AUBURN - Auburn football held its annual NFL Pro Day Tuesday with 15 former Tigers working out in front of NFL scouts for close to three-and-a-half hours.
The group, which was broken up into different sub-groups primarily based on positions, spent time in two different sessions. The first session was held indoors at the John H. Watson Fieldhouse, and consisted of workouts in measurable testing. Those drills included standing long jumps, vertical jumps, 225-pound bench presses, the 40-yard dash and shuttle cone drills.
After spending approximately two hours indoors, the groups moved outdoors where each worked on position specific drills. Groups included defensive backs, linebackers, wide receivers and running backs, offensive linemen and defensive linemen. Each group spent 15 minutes apiece outdoors, and all were staggered so that each could work out on the Sprinturf artificial field behind the Athletics Complex.
The NFL Draft will be held April 25-26 in New York City.
Quoting Auburn Players
Tristan Davis
On his performance...
"I think today went pretty well. I don't know my exact numbers but from the comments I've gotten I think I did pretty well.
On his health...
"My health is very good. I found out another thing that was wrong with my feet. We got that eliminated. It was something very simple that we never thought of. My hamstring is feeling a lot better, my feet, my shoulder, everything I've ever had problems with. I think I just needed a little rest, and I got that, and a lot of good work in."
If he'll try to make it as a free agent if he's not drafted...
"Oh yeah, I'll definitely give that a shot. It's always been my dream to play in the NFL, no matter how I get there, as long as I get there and stay there."
Tyronne Green
On his workout today...
"I was the only offensive linemen, so it definitely wasn't fun, moving drill to drill by myself. I tried to catch a little blow in between, but they were pushing me - trying to see what I could do, I guess. How I could handle being a little tired. But I pushed through it and made it through.
On if he helped himself today...
"Yeah, I helped myself all along throughout the process. There are some teams interested. They like my film, they like the way I move, like my good feet."
Sen'Derrick Marks
On his expectations today...
"I was expecting that my hamstring would hold up and maybe I could go out and put up some numbers that I know I could put up."
On what he did previously at the NFL combine...
"The only thing I did at the combine was do my 40, my interviews and my vertical jump. I was impressed with those numbers, but I wanted to work out at the combine because I knew my numbers would be a lot better."
Jerraud Powers
On his performance today...
"I think it went well. I think I improved on my 40 time a lot. A lot of guys were surprised by my 40 time. The main people were worried about was if I was going to do a lot here today at the workout, but I wanted to show them that I'm a competitor and I think I improved in everything. I think I left on a good note."
On how different Pro Day is from the combine...
"It was more relaxed. The only difference was out here we only had four DBs, and at the combine we had like 30, so every time you took a rep, you weren't tired at all. Up here it was more of a conditioning-type thing. Other than that, the drills are the same, it's just a different environment. It was more relaxed, so that's why I was out there just having fun, just trying to do my best."
Rodgeriqus Smith
On his performance:
"I feel pretty good. I felt like I had a solid two months of training up in Charlotte and I prepared very well for today, so I thought it went pretty well."
On his expectations for draft day...
"You never know what's going to happen, so maybe I can be one of those surprise guys and get picked in a late round. You never know. And if I go free agent, I'll just have to work my way up."
Source: Auburntigers.com
http://www.cstv.com/printable/schools/aub/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/031009aaa.html
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Friday, March 20, 2009
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Kendall Simmons: Released by Steelers
The Associated Press: Steelers retain OT Trai Essex: "PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed backup offensive tackle Trai Essex to a two-year contract, guaranteeing that four of the team's free agent offensive linemen will return.
The Steelers already had signed left guard Chris Kemoeatu to a five-year contract and starting tackles Willie Colon and Max Starks to one-year contracts.
Essex is entering his fifth season. He can play tackle and guard and has started four times in 33 career regular-season games. He visited the Tennessee Titans last week before re-signing with the Steelers.
Pittsburgh also released guard Kendall Simmons on Tuesday and did not attempt to re-sign tackle Marvel Smith."
The Steelers already had signed left guard Chris Kemoeatu to a five-year contract and starting tackles Willie Colon and Max Starks to one-year contracts.
Essex is entering his fifth season. He can play tackle and guard and has started four times in 33 career regular-season games. He visited the Tennessee Titans last week before re-signing with the Steelers.
Pittsburgh also released guard Kendall Simmons on Tuesday and did not attempt to re-sign tackle Marvel Smith."
Tez Doolittle: Helped Draft Stock At AU's Pro Day
Auburn players show off for NFL scouts at pro day
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
By EVAN WOODBERY
Sports Reporter
AUBURN — Tez Doolittle peeled off his shirt and posed somewhat awkwardly for an NFL scout/beefcake photographer who snapped poses of Auburn's muscular nose guard.
What was that all about?
"They just told me to take my shirt off and took two pictures, back and front," he said sheepishly. "I just did it. No questions."
Doolittle isn't complaining about the indignities that come with the not-so-glamorous life of an NFL prospect. He's just happy to have a chance.
If Doolittle is drafted in April — and based on the feedback Tuesday at Auburn's pro day, there's a good chance he will — it would be another chapter in an already incredible comeback story.
He suffered a torn Achilles' tendon in August 2007 and believed his career was finished. But he made a faster recovery than expected, gained a sixth year of eligibility from the NCAA, emerged as a starter and team leader in 2008 and now is working out in Atlanta with the intention of playing professionally.
"I've been working my tail off, day and night," Doolittle said. "I was trying to come in about 290, but I was five pounds short (285). All these guys were probably happy about that, because most of the teams don't like 315-pound linemen, they like fast, quick 285-, 290-(pounders)."
While Doolittle has been in college seemingly forever, two of the Tigers' top pro prospects are juniors entering the draft a year early.
Cornerback Jerraud Powers was pleased with his performance, and defensive end Sen'Derrick Marks, a Prichard native, said a nagging hamstring injury limited his performance.
"I knocked a lot of my numbers off about two seconds, but it's OK," Marks said.
"I'm gonna go get my hamstring right and have another workout."
