Adam Schefter

  (2:27 PM)

Welcome to our weekly Friday chat. Thank you all for participating. Let's try to get to as many questions as we can in the next 30+ minutes.

Matt (Toronto, ON)

Is Brandon Marshall 100% for Sunday? Half jokingly, will he ruin Miami's chemistry on offence this week?

Adam Schefter

  (2:29 PM)

Hard to imagine he's 100 percent, Matt. Don't see that. Saying that, he said he will play. But it's fair to wonder how effective he will be. Now let's not get too carried away on the Dolphins chemistry. They won one game without him in Oakland, when the offense did come to life. But Marshall still is probably their biggest weapon, even though he has not impacted Miami the same way that Santonio Holmes has impacted New York.

Kevin (Florida)

Hey Adam. Is Peterson ready to go sunday?

Adam Schefter

  (2:30 PM)

They say game-time decision, Kevin. But Peterson always has been a tough player -- I expect he'll be out there Sunday. But they want to test it before the game. Even if the Vikings have to limit him, Toby Gerhart proved last weekend to be a viable replacement.

Dan (Philly )

Chance Eagles get a cb next draft? what about a lb? who should they be looking at?

Adam Schefter

  (2:31 PM)

Dan: The Eagles are in the midst of an 8-4 season. They're vying for a first-round bye. What are you worried about who they're drafting now? Why not worry about the Cowboys a week from Sunday? Let's revisit the Eagles draft priorties after the season. Deal?

Joey (St. Louis)

What do you think about the NFC West? Rams or Seahawks?

Adam Schefter

  (2:33 PM)

I'll go with the Rams now and for the next 10 years, Joey. I say that strictly because of Sam Bradford. The Rams are the only team in the division with a quarterback for the future, their quarterback of the future. And he's really good. Bradford gives the Rams the best chance this season and in future ones. I'll take St. Louis now and for the forseeable future.

Derek Anderson (via mobile)

Schefter, I hope you put your heart and soul into this chat

Adam Schefter

  (2:33 PM)

You know it, Derek. And let me say, I'm predicting it's interception free, too.

Rick (Long Island,NY)

Hi Adam, the Broncos, one word: WHAT? How much talent is Bowlen going to let this regime get rid of before things get worse, if that's possible? They pulled the contract offer from Bailey, who still is at the top of his game...if they lose him, it's disastrous, the bleeding has to stop at some point...

Adam Schefter

  (2:34 PM)

Some tough times in Denver, Rick. The Broncos are struggling along right now. They have some good young players and as much as people are skeptical of this, Josh McDaniels is going to grow into a great head coach. The question is whether the Broncos will give him the time to do it in Denver. It could be one of those deals where, just as Bill Belichick had to go through growing pains in his first head coaching job in Cleveland before going on to greatness, Josh McDaniels might have to do the same.

jake (aurora, il)

with the nfc south having 2 teams in the race for the wildcard, and the bears with a tough remaining schedule, do you think it's possible that green bay could beat out chicago for a playoff spot?

Adam Schefter

  (2:36 PM)

Possible, Jake, yes. The Bears have been one of this season's strongest teams and one of its most surprising. Its scoring defense has been very impressive. But Green Bay is right there with the Bears and keep in mind that Chicago needs to build a cushion. It closes the season Jan. 2 in Green Bay.

Matt (NC)

Adam, you're the man. Your thoughts/guess on who is coaching the Broncos next year? Thanks!

Adam Schefter

  (2:37 PM)

My guess is Josh McDaniels, Matt, at least for right now. Don't feel great about that prediction, and it will not surprise me if Mr. Bowlen decides to make a change. But I just think that he then would be paying three coaches next year during a potential work stoppage, and I don't see that happening. Plus, the Broncos gutted their roster to rebuild with the talent that McDaniels wanted. If they make another coaching change, it will set back the franchise. I think McDaniels stays. But I'm not convinced of it.

Chris (Disguised FF Question)

As one of the most connected reporters in the NFL, what have you seen or heard about Big Ben's mobility? Even though the Ravens defense is not playing like years past, do you think they will go after Ben knowing he cant run?

Adam Schefter

  (2:38 PM)

Thanks for the kind words, Chris. My taken on Ben is that he is as tough to tackle as an oak tree, whether or not his foot is bothering him. He probably will not look to run as much, but in a game of this magnitude, where so much is on the line, I don't see the injury greatly impacting the way Ben plays or performs.

Brooke (STL)

What's your reasoning behind picking the Cardinals to beat the Rams this week?

Adam Schefter

  (2:39 PM)

The Rams have won only one road game this season, Brooke, last weekend. Short of that, they have not been the same team on the road as at home. And I still think the Rams are the favorite to win the division. But I think this will be a tough matchup this weekend. Arizona is not going to play the way it did on Monday night again.

Motivational Speaker, Matt Foley (A van down by the River)

Could Tamme's rise coupled with Clark's injuries/contract lead the Colts to a decision to "cut" or trade Clark?

