AFC West: San Diego Chargers
Yeremiah Bell will not be the one who provides depth to the Kansas City Chiefs’ secondary.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the safety has signed with the New York Jets. Bell visited the Chiefs on Wednesday, and they were one of four teams he was considering.
The Chiefs were interested in Bell as a third safety. The Chiefs also looked at veteran O.J. Atogwe.
In other AFC West news:
Here is a call for the Raiders to cut troubled middle linebacker Rolando McClain. He was the No. 8 overall pick in the 2010 draft. He has been a disappointment on the field and a distraction off it.
Once again, in a radio interview, LaDainian Tomlinson, said he’d consider playing for the Chargers again. And, once again, I just can’t see that happening.
New Denver defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio, in radio interview, said he expects his unit to be a top-10 defense. For that to be possible, the defensive tackles would have to mesh quickly.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the safety has signed with the New York Jets. Bell visited the Chiefs on Wednesday, and they were one of four teams he was considering.
The Chiefs were interested in Bell as a third safety. The Chiefs also looked at veteran O.J. Atogwe.
In other AFC West news:
Here is a call for the Raiders to cut troubled middle linebacker Rolando McClain. He was the No. 8 overall pick in the 2010 draft. He has been a disappointment on the field and a distraction off it.
Once again, in a radio interview, LaDainian Tomlinson, said he’d consider playing for the Chargers again. And, once again, I just can’t see that happening.
New Denver defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio, in radio interview, said he expects his unit to be a top-10 defense. For that to be possible, the defensive tackles would have to mesh quickly.
Will Rolando McClain miss playing time?
May, 17, 2012
May 17
6:55
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
I have received a lot of questions from readers this afternoon about how much of the 2012 season Oakland middle linebacker Rolando McClain will miss because of his court case in Alabama.
Right now, it is impossible to guess.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that after being sentenced to 180 days in jail, McClain's attorney, Harvey Steinberg, said McClain has filed a request for a jury trial and now, under state law, "the process starts all over again." Steinberg said McClain will be notified at a later date as to when the jury trial will begin.
If the jury trial is a quick process and McClain is sentenced, he could face jail time during the season. But who knows how long the process will be and there are appeals and other situations at play. Often, when athletes serve jail terms, their attorneys try to arrange it that the time is served during their offseason.
Also, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell could decide to discipline at any time if he chooses to suspend McClain. Again, this is a legal situation that is fluid. Any speculation on McClain missing time would be mere guesswork.
UPDATE: The Raiders released this stamement on the McClain situation: “The Raiders are well aware of the proceedings in the Alabama courts today. The team will continue to closely monitor the legal process, understanding that when appropriate the NFL will review the situation under its personal conduct policy.”
In other AFC West news:
The Broncos and kicker Matt Prater have a model to work with on a new deal. Fellow franchised kicker Conner Barth received a four-year, $13.2 million deal from Tampa Bay on Thursday. Prater has yet to sign his tender and he is not with the team during OTAs.
San Diego coach Norv Turner turned 60 on Thursday. Turner has proclaimed Chargers star tight end Antonio Gates ”back.” Gates has been dealing with foot injuries for several years.
Oakland running back Darren McFadden talks about his return to health on ESPN radio.
The Broncos announced they've signed fourth-round pick Omar Bolden. The cornerback is the team’s first pick to sign.
Right now, it is impossible to guess.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that after being sentenced to 180 days in jail, McClain's attorney, Harvey Steinberg, said McClain has filed a request for a jury trial and now, under state law, "the process starts all over again." Steinberg said McClain will be notified at a later date as to when the jury trial will begin.
If the jury trial is a quick process and McClain is sentenced, he could face jail time during the season. But who knows how long the process will be and there are appeals and other situations at play. Often, when athletes serve jail terms, their attorneys try to arrange it that the time is served during their offseason.
Also, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell could decide to discipline at any time if he chooses to suspend McClain. Again, this is a legal situation that is fluid. Any speculation on McClain missing time would be mere guesswork.
UPDATE: The Raiders released this stamement on the McClain situation: “The Raiders are well aware of the proceedings in the Alabama courts today. The team will continue to closely monitor the legal process, understanding that when appropriate the NFL will review the situation under its personal conduct policy.”
In other AFC West news:
The Broncos and kicker Matt Prater have a model to work with on a new deal. Fellow franchised kicker Conner Barth received a four-year, $13.2 million deal from Tampa Bay on Thursday. Prater has yet to sign his tender and he is not with the team during OTAs.
San Diego coach Norv Turner turned 60 on Thursday. Turner has proclaimed Chargers star tight end Antonio Gates ”back.” Gates has been dealing with foot injuries for several years.
Oakland running back Darren McFadden talks about his return to health on ESPN radio.
