AFC West: Brandon Marshall
ESPN’s Adam Schefter has reported the Denver Broncos have already received calls from teams about quarterback Tim Tebow.
Schefter said it is a sign the Broncos should be able to move him while ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reported that Tebow will likely be released if the Broncos can’t find a trade partner.
Jacksonville, Miami and New England are among the teams interested in Tebow. He will likely be brought in as a backup anywhere he goes. Denver could get a mid-round pick in return, but don’t think the Broncos will sweat the compensation much. I think they just want to move on.
The Dolphins have an extra-round round pick it acquired from Chicago for Brandon Marshall, so it could give Denver a solid offer. Ironically, the Broncos drafted Tebow with their No. 25 pick after they traded Marshall to Miami two years ago. Tebow succeeded Marshall as No. 15 in Denver.
Schefter made a point that I agree with. He said several owners in the league may be interested in acquiring Tebow because of ticket sales and the popularity it could create. Tebow sells and the Broncos are hoping they find a buyer as they hand their offense to Peyton Manning.
Schefter said it is a sign the Broncos should be able to move him while ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reported that Tebow will likely be released if the Broncos can’t find a trade partner.
Jacksonville, Miami and New England are among the teams interested in Tebow. He will likely be brought in as a backup anywhere he goes. Denver could get a mid-round pick in return, but don’t think the Broncos will sweat the compensation much. I think they just want to move on.
The Dolphins have an extra-round round pick it acquired from Chicago for Brandon Marshall, so it could give Denver a solid offer. Ironically, the Broncos drafted Tebow with their No. 25 pick after they traded Marshall to Miami two years ago. Tebow succeeded Marshall as No. 15 in Denver.
Schefter made a point that I agree with. He said several owners in the league may be interested in acquiring Tebow because of ticket sales and the popularity it could create. Tebow sells and the Broncos are hoping they find a buyer as they hand their offense to Peyton Manning.
Bucs pushing hard for Vincent Jackson
March, 13, 2012
Mar 13
5:04
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
If the San Diego Chargers want Vincent Jackson back -- and they do very much -- they better hope the Tampa Bay Buccaneers don’t offer him too much.
JacksonESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting Jackson and the Buccaneers are negotiating a deal. The Buccaneers more have than $40 million in salary-cap room. The Chargers have less than $20 million. If the Chargers’ offer is competitive with Tampa Bay’s, I think Jackson will opt to stay in San Diego. But the Buccaneers can make it very difficult for the Chargers to keep Jackson. The Chargers opted against giving Jackson the franchise tag for the second straight year. He would have been paid more than $13 million this season had he received the tag.
If Jackson goes, the Chargers may turn to Reggie Wayne or Brandon Lloyd.
There has been other movement at receiver by teams that wanted Jackson.
Chicago traded Miami for Brandon Marshall and Colts’ free-agent receiver Pierre Garcon announced he will sign with the Washington Redskins. Another team expected to make a push for Jackson, the Buffalo Bills, are pursuing New Orleans receiver Robert Meachem.

If Jackson goes, the Chargers may turn to Reggie Wayne or Brandon Lloyd.
There has been other movement at receiver by teams that wanted Jackson.
Chicago traded Miami for Brandon Marshall and Colts’ free-agent receiver Pierre Garcon announced he will sign with the Washington Redskins. Another team expected to make a push for Jackson, the Buffalo Bills, are pursuing New Orleans receiver Robert Meachem.
A Denver reunion in Chicago has some current AFC West relevance.
The Bears just acquired Brandon Marshall, and his big contract, from Miami for two third-round picks. The Bears were expected to be a big player for San Diego receiver Vincent Jackson. That pursuit likely won’t happen now.
So, the Chargers will likely have one less competitor for Jackson.
Also, I wonder if Peyton Manning will be bothered to see the Dolphins traded their top receiver. The Broncos are battling the Dolphins to sign Manning.
Two years ago, Denver received two second-round picks from Miami for Marshall, which helped the Broncos move up to take Tim Tebow at No. 25. In Chicago, Marshall reunites with former Denver quarterback Jay Cutler and Denver offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates.
In other AFC West news:
The agent for Kevin Boss tweeted that he will be cut Wednesday instead of Tuesday.
NFL.com reports that Nick Hardwick’s three-year deal in San Diego is worth $13.5 million with $6.5 million guaranteed. Pretty nice deal for the Chargers. Hardwick is a fine player.
Buffalo is visiting with Houston pass-rusher Mario Williams. San Diego has been interested.
The Bears just acquired Brandon Marshall, and his big contract, from Miami for two third-round picks. The Bears were expected to be a big player for San Diego receiver Vincent Jackson. That pursuit likely won’t happen now.
So, the Chargers will likely have one less competitor for Jackson.
Also, I wonder if Peyton Manning will be bothered to see the Dolphins traded their top receiver. The Broncos are battling the Dolphins to sign Manning.
Two years ago, Denver received two second-round picks from Miami for Marshall, which helped the Broncos move up to take Tim Tebow at No. 25. In Chicago, Marshall reunites with former Denver quarterback Jay Cutler and Denver offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates.
In other AFC West news:
The agent for Kevin Boss tweeted that he will be cut Wednesday instead of Tuesday.
NFL.com reports that Nick Hardwick’s three-year deal in San Diego is worth $13.5 million with $6.5 million guaranteed. Pretty nice deal for the Chargers. Hardwick is a fine player.
Buffalo is visiting with Houston pass-rusher Mario Williams. San Diego has been interested.
