AFC South: Rod Issac
Reading the coverage …
Peyton Manning’s health could have a bearing on Gary Kubiak and Jack Del Rio says Len Pasquarelli.
Houston Texans
The Texans have avoided serious injuries, says John McClain.
Mario Williams was a factor in San Francisco despite no stats, says John McClain.
Says McClain: “I believe this season is going to be another wild ride, but I think they’ll win tough games at the end rather than blow them like last season.”
The Texans’ offensive line is underrated, say Aaron Schatz in this Insider piece.
Alan Burge rewatched the game with an eye on Williams.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts' veteran additions -- Ernie Sims, Jamaal Anderson, Tommie Harris and Tyler Brayton -- are getting good reviews, says Phil Richards.
Stampede Blue puts together a 53-man roster without Donald Brown, Jerry Hughes, Anthony Gonzalez, Mike Pollak and Curtis Painter. You can make a case against all of them, but I can’t see the Colts lopping off so many young, drafted guys.
Considering defenders on the bubble with Brett Mock.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars hope the return of several veterans puts the team back on a good track, says Vito Stellino.
Rod Issac’s been working at safety and his status will shake out this week, says John Oehser.
Tennessee Titans
Mike Munchak listens to input, then owns his decisions, writes David Boclair.
The Titans are ready to get Kenny Britt going, says Jim Wyatt.
The passing game had timing issues, says John Glennon.
Tennessee will be thin at defensive end for the preseason finale, says Glennon.
Peyton Manning’s health could have a bearing on Gary Kubiak and Jack Del Rio says Len Pasquarelli.
Houston Texans
The Texans have avoided serious injuries, says John McClain.
Mario Williams was a factor in San Francisco despite no stats, says John McClain.
Says McClain: “I believe this season is going to be another wild ride, but I think they’ll win tough games at the end rather than blow them like last season.”
The Texans’ offensive line is underrated, say Aaron Schatz in this Insider piece.
Alan Burge rewatched the game with an eye on Williams.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts' veteran additions -- Ernie Sims, Jamaal Anderson, Tommie Harris and Tyler Brayton -- are getting good reviews, says Phil Richards.
Stampede Blue puts together a 53-man roster without Donald Brown, Jerry Hughes, Anthony Gonzalez, Mike Pollak and Curtis Painter. You can make a case against all of them, but I can’t see the Colts lopping off so many young, drafted guys.
Considering defenders on the bubble with Brett Mock.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars hope the return of several veterans puts the team back on a good track, says Vito Stellino.
Rod Issac’s been working at safety and his status will shake out this week, says John Oehser.
Tennessee Titans
Mike Munchak listens to input, then owns his decisions, writes David Boclair.
The Titans are ready to get Kenny Britt going, says Jim Wyatt.
The passing game had timing issues, says John Glennon.
Tennessee will be thin at defensive end for the preseason finale, says Glennon.
In first action, Gabbert gets little help
August, 11, 2011
8/11/11
10:52
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Welcome to David Garrard’s world, Blaine Gabbert.
Jacksonville’s rookie quarterback started in New England on Thursday night.
He made some good and quick decisions. But he was ultimately undone by rookie inexperience and, in part, by the same things that often helped undo the veteran he is expected to sit behind. Gabbert’s protection broke down and allowed three sacks and his targets -- including Mike Thomas, Tiquan Underwood and Zach Miller -- dropped passes.
The Patriots beat the Jaguars 47-12 in the preseason opener for both teams as Gabbert played the first half, completing 9 of 16 passes for 85 yards.
New England defensive back Patrick Chung also got in on the drop action, sparing Gabbert an interception on a poorly thrown ball behind and over Jarett Dillard in the second quarter.
At least one other problem from last season resurfaced, poor tackling by cornerbacks. Second-string corner David Jones flailed on a couple tackles in key spots and rookie Rod Issac had a bad miss early in the third quarter. Another corner, undrafted rookie Terrence Wheatley, got lost in coverage a couple times before intermission.
Gabbert was the most significant Jaguars' story, though. When he left the game it was 19-9. The Patriots poured it on from there.
He showed composure considering it was his first action in an NFL game setting, playing with first-stringers (minus some key guys) against a team that sat a large share of front-liners. He also held the ball too long at times and made some bad throws that had nothing to do with protection or the hands of his targets.
All in all, it was the sort of outing you’d expect.
It’s likely his work comes later next week against Atlanta, presuming Garrard’s back is better.
