NFC West: Donnie Jones
Jacob Bell, Brandon Lloyd, Chris Chamberlain and Donnie Jones have left the St. Louis Rams for other teams as unrestricted free agents this offseason.
Seventeen other Rams players achieved UFA status, and none has re-signed with the team. Meanwhile, the other three NFC West teams have re-signed 13 of their own UFAs, with another 16 reaching agreement with new teams.
What is going on here? Cue the latest "Blogger Blitz" video from the NFC West for a few thoughts.
Two high-profile NFC West athletes recently made headlines for the right reasons.
We touched upon San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith's participation in the search for a missing teenager. In Arizona, meanwhile, Pro Bowl safety Adrian Wilson recently donated $100,000 to Phoenix Children's Hospital.
Darren Urban of azcardinals.com has the details. Urban also quotes Wilson on football matters: "Offense sells tickets. I guess that’s the goal of marketing, sell tickets, fill the stadium up. Defensively we’ll be fine. Our secondary, our defense, we were talking about it (Wednesday night), a bunch of us guys. It's our second year, we should be trending up. We shouldn't take a step back. Everyone understands what their role is and what we need to get done."
Also from Urban: The Cardinals appear to remain interested in signing free-agent offensive lineman Demetrius Bell. Urban: "As I have mentioned before, his number of visits while remaining unsigned usually points to a salary desire that’s higher than market value. There’s always a chance that could change. Bell has reportedly visited the Packers and Redskins besides the Cards, and he’s now in Pittsburgh and has a visit lined up with the Eagles, who lost stud starter Jason Peters to a ruptured Achilles tendon during an offseason workout. Demand is climbing, so Bell might have been smart to wait. He may not leave Pennsylvania."
Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says Cardinals backup quarterback Rich Bartel attended Brock Osweiler's workout for scouts recently. Somers: "Bartel is a football junkie so he dropped by to watch. Bartel already spends his off-season coaching at camps, and he'll be a fine coach, scout, etc., whenever he's through playing."
Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times says the Seahawks let Anthony Hargrove sign with the Packers because they considered Jason Jones an upgrade at defensive tackle. O'Neil on Hargrove: "He was a mainstay in Seattle's nickel package last year, he had three sacks and his most memorable play was the tackle for a loss he had, registering a safety in New York against the Giants."
Brady Henderson of 710ESPN Seattle says it's looking like David Hawthorne will re-sign with the Seahawks on a two- or three-year contract, according to ESPN's John Clayton. Clayton: "I think that Hawthorne is starting to realize that the market may not be there."
Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer says Seahawks coach Pete Carroll came away highly impressed after studying Cam Newton's rookie performance with the Carolina Panthers.
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch checks in with former Rams punter Donnie Jones, who recently signed with the Houston Texans. Jones: "My whole thing is that you always want to go somewhere where they want you, they really want you to be a part of something. I guess in St. Louis they just didn't want that." Noted: It's rarely personal from the team's standpoint, especially when it comes to a punter, but it's almost always personal from the player's perspective.
Howard Balzer of 101ESPN St. Louis looks at how the Rams' rookie pool will affect their salary cap outlook.
Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle says the 49ers plan to meet with Utah State running back Robert Turbin. Branch: "Turbin, who attended Irvington High School in Fremont, rushed for 2,813 yards, averaged 6.2 yards a carry and scored 41 total touchdowns in his final two college seasons. Turbin is also scheduled to visit the Chiefs, Eagles, Redskins and Jets."
Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News says the 49ers released receiver Dontavia Bogan one day after Bogan indicated he had been cleared medically to return from injury. Noted: That is fairly typical in these cases. Teams often allow players to rehab from injuries at team facilities. Then, once the player is healthy, the team can release the player without the additional financial considerations that go along with injury settlements.
We touched upon San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith's participation in the search for a missing teenager. In Arizona, meanwhile, Pro Bowl safety Adrian Wilson recently donated $100,000 to Phoenix Children's Hospital.
Darren Urban of azcardinals.com has the details. Urban also quotes Wilson on football matters: "Offense sells tickets. I guess that’s the goal of marketing, sell tickets, fill the stadium up. Defensively we’ll be fine. Our secondary, our defense, we were talking about it (Wednesday night), a bunch of us guys. It's our second year, we should be trending up. We shouldn't take a step back. Everyone understands what their role is and what we need to get done."
Also from Urban: The Cardinals appear to remain interested in signing free-agent offensive lineman Demetrius Bell. Urban: "As I have mentioned before, his number of visits while remaining unsigned usually points to a salary desire that’s higher than market value. There’s always a chance that could change. Bell has reportedly visited the Packers and Redskins besides the Cards, and he’s now in Pittsburgh and has a visit lined up with the Eagles, who lost stud starter Jason Peters to a ruptured Achilles tendon during an offseason workout. Demand is climbing, so Bell might have been smart to wait. He may not leave Pennsylvania."
Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says Cardinals backup quarterback Rich Bartel attended Brock Osweiler's workout for scouts recently. Somers: "Bartel is a football junkie so he dropped by to watch. Bartel already spends his off-season coaching at camps, and he'll be a fine coach, scout, etc., whenever he's through playing."
Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times says the Seahawks let Anthony Hargrove sign with the Packers because they considered Jason Jones an upgrade at defensive tackle. O'Neil on Hargrove: "He was a mainstay in Seattle's nickel package last year, he had three sacks and his most memorable play was the tackle for a loss he had, registering a safety in New York against the Giants."
Brady Henderson of 710ESPN Seattle says it's looking like David Hawthorne will re-sign with the Seahawks on a two- or three-year contract, according to ESPN's John Clayton. Clayton: "I think that Hawthorne is starting to realize that the market may not be there."
Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer says Seahawks coach Pete Carroll came away highly impressed after studying Cam Newton's rookie performance with the Carolina Panthers.
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch checks in with former Rams punter Donnie Jones, who recently signed with the Houston Texans. Jones: "My whole thing is that you always want to go somewhere where they want you, they really want you to be a part of something. I guess in St. Louis they just didn't want that." Noted: It's rarely personal from the team's standpoint, especially when it comes to a punter, but it's almost always personal from the player's perspective.
Howard Balzer of 101ESPN St. Louis looks at how the Rams' rookie pool will affect their salary cap outlook.
Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle says the 49ers plan to meet with Utah State running back Robert Turbin. Branch: "Turbin, who attended Irvington High School in Fremont, rushed for 2,813 yards, averaged 6.2 yards a carry and scored 41 total touchdowns in his final two college seasons. Turbin is also scheduled to visit the Chiefs, Eagles, Redskins and Jets."
Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News says the 49ers released receiver Dontavia Bogan one day after Bogan indicated he had been cleared medically to return from injury. Noted: That is fairly typical in these cases. Teams often allow players to rehab from injuries at team facilities. Then, once the player is healthy, the team can release the player without the additional financial considerations that go along with injury settlements.
» AFC Assessments: East | West | North | South » NFC: East | West | North | South
Arizona Cardinals
Key additions: OL Adam Snyder, CB William Gay
Key losses: CB Richard Marshall
Sando's grade so far: C-minus. Arizona gets credit for making a strong run at Peyton Manning and securing a visit with him at Cardinals headquarters. That was a bold move and one that could have instantly transformed the Cardinals into a contending team. But it did not work. Coach Ken Whisenhunt had a point when he said the Cardinals were comfortable moving forward with Kevin Kolb and John Skelton as their quarterbacks. However, it was still telling that Arizona would aggressively pursue another quarterback eight months after allocating $12.4 million per year to Kolb. Most of the other teams making big investments in quarterbacks last offseason sat out the Manning sweepstakes.
Overall, Arizona has done little to upgrade its roster. Committing $19 million in bonus money to Snyder, Levi Brown and Kolb will not make the team $19 million better. Marshall was a valued contributor and the MVP on defense last season, according to coordinator Ray Horton. He'll be missed after signing with Miami. On the other hand, the Cardinals did win seven of their final nine games last season. Perhaps they have fewer holes than conventional wisdom suggests.
What’s next: The Cardinals need help at offensive tackle and have shown interest in Buffalo Bills free agent Demetrius Bell. The team would be fortunate to address the position before the draft. Whisenhunt has consistently defended Brown, who has played both tackle spots since 2007. The team's decision to give Brown a $7 million signing bonus as part of a streamlined contract showed Whisenhunt wasn't bluffing. But another starting tackle would help.
The Cardinals have yet to reach a long-term agreement with franchise player Calais Campbell. Getting a deal done with Campbell would reduce the defensive end's salary-cap charge ($10.6 million for now). It would reward a rising young player and head off future headaches associated with using the tag a second time next offseason.
Receiver and possibly outside linebacker are also areas where the Cardinals could use reinforcements.
San Francisco 49ers
Key additions: WR Randy Moss, WR Mario Manningham, RB Brandon Jacobs
Key losses: Snyder, WR Josh Morgan, ST Blake Costanzo
Sando's grade so far: B-plus. The 49ers had relatively few holes on their roster after a 13-3 season. Pursuing Manning provided a temporary distraction without inflicting long-term damage. The 49ers needed to keep together their core, and they accomplished that goal. Alex Smith's re-signing to a three-year deal was key. Smith will return to the team, maintaining continuity and giving the 49ers' offense a chance to build on last season. But the contract terms will not limit the 49ers' options beyond this season, a plus.
