08/31/04
- [Tampa Bay Buccaneers] The Buccaneers went from having two Huskers on the roster to having zero in one day of transactions. S Scott Frost and LS John Garrison were both cut by Tampa Bay on Tuesday.
- [Dallas Cowboys] The Cowboys cut OT Dave Volk, their Iron Man specialist (played defense because of injuries). The Cowboys needed to get down to the league limit of 65, plus eleven players who are exempt because they played in NFL Europe, Volk was allocated to NFL Europe in the Spring but was still cut.
- [Washington Redskins] Another surprise cut was CB Ralph Brown who had signed with the Redskins after the Giants chose to let him go to free agency. Brown was offically the final cut made by Washington. (WTOP)
- [San Diego Chargers] DT Ryon Bingham- was not cut- however he was placed on injured reserve after having surgery for a torn biceps, which effectively ends his rookie season. Bingham was a 7th round draft choice for the Chargers.
- [Seattle Seahawks] Grant Wistrom Interview.
- [San Diego Chargers] P Bill Lafleur has been cut by the Chargers. Last season Lafleur was with the 49ers, and was on the Chargers practice squad in 2002.
- [San Diego Chargers] Chargers waive punter LaFleur.
- [CFL-Edmonton] The Edmonton Eskimos bolstered their Canadian content Tuesday, acquiring defensive linemen Clinton Wayne and Patrick Kabongo from the Ottawa Renegades for a first- and second-round pick in the 2005 CFL Canadian college draft and the rights to Korey Banks, a defensive back from Mississippi State.
Kabongo joins Demoine Adams as Huskers on the Eskimos' roster, Adams is on the practice squad.
- [CFL] Kabongo traded to Edmonton.
- [CFL-Edmonton] ...speaking of Edmonton...
The Canadian Press reports that the Eskimos could bolster their Canadian content with the addition of Dahrran Diedrick or Toronto, since he has been released by Green Bay, also fullback Deitan Dubuc of Fabreville, Que., who was looking to crack the Houston Texans' lineup as a tight end. Edmonton took Diedrick in the third round of the 2002 Canadian college draft and therefore have rights to him should he choose to play in his home-country.
PRESEASON WEEK 3: Stats, Stories & Pictures
08/30/04
- [Cincinnati Bengals] From Marvin Lewis' Monday press meeting--
Q. "Was Kyle Larson’s performance encouraging enough that you won’t bring in another punter?"
A. "Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. We have a lot to get better with in our punting game. Numbers do not tell how a guy really performs, and we know that in every area of our football team. That really is not a functional part of it, there is a lot to get done, and he has to get better. We have to get better as a football team, both punting and covering the football."
- [Fantasy Football] Seahawks K Josh Brown is the best kicker most people have never heard of. I attribute that to his name; it’s just so…vanilla. But you’d be wise to remember it on draft day, as he’s sure to rack up points behind the Seahawks’ prolific offense. He had a solid rookie season in ‘03 and showed off his big leg with field goals of 50 and 52 yards in Friday’s win over San Diego. (Ladd Biro- Dallas Morning News)
- [New York Giants] Undrafted rookie LB T.J. Hollowell left practice early on Monday because of cramps.
- [Seattle Seahawks] Kicker Josh Brown had what he referred to as his "best worst kicking day" in Friday's win over the San Diego Chargers.
Brown nailed field goals from 52 and 50 yards, but also missed a routine extra point. The 25-year-old kicker, who made good on all 48 point-after attempts as a rookie last season, blamed himself for using improper technique on Thursday's miss.
"They're all important, but it wasn't the regular season," Brown said. "You don't want to take preseason lightly, but if it's going to happen, that's a good time for it to happen." (Herald Net)
- [Cincinnati Bengals] Rookie punter Kyle Larson finally got off some productive kicks. The undrafted free agent from Nebraska ended up punting seven times for a 47.4-yard average, including a net average of 40.7 yards. He mishit his first two punts, although the knuckleball he kicked on his first attempt took a fortuitous bounce and went for 57 yards before being downed at the Atlanta 4-yard line.
It was all about focusing and making some adjustments.
"My first punts I wasn't happy with, but I finished it out all right," Larson said. "I started off the same way I did in last week's game, pushing the ball inside and holding my head a little bit...I just focused on keeping my head down and swinging up and through the ball. I had been pushing the ball inside, so that helped."
Larson entered the game averaging 40.4 yards with a net average of 30 yards. (Cincinatti Post)
The Bengals are believed to have entertained a few free agent punters late last week at Paul Brown Stadium. Apparently among them was former New England punter Ken Walter, a seven-year veteran.
The Bengals are expected to stick with Larson, depending on performance, for at least the next couple of weeks. (Cincinnati Enquirer)
- [Green Bay Packers] Cut-downs have begun and, surprisingly, Packers RB Dahrran Diedrick was the first NFL Husker to be released. It is not unlikely that he will eventually be signed by another team or even re-signed to the Packers' practice squad.
- [Atlanta Falcons] Pat Ricketts was cut earlier this preseason, only to be re-signed by the Falcons two weeks ago (8/17) and now, he is cut again. This time as part of NFL cut-downs- teams must trim rosters to 65 by Tuesday.
08/29/04
- [Cardinals vs Raiders] Saturday's game marked the first time Oakland's offensive line allowed a sack in three games. The Raiders allowed two sacks in the first half, with the first of those a doozy.
Left offensive tackle Barry Sims proved helpless as Cardinals defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch shoved off, around and past Sims on his way to a clean shot at quarterback Rich Gannon. Vanden Bosch delivered a ferocious blindside hit. (Knight Ridder Newspapers)
The sack came on 3rd and 8 and forced the Raiders out of field goal position on their opening drive. (AZCardinals.com)
- [Packers vs Jaguars] A 9-yard completion from Doug Pederson to running back Dahrran Diedrick was canceled by a holding penalty on Packers tackle Kevin Barry. (PackersNews.com)
- [Giants vs Jets] Tom Coughlin kept Eli Manning in the game when the fourth quarter rolled around and Trevor Johnson hammered him in the back on a long incompletion. Ryan Van Dyke relieved Manning with 9:15 left. (Newsday.com)
- [Kansas City Chiefs] Favorite son: Throughout his life and career, Shields manages to stay close to his roots.
- [New England Patriots] Massive Hochstein won't joust with smart alecks
- [Kansas City Chiefs] Lincoln: Land of linemen.
- [Olympics] Rulon Gardner mulling his career options
08/28/04
- Green's value rises with elite status.
- [Seahawks vs Chargers] Seattle kicker Josh Brown went 2 for 2 on field goal attempts of 52 and 50 yards. (San Diego Union-Tribune)
- [Packers vs Jaguars] The Packers got a scare late in the second quarter when Ahman Green remained on the ground after a 5-yard carry up the middle. Trainers rushed onto the field and examined Green's left knee before the Pro Bowl running back, who rushed for 1,883 yards and 15 TDs last season, got up on his feet and walked to the sideline with what the Packers said was a bruised kneecap.
"When he took that hit on his knee, it moved his kneecap just a little bit," Packers coach Mike Sherman said. "It scared him, as well as myself. He could have gone back into the game, but we held him out." (AP)
- [Bengals vs Falcons] P Kyle Larson had struggled in his first two games, averaging 40.4 yards total and just 30.0 net yards on five punts. Before the game, the Cincy Post reported that "the Bengals could be combing the waiver wire for punters if Larson doesn't have a good game." In fact, Ken Walter was reportedly in town on Thursday for a workout and may sign a contract as soon as Sunday.
