NFC North: Corey Williams
Polian: Nick Fairley a pivotal Lions player
May, 11, 2012
May 11
10:15
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
Bill Polian's list of 10 pivotal players in the NFL this season 
includes Detroit Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley. You'll need an Insider subscription to see the entire file, but here is what Polian wrote about Fairley:
The most interesting part of the choice is that Polian didn't bother suggesting that one of the Lions' defensive backs needs to step it up, whether it's safety Amari Spievey or cornerback Aaron Berry or anyone else who might play a prominent role in improving the team's pass defense. Polian instead focused on the impact of strengthening what is already one of the NFL's more dominant defensive fronts.
That appears to be in line with the Lions' philosophy when you look at how they've focused their roster building in recent years. Over the past three years, they've committed big money to sign defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch and retain defensive end Cliff Avril. They've used the No. 2 overall pick in the draft to select Suh, and the No. 12 overall pick brought them Fairley.
On the other hand, the Lions did use the No. 33 overall pick of the 2009 draft to select safety Louis Delmas. But for the most part, they have cobbled together the secondary with second-tier moves (and players), knowing it would be protected by a more-talented defensive line. It stands to reason that Fairley's emergence in 2012 would only enhance that approach.
Earlier: The Lions have high expectations for Fairley now that he is recovered from a foot injury he originally suffered last summer, despite a recent marijuana charge.
includes Detroit Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley. You'll need an Insider subscription to see the entire file, but here is what Polian wrote about Fairley: Fairley could be the missing piece in making the Detroit defense dominant. If the big Auburn alum can reach his potential, a trio of him, Ndamukong Suh and the emerging Corey Williams could make the Lions' D-line extremely hard to handle up the middle and wreak havoc on the pocket (which will help an improving secondary).
I still think the Lions need more from the running back position to be legitimate title contenders, but if Fairley steps up, an already improved defense will be taken to another level.Fairley
The most interesting part of the choice is that Polian didn't bother suggesting that one of the Lions' defensive backs needs to step it up, whether it's safety Amari Spievey or cornerback Aaron Berry or anyone else who might play a prominent role in improving the team's pass defense. Polian instead focused on the impact of strengthening what is already one of the NFL's more dominant defensive fronts.
That appears to be in line with the Lions' philosophy when you look at how they've focused their roster building in recent years. Over the past three years, they've committed big money to sign defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch and retain defensive end Cliff Avril. They've used the No. 2 overall pick in the draft to select Suh, and the No. 12 overall pick brought them Fairley.
On the other hand, the Lions did use the No. 33 overall pick of the 2009 draft to select safety Louis Delmas. But for the most part, they have cobbled together the secondary with second-tier moves (and players), knowing it would be protected by a more-talented defensive line. It stands to reason that Fairley's emergence in 2012 would only enhance that approach.
Earlier: The Lions have high expectations for Fairley now that he is recovered from a foot injury he originally suffered last summer, despite a recent marijuana charge.
INDIANAPOLIS — It's been fun discussing the idea of the Green Bay Packers using their franchise tag on quarterback Matt Flynn, especially after they signed tight end Jermichael Finley without using the tag on him.
Flynn The opportunity technically will exist until the March 5 deadline, and general manager Ted Thompson refused to rule out the possibility Friday. But I'm totally on board with this post from Jason Wilde of ESPNMilwaukee.com. It continues to be much more likely that Flynn will depart via free agency rather than be tagged as a franchise player and ultimately traded.
Thompson has been involved in with several instances of trading a franchised player, from receiver Joey Galloway when he worked for the Seattle Seahawks in 2000 to former Packers defensive tackle Corey Williams in 2008. But those instances were different. Galloway had been a holdout, and the Packers weren't willing to meet Williams' financial demands for a long-term contract.
Flynn is a longtime backup who projects as a backup for the Packers in 2012 but a possible starter elsewhere. Franchising him would violate the spirit of the NFL's franchise rules, and a source told Wilde: "[The Packers] don't do business that way."
As we've discussed, the Packers would realize a minimal gain and face significant risk if they franchised Flynn. They figure to receive a third-round compensatory pick in 2013 if he departs via free agency, while a trade could bring them a second-round pick.
The Packers would temporarily have to clear $14 million in salary cap space, and they would have to feel confident about their trade prospects will navigating NFL tampering rules that prohibit trade discussions during this time period. Otherwise, they would risk having Flynn stuck on their roster at a salary some $6 million higher than starter Aaron Rodgers.
We've learned our lesson about assuming the Packers' plans and likely path this offseason. Few of us thought a Finley agreement would come early enough to make the Flynn/franchise discussion even a remote possibility. But based on all the evidence, that's all it is: Remote.
Thompson has been involved in with several instances of trading a franchised player, from receiver Joey Galloway when he worked for the Seattle Seahawks in 2000 to former Packers defensive tackle Corey Williams in 2008. But those instances were different. Galloway had been a holdout, and the Packers weren't willing to meet Williams' financial demands for a long-term contract.
Flynn is a longtime backup who projects as a backup for the Packers in 2012 but a possible starter elsewhere. Franchising him would violate the spirit of the NFL's franchise rules, and a source told Wilde: "[The Packers] don't do business that way."
As we've discussed, the Packers would realize a minimal gain and face significant risk if they franchised Flynn. They figure to receive a third-round compensatory pick in 2013 if he departs via free agency, while a trade could bring them a second-round pick.
The Packers would temporarily have to clear $14 million in salary cap space, and they would have to feel confident about their trade prospects will navigating NFL tampering rules that prohibit trade discussions during this time period. Otherwise, they would risk having Flynn stuck on their roster at a salary some $6 million higher than starter Aaron Rodgers.
We've learned our lesson about assuming the Packers' plans and likely path this offseason. Few of us thought a Finley agreement would come early enough to make the Flynn/franchise discussion even a remote possibility. But based on all the evidence, that's all it is: Remote.
The NFC North weekend mailbag returns!
February, 18, 2012
Feb 18
8:00
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
Thanks to everyone who responded to the mailbag request this week. Keep in mind that the best mailbag questions, at least in the mind of the person choosing said questions for publication, have cross-division appeal and usually range in scope beyond simple fact-finding. (Boooring!) Remember, we also tend to have impromptu Q&As on Twitter (@espn_nfcnblog) and on our ranging Facebook page (Kevin Seifert Espn), complete with an awesomely new cover photograph.
Onward…
In his usual diplomatic style, Ben of Denver notes our post on the Minnesota Vikings' plans for the No. 3 overall pick and writes: So I just want to be sure, you would rather have Christian Ponder over Robert Griffin III? (Andrew Luck is going to Indy). The guy who was the best pick in the draft simply because he was a QB taken in the first round, that's the guy you would rather have? Your blind love and endless defense of Ponder since that absurd proclamation entered your mind has been truly funny over the past nearly a full year now, but it has to end. Please.
