AFC East nominees were New England Patriots running back Danny Woodhead, Buffalo Bills receiver Steve Johnson, New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez and Miami Dolphins left tackle Jake Long.
Woodhead lasted the longest, making it to the elite eight before Rodgers ousted him.
Every team had a representative in the round-per-week tournament. ESPN.com voters are deciding the winners.
Hillis, the 10th seed on his side of the bracket, scored another upset. He soundly defeated the top seed, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Hillis also knocked off Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (second seed) and Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (sixth seed).
Vick was seeded third in his bracket. He advanced with a victory against Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson.
The AFC East nominees were New England Patriots running back Danny Woodhead, Buffalo Bills receiver Steve Johnson, New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez and Miami Dolphins left tackle Jake Long.
Woodhead lasted the longest, making it to the elite eight before Rodgers ousted him.
I doubt Danny Woodhead will pout about it.
He's not the type.
Woodhead's quest to be on the cover of "Madden NFL 12" is over. The New England Patriots running back had fun with the campaign but received only 44 percent of the votes in his head-to-head matchup with Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis took three out of every five votes against Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles and advanced to meet Rodgers in the final four.
On the other side of the tournament bracket, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick got 61 percent of the vote to eliminate San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis, and Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson collected 62 percent against New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees.
He's not the type.
Woodhead's quest to be on the cover of "Madden NFL 12" is over. The New England Patriots running back had fun with the campaign but received only 44 percent of the votes in his head-to-head matchup with Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis took three out of every five votes against Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles and advanced to meet Rodgers in the final four.
On the other side of the tournament bracket, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick got 61 percent of the vote to eliminate San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis, and Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson collected 62 percent against New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees.
If there truly is a "Madden" curse, perhaps it's not reserved for the player who appears on the video game's cover each year.
Maybe the real curse is in choosing him.
"It's very polarizing," said Anthony Stevenson, senior product manager for EA Sports, the game's manufacturer. "No matter what we do, half the people will be really, really happy, and half the people will hate it."
Not even turning the process over to the people will solve EA Sports' annual problem. For the first time in the game's 23 years, fans can vote for their favorite team to be on the "Madden NFL 12" cover.
A representative for each of the 32 clubs has been seeded in a single-elimination tournament. A weeklong vote will be held for each round until a champion is announced April 27 on ESPN. Fans also can participate in a March Madness-style bracket challenge to predict the outcome.
Funzo democracy at work, right?
Turns out, folks aren't entirely thrilled with the individual nominees. Reigning MVP Tom Brady and perennial fan favorite Peyton Manning aren't in the field. The Miami Dolphins and Carolina Panthers are represented by offensive tackles. The Seattle Seahawks' option isn't a player at all.
One of the rumors making the rounds is that unusual nominees were required because some stars declined an invitation, that they were afraid of the so-called "Madden" curse.
Eddie George, Daunte Culpepper, Michael Vick, Vince Young and Brett Favre are among the supposedly doomed honorees.
Stevenson doesn't buy the connection, although fans have started Facebook campaigns for their favorite players not to get votes.
"People do believe there's a curse with Sports Illustrated covers or 'Madden' covers," Stevenson said. "As an NFL player, you cannot believe in that. If you believe in something like that, then you concede when you step on the field, and something bad happens it's not in your control.
"If you believe in a curse, you're probably in trouble. You're asking to get hurt. Athletes want to believe their well-being and their success or failure is 100 percent in their hands."
In fact, Stevenson sees the opposite of a curse when it comes to the "Madden" video-game franchise.
"All of our past cover athletes get together every year, and it's almost like the '72 Dolphins," Stevenson said. "They get together, and it's literally a fraternity."
This year's pledge period is a tournament bracket.
Stevenson called Thursday to explain why a few of the more interesting nominees were chosen.