The Broncos announced they've signed fourth-round pick Omar Bolden. The cornerback is the team’s first pick to sign.
The Chiefs announced they have signed tackle Donald Stephenson, a third-round pick.
The Chiefs’ lone remaining unsigned draft pick is nose tackle Dontari Poe. He was the No. 11 pick in the draft.
San Diego has signed its entire draft class.
In other AFC West news:
The co-defendant of Rolando McClain in an Alabama assault case has pleaded guilty and has agreed to testify against McClain. The Raiders linebacker is on trial today in his hometown.
Former Miami safety Yeremiah Bell is reportedly considering four teams and the Chiefs are one of them. He visited Kansas City this week and would provide depth for the Chiefs.
Junior Seau’s restaurant near Qualcomm Stadium has shut down. Seau committed suicide on May 2. It was open since 1996.
The Denver Post reports the Broncos are close to deals with their top draft picks, defensive tackle Derek Wolfe and quarterback Brock Osweiler.
Cutting down on turnovers is a key in San Diego.
Kansas City general manager Scott Pioli reiterates his support of quarterback Matt Cassel in a radio interview.
ESPN’s Jeffri Chadiha writes about Kansas City owner Clark Hunt and what Hunt needs to do in his role.
The Chiefs’ lone remaining unsigned draft pick is nose tackle Dontari Poe. He was the No. 11 pick in the draft.
San Diego has signed its entire draft class.
In other AFC West news:
The co-defendant of Rolando McClain in an Alabama assault case has pleaded guilty and has agreed to testify against McClain. The Raiders linebacker is on trial today in his hometown.
Former Miami safety Yeremiah Bell is reportedly considering four teams and the Chiefs are one of them. He visited Kansas City this week and would provide depth for the Chiefs.
Junior Seau’s restaurant near Qualcomm Stadium has shut down. Seau committed suicide on May 2. It was open since 1996.
The Denver Post reports the Broncos are close to deals with their top draft picks, defensive tackle Derek Wolfe and quarterback Brock Osweiler.
Cutting down on turnovers is a key in San Diego.
Kansas City general manager Scott Pioli reiterates his support of quarterback Matt Cassel in a radio interview.
ESPN’s Jeffri Chadiha writes about Kansas City owner Clark Hunt and what Hunt needs to do in his role.
The Kansas City Chiefs have signed safety DeQuan Menzie. He was a fifth-round pick. The Chiefs have six of their eight draft picks signed.
The Chiefs also announced they signed free agents, defensive back Dominique Ellis, tight end Martin Rucker, offensive lineman Rich Ranglin and linebacker Leon Williams. Rucker and Williams are former draft picks of the Browns when current Chiefs’ coach Romeo Crennel was the coach in Cleveland.
In other AFC West notes:
— Video has emerged from the incident that led to the arrest of Oakland middle linebacker Rolando McClain in his hometown in Alabama last fall. McClain will go to trial in the case Thursday.
— Oakland quarterback Carson Palmer helps explains why Terrell Owens worked out with Palmer and some Oakland receivers this offseason. That doesn’t mean Owens is coming to Oakland’s crowded receiver’s room.
— As expected, Denver kicker Matt Prater is not participating in the team’s OTAs. He has not signed his franchise tag, so missing OTAs is normal procedure.
— In a radio interview, Oakland safety Tyvon Branch said he is not focusing on getting a long-term deal, even though he’d like on. Branch recently signed his franchise tender and he has rejoined the team.
— The home of former San Diego star linebacker Junior Seau was burglarized five days after Seau committed suicide.
The Chiefs also announced they signed free agents, defensive back Dominique Ellis, tight end Martin Rucker, offensive lineman Rich Ranglin and linebacker Leon Williams. Rucker and Williams are former draft picks of the Browns when current Chiefs’ coach Romeo Crennel was the coach in Cleveland.
In other AFC West notes:
— Video has emerged from the incident that led to the arrest of Oakland middle linebacker Rolando McClain in his hometown in Alabama last fall. McClain will go to trial in the case Thursday.
— Oakland quarterback Carson Palmer helps explains why Terrell Owens worked out with Palmer and some Oakland receivers this offseason. That doesn’t mean Owens is coming to Oakland’s crowded receiver’s room.
— As expected, Denver kicker Matt Prater is not participating in the team’s OTAs. He has not signed his franchise tag, so missing OTAs is normal procedure.
— In a radio interview, Oakland safety Tyvon Branch said he is not focusing on getting a long-term deal, even though he’d like on. Branch recently signed his franchise tender and he has rejoined the team.
— The home of former San Diego star linebacker Junior Seau was burglarized five days after Seau committed suicide.
The Denver Broncos will have a coaching change on the defensive side of the ball.