The 49ers succeeded in re-signing Pro Bowl cornerback Carlos Rogers after using the franchise tag to retain Pro Bowl safety Dashon Goldson. Those moves solidified the secondary. Addressing the situation at wide receiver was a top priority heading into free agency. Moss and Manningham were low-risk, high-reward additions. Both have the potential to provide qualities the 49ers were lacking last season, but neither carried a high price tag. Retaining receiver Ted Ginn Jr. restored firepower to the return game.
What’s next: Using the draft to improve the long-term outlook at receiver still could be an option. But with Moss, Manningham and Ginn on the roster, the 49ers should not feel pressured to select a wideout with the 30th overall choice in the draft. The team now has flexibility. There has been no indication that the 49ers or any team will seriously pursue Pittsburgh Steelers restricted free agent Mike Wallace, who reportedly wants Larry Fitzgerald money.
The 49ers could use a veteran right guard for insurance in case Daniel Kilgore isn't ready for the starting job. They have visited with Leonard Davis and Deuce Lutui, both former Cardinals. Keeping Snyder would have been nice, but the Cardinals paid a $5 million signing bonus to get him. That price was too high for the 49ers, who similarly balked last offseason when the New York Giants gave center David Baas an $8.5 million bonus.
St. Louis Rams
Key additions: CB Cortland Finnegan, C Scott Wells, DT Kendall Langford, WR Steve Smith
Key losses: WR Brandon Lloyd, P Donnie Jones, OLB Chris Chamberlain
Sando's grade so far: B. The Rams would get a higher grade for their offseason in general, but this item focuses on free agency. That excludes from consideration Jeff Fisher's hiring as head coach, and general manager Les Snead's ability to maximize value for the second overall pick in the draft. The Finnegan and Wells signings give the Rams welcome leadership while upgrading important positions. Langford should help the run defense.
The Rams have yet to address their playmaking deficiencies. They did not land any of the high-profile wide receivers in free agency. There's a chance Smith will recapture old form in his second season back from microfracture knee surgery, but the Rams are not counting on that. They will almost certainly emerge from free agency without even marginally upgrading the weaponry for quarterback Sam Bradford. That is a disappointment.
What’s next: The outlook remains bright for St. Louis. The team owns the sixth, 33rd and 39th choices in the 2012 draft, plus two first-rounders in each of the following two drafts. There will be time and opportunity for the Rams to add the offensive firepower they need so badly, perhaps with Oklahoma State receiver Justin Blackmon or Alabama running back Trent Richardson at No. 6 overall.
Much work lies ahead. The Rams emerged from this week with eight fewer players on their roster than the average for the other 31 teams. Using free agency to address holes at outside linebacker and left guard would provide flexibility heading into the draft. The Rams still need a backup quarterback as well. Bradford is the only QB on the roster. It's looking like the team is serious about bringing back right tackle Jason Smith despite injury concerns and a fat contract that will presumably require adjustment.
Seattle Seahawks
Key additions: QB Matt Flynn, DT Jason Jones
Key losses: TE John Carlson, DT Anthony Hargrove
Sando's grade so far: B-plus: The Seahawks knew for months that Manning would probably hit the market and still could not secure a meeting with him. Their pursuit included a flight by coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider to Denver in a desperation move that failed to impress Manning. That was a rare disappointment for Seattle in free agency.
Re-signing Marshawn Lynch before the signing period took off much of the pressure. Re-signing Red Bryant without using the franchise tag rewarded the Seahawks for a disciplined approach to the market. That approach paid off again when the Seahawks landed Flynn without rushing into an imprudent contract. Flynn spent five days on the market before signing with Seattle. The Seahawks got him for about half as much per season as Kolb cost a year ago, without even promising him the starting job. That was impressive.
What’s next: Quarterback and pass-rusher were Seattle's top two needs heading into free agency. Flynn solved one of them for now, at least. Jones, an inside pass-rusher signed from Tennessee, should help the other area. But the need for outside pass-rush help persists. The team could use the 12th overall choice in the draft for a defensive end.
Linebacker is another obvious position of need for Seattle. Market conditions favor Seattle's re-signing veterans David Hawthorne and Leroy Hill at reasonable rates. Both were starters last season. Hawthorne visited Detroit and New Orleans in free agency, but those teams subsequently signed other linebackers. Hill turns 30 in September, has had some off-field issues in the past and should have more value to Seattle than to another team. Still, it's an upset if the Seahawks do not address linebacker in the draft.
Arizona Cardinals
Key additions: OL Adam Snyder, CB William Gay
Key losses: CB Richard Marshall
Sando's grade so far: C-minus. Arizona gets credit for making a strong run at Peyton Manning and securing a visit with him at Cardinals headquarters. That was a bold move and one that could have instantly transformed the Cardinals into a contending team. But it did not work. Coach Ken Whisenhunt had a point when he said the Cardinals were comfortable moving forward with Kevin Kolb and John Skelton as their quarterbacks. However, it was still telling that Arizona would aggressively pursue another quarterback eight months after allocating $12.4 million per year to Kolb. Most of the other teams making big investments in quarterbacks last offseason sat out the Manning sweepstakes.
Overall, Arizona has done little to upgrade its roster. Committing $19 million in bonus money to Snyder, Levi Brown and Kolb will not make the team $19 million better. Marshall was a valued contributor and the MVP on defense last season, according to coordinator Ray Horton. He'll be missed after signing with Miami. On the other hand, the Cardinals did win seven of their final nine games last season. Perhaps they have fewer holes than conventional wisdom suggests.
What’s next: The Cardinals need help at offensive tackle and have shown interest in Buffalo Bills free agent Demetrius Bell. The team would be fortunate to address the position before the draft. Whisenhunt has consistently defended Brown, who has played both tackle spots since 2007. The team's decision to give Brown a $7 million signing bonus as part of a streamlined contract showed Whisenhunt wasn't bluffing. But another starting tackle would help.
The Cardinals have yet to reach a long-term agreement with franchise player Calais Campbell. Getting a deal done with Campbell would reduce the defensive end's salary-cap charge ($10.6 million for now). It would reward a rising young player and head off future headaches associated with using the tag a second time next offseason.
Receiver and possibly outside linebacker are also areas where the Cardinals could use reinforcements.
San Francisco 49ers
Key additions: WR Randy Moss, WR Mario Manningham, RB Brandon Jacobs
Key losses: Snyder, WR Josh Morgan, ST Blake Costanzo
Sando's grade so far: B-plus. The 49ers had relatively few holes on their roster after a 13-3 season. Pursuing Manning provided a temporary distraction without inflicting long-term damage. The 49ers needed to keep together their core, and they accomplished that goal. Alex Smith's re-signing to a three-year deal was key. Smith will return to the team, maintaining continuity and giving the 49ers' offense a chance to build on last season. But the contract terms will not limit the 49ers' options beyond this season, a plus.
The 49ers succeeded in re-signing Pro Bowl cornerback Carlos Rogers after using the franchise tag to retain Pro Bowl safety Dashon Goldson. Those moves solidified the secondary. Addressing the situation at wide receiver was a top priority heading into free agency. Moss and Manningham were low-risk, high-reward additions. Both have the potential to provide qualities the 49ers were lacking last season, but neither carried a high price tag. Retaining receiver Ted Ginn Jr. restored firepower to the return game.
What’s next: Using the draft to improve the long-term outlook at receiver still could be an option. But with Moss, Manningham and Ginn on the roster, the 49ers should not feel pressured to select a wideout with the 30th overall choice in the draft. The team now has flexibility. There has been no indication that the 49ers or any team will seriously pursue Pittsburgh Steelers restricted free agent Mike Wallace, who reportedly wants Larry Fitzgerald money.
The 49ers could use a veteran right guard for insurance in case Daniel Kilgore isn't ready for the starting job. They have visited with Leonard Davis and Deuce Lutui, both former Cardinals. Keeping Snyder would have been nice, but the Cardinals paid a $5 million signing bonus to get him. That price was too high for the 49ers, who similarly balked last offseason when the New York Giants gave center David Baas an $8.5 million bonus.
St. Louis Rams
Key additions: CB Cortland Finnegan, C Scott Wells, DT Kendall Langford, WR Steve Smith
Key losses: WR Brandon Lloyd, P Donnie Jones, OLB Chris Chamberlain
Sando's grade so far: B. The Rams would get a higher grade for their offseason in general, but this item focuses on free agency. That excludes from consideration Jeff Fisher's hiring as head coach, and general manager Les Snead's ability to maximize value for the second overall pick in the draft. The Finnegan and Wells signings give the Rams welcome leadership while upgrading important positions. Langford should help the run defense.
The Rams have yet to address their playmaking deficiencies. They did not land any of the high-profile wide receivers in free agency. There's a chance Smith will recapture old form in his second season back from microfracture knee surgery, but the Rams are not counting on that. They will almost certainly emerge from free agency without even marginally upgrading the weaponry for quarterback Sam Bradford. That is a disappointment.