Adam Schefter

  (2:42 PM)

Matt: It gives Indianapolis some options down the line, that's fair to say. Tamme has developed into the game's most productive tight end right now (at least with Antonio Gates hobbled). He's not the blocker that Clark was, but he has been very impressive. Don't think the Colts are willing to give up on Clark, no matter how much he might make. But he has to have them thinking about their options in the future.

Shawn (raleigh,nc) [via mobile]

With the panthers being the worst in the league who would be a good coaching fit after this year?

Adam Schefter

  (2:44 PM)

Shawn: Whoever gets that job very well could have the chance to coach Stanford QB Andrew Luck -- if he comes out. It's a dream situation for any coach. Luck has the chance to make some coach look very good for years to come. Russ Grimm's name has come up in connection with the job. Don't see the Panthers spending the money it takes to get Bill Cowher. But if Luck comes out, the Panthers have a recruiting tool better than anything that Jerry Jones or any owner could offer.

Tod (Arizona)

The Cards had a nice run the last few years. Does a quality QB get us back in the mix or do we need more than that?

Adam Schefter

  (2:45 PM)

A quality quarterback changes everything, Tod. It was why I thought Arizona should have signed Marc Bulger last off-season. He was the perfect replacement for Kurt Warner. Bulger will be a free-agent again this off-season. Arizona should sign him to a two-year contract and draft another quarterback high up. Then it will have those two quarterbacks, plus John Skelton and Max Hall. Something has to come out of that mix.

Waffles Cortez (Boston MA)

It seems in all the chaos that has become Broncoville, only a few stark similiarities exist between the Shanahan and McDaniels eras. Most striking is the middling results, but aren't these a product of dubious personnel decisions and lack of a Defensive Line (two other similiarities)? To these ends, what can be done to finally get Pat Bowlen and Joe Ellis to install a legitimate GM to help shape the roster and provide some much needed balance? FWIW, this is precisely what Bowlen stated they would do after dismissing Shanahan but soon abandoned before hiring McDaniels. Also, would a guy like Phil Savage in that sort of GM role make sense for the organization? He was a rising star before getting a raw deal in Cleveland, and would have the sense to address the Defensive side of the ball (O has never been a problem in Denver). Thanks and long live the Sushi Den!

Adam Schefter

  (2:47 PM)

Waffles: I think you hit on something. The Broncos hired McDaniels for the coach that he has been, not his experience running an organization. And they have a good general manager in Brian Xanders. But they needed a senior voice, an experienced front office person to guide McDaniels and Xanders as they learned on the job. Whoever it was could have helped avert some of the mistakes that have been made. What has happened in Denver doesn't mean that McDaniels is a bad coach. He just didn't have the ideal circumstances.

Pete (San Antonio)

Does Romo make it back this year? If you say yes, I'm taking it to the bank.

Adam Schefter

  (2:48 PM)

Why would they bring him back, Pete? There's no reason to. They're not going to make the playoffs. They'll only subject him to a setback. I know Romo wants to play, and his fans would like to see him, but for what? Romo needs to sit down and make sure he's as healthy as possible for 2011.

Jeff (Buffalo)

Is P Thomas NO really healthy enough to play this week ?

Adam Schefter

  (2:48 PM)

He says he's 90 percent, Jeff. But I think in this case, with this player, you have to wait until you see him on the field before you can believe it.

Matt Berland (Carson City)

Adam, is it Luck or bust for the Panthers barring less than a number 1 pick?

Adam Schefter

  (2:49 PM)

Correct, Matt. And if the team drafting No. 1 doesn't want Luck, believe me, there will be a handful of teams will ing to part with many picks that will.

Casey ((FF Clinchville))

Is David Garrard going to be the MVP of Fantasy Football Playoffs? He finishes with Colts, Skins, and Texans.

Adam Schefter

  (2:50 PM)

Decent chance, Casey. But there have been some real fantasy studs this year, starting with Michael Vick. Garrard has a real chance to have a great finish. And let's not forget that he also will have the chance to lead the Jaguars to an AFC South title.

Scott (Westchester)

Good afternoon, Adam. With the NFC West right now completely up in the air, who do you see coming out on top and do you think it comes down to Week 17 (rams-hawks, cards-49ers)?

Adam Schefter

  (2:50 PM)

Well, Scott, in week 17, St. Louis does play at Seattle. And it may well come down to that game. Wouldn't surprise anyone. Again, I'll stick with St. Louis.

Tim (Louisville)

Adam,Is it too late for Green Bay to get a decent RB? Will they win the North and still maybe make it to the Super Bowl?

Adam Schefter

  (2:51 PM)

A little late here, Tim. The time for this question was in early October, before the trade deadline. Or last April, before the draft. Or even late in the summer, when there were backs such as LeGarrette Blount on the street. But to find a running back that can contribute this season now? Good luck on that one.