The team announced Monday that defensive line coach Wayne Nunnely has retired. Nunnely, 60, has coached for 36 years, including the past 17 in the NFL. He was with Denver for the past three seasons. Nunnely also coached in San Diego for nearly a decade.
He will be replaced by Jay Rodgers. He has been a defensive assistant in Denver for the past three years.
“It has been an absolute dream come true for me to coach for 36 years,” Nunnely said in a statement released by the team. “I am so thankful for all the opportunities I have been given to have a positive impact on others through the game of football. More than anything, I am proud of the accomplishments of the teams and players I have been so privileged to work with over the years.
“This was not an easy decision, but it was the right one for me and my family. At this stage of my life, I want to devote more time to my wife, Velda, and the rest of our family. They have been with me every step of the way through an incredible career that I’ve been so blessed to enjoy. The NFL has a wonderful retirement plan, and it’s time for me to begin the next chapter of my life.
“The defensive line will be in good hands with Jay Rodgers, whom I’ve worked with closely for the last three years. He is very deserving of this opportunity, which he has earned through his hard work and knowledge. Jay has many great qualities as a person and coach that will make him successful in his new role.”
The team announced Monday that defensive line coach Wayne Nunnely has retired. Nunnely, 60, has coached for 36 years, including the past 17 in the NFL. He was with Denver for the past three seasons. Nunnely also coached in San Diego for nearly a decade.
He will be replaced by Jay Rodgers. He has been a defensive assistant in Denver for the past three years.
“It has been an absolute dream come true for me to coach for 36 years,” Nunnely said in a statement released by the team. “I am so thankful for all the opportunities I have been given to have a positive impact on others through the game of football. More than anything, I am proud of the accomplishments of the teams and players I have been so privileged to work with over the years.
“This was not an easy decision, but it was the right one for me and my family. At this stage of my life, I want to devote more time to my wife, Velda, and the rest of our family. They have been with me every step of the way through an incredible career that I’ve been so blessed to enjoy. The NFL has a wonderful retirement plan, and it’s time for me to begin the next chapter of my life.
“The defensive line will be in good hands with Jay Rodgers, whom I’ve worked with closely for the last three years. He is very deserving of this opportunity, which he has earned through his hard work and knowledge. Jay has many great qualities as a person and coach that will make him successful in his new role.”
The Kansas City Chiefs just announced that their rookie free-agent class is signed. Here is the team’s release:
WR Josh Bellamy (6-0, 206) played in 26 games (17 starts) in two seasons at Louisville, compiling 53 catches for 681 yards (12.8 avg.) with seven touchdowns. Bellamy spent two years at Butte Community College in Oroville, Calif., prior to his arrival at Louisville. Bellamy prepped at Boca Ciega High School in Gulfport, Fla.
TE Tim Biere (6-4, 260) played in 44 games (28 starts) at Kansas, recording 66 catches for 798 yards (12.1 avg.) with six touchdowns. He was an all-super state first-team selection his senior year at Westside High school in Omaha, Neb.
OL Justin Cheadle (6-2, 290) played in 47 games (33 starts) at California. Cheadle started 21 consecutive games at right guard spanning all 13 contests of 2009 and the first eight of 2010, before returning to start all 13 games his senior season. He prepped at Bakersfield High School in Bakersfield, Calif.
RB Nate Eachus (5-10, 212) played in 37 games (28 starts) at Colgate, rushing 838 times for 4,484 yards (5.4 avg.) with 53 touchdowns and hauled in 40 receptions for 395 yards (9.9 avg.) with two touchdowns. He was team captain in his senior year at Hazleton Area High School in Hazleton, Pa., and was named the 2007 PIAA District Dream Team Player of the Year.
DB Jean Fanor (6-1, 200) played in 37 games (22 starts) at Bethune-Cookman, registering 127 tackles (70 solo), 6.5 tackles for loss (-26.0 yards), three interceptions for 19 yards, 13 passes defensed, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He also spent time on offense as a wide receiver, recording five receptions for 91 yards (18.2 avg.) with a touchdown. He was an all-county performer at North Miami Senior High School in North Miami, Fla.
DB Chandler Fenner (6-1, 189) played in 44 games at Holy Cross, tallying 133 tackles (108 solo), 3.0 sacks (-14.0 yards), four forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. He added two interceptions returned for 49 yards and 18 passes defensed. The Virginia Beach, Va., native prepped at Frank W. Cox High School in Virginia Beach, Va.
FB Taylor Gentry (6-2, 250) played in 44 games at North Carolina State, catching 38 passes for 313 yards (8.2 avg.) and recording 61 tackles (22 solo). He was two-time all-conference, all-area and team MVP at Leesville Road High School in Raleigh, N.C., as a tight end, wide receiver, outside linebacker and defensive end.