On the decision to nominate New England Patriots running back Danny Woodhead instead of Brady:
On choosing the 12th Man for the Seahawks:
On bypassing Manning for Dwight Freeney for the Indianapolis Colts:
On choosing the Green Bay Packers' nominee, Aaron Rodgers:
On the New York Giants' decision:
On selecting left tackle Jake Long over a Dolphins skill-position player such as receiver Brandon Marshall:
Controversial nominees only help in getting fans enthused about the process.
In addition to creating buzz for the product, the "Madden NFL 12" cover tournament provides a distraction from an otherwise depressing time for the NFL.
"We thought it was really important to give our fans something to be excited about, put a positive spin on the NFL offseason," Stevenson said. "We're making a concerted effort to engage our fans and let them know that there's still going to be a new, innovating game coming out in August. And, if anything, football fans and 'Madden' fans can take solace in that.
"'Madden' potentially could help fill a void this year. Just because Tom Brady can't lead the Patriots to the Super Bowl doesn't mean you can't. You can still do that in 'Madden' and get your football fix."
Maybe the real curse is in choosing him.
"It's very polarizing," said Anthony Stevenson, senior product manager for EA Sports, the game's manufacturer. "No matter what we do, half the people will be really, really happy, and half the people will hate it."
Not even turning the process over to the people will solve EA Sports' annual problem. For the first time in the game's 23 years, fans can vote for their favorite team to be on the "Madden NFL 12" cover.
A representative for each of the 32 clubs has been seeded in a single-elimination tournament. A weeklong vote will be held for each round until a champion is announced April 27 on ESPN. Fans also can participate in a March Madness-style bracket challenge to predict the outcome.
Funzo democracy at work, right?
Turns out, folks aren't entirely thrilled with the individual nominees. Reigning MVP Tom Brady and perennial fan favorite Peyton Manning aren't in the field. The Miami Dolphins and Carolina Panthers are represented by offensive tackles. The Seattle Seahawks' option isn't a player at all.
One of the rumors making the rounds is that unusual nominees were required because some stars declined an invitation, that they were afraid of the so-called "Madden" curse.
Eddie George, Daunte Culpepper, Michael Vick, Vince Young and Brett Favre are among the supposedly doomed honorees.
Stevenson doesn't buy the connection, although fans have started Facebook campaigns for their favorite players not to get votes.
"People do believe there's a curse with Sports Illustrated covers or 'Madden' covers," Stevenson said. "As an NFL player, you cannot believe in that. If you believe in something like that, then you concede when you step on the field, and something bad happens it's not in your control.
"If you believe in a curse, you're probably in trouble. You're asking to get hurt. Athletes want to believe their well-being and their success or failure is 100 percent in their hands."
In fact, Stevenson sees the opposite of a curse when it comes to the "Madden" video-game franchise.
"All of our past cover athletes get together every year, and it's almost like the '72 Dolphins," Stevenson said. "They get together, and it's literally a fraternity."
This year's pledge period is a tournament bracket.
Stevenson called Thursday to explain why a few of the more interesting nominees were chosen.
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EA SportsDanny Woodhead's story was one reason he was picked over league MVP Tom Brady.
EA SportsDanny Woodhead's story was one reason he was picked over league MVP Tom Brady."Tom Brady has been there and done that, and certainly he's very deserving of a 'Madden' cover. But Danny Woodhead is such a unique story people fell in love with. He was on 'Hard Knocks.' We followed the emotional cut from the New York Jets. We know Rex Ryan didn't want to let him go. And then to see that division rival pick him up and how integral he was to that Patriots offense ... if you wanted to put a campaign around him from cut to cover, that's just tough to pass up. Everybody loves an underdog."
On choosing the 12th Man for the Seahawks:
"It's the only team that doesn't have an actual player. It's the 12th Man, and the simplest explanation I can give for that is to see the Saints-Seahawks playoff game. That's really all you need to know. They have this unique fan element to it. The 12th Man is legit."