Kevin Seifert: Shortly after the 2011 draft, I did in fact nominate Ponder as the best pick an NFC North team made. I thought at the time that the Vikings had no choice but to begin the process of finding their next quarterback, and I didn't agree with the idea that they should have waited for a future draft to take a higher-rated prospect. When you're talking about the quarterback position, you throw out conventional draft wisdom if you think you can get someone who can be a consistent starter.
I still think the Vikings made the right decision, but I also have written that Ponder's rookie season was the most disappointing in the division. He'll have an entire offseason to get himself straight and demonstrate why the Vikings went the route they did.
Whether I would pick Griffin this season wasn't the point of the post Ben referred to. All I've said so far is that the Vikings have offered no real indication that they'll consider Griffin, assuming Luck goes No. 1 overall. I haven't made my mind up on whether it would be wise for the Vikings to double up on quarterbacks at this moment. But I promise you, we'll get to that topic over the next few months.
Mike of Atlanta writes: Here's a scenario I haven't really heard anyone talk about: Devin Hester is starting to get up there in years (30 this November). It seems to me that speed is one of those things that drops off faster for players than other attributes that make a player successful in the NFL. The Bears tied up Dave Toub for at least the immediate future, virtually guaranteeing a competitive special teams corps. Wouldn't now be the best time for the Bears to leverage Hester -- who has always underperformed at receiver, which is a position they need to grow at -- to a team that needs a return man, in return for a tight end or a draft pick that could bolster other positions, and use one of their mid-to-late round picks to pick up another speedster?
Kevin Seifert: You're right, Mike. No one has really mentioned that. I have to say I double-checked Hester's birthday to make sure that he will in fact turn 30 during the season. He will. His career has moved quickly.
I think what football people would tell you is that speed is only part of Hester's success. His open-field running skills, his instincts and his innate knowledge of how to set up blocks have all contributed. That's why it's reasonable to believe he'll be really effective for years to come, even if he loses the top end of his speed.
Brian Mitchell, whose return records Hester has broken, was never a speedster. He played until he was 35 years old.
Robin of Chanhassen, Minn., writes: Any possibility the Green Bay Packers surprise us all and go after Cliff Avril?
Kevin Seifert: Any discussion on Avril presumes the Lions decide against using their franchise tag on him and aren't able to get him signed to a long-term deal before free agency opens March 13. And anything connecting the Packers to another team's veteran free agent suggests a reversal of general manager Ted Thompson's recent player acquisition habits.
With those two major caveats, Avril is an intriguing prospect because his size (260 pounds) and athletic ability suggest he could make a successful transition to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. It probably makes more sense to consider him a linebacker in the Packers' scheme than thinking he might bulk up to become a true 3-4 defensive end.
NFL teams rarely allow bona fide pass rushers to reach the open market, and if Avril is available, perhaps that would be enough for Thompson to get involved. The Packers have limited salary cap space this offseason, and they already have significant money tied up in linebackers Desmond Bishop and A.J. Hawk, not to mention the looming extension they'll need to give Clay Matthews in the next year or two.
But Thompson would be well advised to give it careful thought, if nothing else, if he has the opportunity to team Matthews with a pass-rusher of Avril's accomplishments and weaken a division rival at the same time.
John of San Diego writes: Avril: "A lot of teams don't think the Lions will let me hit free agency. But a few teams have called." Did the new CBA do away with tampering?
Kevin Seifert: John accurately pulled that quote from a Detroit Free Press story. Tampering is still against NFL rules. I guess the best way to put it is that we would all be naïve to think it doesn't occur at some level. And usually, what goes around comes around. Avril later clarified his comments to the Free Press, saying other players have heard their coaches say they would like to have a player like him.
Dave of Ithaca, New York, writes: How much cap room do you think the Lions can realistically make in order to try and keep Avril and Stephen Tulloch around? Can they keep them both? Do you foresee any surprise cuts for guys like Corey Williams or Stephen Peterman in order to make it happen?
Kevin Seifert: At last check, the Lions were pretty close to the NFL's projected limit of $120 million for 2012. I have to admit that I don't see how the math works for them to re-sign both Avril and Stephen Tulloch, even if they are able to extend the contract of receiver Calvin Johnson and reduce his cap number for 2012. There will also have to be some combination of roster cuts/restructuring and salary cap tricks, including borrowing from future years.
Williams' name surfaces often as a possible cap casualty, mostly because he's scheduled to earn $5 million in 2012 but also because the Lions drafted a defensive tackle (Nick Fairley) in the first round last year. Williams seems a more likely candidate than Peterman.
Onward…
In his usual diplomatic style, Ben of Denver notes our post on the Minnesota Vikings' plans for the No. 3 overall pick and writes: So I just want to be sure, you would rather have Christian Ponder over Robert Griffin III? (Andrew Luck is going to Indy). The guy who was the best pick in the draft simply because he was a QB taken in the first round, that's the guy you would rather have? Your blind love and endless defense of Ponder since that absurd proclamation entered your mind has been truly funny over the past nearly a full year now, but it has to end. Please.
Kevin Seifert: Shortly after the 2011 draft, I did in fact nominate Ponder as the best pick an NFC North team made. I thought at the time that the Vikings had no choice but to begin the process of finding their next quarterback, and I didn't agree with the idea that they should have waited for a future draft to take a higher-rated prospect. When you're talking about the quarterback position, you throw out conventional draft wisdom if you think you can get someone who can be a consistent starter.
I still think the Vikings made the right decision, but I also have written that Ponder's rookie season was the most disappointing in the division. He'll have an entire offseason to get himself straight and demonstrate why the Vikings went the route they did.
Whether I would pick Griffin this season wasn't the point of the post Ben referred to. All I've said so far is that the Vikings have offered no real indication that they'll consider Griffin, assuming Luck goes No. 1 overall. I haven't made my mind up on whether it would be wise for the Vikings to double up on quarterbacks at this moment. But I promise you, we'll get to that topic over the next few months.
Mike of Atlanta writes: Here's a scenario I haven't really heard anyone talk about: Devin Hester is starting to get up there in years (30 this November). It seems to me that speed is one of those things that drops off faster for players than other attributes that make a player successful in the NFL. The Bears tied up Dave Toub for at least the immediate future, virtually guaranteeing a competitive special teams corps. Wouldn't now be the best time for the Bears to leverage Hester -- who has always underperformed at receiver, which is a position they need to grow at -- to a team that needs a return man, in return for a tight end or a draft pick that could bolster other positions, and use one of their mid-to-late round picks to pick up another speedster?
