NFC North: Craig Steltz
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Chicago Bears
Key additions: Running back Michael Bush, linebacker/special teams Blake Costanzo, quarterback Jason Campbell, receiver Brandon Marshall (trade), receiver Devin Thomas, receiver/returner Eric Weems.
Key losses: Running back Marion Barber (retired), cornerback Zack Bowman, cornerback Corey Graham.
Come on back: Lost in the shuffle of the Marshall trade were the return of three free agents who should play key roles in 2012. Tight end Kellen Davis figures to get an expanded role in offensive coordinator Mike Tice's scheme, especially as a receiver. Cornerback Tim Jennings should retain his starting role opposite Charles Tillman, with D.J. Moore in the nickel. And safety Craig Steltz will provide reliable depth at safety and will be one of the Bears' special teams leaders after the departure of Graham and Bowman.
What's next: There is no urgency yet, but the Bears will need to make peace with tailback Matt Forte at some point before the summer. Forte isn't happy that he's been made the Bears' franchise player and briefly lost his public composure when Bush signed a deal that guaranteed him about the same amount of money as the franchise tag will pay Forte. It's not a big deal if Forte skips the Bears' offseason program or even misses a few days of training camp, but the Bears will want to find a way to eliminate this issue by early August. Meanwhile, it wouldn't be surprising if the Bears address their offensive line during the draft.
Detroit Lions
Key additions: Defensive end Everette Brown, cornerback Jacob Lacey.
Key losses: Cornerback Eric Wright.
All in the family: With the exception of Wright, the Lions were able to retain the core of their 10-6 team. Among those who re-signed: Tackle Jeff Backus, safety Erik Coleman, defensive end Andre Fluellen, quarterback Shaun Hill and linebacker Stephen Tulloch. And don't forget that receiver Calvin Johnson is locked up for perhaps the rest of his career. He signed a new eight-year contract worth $132 million.
What's next: The Lions appear interested in adding competition at safety, having hosted free agent O.J. Atogwe earlier this month. Adding a safety remains a possibility, if not through free agency, then probably through the draft. And while Backus is re-signed for two years, it wouldn't be surprising if the Lions look for a long-term replacement in the draft.
Green Bay Packers
Key additions: Defensive lineman Daniel Muir, center Jeff Saturday, defensive lineman Anthony Hargrove.
Key losses: Quarterback Matt Flynn, center Scott Wells.
Shocker: The Packers usually do whatever it takes to keep their own players and avoid having to search the free-agent market for other the castoffs of other teams. They started off that way by re-signing tight end Jermichael Finley to a two-year contract, but when they were unable to sign center Scott Wells, they quickly targeted veteran Jeff Saturday and made him their first starting-caliber free-agent signee in five years. General manager Ted Thompson also authorized the acquisition of Hargrove and the pursuit of Dave Tollefson.
What's next: It's not out of the question that the Packers will add a veteran pass-rusher, whether at defensive end or linebacker. Then they'll get back into their comfort zone and start preparing for the draft, where it's reasonable to think they'll use at least one of their 12 picks on a center while also continuing to pursue pass-rushers.
Minnesota Vikings
Key additions: Cornerback Zack Bowman, tight end John Carlson, running back Jerome Felton and offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz.
Key losses: Nose tackle Remi Ayodele (release), guards Anthony Herrera (release) and Steve Hutchinson (release), tight end Jim Kleinsasser (retire), running back Jerome Felton.
Methodical methodology: The Vikings made one big-money signing, bringing in Carlson as a new weapon for quarterback Christian Ponder, and otherwise have spent their offseason getting younger and signing complementary players. General manager Rick Spielman wants to end a cycle of seeking blue-chip players via free agency and instead count on the drafts for his difference-makers.
What's next: One way or the other, the Vikings need to find a deep threat for Ponder. The draft would seem the most likely place for that will happen. They are also midway through a rebuild of the secondary that could use at least one more cornerback and perhaps two safeties.
Chicago Bears
Key additions: Running back Michael Bush, linebacker/special teams Blake Costanzo, quarterback Jason Campbell, receiver Brandon Marshall (trade), receiver Devin Thomas, receiver/returner Eric Weems.
Key losses: Running back Marion Barber (retired), cornerback Zack Bowman, cornerback Corey Graham.
Come on back: Lost in the shuffle of the Marshall trade were the return of three free agents who should play key roles in 2012. Tight end Kellen Davis figures to get an expanded role in offensive coordinator Mike Tice's scheme, especially as a receiver. Cornerback Tim Jennings should retain his starting role opposite Charles Tillman, with D.J. Moore in the nickel. And safety Craig Steltz will provide reliable depth at safety and will be one of the Bears' special teams leaders after the departure of Graham and Bowman.
What's next: There is no urgency yet, but the Bears will need to make peace with tailback Matt Forte at some point before the summer. Forte isn't happy that he's been made the Bears' franchise player and briefly lost his public composure when Bush signed a deal that guaranteed him about the same amount of money as the franchise tag will pay Forte. It's not a big deal if Forte skips the Bears' offseason program or even misses a few days of training camp, but the Bears will want to find a way to eliminate this issue by early August. Meanwhile, it wouldn't be surprising if the Bears address their offensive line during the draft.
Detroit Lions
Key additions: Defensive end Everette Brown, cornerback Jacob Lacey.
Key losses: Cornerback Eric Wright.
All in the family: With the exception of Wright, the Lions were able to retain the core of their 10-6 team. Among those who re-signed: Tackle Jeff Backus, safety Erik Coleman, defensive end Andre Fluellen, quarterback Shaun Hill and linebacker Stephen Tulloch. And don't forget that receiver Calvin Johnson is locked up for perhaps the rest of his career. He signed a new eight-year contract worth $132 million.
What's next: The Lions appear interested in adding competition at safety, having hosted free agent O.J. Atogwe earlier this month. Adding a safety remains a possibility, if not through free agency, then probably through the draft. And while Backus is re-signed for two years, it wouldn't be surprising if the Lions look for a long-term replacement in the draft.
Green Bay Packers
Key additions: Defensive lineman Daniel Muir, center Jeff Saturday, defensive lineman Anthony Hargrove.
Key losses: Quarterback Matt Flynn, center Scott Wells.
Shocker: The Packers usually do whatever it takes to keep their own players and avoid having to search the free-agent market for other the castoffs of other teams. They started off that way by re-signing tight end Jermichael Finley to a two-year contract, but when they were unable to sign center Scott Wells, they quickly targeted veteran Jeff Saturday and made him their first starting-caliber free-agent signee in five years. General manager Ted Thompson also authorized the acquisition of Hargrove and the pursuit of Dave Tollefson.
What's next: It's not out of the question that the Packers will add a veteran pass-rusher, whether at defensive end or linebacker. Then they'll get back into their comfort zone and start preparing for the draft, where it's reasonable to think they'll use at least one of their 12 picks on a center while also continuing to pursue pass-rushers.
Minnesota Vikings
Key additions: Cornerback Zack Bowman, tight end John Carlson, running back Jerome Felton and offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz.
Key losses: Nose tackle Remi Ayodele (release), guards Anthony Herrera (release) and Steve Hutchinson (release), tight end Jim Kleinsasser (retire), running back Jerome Felton.
Methodical methodology: The Vikings made one big-money signing, bringing in Carlson as a new weapon for quarterback Christian Ponder, and otherwise have spent their offseason getting younger and signing complementary players. General manager Rick Spielman wants to end a cycle of seeking blue-chip players via free agency and instead count on the drafts for his difference-makers.