On bypassing Manning for Dwight Freeney for the Indianapolis Colts:
"Like Tom Brady, Peyton Manning is justified to be on the cover any year. But it almost feels that while [Manning] had a very good year, it wasn't his best year. Statistically, it probably was his least successful year in the last five or six. To do it this year seemed a little bit off.
"Dwight Freeney is one of the most feared defenders in the league. We just thought this was something Dwight Freeney could get excited about and get behind and be a brand ambassador."
On choosing the Green Bay Packers' nominee, Aaron Rodgers:
"Green Bay was really difficult. Clay Matthews is a very compelling personality right now. That was a tough decision, but at the end of the day, if you win Super Bowl MVP, you're going to get the nod. But it was a struggle."
On the New York Giants' decision:
"There's Eli Manning. There's Ahmad Bradshaw. But in the end we went with Hakeem Nicks because I felt like he's really the game-changer on that team. He's an up-and-coming wide receiver. I don't think anybody would be shocked if he was a top-three wide receiver at the end of next season. I thought he was fresh blood that would be very interesting."
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EA SportsJake Long is the Dolphins' representative for the "Madden NFL 12" cover tournament.
EA SportsJake Long is the Dolphins' representative for the "Madden NFL 12" cover tournament."Jake Long's play on the field speaks for itself. But having that lineman -- along with [Carolina Panthers tackle] Jordan Gross -- is something we've never had. We wanted to give fans options. If there wasn't an absolutely obvious choice, and for the Dolphins there wasn't, why not give fans an opportunity to vote for an offensive lineman?"
Controversial nominees only help in getting fans enthused about the process.
In addition to creating buzz for the product, the "Madden NFL 12" cover tournament provides a distraction from an otherwise depressing time for the NFL.
"We thought it was really important to give our fans something to be excited about, put a positive spin on the NFL offseason," Stevenson said. "We're making a concerted effort to engage our fans and let them know that there's still going to be a new, innovating game coming out in August. And, if anything, football fans and 'Madden' fans can take solace in that.
"'Madden' potentially could help fill a void this year. Just because Tom Brady can't lead the Patriots to the Super Bowl doesn't mean you can't. You can still do that in 'Madden' and get your football fix."
Plaxico Burress is scheduled to get out of the pokey June 6.
That would give the former New York Giants receiver plenty of time to get on a roster and play a full season. If a labor standoff doesn't compress the summer workout schedule, Burress also would have a good chance to learn the new offense by opening day.
Would Burress be a fit in the AFC East?
Before we consider each team, let's project the kind of receiver Burress will be.
His 34th birthday is in August. He hasn't caught an NFL pass since November 2008. Even before he went to prison after accidentally shooting himself at a Manhattan nightclub, his average yards per catch diminished four straight years.
Still, he's 6-foot-5 and always a threat to sky over defensive backs.
"When you look at him on the field, the guy is tall," ESPN analyst Tim Hasselbeck said Monday. "He's got long arms. One of the things the Giants loved to do is they'd get on [the opponent's] 45 and take a shot. With the way the rules are set up in the National Football League, it's absolutely perfect for a guy like Plaxico Burress, whose got the long arms, got the reach, who understands how to use his body.
"He's not as fast as he was two years ago. He can still be effective and still can help somebody out if that team ends up trusting him."
Hasselbeck said Burress' employment prospects could be helped by Michael Vick's successful return from prison. Vick seemed to have grown from the experience. Maybe Burress did, too.
Next to Hasselbeck on the "NFL Live" set was former Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce, who claimed prison might have helped Burress in another way. Pierce won a Super Bowl ring after Burress caught the decisive touchdown to deny the New England Patriots' perfect season.
"He was in jail for two years, and that's a lot of time for that body to heal up," Pierce said. "Plaxico had some ankle, some knee injuries. You sit around for two years, your body starts to heal.
"There's some teams out there ... that would love to have his services."
The AFC East could be a destination. I reached out to Scouts Inc. analyst Matt Williamson for his thoughts on the four rosters and whether or not there would be room for a receiver like Burress.
