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Peter from Rutland, Vt., points to Anthony Dixon's failed third-and-1 rushing attempt in the NFC Championship Game as one reason the San Francisco 49ers might have signed former New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs.

This play escaped my attention in the Jacobs item Tuesday. I suspect the play-by-play file I consulted did not encompass the NFC Championship Game.

"Dixon got stuffed by the Giants on a key third-and-1 attempt," Peter recalled. "He danced instead of smashing. That's why they took a chance on Jacobs. Dixon is not a reliable power back."

Perhaps, but Jacobs failed to convert a fourth-and-1 rushing attempt in the same game, and he has never been known for his hard-nosed running.

Dixon converted both of his rushing tries during the regular season when needing a single yard on third or fourth down. He missed that one attempt during the postseason, but Jacobs converted only 4 of 8 regular-season tries and 5-of-11 overall when counting the postseason.

I went back and watched Dixon's failed play just to be sure what happened. Dixon did not set a new standard for powerful running on the play, but neither did he have much room to run.

The 49ers shuffled their offensive line and brought onto the field two defenders, Justin Smith and Isaac Sopoaga, for additional blocking. The line, left to right, featured Vernon Davis, Alex Boone, Adam Snyder, Jonathan Goodwin (center), Mike Iupati, Anthony Davis, Joe Staley and Smith. Sopoaga lined up to the right in an offset-I formation.

The blocking was not very good. Mathias Kiwanuka shed Smith immediately and blocked Dixon's path off tackle. Chris Canty got between Anthony Davis and Staley in time to affect Dixon. Dixon did hesitate and step to the side as he sought an opening. Again, though, the blocking was not great.

While an NFL offense should be able to pick up a third-and-1 on the ground, I've thought the 49ers needed to occasionally break from tendency in these situations, not just with a pass but with a deeper strike to Vernon Davis. Previous 49ers coaching staffs succeeded with this tactic.

The 49ers had beaten the Giants for an 18-yard pass to Delanie Walker on a third-and-1 play when the teams met back in Week 10. Perhaps the 49ers' staff knew the Giants would be ready if they tried another pass. And, as noted, the team should be able to pick up a third-and-1 rushing play.

But with such a heavy formation to the right side, the Giants were ready for Dixon. They also took advantage of the fact that Smith, though a great player, plays defense and isn't a polished blocker.

The chart shows 2011 regular-season conversion stats for NFC West running backs on third and fourth downs with 1 yard needed for a first down. There's a reason teams use quarterback sneaks.

Aaron Curry, apparently headed for Oakland, has plenty of company among 2009 NFL draft choices failing to meet expectations with their original teams.

The player Seattle's previous leadership drafted fourth overall was part of a draft featuring quite a few underwhelming players near the top.

Thirteen NFC West choices from the 2009 draft remain with their teams: Max Unger, Deon Butler and Cameron Morrah in Seattle; Beanie Wells, Rashad Johnson, Greg Toler and LaRod Stephens-Howling in Arizona; Jason Smith, James Laurinaitis, Bradley Fletcher and Darell Scott in St. Louis; and two players in San Francisco, Michael Crabtree and Ricky-Jean Francois.

Let's sift through the rubble ...

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Matt Leinart apparently has no idea where he stands with the Arizona Cardinals. That makes it tough for the rest of us to predict exactly what might happen.

Will Leinart start at quarterback for the Cardinals in Week 1? Will he serve as the backup? Will the Cardinals release him? Might they trade him?

The next week to 10 days should provide answers. NFL teams have until Saturday to reduce their rosters to 53-man limits, with the 75-man deadline passing Tuesday.

After looking at the Seahawks' roster earlier Monday, here's a quick run through the Cardinals:

Quarterbacks (4)

Average number kept since 2003: 3.0

Keepers: Derek Anderson

Looking safe: Max Hall

On the bubble: Leinart, John Skelton

Comment: Coach Ken Whisenhunt's handling of Leinart suggests there's more than tough love at work here. It's fair to question whether Leinart fits into the team's plans at all this season. The smart move, it seems, would be to keep Anderson, Leinart and the winner of the Hall-Skelton competition. But it's clear Whisenhunt isn't convinced Leinart has what it takes to be a starting quarterback.