Rivers discusses Pro Bowl-effort stir
February, 1, 2012
Feb 1
4:20
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
Earlier Wednesday, I had a chance to catch up with San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers to discuss him being a finalist for the NFL Man of the Year award.
RiversWe also had a chance to talk about a current league issue that Rivers was involved in Sunday. Tuesday, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers caused a stir when he said he was embarrassed for some of his NFC teammates because of the lack of effort they displayed in a 59-41 AFC win Sunday in the Pro Bowl.
Rodgers wasn’t the only person to question some of the players' efforts Sunday. The crowd in Honolulu booed some of the early-game play.
Rivers was one of the quarterbacks for the victorious AFC team. He said he understands some of the complaints and he thinks the competitive nature of the game has appeared to decline some over the past 10 years.
Still, Rivers said the Pro Bowl dispute presents a “fine line” and he thinks the current format is attractive to some players.
“In general, maybe the whole week should be up for discussion,” said Rivers, who would like to see the skill challenges be part of the weekly festivities again. “But I know there are guys in the game whose contracts may be up and they don’t want to get hurt and things like that. Still, we have to think of the fans and try to stay true to the game and not make a joke or a mockery out of the game.”
Rivers did say he thought the AFC “cranked it up in the second half” and he was impressed by the efforts of several of his teammates, including San Diego teammate Vincent Jackson and Miami receiver Brandon Marshall (who was named the game’s MVP) for giving strong efforts.
Still, Rivers also said he’s not sure the Pro Bowl will ever see the intensity of a regular-season NFL game.
“Again, it’s the fine line,” Rivers said. “You want to see effort, but if those big ole boys like Jared Allen or Justin Smith kept coming hard at me, I might be like 'easy, slow down, slow down' (laughing). … In the end, I think it can be adjusted some, but it’s a great week for everyone involved and it’s a positive experience for the fans over in Hawaii.”

Rodgers wasn’t the only person to question some of the players' efforts Sunday. The crowd in Honolulu booed some of the early-game play.
Rivers was one of the quarterbacks for the victorious AFC team. He said he understands some of the complaints and he thinks the competitive nature of the game has appeared to decline some over the past 10 years.
Still, Rivers said the Pro Bowl dispute presents a “fine line” and he thinks the current format is attractive to some players.
“In general, maybe the whole week should be up for discussion,” said Rivers, who would like to see the skill challenges be part of the weekly festivities again. “But I know there are guys in the game whose contracts may be up and they don’t want to get hurt and things like that. Still, we have to think of the fans and try to stay true to the game and not make a joke or a mockery out of the game.”
Rivers did say he thought the AFC “cranked it up in the second half” and he was impressed by the efforts of several of his teammates, including San Diego teammate Vincent Jackson and Miami receiver Brandon Marshall (who was named the game’s MVP) for giving strong efforts.
Still, Rivers also said he’s not sure the Pro Bowl will ever see the intensity of a regular-season NFL game.
“Again, it’s the fine line,” Rivers said. “You want to see effort, but if those big ole boys like Jared Allen or Justin Smith kept coming hard at me, I might be like 'easy, slow down, slow down' (laughing). … In the end, I think it can be adjusted some, but it’s a great week for everyone involved and it’s a positive experience for the fans over in Hawaii.”
Kyle Orton: Five things to watch
December, 16, 2011
12/16/11
3:25
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
As expected, Kansas City interim coach Romeo Crennel told reporters Kyle Orton will start Sunday against Green Bay.
Let’s look at some keys for Orton, who was claimed off waivers from Denver last month, as he makes his first start as a Chief.
Rust/injury: This will be Orton’s first start since Week 5. He has thrown one pass since and he hurt his index finger on his throwing hand when he made his debut as a Chief at Chicago two weeks ago. Orton wouldn’t be playing Sunday if he were still injured, but it will be interesting to see if he takes a while to get going after being inactive.
Packers will defend aggressively: Orton faced the Packers in Week 4. He threw three touchdown passes in a blowout Denver loss. But he was also intercepted three times. Expect Green Bay to attack him again.
Chemistry with Dwayne Bowe: Orton has connected well with top receivers such as Brandon Marshall and Brandon Lloyd. Let’s see how he connects with Bowe. Bowe can be a game-changing receiver and I expect the veteran Orton to rely on him, even though their partnership may be temporary.
Play-action ability: Like injured Kansas City starter Matt Cassel, Orton has been among the league’s better passers in play-action situations. Because both Cassel and Orton were comfortable with play-action passing, the offense should suit Orton nicely.
How long will his leash be? If Orton doesn’t play well in the next couple of weeks, I could see fifth-round pick Ricky Stanzi getting a chance to play before the season is over. But if Orton is serviceable, he will get the nod because he gives the Chiefs the best chance to win.
Let’s look at some keys for Orton, who was claimed off waivers from Denver last month, as he makes his first start as a Chief.
Rust/injury: This will be Orton’s first start since Week 5. He has thrown one pass since and he hurt his index finger on his throwing hand when he made his debut as a Chief at Chicago two weeks ago. Orton wouldn’t be playing Sunday if he were still injured, but it will be interesting to see if he takes a while to get going after being inactive.
Packers will defend aggressively: Orton faced the Packers in Week 4. He threw three touchdown passes in a blowout Denver loss. But he was also intercepted three times. Expect Green Bay to attack him again.
Chemistry with Dwayne Bowe: Orton has connected well with top receivers such as Brandon Marshall and Brandon Lloyd. Let’s see how he connects with Bowe. Bowe can be a game-changing receiver and I expect the veteran Orton to rely on him, even though their partnership may be temporary.