Kevin Seifert: You're right, Mike. No one has really mentioned that. I have to say I double-checked Hester's birthday to make sure that he will in fact turn 30 during the season. He will. His career has moved quickly.
I think what football people would tell you is that speed is only part of Hester's success. His open-field running skills, his instincts and his innate knowledge of how to set up blocks have all contributed. That's why it's reasonable to believe he'll be really effective for years to come, even if he loses the top end of his speed.
Brian Mitchell, whose return records Hester has broken, was never a speedster. He played until he was 35 years old.
Robin of Chanhassen, Minn., writes: Any possibility the Green Bay Packers surprise us all and go after Cliff Avril?
Kevin Seifert: Any discussion on Avril presumes the Lions decide against using their franchise tag on him and aren't able to get him signed to a long-term deal before free agency opens March 13. And anything connecting the Packers to another team's veteran free agent suggests a reversal of general manager Ted Thompson's recent player acquisition habits.
With those two major caveats, Avril is an intriguing prospect because his size (260 pounds) and athletic ability suggest he could make a successful transition to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. It probably makes more sense to consider him a linebacker in the Packers' scheme than thinking he might bulk up to become a true 3-4 defensive end.
NFL teams rarely allow bona fide pass rushers to reach the open market, and if Avril is available, perhaps that would be enough for Thompson to get involved. The Packers have limited salary cap space this offseason, and they already have significant money tied up in linebackers Desmond Bishop and A.J. Hawk, not to mention the looming extension they'll need to give Clay Matthews in the next year or two.
But Thompson would be well advised to give it careful thought, if nothing else, if he has the opportunity to team Matthews with a pass-rusher of Avril's accomplishments and weaken a division rival at the same time.
John of San Diego writes: Avril: "A lot of teams don't think the Lions will let me hit free agency. But a few teams have called." Did the new CBA do away with tampering?
Kevin Seifert: John accurately pulled that quote from a Detroit Free Press story. Tampering is still against NFL rules. I guess the best way to put it is that we would all be naïve to think it doesn't occur at some level. And usually, what goes around comes around. Avril later clarified his comments to the Free Press, saying other players have heard their coaches say they would like to have a player like him.
Dave of Ithaca, New York, writes: How much cap room do you think the Lions can realistically make in order to try and keep Avril and Stephen Tulloch around? Can they keep them both? Do you foresee any surprise cuts for guys like Corey Williams or Stephen Peterman in order to make it happen?
Kevin Seifert: At last check, the Lions were pretty close to the NFL's projected limit of $120 million for 2012. I have to admit that I don't see how the math works for them to re-sign both Avril and Stephen Tulloch, even if they are able to extend the contract of receiver Calvin Johnson and reduce his cap number for 2012. There will also have to be some combination of roster cuts/restructuring and salary cap tricks, including borrowing from future years.
Williams' name surfaces often as a possible cap casualty, mostly because he's scheduled to earn $5 million in 2012 but also because the Lions drafted a defensive tackle (Nick Fairley) in the first round last year. Williams seems a more likely candidate than Peterman.
Finally: Your 2011 All-NFC North team
February, 7, 2012
Feb 7
4:30
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
Getty ImagesCalvin Johnson, left, and Aaron Rodgers were easy picks for the All-NFC North team.Via Twitter, @jpberthiaume asked: "Do people really care about these 'teams?'" I guess it's a fair point. I doubt few, if any, of the players listed in the chart wrote a fifth-grade essay about their plans to one day make the All-NFC North team on ESPN.com, even if it was only because the NFC North hadn't yet been formed in those days and ESPN.com was operating out of a Bristol-based closet.
So I'll let you be the judge. This is annually a fun exercise, even if it doesn't lead to a deep understanding of the human condition or even reveal any breakthroughs about the just-completed season. If nothing else, it offers us a blank template to recognize the best-performing players in the division without the hindrance of the politics and reputation.
Some notes on some of the tight decisions, for which I seriously received input from multiple angles:
- One of the fiercest debates came at wide receiver. Everyone agreed that the Detroit Lions' Calvin Johnson deserved one spot, but there was a split about the other two. Did the Green Bay Packers' Greg Jennings, who missed three games because of a knee injury, deserve an automatic bid? And if he did, should the Packers' Jordy Nelson or the Minnesota Vikings' Percy Harvin get the third spot? I thought Jennings' 67 receptions, 949 yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games merited a spot. And ultimately I chose Nelson over Harvin. I realize Harvin caught 87 passes in a punchless offense and added 345 rushing yards to his total, but in the end I couldn't overlook a player who scored more touchdowns (15) than all but four players in the NFL this season. Plus, as Hatterbot pointed out: "Rushing yards don't count in the WR category."
- I went with the Lions' Rob Sims at left guard in part on the advice of John McTigue of ESPN Stats & Information, who noted that Sims was the only NFC North left guard to play the position for 16 games this season. Sims also had the best pass-sack ratio (19.7 passes per sack) of the group, based on video study.
- There is no doubt that the Lions' Brandon Pettigrew (83 catches) had a more productive season then the Packers' Jermichael Finley (55). But the Lions often used Pettigrew as a substitute for their punchless running game, and that's why his per-catch average of 9.4 yards was lower than any other tight end with at least 30 catches. According to ESPN Stats & Information, the average pass to Pettigrew this season traveled 6.5 yards in the air. The average pass to Finley traveled 11.4 yards. Finley caught five passes of at least 30 yards. Pettigrew's longest was 27. Both players had their share of drops, combining for a total of 15, but I thought Finley made a bigger impact on his catches than Pettigrew did.
- I really debated the Bears' Julius Peppers and the Lions' Cliff Avril at defensive end. Avril (11.5) had a half-sack more than Peppers (11) and forced twice as many fumbles. But one of the advantages we have on this team is investigating beyond the conventional numbers. Our friends at Pro Football Focus (PFF) credited Peppers with 53 quarterback pressures, the second-highest total in the NFL. Avril ranked No. 8 with 37, but in a close race, I chose the maximum mumber of plays impacted over Avril's slight edge in "playmaking" statistics.
- I used a similar approach in choosing the Vikings' Kevin Williams and the Lions' Ndamukong Suh as my defensive tackles. It's true that the Bears' Henry Melton led the NFC North's defensive tackles with seven pressures, but PFF had Suh with 27 quarterback pressures, an NFL high for an interior lineman. Williams tied for No. 3 with 25. Melton wasn't that far behind at 23, but I also took into account that the Bears nearly benched him for inconsistency at one point in the season. (Coach Lovie Smith in November: "He hasn't showed up as much. Whether teams have adjusted to him or whatever, we need to get more production from him because he's capable of it." Meanwhile, I thought Packers defensive lineman B.J. Raji took a step backward in 2011. PFF credited him with only 10 stops (the cumulative number of plays made that constitute an offensive failure) in 842 snaps.