The Cincinnati Enquirer noted that Larson "could help himself with a solid showing"
On Saturday Larson did have a strong showing, punting 7 times with an average of 47.4 and a long of 52, putting one kick inside the 20 yard-line.
- [Seattle Seahawks] Defensive end Grant Wistrom is scheduled to practice on Sunday, the first time since training camp opened. Wistrom has been sidelined after injuring a tendon in his foot during the final minicamp in June. (Seattle Post-Intelligencer)
- [Tampa Bay Buccaneers] Scott Frost is trying to take Howell's spot as a backup safety and special teams dynamo. Frost made a big hit on a kickoff against the Cincinnati Bengals and has done enough at safety in two preseason games to get recognized by the Bucs coaches.
"I know in the first game he had a tackle," said Bucs special teams coach Rich Bisaccia. "I know he played his butt off this week, played lot of defense. He knows he has a he has a chance to make it. He's competing, fighting on defense and special teams, too."
Frost, 29, is trying to hang on with his fifth NFL team. He played four games for the Bucs last year, primarily on special teams. However, he knows that despite playing well so far, he might still be without a job in the next couple of weeks.
"Obviously you draft someone like Will Allen, he's going to be around," Frost said. "They've invested some money in him, so they expect him to be a good player. That hypes up the competition level. I've been busting my tail the best I can."
Frost has played both safety spots, backing up Dwight Smith and Jermaine Phillips. "I've played half the time at strong (safety) and half at free (safety). They keep juggling us back and forth, keeping us on our toes, because we never know where we're going to have to play," Frost said. "If you're playing one side, you have to know the rules for the other side."
Frost said he doesn't know what else he has to do to make the team. There are no rigid requirements, other than the coaches' subjective evaluations. "I really don't know. I'm going out, trying as hard as I can every day. I think I've shown that I can contribute in some ways," Frost said. "I'm getting better every day that I'm here. Hopefully, they'll see it that way. I'd love to be on this team." (Herald Tribune)
- [NBA-Lakers] Nate Johnson, formerly a member of the USBL's Kansas Cagerz, signed with the Los Angeles Lakers; terms of the contact were undisclosed due to team policy. Johnson was named to the USBL's All-Rookie team and was the runner up for the Rookie of the Year award. "He earned the chance, and it's really the last step before you make an NBA team," Los Angeles Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said. "He's a good kid, a very keen competitor. We see Nate primarily as a ball-handling guard. He did a nice job this summer of that. Really, that's why he has this opportunity. We'll see if he can keep it up in training camp. If so, teams usually find a way to keep a player like that." (USBL Press Release)
08/27/04
- [Houston Texans] Lord tries to improve as safety in NFL.
- [NBA] Nate Johnson headed to Lakers training camp.
08/26/04
- [Cincinnati Bengals] Rookie Kyle Larson, the only healthy punter in camp, showed significant improvement in special teams work Wednesday morning. Still, club officials are waiting to see it in a game and are wondering, in general, why so many successful college punters have trouble replicating their success in the NFL. (Cincy Enquirer)
- [Denver Broncos] Sixth-round pick Josh Sewell appears to be headed to the practice squad as he might fall victim to a numbers game. Denver may keep just two centers, thus Sewell may not have a spot. But he looks like a logical candidate for the newly expanded eight-man practice squad. (Denver Post)
- [Oakland Raiders] Hard-working, no-nonsense defensive tackle John Parrella rarely shows much emotion. He displayed enough one day to last the season. Parrella played in an enraged state this day, slamming running back Justin Fargas to the ground on one play, chasing down whoever touched the ball, punishing anyone who dare get in his way. Asked later about his play, Parrella said: "Just doing my job." (Contra Costa Times)
- [St. Louis Rams] Guard Chris Dishman has made considerable progress since arriving at training camp weighing 375 pounds. Dishman immediately took on a serious diet, dropping 21 pounds in about two weeks to get to the svelte 354 he weighs now.
He said Wednesday that he needs to drop another 20 or so pounds to get to the point where he can play at his best. "It’s only been two week since I came into camp, so it’s still going to take a couple more weeks," Dishman said. "The wind and everything was there, it’s just I’m slower moving off the ball than I’m used to. I think that has to do with being overweight and not working out since May. "I need to get down another 15-20 pounds and I don’t know how long that is going to take. The first 20 would be easy, but I’m not sure what the next 20 will be like."
Dishman started at left guard against Kansas City and played 51 snaps before his night ended. He came to the Rams from Arizona early in training camp, and after the injury to Wohlabaugh, became an instant contender for the starting spot at left guard vacated by center Andy McCollum. Dishman said the injuries along the line make it important for the offensive line to begin to jell. "We only have like a week and a half of training camp left and then we’re ready to roll," Dishman said. "We have to iron it out and click. I think we can get it done. We have to get it done." (StLouisRams.com)
- [CFL-Montreal] Alouette S Barron Miles needs five interceptions to move past Ed Learn and into second place on Montreal's all-time list with 35. (Winnipeg Sun)
- [NBA] Nate Johnson Signs With Lakers.
08/25/04
- [Olympics] Four years after his astonishing push to gold, Greco-Roman wrestler Rulon Gardner of the United States takes bronze at 264 and a-half pounds.
Then Gardner also untied his shoes and, with tears on his face, left the shoes in the center of the ring---a traditional sign of retirement.
Gardner beat Sajad Barzi of Iran 3-0 in his final match after being upset in the semifinals by Georgi Tsurtsumia of Kazakhstan. After leaving his shoes on the mat, Gardner cried and blew kisses to the crowd as he walked around the arena holding an American flag. (AP)
- [St. Louis Rams] Chris Dishman is rounding into shape at left guard but still has a way to go.
"I think Big Dish is going to be fine," head coach Mike Martz said. "He's obviously a few weeks away from being ready physically. He's really out of shape, but he's light years ahead of where he was when he came in. ... He played much better (against Kansas City) than I thought he would at this point." (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
At a press conference Martz added: "You have to figure that G Chris Dishman has made tremendous progress at this point. You figure in another two weeks he will continue to improve. Here is a guy that has played the game quite a bit." (StLouisRams.com)
- [St. Louis Rams] St. Louis Rams starting cornerback Travis Fisher underwent surgery for a broken arm and it is unknown when he might return. DeJuan Groce will move in as the starter in Fisher's absence. (SportsNetwork)
"It just gives someone else an opportunity, like CB DeJuan Groce or CB Kevin Garrett, to step in there and take charge. That’s what they are here for. They get paid for this opportunity. They need to make the most of it, and I’m sure they will." (StLouisRams.com)
- While Fisher is out, Groce is questionable to play after injuring his knee this preseason, when asked how he is coming along Martz said: "I think he is (making progress). I’m not sure we will have him this week, but we should have him next week. We could possibly have him this week, but I don’t know. He’ll start his running tomorrow. I think the swelling is out of the knee at this point. It’s not as sore, so we’ll see where he is. It’s a day to day thing. If he is not ready, he is not ready. Then we go with CB (Dwight) Anderson and whoever is ready to play. Everything is about getting ready for our opener. That’s what we have in mind."