Jacksonville’s rookie quarterback started in New England on Thursday night.
He made some good and quick decisions. But he was ultimately undone by rookie inexperience and, in part, by the same things that often helped undo the veteran he is expected to sit behind. Gabbert’s protection broke down and allowed three sacks and his targets -- including Mike Thomas, Tiquan Underwood and Zach Miller -- dropped passes.
The Patriots beat the Jaguars 47-12 in the preseason opener for both teams as Gabbert played the first half, completing 9 of 16 passes for 85 yards.
New England defensive back Patrick Chung also got in on the drop action, sparing Gabbert an interception on a poorly thrown ball behind and over Jarett Dillard in the second quarter.
At least one other problem from last season resurfaced, poor tackling by cornerbacks. Second-string corner David Jones flailed on a couple tackles in key spots and rookie Rod Issac had a bad miss early in the third quarter. Another corner, undrafted rookie Terrence Wheatley, got lost in coverage a couple times before intermission.
Gabbert was the most significant Jaguars' story, though. When he left the game it was 19-9. The Patriots poured it on from there.
He showed composure considering it was his first action in an NFL game setting, playing with first-stringers (minus some key guys) against a team that sat a large share of front-liners. He also held the ball too long at times and made some bad throws that had nothing to do with protection or the hands of his targets.
All in all, it was the sort of outing you’d expect.
It’s likely his work comes later next week against Atlanta, presuming Garrard’s back is better.
Initial depth charts are like all of them -- unofficial and not always accurate.
Still, they are teams putting players and slots on the record.
The Jaguars' release for their preseason debut is out, and a depth chart is a required part of it.
No major surprises, but here’s stuff of note:
Still, they are teams putting players and slots on the record.
The Jaguars' release for their preseason debut is out, and a depth chart is a required part of it.
No major surprises, but here’s stuff of note:
- Jason Spitz is the starting left guard ahead of rookie third-rounder Will Rackley.
- Aaron Kampman is at right end with Austen Lane at left end.
- Dawan Landry is at free safety, with Courtney Greene at strong safety. Rookie fourth-rounder Chris Prosinski is Landry’s backup, and Mike Hamlin is behind Greene, ahead of Don Carey.
- D’Anthony Smith is a third-string defensive tackle behind Leger Douzable and C.J. Mosley.
- Fifth-round draft pick Rod Issac ranks as a fourth-string cornerback.
- Mike Thomas is the top punt returner with Deji Karim the top kick returner. Scotty McGee is behind both.
Camp Confidential: Jacksonville Jaguars
August, 3, 2011
8/03/11
1:02
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Jaguars aren’t looking for parades or pinwheels as congratulations. But in the two years since Gene Smith took over as general manager, they’ve basically gutted the roster. And while setting about a major rebuilding project, they remained competitive with a 7-9 season and an 8-8 campaign.
After another draft and an active free-agency period, they now feel the rebuild is complete.
“There is an expectation level in this league to win, and I think having some horses makes us all smile in this building,” Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio said. “I think we went out and acquired some guys for the second and third level of our defense where we talked about needing some help. ... It’s going to help us be a whole lot better.
“The pressure, the demands, that’s part of what we do, and I love that part of it. It becomes a little more enjoyable when you know you’re getting closer to being on equal footing."
Del Rio’s not buying that the Colts are slipping, and he’s not waiting for them to. The in-house expectation is that this team is capable of competing for the AFC South crown no matter what any other team in the division has going for it.
Bolstered by four upgrades among the top 12 players on defense, Jacksonville is a team that should be much improved. The Jaguars won’t be a popular pick, but they could be a surprise, emergent team.
THREE HOT ISSUES
1. Will there be a quarterback controversy? The team stands firmly with David Garrard and intends to bring first-round pick Blaine Gabbert along slowly. But Gabbert has looked great early, while Garrard tends to be inconsistent. There are bound to be times during the season when there is some pressure to make a change from inside team headquarters, not just from media and fans.
“If we ever get to the point where we think Blaine is better than Dave, that’s good for the Jaguars,” offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter said. “Because I think Dave is good enough to win with; I think we can win our division with Dave Garrard at quarterback. If Blaine is better than Dave, shoot, that’s good for us.”
Del Rio and Koetter could have a complicated job managing how and when to play Gabbert if they feel he’s forcing his way into the lineup.