Play-action ability: Like injured Kansas City starter Matt Cassel, Orton has been among the league’s better passers in play-action situations. Because both Cassel and Orton were comfortable with play-action passing, the offense should suit Orton nicely.
How long will his leash be? If Orton doesn’t play well in the next couple of weeks, I could see fifth-round pick Ricky Stanzi getting a chance to play before the season is over. But if Orton is serviceable, he will get the nod because he gives the Chiefs the best chance to win.
» NFC Final Word: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 8:
This is the Chiefs’ chance: The Chiefs have a chance to pad their record. They have fought their way to 3-3 after starting 0-3, and if they beat the Chargers on Monday night, there will be a three-way tie for first place in the AFC West between the Chiefs, Chargers and Raiders, who are on a bye this week, at 4-3. The San Diego game is the start of a three-game home stretch for the Chiefs. After the Chargers, the Chiefs host the Dolphins and Broncos. It is crucial for the Chiefs to win as many games as possible in this stretch. Their schedule gets incredibly tough after that. It begins a five-game stretch (Games 10-15) in which Kansas City plays five 2010 playoffs teams, including the four teams that advanced to the conference championship round.
Air Tebow: According to ESPN Stats & Information, Denver quarterback Tim Tebow is averaging 13.3 air yards per pass attempt this season and 12.3 air yards per attempt for his career. He has played four-and-a-half career games. Since the start of 2010, no quarterback with at least 100 attempts has a higher average rate than Tebow.
Another Monday night monsoon? This is the second straight season these two teams have played on Monday night at Arrowhead. Last season, the Chiefs beat the Chargers in Week 1, which opened the renovated Arrowhead Stadium. Much of the game was played in a monsoon. The Chargers’ offense was completely flustered by the weather. Will it happen again? The long-term Kansas City forecast calls for clear weather Monday.
The power of Tolbert: The Chargers’ favorite red zone target (especially with tight end Antonio Gates out three games due to a foot injury) has been running back Mike Tolbert. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Tolbert is tied with former Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who signed with New Orleans this summer, for running backs with 10 targeted passes in the red zone. Tolbert has seven catches for 35 yards and two scores in the red zone. Tolbert is active in the red zone on the ground as well. He is tied for the league lead with 15 rushes on goal-to-go carries. He has three touchdowns in those situations.
The return of Scheffler: Many Denver fans rue the trades of Jay Cutler, Peyton Hillis and Brandon Marshall, all made by former coach Josh McDaniels. Denver fans will see another offensive player discarded by McDaniels on Sunday, when tight end Tony Scheffler and Detroit come to town. A favorite of McDaniels’ predecessor, Mike Shanahan, who drafted Scheffler in the second round in 2006, Scheffler was caught in McDaniels’ doghouse and was traded to his home state of Michigan last year. The Lions love Scheffler, and he has become a key part of a potent offense.
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 8:
This is the Chiefs’ chance: The Chiefs have a chance to pad their record. They have fought their way to 3-3 after starting 0-3, and if they beat the Chargers on Monday night, there will be a three-way tie for first place in the AFC West between the Chiefs, Chargers and Raiders, who are on a bye this week, at 4-3. The San Diego game is the start of a three-game home stretch for the Chiefs. After the Chargers, the Chiefs host the Dolphins and Broncos. It is crucial for the Chiefs to win as many games as possible in this stretch. Their schedule gets incredibly tough after that. It begins a five-game stretch (Games 10-15) in which Kansas City plays five 2010 playoffs teams, including the four teams that advanced to the conference championship round.
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Marc Serota/Getty ImagesDenver quarterback Tim Tebow is averaging 13.3 yards per pass attempt this season.
Marc Serota/Getty ImagesDenver quarterback Tim Tebow is averaging 13.3 yards per pass attempt this season.Another Monday night monsoon? This is the second straight season these two teams have played on Monday night at Arrowhead. Last season, the Chiefs beat the Chargers in Week 1, which opened the renovated Arrowhead Stadium. Much of the game was played in a monsoon. The Chargers’ offense was completely flustered by the weather. Will it happen again? The long-term Kansas City forecast calls for clear weather Monday.
The power of Tolbert: The Chargers’ favorite red zone target (especially with tight end Antonio Gates out three games due to a foot injury) has been running back Mike Tolbert. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Tolbert is tied with former Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who signed with New Orleans this summer, for running backs with 10 targeted passes in the red zone. Tolbert has seven catches for 35 yards and two scores in the red zone. Tolbert is active in the red zone on the ground as well. He is tied for the league lead with 15 rushes on goal-to-go carries. He has three touchdowns in those situations.
The return of Scheffler: Many Denver fans rue the trades of Jay Cutler, Peyton Hillis and Brandon Marshall, all made by former coach Josh McDaniels. Denver fans will see another offensive player discarded by McDaniels on Sunday, when tight end Tony Scheffler and Detroit come to town. A favorite of McDaniels’ predecessor, Mike Shanahan, who drafted Scheffler in the second round in 2006, Scheffler was caught in McDaniels’ doghouse and was traded to his home state of Michigan last year. The Lions love Scheffler, and he has become a key part of a potent offense.
Broncos preparing for Brandon Marshall
October, 20, 2011
10/20/11
6:40
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
The men in charge of keeping Brandon Marshall from having a big game Sunday are not overly thrilled about facing the 6-foot-5, 230-pound Miami receiver.
That’s because they used to face him every day in practice.