- Martz's comments on how Groce and CB Kevin Garrett have looked in camp: "They both had very good camps. In fact, Kevin had a better camp than I would have thought. He had the furthest to go, just in his skills and his background. He didn’t have the discipline. DeJuan was a little more refined, and I thought Kevin caught up. It was hard for us to determine who had the edge. That’s good news. We’ll just have to see. Not having DeJuan here this week, I’m not really sure (who has the advantage). We’ve been in this situation before with J.B. (CB Jerametrius Butler), and even (CB Travis Fisher)."
- [Dallas Cowboys] Shanle trying not to get comfortable: Former Nebraska linebacker Scott Shanle was one of the biggest surprises of training camp, but that doesn’t mean he has job security. Shanle, who joined the Cowboys after being released by the Rams in December, caught Parcells’ attention early in camp.
Playing behind Al Singleton, Shanle looked strong against the run. He said his biggest concern is learning the Cowboys’ zone pass coverage. At Nebraska, Shanle said he lined up 80 percent of the time opposite of the tight end.
"I was always in one-on-one coverage," Shanle said. "So it was pretty easy. Now, I’ve got a lot more to think about." (CowboysPlus.com)
- [Olympics] Rulon Gardner's goodbye: Everything left on the mat.
- [Olympics] Rulon Gardner Ends His Olympic Run.
- [New Orleans Saints] Craver cleans out his locker.
- [Olympics] Vering's dream sinks in pool.
- Taste of coaching with Broncos whets Neil Smith's appetite
- [Olympics] 44-year-old Merlene Ottey (Slovenia), the grand lady of the track progressed to the semi-finals in the second round of the women's 200m, at her seventh Olympics. (The Courier-Mail)
"She is simply amazing," said Olympic athlete Leander Paes of India, who also counts Merlene Ottey as one of his all-time favourites. "God I cannot believe it, she is here for her seventh Olympics and I have been to only four." (Hundustan Times)
08/24/04
- [Kansas City vs St. Louis] Backup KC safety Clint Finley had an interception chance bounce right off his chest late in the third quarter. (Sports Illustrated)
- [New Orleans Saints] ESPN's Len Pasquarelli reports-- Barring a successful appeal, New Orleans Saints cornerback Keyuo Craver faces a season-long suspension for a repeat violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy.
The 3rd-year veteran was suspended four games in 2003 for a similar violation. This violation is believed to be his third. Craver cleaned out his locker at the Saints complex on Monday. Craver will forfeit his entire $380,000 base salary for 2004 and must apply for reinstatement after meeting the NFL's conditions for his return. Craver has not appealed the season-long suspension and Tuesday is the deadline for doing so.
Citing the confidentiality element of the substance abuse program, league and Saints officials declined to comment specifically on Craver's latest misstep. But coach Jim Haslett stopped just short of confirming the suspension. "I'm more disappointed in the person himself than for our football team," Haslett told the New Orleans Times-Picayune. "We put a lot of trust as a football team in a guy like that, and it didn't work out."
- Craver faces deadline to appeal violation.
- [Olympics] Merlene Ottey, competing in her seventh Olympic Games, Monday qualified for the women's 200 meters semi-finals here, Xinhua reports.
The 44-year-old Jamaican, now representing Slovenia, clocked 23.07 seconds to finish 14th overall in the second round.
Jamaica's Veronica Campbell led the field in 22.49 seconds, followed by Bahamas' Debbie Gerguson in 22.53.
Ottey was pleased after reaching the next phase.
"Physically, mentally, it's tough, but it's great to me back here at the Olympics. I'm very happy that I did qualify," she said.
- [Cincinnati Bengals] Kyle Larson is now the only healthy punter in training camp after Eddie Johnson was released and incumbent Kyle Richardson tore a biceps muscle in the preseason opener. (Cincinnati Enquirer)
Johnson punted three times in the preseason for an average of 35.7 yards. But Kyle Larson shouldn't feel any safer just because Johnson was cut. Larson has struggled since Kyle Richardson was injured against the Buccaneers. Larson has averaged 40.4 yards per punt on five punts in two games. (Cincinnati Post)
- For the Mannings, the first family of NFL quarterbacks, Eli's trade-me-or-else ultimatum to the San Diego Chargers was very un-Manning-like. And the NFL noticed.
"It's against what the Manning family has been," Redskins cornerback Ralph Brown said. "If you are that good, you should be able to go to San Diego and turn them around. For him not to be happy San Diego drafted him, it's a slap in the face for everybody that is working hard to be in the NFL and appreciates the game.
"He has a lot to prove, and defensive guys are going to go after him because of that." (Star-Telegram)
- [Green Bay Packers] QB Doug Pederson threw a 35-yard touchdown strike to first-year wide receiver Wilson Thomas during Monday's practice. (Packers.com)
- [Atlanta Falcons] MLB Jamie Duncan's injury moved Artie Ulmer from strong side to the middle. Head Coach Jim Mora and his assistants like fourth-round pick Demorrio Williams, who had consecutive sacks of third-string Minnesota quarterback Shaun Hill in the fourth quarter.
Though the team lists Williams at 232 pounds, Mora said the rookie is really 220 and thus too light to play middle linebacker. Williams, a former Nebraska standout, continued Monday to work behind three-time Pro Bowl selection Keith Brooking at weakside linebacker.
Sixth-year veteran Ulmer switched to the middle from strong side, where he backs up Matt Stewart. If Chris Draft were to have another asthma attack that sidelines him for extended time, Mora said Brooking would move back to the middle and Williams likely would start on the weak side. (AP)
- [New York Jets] DE Bryan Thomas remains out with a hamstring, but head coach Herman Edwards wouldn't specify who would replace him, mentioning Trevor Johnson and Matt Walters as possibilities. (NY Post)
- [Olympics] Schlesinger and teammates try to keep mind on field, off cuts.
- [San Diego Chargers] Polk may miss opening game.
- [St. Louis Rams] Groce, Garrett Move to Forefront.
- [Olympics] Rulon Gardner wins first two Olympic matches .
PRESEASON WEEK 2: Stats, Stories & Pictures
08/23/04
- [New York Giants] LB T.J. Hollowell was impressive in Giants camp on Sunday, he broke up a pass intended for TE Visanthe Shiancoe, then leveled WR JaJuan Dawson on a crossing pattern several plays later (NJ Star-Ledger)
- [St. Louis Rams] CB DeJuan Groce (knee) will sit out the Monday night preseason game (August 23) against the Kansas City Chiefs. (St. Louis Post-Dispatch, KFFL)
- [Philadelphia Eagles] The Eagles have placed RB Correll Buckhalter (knee) on Injured Reserve, officially ending his 2004 season.
- [Olympics] Much has changed for Rulon Gardner since 2000, except pursuit of gold .
- [Olympics] King slayer Rulon Gardner returns to Olympics for personal satisfaction.
08/22/04
- [Chicago Bears] Mike Brown was in the right place at the right time against the 49ers. He intercepted the first pass thrown by Dorsey. He later scooped up the fumble that Bobby Gray forced. (Bears Report Magazine)
- [Cincinnati Bengals] Rookie Kyle Larson handled punting and holding chores in the first half against New England. Larson punted twice for an average of 41 yards, but bobbled a hold on the Bengals' first point-after attempt. (Cincinnati Enquirer)
- [Olympics] Gardner, Iraqi soccer lead inspirational performers.