- If you want to say I chickened out at linebacker, go ahead. I originally left open the middle and one of the outside spots, but in the end I went with our division standbys: Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs. For starters, Briggs was one of six non-offensive linemen to play 100 percent of his team's snaps in the NFL this season. There's something to be said for being available to your team. And while I do think that the Packers' Desmond Bishop and the Lions' Stephen Tulloch had good seasons, I couldn't find a statistic or an opinion that convinced me they were better than Urlacher. Someday, there will be turnover among NFC North linebackers. But it didn't happen this season.
- Safety play was poor throughout the NFC North, so I'm not at all ashamed to have chosen a third cornerback to replace one of the safeties on this team. It came down to the Lions' Chris Houston and the Packers' Tramon Williams. Both had their ups and downs in coverage. Houston had five interceptions and two touchdowns in 14 games, while Williams had four interceptions and one touchdown in 15 games. In the end, I chose Williams because I think it was pretty clear he was pushing through a really limiting shoulder injury for much of the first half of the season.
- I chose the Packers' specialists, kicker Mason Crosby and punter Tim Masthay. Crosby converted 24 of 28 kicks, including a 58-yarder, and ranked third in the NFL with 49 touchbacks. Masthay downed a division-high 23 punts inside the 20-yard line despite a division-low 55 punts.
- I mistakenly left off a coverage specialist from our original post. There should be no debating that the Bears' Corey Graham deserves that spot.
- Go ahead. Rip away....
Lions-Saints: Nearly all hands on deck
January, 6, 2012
Jan 6
5:20
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
FROM THE VAST NORTH AMERICAN TRANSIT SYSTEM -- As I make my way down to New Orleans, I figured I'd check in and let you know that the Detroit Lions are as healthy as they've been in some time as Saturday night's wild-card game against the Saints approaches.
It looks like only one player, reserve safety Chris Harris, might not be available for the game. Harris hasn't practiced since Wednesday because of a back injury and is listed on the Lions' final injury report as doubtful.
All other players are either probable or not listed at all. That includes safety Louis Delmas (knee), who hasn't played since Thanksgiving Day, and nose tackle Corey Williams, who missed last week's game against the Green Bay Packers because of a hip injury.
For the Saints, receiver Lance Moore (hamstring) won't play.
It looks like only one player, reserve safety Chris Harris, might not be available for the game. Harris hasn't practiced since Wednesday because of a back injury and is listed on the Lions' final injury report as doubtful.
All other players are either probable or not listed at all. That includes safety Louis Delmas (knee), who hasn't played since Thanksgiving Day, and nose tackle Corey Williams, who missed last week's game against the Green Bay Packers because of a hip injury.
For the Saints, receiver Lance Moore (hamstring) won't play.
Sifting through Wednesday's newsbits in the NFC North:
Chicago Bears: Running back Marion Barber (calf), tight end Kellen Davis (illness), defensive end Julius Peppers (not injury related) and linebacker Brian Urlacher (knee) did not practice. Barber doesn't seem likely to play Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. Meanwhile, coach Lovie Smith was angered by questions about the future of offensive coordinator Mike Martz and wouldn't answer. Martz's contract expires after this season.
Detroit Lions: Cornerback Chris Houston was wearing a cast on his left hand but told reporters he injured his pinky finger and does not have a fracture. Hmmmm. Coach Jim Schwartz said it wasn't a long-term injury. Houston, safety Louis Delmas (knee), receiver Calvin Johnson (Achilles), defensive tackle Corey Williams (hip) and defensive end Willie Young (ankle) did not practice.
Green Bay Packers: Tight end Jermichael Finley reported knee soreness Wednesday and did not participate in practice. Neither did offensive lineman Bryan Bulaga (knee), receiver Randall Cobb (groin) nor running back James Starks (knee/ankle). Receiver Greg Jennings ran on the side during practice but was declared out for Sunday's game against the Lions. Offensive lineman Chad Clifton (hamstring/back) practiced. So did defensive lineman Ryan Pickett, who has been cleared after suffering a concussion earlier this month.
Minnesota Vikings: Quarterback Christian Ponder (concussion) was cleared to practice after and will start Sunday against the Bears, according to coach Leslie Frazier. Left guard Steve Hutchinson, who was placed on injured reserve this week because of a concussion, will "have some decisions he'll have to make after this season is over," according to coach Leslie Frazier. That suggests retirement could be an option.
Chicago Bears: Running back Marion Barber (calf), tight end Kellen Davis (illness), defensive end Julius Peppers (not injury related) and linebacker Brian Urlacher (knee) did not practice. Barber doesn't seem likely to play Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. Meanwhile, coach Lovie Smith was angered by questions about the future of offensive coordinator Mike Martz and wouldn't answer. Martz's contract expires after this season.
Detroit Lions: Cornerback Chris Houston was wearing a cast on his left hand but told reporters he injured his pinky finger and does not have a fracture. Hmmmm. Coach Jim Schwartz said it wasn't a long-term injury. Houston, safety Louis Delmas (knee), receiver Calvin Johnson (Achilles), defensive tackle Corey Williams (hip) and defensive end Willie Young (ankle) did not practice.
Green Bay Packers: Tight end Jermichael Finley reported knee soreness Wednesday and did not participate in practice. Neither did offensive lineman Bryan Bulaga (knee), receiver Randall Cobb (groin) nor running back James Starks (knee/ankle). Receiver Greg Jennings ran on the side during practice but was declared out for Sunday's game against the Lions. Offensive lineman Chad Clifton (hamstring/back) practiced. So did defensive lineman Ryan Pickett, who has been cleared after suffering a concussion earlier this month.
Minnesota Vikings: Quarterback Christian Ponder (concussion) was cleared to practice after and will start Sunday against the Bears, according to coach Leslie Frazier. Left guard Steve Hutchinson, who was placed on injured reserve this week because of a concussion, will "have some decisions he'll have to make after this season is over," according to coach Leslie Frazier. That suggests retirement could be an option.
Taking a look at Wednesday's newsbits in the NFC North:
Chicago Bears: A high number of prominent players didn't practice Wednesday. The list included running back Marion Barber (calf), linebacker Lance Briggs (ankle), tight end Kellen Davis (back), receiver Devin Hester (ankle), defensive tackle Henry Melton (shin) and defensive end Julius Peppers (not injury related). Melton doesn't appear to have a great chance to play Sunday night against the Green Bay Packers.