"I really don't know what he will be able to provide," Williamson said. "He obviously will be the same size when he returns and should continue to use his big frame well, especially near the goal line. It is speculation as to what he will be like athletically, but I have to think that his big play ability and suddenness will be greatly compromised."
Buffalo Bills
Their receiving corps looks solid, but it can be upgraded. Lee Evans has been a disappointment, but defenses must account for him at all times. Steve Johnson had a breakout season with more than 1,073 yards and 10 touchdowns. Roscoe Parrish had the best season of his career even though a broken wrist sidelined him after just eight games. Undrafted rookie David Nelson stepped up late in the year when injuries provided an opportunity. Interest in Burress: Low.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins have invested heavily in Brandon Marshall, and Burress probably offers a similar skill set at this stage. They are tall, possession receivers who don't stretch the field (anymore). The Dolphins also have their slot receiver in Davone Bess. While Burress could help the Dolphins' woeful red-zone offense, what they need is a speedster who can help Chad Henne blow the top of coverages on occasion and loosen things up for Marshall and Bess underneath. Interest in Burress: Medium.
New England Patriots
The Patriots, as Williamson noted, are in a similar situation as the Dolphins. The Patriots have Wes Welker and Deion Branch plus tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. Their greatest need in the passing game is a lightning bolt to help Tom Brady keep defenses honest. Brandon Tate and Taylor Price are burners, but they are young and haven't established themselves as capable. Interest in Burress: Low.
New York Jets
The Jets seemingly present the greatest possibility for Burress in the AFC East. "That could be a fit," Williamson said. "I could see them taking the risk. And after free agency departures, Burress might be attractive. Plus, they are in win-now mode." Points well taken. The Jets might not be able to re-sign all of their free-agent receivers: Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards and Brad Smith. General manager Mike Tannenbaum and head coach Rex Ryan have shown with Holmes, Edwards and Antonio Cromartie they're open to second chances. Interest in Burress: High.
That would give the former New York Giants receiver plenty of time to get on a roster and play a full season. If a labor standoff doesn't compress the summer workout schedule, Burress also would have a good chance to learn the new offense by opening day.
Would Burress be a fit in the AFC East?
Before we consider each team, let's project the kind of receiver Burress will be.
His 34th birthday is in August. He hasn't caught an NFL pass since November 2008. Even before he went to prison after accidentally shooting himself at a Manhattan nightclub, his average yards per catch diminished four straight years.
Still, he's 6-foot-5 and always a threat to sky over defensive backs.
"When you look at him on the field, the guy is tall," ESPN analyst Tim Hasselbeck said Monday. "He's got long arms. One of the things the Giants loved to do is they'd get on [the opponent's] 45 and take a shot. With the way the rules are set up in the National Football League, it's absolutely perfect for a guy like Plaxico Burress, whose got the long arms, got the reach, who understands how to use his body.
[+] Enlarge
Chris Morrison/US PresswirePlaxico Burress will be 34 and playing for the first time since the 2008 season.
Chris Morrison/US PresswirePlaxico Burress will be 34 and playing for the first time since the 2008 season.Hasselbeck said Burress' employment prospects could be helped by Michael Vick's successful return from prison. Vick seemed to have grown from the experience. Maybe Burress did, too.
Next to Hasselbeck on the "NFL Live" set was former Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce, who claimed prison might have helped Burress in another way. Pierce won a Super Bowl ring after Burress caught the decisive touchdown to deny the New England Patriots' perfect season.
"He was in jail for two years, and that's a lot of time for that body to heal up," Pierce said. "Plaxico had some ankle, some knee injuries. You sit around for two years, your body starts to heal.
"There's some teams out there ... that would love to have his services."
The AFC East could be a destination. I reached out to Scouts Inc. analyst Matt Williamson for his thoughts on the four rosters and whether or not there would be room for a receiver like Burress.