Running backs (8)

Average number kept since 2003: 5.3

Keepers: Tim Hightower, Beanie Wells, LaRod Stephens-Howling, Jason Wright

On the bubble: Reagan Maui'a, Charles Scott

Also: Alfonso Smith, Nehemiah Broughton

Comment: Scott arrived via trade this week after Broughton suffered a season-ending knee injury. Maui'a could be the choice heading into the regular season. Scott provides depth for the final exhibition game, but it's unlikely he would be refined enough as a blocker to factor into the offense in a meaningful way. Smith's speed caught my attention early in camp.

Wide receivers (11)

Average number kept since 2003: 6.1

Keepers: Larry Fitzgerald, Steve Breaston, Early Doucet

Looking safe: Andre Roberts, Stephen Williams

On the bubble: Onrea Jones, Max Komar

Also: Isaiah Williams, Darren Mougey, Mike Jones, Ed Gant

Comment: Gant serves a suspension to open the season. Roberts will make the team as a third-round pick. Williams pretty much wrapped up a spot with his latest strong performance (at Chicago). Jones and Komar could be competing for a sixth and final spot at the position.

Tight ends (4)

Average number kept since 2003: 3.1

Keepers: Ben Patrick, Anthony Becht, Stephen Spach

Also: Jim Dray

Comment: The team released Dominique Byrd on Monday. The top three appear set. Not much drama here. Dray looks like practice-squad material.

Offensive linemen (12)

Average number kept since 2003: 8.9

Keepers: Lyle Sendlein, Alan Faneca, Brandon Keith, Reggie Wells, Levi Brown, Deuce Lutui, Rex Hadnot, Jeremy Bridges

Looking safe: Herman Johnson

Also: Ben Claxton, Tom Pestock, Jonathan Palmer

Comment: Lutui could be trending toward a spot back in the starting lineup despite reporting to camp overweight. Johnson also reported overweight. He isn't a starter, and that's why I listed him separately from the keepers (even though it's an upset, most likely, if Johnson does not stick).

Defensive line (9)

Average number kept since 2003: 7.4

Keepers: Darnell Dockett, Calais Campbell, Dan Williams, Bryan Robinson

Looking safe: Alan Branch, Gabe Watson, Kenny Iwebema

Also: John Fletcher, Jeremy Clark

Comment: This position appears pretty much set. I would expect seven to earn roster spots.

Linebackers (14)

Average number kept since 2003: 7.1

Keepers: Gerald Hayes, Paris Lenon, Clark Haggans, Joey Porter, Daryl Washington

Looking safe: Will Davis, Cody Brown

Bubble: Monty Beisel, Reggie Walker

Also: O'Brien Schofield, Steve Baggs, Mark Washington, Chris Johnson, Pago Togafau

Comment: Hayes and Schofield could open the season on reserve/physically unable to perform, opening two roster spots. Beisel and Walker could be competing for the final spot at this position.

Defensive backs (13)

Average number kept since 2003: 8.9

Keepers: Adrian Wilson, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Kerry Rhodes, Greg Toler, Trumaine McBride, Matt Ware

Looking safe: Michael Adams, Hamza Abdullah, Rashad Johnson

On the bubble: Marshay Green

Also: A.J. Jefferson, Trevor Ford, Justin Miller

Comment: Toler could be passing McBride on the depth chart as the starting right cornerback, fulfilling expectations. Johnson appeared more physical early in camp. Haven't heard much about him lately, though.

Specialists (3)

Average number kept since 2003: 2.9

Keepers: Jay Feely, Ben Graham, Mike Leach

Comment: Arizona has three on the roster and that's how many the team will keep. Simple enough.

Ten NFC West draft choices combined for 76 starts as rookies last season. Five of the 10 played for the rebuilding St. Louis Rams. An eleventh, Beanie Wells, made significant contributions despite never cracking the lineup.

The 2010 draft class will command more immediate attention when teams open training camps, but the 2009 class figures to contribute more after a year of seasoning.

Here's my look at the NFC West's 2009 choices heading into their second season:

Best choice

Michael Crabtree, WR, 49ers. The Cardinals' Wells and the Rams' James Laurinaitis made more immediate impacts. They reported to camp on time. But Crabtree commanded a starting job right away once he finally signed, and he immediately justified his starting status. Crabtree was surprisingly consistent and polished. Given a chance to select any other 2009 NFC West draft choices, I think the 49ers would stick with Crabtree.