- [San Diego Chargers] 8/22 LB Carlos Polk dislocated his left shoulder and will be re-evaluated Sunday. Polk was hurt in the first half against the Cardinals and did not return to the game (NC Times, AP)
- [Philadelphia Eagles] RB Correll Buckhalter won't play again this year. He needs season-ending surgery to repair the patellar tendon in his right knee. Buckhalter was injured in the first quarter of the Eagles' preseason win over Baltimore last night. An M-R-I done today confirmed the injury. (AP)
- [Olympics] Athletics great Merlene Ottey narrowly missed out on a place in the women's 100 metres Olympic final this morning when she was edged out on the line for the fourth and final place in her semi-final. The 44-year-old could bow out with her head held high in what was her 50th race over seven Olympics. (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
08/21/04
- [Atlanta Falcons] Atlanta rookie linebacker Demorrio Williams, a fourth-round pick, had two consecutive sacks totaling 19 lost yards that put Minnesota out of field-goal range on the Vikings' next-to-last possession. The Falcons won 27-24.(Atlanta Pro Football)
- [Olympics] Ottey passes first test of record seventh Olympic effort.
- [Olympics] Merlene Ottey, 44, finished second in the 100 meters first round in 11.14 seconds, officially competing in her seventh Olympics. (AP)
08/20/04
- [NBA] Clippers Sign Mikki Moore.
- [Philadelphia Eagles] Eagles' Buckhalter likely out for season.
08/19/04
- [Houston Texans] No one around the Texans denies Jammal Lord is a project. The Texans drafted him in the sixth round not as a quarterback, which he played at Nebraska, but as a free safety. The idea would be to stash him on the practice squad and develop him as a defensive back, a position he hasn't played since high school back in New Jersey. But his nose for the ball on special teams, where he had two tackles Saturday in the win over Dallas, turned heads.
"It tell these guys all the time that every day out here your stock either goes up or goes down, it doesn't stay the same," coach Dom Capers said. "And Jammal Lord's stock went up Saturday night." (AP)
- [Dallas Cowboys] Linebacker Scott Shanle raced all the way across the field to knock a pass away from tight end Landon Trusty. Shanle has been one of the biggest surprises during camp. (Dallas Morning News)
08/18/04
- [New York Jets] The Jets placed RB Josh Davis (knee) on injured reserve, ending his rookie season.
- [San Diego Chargers] DT Ryon Bingham will have surgery to repair a strained biceps tendon. Although Coach Schottenheimer would not say the rookie was headed to injured reserve, he acknowledged that Bingham would miss a significant amount of time.
Bingham injured his biceps while running drills in Tuesday's training camp. The 303 pound tackle had been working at nose tackle behind Jamal Williams and Jason Fisk in the rotation. (SDBoltReport.com)
- [St. Louis Rams] DeJuan Groce sprained his knee and was immediately taken back to St. Louis for an M.R.I. Martz said the team already got word back about Groce and he appears to be OK. "DeJuan is fine," Martz said. "Fortunately there is no structural damage. There is a little swelling. We are all very fortunate that he didn’t damage it." (StLouisRams.com)
- [San Diego Chargers] Ryon Bingham likely out for year.
08/17/04
- [Atlanta Falcons] The team waived cornerback Derek Ross and re-signed Pat Ricketts. Ross, a former third-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys, was with the Falcons for the final four games last season, making one start and appearing in one game as a reserve. Ricketts signed as an undrafted rookie free agent who was cut earlier this month. (AP)
- [Atlanta Falcons] Eric Johnson , a former Raider who signed a one-year contract with the Falcons shortly after free agency began, is being used in many nickel, or passing defenses. He was a special teams ace for Oakland, where the 6-foot, 210-pound former Nebraska star played some at safety in addition to linebacker.
"We look at everybody to see what they can bring to the table," said defensive coordinator Ed Donatell . "He has speed and explosion, and he can play in space. Nickel plays are in space. We're going to use him in different manners... rush him some, cover some." (Atlanta Journal Constitution)
- [Olympics] UNL grad Razvan Florea or Romania won the bronze (1:57.56) in the men's 200-meter backstroke. For a moment Florea was in place for the silver medal after Aaron Peirsol of the United States was controversially disqualified for what was considered to be an illegal turn. Florea was bumped to bronze after the decision was immediately repealed, though neither he nor Austria's Markus Rogan (2nd place) protested the eventual outcome.
- [Olympics] Greatest Female Olympic athlete Ottey is set for 7th Olympics.
- [CFL-Ottawa] OL Patrick Kabongo has been released from the Renegades' practice roster. The 6-foot-7, 340-lb. Montreal native arrived in Ottawa last month. "We've seen enough to make an assessment of his talents and what he can do," said Renegades coach Joe Paopao. Kabongo, drafted 19th overall by Ottawa in the 2003 Canadian college draft, played at the University of Nebraska as a defensive lineman. (Ottawa Sun)
08/16/04
- [Dallas Cowboys] Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells said defensive tackles Shaun Smith and Jermaine Brooks must improve. "I'm concerned about the play inside. We haven't been strong in there since I've been here," Parcells said. "Hell, An offensive tackle, Dave Volk, made more tackles than the rest of them put together." Volk has been playing defensive tackle for the Cowboys due to a shortage of players at that position. (Dallas Morning News)
- RB Josh Davis will have knee surgery on his right ACL surgery in 2-3 weeks. "He's out. Done," head coach Herman Edwards said (NY Post)
- [NBA-Clippers] Mikki Moore, who played sparingly for the Utah Jazz last season, has signed with the LA Clippers.
Wiegert Expected to Return
- [Houston Texans] Starting offensive guard Zach Wiegert, who has been out with an inflamed left elbow, is expected to return to practices this week. (AP)
08/15/04
- [Olympics] About an hour after winning his Olympic debut Sunday, Andy Roddick found himself in a Rulon Gardner headlock. Don't worry: They were horsing around, and Roddick's fine. Just another example of how the U.S. Open champion is embracing every aspect of the games, from living in the athletes' village to trading pins and meeting stars from other sports. The former No. 1 player got to meet 2000 Greco-Roman gold medalist Gardner and two other American wrestlers who came to watch. (AP)
- Brad Vering (Greco-Roman wrestling) on the 2004 Opening Ceremonies-- "It was awesome, more than I expected. The camaraderie between the athletes was quite a thing. It was between the U.S. athletes and athletes from all over the world. It's something I will cherish forever." (SportsFeatures.com)
- [New York Jets] The severity of the knee injuries suffered in Friday's 23-13 loss to the Saints game by quarterback Brooks Bollinger and running back Josh Davis remained unknown yesterday, though Bollinger insisted he was fine after the game.
"If [Bollinger] was a starting quarterback, we probably could have put him in a brace and he could have went back and finished the game," Herman Edwards said. "Josh Davis is a little more severe than Brooks'".(NY Post)
- [Houston vs Dallas] Jammal Lord had an interception with under a minute to go and sealed the 18-0 shutout over the Cowboys. (HoustonTexans.com)
- First and Last on the scoreboard-- The Texans' scoring started with a 36-yard field goal from Kris Brown. Their final score came on a safety when Jeremy Slechta tackled backup QB Tony Romo in the end zone.
- Houston vs Dallas] The Cowboys were in such a need for defensive linemen that they moved Dave Volk from offensive guard to defensive tackle to shore up the depth of the defensive line, he made 2 tackles in the game. Volk had been playing defensive tackle in training camp as well.