“I’ve got a healthy appreciation for the desire out there to make it a story,” Del Rio said. “For us, we’re about maximizing our opportunities as a football team, playing the guys who give us the best chance to win games and working on the preparation. ...
“Through the course of competition and exposure and based on health, those factors kind of take care of themselves. I don’t think we have to get ahead of the story. I think we can just let it play out, and at least we are doing so from a position of strength. There is no reason to make it dysfunctional, make it unhealthy. What purpose does that serve? It’s not going to help us win more games.”
It sounds good, but it can get complicated. Garrard’s the guy right now, and the team and the quarterback need to do a better job of making sure he gets hit far less so he can make consistently good decisions with the ball.
Factor tight ends Marcedes Lewis and Zach Miller and running backs Maurice Jones-Drew and Rashad Jennings into the mix with the receivers, and the Jaguars have sufficient weapons to complement a run-based offense. Mike Thomas, Jason Hill and Cecil Shorts could be a better three-pack of receivers than many people think.
2. How much better can the revamped defense be? If this defense doesn’t improve from 32nd against the pass, 28th overall and 27th in points allowed, Del Rio will lose his job.
The team shelled out $37 million guaranteed to three prime free agents: linebackers Paul Posluszny and Clint Session and safety Dawan Landry. The Jags also added nickelback Drew Coleman.
That group, plus rookie defensive backs Chris Prosinski and Rod Issac, should vastly improve the defensive production and depth.
Smith wanted to build foundations early and spent his first two drafts working on the lines. Defensive tackles Tyson Alualu and Terrance Knighton should take up all kinds of blockers and create space for the two new linebackers and the underrated Daryl Smith to make a lot of impact plays.
“Jacksonville’s interior D-line really stood out,” Posluszny said about his research as a free agent. “They’ve got two studs in the middle that are very active, get to the ball a lot and certainly are going to take up a lot of blockers.”
Safety play last season was horrific, and Landry will be a significant upgrade even though he didn’t bring Ed Reed with him from Baltimore.
“I’m not looking for any grace period to assemble this defense,” Del Rio said. "Guys we’re assembling and counting on for the most part are veterans. ... We’re going to expect to play coming out of the gate as a winning football team, and defensively we’ve got a lot of work to do.”
3. Can they play well late in the season? December is a debacle for this team.
In the past three seasons in games played in December and beyond, the Jaguars are 4-11. They need to learn to finish games and seasons better. What can change it?
“I think in Week 13 or something, we had a better record than the Packers did last year,” Daryl Smith said. “They got hot, and who would have thought they would go on to win? That could be us. Why not? We have to try to stay off of that roller coaster, try to be consistent, just get better each week. Steady, steady, steady, then come late November or December, get hot.”
“I’ve been in the playoffs twice since I’ve been here and that’s been the formula. … We can’t feel like we arrived when we have a good game or played well and won a couple games.”
Del Rio says that with a more talented roster, he has to guide it to better work in the last quarter of the season.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
Beat writers and fans call Austen Lane “The Bringer of Pain.” It’s funny. But he looks like a guy who will make it hard for the team to look anywhere else for its second starting defensive end. He can be a ball of fury, and that will fit right in with the tone and tempo of the rest of the defensive front.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Right tackle Eben Britton came in with a reputation as a nasty player, and the team missed him last season when he was lost with a shoulder injury. I’ve picked him as a breakout-caliber guy this season. But word is he has not been great so far. Perhaps he’s still being cautious and easing his way back, but he needs to take things up a big notch soon.
OBSERVATION DECK
After another draft and an active free-agency period, they now feel the rebuild is complete.
“There is an expectation level in this league to win, and I think having some horses makes us all smile in this building,” Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio said. “I think we went out and acquired some guys for the second and third level of our defense where we talked about needing some help. ... It’s going to help us be a whole lot better.
“The pressure, the demands, that’s part of what we do, and I love that part of it. It becomes a little more enjoyable when you know you’re getting closer to being on equal footing."
Del Rio’s not buying that the Colts are slipping, and he’s not waiting for them to. The in-house expectation is that this team is capable of competing for the AFC South crown no matter what any other team in the division has going for it.
Bolstered by four upgrades among the top 12 players on defense, Jacksonville is a team that should be much improved. The Jaguars won’t be a popular pick, but they could be a surprise, emergent team.
THREE HOT ISSUES
[+] Enlarge
Phil Sears/US PresswireThe Jaguars say they will develop Blaine Gabbert (left) slowly and have David Garrard take the snaps as the team's starter.