"I really don't know what he will be able to provide," Williamson said. "He obviously will be the same size when he returns and should continue to use his big frame well, especially near the goal line. It is speculation as to what he will be like athletically, but I have to think that his big play ability and suddenness will be greatly compromised."
Buffalo Bills
Their receiving corps looks solid, but it can be upgraded. Lee Evans has been a disappointment, but defenses must account for him at all times. Steve Johnson had a breakout season with more than 1,073 yards and 10 touchdowns. Roscoe Parrish had the best season of his career even though a broken wrist sidelined him after just eight games. Undrafted rookie David Nelson stepped up late in the year when injuries provided an opportunity. Interest in Burress: Low.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins have invested heavily in Brandon Marshall, and Burress probably offers a similar skill set at this stage. They are tall, possession receivers who don't stretch the field (anymore). The Dolphins also have their slot receiver in Davone Bess. While Burress could help the Dolphins' woeful red-zone offense, what they need is a speedster who can help Chad Henne blow the top of coverages on occasion and loosen things up for Marshall and Bess underneath. Interest in Burress: Medium.
New England Patriots
The Patriots, as Williamson noted, are in a similar situation as the Dolphins. The Patriots have Wes Welker and Deion Branch plus tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. Their greatest need in the passing game is a lightning bolt to help Tom Brady keep defenses honest. Brandon Tate and Taylor Price are burners, but they are young and haven't established themselves as capable. Interest in Burress: Low.
New York Jets
The Jets seemingly present the greatest possibility for Burress in the AFC East. "That could be a fit," Williamson said. "I could see them taking the risk. And after free agency departures, Burress might be attractive. Plus, they are in win-now mode." Points well taken. The Jets might not be able to re-sign all of their free-agent receivers: Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards and Brad Smith. General manager Mike Tannenbaum and head coach Rex Ryan have shown with Holmes, Edwards and Antonio Cromartie they're open to second chances. Interest in Burress: High.
Is David Harris worth Jets' franchise tag?
February, 23, 2011
2/23/11
10:28
AM ET
By Tim Graham | ESPN.com
Of all the New York Jets about to become free agents, the club deemed inside linebacker David Harris worthy of their franchise tag.
HarrisDoes Harris truly deserve top-five money?
In an ESPN Insider column, Football Outsiders managing editor Bill Barnwell shines a spotlight on Harris and three others as the most "borderline" cases for the franchise tag.
Barnwell states a case why Michael Vick isn't worth the Philadelphia Eagles' tag despite being an MVP candidate for much of the season.
Harris, though, is a stud.
Harris has been integral to the Jets' defense. Barnwell proposes Harris might be the NFL's best run-stopping linebacker and illustrates that theory with an amazing stat.
The season before the Jets drafted Harris (second round out of Michigan in 2007), they ranked dead last in Football Outsiders' run defense metric. The Jets remained rock bottom in 2007 until Harris became a starter in Week 8. From that point on, they ranked eighth and haven't been lower than eighth in every season with Harris as the full-time starter.
Sounds to me like he's worth every penny.
In an ESPN Insider column, Football Outsiders managing editor Bill Barnwell shines a spotlight on Harris and three others as the most "borderline" cases for the franchise tag.
Barnwell states a case why Michael Vick isn't worth the Philadelphia Eagles' tag despite being an MVP candidate for much of the season.
Harris, though, is a stud.
Harris has been integral to the Jets' defense. Barnwell proposes Harris might be the NFL's best run-stopping linebacker and illustrates that theory with an amazing stat.
The season before the Jets drafted Harris (second round out of Michigan in 2007), they ranked dead last in Football Outsiders' run defense metric. The Jets remained rock bottom in 2007 until Harris became a starter in Week 8. From that point on, they ranked eighth and haven't been lower than eighth in every season with Harris as the full-time starter.
Sounds to me like he's worth every penny.
A 15-player trade? We can outdo that ...