Detroit Lions: Safety Louis Delmas (knee), defensive tackle Corey Williams (hip), right tackle Gosder Cherilus and defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch (neck) didn't practice. It doesn't appear that Delmas will be ready for Saturday's game against the San Diego Chargers.
Green Bay Packers: Left tackle Chad Clifton finally returned to practice Wednesday but it's almost impossible to imagine him playing Sunday against the Bears. Instead, T.J. Lang is likely to start at right tackle with Evan Dietrich-Smith at Lang's left guard spot. The healthy backups will be Ray Dominguez and newcomer Herb Taylor. Running back James Starks practice an could be on track to play Sunday. Running back Brandon Saine (concussion) also practiced, as did linebacker Desmond Bishop (calf). Defensive end Ryan Pickett (concussion) did not.
Minnesota Vikings: Cornerback Asher Allen and guard Steve Hutchinson both sat out practice Wednesday because of concussions. Joe Berger would start for Hutchinson if he can't play Saturday against the Washington Redskins.
Chicago Bears: A high number of prominent players didn't practice Wednesday. The list included running back Marion Barber (calf), linebacker Lance Briggs (ankle), tight end Kellen Davis (back), receiver Devin Hester (ankle), defensive tackle Henry Melton (shin) and defensive end Julius Peppers (not injury related). Melton doesn't appear to have a great chance to play Sunday night against the Green Bay Packers.
Detroit Lions: Safety Louis Delmas (knee), defensive tackle Corey Williams (hip), right tackle Gosder Cherilus and defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch (neck) didn't practice. It doesn't appear that Delmas will be ready for Saturday's game against the San Diego Chargers.
Green Bay Packers: Left tackle Chad Clifton finally returned to practice Wednesday but it's almost impossible to imagine him playing Sunday against the Bears. Instead, T.J. Lang is likely to start at right tackle with Evan Dietrich-Smith at Lang's left guard spot. The healthy backups will be Ray Dominguez and newcomer Herb Taylor. Running back James Starks practice an could be on track to play Sunday. Running back Brandon Saine (concussion) also practiced, as did linebacker Desmond Bishop (calf). Defensive end Ryan Pickett (concussion) did not.
Minnesota Vikings: Cornerback Asher Allen and guard Steve Hutchinson both sat out practice Wednesday because of concussions. Joe Berger would start for Hutchinson if he can't play Saturday against the Washington Redskins.
So, about that Lions-Saints matchup ...
December, 2, 2011
12/02/11
10:50
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
Some of you were upset this week as our focus on the Detroit Lions centered around the suspension of defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh. Via Twitter, @niknicaj wrote: "How about you stop posting articles about Suh and post some about this big game ahead. I'm sick of hearing about Suh."
I understand the desire to move on, but I also caution you to be careful what you wish for. Let's just say the Lions will face a steep challenge in Sunday night's nationally televised game at the New Orleans Saints.
The Saints are 5-0 at home this season and have scored at least 40 points in three of those games. Overall, they've outscored opponents 208-93 at the Superdome, and the Lions will face them with three defensive starters expected to be sidelined.
In addition to Suh, the Lions have practiced all week without safety Louis Delmas (knee) and cornerback Chris Houston (knee). All told, their absences could force a significant shift in the Lions' defensive philosophy.
To this point, the Lions have been one of the NFL's least aggressive defensive teams when it comes to the blitz. With Suh leading a powerful defensive line, the Lions have been able to field the league's sixth-ranked pass defense despite rushing four or fewer men on 79.3 percent of opponent's dropbacks. Their blitz percentage of 20.7 is the third-lowest in the NFL.
Every NFL team would love to rely on their defensive line to that extent, thereby maximizing the players devoted to coverage. But without Suh, and especially against Saints quarterback Drew Brees, the Lions might have to change their approach.
Suh has a modest three sacks this season, but he has drawn substantial attention away from the rest of the Lions' defensive linemen. Kyle Vanden Bosch, Cliff Avril, Corey Williams and Nick Fairley are no slouches, but they will face less favorable matchups at times Sunday night.
And as the chart shows, Brees has torn up teams this season that have tried to sit back in coverage. The Lions will not only face a stiff opponent Sunday night, but they'll also be forced out of their defensive comfort zone. It will be a tough assignment, to say the least.
I understand the desire to move on, but I also caution you to be careful what you wish for. Let's just say the Lions will face a steep challenge in Sunday night's nationally televised game at the New Orleans Saints.
The Saints are 5-0 at home this season and have scored at least 40 points in three of those games. Overall, they've outscored opponents 208-93 at the Superdome, and the Lions will face them with three defensive starters expected to be sidelined.
In addition to Suh, the Lions have practiced all week without safety Louis Delmas (knee) and cornerback Chris Houston (knee). All told, their absences could force a significant shift in the Lions' defensive philosophy.
To this point, the Lions have been one of the NFL's least aggressive defensive teams when it comes to the blitz. With Suh leading a powerful defensive line, the Lions have been able to field the league's sixth-ranked pass defense despite rushing four or fewer men on 79.3 percent of opponent's dropbacks. Their blitz percentage of 20.7 is the third-lowest in the NFL.
Every NFL team would love to rely on their defensive line to that extent, thereby maximizing the players devoted to coverage. But without Suh, and especially against Saints quarterback Drew Brees, the Lions might have to change their approach.
Suh has a modest three sacks this season, but he has drawn substantial attention away from the rest of the Lions' defensive linemen. Kyle Vanden Bosch, Cliff Avril, Corey Williams and Nick Fairley are no slouches, but they will face less favorable matchups at times Sunday night.
And as the chart shows, Brees has torn up teams this season that have tried to sit back in coverage. The Lions will not only face a stiff opponent Sunday night, but they'll also be forced out of their defensive comfort zone. It will be a tough assignment, to say the least.
Jim Schwartz on Suh and accountability
November, 29, 2011
11/29/11
5:41
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
I don't often post raw transcripts of daily interview sessions with NFC North players and coaches, but Tuesday marked the first time Detroit Lions coach Jim Schwartz has extensively addressed the ejection and suspension of defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh. Speaking to Detroit-area reporters, Schwartz made clear he disapproved of Suh's actions and reactions to the events of Thursday. Schwartz took ultimate responsibility for the episode and said all concerned parties would be held accountable.
Here are the relevant questions and answers, courtesy the Lions' public relations staff:
On how he feels about Suh's suspension and if he will appeal
Jim Schwartz: "You know, the appeal is part of the player's process and that's outlined in the CBA and you know, the NFLPA, the player's agent, and stuff like that. That's not really a team issue. It obviously affects the team, but it's really not a team issue, so I really can’t comment on that.