Phil Sears/US PresswireThe Jaguars say they will develop Blaine Gabbert (left) slowly and have David Garrard take the snaps as the team's starter.“If we ever get to the point where we think Blaine is better than Dave, that’s good for the Jaguars,” offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter said. “Because I think Dave is good enough to win with; I think we can win our division with Dave Garrard at quarterback. If Blaine is better than Dave, shoot, that’s good for us.”
Del Rio and Koetter could have a complicated job managing how and when to play Gabbert if they feel he’s forcing his way into the lineup.
“I’ve got a healthy appreciation for the desire out there to make it a story,” Del Rio said. “For us, we’re about maximizing our opportunities as a football team, playing the guys who give us the best chance to win games and working on the preparation. ...
“Through the course of competition and exposure and based on health, those factors kind of take care of themselves. I don’t think we have to get ahead of the story. I think we can just let it play out, and at least we are doing so from a position of strength. There is no reason to make it dysfunctional, make it unhealthy. What purpose does that serve? It’s not going to help us win more games.”
It sounds good, but it can get complicated. Garrard’s the guy right now, and the team and the quarterback need to do a better job of making sure he gets hit far less so he can make consistently good decisions with the ball.
Factor tight ends Marcedes Lewis and Zach Miller and running backs Maurice Jones-Drew and Rashad Jennings into the mix with the receivers, and the Jaguars have sufficient weapons to complement a run-based offense. Mike Thomas, Jason Hill and Cecil Shorts could be a better three-pack of receivers than many people think.
2. How much better can the revamped defense be? If this defense doesn’t improve from 32nd against the pass, 28th overall and 27th in points allowed, Del Rio will lose his job.
The team shelled out $37 million guaranteed to three prime free agents: linebackers Paul Posluszny and Clint Session and safety Dawan Landry. The Jags also added nickelback Drew Coleman.
That group, plus rookie defensive backs Chris Prosinski and Rod Issac, should vastly improve the defensive production and depth.
Smith wanted to build foundations early and spent his first two drafts working on the lines. Defensive tackles Tyson Alualu and Terrance Knighton should take up all kinds of blockers and create space for the two new linebackers and the underrated Daryl Smith to make a lot of impact plays.
“Jacksonville’s interior D-line really stood out,” Posluszny said about his research as a free agent. “They’ve got two studs in the middle that are very active, get to the ball a lot and certainly are going to take up a lot of blockers.”
Safety play last season was horrific, and Landry will be a significant upgrade even though he didn’t bring Ed Reed with him from Baltimore.
“I’m not looking for any grace period to assemble this defense,” Del Rio said. "Guys we’re assembling and counting on for the most part are veterans. ... We’re going to expect to play coming out of the gate as a winning football team, and defensively we’ve got a lot of work to do.”
3. Can they play well late in the season? December is a debacle for this team.
In the past three seasons in games played in December and beyond, the Jaguars are 4-11. They need to learn to finish games and seasons better. What can change it?
“I think in Week 13 or something, we had a better record than the Packers did last year,” Daryl Smith said. “They got hot, and who would have thought they would go on to win? That could be us. Why not? We have to try to stay off of that roller coaster, try to be consistent, just get better each week. Steady, steady, steady, then come late November or December, get hot.”
“I’ve been in the playoffs twice since I’ve been here and that’s been the formula. … We can’t feel like we arrived when we have a good game or played well and won a couple games.”
Del Rio says that with a more talented roster, he has to guide it to better work in the last quarter of the season.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
[+] Enlarge
Scott A. Miller/US PresswireJacksonville could look to Austen Lane to help solidify their defensive line.
Scott A. Miller/US PresswireJacksonville could look to Austen Lane to help solidify their defensive line.BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Right tackle Eben Britton came in with a reputation as a nasty player, and the team missed him last season when he was lost with a shoulder injury. I’ve picked him as a breakout-caliber guy this season. But word is he has not been great so far. Perhaps he’s still being cautious and easing his way back, but he needs to take things up a big notch soon.
OBSERVATION DECK
- Two years ago, people were writing off center Brad Meester. But defenses were taking advantage of weak guard play to get to him. He rebounded well last season and is a guy whom coaches love as a reliable offensive line leader.
- Knighton’s weight always will be an issue. The defensive tackle is a great player and superlikable guy. The team cannot hold his fork for him. The more he can control it, the more impact and money he will make.