“The frustrating part about it is that I think I taught him a little bit,” Denver cornerback Champ Bailey told reporters Thursday. “Obviously, he’s playing better than he did when he was here. He’s a great player. He’s grown up a lot; he’s matured a lot. You can tell he’s more defined in his routes. He’s a better player.”
Denver traded Marshall, who practiced fully Thursday after not practicing Wednesday with a quad injury, for two second-round picks in 2010. This is the first meeting between the teams since the trade. Marshall wanted to be traded because Denver wasn’t prepared to give him a long-term deal after Marshall had numerous off-field issues.
Marshall, a fourth-round pick in 2006, had at least 101 catches each season in Denver from 2007-09. He has 28 catches this season and is struggling in the red zone. He has been targeted an NFL high 13 times in the red zone this season, according to ESPN Stats & Information, but has not caught a single pass there.
Still, the Broncos are wary of facing their final teammate.
“I know what he brings to the game,” Denver safety Brian Dawkins said told reporters Thursday. “Very physical dude, he’s not going to back down from a fight, he’s going to go up and challenge balls when they’re in the air, he’s going to push you off, he’s going to be a physical guy -- that’s who he is. That’s what we expect from him. I don’t expect anything different from him. Just because it’s us I don’t expect to see anything different than what I’ve already seen on film and that’s a very aggressive receiver.”
That’s because they used to face him every day in practice.
“The frustrating part about it is that I think I taught him a little bit,” Denver cornerback Champ Bailey told reporters Thursday. “Obviously, he’s playing better than he did when he was here. He’s a great player. He’s grown up a lot; he’s matured a lot. You can tell he’s more defined in his routes. He’s a better player.”
Denver traded Marshall, who practiced fully Thursday after not practicing Wednesday with a quad injury, for two second-round picks in 2010. This is the first meeting between the teams since the trade. Marshall wanted to be traded because Denver wasn’t prepared to give him a long-term deal after Marshall had numerous off-field issues.
Marshall, a fourth-round pick in 2006, had at least 101 catches each season in Denver from 2007-09. He has 28 catches this season and is struggling in the red zone. He has been targeted an NFL high 13 times in the red zone this season, according to ESPN Stats & Information, but has not caught a single pass there.
Still, the Broncos are wary of facing their final teammate.
“I know what he brings to the game,” Denver safety Brian Dawkins said told reporters Thursday. “Very physical dude, he’s not going to back down from a fight, he’s going to go up and challenge balls when they’re in the air, he’s going to push you off, he’s going to be a physical guy -- that’s who he is. That’s what we expect from him. I don’t expect anything different from him. Just because it’s us I don’t expect to see anything different than what I’ve already seen on film and that’s a very aggressive receiver.”
Weekend mail call:
Johnny from San Jose wants to know how big I think the Raiders’ win over the Jets was.
Bill Williamson: It’s about as big as a Week 3 win can be, Johnny. It was large. The Raiders showed they can come back in a game they trailed by double digits. They showed heart after a devastating Week 2 loss in Buffalo. They showed they can beat a quality AFC opponent and they showed they can dominate offensively. It was truly impressive. It goes down as a huge early-season win.
Adam from Caldwell, Idaho wants to know if Eric Decker can become a Brandon Marshall-type receiver for Denver.
BW: I think Decker will become a very reliable player for Denver. I don’t think he compares to Marshall because of their body type. Still, I think Decker is a playmaker, who has nice hands. The 2010 third-round pick is polished for a young player. I do think he has a bright future as a Bronco. He could go down as the best draft pick of the short Josh McDaniels’ era.
Kurt Cavigga from Seattle wants to know what the Chiefs plan to do with tackle Jared Gaither.
BW: Gaither played quite a bit at San Diego. I think he is still getting into shape, but I expected to see him play more and more as the season regresses as long as his back (he missed all of last season) holds up. He is a talented player and he can help this offensive line. Expect him to get plenty of opportunities to do it.
Johnny from San Jose wants to know how big I think the Raiders’ win over the Jets was.
Bill Williamson: It’s about as big as a Week 3 win can be, Johnny. It was large. The Raiders showed they can come back in a game they trailed by double digits. They showed heart after a devastating Week 2 loss in Buffalo. They showed they can beat a quality AFC opponent and they showed they can dominate offensively. It was truly impressive. It goes down as a huge early-season win.
Adam from Caldwell, Idaho wants to know if Eric Decker can become a Brandon Marshall-type receiver for Denver.
BW: I think Decker will become a very reliable player for Denver. I don’t think he compares to Marshall because of their body type. Still, I think Decker is a playmaker, who has nice hands. The 2010 third-round pick is polished for a young player. I do think he has a bright future as a Bronco. He could go down as the best draft pick of the short Josh McDaniels’ era.
Kurt Cavigga from Seattle wants to know what the Chiefs plan to do with tackle Jared Gaither.
BW: Gaither played quite a bit at San Diego. I think he is still getting into shape, but I expected to see him play more and more as the season regresses as long as his back (he missed all of last season) holds up. He is a talented player and he can help this offensive line. Expect him to get plenty of opportunities to do it.
» NFC Final Word: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 4:
Ochocinco could have been a Raider: Chad Ochocinco is headed to Oakland with many people wondering if he will ever help the New England Patriots. He has barely contributed to a high-powered offense and he had a crucial drop in the Patriots’ loss at Buffalo last week. Ochocinco could have been a Raider. The Raiders asked permission to talk to Ochocinco in an attempt to acquire him from Cincinnati shortly before he was traded to the Patriots this summer. Oakland coach Hue Jackson coached Ochocinco in Cincinnati and the two remain close. Oakland considered Ochocinco as a veteran presence on a young receiving crew. It was probably a good thing Ochocinco went elsewhere. The Raiders are young at receiver, but they have a load of talent. With Ochocinco’s career likely on the downslide, his presence could have gotten in the way of the development of the group.