08/14/04
- [New England vs Philadelphia] Left guard Russ Hochstein was heralded as an "impact player" in the Patriots game against the Eagles. Hochstein sprung Dillon for his largest gain of the night, 13 yards, with a nice inside seal block. The unheralded Hochstein, you might recall, is replacing the departed Damien Woody and appeared to pick up where he left off in the 2003 playoffs, a stretch in which the team's offensive line didn't surrender a sack. (Metro West Daily News)
- [Kansas City vs Giants] The Giants tested CB Eric Warfield deep, and he didn't get beat. Warfield also made a big hit in run support. (KC Star)
- [St. Louis vs Chicago] In his opening statement at a post-game press conference, head coach Mike Martz described Dejuan Groce's game play as "outstanding" in the Rams first preseason game.
- Suffering from QB troubles the Toronto Argonauts contacted Eric Crouch but he declined the opportunity at this time because he has just begun a business. (Toronto Sun)
PRESEASON WEEK 1: Stats, Stories & Pictures
08/14/04: Preseason Week 1
- [New Orleans vs New York Jets] New Orleans Saints CB Keyuo Craver did not participate in the team's exhibition opener against the New York Jets on Friday (NewOrleansSaints.com, KFFL)
- [New Orleans vs New York Jets] RB Josh Davis was expected to see time on special teams and at running back but Davis suffered a knee injury. Jets head coach Herman Edwards said Davis will have an MRI done to determine the severity.
Another injury, LB TJ Hollowell injured his ankle and did not play for the Giants.
- [Green Bay vs Seattle] Ahman Green is listed as Questionable for Monday night.
- [Dallas Cowboys] Out of seemingly nowhere that first week of training camp, Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells started talking about some guy named Scott Shanle, nearly a forgotten soul from last year.
"Now, there's a player that is doing well," Parcells said about a week into training camp here at River Ridge of the linebacker fighting for a backup spot on the roster. "I didn't know a lot about him, and he's really doing well out here. I keep telling my scouts to go get me some players like Jemeel Powell and Scott Shanle. Go get me some of those kids like that."
"I didn't know that Parcells had been bringing my name up, but it's always a compliment to have him talking about you," said Shanle. "You've just got to keep working hard and keep going on. You can't take any steps backwards, and that's what I'm trying to do right now. Just trying to stay consistent and get better every day."
"He's still doing well," Parcells said Wednesday morning. "I'm anxious to see how he looks on Saturday night (in the preseason game against the Texans)." (DallasCowboys.com)
- [Dallas Cowboys] Shanle Impressive in Cowboys Camp
08/13/04
- [Carolina Panthers] Football video games are getting more and more realistic each year. But the one thing they can't possibly replicate is the amount of trash-talking they generate.
A crew from EA Sports visited the Carolina Panthers training camp Thursday, and brought along copies of their popular Madden NFL 2005 game that they hooked up for players to play during their lunch break, leading to some heated competition and razzing.
By the end of the lunch hour, safety Mike Minter and defensive end Mike Rucker were poking at each other, playfully arranging a high stakes bet on a future game.
"I'm gonna win your mansion on the hill," Minter said with a laugh, pointing at Rucker. It may not quite go to that length, but the players who are into the games are really into them. (The Herald)
- [Houston Texans] Zach Wiegert, who has a sore left elbow, is not expected to play against the Cowboys. (AP)
08/13/04: Preseason, Week 1
- [New York Jets] RB Ian Smart, trying to make the roster for the second straight camp, is locked in a fierce battle with rookie free agent Josh Davis. The coaches will be watching closely tonight to see which one emerges as a viable backup punt returner and coverage man on special teams. (Newsday)
- [Green Bay Packers] Green no 'shoe'-in to play Monday.
- [Green Bay Packers] Green sits out but may play Monday.
- [Olympics] Interview: Merlene Ottey.
- [New York Jets] Once Curtis Martin and LaMont Jordan are finished getting their carry or two, there are three interesting running backs to watch: Ian Smart of C.W. Post, Johnathan Reese of Columbia and Josh Davis of Nebraska all have had nice camps. (Newsday)
- [Green Bay Packers] A shoe one size too small could keep Ahman Green from playing in the Green Bay Packers' preseason opener Monday night. The Pro Bowl halfback was sidelined for the second straight day in training camp Thursday because of a sore left foot. Head coach Mike Sherman said between the day's two full-squad practices that Green is questionable for the nationally televised game against Seattle at Lambeau Field. (AP)
- [Atlanta vs Baltimore] Matt Stewart caused the Ravens to fumble away a punt return, the ball was recovered by rookie Demorrio Williams recovered. (Savannah Morning News)
Williams finished the game with 2 tackles while Eric Johnson had one tackle and knocked down a pass in man coverage.
08/12/04
- [Oakland Raiders] Adam Treu worked with the first-team offense Thursday and will start at center against the 49ers, Turner said. Rookie Jake Grove will replace Treu after a handful of plays and get some work with the starters, as well. (Contra Costa Times)
- 08/12/04 - Ailing Green questionable for Monday night
- [Green Bay Packers] Taking no risks with Green's foot
- [Carolina Panthers] Rucker closing in on team sack record
- [] Josh Brown wants more on depth chart
- [New York Giants] Preseason and practice give younger linebackers a chance to participate and show what they can do.
"It's difficult when you have Barrett Green and Carlos Emmons standing on the sidelines, but it's given the other kids a lot of reps," Coughlin said. "The other kids have taken full advantage of it. With the special teams, or however you look at it, those guys have tried to take advantage of their opportunity. They try to stay out there. I've seen Quincy Monk and Kevin Lewis make great progress. (T.J.) Hollowell has taken full advantage of the opportunity he's been given." Coughlin also mentioned Reggie Torbor, Wes Mallard, and Jim Maxwell as LB possibilities. (Big Blue Wrecking Crew)
08/11/04
- [St. Louis vs Chicago] Chris Dishman left the practice field early Wednesday because of back spasms and did not play against the Bears Thursday night. (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
- [St. Louis vs Chicago] Mike Brown only played long enough to make one tackle; but it came on a blitz that dropped Rams' RB Arlen Harris for a 2-yard loss.
Rams DB Dejuan Groce did not have any returns on special teams but did manage a team-leading 7 tackles on defense.
- [San Diego Chargers] ESPN's John Clayton listed "Five observations on the San Diego Chargers, based on practices", Number 1 was Toniu Fonoti.
"Perhaps the biggest surprise is the presence of left guard Toniu Fonoti. After not playing last season because of a foot injury and being 388 pounds during the offseason, Fonoti showed up a day late for camp and surprised everyone. He lost 25 pounds. He seemed more motivated than at any time during his three-year career. On Monday, he was promoted to starting left guard. When right, he's powerful in run blocking." (ESPN.com)
- [Atlanta Falcons] Team officials will focus on several players during preseason. The list of younger players includes rookie OLB Demorrio Williams, rookie free agents MLB Deryck Toles, OT Steve Stewart, rookie QB Matt Schaub, and OL Roberto Garza. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
- [Dallas Cowboys] Several players have emerged early in training camp, and Cowboys coach Bill Parcells is eager to get a look at them. Parcells said he would keep a close eye on linebacker Scott Shanle, receiver Cedric James, defensive tackle Jermaine Brooks, safety Tony Dixon, quarterbacks Drew Henson and Tony Romo and punter Mat McBriar.