- Prosinski could well be in the opening day lineup as the free safety. He worked with the first team early in camp and might be up to a pairing with Landry in the middle of the secondary. Rashean Mathis and Derek Cox need to play better at corner, but the Jaguars will improve from the safety upgrades and from the presence of veteran nickelback Drew Coleman.
- Looking for an underdog to root for? How about undrafted free agent Marc Schiechl? He set a Football Championship Subdivision record for sacks at the Colorado School of Mines.
- Scotty McGee isn’t working with defensive backs regularly anymore. Can he stick as strictly a punt-return specialist? He caught 185 punts on one day of camp. And the team should move away from using Thomas in the role, although McGee is hardly the only alternative.
- I like Miller, and the team raves about his potential. But he’s been inconsistent early in camp with too many drops. He’s got great hands, so it seems to be a focus issue.
- Larry Hart may be in the doghouse for coming back from the lockout overweight. At defensive end, he currently ranks behind Aaron Kampman, Lane, Jeremy Mincey and Aaron Morgan.
- Fourth-round receiver Cecil Shorts was great in camp early, and I bet the undrafted crop of wideouts has at least one NFL-caliber guy. Keep your eyes on Armon Binns, Jamar Newsome and Dontrelle Inman.
- Third-year receiver Jarett Dillard is running well after a couple of injuries cost him the bulk of his first two seasons.
- Watch how much better punter Matt Turk gets now that he will be a beneficiary of the Jaguars’ topflight cover guys, Montell Owens and Kassim Osgood.
- The Jaguars may be content to use Jones-Drew, coming off a knee operation, very minimally in camp and preseason games.
- Veteran Jason Spitz has not been on the field yet, but I think the team would like for third-round pick Will Rackley to win the open left guard spot.
RTC: Texans reportedly eyeing Asomugha
July, 13, 2011
7/13/11
10:18
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Reading the coverage ...
NFL.com's Pat Kirwan investigates the pressing issues facing each AFC South team when the lockout ends.
Houston Texans
An NFL.com panel examines what the Texans need to do to unseat the Colts atop the division.
The Texans, Lions, Packers and Eagles are considering making a run at free-agent cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, according to Vinnie Iyer of the Sporting News.
Indianapolis Colts
Despite NFL lockout, the city of Anderson and Anderson University anticipate the Colts' arrival later this month for the start of training camp.
The Colts are the 16th most valuable sports franchise in the world, according to Forbes magazine.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Cornerback Rod Issac, the team's 2011 fourth-round draft pick, is getting frustrated by the lockout.
Tennessee Titans
Kenny Britt pleaded not guilty to his disorderly persons case in New Jersey.
Kick returner Marc Mariani says he's staying positive about the lockout being lifted soon.
NFL.com's Pat Kirwan investigates the pressing issues facing each AFC South team when the lockout ends.
Houston Texans
An NFL.com panel examines what the Texans need to do to unseat the Colts atop the division.
The Texans, Lions, Packers and Eagles are considering making a run at free-agent cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, according to Vinnie Iyer of the Sporting News.
Indianapolis Colts
Despite NFL lockout, the city of Anderson and Anderson University anticipate the Colts' arrival later this month for the start of training camp.
The Colts are the 16th most valuable sports franchise in the world, according to Forbes magazine.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Cornerback Rod Issac, the team's 2011 fourth-round draft pick, is getting frustrated by the lockout.
Tennessee Titans
Kenny Britt pleaded not guilty to his disorderly persons case in New Jersey.
Kick returner Marc Mariani says he's staying positive about the lockout being lifted soon.
Getty ImagesShaun Phillips, left, and Aaron Rodgers hold the top two spots in the debut of our NFL Twindex.This is our periodic look -- I’m thinking twice a month for now, weekly once we’re in a season -- at what players and others who work for NFL teams are saying via Twitter. Because I love being subjective and we all love lists, it’s a subjective list.
I’m following everyone I can find -- 328 people and growing -- and I hope they’ll follow me back. It’s difficult to read every tweet every day, so if you see a great one, forward it to me. I’m @ESPN_AFCSouth and @PaulKuharsky. The Twindex will be built from the best sampling I am able to do while still also fulfilling the obligations of a full-time job.
Each guy who makes the list each week will get a tweet notifying him of his status. We’re fluid. If a guy is interesting this week, he may find himself in the top five. Be boring next week and he may disappear, depending on what his competition is doing. Former players, coaches, owners, equipment guys and mascots are eligible, too. Bring it.