Best immediate contributor

Laurinaitis, MLB, Rams. Laurinaitis became an immediate starter and didn't seem to fall off the way No. 4 overall choice Aaron Curry did in Seattle. Laurinaitis wasn't a star, but he stepped into a position requiring knowledge of the defense. Laurinaitis finished the season with 2.0 sacks, five passes defensed, two interceptions and a forced fumble. He and Seahawks second-rounder Max Unger were the only 2009 NFC West draft choices to start 16 games last season.

Best value

LaRod Stephens-Howling, RB, Cardinals. The Cardinals found one of the best special-teams players in the division with the 240th overall choice. Stephens-Howling was outstanding on coverage teams. He provided a threat in the return game, too, scoring a critical touchdown at Tennessee. The Cardinals also found ways to work Stephens-Howling into the offense. He caught 10 passes for 83 yards and a touchdown, though he didn't provide much as a rushing threat.

Most to prove

Jason Smith, LT, Rams. Curry finished a close second in this category. Smith started only five games and did not stand out when he was on the field (not that offensive linemen always have to stand out). A serious concussion and subsequent toe injury have raised questions about Smith's durability. The Rams will be investing heavily in No. 1 overall choice Sam Bradford and they'll need Smith to protect him. Smith works hard and the Rams have surrounded him with veteran mentors.

A team-by-team look at the 2009 class:

Arizona Cardinals

2009 picks: 8

Total 2009 starts: 2

Projected 2010 starters (2): first-rounder Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State; fourth-rounder Greg Toler, CB, St. Paul's.

Other potential starters (1): Wells could have wound up here, but I'll stick with my projection that he'll start this season.

On the hot seat: Cody Brown, OLB, Connecticut. The Cardinals could use one of their young pass-rushers to emerge. A serious wrist injury prevented Brown from contributing last season. He was a second-round choice, though, so expectations are relatively high. Arizona needs him.

No longer with team (1): seventh-rounder Trevor Canfield, Cincinnati (Detroit Lions)

Keep an eye out for: sixth-rounder Will Davis. He showed promise last season and was improving until a knee injury sidelined him.

Forgotten man: We've seen little evidence suggesting third-round choice Rashad Johnson will become a factor anytime soon, if at all.

San Francisco 49ers

2009 picks: 7

Total 2009 starts: 13

Projected 2010 starters (1): Crabtree

Other potential starters (0): None.

On the hot seat: Scott McKillop, LB, Pitt. The 49ers hoped McKillop might develop into a successor to inside linebacker Takeo Spikes. It could still happen, but coaches quickly replaced McKillop with veteran Matt Wilhelm when Spikes was out.

No longer with team (1): sixth-rounder Bear Pascoe, TE, Fresno State (New York Giants)

Keep an eye out for: seventh-rounder Ricky Jean-Francois, NT, LSU. Jean-Francois worked at nose tackle during minicamps and organized team activities while franchise player Aubrayo Franklin remained unsigned. Franklin will likely sign and he'll become the starter again when he does.

Forgotten man: Glen Coffee, RB, Alabama. Frank Gore's return to health means Coffee will not be needed much, if at all. The 49ers used a sixth-round choice for Anthony Dixon, a running back from Mississippi State. The buzz on Coffee went away when he struggled to gain yardage running behind a struggling line early last season.

Seattle Seahawks

2009 picks: 7

Total 2009 starts: 28

Projected 2010 starters (2): first-rounder Curry, LB, Wake Forest; second-rounder Unger, G, Oregon.

Other potential starters (0): None.

On the hot seat: Curry. His rookie season went from promising to disappointing after the Seahawks lost their defensive quarterback, middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu, to season-ending injury. Curry said he tried to do too much from that point forward. The Seahawks hope Curry can become an effective pass-rusher in nickel situations. To fulfill his potential, though, Curry must become a good strongside linebacker, too.

No longer with team (2): sixth-rounder Mike Teel, QB, Rutgers (Chicago Bears); seventh-rounder Courtney Greene, S, Rutgers (Jacksonville Jaguars).

Keep an eye out for: third-rounder Deon Butler, WR, Penn St. Butler has good straight-line speed, but he lacks the size Seattle wants in its receivers. Coach Pete Carroll called Butler one of the team's most improved players this offseason, but it's unclear whether the team will find a role for him.

St. Louis Rams

2009 picks: 7

Total 2009 starts: 33

Projected 2010 starters (2): first-rounder Smith, LT, Baylor; second-rounder Laurinaitis, MLB, Ohio St.

Other potential starters (2): third-rounder Bradley Fletcher, CB, Iowa; fourth-rounder Darell Scott, DT, Clemson.