What’s next: The outlook remains bright for St. Louis. The team owns the sixth, 33rd and 39th choices in the 2012 draft, plus two first-rounders in each of the following two drafts. There will be time and opportunity for the Rams to add the offensive firepower they need so badly, perhaps with Oklahoma State receiver Justin Blackmon or Alabama running back Trent Richardson at No. 6 overall.
Much work lies ahead. The Rams emerged from this week with eight fewer players on their roster than the average for the other 31 teams. Using free agency to address holes at outside linebacker and left guard would provide flexibility heading into the draft. The Rams still need a backup quarterback as well. Bradford is the only QB on the roster. It's looking like the team is serious about bringing back right tackle Jason Smith despite injury concerns and a fat contract that will presumably require adjustment.
Seattle Seahawks
Key additions: QB Matt Flynn, DT Jason Jones
Key losses: TE John Carlson, DT Anthony Hargrove
Sando's grade so far: B-plus: The Seahawks knew for months that Manning would probably hit the market and still could not secure a meeting with him. Their pursuit included a flight by coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Schneider to Denver in a desperation move that failed to impress Manning. That was a rare disappointment for Seattle in free agency.
Re-signing Marshawn Lynch before the signing period took off much of the pressure. Re-signing Red Bryant without using the franchise tag rewarded the Seahawks for a disciplined approach to the market. That approach paid off again when the Seahawks landed Flynn without rushing into an imprudent contract. Flynn spent five days on the market before signing with Seattle. The Seahawks got him for about half as much per season as Kolb cost a year ago, without even promising him the starting job. That was impressive.
What’s next: Quarterback and pass-rusher were Seattle's top two needs heading into free agency. Flynn solved one of them for now, at least. Jones, an inside pass-rusher signed from Tennessee, should help the other area. But the need for outside pass-rush help persists. The team could use the 12th overall choice in the draft for a defensive end.
Linebacker is another obvious position of need for Seattle. Market conditions favor Seattle's re-signing veterans David Hawthorne and Leroy Hill at reasonable rates. Both were starters last season. Hawthorne visited Detroit and New Orleans in free agency, but those teams subsequently signed other linebackers. Hill turns 30 in September, has had some off-field issues in the past and should have more value to Seattle than to another team. Still, it's an upset if the Seahawks do not address linebacker in the draft.
The St. Louis Rams' list of unrestricted free agents got a little shorter Thursday when longtime punter Donnie Jones reached an agreement with the Houston Texans.
Jones, 31, was generally outstanding for the Rams during five seasons with the team. He was twice a second-team Associated Press All-Pro selection.
Teammate Steven Jackson has called Jones the one Rams player he thought most deserving of the Pro Bowl.
The Rams have yet to re-sign any of their UFAs, no surprise as they break from the past and generally seek to get younger.
The Rams signed punter Tom Malone this offseason. Malone has spent time with New England, Seattle and San Francisco without playing in a regular-season game.
Dave Zastudil, Brad Maynard, Mat McBriar, Matt Turk and Daniel Sepulveda are among the UFA punters without contracts.
The chart lists the Rams' UFAs and their statuses. Brandon Lloyd and Chris Chamberlain were the only ones to sign elsewhere before Jones reached agreement with the Texans.
I'll be surprised if the Rams' new leadership re-signs more than a couple of the players listed. Most are older players. The Rams currently have the youngest roster in the NFL, slightly younger than those for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks.
Jones, 31, was generally outstanding for the Rams during five seasons with the team. He was twice a second-team Associated Press All-Pro selection.
Teammate Steven Jackson has called Jones the one Rams player he thought most deserving of the Pro Bowl.
The Rams have yet to re-sign any of their UFAs, no surprise as they break from the past and generally seek to get younger.
The Rams signed punter Tom Malone this offseason. Malone has spent time with New England, Seattle and San Francisco without playing in a regular-season game.
Dave Zastudil, Brad Maynard, Mat McBriar, Matt Turk and Daniel Sepulveda are among the UFA punters without contracts.
The chart lists the Rams' UFAs and their statuses. Brandon Lloyd and Chris Chamberlain were the only ones to sign elsewhere before Jones reached agreement with the Texans.
I'll be surprised if the Rams' new leadership re-signs more than a couple of the players listed. Most are older players. The Rams currently have the youngest roster in the NFL, slightly younger than those for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks.
Michael Robinson's expected re-signing with the Seattle Seahawks would give the team a league-high four re-signings in the unrestricted free-agent market.
Red Bryant, Paul McQuistan and Heath Farwell previously re-signed.
Seattle and the other NFC West teams have added only two UFAs from other teams, however. I've put together UFA scorecards for each team in the division. Ages are in parenthesis. Here goes ...
Seattle Seahawks
UFA unsigned (age): defensive end Raheem Brock (33), defensive lineman Jimmy Wilkerson (31), safety Atari Bigby (30), quarterback Charlie Whitehurst (29), linebacker Leroy Hill (29), linebacker Matt McCoy (29), defensive lineman Anthony Hargrove (28), linebacker David Hawthorne (26), running back Justin Forsett (26), linebacker David Vobora (25)
UFA re-signed: Farwell (30), Robinson (29), McQuistan (28), Bryant (27)
UFA added: none
UFA lost: tight end John Carlson (27)
Franchise player: none
Comment: Forsett has provided value, but the Seahawks will want to add a power back as depth behind Marshawn Lynch, who re-signed before free agency. Mike Tolbert, a free agent from the San Diego Chargers, could be worth a look if the running back market remains soft. Tolbert weighs 243 pounds, has 21 total touchdowns over the past two seasons, and caught 54 passes in 2012. The price would have to be right after Seattle committed to Lynch.
San Francisco 49ers
UFA unsigned: fullback Moran Norris (33), tight end Justin Peelle (33), safety Madieu Williams (30), quarterback Alex Smith (27), receiver Ted Ginn Jr. (26), guard Chilo Rachal (26), safety Reggie Smith (25)
UFA re-signed: cornerback Carlos Rogers (30), linebacker Tavares Gooden (27)
UFA added: none
UFA lost: guard Adam Snyder (30), linebacker Blake Costanzo (27), receiver Josh Morgan (26)
Franchise player: safety Dashon Goldson (27)
Comment: Randy Moss and potential addition Rock Cartwright do not appear in the listings because they were not unrestricted free agents. Re-signing Alex Smith and finding additional receiver help appear to be the top priorities. The 49ers are showing little outward urgency on either front, however.
Arizona Cardinals
UFA unsigned: defensive lineman Vonnie Holliday (36), kicker Jay Feely (35), long-snapper Mike Leach (35), outside linebacker Clark Haggans (35), outside linebacker Joey Porter (34), offensive lineman Floyd Womack (33), punter Dave Zastudil (33), tackle D'Anthony Batiste (29), safety Sean Considine (29), guard Deuce Lutui (28), safety Hamza Abdullah (28), tackle Brandon Keith (27), receiver Early Doucet (26)
UFA re-signed: none.
UFA added: Snyder (30)
UFA lost: cornerback Richard Marshall (27)
Franchise player: defensive end Calais Campbell (25)
Comment: The Cardinals have been in a tough spot. They would have faced criticism had they declined to pursue Peyton Manning. They could now face criticism for sacrificing the first week of free agency while waiting for Manning. The reality is that Arizona probably wasn't going to be all that aggressive in the market this offseason, anyway. It did hurt losing Marshall to the Miami Dolphins after coordinator Ray Horton called him the Cardinals' defensive MVP.
St. Louis Rams
UFA unsigned: cornerback Al Harris (37), quarterback A.J. Feeley (34), offensive lineman Tony Wragge (32), linebacker Brady Poppinga (32), punter Donnie Jones (31), offensive lineman Adam Goldberg (31), guard Jacob Bell (31), receiver Brandon Lloyd (30), cornerback Rod Hood (30), running back Cadillac Williams (29), defensive tackle Gary Gibson (29), receiver Mark Clayton (29), tackle Mark LeVoir (29), tight end Stephen Spach (29), safety James Butler (29), tight end Billy Bajema (29), quarterback Kellen Clemens (28), running back Jerious Norwood (28), linebacker Bryan Kehl (27), linebacker Chris Chamberlain (26), cornerback Justin King (24)
UFA re-signed: none
UFA added: cornerback Cortland Finnegan (28)
UFA lost: none
Franchise player: none
Comment: The Rams are not looking to re-sign many of their own free agents. They want to turn over the roster, and that is happening in a big way. The team's failure to secure playmaking help for quarterback Sam Bradford stands out as the biggest theme to this point. Finnegan was a welcome addition, but he isn't going to score many touchdowns.
The chart below shows a general overview.
Red Bryant, Paul McQuistan and Heath Farwell previously re-signed.
Seattle and the other NFC West teams have added only two UFAs from other teams, however. I've put together UFA scorecards for each team in the division. Ages are in parenthesis. Here goes ...