Shanle, taken in the seventh round by the Rams in the 2003 draft, was claimed off waivers Dec. 10. The former Nebraska player attracted attention early in camp because of his aggressive style. To make the team, Shanle must also prove his value on special teams. (Dallas Morning News)
- [Houston Texans] Right guard Zach Wiegert is not expected to rejoin the team until next week as he recovers from an infection in his elbow, coach Dom Capers said after Tuesday's workout. Wiegert has participated in only one of the Texans' 16 workouts in training camp. Capers said Wiegert is undergoing intravenous treatment and would be unlikely to practice until Monday at the earliest. (Houston Chronicle)
- [St. Louis Rams] DeJuan Groce probably will start in place of Travis Fisher (ankle) at right corner. Groce and Kevin Garrett are off to good starts in camp. (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
- [Kansas City Chiefs] Because reserve tight end Billy Baber is out for up to six weeks with a leg injury suffered during workouts with the Vikings and because Dunn is bothered by a sore groin, rookie second-round pick Kris Wilson and free-agent long shot Aaron Golliday will see a ton of action Friday night. (KC Star)
- [Green Bay Packers] In a drill in the end zone, rookie receiver WR Wilson Thomas leaped high into the air to make a difficult one-handed grab on a pass tossed by Scott McBrien. (Packers.com)
- GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman held Ahman Green back from work with the full team Wednesday.
"Ahman's foot was a little sore and the field was a little soft, so I decided to hold him back," Sherman said. (Packers.com)
- Running back Dahrran Diedrick found the end zone on consecutive plays in a red zone drill later in the workout. Doug Pederson hit the former Nebraska Cornhusker with a swing pass for a five-yard score, and the next play saw Diedrick take a toss and sweep around the right end and into the corner of the end zone. (Packers.com)
- [Houston Texans] The Texans defense got a pleasant surprise Tuesday afternoon, earning a day off through what has become a tradition at Texans camp. The team played a different kind of game after practice, picking a team of five linemen – offense and defense – and alternating chances at catching a punt. The team with the most catches got the night off.
Only five players caught balls between the two teams – Brad Lekkerkerker, Jeremy Slechta, D.J. Renteria, Curry Dawson and Smith. (HoustonTexans.com)
- [Houston Texans] Zach Wiegert is a week away from returning full speed to practice. He will be finished with IV’s to cure an infection in his elbow over the weekend and may return Monday. (HoustonTexans.com)
08/10/04
- Gross profits for Rucker
- Athletes enjoy look at Greek experience (Vering)
- [Buffalo Bills] Denney, Kelsay vying for DE job
- [Tampa Bay Buccaneers] Scott Frost- From Eight-Man to the NFL
- [Seattle Seahawks] Yes, he made a tackle during the non-contact portion of the Saturday scrimmage. Coach Mike Holmgren fumed, then joked (we think) that "Josh Brown was almost not on this football team, I was so angry with him." That quip brought questions from reporters.
"I swear it's the tackle heard round the world," Brown said after the morning practice yesterday. "I felt like I wrecked my dad's car. I got my punishment, and that's the last you'll hear about it. I promise." But that's not all Brown gets these days.
He set the Seahawks' rookie scoring record with 114 points last season and connected on a franchise-record 58-yard field goal. He did so with a leg fatigued from non-stop kicking, a leg that was so stiff every morning, Brown said, "It basically felt dead."
So Brown took some time off in the offseason, then worked almost exclusively on leg speed, power lifting and running to make it faster. He believes that speed will help his distance on kickoffs and his overall accuracy.
"I'm pacing myself better," Brown said. "I'm kicking with great moderation and good judgment. I'm a lot more comfortable than I was last year." (Seattle Times)
- [Kansas City Chiefs] Every Chiefs player except one answered the 8 a.m. horn for the start of training camp practice today.
The one who didn't, starting cornerback Eric Warfield, was demoted to the second team for practice after he arrived a few minutes late. Julian Battle assumed Warfield's spot in the starting lineup.
Assuming Warfield arrives on time for this afternoon's practice, he would regain his starting spot. (KC Star)
08/09/04
- [Washington vs Denver] Both Denver C Josh Sewell and Redskins CB Ralph Brown saw action Monday night. Brown played as well as expected and had 4 tackles. Of note, Brown is listed as #32 on the Redskins offical website but was wearing his old #22 during the game.
- [Seattle Seahawks] Holmgren, on the team's second-year kicker taking down Maurice Morris on a non-tackling kickoff return drill in Saturday's scrimmage-- "Josh Brown was almost not on this football team, I was so angry with him. Once I delicately pointed that out to him, he shouldn't do that again." (Seattle Post-Intelligencer)
- [Philadelphia Eagles] Correll Buckhalter was back at running back Sunday after missing practice time first because of a cut above his left eye and later due to a knee contusion. (The Morning Call)
Bob Brown Inducted!
- Bob Brown officially became the third Nebraska Cornhusker to be enshrined at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
Hall of Fame profile
Induction Video
08/08/04
- [Philadelphia Eagles] RB Correll Buckhalter sustained a knee injury (knee contusion) during Saturday's practice.
- [S. Louis Rams] Recently signed offensive lineman Chris Dishman addressed the media for the first time since his arrival Thursday. Dishman tipped the scales at 375 pounds and acknowledge that he needs to work to get back in shape.
Dishman said he was surprised when Martz called him to come back. It had been about eight months since he had from any teams, so Dishman took a job coaching the Lincoln (Ariz.) Northstar Gators.
"Coach Martz bamboozled me," Dishman said. "I retired three or four months ago, I worked out until May and the phone didn’t ring. I got comfortable and told my agent I was ready to hang ‘er up."
Dishman found out from a radio report that the Rams were trying to get a hold of him. His wife called him later in the day and let him know Martz called. Before he knew it, Dishman was a St. Louis Ram. (StLouisRams.com)
- [St. Louis Rams] Head Coach Mike Martz On any of the players peeking his interest-- ...I think DeJuan (Groce) and Kevin Garrett, those two corners now that have practiced for so hard and so long, they’re ready to step forward in a game, and see what they can do now. There’s quite a few guys I’m anxious to see." (StLouisRams.com)
- In practice Dejuan Groce had another solid day and could contribute in the secondary more than his rookie season. (StLouisRams.com)
- [San Diego Chargers] Maurice Morris was impressive during the Seahawks practice Saturday but K Josh Brown still managed to get a piece of him.
The kicker and linebacker wannabe Josh Brown popped Morris on one kickoff return drill, which wasn't supposed to include tackling.
"There's a lot of talk in the locker room about that -- that's about all I'll say," Hasselbeck said, grinning.
Perhaps Brown was emboldened by the two missed 43-yarders by Tyler Fredrickson, a rookie free agent from California. (Oregon Live)
- [Oakland Raiders] Center Adam Treu returned to practice after sitting out three days with a shoulder injury. He was limited, however, to long-snapping duties on kicks. (Oakland Tribune)
- [Houston Texans] Under the category of humble beginnings comes Texans defensive tackle Jeremy Slechta, a native of Verdel, Neb., which has a population of 59. There are 15 families living in Verdel, and the median income per household is $15,833. Providing he makes the team, he will earn $22,353 with one game check. (St. Petersburg Times)
- [Arizona Cardinals] Starks and Vanden Bosch Back From Knee Injuries.