"But, obviously, it hurts to lose any player for two games, much less a player like Ndamukong Suh. But there's accountability for our actions, you know, and that's a situation where something happened after the whistle.
"We want to be as tough and as physical and play as hard as we can between the snap and the whistle, but anything that happens after that -- we put our team in a bad position, we got to pay the consequences for and that's the position that we're in right now. That being said, we do have depth at [the] defensive tackle position. Nick Fairley is playing very well, as is Sammie Hill, and Corey Williams is probably playing the best football of his career, so we're going to be just fine."
"That’s part of not having players, whether it's from an injury, which we have some injury situations, or a situation like this. We'll get through it as a team, and when we get him back, we'll get back into the swing of things with him."
On if Suh is remorseful
JS: "I think I'll let him speak for himself when he gets that opportunity, but I have had a lot of conversations with him the last two days and I think he is in a different spot. You know, this is a very emotional game. There are a lot of things that happen on the field and a lot of things that maybe look different to us when we see them on film than we remembered them on the field. It happens to coaches, happens to players. But after the emotions die down and things like that, maybe you see things in a little different way.
"I don't want to speak for him, but ... I think his No. 1 thing is he didn't want to be a distraction for the team. He wanted the team to be able to focus on the Saints and then he wants to be accountable for his actions and get back on the field as quick as he can."
Here are the relevant questions and answers, courtesy the Lions' public relations staff:
On how he feels about Suh's suspension and if he will appeal
Jim Schwartz: "You know, the appeal is part of the player's process and that's outlined in the CBA and you know, the NFLPA, the player's agent, and stuff like that. That's not really a team issue. It obviously affects the team, but it's really not a team issue, so I really can’t comment on that.
"But, obviously, it hurts to lose any player for two games, much less a player like Ndamukong Suh. But there's accountability for our actions, you know, and that's a situation where something happened after the whistle.
"We want to be as tough and as physical and play as hard as we can between the snap and the whistle, but anything that happens after that -- we put our team in a bad position, we got to pay the consequences for and that's the position that we're in right now. That being said, we do have depth at [the] defensive tackle position. Nick Fairley is playing very well, as is Sammie Hill, and Corey Williams is probably playing the best football of his career, so we're going to be just fine."
"That’s part of not having players, whether it's from an injury, which we have some injury situations, or a situation like this. We'll get through it as a team, and when we get him back, we'll get back into the swing of things with him."
On if Suh is remorseful
JS: "I think I'll let him speak for himself when he gets that opportunity, but I have had a lot of conversations with him the last two days and I think he is in a different spot. You know, this is a very emotional game. There are a lot of things that happen on the field and a lot of things that maybe look different to us when we see them on film than we remembered them on the field. It happens to coaches, happens to players. But after the emotions die down and things like that, maybe you see things in a little different way.
"I don't want to speak for him, but ... I think his No. 1 thing is he didn't want to be a distraction for the team. He wanted the team to be able to focus on the Saints and then he wants to be accountable for his actions and get back on the field as quick as he can."
Hitting a few of Wednesday's news tidbits before heading to the airport:
Chicago Bears: We already got you up to date on the acquisition of quarterback Josh McCown. Cornerback D.J. Moore (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. Safety Brandon Meriweather (concussion) was limited.
Detroit Lions: Reserve defensive end Lawrence Jackson (thigh) is doubtful for Thursday's game. Defensive tackle Corey Williams (calf) is listed as questionable but told reporters this week he plans to play. Defensive end Willie Young (ankle) is questionable but is expected to play. The only players ruled out are running back Jahvid Best (concussion) and punter Ryan Donahue (quadriceps).
Green Bay Packers: As we noted earlier, running back James Starks (knee/ankle) is questionable and left tackle Chad Clifton (hamstring) is out. All other players should be available Thursday.
Minnesota Vikings: Tailback Adrian Peterson (ankle) was one of four players who didn't practice Wednesday. Coach Leslie Frazier said the team won't try to test Peterson in practice until Friday at the earliest. Safety Husain Abdullah (concussion), tight end Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) and tight end Kyle Rudolph (quadriceps) also missed practice. The Vikings might need to promote practice squad tight end Allen Reisner because of the Shiancoe and Rudolph injuries.
Chicago Bears: We already got you up to date on the acquisition of quarterback Josh McCown. Cornerback D.J. Moore (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. Safety Brandon Meriweather (concussion) was limited.
Detroit Lions: Reserve defensive end Lawrence Jackson (thigh) is doubtful for Thursday's game. Defensive tackle Corey Williams (calf) is listed as questionable but told reporters this week he plans to play. Defensive end Willie Young (ankle) is questionable but is expected to play. The only players ruled out are running back Jahvid Best (concussion) and punter Ryan Donahue (quadriceps).
Green Bay Packers: As we noted earlier, running back James Starks (knee/ankle) is questionable and left tackle Chad Clifton (hamstring) is out. All other players should be available Thursday.
Minnesota Vikings: Tailback Adrian Peterson (ankle) was one of four players who didn't practice Wednesday. Coach Leslie Frazier said the team won't try to test Peterson in practice until Friday at the earliest. Safety Husain Abdullah (concussion), tight end Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) and tight end Kyle Rudolph (quadriceps) also missed practice. The Vikings might need to promote practice squad tight end Allen Reisner because of the Shiancoe and Rudolph injuries.
Let's review a few news tidbits on a Tuesday that is more like a Thursday and Friday for half of our division:
Chicago Bears: We've already reviewed the latest turn in the Bears' quarterback soap opera this week. We'll know if they've claimed and/or been awarded quarterback Kyle Orton at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday. Earlier, ESPNChicago.com reported that starter Jay Cutler will undergo surgery on his right thumb Wednesday in Vail, Colo.
Detroit Lions: Tailback Kevin Smith, two weeks removed from his return to the NFL, appears on track to regain his starting job Thursday against the Green Bay Packers. Chris McCosky of the Detroit News reports that Smith was working with the first-team offense Tuesday in practice. Receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle), defensive tackle Corey Williams (calf) and defensive end Lawrence Jackson (thigh) did not practice. Johnson and Williams are expected to play Thursday. Running back Jahvid Best (concussion) and punter Ryan Donahue (quadriceps) are expected to be out.
Green Bay Packers: Running back James Starks (knee/ankle) participated in a limited portion of practice. It's still not clear if he'll be able to play Thursday against the Lions. Receiver Greg Jennings (knee) was a limited participant in practice but should play. Linebacker Frank Zombo (hamstring) was a full participant.