Powers is working out in Los Angeles to get away from distractions in Alabama.
"After today, I think a lot of scouts saw I improved a lot," Powers said. "Going into today, I was more of a third-round or fifth-round guy, but who knows? I might have sneaked up into that second round after today. But I'm not going to worry about that. Wherever I get drafted, it will be a blessing. If I go second, if I go seventh round, it'd be a blessing either way. Because I know once I get on a team and get it going, I'll be fine."
At least one former teammate is confident. Former Auburn defensive back and current Green Bay Packer Pat Lee interrupted an interview by throwing his arm over Powers' shoulder and declaring, "You're going to make money. You've got a lot of money coming your way."
Powers said his decision to leave after his junior season had nothing to do with the change in coaching staff.
"I didn't believe my status as a corner was going to change from year to year," Powers said. "A lot of people were saying that the coaches were the factor or this was a factor, and that had nothing to do with it at all. I would have had a great time playing for coach (Gene) Chizik."
More than a dozen other players worked out for scouts, including:
-- Running back Tristan Davis, who said doctors have discovered and corrected the source of some of his chronic foot problems.
-- Linebacker Chris Evans, a Prichard native and former Blount standout. His younger brother Jonathan, who will join the team this summer, was there to watch.
-- Running back Brad Lester, who was so nervous that he threw up Tuesday morning. He calmed his nerves in time for the pro day.
"I'm pretty confident I will (be drafted), but if not that will just motivate me even more," he said.
-- Offensive lineman Tyronne Green, who was exhausted after doing a solo workout for scouts. At the NFL combine, players are in large groups, so there's plenty of rest in between.
"They were pushing me to see how I handle being tired," Green said.
-- Former linebacker Steve Gandy, who retired in August 2007 due to multiple concussions but is giving pro football one last shot.
-- Former Auburn tight end Cooper Wallace, who was cut by San Francisco last September but is hoping to pick up a camp invitation in 2009. He also said he would be looking at opportunities in the Canadian Football League.
Two players — receiver Robert Dunn and linebacker Tray Blackmon — were conspicuous by their absence. Dunn was originally listed as a participant.
Many former players attended as spectators and supporters, including Lee, Marcus McNeil, Jonathan Palmer, Pat Sims, Marquies Gunn, John Vaughn, Blake Field and Calvin Booker.
Former quarterback Brandon Cox threw passes for receivers and running backs in their drills.
"I told Cox I wish he could have played (in 2008)," said receiver Rod Smith.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
By EVAN WOODBERY
Sports Reporter
AUBURN — Tez Doolittle peeled off his shirt and posed somewhat awkwardly for an NFL scout/beefcake photographer who snapped poses of Auburn's muscular nose guard.
What was that all about?
"They just told me to take my shirt off and took two pictures, back and front," he said sheepishly. "I just did it. No questions."
Doolittle isn't complaining about the indignities that come with the not-so-glamorous life of an NFL prospect. He's just happy to have a chance.
If Doolittle is drafted in April — and based on the feedback Tuesday at Auburn's pro day, there's a good chance he will — it would be another chapter in an already incredible comeback story.
He suffered a torn Achilles' tendon in August 2007 and believed his career was finished. But he made a faster recovery than expected, gained a sixth year of eligibility from the NCAA, emerged as a starter and team leader in 2008 and now is working out in Atlanta with the intention of playing professionally.
"I've been working my tail off, day and night," Doolittle said. "I was trying to come in about 290, but I was five pounds short (285). All these guys were probably happy about that, because most of the teams don't like 315-pound linemen, they like fast, quick 285-, 290-(pounders)."
While Doolittle has been in college seemingly forever, two of the Tigers' top pro prospects are juniors entering the draft a year early.
Cornerback Jerraud Powers was pleased with his performance, and defensive end Sen'Derrick Marks, a Prichard native, said a nagging hamstring injury limited his performance.
"I knocked a lot of my numbers off about two seconds, but it's OK," Marks said.
"I'm gonna go get my hamstring right and have another workout."
Powers is working out in Los Angeles to get away from distractions in Alabama.
"After today, I think a lot of scouts saw I improved a lot," Powers said. "Going into today, I was more of a third-round or fifth-round guy, but who knows? I might have sneaked up into that second round after today. But I'm not going to worry about that. Wherever I get drafted, it will be a blessing. If I go second, if I go seventh round, it'd be a blessing either way. Because I know once I get on a team and get it going, I'll be fine."
At least one former teammate is confident. Former Auburn defensive back and current Green Bay Packer Pat Lee interrupted an interview by throwing his arm over Powers' shoulder and declaring, "You're going to make money. You've got a lot of money coming your way."
Powers said his decision to leave after his junior season had nothing to do with the change in coaching staff.
"I didn't believe my status as a corner was going to change from year to year," Powers said. "A lot of people were saying that the coaches were the factor or this was a factor, and that had nothing to do with it at all. I would have had a great time playing for coach (Gene) Chizik."
More than a dozen other players worked out for scouts, including:
-- Running back Tristan Davis, who said doctors have discovered and corrected the source of some of his chronic foot problems.
-- Linebacker Chris Evans, a Prichard native and former Blount standout. His younger brother Jonathan, who will join the team this summer, was there to watch.
-- Running back Brad Lester, who was so nervous that he threw up Tuesday morning. He calmed his nerves in time for the pro day.
"I'm pretty confident I will (be drafted), but if not that will just motivate me even more," he said.
-- Offensive lineman Tyronne Green, who was exhausted after doing a solo workout for scouts. At the NFL combine, players are in large groups, so there's plenty of rest in between.
"They were pushing me to see how I handle being tired," Green said.
-- Former linebacker Steve Gandy, who retired in August 2007 due to multiple concussions but is giving pro football one last shot.
-- Former Auburn tight end Cooper Wallace, who was cut by San Francisco last September but is hoping to pick up a camp invitation in 2009. He also said he would be looking at opportunities in the Canadian Football League.
Two players — receiver Robert Dunn and linebacker Tray Blackmon — were conspicuous by their absence. Dunn was originally listed as a participant.