Seattle Seahawks
UFA unsigned (age): defensive end Raheem Brock (33), defensive lineman Jimmy Wilkerson (31), safety Atari Bigby (30), quarterback Charlie Whitehurst (29), linebacker Leroy Hill (29), linebacker Matt McCoy (29), defensive lineman Anthony Hargrove (28), linebacker David Hawthorne (26), running back Justin Forsett (26), linebacker David Vobora (25)
UFA re-signed: Farwell (30), Robinson (29), McQuistan (28), Bryant (27)
UFA added: none
UFA lost: tight end John Carlson (27)
Franchise player: none
Comment: Forsett has provided value, but the Seahawks will want to add a power back as depth behind Marshawn Lynch, who re-signed before free agency. Mike Tolbert, a free agent from the San Diego Chargers, could be worth a look if the running back market remains soft. Tolbert weighs 243 pounds, has 21 total touchdowns over the past two seasons, and caught 54 passes in 2012. The price would have to be right after Seattle committed to Lynch.
San Francisco 49ers
UFA unsigned: fullback Moran Norris (33), tight end Justin Peelle (33), safety Madieu Williams (30), quarterback Alex Smith (27), receiver Ted Ginn Jr. (26), guard Chilo Rachal (26), safety Reggie Smith (25)
UFA re-signed: cornerback Carlos Rogers (30), linebacker Tavares Gooden (27)
UFA added: none
UFA lost: guard Adam Snyder (30), linebacker Blake Costanzo (27), receiver Josh Morgan (26)
Franchise player: safety Dashon Goldson (27)
Comment: Randy Moss and potential addition Rock Cartwright do not appear in the listings because they were not unrestricted free agents. Re-signing Alex Smith and finding additional receiver help appear to be the top priorities. The 49ers are showing little outward urgency on either front, however.
Arizona Cardinals
UFA unsigned: defensive lineman Vonnie Holliday (36), kicker Jay Feely (35), long-snapper Mike Leach (35), outside linebacker Clark Haggans (35), outside linebacker Joey Porter (34), offensive lineman Floyd Womack (33), punter Dave Zastudil (33), tackle D'Anthony Batiste (29), safety Sean Considine (29), guard Deuce Lutui (28), safety Hamza Abdullah (28), tackle Brandon Keith (27), receiver Early Doucet (26)
UFA re-signed: none.
UFA added: Snyder (30)
UFA lost: cornerback Richard Marshall (27)
Franchise player: defensive end Calais Campbell (25)
Comment: The Cardinals have been in a tough spot. They would have faced criticism had they declined to pursue Peyton Manning. They could now face criticism for sacrificing the first week of free agency while waiting for Manning. The reality is that Arizona probably wasn't going to be all that aggressive in the market this offseason, anyway. It did hurt losing Marshall to the Miami Dolphins after coordinator Ray Horton called him the Cardinals' defensive MVP.
St. Louis Rams
UFA unsigned: cornerback Al Harris (37), quarterback A.J. Feeley (34), offensive lineman Tony Wragge (32), linebacker Brady Poppinga (32), punter Donnie Jones (31), offensive lineman Adam Goldberg (31), guard Jacob Bell (31), receiver Brandon Lloyd (30), cornerback Rod Hood (30), running back Cadillac Williams (29), defensive tackle Gary Gibson (29), receiver Mark Clayton (29), tackle Mark LeVoir (29), tight end Stephen Spach (29), safety James Butler (29), tight end Billy Bajema (29), quarterback Kellen Clemens (28), running back Jerious Norwood (28), linebacker Bryan Kehl (27), linebacker Chris Chamberlain (26), cornerback Justin King (24)
UFA re-signed: none
UFA added: cornerback Cortland Finnegan (28)
UFA lost: none
Franchise player: none
Comment: The Rams are not looking to re-sign many of their own free agents. They want to turn over the roster, and that is happening in a big way. The team's failure to secure playmaking help for quarterback Sam Bradford stands out as the biggest theme to this point. Finnegan was a welcome addition, but he isn't going to score many touchdowns.
The chart below shows a general overview.
» AFC Free-Agency Primer: East | West | North | South » NFC: East | West | North | South
Free agency begins Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET
Arizona Cardinals
Key free agents: DE Calais Campbell (franchise tag), CB Richard Marshall, OLB Clark Haggans, WR Early Doucet, T Brandon Keith, G Deuce Lutui, K Jay Feely.
Where they stand: A strong finish to the 2011 season on defense gives the Cardinals a glass-half-full feel heading into free agency. Going from 1-6 to 8-8 was an impressive achievement. Arizona does have serious concerns on its offensive line. The situation at tackle is particularly questionable even if Levi Brown returns (and maybe especially if he returns, depending on your view). The line concerns might actually dissipate some if the team lands Peyton Manning, a quarterback with the ability to beat pressure with quick throws. But tackle is still an area that needs addressing for the long term. Injuries throughout the offensive backfield raise questions about that area as well. Kevin Kolb (concussion), Beanie Wells (knee), Ryan Williams (knee) and Anthony Sherman (ankle) missed extensive time or played at a diminished level for stretches.
What to expect: The Cardinals are one of the teams chasing Manning. That pursuit could consume them for the short term. Landing Manning would signal the end for Kolb in Arizona. The Cardinals have until March 17 to exercise a $7 million option on Kolb, the quarterback they acquired from Philadelphia for cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a fat contract. I'm expecting a resolution to Manning's situation before the Kolb bonus comes due simply because interest in Manning should be high enough to accelerate the process. The Cardinals had about $3 million in salary-cap space entering the week, according to ESPN's John Clayton. That figure could increase substantially once the team releases Brown or reworks his contract. Arizona still has strong coaching ties to Pittsburgh on both sides of the ball, but it's an upset if the Cardinals seriously pursue any of the aging veterans recently released by the Steelers. Developing young talent is the priority now. Re-signing Marshall, who fared well at corner, should be a priority. Does free-agent linebacker Stewart Bradley still factor prominently into the team's plans, particularly at such a high price?
St. Louis Rams
Key free agents: WR Brandon Lloyd, G Jacob Bell, CB Justin King, OL Adam Goldberg, LB Chris Chamberlain, G Tony Wragge, TE Billy Bajema, WR Mark Clayton, DT Gary Gibson, P Donnie Jones.
Where they stand: The Rams have no interest in staying the course from a personnel standpoint after going 15-65 over the past five seasons. They will seek fresh talent almost across the board as Jeff Fisher's new coaching staff seeks players for its schemes. The Rams are seeking playmakers in particular, starting at wide receiver. The offensive line needs addressing, although the Rams might try to minimize the turnover at offensive tackle for the short term, figuring they cannot afford to create new needs. But former starting center Jason Brown, benched last season, appears unlikely to return. The team also needs two starting outside linebackers, starting defensive tackles and perhaps two starting cornerbacks on defense.
What to expect: Mass roster turnover. I could see the team retaining as few as one or two players from its list of 21 projected unrestricted free agents. The Rams have a disproportionate amount of their salary cap tied up in recent high draft choices Sam Bradford, Chris Long and Jason Smith. The rookie wage scale will provide them cap relief even if the team remains among the teams picking very high in the 2012 draft. Bradford and Long are cornerstones. Smith could stick around at a reduced rate. The team still has hope for him under new offensive line coach Paul Boudreau. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan and defensive lineman Jason Jones, both free agents from Tennessee, have ties to Fisher and could make sense for the Rams. Despite the need for playmakers on offense, the Rams did not use the franchise tag on Lloyd, their most talented receiver. Questions persist about how effective Lloyd might be outside Josh McDaniels' offense.
San Francisco 49ers
Key free agents: QB Alex Smith, CB Carlos Rogers, FS Dashon Goldson (franchise tag), G Adam Snyder, WR Ted Ginn Jr., WR Josh Morgan, G Chilo Rachal, FB Moran Norris, LB Blake Costanzo.
Where they stand: Coach Jim Harbaugh has said it's a bit unsettling heading through the offseason with his starting quarterback unsigned. Smith and the 49ers are expected to reach agreement eventually. This relationship will almost certainly continue even if Smith does reach free agency without a deal in place. Smith would not fit nearly as well anywhere else. Harbaugh likes to use the word "equity" when describing players he wants to keep. The 49ers would rather bring back Smith than invite the disruption that Manning would bring, were they able to land him. The team needs help at wide receiver and possibly cornerback, depending upon what happens with Rogers. Getting Goldson at the relatively reasonable franchise rate ($6.2 million) was a plus for the 49ers' continuity in the secondary.
What to expect: Not a whole lot, most likely. The 49ers were a good team last season after taking a low-keyed approach to the free-agent market. They will presumably show interest in Vincent Jackson, Mike Wallace and any high-profile, productive receiver with the talent to upgrade their offense. It's a small upset if the 49ers land one of them, however, because their philosophy is built on a measured approach resistant to overpaying. They will have to address the receiver position in free agency one way or another, however. Re-signing Morgan would help. Pierre Garcon, Marques Colston, Mario Manningham, Plaxico Burress and Robert Meachem are among the other options in free agency. An upgrade at right guard would help the line, but the 49ers might be apt to develop 2011 draft choice Daniel Kilgore after investing first-round choices in their left tackle (Joe Staley), left guard (Mike Iupati) and right tackle (Anthony Davis).