What's next: One way or the other, the Vikings need to find a deep threat for Ponder. The draft would seem the most likely place for that will happen. They are also midway through a rebuild of the secondary that could use at least one more cornerback and perhaps two safeties.
It's been a relatively quiet Saturday here in the NFC North, which is not unexpected given the Tuesday start to the NFL's player acquisition period. But this gives us a chance to catch up on some divisional odds and ends in quick-hitting fashion, of course.
Item: The Minnesota Vikings' stadium bill will need a special legislative exemption to proceed after missing a Friday deadline to be approved by at least one committee.
Comment: Such exemptions aren't unusual, but for the moment the bill is stalled and is not supported from the most powerful state legislator, House Speaker Kurt Zellers. State leaders hope to adjourn the 2012 session next month.
Item: The Chicago Bears have re-signed safety Craig Steltz to a two-year contract worth $1.64 million.
Comment: You never know what could happen with the Bears' always-changing safety position, but for now we have to assume that Steltz projects as a backup and special-teams player. Coach Lovie Smith's current favorite safeties are Major Wright and Chris Conte.
Item: The Washington Redskins have signed two former NFC North defensive backs, cornerback Cedric Griffin and safety Brandon Meriweather.
Comment: It's fair to say that both players had down years in 2011. Or, as Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel put it in this epic tweet: "Hard to find 2 more ineffective, near-worthless players in NFC-N than CB C. Griffin and S B. Meriweather. #Redskins signed them both. Wow."
Item: Former Green Bay Packers center Scott Wells' new contract with the St. Louis Rams is worth $24 million over four years, with $13 million guaranteed, according to Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Comment: That's not a bad haul for a 31-year-old center. We don't know what the Packers were offering, but I don't think Wells gave them a chance to match.
Item: Multiple media outlets report that the Detroit Lions could get visits from free-agent offensive lineman Eric Winston and safety LaRon Landry.
Comment: Winston has been visiting with the Kansas City Chiefs, and he wouldn't go to the Lions unless a deal with the Chiefs doesn't materialize. Landry has had injury problems but might be a classic case of needing a change of scenery.
Item: The Minnesota Vikings' stadium bill will need a special legislative exemption to proceed after missing a Friday deadline to be approved by at least one committee.
Comment: Such exemptions aren't unusual, but for the moment the bill is stalled and is not supported from the most powerful state legislator, House Speaker Kurt Zellers. State leaders hope to adjourn the 2012 session next month.
Item: The Chicago Bears have re-signed safety Craig Steltz to a two-year contract worth $1.64 million.
Comment: You never know what could happen with the Bears' always-changing safety position, but for now we have to assume that Steltz projects as a backup and special-teams player. Coach Lovie Smith's current favorite safeties are Major Wright and Chris Conte.
Item: The Washington Redskins have signed two former NFC North defensive backs, cornerback Cedric Griffin and safety Brandon Meriweather.
Comment: It's fair to say that both players had down years in 2011. Or, as Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel put it in this epic tweet: "Hard to find 2 more ineffective, near-worthless players in NFC-N than CB C. Griffin and S B. Meriweather. #Redskins signed them both. Wow."
Item: Former Green Bay Packers center Scott Wells' new contract with the St. Louis Rams is worth $24 million over four years, with $13 million guaranteed, according to Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Comment: That's not a bad haul for a 31-year-old center. We don't know what the Packers were offering, but I don't think Wells gave them a chance to match.
Item: Multiple media outlets report that the Detroit Lions could get visits from free-agent offensive lineman Eric Winston and safety LaRon Landry.
Comment: Winston has been visiting with the Kansas City Chiefs, and he wouldn't go to the Lions unless a deal with the Chiefs doesn't materialize. Landry has had injury problems but might be a classic case of needing a change of scenery.
After the Chicago Bears' 35-21 loss against the Green Bay Packers, here are three issues that merit further examination:
- The Bears usually do a decent job of limiting quarterback Aaron Rodgers' big plays against them, but he threw a career-high five touchdown passes and had three completions go for longer than 30 yards. I can't blame any one portion of the Bears' defense for that. It was a total team defeat. Their front line got almost no pass rush, accounting for one sack (of backup quarterback Matt Flynn) and a total of two quarterback hits. Safety Craig Steltz can hit but has a hard time in coverage, which is one more thing than fellow safety Major Wright has demonstrated. The decision to give cornerback Zack Bowman a new chance in place of Tim Jennings yielded no better results, and middle linebacker Brian Urlacher was conspicuously quiet with three tackles. When the offseason begins, the Bears will look at their defense and see four locked in starters -- Urlacher, cornerback Charles Tillman, linebacker Lance Briggs and defensive end Julius Peppers. Otherwise, all positions should be in play, don't you think? And don't forget that Briggs asked for a trade last summer because the Bears haven't upgraded his contact.
- I'm not sure what to make of quarterback Josh McCown's better-than-expected performance. He looked and played like someone who received an early Christmas present and had nothing to lose. The plan was obvious: Use running backs Kahlil Bell and Armando Allen as often as possible and limit the pressure situations McCown encountered. I noticed a few NFL players mocked McCown for dunking the ball over the goal post after a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter pulled the Bears within 17 points, but to me it just reflected probably the only Bears player who had fun Sunday night. I don't know that McCown extended his career Sunday night, but he gave the Bears a credible performance when expectations couldn't have been any lower.
- Bell ran hard and made the best of his opportunity Sunday night, gaining 121 yards on the ground and another 38 on four receptions. I would expect more of the same Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings, who released him in training camp in 2009. The Bears obviously have a limited opinion of Bell's worth, having buried him on their bench for most of the past three seasons. But in 12 career games in which he's gotten at least one carry, Bell has 503 yards. That's some significant production, something the Bears might want to consider when they are mapping out playing time for 2012.
Kevin SeifertThe Chicago Bears take their turn in the examination room after losing to Green Bay.The Bears have missed the playoffs for the fourth time in five seasons. How much turnover will that cause? Early indications, at least, suggest there won't be a major shakeup among the front office or coaching staff. The biggest question mark is whether the Bears will renew the contract of offensive coordinator Mike Martz. I'm against the idea of starting over with a new coordinator and scheme, but the offense's collapse over this five-game losing streak might have sealed Martz's fate.
Getting inside the Friday injury report:
Chicago Bears: Safety Major Wright (shoulder) was ruled out of Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos. Craig Steltz is expected to start in his place. Other than quarterback Jay Cutler (thumb) and running back Matt Forte (knee), all other players will be available.
Detroit Lions: Safety Louis Delmas (knee) and cornerback Chris Houston (knee) are doubtful and not expected to play Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. Linebacker Justin Durant (hamstring), who did not practice Thursday or Friday, is questionable. So is defensive tackle Nick Fairley (foot), who did not practice all week. The Lions signed free agent defensive tackle Jovan Haye and waived cornerback Brandon McDonald, presumably for more depth along the defensive line.
Green Bay Packers: Running back James Starks (ankle) and linebacker Desmond Bishop (calf) missed a third day of practice Friday and were declared out for Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders. Tackle Chad Clifton (hamstring) and linebacker Vic So'oto (back) were also declared out. But linebacker A.J. Hawk (calf) practiced for the first time since suffering the injury Nov. 24 and is listed as questionable. D.J. Smith is expected to start for Bishop, and Robert Francois would play for Hawk if he isn't able to go Sunday.