DB Tysyn Hartman (6-3, 206) played in 50 games (45 starts) at Kansas State, tallying 258 tackles (155 solo), 10 interceptions returned for 119 yards and 12 passes defensed. He was a three-year starter at both quarterback and defensive back at Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School in Wichita, Kan., earning first-team all-state honors as a defensive back.
LB Dexter Heyman (6-3, 238) played in 43 games (23 starts) at Louisville, compiling 156 tackles (98 solo), 23.5 tackles for loss (-80.0 yards), 6.5 sacks (-43.0 yards), three interceptions, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and five passes defensed. He was a first-team all-state selection at Male High School in Louisville, Ky.
OL Cam Holland (6-2, 320) played in 36 games (30 starts) on the offensive line at North Carolina, primarily at center. He was a first-team all-state performer at Perry Traditional Academy in Pittsburgh, Pa.
DE Ethan Johnson (6-4, 300) played in 47 games (37 starts) at Notre Dame, compiling 97 tackles (43 solo), 18.5 tackles for loss (-83.0 yards), 12.5 sacks (-68.0 yards), a forced fumble, four fumble recoveries, six passes defensed and a blocked extra point. He was a U.S. Army All-American selection at Lincoln High School in Portland, Ore.
WR Brandon Kinnie (6-3, 220) played in 40 games (20 starts) in three seasons at Nebraska, recording 81 receptions for 892 yards (11.0 avg.) with six touchdowns. He caught 62 passes for 845 yards (13.6 avg.) and 10 touchdowns as a freshman at Fort Scott Community College in Fort Scott, Kan. He was an all-state performer at Grandview High School in Grandview, Mo.
DB Terrance Parks (6-2, 218) played in 43 games (25 starts) at Florida State, compiling 99 tackles (65 solo), nine passes defensed, two fumble recoveries and an interception returned for a touchdown. He was an Under Armour All-American at Creekside High School in Fairburn, Ga., where he played in the same secondary as Chiefs S Eric Berry.
K Matt Szymanski (6-1, 196) played in 52 games between SMU (2009-10) and Texas A&M (2006-07), competing in 26 contests at each school. He converted 35 of 58 (60.3 pct.) career field goal attempts with a long of 61 yards and was successful on all 131 extra point attempts. He also punted 123 times for 5,105 yards (41.5 avg.) with a long of 74 yards. He was rated the No. 1 kicker in the nation at A&M Consolidated High School in College Station, Texas.
DB Neiko Thorpe (6-2, 185) played in 51 games (40 starts) at Auburn, compiling 279 tackles (172 solo), seven interceptions returned for 189 yards (27.0 avg.), 35 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and a blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. He was an Under Armour All-American at Tucker High School in Tucker,
In other AFC West news:
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Raiders have given former Jets vice president of college scouting Joey Clinkscales the title of Director of Personnel, overseeing pro and college operations. Schefter reported the Raiders hired Clinkscales earlier in the week. Clinkscales and Oakland general manager Reggie McKenzie were childhood friends.
U-T San Diego reports that Chargers' first-round pick Melvin Ingram lined up at strongside linebacker at the team’s minicamp. The paper also reported former San Diego star safety Rodney Harrison is no longer scheduled to speak at Friday night’s celebration of life for Junior Seau at Qualcomm Stadium.
WR Josh Bellamy (6-0, 206) played in 26 games (17 starts) in two seasons at Louisville, compiling 53 catches for 681 yards (12.8 avg.) with seven touchdowns. Bellamy spent two years at Butte Community College in Oroville, Calif., prior to his arrival at Louisville. Bellamy prepped at Boca Ciega High School in Gulfport, Fla.
TE Tim Biere (6-4, 260) played in 44 games (28 starts) at Kansas, recording 66 catches for 798 yards (12.1 avg.) with six touchdowns. He was an all-super state first-team selection his senior year at Westside High school in Omaha, Neb.
OL Justin Cheadle (6-2, 290) played in 47 games (33 starts) at California. Cheadle started 21 consecutive games at right guard spanning all 13 contests of 2009 and the first eight of 2010, before returning to start all 13 games his senior season. He prepped at Bakersfield High School in Bakersfield, Calif.
RB Nate Eachus (5-10, 212) played in 37 games (28 starts) at Colgate, rushing 838 times for 4,484 yards (5.4 avg.) with 53 touchdowns and hauled in 40 receptions for 395 yards (9.9 avg.) with two touchdowns. He was team captain in his senior year at Hazleton Area High School in Hazleton, Pa., and was named the 2007 PIAA District Dream Team Player of the Year.
DB Jean Fanor (6-1, 200) played in 37 games (22 starts) at Bethune-Cookman, registering 127 tackles (70 solo), 6.5 tackles for loss (-26.0 yards), three interceptions for 19 yards, 13 passes defensed, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He also spent time on offense as a wide receiver, recording five receptions for 91 yards (18.2 avg.) with a touchdown. He was an all-county performer at North Miami Senior High School in North Miami, Fla.