Many former players attended as spectators and supporters, including Lee, Marcus McNeil, Jonathan Palmer, Pat Sims, Marquies Gunn, John Vaughn, Blake Field and Calvin Booker.
Former quarterback Brandon Cox threw passes for receivers and running backs in their drills.
"I told Cox I wish he could have played (in 2008)," said receiver Rod Smith.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Jason Campbell: Skins Affirm That He "is our quarterback"
'Jason is our quarterback' - Redskins 360 - Washington Redskins Blog - The Washington Times: "That was the word from Redskins front office boss Vinny Cerrato this afternoon when I questioned him about the rumors flying around the Internet about Washington trading Jason Campbell, whose contract is up after this season, to Denver for unhappy fellow quarterback Jay Cutler.
Cerrato added, 'We haven't talked to anyone' when asked about Cutler and re-iterated that 'Jason is going to be our quarterback this season.'"
Cerrato added, 'We haven't talked to anyone' when asked about Cutler and re-iterated that 'Jason is going to be our quarterback this season.'"
Draft Class 2009: Robert Dunn, Tray Blackmon Miss Pro Day
NFL inspects Tigers' talent
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
By EVAN WOODBERY
Times Auburn Writer Evan.woodbery@htimes.com
Doolittle hopes his comeback story ends with pro selection
AUBURN - Tez Doolittle peeled off his shirt and posed somewhat awkwardly for an NFL scout/beefcake photographer who snapped poses of Auburn's muscular nose guard.
What was that all about?
"They just told me to take my shirt off and took two pictures, back and front," he said sheepishly. "I just did it. No questions."
Doolittle isn't complaining about the indignities that come with the not-so-glamorous life of an NFL prospect. He's just happy to have a chance.
If Doolittle is drafted in April - and based on the feedback Tuesday at Auburn's pro day, there's a good chance he will it would be another chapter in an already incredible comeback story.
He suffered a torn Achilles' tendon in August 2007 and believed his career was finished. But he made a faster recovery than expected, gained a sixth year of eligibility from the NCAA, emerged as a starter and team leader in 2008 and now is working out in Atlanta with the intention of playing professionally.
"I've been working my tail off, day and night," Doolittle said. "I was trying to come in about 290, but I was five pounds short (285). All these guys were probably happy about that, because most of the teams don't like 315-pound linemen, they like fast, quick 285-, 290-(pounders)."
While Doolittle has been in college seemingly forever, two of the Tigers' top pro prospects are juniors entering the draft a year early.
Cornerback Jerraud Powers was pleased with his performance, and defensive end Sen'Derrick Marks, said a nagging hamstring injury limited his performance.
"I knocked a lot of my numbers off about two seconds, but it's OK," Marks said. "I'm gonna go get my hamstring right and have another workout."
Powers is working out in Los Angeles to get away from distractions in Alabama.
"After today, I think a lot of scouts saw I improved a lot," Powers said. "Going into today, I was more of a third-round or fifth-round guy, but who knows? I might have sneaked up into that second round after today. But I'm not going to worry about that. Wherever I get drafted, it will be a blessing. If I go second, if I go seventh round, it'd be a blessing either way. Because I know once I get on a team and get it going, I'll be fine."
At least one former teammate is confident. Former Auburn defensive back and current Green Bay Packer Pat Lee interrupted an interview by throwing his arm over Powers' shoulder and declaring, "You're going to make money. You've got a lot of money coming your way."
Powers said his decision to leave after his junior season had nothing to do with the change in coaching staff.
"I didn't believe my status as a corner was going to change from year to year," Powers said. "A lot of people were saying that the coaches were the factor or this was a factor, and that had nothing to do with it at all. I would have had a great time playing for coach (Gene) Chizik."
More than a dozen other players worked out for scouts, including:
?Running back Tristan Davis, who said doctors have discovered and corrected the source of some of his chronic foot problems.
?Linebacker Chris Evans, a Prichard native and former Blount standout. His younger brother Jonathan, who will join the team this summer, was there to watch.
?Running back Brad Lester, who was so nervous that he threw up Tuesday morning. He calmed his nerves in time for the pro day.
"I'm pretty confident I will (be drafted), but if not that will just motivate me even more," he said.
?Offensive lineman Tyronne Green, who was exhausted after doing a solo workout for scouts. At the NFL combine, players are in large groups, so there's plenty of rest in between.
"They were pushing me to see how I handle being tired," Green said.
?Former linebacker Steve Gandy, who retired in August 2007 due to multiple concussions but is giving pro football one last shot.
?Former Auburn tight end Cooper Wallace, who was cut by San Francisco last September but is hoping to pick up a camp invitation in 2009. He also said he would be looking at opportunities in the Canadian Football League.
Two players - receiver Robert Dunn and linebacker Tray Blackmon - were conspicuous by their absence. Dunn was originally listed as a participant.
Many former players attended as spectators and supporters, including Lee, Marcus McNeil, Jonathan Palmer, Pat Sims, Marquies Gunn, John Vaughn, Blake Field and Calvin Booker.
Former quarterback Brandon Cox threw passes for receivers and running backs in their drills.
"I told Cox I wish he could have played (in 2008)," said receiver Rod Smith.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
By EVAN WOODBERY
Times Auburn Writer Evan.woodbery@htimes.com
Doolittle hopes his comeback story ends with pro selection
AUBURN - Tez Doolittle peeled off his shirt and posed somewhat awkwardly for an NFL scout/beefcake photographer who snapped poses of Auburn's muscular nose guard.
What was that all about?
"They just told me to take my shirt off and took two pictures, back and front," he said sheepishly. "I just did it. No questions."
Doolittle isn't complaining about the indignities that come with the not-so-glamorous life of an NFL prospect. He's just happy to have a chance.
If Doolittle is drafted in April - and based on the feedback Tuesday at Auburn's pro day, there's a good chance he will it would be another chapter in an already incredible comeback story.