Minnesota Vikings: Quarterback Christian Ponder (hip) and running back Adrian Peterson (ankle) practiced Friday as limited participants. Neither player is close to 100 percent, and Ponder took only a handful of practice repetitions all week. The Vikings listed both players as questionable for Sunday's game. At 2-10, you wonder if the Vikings will risk further injury to either of their marquee offensive players. Joe Webb would start at quarterback if Ponder can not.
Chicago Bears: Safety Major Wright (shoulder) was ruled out of Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos. Craig Steltz is expected to start in his place. Other than quarterback Jay Cutler (thumb) and running back Matt Forte (knee), all other players will be available.
Detroit Lions: Safety Louis Delmas (knee) and cornerback Chris Houston (knee) are doubtful and not expected to play Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. Linebacker Justin Durant (hamstring), who did not practice Thursday or Friday, is questionable. So is defensive tackle Nick Fairley (foot), who did not practice all week. The Lions signed free agent defensive tackle Jovan Haye and waived cornerback Brandon McDonald, presumably for more depth along the defensive line.
Green Bay Packers: Running back James Starks (ankle) and linebacker Desmond Bishop (calf) missed a third day of practice Friday and were declared out for Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders. Tackle Chad Clifton (hamstring) and linebacker Vic So'oto (back) were also declared out. But linebacker A.J. Hawk (calf) practiced for the first time since suffering the injury Nov. 24 and is listed as questionable. D.J. Smith is expected to start for Bishop, and Robert Francois would play for Hawk if he isn't able to go Sunday.
Minnesota Vikings: Quarterback Christian Ponder (hip) and running back Adrian Peterson (ankle) practiced Friday as limited participants. Neither player is close to 100 percent, and Ponder took only a handful of practice repetitions all week. The Vikings listed both players as questionable for Sunday's game. At 2-10, you wonder if the Vikings will risk further injury to either of their marquee offensive players. Joe Webb would start at quarterback if Ponder can not.
We're Black and Blue All Over:
The Green Bay Packers will play at least four, and potentially six, consecutive games outdoors on grass fields in cold-weather locales. That means it's time to get their running game in order. But just as they hit that stretch, the Packers are trying to figure out the best way to handle a series of injuries to lead runner James Starks.
As Kareem Copeland of the Green Bay Press-Gazette points out, Starks has been forced out of three consecutive games because of knee and ankle injuries. He hasn't practiced all week and it might make some sense to hold him out of Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders to allow for additional healing time.
The Packers have a strong fallback in veteran Ryan Grant, and rookie Brandon Saine has been seeing repetitions in recent weeks. But we all know how much of an impact Starks made on the Packers' run to the Super Bowl last season. For what it's worth, Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin said that it might help to hold out Starks "from a freshness standpoint" but not a "football development standpoint" down the stretch.
The Packers have three regular-season games remaining at Lambeau Field and could have two playoff games if they win home-field advantage in the playoffs. Their only road game is in Week 15 at the Kansas City Chiefs.
Continuing around the NFC North:
The Green Bay Packers will play at least four, and potentially six, consecutive games outdoors on grass fields in cold-weather locales. That means it's time to get their running game in order. But just as they hit that stretch, the Packers are trying to figure out the best way to handle a series of injuries to lead runner James Starks.
As Kareem Copeland of the Green Bay Press-Gazette points out, Starks has been forced out of three consecutive games because of knee and ankle injuries. He hasn't practiced all week and it might make some sense to hold him out of Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders to allow for additional healing time.
The Packers have a strong fallback in veteran Ryan Grant, and rookie Brandon Saine has been seeing repetitions in recent weeks. But we all know how much of an impact Starks made on the Packers' run to the Super Bowl last season. For what it's worth, Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin said that it might help to hold out Starks "from a freshness standpoint" but not a "football development standpoint" down the stretch.
The Packers have three regular-season games remaining at Lambeau Field and could have two playoff games if they win home-field advantage in the playoffs. Their only road game is in Week 15 at the Kansas City Chiefs.
Continuing around the NFC North:
- The Packers have 30 rushing plays this season that have lost yardage, notes the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
- Packers punter Tim Masthay has become a big-time weapon, writes Jason Wilde of ESPNMilwaukee.com.
- The Detroit Lions are expecting the best shot Sunday from the Minnesota Vikings, writes Anwar S. Richardson of Mlive.com.
- The New Orleans Saints went to extreme measures to defend Lions receiver Calvin Johnson last Sunday, writes Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.
- John Niyo of the Detroit News: "The Calvin Rules are in full effect again, and it's up to [offensive coordinator Scott] Linehan and Matthew Stafford and Johnson's pass-catching teammates to take full advantage if the Lions are going to make the playoffs."
- Vikings receiver Percy Harvin suffered from migraine-like symptoms late last week, according to Jeremy Fowler of the St. Paul Pioneer Press.
- Mark Craig of the Star Tribune examines the "catch radius" of Vikings rookie tight end Kyle Rudolph.
- Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder needs to learn when to run and when not to, writes Tom Pelissero of 1500ESPN.com.
- Chicago Bears tailback Matt Forte is using a hyperbaric chamber to help his injured knee recover, notes Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune.
- The Bears don't have anything special planned for Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow, according to Mark Potash of the Chicago Sun-Times.
- It appears that the Bears will start Craig Steltz in place of injured safety Major Wright (shoulder) this week, notes Michael C. Wright of ESPNChicago.com.
Bears safeties: Steltz and Meriweather
September, 25, 2011
9/25/11
3:08
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
CHICAGO -- The Chicago Bears will be without both Week 1 safeties Chris Harris and Major Wright in Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers.
That's the upshot of the inactive lists we were just given here in the Soldier Field press box. Brandon Meriweather and Craig Steltz will start at safety for the Bears, who will also be without running back Marion Barber (calf). Receiver Roy Williams (groin) is active and will play.
The Bears do have quarterback Nathan Enderle active Sunday, mostly because injuries at other positions makes him one of their 46 healthy players.
There were no surprises among the Packers' inactive list.
That's the upshot of the inactive lists we were just given here in the Soldier Field press box. Brandon Meriweather and Craig Steltz will start at safety for the Bears, who will also be without running back Marion Barber (calf). Receiver Roy Williams (groin) is active and will play.
The Bears do have quarterback Nathan Enderle active Sunday, mostly because injuries at other positions makes him one of their 46 healthy players.
There were no surprises among the Packers' inactive list.
We're Black and Blue All Over:
Here's something that might catch you by surprise: Green Bay Packers receiver Jordy Nelson is on an extraordinarily productive run dating back to Week 16 of last season.
As Tyler Dunne of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes, Nelson has caught 34 passes for 610 yards and five touchdowns over the Packers' past eight games, including the playoffs. Greg Jennings is the only receiver who has caught more passes for more yards over that span, but Nelson has him beat by a touchdown.
Consider this development another example of where the Packers' purported starting lineup doesn't necessarily correlate to playing time or production. Already, backup tailback James Starks is getting substantially more playing time than starter Ryan Grant. And by the numbers, at least, Nelson is the Packers' No. 2 receiver next to Jennings.
Nelson isn't getting more playing time than other receivers; according to Dunne, he was on the field for 33 of 58 plays last Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. But he is capitalizing on the opportunities he does get, and opposing defenses would be well advised to catch on.