February, 22, 2011
2/22/11
10:11
AM ET
By Tim Graham | ESPN.com
The Carmelo Anthony megatrade is a dominant sports story at the moment.
Anthony is headed to the New York Knicks in a three-way trade that involves 15 players and draft choices plus $6 million in cash.
NFL writers are comparing the trade to the Herschel Walker jaw-dropper in 1989. The Dallas Cowboys sent him to the Minnesota Vikings in a deal comprised of 18 players and draft picks.
That got me thinking ...
Rather than rehash some of the most leviathan trades in AFC East history, let's conjure up something that would be in the Anthony or Walker ballpark.
My assignment to you: Sketch out a trade scenario involving an AFC East club and a superstar that involves more components than an assemble-it-yourself entertainment center.
The rest I'm leaving up to you. Be as creative as you want. The featured player could be coming into the division or exiting. Send Tom Brady to the Arizona Cardinals. Lure Michael Vick to the Miami Dolphins. Swap Darrelle Revis for Troy Polamalu as a starting point.
Drop your proposal in the comments section underneath this article. I'll sift through the submissions and highlight the best in a future post. I'll be on the lookout for the most reasonable, unwieldy and imaginative offers. Bonus points if you explain your logic.
Now get transcrackin'.
Anthony is headed to the New York Knicks in a three-way trade that involves 15 players and draft choices plus $6 million in cash.
NFL writers are comparing the trade to the Herschel Walker jaw-dropper in 1989. The Dallas Cowboys sent him to the Minnesota Vikings in a deal comprised of 18 players and draft picks.
That got me thinking ...
Rather than rehash some of the most leviathan trades in AFC East history, let's conjure up something that would be in the Anthony or Walker ballpark.
My assignment to you: Sketch out a trade scenario involving an AFC East club and a superstar that involves more components than an assemble-it-yourself entertainment center.
The rest I'm leaving up to you. Be as creative as you want. The featured player could be coming into the division or exiting. Send Tom Brady to the Arizona Cardinals. Lure Michael Vick to the Miami Dolphins. Swap Darrelle Revis for Troy Polamalu as a starting point.
Drop your proposal in the comments section underneath this article. I'll sift through the submissions and highlight the best in a future post. I'll be on the lookout for the most reasonable, unwieldy and imaginative offers. Bonus points if you explain your logic.
Now get transcrackin'.
AFC East links: Gostkowski on the mend
February, 16, 2011
2/16/11
9:01
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Buffalo Bills
Bills defensive tackle Torell Troup goes the family route when training in the offseason.
Should the Bills make a move for Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb, who might now be available for a cheaper price after Philadelphia put the franchise tag on Michael Vick?
Miami Dolphins
With a lockout looming, players are looking to alternative sites for their offseason training.
New England Patriots
Matt Light says he doesn't expect a new labor deal to be completed before the current agreement expires early next month.
Stephen Gostkowski is continuing to rehab from the torn quadriceps he suffered last season.
New York Jets
Rich Cimini explains why the Jets decided to put the franchise tag on linebacker David Harris.
In case you missed it, Trevor Pryce shares his thoughts on coach Rex Ryan's Super Bowl guarantee.
Bills defensive tackle Torell Troup goes the family route when training in the offseason.
Should the Bills make a move for Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb, who might now be available for a cheaper price after Philadelphia put the franchise tag on Michael Vick?
Miami Dolphins
With a lockout looming, players are looking to alternative sites for their offseason training.
New England Patriots
Matt Light says he doesn't expect a new labor deal to be completed before the current agreement expires early next month.
Stephen Gostkowski is continuing to rehab from the torn quadriceps he suffered last season.
New York Jets
Rich Cimini explains why the Jets decided to put the franchise tag on linebacker David Harris.
In case you missed it, Trevor Pryce shares his thoughts on coach Rex Ryan's Super Bowl guarantee.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
James Walker
Walker joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the NFL and NBA for the Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch. He's a Temple graduate and Hyattsville, Md. native who lives in Miami.