Minnesota Vikings: In a court appearance Tuesday, cornerback Chris Cook's attorney said he plans to argue self-defense against charges of felony strangulation and assault after an incident with his girlfriend. The attorney said the victim has recanted part of her story, namely that Cook tried to strangle her. The trial was scheduled for March.
Chicago Bears: We've already reviewed the latest turn in the Bears' quarterback soap opera this week. We'll know if they've claimed and/or been awarded quarterback Kyle Orton at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday. Earlier, ESPNChicago.com reported that starter Jay Cutler will undergo surgery on his right thumb Wednesday in Vail, Colo.
Detroit Lions: Tailback Kevin Smith, two weeks removed from his return to the NFL, appears on track to regain his starting job Thursday against the Green Bay Packers. Chris McCosky of the Detroit News reports that Smith was working with the first-team offense Tuesday in practice. Receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle), defensive tackle Corey Williams (calf) and defensive end Lawrence Jackson (thigh) did not practice. Johnson and Williams are expected to play Thursday. Running back Jahvid Best (concussion) and punter Ryan Donahue (quadriceps) are expected to be out.
Green Bay Packers: Running back James Starks (knee/ankle) participated in a limited portion of practice. It's still not clear if he'll be able to play Thursday against the Lions. Receiver Greg Jennings (knee) was a limited participant in practice but should play. Linebacker Frank Zombo (hamstring) was a full participant.
Minnesota Vikings: In a court appearance Tuesday, cornerback Chris Cook's attorney said he plans to argue self-defense against charges of felony strangulation and assault after an incident with his girlfriend. The attorney said the victim has recanted part of her story, namely that Cook tried to strangle her. The trial was scheduled for March.
Getting inside the Friday injury report:
Chicago Bears: Nickel back D.J. Moore (ankle) is doubtful for Sunday's game and isn't expected to play against the San Diego Chargers. Corey Graham will be the nickel back. All other players should be available.
Detroit Lions: Punter Ryan Donahue (quadriceps) was ruled out, confirming that newcomer Ben Graham will punt Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. Safety Amari Spievey (toe) is probable and expected to play. The Lions could be thin on the defensive line, based on the availability of defensive ends Willie Young (ankle) and Lawrence Jackson (thigh). Both are listed as questionable.
Green Bay Packers: The only injury issue this week has been defensive end Mike Neal (knee), who made it through portions of all three practices. The Packers are listing him as questionable for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, an encouraging sign. Even if he doesn't play this week, it appears Neal hasn't had any setbacks to prevent an imminent return.
Minnesota Vikings: Guard Anthony Herrera (knee) and safety Husain Abdullah (concussion ) were ruled out for Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders. Joe Berger will again start at right guard, and it's expected the Vikings will use a three-man rotation at safety between Jamarca Sanford, Tyrell Johnson and rookie Mistral Raymond. Meanwhile, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) is questionable, as is linebacker Erin Henderson (hamstring). Kyle Rudolph and Kenny Onatolu, respectively, could see additional playing time Sunday.
Chicago Bears: Nickel back D.J. Moore (ankle) is doubtful for Sunday's game and isn't expected to play against the San Diego Chargers. Corey Graham will be the nickel back. All other players should be available.
Detroit Lions: Punter Ryan Donahue (quadriceps) was ruled out, confirming that newcomer Ben Graham will punt Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. Safety Amari Spievey (toe) is probable and expected to play. The Lions could be thin on the defensive line, based on the availability of defensive ends Willie Young (ankle) and Lawrence Jackson (thigh). Both are listed as questionable.
Green Bay Packers: The only injury issue this week has been defensive end Mike Neal (knee), who made it through portions of all three practices. The Packers are listing him as questionable for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, an encouraging sign. Even if he doesn't play this week, it appears Neal hasn't had any setbacks to prevent an imminent return.
Minnesota Vikings: Guard Anthony Herrera (knee) and safety Husain Abdullah (concussion ) were ruled out for Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders. Joe Berger will again start at right guard, and it's expected the Vikings will use a three-man rotation at safety between Jamarca Sanford, Tyrell Johnson and rookie Mistral Raymond. Meanwhile, tight end Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) is questionable, as is linebacker Erin Henderson (hamstring). Kyle Rudolph and Kenny Onatolu, respectively, could see additional playing time Sunday.
BBAO: Kevin Williams must 'work for free'
September, 5, 2011
9/05/11
10:45
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
We're Black and Blue All Over:
The NFC North will hum along Monday, Labor Day or not, so why not join us for the ride? We'll start by catching up on a series of interviews that Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams conducted over the weekend in response to his two-game NFL suspension that begins this week.
Williams termed it "unbelievable" that the NFL added a two-game fine on top of the suspension, bringing his total bill to $1.4 million. Speaking to Judd Zulgad of 1500ESPN.com, Williams added: "At the end of the day, you can say from the outside that they cut us a break [by reducing the suspension from four games to two games.] But you look close, they're not putting that out there for the public to see that we're still going to get fined four games. Who wants to work for free?"
I can see where Williams is coming from. If the NFL wanted to keep in place the four-game fine Williams was originally on the hook for, it should have based on the total on his 2008 base salary ($1 million) rather than his 2011 total ($6 million). And tacking on the additional fine allows him to play an extra two games, but he won't be paid for them. In the end, however, Williams took a chance on the terms of his discipline changing when he mounted a 2 1/2-year legal challenge.
The NFL could have been more lenient, but I'm guessing it wanted to make clear that any future challenge to its discipline program will be dealt with in a similarly hard-edged manner.
Continuing around the NFC North:
The NFC North will hum along Monday, Labor Day or not, so why not join us for the ride? We'll start by catching up on a series of interviews that Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams conducted over the weekend in response to his two-game NFL suspension that begins this week.
Williams termed it "unbelievable" that the NFL added a two-game fine on top of the suspension, bringing his total bill to $1.4 million. Speaking to Judd Zulgad of 1500ESPN.com, Williams added: "At the end of the day, you can say from the outside that they cut us a break [by reducing the suspension from four games to two games.] But you look close, they're not putting that out there for the public to see that we're still going to get fined four games. Who wants to work for free?"
I can see where Williams is coming from. If the NFL wanted to keep in place the four-game fine Williams was originally on the hook for, it should have based on the total on his 2008 base salary ($1 million) rather than his 2011 total ($6 million). And tacking on the additional fine allows him to play an extra two games, but he won't be paid for them. In the end, however, Williams took a chance on the terms of his discipline changing when he mounted a 2 1/2-year legal challenge.
The NFL could have been more lenient, but I'm guessing it wanted to make clear that any future challenge to its discipline program will be dealt with in a similarly hard-edged manner.