Continuing around the NFC North:
Here's something that might catch you by surprise: Green Bay Packers receiver Jordy Nelson is on an extraordinarily productive run dating back to Week 16 of last season.
As Tyler Dunne of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes, Nelson has caught 34 passes for 610 yards and five touchdowns over the Packers' past eight games, including the playoffs. Greg Jennings is the only receiver who has caught more passes for more yards over that span, but Nelson has him beat by a touchdown.
Consider this development another example of where the Packers' purported starting lineup doesn't necessarily correlate to playing time or production. Already, backup tailback James Starks is getting substantially more playing time than starter Ryan Grant. And by the numbers, at least, Nelson is the Packers' No. 2 receiver next to Jennings.
Nelson isn't getting more playing time than other receivers; according to Dunne, he was on the field for 33 of 58 plays last Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. But he is capitalizing on the opportunities he does get, and opposing defenses would be well advised to catch on.
Continuing around the NFC North:
- The Packers are hoping punter Tim Masthay finds a rhythm soon, writes Kareem Copeland of the Green Bay Press-Gazette.
- The Packers are upset about a roughing-the-passer call against linebacker Desmond Bishop in last Sunday's game, notes Jason Wilde of ESPNMilwaukee.com.
- The Chicago Bears might start Craig Steltz and Brandon Meriweather at safety Sunday against the Packers, writes Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune.
- Bears receivers coach Darryl Drake believes his group gets enough separation to merit throws, writes Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times.
- It appears receiver Roy Williams (groin) is on track to play Sunday, notes Jeff Dickerson of ESPNChicago.com.
- Detroit Lions safety Louis Delmas isn't a big fan of playing at the Metrodome, writes Justin Rogers of Mlive.com.
- Sunday will be receiver Nate Burleson's first return to the Metrodome since he departed the Minnesota Vikings after the 2005 season, notes the Detroit Free Press.
- The Lions are preparing to deal with the return of Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams, writes Chris McCosky of the Detroit News.
- Vikings tailback Adrian Peterson still has a big salary cap number under his new contract, notes Tom Pelissero of 1500ESPN.com.
- The city of Minneapolis is claiming about $30 million in proceeds if the Metrodome is sold, according to the Star Tribune.
- The Vikings' pass defense hasn't been the same since safety Darren Sharper left after the 2007 season, writes Jeremy Fowler of the St. Paul Pioneer Press.
Catching up on Thursday’s news bits around the NFC North, including what is expected to be a one-day practice absence for a part-time receiver in Minnesota:
Chicago Bears: Receiver Roy Williams (groin) fully participated in practice, a good sign for his availability for Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers. Safety Major Wright (head/neck) did not practice, and it’s possible the Bears could use a mix-and-match approach Sunday with Chris Harris (hamstring), Brandon Meriweather, Craig Steltz and possibly Chris Conte. Guard Lance Louis (ankle) and running back Marion Barber (calf) were limited. Harris said he is "optimistic" he will be able to play.
Detroit Lions: Most players who sat out Wednesday’s practice returned Thursday. Tight end Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) was the most notable exception. Pettigrew missed his second consecutive day.
Green Bay Packers: Cornerback Tramon Williams (shoulder) participated in his second consecutive day of practice, this time in full pads, and the Packers appear optimistic that he can play Sunday. Linebacker Clay Matthews (quadriceps) and cornerback Charles Woodson (foot) both sat out for a second consecutive day, but it’s expected that both will be available for the Bears game.
Minnesota Vikings: Receiver Percy Harvin missed practice because of an illness, but coach Leslie Frazier said Harvin does not have a migraine and is expected to be at practice Friday. Defensive end Jared Allen (shoulder) was a full participant Thursday. Cornerback Chris Cook (groin) made it through another practice as well.
Chicago Bears: Receiver Roy Williams (groin) fully participated in practice, a good sign for his availability for Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers. Safety Major Wright (head/neck) did not practice, and it’s possible the Bears could use a mix-and-match approach Sunday with Chris Harris (hamstring), Brandon Meriweather, Craig Steltz and possibly Chris Conte. Guard Lance Louis (ankle) and running back Marion Barber (calf) were limited. Harris said he is "optimistic" he will be able to play.
Detroit Lions: Most players who sat out Wednesday’s practice returned Thursday. Tight end Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) was the most notable exception. Pettigrew missed his second consecutive day.
Green Bay Packers: Cornerback Tramon Williams (shoulder) participated in his second consecutive day of practice, this time in full pads, and the Packers appear optimistic that he can play Sunday. Linebacker Clay Matthews (quadriceps) and cornerback Charles Woodson (foot) both sat out for a second consecutive day, but it’s expected that both will be available for the Bears game.
Minnesota Vikings: Receiver Percy Harvin missed practice because of an illness, but coach Leslie Frazier said Harvin does not have a migraine and is expected to be at practice Friday. Defensive end Jared Allen (shoulder) was a full participant Thursday. Cornerback Chris Cook (groin) made it through another practice as well.
Cleaning out my notebook with the 2011 NFL draft in the books:
The Chicago Bears love their safeties. Cal's Chris Conte is the ninth they've drafted since general manager Jerry Angelo took over in 2002.
(Extra credit if you can name all nine. They're at the bottom of this post.)
The Bears have given most of the players on that list a chance to start, and there's no reason to think they have a different plan for Conte. The Bears are targeting 2010 third-rounder Major Wright as a starting safety, and it's only fair to note that his presumed 2011 partner -- veteran Chris Harris -- is entering the final year of his contract. Is Conte the long-term replacement for Harris?
Bears general manager Jerry Angelo said the Bears "spent a lot of time" scouting Conte and noted that his conversion from cornerback means he has some cover skills. Bears defensive backs coach Jon Hoke received a strong recommendation from Cal defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast, and Angelo said it's "very, very hard to find free safeties." Call me crazy, but I'm thinking we'll see Conte on the field sooner rather than later.
It was nice to see Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders announce the Detroit Lions' choice of Boise State receiver Titus Young in the second round. Sanders hasn't taken much of a public profile in recent years, so it was interesting to follow his draft thoughts via Twitter (@BarrySanders). I noticed this tweet in particular:
The Lions have a distinguished history that predates that disastrous Matt Millen era that many modern-day fans associate them with. The endorsement of one of their best-ever players shouldn't be taken lightly.
Only a few minutes after drafting Illinois running back Mikel Leshoure, Lions coach Jim Schwartz was already facing the question: How will he dole out playing time between Leshoure and incumbent Jahvid Best?
Schwartz said he won't use a "Randy Ratio," the Minnesota Vikings' ill-fated attempt to ration throws to receiver Randy Moss in 2002. (Current Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan was in the same position with the Vikings at the time.) Schwartz said there was "definitely a possibility" of using both in the same backfield, but made clear that the approach could "change from week to week."
Schwartz: "It might change due to injuries and player availability. It might change based on opponent. I think there's a lot of different things that happen in our division. We see a 4-3 team like the Chicago Bears. We see a 3-4 team like the Green Bay Packers. That's a different style of running back. [You] play 3-4 teams that are two-gapping, that are holding on -- you need a big back who can run through some arm tackles. You want to get guys matched up on different teams, you need guys who can match up and beat linebackers and people that want to play man and trick coverage up for a certain player."
A few years ago, we celebrated when the Bears drafted the "pool guy." Defensive lineman Jarron Gilbert had made waves during the pre-draft process by jumping out of a pool and posting the video on YouTube. Unfortunately, Gilbert couldn't play and was waived last summer.