DB Chandler Fenner (6-1, 189) played in 44 games at Holy Cross, tallying 133 tackles (108 solo), 3.0 sacks (-14.0 yards), four forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. He added two interceptions returned for 49 yards and 18 passes defensed. The Virginia Beach, Va., native prepped at Frank W. Cox High School in Virginia Beach, Va.
FB Taylor Gentry (6-2, 250) played in 44 games at North Carolina State, catching 38 passes for 313 yards (8.2 avg.) and recording 61 tackles (22 solo). He was two-time all-conference, all-area and team MVP at Leesville Road High School in Raleigh, N.C., as a tight end, wide receiver, outside linebacker and defensive end.
DB Tysyn Hartman (6-3, 206) played in 50 games (45 starts) at Kansas State, tallying 258 tackles (155 solo), 10 interceptions returned for 119 yards and 12 passes defensed. He was a three-year starter at both quarterback and defensive back at Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School in Wichita, Kan., earning first-team all-state honors as a defensive back.
LB Dexter Heyman (6-3, 238) played in 43 games (23 starts) at Louisville, compiling 156 tackles (98 solo), 23.5 tackles for loss (-80.0 yards), 6.5 sacks (-43.0 yards), three interceptions, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and five passes defensed. He was a first-team all-state selection at Male High School in Louisville, Ky.
OL Cam Holland (6-2, 320) played in 36 games (30 starts) on the offensive line at North Carolina, primarily at center. He was a first-team all-state performer at Perry Traditional Academy in Pittsburgh, Pa.
DE Ethan Johnson (6-4, 300) played in 47 games (37 starts) at Notre Dame, compiling 97 tackles (43 solo), 18.5 tackles for loss (-83.0 yards), 12.5 sacks (-68.0 yards), a forced fumble, four fumble recoveries, six passes defensed and a blocked extra point. He was a U.S. Army All-American selection at Lincoln High School in Portland, Ore.
WR Brandon Kinnie (6-3, 220) played in 40 games (20 starts) in three seasons at Nebraska, recording 81 receptions for 892 yards (11.0 avg.) with six touchdowns. He caught 62 passes for 845 yards (13.6 avg.) and 10 touchdowns as a freshman at Fort Scott Community College in Fort Scott, Kan. He was an all-state performer at Grandview High School in Grandview, Mo.
DB Terrance Parks (6-2, 218) played in 43 games (25 starts) at Florida State, compiling 99 tackles (65 solo), nine passes defensed, two fumble recoveries and an interception returned for a touchdown. He was an Under Armour All-American at Creekside High School in Fairburn, Ga., where he played in the same secondary as Chiefs S Eric Berry.
K Matt Szymanski (6-1, 196) played in 52 games between SMU (2009-10) and Texas A&M (2006-07), competing in 26 contests at each school. He converted 35 of 58 (60.3 pct.) career field goal attempts with a long of 61 yards and was successful on all 131 extra point attempts. He also punted 123 times for 5,105 yards (41.5 avg.) with a long of 74 yards. He was rated the No. 1 kicker in the nation at A&M Consolidated High School in College Station, Texas.
DB Neiko Thorpe (6-2, 185) played in 51 games (40 starts) at Auburn, compiling 279 tackles (172 solo), seven interceptions returned for 189 yards (27.0 avg.), 35 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and a blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. He was an Under Armour All-American at Tucker High School in Tucker,
In other AFC West news:
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Raiders have given former Jets vice president of college scouting Joey Clinkscales the title of Director of Personnel, overseeing pro and college operations. Schefter reported the Raiders hired Clinkscales earlier in the week. Clinkscales and Oakland general manager Reggie McKenzie were childhood friends.
U-T San Diego reports that Chargers' first-round pick Melvin Ingram lined up at strongside linebacker at the team’s minicamp. The paper also reported former San Diego star safety Rodney Harrison is no longer scheduled to speak at Friday night’s celebration of life for Junior Seau at Qualcomm Stadium.
With the San Diego Chargers having signed all but one of their 2012 draft choices, the Kansas City Chiefs finally got in on the action.
The Chiefs just announced they signed four picks: fourth-round receiver Devon Wylie, sixth-round running back Cyrus Gray and two seventh-round picks -- defensive tackle Jerome Long and receiver Junior Hemingway.
All four players have a chance to make the team. Wylie has a chance to be a contributor right away.
The Chiefs just announced they signed four picks: fourth-round receiver Devon Wylie, sixth-round running back Cyrus Gray and two seventh-round picks -- defensive tackle Jerome Long and receiver Junior Hemingway.
All four players have a chance to make the team. Wylie has a chance to be a contributor right away.