He suffered a torn Achilles' tendon in August 2007 and believed his career was finished. But he made a faster recovery than expected, gained a sixth year of eligibility from the NCAA, emerged as a starter and team leader in 2008 and now is working out in Atlanta with the intention of playing professionally.
"I've been working my tail off, day and night," Doolittle said. "I was trying to come in about 290, but I was five pounds short (285). All these guys were probably happy about that, because most of the teams don't like 315-pound linemen, they like fast, quick 285-, 290-(pounders)."
While Doolittle has been in college seemingly forever, two of the Tigers' top pro prospects are juniors entering the draft a year early.
Cornerback Jerraud Powers was pleased with his performance, and defensive end Sen'Derrick Marks, said a nagging hamstring injury limited his performance.
"I knocked a lot of my numbers off about two seconds, but it's OK," Marks said. "I'm gonna go get my hamstring right and have another workout."
Powers is working out in Los Angeles to get away from distractions in Alabama.
"After today, I think a lot of scouts saw I improved a lot," Powers said. "Going into today, I was more of a third-round or fifth-round guy, but who knows? I might have sneaked up into that second round after today. But I'm not going to worry about that. Wherever I get drafted, it will be a blessing. If I go second, if I go seventh round, it'd be a blessing either way. Because I know once I get on a team and get it going, I'll be fine."
At least one former teammate is confident. Former Auburn defensive back and current Green Bay Packer Pat Lee interrupted an interview by throwing his arm over Powers' shoulder and declaring, "You're going to make money. You've got a lot of money coming your way."
Powers said his decision to leave after his junior season had nothing to do with the change in coaching staff.
"I didn't believe my status as a corner was going to change from year to year," Powers said. "A lot of people were saying that the coaches were the factor or this was a factor, and that had nothing to do with it at all. I would have had a great time playing for coach (Gene) Chizik."
More than a dozen other players worked out for scouts, including:
?Running back Tristan Davis, who said doctors have discovered and corrected the source of some of his chronic foot problems.
?Linebacker Chris Evans, a Prichard native and former Blount standout. His younger brother Jonathan, who will join the team this summer, was there to watch.
?Running back Brad Lester, who was so nervous that he threw up Tuesday morning. He calmed his nerves in time for the pro day.
"I'm pretty confident I will (be drafted), but if not that will just motivate me even more," he said.
?Offensive lineman Tyronne Green, who was exhausted after doing a solo workout for scouts. At the NFL combine, players are in large groups, so there's plenty of rest in between.
"They were pushing me to see how I handle being tired," Green said.
?Former linebacker Steve Gandy, who retired in August 2007 due to multiple concussions but is giving pro football one last shot.
?Former Auburn tight end Cooper Wallace, who was cut by San Francisco last September but is hoping to pick up a camp invitation in 2009. He also said he would be looking at opportunities in the Canadian Football League.
Two players - receiver Robert Dunn and linebacker Tray Blackmon - were conspicuous by their absence. Dunn was originally listed as a participant.
Many former players attended as spectators and supporters, including Lee, Marcus McNeil, Jonathan Palmer, Pat Sims, Marquies Gunn, John Vaughn, Blake Field and Calvin Booker.
Former quarterback Brandon Cox threw passes for receivers and running backs in their drills.
"I told Cox I wish he could have played (in 2008)," said receiver Rod Smith.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Draft Class 2009: Tristan Davis Blazes 4.38 40yd at Pro Day
Auburn Pro Day: Tristan Davis fastest of all - The Gold Mine - al.com: "Auburn Pro Day: Tristan Davis fastest of all
Posted by Charles Goldberg -- Birmingham News March 10, 2009 4:52 PM
Categories: Football
It shouldn't come as a surprise that Tristan Davis turned in the fastest time at Auburn's Pro Day on Tuesday. The oft-injured running back turned in a time of 4.38 seconds in the 40-yard dash, according to times provided by Auburn.
Todd Van Emst/Auburn
Sen'Derrick Marks makes his moveDavis was always a step away from greatness -- if he was on the field. It seems he was always slowed by something, like foot injuries. We would like to see somebody take a shot on him. Receiver James Swinton was a blink behind, at 4.39.
Funny, Davis had eight carries and Swinton caught two passes last season.
Davis said his injuries are behind him.
'I think today went pretty well. I don't know my exact numbers but from the comments I've gotten I think I did pretty well,'' he said.
'My health is very good. I found out another thing that was wrong with my feet. We got that eliminated. It was something very simple that we never thought of. My hamstring is feeling a lot better, my feet, my shoulder, everything I've ever had problems with. I think I just needed a little rest, and I got that, and a lot of good work in.'
Defensive back Jerraud Powers went 4.44. Running back Brad Lester ran it in 4.48 seconds. Defensive end Sen'Derrick Marks, who is leaving Auburn a year early, doesn't show a 40 time because of a bad hamstring, but did the bench press and broad jump and we have photo evidence of the shuttle run.
Here are the results of Pro Day:Numbers provided by Auburn:
Only the best time/mark is listed
Heights are rounded up or down to the neares"
Posted by Charles Goldberg -- Birmingham News March 10, 2009 4:52 PM
Categories: Football
It shouldn't come as a surprise that Tristan Davis turned in the fastest time at Auburn's Pro Day on Tuesday. The oft-injured running back turned in a time of 4.38 seconds in the 40-yard dash, according to times provided by Auburn.
Todd Van Emst/Auburn
Sen'Derrick Marks makes his moveDavis was always a step away from greatness -- if he was on the field. It seems he was always slowed by something, like foot injuries. We would like to see somebody take a shot on him. Receiver James Swinton was a blink behind, at 4.39.
Funny, Davis had eight carries and Swinton caught two passes last season.
Davis said his injuries are behind him.
'I think today went pretty well. I don't know my exact numbers but from the comments I've gotten I think I did pretty well,'' he said.
'My health is very good. I found out another thing that was wrong with my feet. We got that eliminated. It was something very simple that we never thought of. My hamstring is feeling a lot better, my feet, my shoulder, everything I've ever had problems with. I think I just needed a little rest, and I got that, and a lot of good work in.'