Seattle Seahawks
Key free agents: DE Red Bryant, LB David Hawthorne, LB Leroy Hill, OL Paul McQuistan, DE Raheem Brock, DL Tony Hargrove, FB Michael Robinson, RB Justin Forsett, QB Charlie Whitehurst, LB Matt McCoy, TE John Carlson, LB Heath Farwell.
Where they stand: The Seahawks' long-term quarterback situation hangs over them as they head toward the 2012 draft with only the 12th overall choice. The team has built up the rest of its roster to a point where sticking with Tarvaris Jackson as the primary starter could hold back the team to a degree it did not through much of last season. Upgrading the pass rush is another priority for the Seahawks. With defensive end Raheem Brock publicly stumping for Seattle to land Manning, his former teammate, I couldn't help but wonder which one of them had a better shot at earning a roster spot with the team in 2012. It might be Manning, even if the Seahawks are relative long shots for his services. Brock failed to provide the pass-rush push Seattle needed opposite Chris Clemons. Linebacker is another position the Seahawks need to address, whether or not Hawthorne and Hill return.
What to expect: The Seahawks have roughly $30 million in cap space, according to Clayton, and will make every effort to land Manning. They feel they've got a shot as long as they can persuade him to get on a plane and check out what they have to offer in terms of the roster, coaching, facilities, ownership and more. If Manning goes elsewhere, I would expect the Seahawks to consider Green Bay quarterback Matt Flynn. Securing him at a price lower than what Arizona paid for Kolb would be the goal. As badly as the Seahawks want to upgrade the position, they have said they will not panic. Overpaying for Flynn could represent panic in their eyes. On the pass-rush front, I'm increasingly skeptical the team will shell out for Mario Williams. The price could be too high for a player Houston has decided to let hit the market. Re-signing Bryant is a priority, but using the franchise tag for him was never an option given the $10.6 million price. A deal slightly north of the one teammate Brandon Mebane signed seems likelier if Bryant returns.
Free agency begins Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET
Arizona Cardinals
Key free agents: DE Calais Campbell (franchise tag), CB Richard Marshall, OLB Clark Haggans, WR Early Doucet, T Brandon Keith, G Deuce Lutui, K Jay Feely.
Where they stand: A strong finish to the 2011 season on defense gives the Cardinals a glass-half-full feel heading into free agency. Going from 1-6 to 8-8 was an impressive achievement. Arizona does have serious concerns on its offensive line. The situation at tackle is particularly questionable even if Levi Brown returns (and maybe especially if he returns, depending on your view). The line concerns might actually dissipate some if the team lands Peyton Manning, a quarterback with the ability to beat pressure with quick throws. But tackle is still an area that needs addressing for the long term. Injuries throughout the offensive backfield raise questions about that area as well. Kevin Kolb (concussion), Beanie Wells (knee), Ryan Williams (knee) and Anthony Sherman (ankle) missed extensive time or played at a diminished level for stretches.
What to expect: The Cardinals are one of the teams chasing Manning. That pursuit could consume them for the short term. Landing Manning would signal the end for Kolb in Arizona. The Cardinals have until March 17 to exercise a $7 million option on Kolb, the quarterback they acquired from Philadelphia for cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a fat contract. I'm expecting a resolution to Manning's situation before the Kolb bonus comes due simply because interest in Manning should be high enough to accelerate the process. The Cardinals had about $3 million in salary-cap space entering the week, according to ESPN's John Clayton. That figure could increase substantially once the team releases Brown or reworks his contract. Arizona still has strong coaching ties to Pittsburgh on both sides of the ball, but it's an upset if the Cardinals seriously pursue any of the aging veterans recently released by the Steelers. Developing young talent is the priority now. Re-signing Marshall, who fared well at corner, should be a priority. Does free-agent linebacker Stewart Bradley still factor prominently into the team's plans, particularly at such a high price?
St. Louis Rams
Key free agents: WR Brandon Lloyd, G Jacob Bell, CB Justin King, OL Adam Goldberg, LB Chris Chamberlain, G Tony Wragge, TE Billy Bajema, WR Mark Clayton, DT Gary Gibson, P Donnie Jones.
Where they stand: The Rams have no interest in staying the course from a personnel standpoint after going 15-65 over the past five seasons. They will seek fresh talent almost across the board as Jeff Fisher's new coaching staff seeks players for its schemes. The Rams are seeking playmakers in particular, starting at wide receiver. The offensive line needs addressing, although the Rams might try to minimize the turnover at offensive tackle for the short term, figuring they cannot afford to create new needs. But former starting center Jason Brown, benched last season, appears unlikely to return. The team also needs two starting outside linebackers, starting defensive tackles and perhaps two starting cornerbacks on defense.
What to expect: Mass roster turnover. I could see the team retaining as few as one or two players from its list of 21 projected unrestricted free agents. The Rams have a disproportionate amount of their salary cap tied up in recent high draft choices Sam Bradford, Chris Long and Jason Smith. The rookie wage scale will provide them cap relief even if the team remains among the teams picking very high in the 2012 draft. Bradford and Long are cornerstones. Smith could stick around at a reduced rate. The team still has hope for him under new offensive line coach Paul Boudreau. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan and defensive lineman Jason Jones, both free agents from Tennessee, have ties to Fisher and could make sense for the Rams. Despite the need for playmakers on offense, the Rams did not use the franchise tag on Lloyd, their most talented receiver. Questions persist about how effective Lloyd might be outside Josh McDaniels' offense.
San Francisco 49ers
Key free agents: QB Alex Smith, CB Carlos Rogers, FS Dashon Goldson (franchise tag), G Adam Snyder, WR Ted Ginn Jr., WR Josh Morgan, G Chilo Rachal, FB Moran Norris, LB Blake Costanzo.
Where they stand: Coach Jim Harbaugh has said it's a bit unsettling heading through the offseason with his starting quarterback unsigned. Smith and the 49ers are expected to reach agreement eventually. This relationship will almost certainly continue even if Smith does reach free agency without a deal in place. Smith would not fit nearly as well anywhere else. Harbaugh likes to use the word "equity" when describing players he wants to keep. The 49ers would rather bring back Smith than invite the disruption that Manning would bring, were they able to land him. The team needs help at wide receiver and possibly cornerback, depending upon what happens with Rogers. Getting Goldson at the relatively reasonable franchise rate ($6.2 million) was a plus for the 49ers' continuity in the secondary.
What to expect: Not a whole lot, most likely. The 49ers were a good team last season after taking a low-keyed approach to the free-agent market. They will presumably show interest in Vincent Jackson, Mike Wallace and any high-profile, productive receiver with the talent to upgrade their offense. It's a small upset if the 49ers land one of them, however, because their philosophy is built on a measured approach resistant to overpaying. They will have to address the receiver position in free agency one way or another, however. Re-signing Morgan would help. Pierre Garcon, Marques Colston, Mario Manningham, Plaxico Burress and Robert Meachem are among the other options in free agency. An upgrade at right guard would help the line, but the 49ers might be apt to develop 2011 draft choice Daniel Kilgore after investing first-round choices in their left tackle (Joe Staley), left guard (Mike Iupati) and right tackle (Anthony Davis).
Seattle Seahawks
Key free agents: DE Red Bryant, LB David Hawthorne, LB Leroy Hill, OL Paul McQuistan, DE Raheem Brock, DL Tony Hargrove, FB Michael Robinson, RB Justin Forsett, QB Charlie Whitehurst, LB Matt McCoy, TE John Carlson, LB Heath Farwell.
Where they stand: The Seahawks' long-term quarterback situation hangs over them as they head toward the 2012 draft with only the 12th overall choice. The team has built up the rest of its roster to a point where sticking with Tarvaris Jackson as the primary starter could hold back the team to a degree it did not through much of last season. Upgrading the pass rush is another priority for the Seahawks. With defensive end Raheem Brock publicly stumping for Seattle to land Manning, his former teammate, I couldn't help but wonder which one of them had a better shot at earning a roster spot with the team in 2012. It might be Manning, even if the Seahawks are relative long shots for his services. Brock failed to provide the pass-rush push Seattle needed opposite Chris Clemons. Linebacker is another position the Seahawks need to address, whether or not Hawthorne and Hill return.
What to expect: The Seahawks have roughly $30 million in cap space, according to Clayton, and will make every effort to land Manning. They feel they've got a shot as long as they can persuade him to get on a plane and check out what they have to offer in terms of the roster, coaching, facilities, ownership and more. If Manning goes elsewhere, I would expect the Seahawks to consider Green Bay quarterback Matt Flynn. Securing him at a price lower than what Arizona paid for Kolb would be the goal. As badly as the Seahawks want to upgrade the position, they have said they will not panic. Overpaying for Flynn could represent panic in their eyes. On the pass-rush front, I'm increasingly skeptical the team will shell out for Mario Williams. The price could be too high for a player Houston has decided to let hit the market. Re-signing Bryant is a priority, but using the franchise tag for him was never an option given the $10.6 million price. A deal slightly north of the one teammate Brandon Mebane signed seems likelier if Bryant returns.