Never give up, Chiefs: The game in Kansas City on Sunday between the Minnesota Vikings and the Chiefs is a game between two 0-3 teams. It may not create a lot of interest, but it may be worth tuning into after halftime. Craziness could happen. The Chief showed their only fight of the young season in the second half at San Diego last week. After not converting a first down in the first half (it was the first time that has happened in the NFL since the 2009 season according to ESPN Stats & Information), the Chiefs scored 17 second-half points in a 20-17 loss. The Chiefs scored a total of 10 points in the first 10 quarters of the season. To further give the Chiefs confidence, the Vikings have been horrid in the second half this season. The Vikings have blown double-digit halftime leads in all three games.
It’s him again, San Diego: The San Diego Chargers will have to deal with Brandon Marshall again. This time, he’ll play the Chargers as a Dolphin. He tore up San Diego as a Denver Bronco before the receiver was traded to the Dolphins last year. In 2008, he torched former San Diego cornerback Antonio Cromartie for 18 catches and 166 yards. In total, Marshall, who has 17 catches this season, has 45 catches in six starts against San Diego.
Broncos have never been a big cheese in Wisconsin: The Denver Broncos head to the Dairy State to play the world champion Green Bay Packers with the hopes of returning in a good mood. The Broncos are 0-4-1 against the Packers in Wisconsin, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Denver has also never won at Miami or Baltimore. Besides Aaron Rodgers and company, the Broncos have history going against them Sunday.
Expect an offensive explosion in Oakland: Last team with the ball wins in Oakland on Sunday? Could be. The Patriots lead the NFL with 1,621 yards in three games. It is the most yards any team has compiled through three games, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Yet, the Patriots’ defense is giving up yards at almost as large of a pace. New England has allowed an NFL-high 1,406 yards this season. It’s the fifth most yards allowed by a team at this point of the season since the 1970 merger. The Raiders have scored 69 points in the past two games. This one could be fun.
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 4:
Ochocinco could have been a Raider: Chad Ochocinco is headed to Oakland with many people wondering if he will ever help the New England Patriots. He has barely contributed to a high-powered offense and he had a crucial drop in the Patriots’ loss at Buffalo last week. Ochocinco could have been a Raider. The Raiders asked permission to talk to Ochocinco in an attempt to acquire him from Cincinnati shortly before he was traded to the Patriots this summer. Oakland coach Hue Jackson coached Ochocinco in Cincinnati and the two remain close. Oakland considered Ochocinco as a veteran presence on a young receiving crew. It was probably a good thing Ochocinco went elsewhere. The Raiders are young at receiver, but they have a load of talent. With Ochocinco’s career likely on the downslide, his presence could have gotten in the way of the development of the group.
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Kirby Lee/US PRESSWIREThe athleticism of Denarius Moore is a big reason why hopes will be high for Oakland's offense next season.
Kirby Lee/US PRESSWIREThe athleticism of Denarius Moore is a big reason why hopes will be high for Oakland's offense next season.It’s him again, San Diego: The San Diego Chargers will have to deal with Brandon Marshall again. This time, he’ll play the Chargers as a Dolphin. He tore up San Diego as a Denver Bronco before the receiver was traded to the Dolphins last year. In 2008, he torched former San Diego cornerback Antonio Cromartie for 18 catches and 166 yards. In total, Marshall, who has 17 catches this season, has 45 catches in six starts against San Diego.
Broncos have never been a big cheese in Wisconsin: The Denver Broncos head to the Dairy State to play the world champion Green Bay Packers with the hopes of returning in a good mood. The Broncos are 0-4-1 against the Packers in Wisconsin, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Denver has also never won at Miami or Baltimore. Besides Aaron Rodgers and company, the Broncos have history going against them Sunday.
Expect an offensive explosion in Oakland: Last team with the ball wins in Oakland on Sunday? Could be. The Patriots lead the NFL with 1,621 yards in three games. It is the most yards any team has compiled through three games, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Yet, the Patriots’ defense is giving up yards at almost as large of a pace. New England has allowed an NFL-high 1,406 yards this season. It’s the fifth most yards allowed by a team at this point of the season since the 1970 merger. The Raiders have scored 69 points in the past two games. This one could be fun.
It seems the name the Denver Broncos and quarterback Kyle Orton must keep an eye on in the coming hours (and perhaps in a day or so) is Philadelphia backup Kevin Kolb.
It seems Kolb and Orton are connected. That might benefit the Broncos in their attempt to deal Orton.
The Cardinals are interested in both Kolb and Orton and it is likely Arizona, which needs to add a veteran quarterback, will trade for one of them. Tuesday, the Arizona Republic reported that the Cardinals don’t think there is a major difference between Kolb and Orton, but they could lean toward Orton because he will be cheaper than Kolb.
Denver is also reportedly talking to Miami about Orton in a deal that would reunite him with receiver Brandon Marshall.
The Broncos reportedly want a third-round pick for Orton. The Kolb factor and the fact that the Dolphins are also interested could enable the Broncos to get what they want in return for Orton.
It’s clear Denver wants to move on to the Tim Tebow era and it’s clear Orton wants to remain a starter, so expect Denver to work to get a deal done. I wouldn’t be shocked if we hear more on this front later Wednesday. Denver starts practicing Thursday.