The Green Bay Packers drafted their own pool guy, Arizona defensive end/linebacker Ricky Elmore, but there is reason to believe he has a better future than Gilbert.
True, Elmore has posted videos of him both jumping out of a pool and into a truck on YouTube. But it's also worth noting that Elmore actually had more production last season than his more-famous teammate, defensive end/linebacker Brooks Reed.
Elmore finished last season with 11 sacks and a total of 13 tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Reed had six sacks and 10 tackles behind the line. At 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds, I'm eager to see if Elmore's athleticism and college production can translate in the Packers' 3-4 scheme.
Vikings rookie quarterback Christian Ponder is expected to be the starter sooner than later, if not immediately. Assuming that's the case, it's quite possible the Vikings will look for other ways to get Joe Webb onto the field -- possibly in a way that reflects the New York Jets' use of Brad Smith. In either event, it's likely the Vikings will need a veteran backup.
Offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave endorsed that suggestion, saying over the weekend that it "balances out a position." There continue to be reports, most recently from NFL.com, that the Vikings' most likely target is Washington's Donovan McNabb. If Ponder is going to take over at some point in 2011, that wouldn't make much sense to me.
But what do I know?
The Vikings might be the only NFC North team looking to add to its quarterback depth chart. Angelo strongly indicated that rookie Nathan Enderle will be the Bears' No. 3 quarterback behind Jay Cutler and Caleb Hanie. The Packers seem set with Aaron Rodgers, Matt Flynn and Graham Harrell. And Lions general manager Martin Mayhew has said he plans no changes from the trio of Matthew Stafford, Shaun Hill and Drew Stanton.
South Florida safety Mistral Raymond, drafted by the Vikings with the No. 170 overall pick, has endured an incredible three years. As Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune explains, a group vowing retaliation for a shooting mis-identified Raymond's childhood home in Florida and burned it down using Molotov cocktails. No family members were killed, but one of Raymond's sisters was shot four times and airlifted to a trauma center for emergency surgery.
Then, last month, another sister was murdered. Raymond said over the weekend that he hoped his selection in the draft provided a joyful outlet for his family.
"Just having my family here with me, having them see my name come across the screen and seeing the excitement that it brought them, I think it was a relief for all of us," he said. "It helped me realize what type of position that the Lord has put me in. He has blessed me to be an outlet for my family. For them to have excitement no matter what at any given time of the day. It's just a great feeling for me personally, and I'm very grateful to be in the position I'm in."
And finally, your trivia answer: Bobby Gray (2002), Todd Johnson (2003), Chris Harris (2005), Danieal Manning (2006), Kevin Payne (2007), Craig Steltz (2008), Al Afalava (2009), Major Wright (2010), Chris Conte (2011).
The Chicago Bears love their safeties. Cal's Chris Conte is the ninth they've drafted since general manager Jerry Angelo took over in 2002.
(Extra credit if you can name all nine. They're at the bottom of this post.)
The Bears have given most of the players on that list a chance to start, and there's no reason to think they have a different plan for Conte. The Bears are targeting 2010 third-rounder Major Wright as a starting safety, and it's only fair to note that his presumed 2011 partner -- veteran Chris Harris -- is entering the final year of his contract. Is Conte the long-term replacement for Harris?
Bears general manager Jerry Angelo said the Bears "spent a lot of time" scouting Conte and noted that his conversion from cornerback means he has some cover skills. Bears defensive backs coach Jon Hoke received a strong recommendation from Cal defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast, and Angelo said it's "very, very hard to find free safeties." Call me crazy, but I'm thinking we'll see Conte on the field sooner rather than later.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Frank Franklin IIFormer Lions running back Barry Sanders said via Twitter that he might visit Detroit's training camp this offseason.
AP Photo/Frank Franklin IIFormer Lions running back Barry Sanders said via Twitter that he might visit Detroit's training camp this offseason."Very impressed with what the team has done over the past few drafts.... I might even stop by training camp to see the guys this year..."
The Lions have a distinguished history that predates that disastrous Matt Millen era that many modern-day fans associate them with. The endorsement of one of their best-ever players shouldn't be taken lightly.
Only a few minutes after drafting Illinois running back Mikel Leshoure, Lions coach Jim Schwartz was already facing the question: How will he dole out playing time between Leshoure and incumbent Jahvid Best?
Schwartz said he won't use a "Randy Ratio," the Minnesota Vikings' ill-fated attempt to ration throws to receiver Randy Moss in 2002. (Current Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan was in the same position with the Vikings at the time.) Schwartz said there was "definitely a possibility" of using both in the same backfield, but made clear that the approach could "change from week to week."
Schwartz: "It might change due to injuries and player availability. It might change based on opponent. I think there's a lot of different things that happen in our division. We see a 4-3 team like the Chicago Bears. We see a 3-4 team like the Green Bay Packers. That's a different style of running back. [You] play 3-4 teams that are two-gapping, that are holding on -- you need a big back who can run through some arm tackles. You want to get guys matched up on different teams, you need guys who can match up and beat linebackers and people that want to play man and trick coverage up for a certain player."
A few years ago, we celebrated when the Bears drafted the "pool guy." Defensive lineman Jarron Gilbert had made waves during the pre-draft process by jumping out of a pool and posting the video on YouTube. Unfortunately, Gilbert couldn't play and was waived last summer.
The Green Bay Packers drafted their own pool guy, Arizona defensive end/linebacker Ricky Elmore, but there is reason to believe he has a better future than Gilbert.
True, Elmore has posted videos of him both jumping out of a pool and into a truck on YouTube. But it's also worth noting that Elmore actually had more production last season than his more-famous teammate, defensive end/linebacker Brooks Reed.
Elmore finished last season with 11 sacks and a total of 13 tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Reed had six sacks and 10 tackles behind the line. At 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds, I'm eager to see if Elmore's athleticism and college production can translate in the Packers' 3-4 scheme.
Vikings rookie quarterback Christian Ponder is expected to be the starter sooner than later, if not immediately. Assuming that's the case, it's quite possible the Vikings will look for other ways to get Joe Webb onto the field -- possibly in a way that reflects the New York Jets' use of Brad Smith. In either event, it's likely the Vikings will need a veteran backup.
Offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave endorsed that suggestion, saying over the weekend that it "balances out a position." There continue to be reports, most recently from NFL.com, that the Vikings' most likely target is Washington's Donovan McNabb. If Ponder is going to take over at some point in 2011, that wouldn't make much sense to me.
But what do I know?
The Vikings might be the only NFC North team looking to add to its quarterback depth chart. Angelo strongly indicated that rookie Nathan Enderle will be the Bears' No. 3 quarterback behind Jay Cutler and Caleb Hanie. The Packers seem set with Aaron Rodgers, Matt Flynn and Graham Harrell. And Lions general manager Martin Mayhew has said he plans no changes from the trio of Matthew Stafford, Shaun Hill and Drew Stanton.
South Florida safety Mistral Raymond, drafted by the Vikings with the No. 170 overall pick, has endured an incredible three years. As Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune explains, a group vowing retaliation for a shooting mis-identified Raymond's childhood home in Florida and burned it down using Molotov cocktails. No family members were killed, but one of Raymond's sisters was shot four times and airlifted to a trauma center for emergency surgery.
Then, last month, another sister was murdered. Raymond said over the weekend that he hoped his selection in the draft provided a joyful outlet for his family.