Defensive back Jerraud Powers went 4.44. Running back Brad Lester ran it in 4.48 seconds. Defensive end Sen'Derrick Marks, who is leaving Auburn a year early, doesn't show a 40 time because of a bad hamstring, but did the bench press and broad jump and we have photo evidence of the shuttle run.
Here are the results of Pro Day:Numbers provided by Auburn:
Only the best time/mark is listed
Heights are rounded up or down to the neares"
Monday, March 16, 2009
Draft Class 2009: Pro Day Update
It was nearing the end of Pro Day when we noticed the very strange sight of nose guard Tez Doolittle removing his shirt and offering front and back poses for an NFL scout/amateur photographer.
So what was that all about?
Doolittle just shrugged. Ahh, the glamorous life of an NFL prospect.
In fairness, the scout probably wanted to show others in his organization (the Oakland Raiders) just how ripped Doolittle was. Tez said he's been working out like a maniac, and it showed.
Doolittle seemed to have a solid performance Tuesday. If he gets drafted in April, it would add another chapter to what has already been an incredible comeback story. Doolittle tore his Achilles tendon in August of 2007 and thought his career was done. But he made a faster than expected recovery, gained a sixth year of eligibility to play in 2008 and is now a potential draftee in 2009.
"I never thought I'd be standing here," Doolittle said.
Some more notes and quotes from Pro Day...
* Cornerback Jerraud Powers is working out in Los Angeles, where he said the weather is fantastic. Powers said he's hoping to be a mid-round pick.
He left Auburn early because he didn't expect his draft status to change much between his junior and senior year.
"A lot of people were saying that the coaches were the factor or this was a factor, and that had nothing to do with it at all," Powers said. "I would have had a great time playing for coach Chizik."
Current NFL-er Pat Lee interrupted at one point to give Powers a hug.
"You're going to make money," Lee said. "You've got a lot of money coming your way."
* Defensive lineman Sen'Derrick Marks, another early draft entrant, was disappointed with his day.
He's still recovering from a hamstring injury and didn't feel like he was able to go as fast as he wanted to. He said he's hoping to get some personal workouts with NFL teams that are interested in him.
* Receiver Rod Smith said he felt good after two months of training in Charlotte. A former uninvited walk-on, Smith is hoping to be a similar surprise in the NFL.
"The NFL draft is a crazy thing," he said.
* Running back Tristan Davis, who had chronic foot issues in college, said that problem is now solved.
* Linebacker Chris Evans was disappointed in his times. He thought he could have run a faster 40.
* Running back Brad Lester was so nervous he threw up this morning.
"I'm pretty confident I will (be drafted), but if not that will just motivate me even more," he said.
Lester has been training in New Jersey.
* Offensive lineman Tyronne Green was exhausted after doing a solo workout for scouts. At the NFL combine, players are in large groups, so there's plenty of rest in between.
"They were pushing me to see how I handle being tired," Green said.
He's training in Phoenix, Ariz., and said he is getting solid feedback from teams.
* Former linebacker Steve Gandy, who retired in August of 2007 due to multiple concussions, worked out for scouts.
* Former Auburn quarterback Brandon Cox, now in pharmaceutical sales, came out of retirement to throw passes for receivers and running backs.
"I told Cox I wish he could have played (in 2008)." Smith said.
A lot of Auburn fans (and former coach Tommy Tuberville) probably feel the same way.
* In addition to Cox, former quarterbacks Blake Field and Calvin Booker were on hand to watch. Other former players included Marcus McNeil, Jonathan Palmer, Pat Sims, Pat Lee, Marquies Gunn , John Vaughn and many others.
* Basketball power couple Quantez Robertson and Sherell Hobbs were on hand.
* Conspicuous in their absence were linebacker Tray Blackmon and Robert Dunn.
* Former Auburn tight end Cooper Wallace participated in the hopes of getting an NFL camp invitation. Wallace was cut by San Francisco last September and wasn't able to latch on with another team. He also plans to pursue possibilities in Canadian Football.
* Here are some numbers courtesy of Auburn media relations. These are unofficial, hand-timed numbers. Only the best time is listed. Broad jump is a standing broad jump, not like long jump in track and field. Bench press is number of reps at 225 pounds. Some players elected not to participate in all drills.
Name Ht. Wt. 40-yd Vert. Broad Jump Bench
Tristan Davis 5-9 212 4.38 31.0 9-9 18
Tez Doolittle 6-2 285 4.92 29.5 8-8 22
Chris Evans 5-11 222 4.95 29.5 9-2 14
Steve Gandy 6-0 218 4.65 31.5 9-6 14
Tyronne Green 6-2 308 N/A 28.5 8-6 N/A
Ryan Hastie 5-11 239 4.85 34.5 9-5 17
Merrill Johnson 5-11 206 4.60 40.0 10-5.5 17
Brad Lester 5-9 190 4.48 38.5 10-4 18
Sen'Derrick Marks 6-1 301 N/A N/A 9-6 16
Charles Olatunji 6-1 194 4.62 37.5 11-1.5 14
Jerraud Powers 5-9 187 4.44 35.0 10-3 N/A
Robert Shiver 6-1 233 4.74 30.5 9-9 13
Rodgeriqus Smith 6-0 200 4.63 33.0 10-3 6
James Swinton 5-11 174 4.39 42.0 10-11 8
Cooper Wallace 6-3 254 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Source: Evan Woodbury blog from al.com
http://blog.al.com/auburnbeat/2009/03/tez_doolittle_jerraud_powers_h.html
So what was that all about?
Doolittle just shrugged. Ahh, the glamorous life of an NFL prospect.
In fairness, the scout probably wanted to show others in his organization (the Oakland Raiders) just how ripped Doolittle was. Tez said he's been working out like a maniac, and it showed.
Doolittle seemed to have a solid performance Tuesday. If he gets drafted in April, it would add another chapter to what has already been an incredible comeback story. Doolittle tore his Achilles tendon in August of 2007 and thought his career was done. But he made a faster than expected recovery, gained a sixth year of eligibility to play in 2008 and is now a potential draftee in 2009.