UPDATE: The Orlando Sentinel is reporting Miami is talking to Orton about contract terms. He is a free agent after the season. This is all part of trade talks and it is a sure sign that teams are serious about Orton.
While the news has been cranking up in the past hour or so, the first day of NFL movement has been slower than expected.
None of the AFC West teams have even sent out their list of signed undrafted free agents. I spoke to several agents Monday and they expected Tuesday to be overrun with agreements. Teams can agree to terms with free agents from other teams, but they can’t sign them until Friday. Teams can make trades and agree to terms with their own free agents as well as adding undrafted free agents.
Yet, teams have so far spent of Tuesday planning. Many teams are cutting players as they prepare for free agency. Both Baltimore and Dallas have cut several veterans and there’s speculation they are both trying to make room to make a run at Oakland free-agent cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, who’ll be the free agent prize. Several agents I spoke to Tuesday said they were surprised by the lack of agreements. But they said they sensed teams were trying to adjust to the new $120 million salary cap and that more deals will start happening, in earnest, Wednesday and Thursday.
There is also a sense of caution, several agents said. They feel teams don’t want to get spurned by players who they make agreements with now. So, teams all may be waiting to finalize agreements closer to Friday to avoid being left at the altar.
The quarterback domino is worth watching. It started when it was reported Seattle’s Matt Hasselbeck will not return to the Seahawks. ESPN’s John Clayton reports Tennessee may be the frontrunner to land Hasselbeck. That could affect Denver’s attempt to trade Kyle Orton. Clayton reports Orton could be reunited with Brandon Marshall in Miami.
Yet, Clayton also said if the Broncos don’t receive a third-round pick for Orton, he could be kept in Denver and the Broncos could wait to see if a quarterback gets hurt later in training camp before trying to trade him again. I think that would not be smart. If the Broncos are comfortable with handing the keys to Tim Tebow now, they should just do it and see what happens. Keeping Orton around and having him take valuable repetitions from Tebow would be a waste.
Denver has to make a decision now. The Arizona Republic thinks the Cardinals could decide to pursue Orton over the Eagles’ Kevin Kolb. The paper reasons that the Cardinals think that Orton is not far off Kolb in terms of talent, and Orton could be enticing because he’d be cheaper. The quarterback market could start to move soon.
Meanwhile, I hear Seattle is working to bring back defensive tackle Brandon Mebane. Denver has been interested in him. Still, Denver could go after Green Bay’s Cullen Jenkins or San Francisco’s Aubrayo Franklin.
There was some talk Baltimore offensive lineman Marshal Yanda could end up in the AFC West. He is heading back to the Ravens, though.
By the way, Seattle is picking up quarterback Tarvaris Jackson and Matt Leinart. Boy, that trade with San Diego for Charlie Whitehurst is looking even worse than it did last season. The Chargers moved up 20 spots in the second round last year and received a third-rounder for Whitehurst in 2011. The Seahawks then thought Whitehurst was the quarterback of the future. Clearly, that idea has changed.
None of the AFC West teams have even sent out their list of signed undrafted free agents. I spoke to several agents Monday and they expected Tuesday to be overrun with agreements. Teams can agree to terms with free agents from other teams, but they can’t sign them until Friday. Teams can make trades and agree to terms with their own free agents as well as adding undrafted free agents.
Yet, teams have so far spent of Tuesday planning. Many teams are cutting players as they prepare for free agency. Both Baltimore and Dallas have cut several veterans and there’s speculation they are both trying to make room to make a run at Oakland free-agent cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, who’ll be the free agent prize. Several agents I spoke to Tuesday said they were surprised by the lack of agreements. But they said they sensed teams were trying to adjust to the new $120 million salary cap and that more deals will start happening, in earnest, Wednesday and Thursday.
There is also a sense of caution, several agents said. They feel teams don’t want to get spurned by players who they make agreements with now. So, teams all may be waiting to finalize agreements closer to Friday to avoid being left at the altar.
The quarterback domino is worth watching. It started when it was reported Seattle’s Matt Hasselbeck will not return to the Seahawks. ESPN’s John Clayton reports Tennessee may be the frontrunner to land Hasselbeck. That could affect Denver’s attempt to trade Kyle Orton. Clayton reports Orton could be reunited with Brandon Marshall in Miami.
Yet, Clayton also said if the Broncos don’t receive a third-round pick for Orton, he could be kept in Denver and the Broncos could wait to see if a quarterback gets hurt later in training camp before trying to trade him again. I think that would not be smart. If the Broncos are comfortable with handing the keys to Tim Tebow now, they should just do it and see what happens. Keeping Orton around and having him take valuable repetitions from Tebow would be a waste.
Denver has to make a decision now. The Arizona Republic thinks the Cardinals could decide to pursue Orton over the Eagles’ Kevin Kolb. The paper reasons that the Cardinals think that Orton is not far off Kolb in terms of talent, and Orton could be enticing because he’d be cheaper. The quarterback market could start to move soon.
Meanwhile, I hear Seattle is working to bring back defensive tackle Brandon Mebane. Denver has been interested in him. Still, Denver could go after Green Bay’s Cullen Jenkins or San Francisco’s Aubrayo Franklin.
There was some talk Baltimore offensive lineman Marshal Yanda could end up in the AFC West. He is heading back to the Ravens, though.