On the hot seat: fifth-rounder Brooks Foster, WR, North Carolina. The Rams like other young receivers, including rookie free agents Dominique Curry and Brandon McRae. They also used a fourth-round choice for Mardy Gilyard. Brandon Gibson should play a role. There's pressure on Foster to make a strong comeback from the ankle injury that ended his rookie season.

No longer with team (0): All seven choices remain on the roster.

Keep an eye out for: Fletcher, the third-round corner from Iowa. Torn knee ligaments ended Fletcher's rookie season in October after the promising rookie started three games. The Rams hope Fletcher can come back to win the starting job.

Earlier: Winners, losers from 2008 class.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Kurt Warner has had much more success finding Larry Fitzgerald on early downs, with Anquan Boldin emerging on third down and Steve Breaston's effectiveness transcending all downs.

The charts, produced by Hank Gargiulo of ESPN Stats & Information, break down Warner's passer ratings by receiver and situation. The first chart isolates first and second downs.

Kurt Warner's passer rating differential by receiver on first and second downs Receiver Times targeted Passer Rating Rating to other receivers Differential Jason Wright 3 128.5 85.6 +42.9 Larry Fitzgerald 53 109.5 82.2 +27.3 Ben Patrick 5 100.8 88.8 +12.0 Steve Breaston 31 99.1 87.4 +11.7 Tim Hightower 28 96.0 87.0 +9.0 Anthony Becht 6 85.4 89.3 -3.8 Stephen Spach 4 81.3 89.3 -8.0 Jerheme Urban 16 77.6 89.8 -12.2 Anquan Boldin 43 74.2 93.0 -18.9 LaRod Stephens-Howling 4 66.7 89.6 -22.9 Dan Kreider 3 42.4 89.9 -47.6 Chris Wells 5 41.3 91.3 -50.1

The second chart isolates third down. Warner's rating when throwing to Boldin jumps from 74.2 on early downs to 103.0 on third down. His rating when throwing to Fitzgerald drops from 109.5 on early downs to 32.7 on third down.

Kurt Warner's passer rating differential by receiver on third down Receiver Times targeted Passer Rating Rating to other receivers Differential Steve Breaston 7 108.3 61.0 +47.3 Anquan Boldin 13 103.0 58.1 +44.9 Ben Patrick 2 95.8 62.1 +33.7 Anthony Becht 1 95.8 65.7 +30.2 LaRod Stephens-Howling 3 88.9 62.2 +26.7 Tim Hightower 18 84.0 60.3 +23.7 Sean Morey 1 39.6 67.3 -27.7 Lance Long 1 39.6 67.3 -27.7 Larry Fitzgerald 14 32.7 74.6 -41.9 Jerheme Urban 9 4.6 76.3 -71.6 Stephen Spach 2 0.0 74.2 -74.2

Breaston's role in the offense probably deserves more scrutiny. Warner probably throws to Breaston mostly when Fitzgerald and Boldin do not present superior options. I think that explains why Breaston catches a higher percentage of the passes thrown his way. Perhaps he needs to be a higher-percentage play for Warner to consider throwing to him.

The difficulties Warner has had finding Fitzgerald in obvious passing situations -- analyzed here, here and here -- would be most apparent on third down.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

If only the Cardinals could combine Tim Hightower with Beanie Wells.

Arizona's two most recent plays showed why the team needs both of them. Hightower alertly caught the ball on third-and-10, converting a first down. Wells followed by delivering two stiff-arms during an impressive touchdown run.

The sooner the Cardinals can trust Wells on those third-down plays, the better they'll be. Wells is clearly the Cardinals' best runner.

Cardinals eligible for practice squad Pos. Perceived Status Michael Adams DB Bubble Jameel Dowling DB Likely cut Wilrey Fontenot DB Likely cut Rashad Johnson DB Keeper Greg Toler DB Keeper Alex Field DL Likely cut Keilen Dykes DL Bubble Cody Brown LB Keeper Chase Bullock LB Likely cut Will Davis LB Bubble Ali Highsmith LB Bubble Pago Togafau LB Bubble Reggie Walker LB Likely cut Trevor Canfield OL Likely cut Ben Claxton OL Likely cut Herman Johnson OL Keeper Carlton Medder OL Likely cut Brandon Keith OL Keeper Brandon Pearce OL Likely cut Elliot Vallejo OL Bubble Tyler Palko QB Likely cut Brian St. Pierre QB Keeper LaRod Stephens-Howling RB Bubble Chris Vincent RB Likely cut Beanie Wells RB Keeper Early Doucet WR Keeper Ed Gant WR Likely cut Michael Ray Garvin WR Bubble Onrea Jones WR Likely cut Lance Long WR Bubble Steve Sanders WR Likely cut

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt's recent comments about LaRod Stephens-Howling highlight a subject likely to shape the team's plans for its practice squad.