Frank Costanza (Queens, NY)

How did the Broncos trade Brandon Marshall and Why'd the Yankees trade Jay Buhner for Ken Phelps

Adam Schefter

  (2:52 PM)

Denver happened to have gotten two second-round picks back for Marshall, which is a fair price considering that the Ravens gave up a three- and four for Anquan Boldin, and the Jets gave up a fifth for Santonio Holmes. Now as for the Buhner-Phelps trade, I can't help there. Hated that trade when it came down and it doesn't look any better all these years later, Frank.

Pete (Charlotte)

Adam, to be clear, your report does not suggest that Carolina is/has spoken to Grimm about the HC position? Wouldn't that be tampering? Also, do you think Ron Rivera would be a candidate, and possibly former Panther Jim Harbaugh?? Lots of ties between Harbaugh and Carolina - Marty Hurney, Brian Baker, Beathard's son...etc

Adam Schefter

  (2:54 PM)

No, Pete, my report simply implies that Carolina has considered Russ Grimm and it won't surprise me to see the Panthers interview him after this season. Can't talk to him now; not allowed. Ron Rivera also is another superb candidate and worthy choice. He's done a great job with the Chargers defense and has been ready for a head-coaching gig for a while now. As for Harbaugh, I don't see the Panthers spending the money it would take.

jason (NC)

Who are your rookies of the year thus far? It seems a down year for rookies.

Adam Schefter

  (2:55 PM)

The top two picks, Jason. Quarterback Sam Bradford and DT/kicker Ndamukong Suh. Those will be most people's rookies of the year.

Jarell (Florida)

Adam, gut feeling, the lockout will not effect the start of next season?

Adam Schefter

  (2:56 PM)

Gut feeling, Jarell? It will. But I really hope I'm wrong, and there's a lot at stake, and hopefully everyone will recognize it.

Chris Berman's last few hairs (Bristol)

Adam, who has more time, me or Carson Palmer as QB of the Bengals.

Adam Schefter

  (2:56 PM)

Carson Palmer, Mr. Hairs. Think you left the scene a while back.

Peter (Charlotte)

Luck plus Harbaugh in Carolina next year?? Captain Comeback made his last stop here, plus he has a lot of ties to the current Carolina organization, most importantly - Marty Hurney. What do you think?

Adam Schefter

  (2:57 PM)

If I were Jim Harbaugh, and could coach my quarterback in the NFL, I'd jump at the chance. But something tells me he'll have more lucrative offers elsewhere. So it will be up to him to decide what's more important in his life. Living in a city he desires, making more money; or coaching Luck again in Carolina.

jason (NC)

Do you really see the Panthers taking Luck when they just drafted a QB in Clausen? Dont you think they'll give him a chance to develop? Also, what do they do with DeAngelo. Looks like Goodson is a good player to pair with JStew, DeAngelo's time is done in Carolina, no?

Adam Schefter

  (2:58 PM)

Jason: Are you that sold on Jimmy Clausen being a franchise savior? If the answer is yes, you look to trade the pick. If not, you don't even hesitate. Luck.

Mitch (NY)

Do the Giants and Eagles both make the playoffs?

Adam Schefter

  (2:58 PM)

Tough, Mitch. Looks like the Bears and Packers come out of the North, and the Falcons and Saints come out of the South. Don't see a spot for both the Eagles and the Giants. For now, looks like one or the other.

Ted (Charlotte)

Jim Harbaugh for HC in Carolina! Makes more sense than Grimm adn the Nascar connection!

Adam Schefter

  (2:59 PM)

Lot of Jim Harbaugh/Panthers/Andrew Luck talk today, Ted. Didn't realize Carolina was already on the clock. Impressive.

Paul (Hershey PA)

Do all of the owners truly back Goodell on the inconsistencies in the amounts of the fines that have levied?

Adam Schefter

  (2:59 PM)

Doesn't sound like Art Rooney does, Paul. And that's just one man sounding off. I'm guessing there are others.

stacy (georgetown,ky)

does dallas get bill cowher?

Adam Schefter

  (3:00 PM)

Dallas does not get Cowher, Stacy. As good of a salesman as jerry Jones is, don't think he can close that deal. But we'll see.

Matt (Toronto, ON)

Thanks for the chat, always look forward to your work... Who do you like as your contenders this year? Is the NFC gaining steam now or do you fell that the champ comes out of the AFC?

Adam Schefter

  (3:02 PM)

Thank you for the kind words, Matt. The great part about this season is, there are really about 8 or so teams worthy of winning it all. I think we'll know a lot more after the Sunday night and Monday night games this week. But in a season full of surprises, don't be surprised if we get a surprise Super Bowl such as San Diego vs. Philadelphia or something of that sort. Very little has gone to plan this regular season and something tells me it won't change in the post season. There will be surprises.Anyway, thank you all for your questions. I apologize to those I didn't get to and hope I get to yours next week. Until then, have a good weekend, enjoy the games Sunday, and please tune into Sunday NFL Countdown at 11 a.m. EST. Thanks -- Adam