By the way, Seattle is picking up quarterback Tarvaris Jackson and Matt Leinart. Boy, that trade with San Diego for Charlie Whitehurst is looking even worse than it did last season. The Chargers moved up 20 spots in the second round last year and received a third-rounder for Whitehurst in 2011. The Seahawks then thought Whitehurst was the quarterback of the future. Clearly, that idea has changed.
AP Photo/Keith SrakocicThe Kansas City Chiefs are hoping first-round pick Jon Baldwin can stretch defenses next season.The April draft didn't just give Matt Cassel another offensive weapon. He also got himself a house guest.
In a locked-out offseason full of oddities, yet another strange dynamic developed shortly after the draft. Cassel welcomed a perfect stranger into his home -- a stranger who is 6-foot-4, can jump like a basketball star, and who gives the Chiefs’ offense a much-needed vertical threat.
Welcome to the Cassel home, Jon Baldwin. Don’t worry about wiping your feet at the door. Just make yourself comfortable.
“It was great getting to know Matt,” Baldwin said this week. “I stayed at his house. I ate dinner with him and his family. We’re really building a relationship together. We’ve talked a lot of X's and O's. It’s important. I think [the lockout] is going to crack soon and we have to be ready. We all have to stay in great shape and hit the job at 100 mph when they tell us. When the lockout is over, we have to be in Kansas City the next day, so this work together is important.”
Cassel, who has been lauded by teammates for his leadership during the lockout, contacted Baldwin shortly after the Chiefs took the big Pittsburgh receiver with the No. 26 overall pick and arranged for him to join him in Kansas City for team workouts. Baldwin said the Chiefs are planning to get together soon for more sessions.
“It’s great to meet everyone, and it’s a really good team,” Baldwin said. “I feel blessed to be part of it.”
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Joe Nicholson/US PRESSWIREMatt Cassel has provided top pick Jon Baldwin with a little offseason direction -- and housing.
Joe Nicholson/US PRESSWIREMatt Cassel has provided top pick Jon Baldwin with a little offseason direction -- and housing.“It was devastating to go into a town that was completely wiped out,” Baldwin said. “We just wanted to help the people as much as we could.”
There were reports that Baldwin initiated his involvement in the Joplin trip. While being interviewed for this story, Baldwin sounded uncomfortable talking about that aspect and said he didn't “want to take any credit” for it. Baldwin was soft-spoken and polite during the interview. He often said he was appreciative of the opportunity in Kansas City and he spoke several times of the importance of working hard and fitting in as a rookie.
I've dealt with plenty of diva receivers. I covered the likes of Randy Moss and Brandon Marshall on a daily basis. My diva radar did not sound when I spoke with Baldwin. Of course, he could turn into one, but it seems like he is set on going into the NFL with a clean slate.
He built a bit of a reputation for being a diva in college at Pittsburgh. There were work ethic questions. However, Kansas City general manager Scott Pioli is known for staying away from players who are considered character risks, and the Chiefs have said they are not worried about Baldwin being a problem player in the NFL.
It seems that Baldwin is planning to do his best to take advantage of a good situation. Soon after being drafted, Baldwin received a text from mentor and fellow former Pitt receiving great Larry Fitzgerald. The veteran told Baldwin he was fortunate to be able to play for Kansas City coach Todd Haley. Haley was the Arizona Cardinals' offensive coordinator and has a good relationship with Fitzgerald.
“Larry told me I will love playing for Coach Haley,” Baldwin said. “I look forward to it.”
The feeling is mutual. In a column that appeared in this blog earlier this month, Haley said he is excited about how the big Baldwin, whom the team wants to be the No. 2 receiver to Dwayne Bowe, will diversify an offense that already is dangerous thanks to the NFL’s top-ranked running game.
“As well as we ran the ball last year, we want to build our offense with more weapons on the outside,” Haley said. “It will make us harder to defend, hopefully. The name of the game is matchups and this hopefully will create some good matchups for us. It should make Dwayne Bowe better. It should make Matt Cassel better, it should make [tight end] Tony Moeaki better and it should make the running game better. That’s the plan. Let’s see if Jon can come in and do what we think he can do.”
Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. agrees with Haley that Kansas City's offense got more potent with the addition of Baldwin.
“I think they will ask Baldwin to be pretty much just a deep threat,” Williamson said. “He isn't a super quick-twitch guy, but he does have build-up speed and certainly knows how to get up and make plays on the ball deep downfield. And that ability should help Cassel, who isn't a real accurate passer deep.”
Baldwin said that the Chiefs' offense was plenty dangerous before his arrival and that he simply wants to enhance the group. If he does, he’ll likely be welcome back at Cassel’s house any time.
Earlier Friday, we examined a report that mentioned the Raiders as one of five teams being targeted by a group that wants to bring the NFL back to Los Angeles.
Now, the Oakland Tribune is reporting that the Raiders have said the team is not for sale and it will remain in the Davis family. That is no surprise. I’d have a difficult time seeing Al Davis letting go of the majority share of his prized possession.
In other AFC West nuggets:
Oakland guard Robert Gallery should cash in during free agency. Gallery has announced he will not return to the Raiders. A likely landing spot for him is Seattle where he’d reunite with former Oakland head coach Tom Cable. He is now the offensive line coach with the Seahawks.
Now, the Oakland Tribune is reporting that the Raiders have said the team is not for sale and it will remain in the Davis family. That is no surprise. I’d have a difficult time seeing Al Davis letting go of the majority share of his prized possession.
In other AFC West nuggets:
Oakland guard Robert Gallery should cash in during free agency. Gallery has announced he will not return to the Raiders. A likely landing spot for him is Seattle where he’d reunite with former Oakland head coach Tom Cable. He is now the offensive line coach with the Seahawks.