"Just having my family here with me, having them see my name come across the screen and seeing the excitement that it brought them, I think it was a relief for all of us," he said. "It helped me realize what type of position that the Lord has put me in. He has blessed me to be an outlet for my family. For them to have excitement no matter what at any given time of the day. It's just a great feeling for me personally, and I'm very grateful to be in the position I'm in."
And finally, your trivia answer: Bobby Gray (2002), Todd Johnson (2003), Chris Harris (2005), Danieal Manning (2006), Kevin Payne (2007), Craig Steltz (2008), Al Afalava (2009), Major Wright (2010), Chris Conte (2011).
CHICAGO -- Believe it. I rolled in to Soldier Field at about 10:15 a.m. ET, fresh and ready to hit Round 2 of our NFC North playoff doubleheader. After the Green Bay Packers' victory Saturday night in Atlanta, we're halfway to nirvana
Enough about me and that. (For now, at least. I’ll put together a post tracking some of the high points of this journey on Monday. And if the Chicago Bears beat the Seattle Seahawks, we’ll have a post or two about the NFC North’s new role as the epicenter of humanity.)
First things first. We just received the official inactive lists from both teams, and I can report there are absolutely no surprises. As expected, Seahawks linebacker Lofa Tatupu (concussion) has been cleared to play and will start.
The Bears, who listed no players on their injury report Friday, had their usual list of inactive players: Quarterback Caleb Hanie, safety Craig Steltz, running back Kahlil Bell, cornerback Joshua Moore, offensive linemen Herman Johnson and Edwin Williams, tight end Desmond Clark and defensive lineman Marcus Harrison.
OK. I'll be joining NFC West colleague Mike Sando and the rest of our crew over at Countdown Live during the game. Please join us.
Enough about me and that. (For now, at least. I’ll put together a post tracking some of the high points of this journey on Monday. And if the Chicago Bears beat the Seattle Seahawks, we’ll have a post or two about the NFC North’s new role as the epicenter of humanity.)
First things first. We just received the official inactive lists from both teams, and I can report there are absolutely no surprises. As expected, Seahawks linebacker Lofa Tatupu (concussion) has been cleared to play and will start.
The Bears, who listed no players on their injury report Friday, had their usual list of inactive players: Quarterback Caleb Hanie, safety Craig Steltz, running back Kahlil Bell, cornerback Joshua Moore, offensive linemen Herman Johnson and Edwin Williams, tight end Desmond Clark and defensive lineman Marcus Harrison.
OK. I'll be joining NFC West colleague Mike Sando and the rest of our crew over at Countdown Live during the game. Please join us.
Major Wright's ascension delayed
September, 23, 2010
9/23/10
10:51
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
It appears the Chicago Bears' long-term plan at safety will be pushed back -- again. Rookie Major Wright could miss up to a month because of a strained hamstring suffered in Sunday's victory over the Dallas Cowboys, according to Michael C. Wright of ESPNChicago.com.
A strained groin and a fractured finger limited Wright in training camp, but the Bears still put him on the fast track to a starting position by including him in a Week 1 rotation with starting free safety Chris Harris. The latest ailment will leave Harris and Danieal Manning in the starting lineup, with Josh Bullocks and Craig Steltz in reserve.
From a big-picture perspective, the Harris-Manning combination has performed well enough for a defense that is limiting opponents to 17 points per game, tied for 14th-best in the NFL.
A strained groin and a fractured finger limited Wright in training camp, but the Bears still put him on the fast track to a starting position by including him in a Week 1 rotation with starting free safety Chris Harris. The latest ailment will leave Harris and Danieal Manning in the starting lineup, with Josh Bullocks and Craig Steltz in reserve.
From a big-picture perspective, the Harris-Manning combination has performed well enough for a defense that is limiting opponents to 17 points per game, tied for 14th-best in the NFL.
Every Friday, NFL teams are required to classify each injured player's availability for the next game. And so traditionally on this blog, we take that occasion to translate the information as best we can. The big Week 1 news is that Detroit Lions linebacker DeAndre Levy (groin) appears awfully, awfully unlikely to play against the Chicago Bears.
Let's get to it:
Chicago Bears: The only player at risk is safety Craig Steltz (ankle), who participated fully in Friday's practice but is still listed as questionable. At most, Steltz would be a special teams participant Sunday against the Lions. Linebacker Lance Briggs (ankle), who missed practice earlier in the week, is listed as probable and will definitely play. The same goes for tight end Desmond Clark (ankle).
Detroit Lions: Levy never practiced this week and is listed as doubtful. Veteran Landon Johnson is expected to start in his place. Safety Louis Delmas (groin) has been limited in practice but is expected to play. Safety C.C. Brown (fractured forearm) and cornerback Jonathan Wade (fractured finger) are both probable and will play with heavy padding.
Green Bay Packers: Cornerback Brandon Underwood (shoulder) was declared out. The only other players at risk are linebacker Desmond Bishop (hamstring) and defensive lineman Mike Neal (side). They're listed as questionable, but neither participated in practice on Thursday and Friday. That's not a good sign. Linebacker Brady Poppinga (knee) returned to practice Friday and is probable. Linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring) had full participation all week.
Let's get to it:
Chicago Bears: The only player at risk is safety Craig Steltz (ankle), who participated fully in Friday's practice but is still listed as questionable. At most, Steltz would be a special teams participant Sunday against the Lions. Linebacker Lance Briggs (ankle), who missed practice earlier in the week, is listed as probable and will definitely play. The same goes for tight end Desmond Clark (ankle).
Detroit Lions: Levy never practiced this week and is listed as doubtful. Veteran Landon Johnson is expected to start in his place. Safety Louis Delmas (groin) has been limited in practice but is expected to play. Safety C.C. Brown (fractured forearm) and cornerback Jonathan Wade (fractured finger) are both probable and will play with heavy padding.
Green Bay Packers: Cornerback Brandon Underwood (shoulder) was declared out. The only other players at risk are linebacker Desmond Bishop (hamstring) and defensive lineman Mike Neal (side). They're listed as questionable, but neither participated in practice on Thursday and Friday. That's not a good sign. Linebacker Brady Poppinga (knee) returned to practice Friday and is probable. Linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring) had full participation all week.
Final arguments loom for position battles
August, 30, 2010
8/30/10
1:00
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
As we enter the final week of the preseason, position battles and depth chart competition should be nearing their conclusion. No clear answers generally means trouble. So with that timing in mind, let's take a look at the key summer issues in each NFC North locale:
Chicago Bears
Unsettled positions: Both safeties and strongside linebacker
Comment: The safety issue will come down to how quickly rookie Major Wright can return from a fractured finger. If it's soon, he could be the free safety with Chris Harris at strong. If not, the Bears might have to patch the position together with Harris at free safety and Danieal Manning or Craig Steltz on the strong side. Meanwhile, Nick Roach seemed to have the linebacker job won before having knee surgery. Can Pisa Tinoisamoa hold him off?
Detroit Lions
Unsettled positions: No. 2 cornerback, strong safety
Comment: Jonathan Wade held down the cornerback job in camp until a finger injury knocked him from the lineup. Eric King or Dre' Bly could be his short- and/or long-term replacement. C.C. Brown was the first-team strong safety for most of camp, but his hand was in a cast last week. Randy Phillips has been the primary replacement, but fellow rookie Amari Spievey was moved from cornerback to safety last week.