What gets you here? Tweets beyond the ordinary.
You’re scored down for morning greetings (sorry @MikeSimsWalker), birthday wishes, constant song lyrics (sorry @JimIrsay), weather updates and dinner reviews (unless, maybe, you are @PotRoast96).
You are rewarded for witty observations, clever lines and exchanges, smart life advice, amusing family stories, a great re-tweet or picture and, certainly, high-quality football information or commentary. A good week of tweeting can get you a spot. One outstanding tweet can, too.
As I am a positive guy, this is a positive list. Generally, we want to be a place players want to be. Like in our MVP Watch or the best restaurant in town or in unrestricted free agency after a great season. It’s an evolving concept, and whether you’re a candidate or a reader, I welcome your input.
Titans cornerback Jason McCourty and his twin brother, Patriots Pro Bowl cornerback Devin McCourty, combined Twitter accounts and have made a big push to let fans see them.
When I told him about this during their recent ESPN car wash, Jason wasn’t ashamed to say he wanted @McCourtyTwins to get a spot on the initial Index.
“I think guys are so competitive, anything like that with a list and a top spot, guys will get some enjoyment out of it,” he said. “Somebody may post, ‘Hey, check out so-and-so, he’s No. 1 this week on the Twitter poll.’ I think it’ll probably be a cool idea. I’ll check it out.
“Hopefully that gets us to No. 1.”
Maybe next week, Jason.
Here’s the debut list.
1. SHAUN PHILLIPS
Linebacker | San Diego Chargers 
@ShaunPhillips95 -- Proposed a flag football league for remainder of lockout and said his first pick after himself, would be @DeseanJackson10 and that no one would take Peyton Manning, Tom Brady or Philip Rivers. Also complained when someone handed him a valet ticket as if he was a valet. Shaun, who's insuring the flag football league? I don't like your top pick at all.
2. AARON RODGERS
Quarterback | Green Bay Packers 
@AaronRodgers12 -- Announced his candidacy for "Celebrity Jeopardy." How could they not call him now? Also made a bold prediction: "Somewhere that end of the world predictor is telling himself, '3rd time's the charm'. Be on the lookout for the next set of billboards" Sure enough, dude's come out with an Oct. 21 date.
3. CHAD OCHOCINCO
Wide Receiver | Cincinnati Bengals 
@ochocinco -- (Pre snake-wrangling.) "This just in:The End Of The World has not been canceled just postponed until the #LOCKOUT is over." Bitter over another Steelers win, but complimented Hines Wards for "Dancing with the Stars" title. Also provided picture of the week: "I was trying to give my #LapGiraffe a bath and look where he ran to." I am fascinated by the lap giraffe and am saving up for one.
4. DARIUS BUTLER
Cornerback | New England Patriots 
@DariusButler28 -- With the Rapture due last Saturday, Butler offered to give his account number to anyone who believed it was going to happen so they could transfer their funds to him. Then he bemoaned it when his balance didn't change. I'm sure people just needed more time or, in great anticipation, had their wills drawn up in advance.
5. PHILIP WHEELER
Linebacker | Indianapolis Colts 
@PhilGood50 -- "Mann I've had xm radio for bout 2years, but I don't know who's payin 4 it tho, not me " Hope we aren't messing that up for you, Mr. Wheeler.
6. TRACY PORTER
Cornerback | New Orleans Saints 
@T_Porter22 -- "Why is everyone askin me and lil bro @Mark_Ingram22 who gon wear 22 like we gon tell u? We don't even have a season right now lol #crazy" I don't get it either, Tracy. People are fascinated by uniform numbers. And maybe they figure jerseys are cheaper during the labor impasse? As a flag football observer, Porter also offered some commentary on footwear and women players.
7. AUSTEN LANE
Defensive End | Jacksonville Jaguars 
@A_Train_92 -- "#EPICTWEET I just discovered the holy grail of breakfest! Order a McGridle and get the steak egg [bagel] sauce on it!!! #UrWelcomeAmerica" Thanks but I already ate. Austen was also funny on the missed Rapture prediction, saying he lived it up in anticipation and then had to apologize to everyone.
8. JAY FEELY
Kicker | Arizona Cardinals 
@jayfeely -- Solid Joakim Noah commentary, both funny -- his wife said, "I wish my pony tail looked as good as Noah's" -- and serious: "I've said many things after I miss a kick or in the midst of a game that I regret saying or wouldn't say in any other setting."