- [Olympics] Wrestler Rulon Gardner to Defend Gold in Athens (Audio).
- [Olympics] Ottey Blasts The Age Talk.
- [Carolina Panthers] Minter looks to be the man for Carolina's secondary.
08/07/04
- [San Diego Chargers] A groin injury kept Carlos Polk out of action Saturday. (NC Times)
- [Kansas City Chiefs] CB Eric Warfield intecepted a pass from Minnesota QB Daunte Culpepper during a scrimmage between the Chiefs and Vikings. (Star Tribune)
- [Hall of Fame] The wait is over for Bob Brown.
- [St. Louis Rams] Lincoln North Star HS loses its coach (Dishman).
- [Philadelphia Eagles] From CNN/SI -- One of this season's top sleepers has to be Correll Buckhalter. Starter Brian Westbrook is terrific playmaker, but he is undersized and has struggled to stay healthy for his entire football career, including high school and college. As a fourth-round pick out of Nebraska in 2001, Buckhalter, served as a backup to Duce Staley and rushed for 586 yards and two TDs on 129 carries (4.5-yard average). In 2002, he was poised to challenge Staley for the starting job, but he missed the entire season with a knee injury. Last year, the backfield was even more crowded, as Westbrook had joined the mix. Buckhalter still had a productive year, rushing for 542 yards and eight scores on 126 attempts in 15 games, including five starts. In the offseason, Staley left for Pittsburgh as a free agent, which will give both Buckhalter and Westbrook more chances this season. At a minimum, Buckhalter will be used liberally to ensure that Westbrook stays healthy and fresh, and given how the incumbent struggles with injuries, he could get his share of starts this season.
08/06/04
- [New Orleans Saints] Veteran Kyle Richardson may have taken control of the punting race with a more consistent night even though rookie Kyle Larson’s average on the six punts was about six yards longer (45-39).
- [New Orleans Saints] Third-year defensive back Keyuo Craver of Nebraska limped off the field early in Thursday's practice with an ankle injury. "He just rolled his ankle," Haslett said after practice. "He'll be all right." (Louisiana Gannett News)
- [Atlanta Falcons] Falcons coaches continue to praise rookie linebacker Demorrio Williams for his play. (The Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Williams got close to blocking two punts by Pro Bowler Craig Hentrich in the afternoon. (AP)
- When asked about not getting contacted to play earlier in the year, the Rams newly signed OG said: "Well, you never know. For example my best friend Joel Makovicka started all four years with the Arizona Cardinals and missed only two games and his phone hasn’t rung. It’s one of those things where if it isn’t ringing now it probably isn’t ever going to ring. That was fine with me though. My wife and I had settled in with my kids and we were ready to hang it up and be a normal family."
Joel Makovicka is in his first season as UVA’s graduate assistant coach for the offense.
On his weight (currently listed at 375): "I have been lifting with my kids so the strength was still there but I was just out of shape. I’m about 30 pounds over what I usually play at and I can feel it. I let him (head coach Mike Martz) know that I was out of shape from the start. He gave me the opportunity to come in here and he told me that they’d get me back into shape and I could tell them when I was ready to go." (StLouisRams.com)
- [St. Louis Rams] Dishman arrives at practice.
- [MLB] Jason Burch is headed to Colorado in Walker trade.
- 08/06/04 - Brown To Become Third Husker in Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- [Olympics] Howells native Vering shooting for gold.
- The Chicago Tribune's K.C. Johnson reports that the Bulls could ship Dikembe Mutombo to the Rockets as part of a deal for Eric Piatkowski. (Fox Sports)
- For South Africa's swimmers it would seem that talent as fine as that of Penny Heyns is hard to come by. The biggest disappointment for Swimming South Africa is the lack of female contenders to take over from her. However, there should at least be one medal from the likes of Terence Parkin, Ryk Neethling and Roland Schoeman among the men. (Mail and Guardian- South Africa)
- Melvin doesn't anticipate any more callups from Tacoma until September. One player who deserves a look is outfielder Jamal Strong, who leads the Rainiers in hitting (.324) and steals.
"We like Jamal, but with our three guys in the outfield there's not much room for him to play," Mariners manager Bob Melvin said. (Seattle Times)
- [Seattle Seahawks] Kickers Josh Brown and Tyler Frederickson attempted four kicks each with the field-goal unit yesterday afternoon. Brown made all four of his tries and Frederickson made three. (Seattle Times)
08/05/04
- [Arizona Cardinals] The Comeback, Part 2 (Vanden Bosch).
- [Houston Texans] Inside Job (Foreman).
- [Philadelphia Eagles] Buckhalter sees opportunity in Staley's departure .
- [Etc] Jenny Benson comes home.
- [New York Jets] During the Jets' Thursday night practice under the lights RB Josh Davis ripped off two nice runs and contributed several big hits on special teams. (NewYorkJets.com)
- [St. Louis Rams] The St. Louis Rams have signed G Chris Dishman. The 6-3, 375 lbs Dishman will enter his eighth NFL season in 2004. He played his entire career with Arizona after being drafted by the Cardinals in the fourth round (106th overall) of the 1997 NFL Draft. Dishman played in 14 games for Arizona in 2003, starting two. (StLouisRams.com)
- [Philadelphia Eagles] Sporting a new protective shield, running back Correll Buckhalter returned to action Thursday after missing three days -- six practices -- because of an eye laceration.
Aside from some redness in his left eye, Buckhalter says his vision is fine. As for the shield, he says he plans to wear it for the duration of the season.
"The visor is not giving me any problem. It's helping me, so I plan to keep it," Buckhalter said. "To take another shot like (the other day) wouldn't be good."
Buckhalter sustained the injury in the 9-on-7 run period on Sunday afternoon. "When I was cutting up, one of the d-linemen stuck his hand out and his fist came through my facemask and it kind of punched me in the eye," said Buckhalter, in describing what happened. (PhiladelphiaEagles.com)
- [San Diego Chargers] OG Toniu Fonoti, who has had a great first week of camp, likes the Bolts' chances this season if they can maintain their intensity level through the remaining three weeks of camp.
"The practices are hard, but everyone is just taking it one day at a time," Fonoti said. "We're not focusing on any practices we have coming up. As long as we continue to do that, we'll do fine." (Chargers.com)
- [San Diego Chargers] Bill LaFleur sat out practice after he hurt his shoulder while lifting weights Thursday morning. (Chargers.com)
- [Houston Texans] OL Zach Wiegert was limited during Wednesday's practice due to an elbow injury. (HoustonTexans.com, KFFL)
08/04/04
- [San Diego Chargers] LG Toniu Fonoti is moving up the depth chart fast, now getting some snaps with the first team. "He's done very well for us, and we are pleased with his progress," coach Marty Schottenheimer said. (North County Times)
- [Carolina Panthers] Chris Gamble signed a five-year, $9.1 million contract that includes a $2.75 million bonus last week on the first day of training camp; and on the first day of pracice the rookie found himself carrying Mike Minter's helmet and shoulder pads from the practice field to the locker room. (Asheville Citizen-Times)
- [Green Bay Packers] For the second straight day Ahman Green and Najeh Davenport had no problems breaking off long runs. This time though, Dahrran Diedrick, the first-year player out of Nebraska, also squirted outside of the defense's range in 11-on-11 drills. (Packers.com)
- [Green Bay Packers] Cornerback Erwin Swiney is on the exempt/NFL Europe injury list because of a shoulder injury he suffered in NFL Europe. He does not count against the roster. (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
- [Dallas Cowboys] Linebacker Scott Shanle made a nice play on a ball intended for rookie tight end Sean Ryan. (CowboysPlus.com)
- [St. Louis Rams] Free agent Chris Dishman, the former Arizona Cardinal, remains another possible option at guard. But it's unclear whether the Rams are still interested in signing him. (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
- [Hall of Fame] Bob Brown's enormous impact Oakland's outspoken former lineman Hall of Fame-bound .