- The Broncos are counting on a healthy Eddie Royal in 2011.
- The Dolphins plan to bring on another veteran quarterback. Could we see a Kyle Orton-Brandon Marshall reunion in South Beach?
- The Broncos reached out to the family of a hero of the Joplin, Mo., tornado.
Despite the fact that the San Diego Chargers drafted two return men and a change-of-pace running back, the San Diego Union Tribune reports that coach Norv Turner said he wants to keep free-agent running back Darren Sproles.
Turner told the paper: “One of the guys I’m very interested in keeping on our football team and is a big part of what we do and will still be a big part of what we do if we keep him here is Darren Sproles. The fact we drafted a back and where he fits in would not affect our situation with Darren.”
San Diego drafted defensive back/returner Marcus Gilchrist of Clemson in the second round. In the sixth round, San Diego took Connecticut running back/returner Jordan Todman, who is considered by many as a steal. It seems like San Diego is, at least, preparing for Sproles to leave.
Sproles will be pricey and he could be attractive on the open market. Regardless of what Turner said, preparing for Sproles’ departure was the right call.
In other AFC West developments on Wednesday afternoon:
Football blogger -- and Turner’s daughter -- Stephanie Turner sticks up for the Chiefs’ decision to draft Pitt receiver Jon Baldwin.
The Denver Post has a look at the incredible story of third-round pick Nate Irving, who overcame an almost fatal car accident to become the starting middle linebacker in Denver.
Sports Illustrated's Peter King thinks the Dolphins regret their trade of Brandon Marshall last year. Who didn’t see this coming? Did you pay attention to Marshall’s antics in Denver, Miami? Trading Marshall was Josh McDaniels’ one gift to Denver.
While on “SportsCenter” Wednesday, Jets coach Rex Ryan said he and his coaching staff are using the extra time because of the lockout to study the four AFC West teams and four NFC East teams that they will play this season.
In an Insider piece,
Mel Kiper thinks Kansas City third-round pick, pass-rusher Justin Houston, can be an impact player as a rookie.
Turner told the paper: “One of the guys I’m very interested in keeping on our football team and is a big part of what we do and will still be a big part of what we do if we keep him here is Darren Sproles. The fact we drafted a back and where he fits in would not affect our situation with Darren.”
San Diego drafted defensive back/returner Marcus Gilchrist of Clemson in the second round. In the sixth round, San Diego took Connecticut running back/returner Jordan Todman, who is considered by many as a steal. It seems like San Diego is, at least, preparing for Sproles to leave.
Sproles will be pricey and he could be attractive on the open market. Regardless of what Turner said, preparing for Sproles’ departure was the right call.
In other AFC West developments on Wednesday afternoon:
Football blogger -- and Turner’s daughter -- Stephanie Turner sticks up for the Chiefs’ decision to draft Pitt receiver Jon Baldwin.
The Denver Post has a look at the incredible story of third-round pick Nate Irving, who overcame an almost fatal car accident to become the starting middle linebacker in Denver.
Sports Illustrated's Peter King thinks the Dolphins regret their trade of Brandon Marshall last year. Who didn’t see this coming? Did you pay attention to Marshall’s antics in Denver, Miami? Trading Marshall was Josh McDaniels’ one gift to Denver.
While on “SportsCenter” Wednesday, Jets coach Rex Ryan said he and his coaching staff are using the extra time because of the lockout to study the four AFC West teams and four NFC East teams that they will play this season.
In an Insider piece,
Now that the draft is completed, we have a better idea of what teams still need a quarterback and who could potentially be interested in Denver quarterback Kyle Orton. The pool has shrunk considerably as six quarterbacks were taken in the first 36 picks.
Orton -- along with Philadelphia’s Kevin Kolb and Cincinnati’s Carson Palmer -- could all be trade possibilities when the lockout ends.
However, the longer the lockout extends, the higher the odds are that Orton stays in Denver. If second-year quarterback Tim Tebow doesn’t get ample offseason work, the Broncos could be tempted to begin the season with Orton as the starter. Still, because Orton’s contract ends after this season, the Broncos might be swayed to trade him while they can get a decent return for him. Here are a few teams that may be interested in Orton because they didn’t address quarterback in the draft.
Arizona: This could be a good fit.
Buffalo: The Bills will likely stick with Ryan Fitzpatrick
Miami: Orton could paired with Brandon Marshall again.
Seattle: The Seahawks will likely pursue a veteran.
Tenneesse: Despite drafting Jake Locker, the Titans could look for a vet.
Washington: The Redskins may go with John Beck.
Orton -- along with Philadelphia’s Kevin Kolb and Cincinnati’s Carson Palmer -- could all be trade possibilities when the lockout ends.
However, the longer the lockout extends, the higher the odds are that Orton stays in Denver. If second-year quarterback Tim Tebow doesn’t get ample offseason work, the Broncos could be tempted to begin the season with Orton as the starter. Still, because Orton’s contract ends after this season, the Broncos might be swayed to trade him while they can get a decent return for him. Here are a few teams that may be interested in Orton because they didn’t address quarterback in the draft.
Arizona: This could be a good fit.
Buffalo: The Bills will likely stick with Ryan Fitzpatrick
Miami: Orton could paired with Brandon Marshall again.
Seattle: The Seahawks will likely pursue a veteran.
Tenneesse: Despite drafting Jake Locker, the Titans could look for a vet.
Washington: The Redskins may go with John Beck.