Green Bay Packers
Unsettled positions: Left guard and punter
Comment: Daryn Colledge won the left guard job by default after a hip flexor slowed rookie Bryan Bulaga. Tim Masthay appears to have an edge on Chris Bryan in the punting battle, but the Packers will take the competition through the end of the week.
Minnesota Vikings
Unsettled positions: No. 2 cornerback, strong safety, center, third-down back
Comment: Rookie Chris Cook appears on the brink of beating out Lito Sheppard and Asher Allen for the right cornerback job. Tyrell Johnson is trying to hold off Jamarca Sanford at safety. That battle is too close to call. The Vikings are worried that center John Sullivan's calf injury has put him too far behind to be ready for the Sept. 9 season opener at New Orleans, leaving them to decide whether to play backup Jon Cooper or move over right guard Anthony Herrera. The Vikings have rotated Adrian Peterson, Toby Gerhart and Albert Young in the third-down role and might use a combination when the season begins.
Chicago Bears
Unsettled positions: Both safeties and strongside linebacker
Comment: The safety issue will come down to how quickly rookie Major Wright can return from a fractured finger. If it's soon, he could be the free safety with Chris Harris at strong. If not, the Bears might have to patch the position together with Harris at free safety and Danieal Manning or Craig Steltz on the strong side. Meanwhile, Nick Roach seemed to have the linebacker job won before having knee surgery. Can Pisa Tinoisamoa hold him off?
Detroit Lions
Unsettled positions: No. 2 cornerback, strong safety
Comment: Jonathan Wade held down the cornerback job in camp until a finger injury knocked him from the lineup. Eric King or Dre' Bly could be his short- and/or long-term replacement. C.C. Brown was the first-team strong safety for most of camp, but his hand was in a cast last week. Randy Phillips has been the primary replacement, but fellow rookie Amari Spievey was moved from cornerback to safety last week.
Green Bay Packers
Unsettled positions: Left guard and punter
Comment: Daryn Colledge won the left guard job by default after a hip flexor slowed rookie Bryan Bulaga. Tim Masthay appears to have an edge on Chris Bryan in the punting battle, but the Packers will take the competition through the end of the week.
Minnesota Vikings
Unsettled positions: No. 2 cornerback, strong safety, center, third-down back
Comment: Rookie Chris Cook appears on the brink of beating out Lito Sheppard and Asher Allen for the right cornerback job. Tyrell Johnson is trying to hold off Jamarca Sanford at safety. That battle is too close to call. The Vikings are worried that center John Sullivan's calf injury has put him too far behind to be ready for the Sept. 9 season opener at New Orleans, leaving them to decide whether to play backup Jon Cooper or move over right guard Anthony Herrera. The Vikings have rotated Adrian Peterson, Toby Gerhart and Albert Young in the third-down role and might use a combination when the season begins.
Let's set up the summer's most important night of preseason football in the NFC North. All three games will be played Saturday.
Chicago Bears
Opponent: Arizona Cardinals
Location: Soldier Field
Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters will play at least a half and possibly into the third quarter. Middle linebacker Brian Urlacher (calf) won't play, and we probably won't see him again until the Sept. 12 opener against the Detroit Lions. Safety Craig Steltz (ankle), receiver Earl Bennett (hamstring), linebacker Nick Roach (knee) and quarterback Caleb Hanie (shoulder) are all expected to be sidelined. It's also unlikely that new quarterback Todd Collins, signed this week as the likely replacement for Hanie, will be ready to play much in this game.
Focal point: The preseason is to be taken with a grain of salt, but it would be nice if the Bears could take at least a granule of optimism with them into the regular season. Their first two outings have been a toxic mix of poor pass protection, special teams gaffes and defensive lethargy. A crisper outing in preseason Week 3 would allow us to file previous efforts in the "learning pains" category. But if it's more of the same Saturday night, Bears fans will have real reason to worry.
Detroit Lions
Opponent: Cleveland Browns
Location: Ford Field
Time: 5 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters will play at least a half. Place-kicker Jason Hanson (knee) might kick beforehand but isn't expected to participate in the game. Safety Louis Delmas (groin) is expected to make his preseason debut, but it's not clear if fellow starter C.C. Brown (hand) can play. We're not expecting to see defensive ends Jared DeVries (knee) or Lawrence Jackson (hamstring).
Focal point: We haven't given the Lions defense much credit this summer, so it will be interesting to see the impact of Delmas' return. First of all, is he finally healthy? Assuming the answer is yes, how much can he impact the entire group? Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton threw for 177 yards in the first half of last week's game. Let's see if Delmas can help the Lions have a better showing against Cleveland's Jake Delhomme.
Minnesota Vikings
Opponent: Seattle Seahawks
Location: Metrodome
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters are expected to play into the third quarter because most will sit out next week's preseason finale for precautionary reasons. As was the case in 2009, that makes this game the primary building block for the offense following the late arrival of quarterback Brett Favre. And like last season, Favre will be playing with a whole new set of receivers. Javon Walker and Greg Camarillo could make their Vikings debut. Receiver Percy Harvin (migraines) isn't expected to play. Neither is defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy (unknown injury).
Focal point: The Vikings' first-team offense hasn't scored a touchdown this preseason, so its development is a crucial storyline Saturday night. So is the continuing competition at right cornerback, where rookie Chris Cook is getting a chance to win the job vacated (temporarily) by the injured Cedric Griffin. Veteran Lito Sheppard and second-year player Asher Allen remain in the mix.
Earlier: Our review of the Green Bay Packers' 59-24 victory Thursday night over the Indianapolis Colts.
Chicago Bears
Opponent: Arizona Cardinals
Location: Soldier Field
Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters will play at least a half and possibly into the third quarter. Middle linebacker Brian Urlacher (calf) won't play, and we probably won't see him again until the Sept. 12 opener against the Detroit Lions. Safety Craig Steltz (ankle), receiver Earl Bennett (hamstring), linebacker Nick Roach (knee) and quarterback Caleb Hanie (shoulder) are all expected to be sidelined. It's also unlikely that new quarterback Todd Collins, signed this week as the likely replacement for Hanie, will be ready to play much in this game.
Focal point: The preseason is to be taken with a grain of salt, but it would be nice if the Bears could take at least a granule of optimism with them into the regular season. Their first two outings have been a toxic mix of poor pass protection, special teams gaffes and defensive lethargy. A crisper outing in preseason Week 3 would allow us to file previous efforts in the "learning pains" category. But if it's more of the same Saturday night, Bears fans will have real reason to worry.
Detroit Lions
Opponent: Cleveland Browns
Location: Ford Field
Time: 5 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters will play at least a half. Place-kicker Jason Hanson (knee) might kick beforehand but isn't expected to participate in the game. Safety Louis Delmas (groin) is expected to make his preseason debut, but it's not clear if fellow starter C.C. Brown (hand) can play. We're not expecting to see defensive ends Jared DeVries (knee) or Lawrence Jackson (hamstring).
Focal point: We haven't given the Lions defense much credit this summer, so it will be interesting to see the impact of Delmas' return. First of all, is he finally healthy? Assuming the answer is yes, how much can he impact the entire group? Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton threw for 177 yards in the first half of last week's game. Let's see if Delmas can help the Lions have a better showing against Cleveland's Jake Delhomme.