"I never thought I'd be standing here," Doolittle said.
Some more notes and quotes from Pro Day...
* Cornerback Jerraud Powers is working out in Los Angeles, where he said the weather is fantastic. Powers said he's hoping to be a mid-round pick.
He left Auburn early because he didn't expect his draft status to change much between his junior and senior year.
"A lot of people were saying that the coaches were the factor or this was a factor, and that had nothing to do with it at all," Powers said. "I would have had a great time playing for coach Chizik."
Current NFL-er Pat Lee interrupted at one point to give Powers a hug.
"You're going to make money," Lee said. "You've got a lot of money coming your way."
* Defensive lineman Sen'Derrick Marks, another early draft entrant, was disappointed with his day.
He's still recovering from a hamstring injury and didn't feel like he was able to go as fast as he wanted to. He said he's hoping to get some personal workouts with NFL teams that are interested in him.
* Receiver Rod Smith said he felt good after two months of training in Charlotte. A former uninvited walk-on, Smith is hoping to be a similar surprise in the NFL.
"The NFL draft is a crazy thing," he said.
* Running back Tristan Davis, who had chronic foot issues in college, said that problem is now solved.
* Linebacker Chris Evans was disappointed in his times. He thought he could have run a faster 40.
* Running back Brad Lester was so nervous he threw up this morning.
"I'm pretty confident I will (be drafted), but if not that will just motivate me even more," he said.
Lester has been training in New Jersey.
* Offensive lineman Tyronne Green was exhausted after doing a solo workout for scouts. At the NFL combine, players are in large groups, so there's plenty of rest in between.
"They were pushing me to see how I handle being tired," Green said.
He's training in Phoenix, Ariz., and said he is getting solid feedback from teams.
* Former linebacker Steve Gandy, who retired in August of 2007 due to multiple concussions, worked out for scouts.
* Former Auburn quarterback Brandon Cox, now in pharmaceutical sales, came out of retirement to throw passes for receivers and running backs.
"I told Cox I wish he could have played (in 2008)." Smith said.
A lot of Auburn fans (and former coach Tommy Tuberville) probably feel the same way.
* In addition to Cox, former quarterbacks Blake Field and Calvin Booker were on hand to watch. Other former players included Marcus McNeil, Jonathan Palmer, Pat Sims, Pat Lee, Marquies Gunn , John Vaughn and many others.
* Basketball power couple Quantez Robertson and Sherell Hobbs were on hand.
* Conspicuous in their absence were linebacker Tray Blackmon and Robert Dunn.
* Former Auburn tight end Cooper Wallace participated in the hopes of getting an NFL camp invitation. Wallace was cut by San Francisco last September and wasn't able to latch on with another team. He also plans to pursue possibilities in Canadian Football.
* Here are some numbers courtesy of Auburn media relations. These are unofficial, hand-timed numbers. Only the best time is listed. Broad jump is a standing broad jump, not like long jump in track and field. Bench press is number of reps at 225 pounds. Some players elected not to participate in all drills.
Name Ht. Wt. 40-yd Vert. Broad Jump Bench
Tristan Davis 5-9 212 4.38 31.0 9-9 18
Tez Doolittle 6-2 285 4.92 29.5 8-8 22
Chris Evans 5-11 222 4.95 29.5 9-2 14
Steve Gandy 6-0 218 4.65 31.5 9-6 14
Tyronne Green 6-2 308 N/A 28.5 8-6 N/A
Ryan Hastie 5-11 239 4.85 34.5 9-5 17
Merrill Johnson 5-11 206 4.60 40.0 10-5.5 17
Brad Lester 5-9 190 4.48 38.5 10-4 18
Sen'Derrick Marks 6-1 301 N/A N/A 9-6 16
Charles Olatunji 6-1 194 4.62 37.5 11-1.5 14
Jerraud Powers 5-9 187 4.44 35.0 10-3 N/A
Robert Shiver 6-1 233 4.74 30.5 9-9 13
Rodgeriqus Smith 6-0 200 4.63 33.0 10-3 6
James Swinton 5-11 174 4.39 42.0 10-11 8
Cooper Wallace 6-3 254 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Source: Evan Woodbury blog from al.com
http://blog.al.com/auburnbeat/2009/03/tez_doolittle_jerraud_powers_h.html
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Draft Class 2009: Pro Day Overview, Players Present & Results
AU FOOTBALL: Former Tigers show off on Pro Day | Opelika-Auburn News: "Two distinct groups emerged at Tuesday’s Pro Day at the Auburn University practice fields.
In one corner, you had the trio of Tigers who already went through a thorough evaluation in front of hundreds of scouts and rubbed elbows with college football’s elite at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis in February.
“We was like naked everywhere we went,” cornerback Jerraud Powers said of the national combine. “It’s just a different environment (at Auburn). It was more relaxing. That’s why I was just out there having fun, trying to do my best.”
In the other corner, though, were the newbies.
“I actually threw up like two or three times before I got here,” tailback Brad Lester said.
But once the festivities were under way, it was gameday for the 15 former players.
“Coming from Jordan-Hare and seeing so many fans, you’re used to the eyes,” linebacker Chris Evans said of the 100 or so onlookers and scouts from all 32 NFL teams. “You’re just not used to the clock.”
Some players, such as Powers, Sen’Derrick Marks and Tyronne Green, came into the day knowing they will be drafted at some point the
weekend of April 25 and 26. Others, such as Tez Doolittle and Lester, have reason to believe they’ll get a call, but still need every
opportunity to impress.
And then there were players who weren’t even on the team in 2008, such as Cooper Wallace and Steve Gandy, out to give it one last shot.
“Sometimes, your body gets to a point where it needs a break,” said former linebacker Steve Gandy, who retired in 2007 after multiple concussi"
In one corner, you had the trio of Tigers who already went through a thorough evaluation in front of hundreds of scouts and rubbed elbows with college football’s elite at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis in February.
“We was like naked everywhere we went,” cornerback Jerraud Powers said of the national combine. “It’s just a different environment (at Auburn). It was more relaxing. That’s why I was just out there having fun, trying to do my best.”