What to do with a talented player who doesn't fit neatly into a general position, in this case, running back?

Stephens-Howling would be a prime candidate for the practice squad if the Cardinals did not initially make room for him on their 53-man roster. Specialist Michael Ray Garvin also could be a factor depending on how he recovers from knee surgery.

Quarterback Tyler Palko made an impression during the Cardinals' exhibition opener, but the team generally does not keep a quarterback on its practice squad. The need for an additional arm seems diminished with new quarterbacks coach Chris Miller sometimes throwing during practice.

Defensive end Keilen Dykes was making a strong push for a roster spot before suffering an injury. His status seems a bit less settled.

Receivers Onrea Jones and Lance Long could also be strong candidates for the practice squad if they do not land spots on the 53-man roster.

The chart shows all 31 current Cardinals players with eligibility, arranged by position.

NFL teams must reduce rosters from 80 to 75 players Sept. 1. They must reduce to 53 players Sept. 5. They can begin forming eight-man practice squads Sept. 6 at noon ET.

As the NFL puts it:

After 12 noon, New York ti
me, clubs may establish a practice squad of eight players by signing free agents who do not have an accrued season of free-agency credit or who were on the 45-player active list for less than nine regular-season games during their only accrued season(s). A player cannot participate on the practice squad for more than three seasons.

Round Signed Picks Unsigned Picks Total Picks 1 2 30 32 2 2 30 32 3 15 21 36 4 13 23 36 5 21 16 37 6 21 15 36 7 34 13 47 Totals 108 148 256

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Agent Nate Haber used Twitter to announce a contract agreement between the Rams and third-round choice Bradley Fletcher, noting that Fletcher can earn about $1.2 million in the first year.

The Rams have not announced anything. NFC West teams have signed or agreed to terms with 15 of 29 choices if we count the Fletcher agreement.

NFC North teams have signed or agreed to terms with 18 players, most in the league. The NFC East and AFC North are next with 17, followed by the NFC West (15), AFC South (13), NFC South (12), AFC East (10) and AFC West (5).

The chart shows signings by round throughout the league. I'll break out NFC West signing statuses below:

(Read full post)

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Seventh-round choice Cameron Morah's signing in Seattle, announced by the Seahwaks, leaves the team with three unsigned picks.

A quick look at which NFC West draft choices have signed so far:

Arizona Cardinals

Signed (4): fifth-rounder Herman Johnson, sixth-rounder Davis, seventh-rounder LaRod Stephens-Howling, seventh-rounder Trevor Canfield.

Unsigned (4): first-rounder Chris Wells, second-rounder Cody Brown, third-rounder Rashad Johnson, fourth-rounder Gregory Toler.

San Francisco 49ers

Signed (4): fifth-rounder Scott McKillop, sixth-rounder Bear Pascoe, seventh-rounder Curtis Taylor, seventh-rounder Ricky Jean-Francois.

Unsigned (3): first-rounder Michael Crabtree, third-rounder Glen Coffee, fifth-rounder Nate Davis.

Seattle Seahawks

Signed (4): sixth-rounder Mike Teel, seventh-rounder Courtney Greene, seventh-rounder Nick Reed, seventh-rounder Cameron Morrah.

Unsigned (3): first-rounder Aaron Curry, second-rounder Max Unger, third-rounder Deon Butler.

St. Louis Rams

Signed (0): none.

Unsigned (7): first-rounder Jason Smith, second-rounder James Laurinaitis, third-rounder Bradley Fletcher, fourth-rounder Darell Scott, fifth-rounder Brooks Foster, sixth-rounder Keith Null, seventh-rounder Chris Ogbonnaya.

Division 2009 Draft Choices Signed NFC West 11 NFC North 10 NFC East 10 AFC East 4 AFC North 4 NFC South 3 AFC South 3 AFC West 1

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Sixth-round choice Will Davis' signing in Arizona, announced by the Cardinals, leaves the NFC West with 18 unsigned picks, fewest in the league.