Continuing around the NFC North:
- The Vikings released rookie tight end Allen Reisner to make room for linebacker Xavier Adibi, who was claimed Sunday on waivers, notes Zulgad.
- It looks like Jamarca Sanford has an edge over Tyrell Johnson to be the Vikings' starting strong safety, writes Myron P. Medcalf of the Star Tribune.
- Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel examines the Green Bay Packers' no-huddle offense. Silverstein: "There's a chance the Green Bay Packers won't play any no-huddle offense against the New Orleans Saints on Thursday night. And there's a chance that they will. Whatever the case, the purpose in using so much of the no-huddle scheme had more to do with coach Mike McCarthy's concern about a slow offensive start than any game-plan feature for the Saints game."
- The Packers are hoping to have rookie Randall Cobb available, at least as a punt returner, for Thursday night's game. Jason Wilde of ESPNMilwaukee.com has more.
- The Packers have a deep challenge with the Saints' offense, writes Pete Dougherty of the Green Bay Press-Gazette.
- The Chicago Bears will also have their hands full in Week 1 with the Atlanta Falcons offense, notes Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.
- The Bears upgraded their depth, if nothing else, by signing safety Brandon Meriweather, writes Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times.
- Kudos to Detroit Lions defensive tackle Corey Williams for encouraging his teammates to stop trash talking, via Carlos Monarrez of the Detroit Free Press: "We don't have time for that. We ain't got time for all that arguing back and forth. We ain't going to do no talking with our mouths. We're going to do it with our play, and I think that's one of the things we should have worked on more last year. Anybody can talk. You can say anything. But can you back it up? And that's what we're about showing. We ain't about doing no talking no more. Talking is over with."
- Few people realize how productive Lions defensive end Lawrence Jackson was last season, writes Chris McCosky of the Detroit News.
- For those keeping up at home, Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew has changed his number to 87, notes Philip Zaroo of Mlive.com.
BBAO: Key number in Matt Forte talks
September, 1, 2011
9/01/11
7:30
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
We're Black and Blue All Over:
On Wednesday, we discussed the Chicago Bears' negotiations with tailback Matt Forte in the context of other deals that have been reached around the NFL. Most recently, the San Francisco 49ers agreed on a three-year extension with tailback Frank Gore. The deal is worth $21 million and includes $13.5 million in guarantees.
How do the Bears value Forte, and how does he value himself? Michael C. Wright of ESPNChicago.com gives us a glimpse by reporting the team has offered a deal that includes about $15 million guaranteed. Unknown at this point is how many years the Bears are offering; generally speaking, more years equals more guaranteed money.
The only urgency for either side to strike a deal at this point is that Forte's value could change once the regular season begins. An injury could lower his value, while some monster games could increase the commitment the Bears will need to make in order to secure him. I guess there is a concern about the distraction of negotiations during the regular season, but to me it's a positive to have a player motivated by as many factors as possible.
Continuing around the NFC North:
On Wednesday, we discussed the Chicago Bears' negotiations with tailback Matt Forte in the context of other deals that have been reached around the NFL. Most recently, the San Francisco 49ers agreed on a three-year extension with tailback Frank Gore. The deal is worth $21 million and includes $13.5 million in guarantees.
How do the Bears value Forte, and how does he value himself? Michael C. Wright of ESPNChicago.com gives us a glimpse by reporting the team has offered a deal that includes about $15 million guaranteed. Unknown at this point is how many years the Bears are offering; generally speaking, more years equals more guaranteed money.
The only urgency for either side to strike a deal at this point is that Forte's value could change once the regular season begins. An injury could lower his value, while some monster games could increase the commitment the Bears will need to make in order to secure him. I guess there is a concern about the distraction of negotiations during the regular season, but to me it's a positive to have a player motivated by as many factors as possible.
Continuing around the NFC North:
- Few Bears starters are expected to play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Cleveland Browns, according to Wright.
- The Bears have received a roster exemption for running back Harvey Unga, who has taken an extended leave of absence, according to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times.
- The Bears aren't concerned about a lack of pass rush this summer, writes Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.
- The Ramsey (Minn.) County Charter Commission will hold two public hearings and then decide whether to call a voter referendum on the Minnesota Vikings' stadium proposal. Rochelle Olson of the Star Tribune has more.
- Vikings linebacker Jasper Brinkley has undergone hip surgery, according to Dave Campbell of the Associated Press.
- Vikings rookie quarterback Christian Ponder has been a work in progress this summer, writes Tom Pelissero of 1500ESPN.com.
- Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel examines a glaring mistake Green Bay Packers safety Morgan Burnett made in last Friday's preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts.
- Kareem Copeland of the Green Bay Press-Gazette looks at some of the players on the bubble entering Thursday night's preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
- Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers will play a series at most and might not play at all Thursday night, writes Jason Wilde of ESPNMilwaukee.com.
- Most Detroit Lions starters will play briefly Thursday night against the Buffalo Bills, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.
- Detroit Lions president Tom Lewand, via Rod Beard of the Detroit News: "We've never had [10] guys that all 31 teams would trade their eye tooth for and we wouldn't give up for anything. That tells you something about where we've been, but more importantly, where we're going."
- Lions defensive tackle Corey Williams had a brutal but completely legal hit on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady last weekend, notes Philip Zaroo of Mlive.com.
Lions holding breath on Nick Fairley injury
August, 2, 2011
8/02/11
5:43
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
The Detroit Lions already are dealing with significant injuries to left tackle Jeff Backus (pectoral) and, to a lesser extent, cornerback Alphonso Smith (broken foot). We might soon need to put rookie rookie defensive tackle Nick Fairley on that list.
Fairley injured his left foot during Monday's practice and wore a stabilizing boot while watching Tuesday's practice, according to Philip Zaroo of Mlive.com. Coach Jim Schwartz said Monday that X-rays were "negative," but on Tuesday, Schwartz said the medical evaluation of Fairley's injury wasn't complete.
"We're still doing some tests on him and having a lot of different people look at his stuff," Schwartz said, according to a team release. "But he's down for now and we'll see what happens."
There are plenty of serious injuries that can go undetected in a standard X-ray, but there is no sense speculating at this point. But if "a lot of different people" are looking at Fairley's test results, it's reasonable to assume this injury could develop into a significant story.
Defensive line is the Lions' deepest position, and even without Fairley, they could rotate Ndamukong Suh, Corey Williams and Sammie Hill at the position. But the Lions hoped Fairley would help elevate a really good defensive line to an elite level. Whether they will have that opportunity remains to be seen.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Kevin Seifert
Seifert joined ESPN.com in 2008 after covering the Minnesota Vikings for the Minneapolis Star Tribune for eight years. He lives in the Twin Cities with his wife and children.