Closer look at Peterson's 99-yard return
November, 7, 2011
11/07/11
7:11
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
Patrick Peterson's 99-yard punt return for a touchdown Sunday stands as the second-longest in NFL history. It should stand as the longest, but back in 1994, officials erred in allowing Robert Bailey's 103-yard return for the Los Angeles Rams against New Orleans. Everyone but Bailey appeared to think Tommy Barnhardt's punt had gone out of the end zone for a touchback. So, while the Rams' offensive players and Saints' defensive players walked onto the field, Bailey returned the ball uncontested. League officials later admitted their error, noting that offsetting penalties should have returned the ball to where the infractions occurred, right around the Rams' 15-yard line. There was nothing cheap about Peterson's 99-yarder to beat the St. Louis Rams in overtime. A look back at how it came together:
The game was over. Peterson had scored a touchdown on a punt return for the third time in his first eight NFL games, an NFL record. Only the Denver Broncos' Rick Upchurch has had more touchdowns on punt returns in the first eight games of any NFL season. He had four in 1976.
- The ball left punter Donnie Jones' foot at the St. Louis 35-yard line.
- Peterson positioned himself at the Arizona 10, just outside his left hashmark. Peterson tracked the ball initially, then sneaked a peak at the coverage teams. The Fox hangtime clock read 2.7 seconds at this point. In a split second, Peterson tilted his head upward again to track the ball. Coach Ken Whisenhunt: "To do that, with those guys screaming down the field, is very difficult. That's where he is really special."[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Ross D. FranklinArizona is hoping that Patrick Peterson is ready to develop into one of the league's top cornerbacks. - Peterson moved backward and to his left, settling at about the 3-yard line. That is where he appeared to field the ball. The hangtime clock read 4.3 seconds.
- Peterson had only his right foot on the ground as he fielded the ball. Rams running back Quinn Porter was at the 9-yard line along the yard-line numbers to Peterson's left. Rams fullback Brit Miller was on the same side of the field between the yard-line numbers and the hash at the 15. Dominique Curry, the Rams' best special-teams coverage player, was between the hashes at the 14. Rams linebacker Chris Chamberlain was between the hashes at about the 22, with Cardinals safety Rashad Johnson running with him step for step nearer the middle of the field, allowing Johnson to shield Chamberlain from Peterson initially.
- Cardinals cornerback Richard Marshall made the key block, tossing Curry to the ground back near where Peterson fielded the ball. When Curry rolled over and looked up, Peterson was already at the 6-yard line outside the hash on the other side of the field, where Porter and Miller had chased him.
- Rams defensive lineman C.J. Ah You had run wide enough to force Peterson back to the middle beginning from about the Arizona 3 just outside the Cardinals' right hash. Ah You overran Peterson.
- Rams safety James Butler was at the 15-yard line to Peterson's right. He came off his block, but missed Peterson at the 17.
- Chamberlain caught up to Peterson at the 30 just as Peterson was weaving outside the yard-line numbers to his right. Chamberlain dove, but Peterson wasn't there. Chamberlain collided with teammate Eugene Sims, who was also making a diving attempt at a tackle.
- Jones, the punter, stood at the 35 obstructing Peterson's path. Peterson was still facing forward at his own 29. With Sims reaching for Peterson's ankles and rolling to propel himself along, Peterson rotated clockwise. His back was to the middle of the field at the 31. He was moving backward when he reached the 34. That is where Jones passed by, flailing like a matador. Peterson was facing the middle of the field as he crossed the 37, giving him a clear view of an onrushing Jake McQuaide, the Rams' snapper. McQuaide was already nearing the 40 outside the hash and had the angle. Peterson continued rotating and was facing forward again by the time he reached the 39. The race was on.
- McQuaide pulled even with Peterson at the St. Louis 46 and for a moment seemed to be within striking distance. If they had been cars on a two-lane highway, McQuaide would have been the guy in the four-door sedan. Peterson, driving the Ferrari, pulled away quickly and was gone. O'Brien Schofield made sure of it, cutting between McQuaide and Peterson at the St. Louis 30.
The game was over. Peterson had scored a touchdown on a punt return for the third time in his first eight NFL games, an NFL record. Only the Denver Broncos' Rick Upchurch has had more touchdowns on punt returns in the first eight games of any NFL season. He had four in 1976.
The facts: The St. Louis Rams fell to 0-6 with a 34-7 road defeat to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 7.
The upside: Even the worst defeats tend to feature a bright spot or two.
The upside: Even the worst defeats tend to feature a bright spot or two.
- Offensive lineman Jason Smith and defensive lineman Darell Scott escaped debilitating neck injuries and were able to join the team on its flight back to St. Louis following the game. Both had been carted off the field.
- The Rams lost no ground to Arizona or Seattle in the NFC West.
- Steven Jackson appeared fully recovered from his quadriceps injury. He showed good acceleration and speed during a 40-yard run, his longest since suffering the quadriceps injury during a 47-yarder in Week 1.
- Brandon Lloyd caught six passes for 74 yards during his Rams debut.
- The Rams downed three of Donnie Jones' punts inside the Dallas 20.
- Quintin Mikell forced a fumble, with teammate Al Harris recovering.
- The Rams matched the Cowboys in third-down conversion rate (38 percent).
- The Rams held the Cowboys to a field goal on the first of two Dallas possessions that began in St. Louis territory.
- James Hall and Gary Gibson collected sacks. Rookie Robert Quinn had a quarterback hit.
- The Rams allowed only one sack, a season low after allowing 15 over their previous three games.
- Tight end Michael Hoomanawanui played extensively and had a 27-yard reception.
- The Rams are nearly finished with the most difficult portion of their schedule. They're the only team in the NFL without a division game in the first eight weeks of this season. They play five division games in six weeks beginning in Week 9, with the lone non-division game against Cleveland.
The facts: The St. Louis Rams fell to 0-4 with a 17-10 home defeat to the Washington Redskins on Sunday.
The upside: Even the worst defeats tend to feature a bright spot or two.
The upside: Even the worst defeats tend to feature a bright spot or two.
- This game came closer that previous ones this season to fitting the defensive profile the Rams established through the first half of last season. James Laurinaitis and Justin King picked off passes to help the Rams rally late. This was the team's 10th game in a row forcing a turnover. Allowing only 17 points was a step forward given the Rams' play on offense.
- Running back Steven Jackson scored the 56th touchdown of his career, moving past Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch for fifth on the Rams' all-time list. Jackson also made it through the game without aggravating his quadriceps injury.
- Punter Donnie Jones passed Dale Hatcher to become the Rams' all-time leader in punting yardage with 17,486.
- Rookie Austin Pettis caught four passes for 32 yards, converting first downs each time.
- The Rams allowed only 9.5 yards per completed pass, down from 14.4 the previous week.
- Sam Bradford did not throw an interception. No player in Rams history has a lower interception percentage on a minimum of 500 career attempts.
- Rookie Robert Quinn forced a fumble in the fourth quarter.
The facts: The St. Louis Rams suffered a 31-13 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles at the Edward Jones Dome in Week 1.
The upside: Even the worst defeats tend to feature a bright spot or two.
The upside: Even the worst defeats tend to feature a bright spot or two.
- Running back Cadillac Williams carried 19 times for 91 yards. Williams joined Marshall Faulk, Antonio Pittman and Brian Leonard as the only Rams running backs other than Steven Jackson to rush for at least that many yards in a game since Jackson entered the league in 2004. Faulk had two 100-yard games when Jackson was a rookie. Leonard had 102 yards in a 2007 game against Arizona. Pittman had 95 yards during a 2008 game against San Francisco.
- The Rams limited Eagles quarterback Michael Vick to 14 completions in 32 attempts. According to Pro Football Reference, this was the 14th time since at least 1960 that a Rams opponent had completed so few passes in so many attempts. The Rams roughed up Vick several times and forced him to hold the ball when receivers were not open.
- Steven Jackson broke free for a 47-yard touchdown run on the Rams' first offensive snap.
- Chris Long, Quintin Mikell and Justin King had sacks for the Rams. Mikell forced a fumble that James Laurinaitis recovered.
- Jerious Norwood had 49- and 29-yard kickoff returns.
- Donnie Jones had a 61-yard punt, and one downed inside the 20.
A look at my all-NFC West picks for the 2010 season, concluding with the special teams:
The chart breaks down all-division choices from 2008 and 2009, plus this season.
- Jon Ryan was the choice at punter after finishing the season with 27 punts downed inside the 20 and only one touchback. That's a sensational ratio. Ryan didn't spend half his games punting indoors, adding to degree of difficulty. The Rams' Donnie Jones and the 49ers' Andy Lee are worthy choices most years.
- Cardinals kicker Jay Feely set an NFL record by scoring 22 consecutive points for Arizona against Denver, including six on a fake field goal. That set him apart. The Rams' Josh Brown made more field goals, but Feely connected on a higher percentage than Brown or Seattle's Olindo Mare. Mare had 20 touchbacks, Feely had 16 and Brown had five. Feely was the too often the Cardinals' greatest scoring threat.