There's little urgency to sign picks this early, but some teams are ahead of others. The Rams have appeared content to wait.

Arizona Cardinals

Signed (4): fifth-rounder Herman Johnson, sixth-rounder Davis, seventh-rounder LaRod Stephens-Howling, seventh-rounder Trevor Canfield.

Unsigned (4): first-rounder Chris Wells, second-rounder Cody Brown, third-rounder Rashad Johnson, fourth-rounder Gregory Toler.

San Francisco 49ers

Signed (4): fifth-rounder Scott McKillop, sixth-rounder Bear Pascoe, seventh-rounder Curtis Taylor, seventh-rounder Ricky Jean-Francois.

Unsigned (3): first-rounder Michael Crabtree, third-rounder Glen Coffee, fifth-rounder Nate Davis.

Seattle Seahawks

Signed (3): sixth-rounder Mike Teel, seventh-rounder Courtney Greene, seventh-rounder Nick Reed.

Unsigned (4): first-rounder Aaron Curry, second-rounder Max Unger, third-rounder Deon Butler, seventh-rounder Cameron Morrah.

St. Louis Rams

Signed (0): none.

Unsigned (7): first-rounder Jason Smith, second-rounder James Laurinaitis, third-rounder Bradley Fletcher, fourth-rounder Darell Scott, fifth-rounder Brooks Foster, sixth-rounder Keith Null, seventh-rounder Chris Ogbonnaya.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Clint from Mesa, Ariz., writes: As a Cards fan of over 20 years, I admittedly have spent the last few months wondering if 2008-2009 was an aberration or not. I'm a logical person and I truly believe this time that the Cards have turned the corner.

Here's why:

• The new physical training program that John Lott runs is putting guys in a position to not wear down late, not get injured, and be able to beat opponents off the ball, especially late in the season.
• The fact that Ken Whisenhunt will play who deserves to play and not just lean on his stars helps share the burden. Examples: a rejuvenated Edgerrin James and a dominant Darnell Dockett in the playoffs.
• Lastly, there's just a sense of unquestionable trust and authority around the coaching staff with this regime that hasn't been here with any coaching staff I can remember. Even the local media seems to give the staff some wiggle room when it comes to questioning decisions.

All of that really seems to be the formula for continued success and all are components I've never seen here. What are your thoughts?

Mike Sando: I think you raise good points, but that doesn't mean you should be surprised or even disappointed if the Cardinals fail to advance deep into the playoffs this season. Arizona could conceivably have a better team this season and still fall short of the Super Bowl.

In other words, we should not necessarily view last season as an aberration even if the Cardinals fail to meet your expectations in 2009. Lots of things must happen for a team to enjoy a special season. Ken Whisenhunt knows this and I think that helps explain why he had a hard time getting over the Super Bowl defeat. He knows how hard it is to reach that game.

The point about John Lott holds up to a degree. He was the strength coach in 2007 when Matt Leinart lasted five games, Chike Okeafor missed the entire season and the injuries affected the Cardinals to a more significant degree. I wouldn't blame Lott for those injuries any more than I would give him full credit for the team's unusual health in 2008. Players are going to suffer injuries even if a team's strength coach is doing a fantastic job.

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GWperformer from Graham, Wash., writes: Hi Sando, I appreciate your coverage of the NFC West. I would like your insight on the Hawks' safety situation. I, like many a Hawk fan, cringe at the thought of seeing Brian Russell back in the starting lineup. Is there a chance that Jamar Adams could take over at strong safety, allowing Grant to move to free safety? Could Adams or Courtney Greene be an option at free safety? Or is it possible that Russell isn't as bad as he seemed last year, and could benefit from a new defensive coordinator and defensive system?

Mike Sando: Thanks, GW. I think the harsh criticism directed toward Russell is overdone. I tend to cringe when people overanalyze play in the secondary without knowing each player's responsibilities within a certain call.

If Russell were truly as bad as his harshest critics would have us believe, I think he would be out of the league. As it is, no one on the roster has even beaten him out.

If I were the Seahawks, I would much rather have Russell in the secondary than Michael Boulware and sometimes even Ken Hamlin, based on the big plays Seattle allowed on known busted coverages when those two were playing together.

Let's see how the defense functions under the new staff before making definitive judgments. Quite a few Seattle players struggled last season.