In the other corner, though, were the newbies.
“I actually threw up like two or three times before I got here,” tailback Brad Lester said.
But once the festivities were under way, it was gameday for the 15 former players.
“Coming from Jordan-Hare and seeing so many fans, you’re used to the eyes,” linebacker Chris Evans said of the 100 or so onlookers and scouts from all 32 NFL teams. “You’re just not used to the clock.”
Some players, such as Powers, Sen’Derrick Marks and Tyronne Green, came into the day knowing they will be drafted at some point the
weekend of April 25 and 26. Others, such as Tez Doolittle and Lester, have reason to believe they’ll get a call, but still need every
opportunity to impress.
And then there were players who weren’t even on the team in 2008, such as Cooper Wallace and Steve Gandy, out to give it one last shot.
“Sometimes, your body gets to a point where it needs a break,” said former linebacker Steve Gandy, who retired in 2007 after multiple concussi"
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Sen'Derrick Marks: Combine DTs Averaged Just 2.76 Recruiting Stars From High School
Lots of different topics in this week's mailbag:
From Duane in Tustin, Calif.: The Pro Bowl analysis got me thinking about how overrated recruiting rankings really are. I know you did a book about what really goes on during the evaluation process, but how closely do these staffs monitor the accuracy of the recruiting sites as well as do their own studies to learn if there is a smarter way to go about their recruiting pursuits?
Feldman: Many programs do conduct post-mortems and various studies like what you're talking about when it comes to recruiting because so much time and money are spent in the process and obviously jobs depend on it. Kent McLeod, Duke's director of football relations, is one of the brightest people I know. He had worked in Ole Miss' recruiting office for years, starting out under Tommy Tuberville and then staying through David Cutcliffe and Ed Orgeron. I probably picked McLeod's brain more than anyone's in all my time down in Mississippi. This week, he finished doing a project charting every player at the NFL combine that included what position they were supposedly projected at and their star ranking by the two major Internet recruiting sites, Rivals.com and Scout.com. The results of the spreadsheets are fascinating.
QB: There were 21 listed. Four didn't even receive one star. Fifteen received three stars or fewer. The average rating was 2.67 stars. The two top prospects, Georgia's Matt Stafford and USC's Mark Sanchez were two of the three five-stars. (Rhett Bomar was the other.)
RB: There were 31 listed. The average tailback star rating was 2.81. The average FB was 2.50. The only players who got any five-star ratings were Beanie Wells, LeSean McCoy and Mike Goodson. Fourteen of the backs had ratings of two or fewer stars, including UConn's Donald Brown, Boise State's Ian Johnson, Liberty's Rashad Jennings and Syracuse FB Tiny Fiammetta.
WR: There were 44 listed. Ten had ratings of fewer than two stars, including Rice's Jarrett Dillard, Penn State's Deon Butler and Cal Poly's Ramses Barden. Michael Crabtree was rated by one of the sites as a four-star and as a two-star by the other site. The average rating was 2.63.
TE: There were 21 listed. The physical growth was from an average high school weight of 222 to 250 for the Combine. The average rating was just 2.12, and McLeod points out that's probably partly because there is so much projection going on with this position. It's also curious to see that only one-third of these guys were actually projected by the recruiting sites to play tight end. Six were QBs; five were wide receivers. Two of the guys pro scouts tout as the top blockers -- NC State's Anthony Hill and Fresno State's Bear Pascoe -- were a defensive end and a QB/LB.
OT: There were 27 listed. Three were unanimous five-stars: Ohio State's Alex Boone, Alabama's Andre Smith and Virginia's Eugene Monroe. The guy many scouts project as the top OT, Baylor's Jason Smith, was a two-star, who has reportedly gone from being 225 pounds to 309. Average rating: 2.74.
OG: There were 19 listed. The average rating was 2.29. The biggest gainer was BYU's Travis Bright, who was listed at 210 from newspaper reports during high school and showed up at the combine at 321.
C: There were 13 listed. The group's size went from an average of 272 in high school to an average combine weight of 302. Stanford's Alex Fletcher boosted the star ratings, as he was a four- and five-star guy. The three top-rated guys according to most scouts now were all two-star guys: Oregon's Max Unger, Cal's Alex Mack and Louisville's Eric Wood. Average rating: 2.38 stars.
DT: There were 23 listed. Only Texas' Roy Miller got five stars. He was a four-star on the other site. SJ State's Jarron Gilbert, the guy who became a YouTube phenom for his jumping-out-of-the-pool stunt, was a 240-pound no-star recruit who is now a 288-pounder.
B.J. Raji from BC, the consensus top DT, was just a two-star. In looking at this bunch, most of the top college performers weren't considering big guys. Georgia Tech's Vance Walker, now 304, was a 255-pound two-star; Sen'Derrick Marks from Auburn, now 306, was a 265-pound two-star; Ole Miss' Peria Jerry, now 299, was a 280-pound two-/three-star and Mizzou's Ziggy Hood, now 300, was a 230-pound two-/three-star DE recruit. Average rating: 2.76.
DE: There were 30 listed. The average weight has jumped from 237 to 268. There were no five-stars. Some of the top-rated pro prospects came in as the lightest: Texas' Brian Orakpo, then a 213-pound three-/four-star, now 263; Penn State's Aaron Maybin, then a 211-pound four-star, now 249; and Tennessee's Robert Ayers, then a 230-pound four-star LB, now 270. Average rating: 2.25.
LB: There were 27 linebackers. The ILBs panned out better than the outside guys. The ILBs had a 3.11 rating, while the OLBs were 2.50. The fastest riser has been Wake's Aaron Curry, who went from being a 210-pound two-star to a 254-pound possible top overall pick.
S: There were 24 listed. There were two guys who came in as four-stars: Mississippi State's Derek Pegues and Oklahoma's Lendy Holmes; neither was touted as a safety initially. Pegues had been a QB/CB, and Holmes was a WR. Average rating: 2.56.
CB: There were 35 listed. Average star rating is 2.23.