- Several candidates deserved consideration for overall special-teams play. The 49ers' Manny Lawson and Reggie Smith were consistent performers even though Lawson started all season and Smith started some of the time. Smith had 26 special-teams tackles. The Rams' Chris Chamberlain would have earned a spot, most likely, had he not missed five games. Seattle's Matt McCoy deserves mention. He and Chamberlain each had 19 special-teams tackles.
- Arizona's LaRod Stephens-Howling threatened Leon Washington as a returner for part of the season, but Washington's production on kickoff returns and punt returns set him apart. Stephens-Howling was stronger on coverage teams when opponents focused on former teammate Sean Morey. Stephens-Howling also played more on offense this season.
The chart breaks down all-division choices from 2008 and 2009, plus this season.
Seventh-round success: Obomanu re-signs
January, 14, 2011
1/14/11
5:19
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
Receiver Ben Obomanu returned to the Seattle Seahawks' wild-card playoff game Saturday after suffering a dislocated shoulder.
If all goes to plan, Obomanu will return for at least three more seasons with the team.
Seattle has announced a three-year extension for Obomanu, who scored four touchdowns and averaged 16.5 yards per catch this season.
The team recently signed fellow receiver Mike Williams to a three-year extension. Both players have taken advantage of opportunities after Seattle released T.J. Houshmandzadeh and traded another veteran wideout, Deion Branch.
Obomanu is one of several seventh-round success stories among Seattle draft choices. Tight end Cameron Morrah (2009) made a key 39-yard reception against New Orleans. Justin Forsett (2008) has played extensively at running back. Several others over the past decade -- Dennis Norman, Josh Brown, Donnie Jones, Steve Vallos and Courtney Greene -- remain active elsewhere despite their last-round status.
If all goes to plan, Obomanu will return for at least three more seasons with the team.
Seattle has announced a three-year extension for Obomanu, who scored four touchdowns and averaged 16.5 yards per catch this season.
The team recently signed fellow receiver Mike Williams to a three-year extension. Both players have taken advantage of opportunities after Seattle released T.J. Houshmandzadeh and traded another veteran wideout, Deion Branch.
Obomanu is one of several seventh-round success stories among Seattle draft choices. Tight end Cameron Morrah (2009) made a key 39-yard reception against New Orleans. Justin Forsett (2008) has played extensively at running back. Several others over the past decade -- Dennis Norman, Josh Brown, Donnie Jones, Steve Vallos and Courtney Greene -- remain active elsewhere despite their last-round status.
The nameless, faceless statistic known as field position is probably underrated in NFL analysis.
Any formula for a Seattle Seahawks upset victory over New Orleans in the NFC wild-card round should probably mention it.
Seattle's Jon Ryan, named special-teams player of the week in the NFC, helped the Seahawks control field position during a 16-6 victory over St. Louis. The Rams began four drives at or inside their 10-yard line following punts.
What could a similar performance against New Orleans mean for Seattle?
Check out the first chart, which breaks down Saints quarterback Drew Brees' production by field position (yes, the passer rating in the second row is correct despite the poor touchdown-to-interception ratio).
How do these stats compare to field-position passing numbers for other top quarterbacks?
New England's Tom Brady has no touchdowns, no interceptions and an 88.6 rating from his own 20-yard line and back. He has three touchdowns, two picks and a 92.0 rating from his own 21 to midfield.
Indianapolis' Peyton Manning has three touchdowns and 13 picks from his own 1 to midfield. The numbers flip to 30 touchdowns and four picks inside opponents' territory.
San Diego's Philip Rivers has five touchdowns and eight picks on a longer field. He has 36 touchdowns and six picks on a shorter field.
In short, bad things appear more likely to happen, particularly for Brees, when he's backed up near his own goal line.
That's where Ryan comes in.
Ryan has only one touchback all season, easily the lowest number in the league among the 27 punters with at least 19 punts downed inside the 20 (Ryan has 27, including a season-high six at Chicago).
Ryan ranks fifth in fair-catch percentage among the 33 punters with at least 20 punts this season.
Weather can make a difference for punters and kickers. Saints punter Thomas Morstead has played two cold-weather games this season, one at Cincinnati and one at Baltimore. The Bengals and Ravens averaged more than 15 yards per punt return in those games. The Saints allowed only 10 total yards on punt returns in their final two regular-season games, both indoors.
The chart ranks NFC West punters by fair-catch percentage, figuring the best return is no return from the punting team's perspective.
Any formula for a Seattle Seahawks upset victory over New Orleans in the NFC wild-card round should probably mention it.
Seattle's Jon Ryan, named special-teams player of the week in the NFC, helped the Seahawks control field position during a 16-6 victory over St. Louis. The Rams began four drives at or inside their 10-yard line following punts.
What could a similar performance against New Orleans mean for Seattle?
Check out the first chart, which breaks down Saints quarterback Drew Brees' production by field position (yes, the passer rating in the second row is correct despite the poor touchdown-to-interception ratio).
How do these stats compare to field-position passing numbers for other top quarterbacks?
New England's Tom Brady has no touchdowns, no interceptions and an 88.6 rating from his own 20-yard line and back. He has three touchdowns, two picks and a 92.0 rating from his own 21 to midfield.
Indianapolis' Peyton Manning has three touchdowns and 13 picks from his own 1 to midfield. The numbers flip to 30 touchdowns and four picks inside opponents' territory.
San Diego's Philip Rivers has five touchdowns and eight picks on a longer field. He has 36 touchdowns and six picks on a shorter field.
In short, bad things appear more likely to happen, particularly for Brees, when he's backed up near his own goal line.
That's where Ryan comes in.
Ryan has only one touchback all season, easily the lowest number in the league among the 27 punters with at least 19 punts downed inside the 20 (Ryan has 27, including a season-high six at Chicago).
Ryan ranks fifth in fair-catch percentage among the 33 punters with at least 20 punts this season.
Weather can make a difference for punters and kickers. Saints punter Thomas Morstead has played two cold-weather games this season, one at Cincinnati and one at Baltimore. The Bengals and Ravens averaged more than 15 yards per punt return in those games. The Saints allowed only 10 total yards on punt returns in their final two regular-season games, both indoors.
The chart ranks NFC West punters by fair-catch percentage, figuring the best return is no return from the punting team's perspective.
The San Francisco 49ers' Patrick Willis stands out as the only obvious choice for the Pro Bowl among NFC West players.
Willis has set a career high with 6.0 sacks this season. He has continued to excel and at times dominate against the run even after suffering a broken hand. I thought Willis was the best player on the field against St. Louis on Sunday.
Beyond Willis, however, it's tougher to make a case for NFC West players as the NFL prepares to reveal Pro Bowl rosters at 7 p.m. ET.
A quick look at each position in advance of the announcement (and let me know who should be on here):
Defensive line
The Rams' Chris Long and James Hall have consistently harassed opposing quarterbacks. They have combined for 18.5 sacks this season. Seattle's Chris Clemons has 10.5 sacks. Arizona's Darnell Dockett and San Francisco's Justin Smith earned Pro Bowl honors last season. Sacks tend to win out in this category and NFC West leaders rank down the list within the conference. Fred Robbins has played well for the Rams.
Linebacker
Willis is an obvious choice. The Rams' James Laurinaitis is having a good season, but he is not as dominant physically.
Defensive backs
The Cardinals' Adrian Wilson and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie were Pro Bowl choices last season. Neither has played to expectations this season, but Wilson has a good chance. Cardinals free safety Kerry Rhodes has four interceptions and two fumble returns for touchdowns, but Arizona's defense has struggled.
Seahawks rookie Earl Thomas has five picks, but only one in his last nine games -- while playing for a struggling defense. The Rams' Oshiomogho Atogwe has two picks and three sacks.
Quarterback
Sam Bradford played well for a rookie, but he's not at a Pro Bowl level yet. Eleven quarterbacks in the NFC have higher ratings, including Alex Smith.
Running back
Frank Gore's injury removed him from consideration. The Rams' Steven Jackson ranks third among NFC players in rushing yards, but no other player among the top 12 rushers in the conference is averaging fewer than 4.1 yards per attempt. Jackson is averaging 3.7.
Offensive line
I can't think of an offensive lineman in the division playing at that level consistently.
Wide receiver
Larry Fitzgerald is the only potential candidate in the division, but he doesn't have the numbers or team production to qualify as an automatic selection. It's a tribute to the respect he enjoys around the league if he makes it, but Greg Jennings, Roddy White, Calvin Johnson and DeSean Jackson might have the edge.
Tight end
The 49ers' Vernon Davis made it last season. Five NFC tight ends have more receptions than Davis this season. Only the Dallas Cowboys' Jason Witten has more yards and touchdowns. Both made it last season.
Return specialist
Seattle's Leon Washington leads the NFC with three kickoff returns for touchdowns. He ranks fourth in yards per kickoff return. Arizona's LaRod Stephens-Howling has two kickoff returns for touchdowns while ranking third in yards per return. But with Chicago's Devin Hester leading the league in punt-return average and punt returns for touchdowns, he'll be the natural choice.
Kicker
The Rams' Josh Brown leads the NFC in field goals with 31.
Arizona's Jay Feely made a strong case with a 25-point game against Denver.
Punter
The 49ers' Andy Lee made it last season. The Rams' Donnie Jones ranks second in the NFC in net average.