9. ROBERT MATHIS
Defensive End | Indianapolis Colts 
@RobertMathis98 -- "damn I just told a family member #No and it felt good.....almost #ADDICTIVE" Also expressed NBA-related dismay regarding one guy being blamed for a loss in a team sport and speed trap-related dismay at the number of police on his route from Georgia to Birmingham.
10. PATRICK WILLIS
Linebacker | San Francisco 49ers 
@PatrickWillis52 -- "I'm going biking in the morning. Its crazy how I can be nervous about that but not to go play in front of thousands smh" Also said something I think we all think more often than we'd like: "Sometimes I don't understand myself."
Need to point me to a tweet? Have ideas for the NFL Twindex? Find me @ESPN_AFCSouth and @PaulKuharsky.
Reading the coverage ...
Houston Texans
Lockout or not, Gary Kubiak is hardly on break, says Richard Justice. Best nugget here: Wade Phillips trimmed his want list in the draft to 15 or 20 and the Texans drafted five from that group.
Vonta Leach was 65th on the list of the NFL’s top 100 players in 2010. Kirk Morrison offers commentary. (Video.)
A look at Phillips and nose tackles from Chris Watkins and Nick Scurfield, with a link to a Phillips dinner talk.
Indianapolis Colts
Peyton Manning’s silence is about cash, says Mike Freeman. This is a bit harsh and far-reaching, but the theme could be part of why the quarterback is laying so low.
The father-son Colts front office of Bill Polian and Chris Polian gives the Colts the same old outlook, says Clark Judge.
How St. Vincent’s Sport Performance is helping the Colts, from 18 to 88.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Tania Ganguli got an exclusive look at a Jaguars’ workout and provides a rundown of how the players are operating.
David Garrard talked quarterback competition with Ganguli at his charity finishing tournament. “If it's not me, then it's just not me. If Blaine [Gabbert] comes in and he is above and beyond just better than me, then best of luck to him. Because the best person is going to give this team a chance to win should be out there.”
Aaron Kampman talks about his knee and the Jaguars’ workouts, says Ganguli.
A weak second round helped make the decision to trade a second-round pick to move up for Gabbert even easier for Gene Smith, writes John Oehser.
An interview with rookie corner Rod Issac from Brandon Clark.
Tennessee Titans
Mike Munchak and his staff are bonding during the lockout, says John Glennon.
Rookie running back Jamie Harper is featured in Sam Farmer’s piece about the status of locked out rookies in need of playbooks.
Kerry Collins is the right guy to start while Jake Locker develops, says David Climer.
Is Eddie George a Pro Football Hall of Famer, asks David Boclair. No, I answer.
Veteran options at middle linebacker, from Andrew Strickert.
Houston Texans
Lockout or not, Gary Kubiak is hardly on break, says Richard Justice. Best nugget here: Wade Phillips trimmed his want list in the draft to 15 or 20 and the Texans drafted five from that group.
Vonta Leach was 65th on the list of the NFL’s top 100 players in 2010. Kirk Morrison offers commentary. (Video.)
A look at Phillips and nose tackles from Chris Watkins and Nick Scurfield, with a link to a Phillips dinner talk.
Indianapolis Colts
Peyton Manning’s silence is about cash, says Mike Freeman. This is a bit harsh and far-reaching, but the theme could be part of why the quarterback is laying so low.
The father-son Colts front office of Bill Polian and Chris Polian gives the Colts the same old outlook, says Clark Judge.
How St. Vincent’s Sport Performance is helping the Colts, from 18 to 88.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Tania Ganguli got an exclusive look at a Jaguars’ workout and provides a rundown of how the players are operating.
David Garrard talked quarterback competition with Ganguli at his charity finishing tournament. “If it's not me, then it's just not me. If Blaine [Gabbert] comes in and he is above and beyond just better than me, then best of luck to him. Because the best person is going to give this team a chance to win should be out there.”
Aaron Kampman talks about his knee and the Jaguars’ workouts, says Ganguli.
A weak second round helped make the decision to trade a second-round pick to move up for Gabbert even easier for Gene Smith, writes John Oehser.
An interview with rookie corner Rod Issac from Brandon Clark.
Tennessee Titans
Mike Munchak and his staff are bonding during the lockout, says John Glennon.