Minnesota Vikings
Opponent: Seattle Seahawks
Location: Metrodome
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters are expected to play into the third quarter because most will sit out next week's preseason finale for precautionary reasons. As was the case in 2009, that makes this game the primary building block for the offense following the late arrival of quarterback Brett Favre. And like last season, Favre will be playing with a whole new set of receivers. Javon Walker and Greg Camarillo could make their Vikings debut. Receiver Percy Harvin (migraines) isn't expected to play. Neither is defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy (unknown injury).
Focal point: The Vikings' first-team offense hasn't scored a touchdown this preseason, so its development is a crucial storyline Saturday night. So is the continuing competition at right cornerback, where rookie Chris Cook is getting a chance to win the job vacated (temporarily) by the injured Cedric Griffin. Veteran Lito Sheppard and second-year player Asher Allen remain in the mix.
Earlier: Our review of the Green Bay Packers' 59-24 victory Thursday night over the Indianapolis Colts.
Who knows what evil lurks in the heart of preseason Week 2? Your NFC North blogger knows …
Chicago Bears
Opponent: Oakland Raiders
Location: Soldier Field
Date/Time: Saturday, 8:30 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters are expected to play into the second quarter. Those who won’t play include receiver Earl Bennett (hamstring), safety Major Wright (finger), quarterback Caleb Hanie (shoulder), safety Craig Steltz (ankle), and possibly long-snapper Patrick Mannelly (stinger). Tight end Desmond Clark would handle Mannelly’s long-snapping duties if necessary.
Focal point: Normally, established starting quarterbacks don’t need -- or want -- much preseason work. I’m thinking that’s not the case for Jay Cutler, who is still learning an intricate new offense. I’d like to see Cutler make much more than the two passes he threw in the preseason opener in San Diego. Let’s see how comfortable he is throwing to receivers other than Johnny Knox, and whether he’ll react better to pressure than he did last season.
Detroit Lions
Opponent: Denver Broncos
Date/Time: Saturday, 9 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters could play into the second quarter. Safety Louis Delmas (groin) has said he would like to play, but the Lions might not take that risk. The same goes for tight end Brandon Pettigrew (knee) and running back Kevin Smith (knee). Cornerback Jonathan Wade (finger) won’t play. Middle linebacker DeAndre Levy (back) is expected to make his preseason debut.
Focal point: Coach Jim Schwartz said this week that there will be a big emphasis on evaluating special teams, including return men. “Kickoff and punt return, I think we’re going to need to really do a good job of putting guys in positions and maybe creating some positions to put them in and things like that, and just see how they do,” Schwartz said. “That’s going to be a big part of the evaluation of a lot of these guys.”
Green Bay Packers
Opponent: Seattle Seahawks
Location: Qwest Field
Date/Time: Saturday, 10 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters will play about the same as they did last weekend, or about 20 plays. Among those who could be sidelined are linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring), safety Will Blackmon (knee) and running back Kregg Lumpkin (hamstring.)
Focal point: Sorry. It’s unlikely the Packers will spice up their defensive looks in response to last week’s soft performance against the Cleveland Browns. “I think it’s important not to rely too much on scheme and really stay focused on the fundamentals,” coach Mike McCarthy said. “Last year was a totally different mindset for us because we were going from a totally different defensive scheme to more of a pressure scheme. It wasn’t the schematic volume that was important in preseason, it was the ability to play pressure football in live game. That’s why we pressured as much as we did last year. It wasn’t as much as the different schemes we were trying to play against the preseason opponents as to develop that mindset, that speed, to get the pressure off the ground. The volume for this game, we’re more focused on how we’re playing specifically, the details we’re playing with within the schemes.”
Minnesota Vikings
Opponent: San Francisco 49ers
Location: Candlestick Park
Date/Time: Sunday, 8 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters will play at least the first quarter, with quarterback Brett Favre taking the first series or two before yielding to Tarvaris Jackson. Middle linebacker E.J. Henderson will start for the first time since fracturing his left femur last December. Players who won’t participate include center John Sullivan and receivers Sidney Rice (hip) and Percy Harvin (migraines).
Focal point: In some ways, the Vikings began training camp Wednesday when they finally got Favre on the field. But with Rice, Harvin and Sullivan still sidelined, their offense represents a work in progress. I’m guessing Favre wants to get a few throws in and then get the heck off the field.
Chicago Bears
Opponent: Oakland Raiders
Location: Soldier Field
Date/Time: Saturday, 8:30 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters are expected to play into the second quarter. Those who won’t play include receiver Earl Bennett (hamstring), safety Major Wright (finger), quarterback Caleb Hanie (shoulder), safety Craig Steltz (ankle), and possibly long-snapper Patrick Mannelly (stinger). Tight end Desmond Clark would handle Mannelly’s long-snapping duties if necessary.
Focal point: Normally, established starting quarterbacks don’t need -- or want -- much preseason work. I’m thinking that’s not the case for Jay Cutler, who is still learning an intricate new offense. I’d like to see Cutler make much more than the two passes he threw in the preseason opener in San Diego. Let’s see how comfortable he is throwing to receivers other than Johnny Knox, and whether he’ll react better to pressure than he did last season.
Detroit Lions
Opponent: Denver Broncos
Date/Time: Saturday, 9 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters could play into the second quarter. Safety Louis Delmas (groin) has said he would like to play, but the Lions might not take that risk. The same goes for tight end Brandon Pettigrew (knee) and running back Kevin Smith (knee). Cornerback Jonathan Wade (finger) won’t play. Middle linebacker DeAndre Levy (back) is expected to make his preseason debut.
Focal point: Coach Jim Schwartz said this week that there will be a big emphasis on evaluating special teams, including return men. “Kickoff and punt return, I think we’re going to need to really do a good job of putting guys in positions and maybe creating some positions to put them in and things like that, and just see how they do,” Schwartz said. “That’s going to be a big part of the evaluation of a lot of these guys.”
Green Bay Packers
Opponent: Seattle Seahawks
Location: Qwest Field
Date/Time: Saturday, 10 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters will play about the same as they did last weekend, or about 20 plays. Among those who could be sidelined are linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring), safety Will Blackmon (knee) and running back Kregg Lumpkin (hamstring.)
Focal point: Sorry. It’s unlikely the Packers will spice up their defensive looks in response to last week’s soft performance against the Cleveland Browns. “I think it’s important not to rely too much on scheme and really stay focused on the fundamentals,” coach Mike McCarthy said. “Last year was a totally different mindset for us because we were going from a totally different defensive scheme to more of a pressure scheme. It wasn’t the schematic volume that was important in preseason, it was the ability to play pressure football in live game. That’s why we pressured as much as we did last year. It wasn’t as much as the different schemes we were trying to play against the preseason opponents as to develop that mindset, that speed, to get the pressure off the ground. The volume for this game, we’re more focused on how we’re playing specifically, the details we’re playing with within the schemes.”
Minnesota Vikings
Opponent: San Francisco 49ers
Location: Candlestick Park
Date/Time: Sunday, 8 p.m. ET
Personnel notes: Starters will play at least the first quarter, with quarterback Brett Favre taking the first series or two before yielding to Tarvaris Jackson. Middle linebacker E.J. Henderson will start for the first time since fracturing his left femur last December. Players who won’t participate include center John Sullivan and receivers Sidney Rice (hip) and Percy Harvin (migraines).
Focal point: In some ways, the Vikings began training camp Wednesday when they finally got Favre on the field. But with Rice, Harvin and Sullivan still sidelined, their offense represents a work in progress. I’m guessing Favre wants to get a few throws in and then get the heck off the field.
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.