Denver adds Florence to strong CB group
May, 10, 2012
May 10
5:45
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
The Denver Broncos have won their first AFC West battle of 2012.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Denver has signed cornerback Drayton Florence to a two-year deal. Florence, who has started 45 games in the past three seasons, was cut by Buffalo last week.
Florence was highly coveted after being released by the Bills. He visited Tennessee on Wednesday. San Diego, where he spent his first five NFL seasons, was also trying to sign Florence. Schefter reports Denver will pay Florence fairly well.
San Diego wanted Florence, 31, as a nickel cornerback, and that is likely the role he will have in Denver. He adds depth to a talented cornerback crew that includes starters Champ Bailey and Tracy Porter.
I could see some situations where Bailey plays nickel in some instances. He played some nickel last season. The Broncos also have Chris Harris, an undrafted player in 2011 who played well, and 2012 fourth-round pick Omar Bolden. He missed last season with a torn ACL, but the Arizona State product was considered a second-round talent before his injury.
Thus, Denver has a deep and talented cornerback group, and the Florence addition strengthens it. Last month, Denver tried to trade for Asante Samuel, but it couldn’t come to an accord with Samuel.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Denver has signed cornerback Drayton Florence to a two-year deal. Florence, who has started 45 games in the past three seasons, was cut by Buffalo last week.
Florence was highly coveted after being released by the Bills. He visited Tennessee on Wednesday. San Diego, where he spent his first five NFL seasons, was also trying to sign Florence. Schefter reports Denver will pay Florence fairly well.
San Diego wanted Florence, 31, as a nickel cornerback, and that is likely the role he will have in Denver. He adds depth to a talented cornerback crew that includes starters Champ Bailey and Tracy Porter.
I could see some situations where Bailey plays nickel in some instances. He played some nickel last season. The Broncos also have Chris Harris, an undrafted player in 2011 who played well, and 2012 fourth-round pick Omar Bolden. He missed last season with a torn ACL, but the Arizona State product was considered a second-round talent before his injury.
Thus, Denver has a deep and talented cornerback group, and the Florence addition strengthens it. Last month, Denver tried to trade for Asante Samuel, but it couldn’t come to an accord with Samuel.
After showing signs in 2011 that he was capable of having a solid career, Oakland receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey reportedly has been charged with drunken driving.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported that Heyward-Bey was arrested last month on the Bay Bridge and was charged Wednesday with drunken driving stemming from the April 7 incident. He has a May 31 court date.
It is Heyward-Bey’s first known legal trouble since entering the NFL three years ago. He likely will not face an NFL suspension if convicted, but he is subject to being entered in the league’s substance abuse program.
Heyward-Bey, 25, had a solid season in 2011, catching 64 passes for 975 yards after struggling badly in his first two NFL seasons. Heyward-Bey was the No. 7 overall draft pick in 2009.
In other AFC West news:
In an Insider piece, ESPN analyst Bill Polian writes that San Diego running back Ryan Mathews is one of the players most pivotal to his team’s success.
Former Oakland star receiver Fred Biletnikoff will consult on football operations on the advisory board for the relaunched USFL.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported that Heyward-Bey was arrested last month on the Bay Bridge and was charged Wednesday with drunken driving stemming from the April 7 incident. He has a May 31 court date.
It is Heyward-Bey’s first known legal trouble since entering the NFL three years ago. He likely will not face an NFL suspension if convicted, but he is subject to being entered in the league’s substance abuse program.
Heyward-Bey, 25, had a solid season in 2011, catching 64 passes for 975 yards after struggling badly in his first two NFL seasons. Heyward-Bey was the No. 7 overall draft pick in 2009.
In other AFC West news:
In an Insider piece, ESPN analyst Bill Polian writes that San Diego running back Ryan Mathews is one of the players most pivotal to his team’s success.
Former Oakland star receiver Fred Biletnikoff will consult on football operations on the advisory board for the relaunched USFL.
Buffalo released cornerback Drayton Florence. He started 45 games in the past three seasons. It could be worth Oakland’s while to explore acquiring him. His experience would help at the Raiders’ biggest worry position.
Denver looked into trading for Asante Samuel, so perhaps it will be interested in Florence. Detroit could also be among the teams interested in Florence.
Can the NFL learn from the Junior Seau tragedy? U-T San Diego explores what can be done.
Denver looked into trading for Asante Samuel, so perhaps it will be interested in Florence. Detroit could also be among the teams interested in Florence.
Can the NFL learn from the Junior Seau tragedy? U-T San Diego explores what can be done.
New Oakland head coach Dennis Allen told the Bay Area News Group that if the Raiders use a 3-4 defense that Tommy Kelly would be the nose tackle. Allen has yet to commit to a base defense and he has said Oakland will use multiple fronts.