- [NBA] Hapoel Jerusalem invites Ffriend over to play.
- [Olympics] Ottey set for seventh Games
08/03/04
- [Atlanta Falcons] The Falcons released rookie free agent CB Pat Ricketts.
- [Houston Texans] Offensive lineman Zach Wiegert had fluid removed from his elbow Tuesday and was not at practice. (HoustonTexans.com)
- Olympic gold medal wrestler Rulon Gardner threw out the first pitch of the Cubs vs Rockies game at Coors Field in Denver. (AP)
- [Oakland Raiders] Center Adam Treu, who has been working with the first team, injured his shoulder in the morning practice and was not in pads for the afternoon workout. (SFGate.com)
- [St. Louis Rams] In their debut seasons a year ago, DeJuan Groce and Kevin Garrett handled backup duties as camp opened and could see time in nickel and dime situations. Groce played in every regular season game, getting a start against Pittsburgh. He wasted no time making an impact, intercepting a pass in the fourth quarter. (StLouisRams.com)
- [San Diego Chargers] A good sign for the team is the play of third-year offensive tackle Toniu Fonoti. Fans may have forgotten about the former second-round draft pick from Nebraska; he spent all of the 2003 campaign on the injured reserve list, and he chose not to participate in any of the team's offseason training. In addition, he missed the first day of training camp.
Nevertheless, it's hard to not get excited about his domination in practice the past three days. Fonoti's great play has even made Marty Schottenheimer reconsider if the 350-pounder's knee injury last season was a blessing in disguise.
Fonoti is doing quite well," Schottenheimer said. "He's in pretty good shape. I think a year ago, with the injury and everything, maybe that redshirt year was a benefit to him. I don't know, but he has done pretty well."
- [San Diego Chargers] Also from Chargers camp: Strength and conditioning coach Dave Redding, who fell ill recently due to an apparent insect bite, will be released from the hospital today. Schottenheimer said that Redding will recuperate for one week before joining the team in Carson. Redding lettered as a defensive end for Nebraska from 1972 to 1975.
- [Houston Texans] OL Zach Wiegert returned to morning practice Monday after missing time with an injured elbow. However, he sat out the team's night workout Monday in order to rest the ailment. (KFFL, HoustonTexans.com)
- [Philadelphia Eagles] RB Correll Buckhalter did not practice Monday after suffering an eye laceration on Sunday; he is listed as day-to-day. (PhiladelphiaEagles.com, KFFL)
- [Green Bay Packers] CB Erwin Swiney, who is on the NFL Europe injured-reserve list from the spring, is out with a shoulder injury.
- [Olympics] Metcalf eager for Olympic challenge.
- [Oakland Raiders] Parrella returns with force.
- [San Diego Chargers] Chargers training camp: The Specimen vs. The Giant (Fontoi).
08/02/04
- [San Diego Chargers] Offensive guard Toniu Fonoti had his first work yesterday after showing up at camp Friday night. He was a very welcome sight for Schottenheimer.
"We're delighted that (Fonoti) is here," Schottenheimer said. "He had a good morning. I'm not going to concern myself with what has happened in the past. I am moving forward today."
When asked about how it felt to get back into the groove of things, Fonoti said: "It was really good today. I felt that I was moving just as well as everybody. Other than that, I just felt good that I was back in the swing of things with everybody else."
With a few more weeks of training to get into great football shape, Fonoti predicts even better results.
"I'll probably take my game from where it's at now to an even higher level." (Chargers.com)
- [San Diego Chargers] Linebacker Carlos Polk had his nose in a lot of action Sunday morning, stuffing a few run plays when he penetrated some gaps in the offensive line. While teamate Bill LaFleur sailed a wind-aided 56-yard punt to Luke Powell during the punt return drill (Chargers.com)
- [Dallas Cowboys] At Bill Parcell's Monday press conference-- Q."You said in mini-camp that your concern playing a 3-4 defense was that you didn't have enough inside linebackers, is that still the case?" A."Well, I didn't think we did, but I think we're a little better off at the position than I thought we were gonna be. I'm mentioning [Scott] Shanle because he's been a very pleasant surprise so far. But now, we're only three days in. This guy could go south like the ducks, you don't know."
- [Atlanta Falcons] CB Pat Ricketts sat out practice Monday with a hamstring injury.
- [Cincinnati Bengals] On Sunday morning, the punt team was on the field, and incumbent Kyle Richardson was kicking higher and deeper than rookie Kyle Larson. (Cincinnati Enquirer)
- [Oakland Raiders] Defensive lineman John Parrella stopped running back Justin Fargas on an outside running play, threw Fargas to the ground and jumped on. That sparked a series of plays in which Parrella showed more animation than normal. (Contra Costa Times)
- [St. Louis Rams] Offensive lineman Zach Wiegert (elbow) sat out the afternoon practice. (AP)
- [San Diego Chargers] Toniu Fonoti, who arrived one day late for camp, was running with the second team at left guard. The Chargers are hopeful he can earn his way back into the starting lineup. (North County Times)
- [Seattle Seahawks] DE Grant Wistrom, temporarily out with plantar fascitis, was one of four Seahawks who failed their physical Sunday. The injury, a strained foot tendon, wasn't considered serious and Wistrom is expected to join workouts later in the week. Seattle opens its training camp in Cheney on Monday. (AP)
- 08/02/04 - Welcoming Committee: Bob "Boomer" Brown .
- [Oakland Raiders] Treu isn't certain he's starter - yet.
- [Hall of Fame] Deacon Jones on Bob Brown
08/01/04
- [Hall of Fame] Bob Brown makes it into hall of fame on his terms.
- [St. Louis Rams] Reflecting a bit of concern with the offensive line, the Rams planned to sign tackle Greg Randall, who started 16 games for the Texans last year, and guard-center Chris Dishman, formerly of the Cardinals. They were down to 10 offensive linemen on Sunday. Randall was taking a physical Sunday night, although the Rams had not made contact with Dishman. (AP)
- [Arizona Cardinals] Head coach Dennis Green said that DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, who is coming off of season-ending reconstructive knee surgery, passed his physical with "flying colors." (AZCardinals.com, KFFL)
- [Philadelphia Eagles] Head coach Andy Reid said RB Correll Buckhalter (eye) suffered an eye laceration during practice Sunday, Aug. 1. Reid said the team was sending him back to Philadelphia to see a plastic surgeon, who would look at it and sew it up. "He might be back tomorrow, he might not. We'll see how it goes," Reid said. (KFFL)
- [Seattle Seahawks] DE Grant Wistrom (back) will miss the start of training camp after being placed on the team's physically-unable-to-perform list. His injury isn't believed to be serious enough to keep him off the field for an extended period of time. (Tacoma News Tribune, KFFL)