(Read full post)

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart worked out with the Patriots' Tom Brady at UCLA this offseason. I'm sure this was simply a case of Brady wanting to pick Leinart's brain. Ha. Ha. Ha. Seriously, though, Brady helped Leinart with fundamentals such as footwork and his release. Brady is one of the most fundamentally sound quarterbacks in terms of how he stands, where he holds the ball, etc. Good move by Leinart.

Also from Somers: The Cardinals are raving about new quarterbacks coach Chris Miller. This was an important hire for coach Ken Whisenhunt after the Cardinals lost offensive coordinator Todd Haley. Miller appears to have instant credibility with Kurt Warner and the other quarterbacks.

More from Somers: Look for Steve Breaston to remain the Cardinals' punt returner.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com looks at how the team's linemen approach non-contact practices. The work can become monotonous.

Revenge of the Birds' Bezekira wonders why Bertrand Berry isn't attending the Cardinals' voluntary camp.

Larry Fitzgerald [via Twitter] says he spent Wednesday night watching TV at his house with Cardinals rookie running back Chris Wells. Wells is hanging out with the right guy.

Bryan Burwell of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says Rams fans shouldn't worry too much about the team leaving St. Louis. Burwell: "Regardless of whether the majority ownership of the Rams is eventually purchased by local buyers or strangers from a thousand miles away, the odds are still fairly strong that St. Louis will remain the Rams' home. No matter who ultimately ends up buying this franchise from Chip Rosenbloom and Lucia Rodriguez, they will find a dramatically different economic landscape in place since the wild and woolly 1980s, when NFL franchise free agency was at its peak."

Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch solicits feedback from Dan Dierdorf about the Rams' future in St. Louis. Dierdorf thinks the Rams would have had much better luck finding a local buyer eight or nine months ago. Dierdorf: "I think that gentlemen in St Louis who might have been players in it -- given the economy -- are more interested in running their own businesses ... and the interest in owning an NFL franchise has been put on the back burner. It's hard to criticize anyone who is taking that stance." 

Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch checks in with Rams linebacker Dominic Douglas.

Tim Klutsarits of examiner.com reiterates why he thinks the Rams might be unlikely to leave St. Louis. Los Angeles appears to be the only logical destination, but the city has struggled to bring back the NFL. Klutsarits: "The NFL tried everything in their power to get a team there a few years ago but had to give the expansion team to Houston because L.A. can't get their act together. One of two things will happen in the LA market. They will build their stadium and the Chargers, Raiders or Jaguars will make the move or they will never get it done. I am still betting on them never getting it done and even if they do it, won't be with the Rams." 

Denis C. Theriault of the San Jose Mercury News details the Santa Clara City Council's decision to approve the 49ers' financing plan for a new stadium near team headquarters. The approval sets up a public vote on the matter. This is a significant victory for the 49ers and team president Jed York, although much work remains. 

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says the 49ers have had no substantive talks about sharing a stadium with the Raiders. Barrows: "There hasn't been a Super Bowl in Northern California since Joe Montana outdueled Dan Marino in Palo Alto in January 1985. But that will change if the new stadium is built in Santa Clara, York said."

Eric D. Williams of the Tacoma News Tribune summarizes Ken Lucas' recent interview with KJR radio host Mitch Levy. Lucas: "Some people feel like I'm old now age-wise. But for me, my motivation is to show everybody that I'm not going to let a young guy outwork me, period. I feel like I have a lot of football left in me. I feel like my best is yet to come. So with that being said, I'm only getting better with time. And I feel like I'm faster, quicker, and much wiser than what I used to be when I first went to Carolina." 

Also from Williams: He thinks the Seahawks will finish among the NFL's top 10 teams in rushing yardage if Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett stay healthy. There's no question that coordinator Greg Knapp's teams have fared well running the ball. I just wonder if the Seahawks might pass more than expected given their personnel.

John Morgan of Field Gulls revisits Jon Ryan's season as the Seahawks' punter in 2008.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch implores Rams fans to continue buying tickets while majority owner Chip Rosenbloom tries to sell the team. Miklasz: "That way, no Rams owner will have an excuse to pull the team out of here because of a lack of support. And with sellout crowds filing into home games, perhaps this will rally the business community and motivate potential buyers from the St. Louis area." Miklasz defends Rosenbloom's decision to sell the team based on financial pressures wrought by estate taxes.