There have been indications that the 4-3 defense will be the team’s base, but I do expect some 3-4 looks.
Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. thinks Oakland should use multiple looks and he thinks Kelly could fill the nose tackle role in some instances.
“I think it would be foolish for Oakland not to be multiple and I am sure they know that is the plan,” Williamson said. “With defensive linemen like Lamarr Houston and, especially, Richard Seymour and Kelly, they have a lot of versatility where they line up up front. … Looking over the roster, the Raiders do lack a true plugger early down nose tackle. Kelly would fit that mold best.”
In other AFC West news:
Former Chiefs and Chargers coach Marty Schottenheimer mourns the death of Junior Seau.
New Denver quarterback Peyton Manning hit the field with his new teammates and coaches for the first time.
Bill Barnwell thinks the Raiders and Chargers are among the teams still with a glaring hole.
Baltimore star pass-rusher Terrell Suggs could miss the entire season with a torn Achilles. The Ravens play the AFC West this season.
There have been indications that the 4-3 defense will be the team’s base, but I do expect some 3-4 looks.
Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. thinks Oakland should use multiple looks and he thinks Kelly could fill the nose tackle role in some instances.
“I think it would be foolish for Oakland not to be multiple and I am sure they know that is the plan,” Williamson said. “With defensive linemen like Lamarr Houston and, especially, Richard Seymour and Kelly, they have a lot of versatility where they line up up front. … Looking over the roster, the Raiders do lack a true plugger early down nose tackle. Kelly would fit that mold best.”
In other AFC West news:
Former Chiefs and Chargers coach Marty Schottenheimer mourns the death of Junior Seau.
New Denver quarterback Peyton Manning hit the field with his new teammates and coaches for the first time.
Bill Barnwell thinks the Raiders and Chargers are among the teams still with a glaring hole.
Baltimore star pass-rusher Terrell Suggs could miss the entire season with a torn Achilles. The Ravens play the AFC West this season.
The Broncos’ compensation in the Tim Tebow trade is a gift for Tebow’s replacement, Peyton Manning.
Denver took Baylor center Philip Blake with the No. 108 pick, in the fourth round. That was the primary pick the Jets gave up in the Tebow trade.
Interestingly, Blake will backup/compete with J.D. Walton, a former Baylor teammate. Denver took Walton two years ago and he has been the team’s starter. Manning has been working closely with Walton since Manning signed in Denver last month. Blake likely won’t compete with Walton right away.
The Broncos made an interesting pick early in the fourth round in the in the form of Arizona State cornerback Omar Bolden. He missed all of last season with an ACL injury. He has excellent cover skills and, if healthy, he likely would have been a second-round pick last year.
Bolden is now healthy. It’s a worthwhile pick for Denver since they are looking for young cornerbacks who don’t have to start right away. This pick has a chance to be a steal.
The Chiefs love small, return types. They drafted Devon Wylie of Fresno State in the fourth round. Wylie is dynamic player. He is fast and NFL-ready, yet he is just 5-foot-9, 188 pounds. He can also kelp in the return game, where the Chiefs have several options. Wylie is similar to 2010 second-round pick Dexter McCluster.
He and McCluster can be on the field together with McCluster being in the backfield. With big receiver Dwayne Bowe and Jon Baldwin, the Chiefs continue to give themselves matchup options.
The Chargers began to start thinking about a post-Antonio Gates world by taking Louisiana-Lafayette tight end Ladarius Green in the fourth round. Like the Chargers’ first three picks, Green was expected to go earlier in the draft. He is an interesting prospect for down the road.
Denver took Baylor center Philip Blake with the No. 108 pick, in the fourth round. That was the primary pick the Jets gave up in the Tebow trade.
Interestingly, Blake will backup/compete with J.D. Walton, a former Baylor teammate. Denver took Walton two years ago and he has been the team’s starter. Manning has been working closely with Walton since Manning signed in Denver last month. Blake likely won’t compete with Walton right away.
The Broncos made an interesting pick early in the fourth round in the in the form of Arizona State cornerback Omar Bolden. He missed all of last season with an ACL injury. He has excellent cover skills and, if healthy, he likely would have been a second-round pick last year.
Bolden is now healthy. It’s a worthwhile pick for Denver since they are looking for young cornerbacks who don’t have to start right away. This pick has a chance to be a steal.
The Chiefs love small, return types. They drafted Devon Wylie of Fresno State in the fourth round. Wylie is dynamic player. He is fast and NFL-ready, yet he is just 5-foot-9, 188 pounds. He can also kelp in the return game, where the Chiefs have several options. Wylie is similar to 2010 second-round pick Dexter McCluster.
He and McCluster can be on the field together with McCluster being in the backfield. With big receiver Dwayne Bowe and Jon Baldwin, the Chiefs continue to give themselves matchup options.