Willis has set a career high with 6.0 sacks this season. He has continued to excel and at times dominate against the run even after suffering a broken hand. I thought Willis was the best player on the field against St. Louis on Sunday.
Beyond Willis, however, it's tougher to make a case for NFC West players as the NFL prepares to reveal Pro Bowl rosters at 7 p.m. ET.
A quick look at each position in advance of the announcement (and let me know who should be on here):
Defensive line
The Rams' Chris Long and James Hall have consistently harassed opposing quarterbacks. They have combined for 18.5 sacks this season. Seattle's Chris Clemons has 10.5 sacks. Arizona's Darnell Dockett and San Francisco's Justin Smith earned Pro Bowl honors last season. Sacks tend to win out in this category and NFC West leaders rank down the list within the conference. Fred Robbins has played well for the Rams.
Linebacker
Willis is an obvious choice. The Rams' James Laurinaitis is having a good season, but he is not as dominant physically.
Defensive backs
The Cardinals' Adrian Wilson and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie were Pro Bowl choices last season. Neither has played to expectations this season, but Wilson has a good chance. Cardinals free safety Kerry Rhodes has four interceptions and two fumble returns for touchdowns, but Arizona's defense has struggled.
Seahawks rookie Earl Thomas has five picks, but only one in his last nine games -- while playing for a struggling defense. The Rams' Oshiomogho Atogwe has two picks and three sacks.
Quarterback
Sam Bradford played well for a rookie, but he's not at a Pro Bowl level yet. Eleven quarterbacks in the NFC have higher ratings, including Alex Smith.
Running back
Frank Gore's injury removed him from consideration. The Rams' Steven Jackson ranks third among NFC players in rushing yards, but no other player among the top 12 rushers in the conference is averaging fewer than 4.1 yards per attempt. Jackson is averaging 3.7.
Offensive line
I can't think of an offensive lineman in the division playing at that level consistently.
Wide receiver
Larry Fitzgerald is the only potential candidate in the division, but he doesn't have the numbers or team production to qualify as an automatic selection. It's a tribute to the respect he enjoys around the league if he makes it, but Greg Jennings, Roddy White, Calvin Johnson and DeSean Jackson might have the edge.
Tight end
The 49ers' Vernon Davis made it last season. Five NFC tight ends have more receptions than Davis this season. Only the Dallas Cowboys' Jason Witten has more yards and touchdowns. Both made it last season.
Return specialist
Seattle's Leon Washington leads the NFC with three kickoff returns for touchdowns. He ranks fourth in yards per kickoff return. Arizona's LaRod Stephens-Howling has two kickoff returns for touchdowns while ranking third in yards per return. But with Chicago's Devin Hester leading the league in punt-return average and punt returns for touchdowns, he'll be the natural choice.
Kicker
The Rams' Josh Brown leads the NFC in field goals with 31.
Arizona's Jay Feely made a strong case with a 25-point game against Denver.
Punter
The 49ers' Andy Lee made it last season. The Rams' Donnie Jones ranks second in the NFC in net average.
Around the NFC West: Bradford's status
December, 23, 2010
12/23/10
9:44
AM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch quotes Sam Bradford as saying he feels good physically heading into Week 16. Linebacker James Laurinaitis: "Sammy boy's doing fine. It's a long season. But to see him, he's still in here having fun, smiling, joking around. So Sam is doing fine. I'd expect him to say the same thing about a rookie wall -- he's going to say it's a myth." Bradford has taken hard hits in recent weeks. He limped back to the huddle at Arizona after injuring an ankle. He took a hit to the knee against Kansas City.
Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says Rams rookie Darian Stewart has been willing and able to help in multiple ways. Coats: "The 5-foot-11, 215-pound Stewart has dressed for 13 of the Rams' 15 games, including each of the last six. He's on three special-teams units: kickoff coverage, kickoff return and punt return. Lately, he's seen increased work on defense, coming in on certain packages in passing situations."
Also from Thomas: The Rams' game against the 49ers will likely be televised in St. Louis.
Nick Wagoner of stlouisrams.com provides an injury update after speaking with Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo. Wagoner: "Michael Hoomanawanui did limited work in practice. Spagnuolo said Hoomanawanui wasn’t able to get in as much work as hoped."
Also from Wagoner: more thoughts on how Bradford is handling the NFL grind. Bradford has played every offensive snap so far this season. Bradford: "Physically I feel great. I really think the weight I added in the offseason has really paid off. My body feels great. I feel probably fresher now than I did in college."
Jonathan Webb of stlouisrams.com says Donnie Jones has been among the Rams' most consistent players.
Brian Stull of 101ESPN St. Louis revisits Bradford's ability to draw the 49ers offside when the teams played earlier this season.
Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com recounts top 49ers storylines from 2010. Maiocco: "The 49ers were 0-5, and questions were being raised about Mike Singletary's job security. Team president Jed York declared Singletary was his coach, and -- furthermore -- the 49ers would win the NFC West. Bold prediction? Sure. But in the NFC West, it certainly was not inconceivable. Singletary managed to keep the locker room together. The 49ers didn't exactly heat up, they they did win five of their next nine games to get within striking range of the division crown. The 49ers' biggest win of the year up to this point was the ballot June ballot measure that gave the go-ahead for the Santa Clara stadium project to move forward. Now, if the 49ers win their final two games, and the Seahawks lose once, the team will advance to the playoffs and make good on York's guarantee."
Also from Maiocco: He expects Singletary to confirm Troy Smith as the 49ers' starting quarterback.
Taylor Price of 49ers.com looks at the team's performance on third down this season.
Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury News reflects on the 49ers' inability to keep secrets.
Daniel Brown of the San Jose Mercury News checks in with Singletary's future son-in-law: Rams safety Oshiomogho Atogwe. Yes, Atogwe admits he was initially intimidated by his future fiance's famously intense father.
Kevin Lynch of Niner Insider says there's a gap between Singletary and offensive coordinator Mike Johnson regarding the quarterback situation. Lynch: "That makes Johnson one incredibly out-of-the-loop offensive coordinator, or someone who needs to get his story straight with Singletary before he fields questions about his starting quarterback."
Eric Branch of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat says Thaddeus Lewis will make his NFL debut for the 49ers on Sunday.
Doug Farrar of Sportspress Northwest says Tampa Bay's youth movement could show the way for Seattle.
Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com checks in with Leon Washington and Mike Williams regarding which player most deserves consideration as top comeback player this season. Washington came back from a career-threatening leg injury to become one of the most dangerous returners in the NFL. Williams came back from being ... Williams. Williams: "I think that award is about guys who we really have come back, guys who were established players in this league and had a little bit of adversity and bounced back. So, Leon represents that. Wes Welker represents that. … Leon, in my opinion, is even better than I remember him in New York. Just for me, I don’t think I really came back from anything that you can really put your finger on something that I came back from. You could give me 'Comeback Couch Player of the Year.' "
Also from Farnsworth: Seahawks coach Pete Carroll wants his team to ignore playoff implications stemming from the San Francisco 49ers' game against the St. Louis Rams.
Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times quotes Carroll as saying his decision to stick with Matt Hasselbeck at quarterback has nothing to do about the team's feelings for Charlie Whitehurst. That is an impossible position to defend, in my view. If the Seahawks thought Whitehurst gave them a better chance to win, they would play him without reservation. Sticking with Hasselbeck means, at the very least, that the Seahawks do not think Whitehurst would provide an immediate upgrade from a player coming off a four-game stretch with 13 turnovers.
Dave Boling of the Tacoma News Tribune says David Hawthorne has emerged as a force at linebacker for Seattle. Led by Hawthorne, the Seahawks dramatically improved their tackling last week.
John Boyle of the Everett Herald says Carroll plans to track what's happening in the Rams-49ers game without making changes based on what he knows.
Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says losing receiver Early Doucet should not affect the Cardinals too much because Andre Roberts can slide into the No. 3 role.
Also from Somers: O'Brien Schofield has a chance to get more playing time now that Joey Porter has a strained triceps. Somers: "Schofield is determined to end 2010 on a positive note after the year started with a devastating setback. He suffered a torn left ACL in practice before the Senior Bowl in January. Schofield had 12.5 sacks as a senior, but fell in the draft because of the injury. The Cardinals took him in the fourth round but were unsure if he would contribute this season. He spent the first seven weeks of the season on the reserve-non football injury list, missing six games. Ideally, he would have missed more time, but injuries to other players forced the Cardinals to speed up the timetable." Hitting on Schofield would help offset at least some of the price associated with getting nothing from 2009 second-round choice Cody Brown.
More from Somers: John Skelton wasn't a Cowboys fan even though he grew up in Texas.
Darren Urban of azcardinals.com quotes coach Ken Whisenhunt as saying it's important for the team to keep Larry Fitzgerald, whose contract expires following the 2011 season.
Also from Urban: Schofield and rookie linebacker Daryl Washington have a chance to make positive impressions over the final two games.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Mike Sando
Sando joined ESPN.com in 2007 after nine seasons covering the Seattle Seahawks for the Tacoma (Wash.) News Tribune. He lives in the Seattle-Tacoma area with his wife and two sons.