Also from Miklasz: a question-and-answer session covering key issues relating to a potential Rams sale. Miklasz: "Now that Rosenbloom and [sister Lucia] Rodriguez have enlisted Goldman Sachs to find a buyer, it's obvious they're serious about selling the team. But that realization should be helpful to the St. Louis cause. With the Rams on the block, I believe it will motivate a local buyer [or group] to mobilize and come forward to save the team."

Howard Balzer of insidestl.com checks in with Rams quarterback Marc Bulger, who longs for stability in the organization. Balzer: "It has been a whirlwind for Bulger since the 2005 season, when head coach Mike Martz became ill and Steve Fairchild took over as offensive coordinator. Since then, the coordinating and play-calling has gone from Scott Linehan to Greg Olson, back to Linehan, and then Al Saunders. For those counting, including this year, that's seven changes in five seasons."

Larry Weisman of USA Today takes a comprehensive look at the 49ers and concludes that they can contend for the NFC West title in 2009. Weisman: "The NFC West is hardly a powerhouse division, so the 49ers will look to make a rapid move upward, just as the Arizona Cardinals did a year ago. The 49ers need to settle on a quarterback, open up their passing game a bit with Crabtree and force more turnovers on defense."

Daniel Brown of the San Jose Mercury News recognizes former 49ers offensive lineman Randy Cross for his service through Ronald McDonald House at Stanford. Cross: "I've met 10-year-old patients at the house that are more mature than a lot of NFL players. They have had to deal with real severe, serious life-and-death situations. It makes you smile and tears your heart out at the same time. And that's the reason I have stayed involved."

Doug Farrar of Smarter Stats on washingtonpost.com sizes up first-round choices in the NFC West, concluding that the Cardinals' Chris Wells fits the profile of a physical back. Farrar: "The problem is the amount of time Wells spent in the trainer's room, especially in his last two seasons, due to a variety of ankle, hamstring, foot, and thumb injuries."

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic expects the Cardinals to reach agreement on a contract extension for Pro Bowl safety Adrian Wilson. Somers: "He's attending the voluntary workouts and says and does all the right things in the organization's view. The Cardinals would send a strong message to other players by re-signing Wilson soon. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that the guy is pretty good and in his prime."

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com checks in with new Seahawks fullback Justin Griffith. Offensive coordinator Greg Knapp: "Justin has a good feel for the fullback position in our offense, especially in the run game." Griffith says he has recovered from the knee injury he suffered with the Raiders. Griffith sees himself as a mentor for second-year fullback Owen Schmitt and others who are new to Knapp's offense.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Former Cardinals running back J.J. Arrington is now a former Broncos running back as well. Denver released Arrington amid lingering concerns about a knee injury.

Would the Cardinals take back Arrington? They passed on him early in free agency before signing Jason Wright as an unrestricted free agent from the Browns.

Wright projects as a potential third-down back, a role Arrington played. Arizona also drafted Chris Wells in the first round and LaRod Stephens-Howling in the seventh. Stephens-Howling projects as a potential return specialist, another role Arrington played.

Arrington's contract with the Broncos included an injury waiver. The knee problem was a bigger concern than I realized.

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Wells

If there's such a thing as a rookie hot seat -- and I could argue either side -- Cardinals running back Chris Wells would seem to qualify. Arizona is counting on him to replace Edgerrin James and help the Cardinals develop a more consistent ground game.

Every high-profile rookie faces some level of pressure and expectation. Wells faces more than usual for the 31st player chosen in a draft class. He'll play and possibly start from the beginning. His numbers will be compared to what James and Tim Hightower managed last season.

NFL rules governing rookies and when they can report to camp will cost Wells nearly one month of on-site preparation time. The setback should be only a temporary one. He's a running back, after all, not a quarterback. The bigger challenge for Wells could be proving he can avoid the injuries that slowed him during an otherwise impressive career at Ohio State.

Rookies, Vets on the Hot Seat ROOKIES ON THE HOT SEAT • AFC: N | S | E | W • NFC: N | S | E | W VETS ON THE HOT SEAT • AFC: N | S | E | W • NFC: N | S | E | W

Wells isn't the only NFC West rookie facing high expectations in 2009, but the nature of his position will make his contributions easy to evaluate. Teams use multiple receivers most of the time. They generally use only one halfback at a time. That puts halfbacks in the spotlight every time they're on the field.

Honorable mention: James Laurinaitis, LB, Rams. The Rams released Pisa Tinoisamoa, leaving them thin at the position. Laurinaitis will presumably have to play right away.