The Chargers began to start thinking about a post-Antonio Gates world by taking Louisiana-Lafayette tight end Ladarius Green in the fourth round. Like the Chargers’ first three picks, Green was expected to go earlier in the draft. He is an interesting prospect for down the road.
With word that the Cleveland Browns will try to trade quarterback Colt McCoy, I’ve been asked often if he will fit in the AFC West. Oakland is the only team in the division without a true backup at that position. If the Oakland Raiders want to bring in McCoy, fine, built I don’t think it is pressing and I’m not a big McCoy fan, so I don’t think it should be a priority. There is a report that says McCoy could be sent to Green Bay.
In other AFC West news:
ESPN’s Ed Werder reported the Cowboys could listen to offers for cornerback Mike Jenkins. I think he could be a good fit for Oakland and he is fairly inexpensive. It may be worth a call for the Raiders.
Please check out our draft tracker. It has analysis and video of each pick and offers nice insight into new Chief Dontari Poe and new Charger Melvin Ingram.
News that New Orleans general manager Mickey Loomis was allegedly able to listen on opposing coaches could be annoying to Kansas City Chiefs fans.
The Saints beat the visiting Chiefs, 27-20, on Nov. 14, 2004 at the Superdome. The Saints won the game in the fourth quarter and overcame a 10-point deficit in the game. A week later, Denver crushed the Saints, 34-13, at the Superdome. Those were the only games at the Superdome spanning the 2002-04 seasons. ESPN’s “Outside the Lines’ is reporting that Loomis had the ability to listen to opposing coaches in his suite at the Superdome spanning those seasons.
In other AFC West news:
Boise State outside linebacker Shea McClellin may be on the Chargers’ radar at No. 18. I could see him being a potential target in a trade-down situation.
The Oakland Tribune has an interesting look at Raiders’ owner Mark Davis.
The Broncos’ playbook has a modern look.
The Saints beat the visiting Chiefs, 27-20, on Nov. 14, 2004 at the Superdome. The Saints won the game in the fourth quarter and overcame a 10-point deficit in the game. A week later, Denver crushed the Saints, 34-13, at the Superdome. Those were the only games at the Superdome spanning the 2002-04 seasons. ESPN’s “Outside the Lines’ is reporting that Loomis had the ability to listen to opposing coaches in his suite at the Superdome spanning those seasons.
In other AFC West news:
Boise State outside linebacker Shea McClellin may be on the Chargers’ radar at No. 18. I could see him being a potential target in a trade-down situation.
The Oakland Tribune has an interesting look at Raiders’ owner Mark Davis.
The Broncos’ playbook has a modern look.
The Oakland Raiders will now play five games in 2012 that start at 10 a.m. PT.
The Raiders’ Week 2 game at Miami has been switched from a 4:15 ET p.m. kickoff to 1 p.m. on Sept. 16. The time was changed to accommodate fans who celebrate the Rosh Hashanah holiday.
This is the first time in team history that Oakland will play in the Eastern Time zone five times. For years, West Coast teams have said playing games that start at 10 a.m. PT are quite challenging because of the early time adjustment.
In other AFC West news:
Steve Muench of Scouts Inc. writes in an Insider piece that Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore could be a late-round fit for Denver, and Chattanooga quarterback B.J. Coleman could be a late-round find for San Diego.
There is late buzz surrounding Marshall defensive end Vinny Curry. I could see him on the Charger’s radar at No. 18, or if they make a trade down.
The murder trial of former Raiders’ defensive lineman Anthony Smith ended in a mistrial.
Chicago signed Tampa Bay linebacker Geno Hayes. He visited Denver several weeks ago.
In an Insider piece,
Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. looks at the draft challenges that face the Raiders.
The Raiders’ Week 2 game at Miami has been switched from a 4:15 ET p.m. kickoff to 1 p.m. on Sept. 16. The time was changed to accommodate fans who celebrate the Rosh Hashanah holiday.
This is the first time in team history that Oakland will play in the Eastern Time zone five times. For years, West Coast teams have said playing games that start at 10 a.m. PT are quite challenging because of the early time adjustment.
In other AFC West news:
Steve Muench of Scouts Inc. writes in an Insider piece that Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore could be a late-round fit for Denver, and Chattanooga quarterback B.J. Coleman could be a late-round find for San Diego.
There is late buzz surrounding Marshall defensive end Vinny Curry. I could see him on the Charger’s radar at No. 18, or if they make a trade down.
The murder trial of former Raiders’ defensive lineman Anthony Smith ended in a mistrial.
Chicago signed Tampa Bay linebacker Geno Hayes. He visited Denver several weeks ago.
In an Insider piece,
Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc. looks at the draft challenges that face the Raiders.ABOUT THIS BLOG
Bill Williamson
Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