Rookie running back Jamie Harper is featured in Sam Farmer’s piece about the status of locked out rookies in need of playbooks.
Kerry Collins is the right guy to start while Jake Locker develops, says David Climer.
Is Eddie George a Pro Football Hall of Famer, asks David Boclair. No, I answer.
Veteran options at middle linebacker, from Andrew Strickert.
RTC: Issac came from rough neighborhood
May, 11, 2011
5/11/11
9:38
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Reading the coverage …
Houston Texans
Mario Williams’ move to linebacker could work, says Bucky Brooks.
Texans coaches and officials were joined by some NFL alumni at the team’s golf tournament.
A look at free-agent possibilities at safety with Mike Kerns.
Indianapolis Colts
Some Colts are working out at IU Sports Performance. Includes an update from Jamie Silva. (Hat tip to Nate Dunlevy.)
A former Colts cheerleader is suing the team over how she was fired, says Carrie Ritchie.
An interview with George Atallah of the NFLPA, from Nate Dunlevy.
The first piece of The Manning Project from Shane Clemons.
Jacksonville Jaguars
A look at the road Rod Issac traveled to the NFL, from Adam Sparks.
Blaine Gabbert has already spent some time in the playbook.
Analysts pick which drafted quarterback will have the biggest career impact, and Vic Carucci goes with Gabbert.
Offensive line coach Andy Heck sees Will Rackley as a ready-made guy, says John Oehser.
Will Jarett Dillard and Tiquan Underwood be on the roster bubble? Alfie Crow wonders.
Tennessee Titans
Once anti-Twitter, Jeff Fisher now has an account to chronicle his climb of Kilimanjaro, says Jim Wyatt.
Kevin Mawae spoke to civic and business leaders in Nashville and Jerome Boettcher.
Three guys the Titans could sign to take over for Chris Hope, from Andrew Strickert.
Houston Texans
Mario Williams’ move to linebacker could work, says Bucky Brooks.
Texans coaches and officials were joined by some NFL alumni at the team’s golf tournament.
A look at free-agent possibilities at safety with Mike Kerns.
Indianapolis Colts
Some Colts are working out at IU Sports Performance. Includes an update from Jamie Silva. (Hat tip to Nate Dunlevy.)
A former Colts cheerleader is suing the team over how she was fired, says Carrie Ritchie.
An interview with George Atallah of the NFLPA, from Nate Dunlevy.
The first piece of The Manning Project from Shane Clemons.
Jacksonville Jaguars
A look at the road Rod Issac traveled to the NFL, from Adam Sparks.
Blaine Gabbert has already spent some time in the playbook.
Analysts pick which drafted quarterback will have the biggest career impact, and Vic Carucci goes with Gabbert.
Offensive line coach Andy Heck sees Will Rackley as a ready-made guy, says John Oehser.
Will Jarett Dillard and Tiquan Underwood be on the roster bubble? Alfie Crow wonders.
Tennessee Titans
Once anti-Twitter, Jeff Fisher now has an account to chronicle his climb of Kilimanjaro, says Jim Wyatt.
Kevin Mawae spoke to civic and business leaders in Nashville and Jerome Boettcher.
Three guys the Titans could sign to take over for Chris Hope, from Andrew Strickert.
What wasn’t addressed in the draft and could be a free agency focus for the Jaguars:
Linebacker: The team didn’t think it was a great draft for linebackers, but clearly has plans to address the position in free agency. The Jaguars could be looking to add two as it doesn’t appear Kirk Morrison or Justin Durant are in their plans going forward. The line gets a lot of blame for the lack of rush and the secondary takes the fall for the pass coverage, but an upgrade at linebacker can have an affect on both.
Defensive end: It’s not easy to find an edge rusher, but a lot of us figured they’d land one in a draft that was loaded with them. They went other directions, and now can still use someone who will add pass pressure and be a final piece of the defensive line rebuild.
Defensive back: They added a free safety in Chris Prosinski and a nickel corner type in Rod Issac. Odds are that’s not the end of the moves in the defensive backfield. Safety is more pressing to me still. Relying on Courtney Greene and Prosinski would be asking a lot, and a veteran in the mix could be a boost. Overall the team could still add two to four players on defense.
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ABOUT THIS BLOG
Paul Kuharsky
Kuharsky joined ESPN.com in 2008 after 12 years covering the Oilers/Titans and the NFL for The (Nashville) Tennessean. The New Jersey native and Columbia graduate lives in Nashville with his wife and son.