McLeod says he searched for documented weights because those would be the weights colleges would have on their recruiting boards unless the recruits came to their camps. He adds that this should serve as a reminder to staffs that might be tempted to dismiss some players in the recruiting process who might seem too light.
It also shows that schools that take projects, like Jason Smith at Baylor or Aaron Curry at Wake, where you have players who can run but don't possess the bulk in high school, often get rewarded because in time they can develop past those hyped-up bigger guys who might not move as well.
Source: espn's Bruce Feldman Blog
http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=3958324&name=feldman_bruce&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fespn%2fblog%2findex%3fentryID%3d3958324%26name%3dfeldman_bruce
From Duane in Tustin, Calif.: The Pro Bowl analysis got me thinking about how overrated recruiting rankings really are. I know you did a book about what really goes on during the evaluation process, but how closely do these staffs monitor the accuracy of the recruiting sites as well as do their own studies to learn if there is a smarter way to go about their recruiting pursuits?
Feldman: Many programs do conduct post-mortems and various studies like what you're talking about when it comes to recruiting because so much time and money are spent in the process and obviously jobs depend on it. Kent McLeod, Duke's director of football relations, is one of the brightest people I know. He had worked in Ole Miss' recruiting office for years, starting out under Tommy Tuberville and then staying through David Cutcliffe and Ed Orgeron. I probably picked McLeod's brain more than anyone's in all my time down in Mississippi. This week, he finished doing a project charting every player at the NFL combine that included what position they were supposedly projected at and their star ranking by the two major Internet recruiting sites, Rivals.com and Scout.com. The results of the spreadsheets are fascinating.
QB: There were 21 listed. Four didn't even receive one star. Fifteen received three stars or fewer. The average rating was 2.67 stars. The two top prospects, Georgia's Matt Stafford and USC's Mark Sanchez were two of the three five-stars. (Rhett Bomar was the other.)
RB: There were 31 listed. The average tailback star rating was 2.81. The average FB was 2.50. The only players who got any five-star ratings were Beanie Wells, LeSean McCoy and Mike Goodson. Fourteen of the backs had ratings of two or fewer stars, including UConn's Donald Brown, Boise State's Ian Johnson, Liberty's Rashad Jennings and Syracuse FB Tiny Fiammetta.
WR: There were 44 listed. Ten had ratings of fewer than two stars, including Rice's Jarrett Dillard, Penn State's Deon Butler and Cal Poly's Ramses Barden. Michael Crabtree was rated by one of the sites as a four-star and as a two-star by the other site. The average rating was 2.63.
TE: There were 21 listed. The physical growth was from an average high school weight of 222 to 250 for the Combine. The average rating was just 2.12, and McLeod points out that's probably partly because there is so much projection going on with this position. It's also curious to see that only one-third of these guys were actually projected by the recruiting sites to play tight end. Six were QBs; five were wide receivers. Two of the guys pro scouts tout as the top blockers -- NC State's Anthony Hill and Fresno State's Bear Pascoe -- were a defensive end and a QB/LB.
OT: There were 27 listed. Three were unanimous five-stars: Ohio State's Alex Boone, Alabama's Andre Smith and Virginia's Eugene Monroe. The guy many scouts project as the top OT, Baylor's Jason Smith, was a two-star, who has reportedly gone from being 225 pounds to 309. Average rating: 2.74.
OG: There were 19 listed. The average rating was 2.29. The biggest gainer was BYU's Travis Bright, who was listed at 210 from newspaper reports during high school and showed up at the combine at 321.
C: There were 13 listed. The group's size went from an average of 272 in high school to an average combine weight of 302. Stanford's Alex Fletcher boosted the star ratings, as he was a four- and five-star guy. The three top-rated guys according to most scouts now were all two-star guys: Oregon's Max Unger, Cal's Alex Mack and Louisville's Eric Wood. Average rating: 2.38 stars.
DT: There were 23 listed. Only Texas' Roy Miller got five stars. He was a four-star on the other site. SJ State's Jarron Gilbert, the guy who became a YouTube phenom for his jumping-out-of-the-pool stunt, was a 240-pound no-star recruit who is now a 288-pounder.
B.J. Raji from BC, the consensus top DT, was just a two-star. In looking at this bunch, most of the top college performers weren't considering big guys. Georgia Tech's Vance Walker, now 304, was a 255-pound two-star; Sen'Derrick Marks from Auburn, now 306, was a 265-pound two-star; Ole Miss' Peria Jerry, now 299, was a 280-pound two-/three-star and Mizzou's Ziggy Hood, now 300, was a 230-pound two-/three-star DE recruit. Average rating: 2.76.
DE: There were 30 listed. The average weight has jumped from 237 to 268. There were no five-stars. Some of the top-rated pro prospects came in as the lightest: Texas' Brian Orakpo, then a 213-pound three-/four-star, now 263; Penn State's Aaron Maybin, then a 211-pound four-star, now 249; and Tennessee's Robert Ayers, then a 230-pound four-star LB, now 270. Average rating: 2.25.
LB: There were 27 linebackers. The ILBs panned out better than the outside guys. The ILBs had a 3.11 rating, while the OLBs were 2.50. The fastest riser has been Wake's Aaron Curry, who went from being a 210-pound two-star to a 254-pound possible top overall pick.
S: There were 24 listed. There were two guys who came in as four-stars: Mississippi State's Derek Pegues and Oklahoma's Lendy Holmes; neither was touted as a safety initially. Pegues had been a QB/CB, and Holmes was a WR. Average rating: 2.56.
CB: There were 35 listed. Average star rating is 2.23.
McLeod says he searched for documented weights because those would be the weights colleges would have on their recruiting boards unless the recruits came to their camps. He adds that this should serve as a reminder to staffs that might be tempted to dismiss some players in the recruiting process who might seem too light.
It also shows that schools that take projects, like Jason Smith at Baylor or Aaron Curry at Wake, where you have players who can run but don't possess the bulk in high school, often get rewarded because in time they can develop past those hyped-up bigger guys who might not move as well.
Source: espn's Bruce Feldman Blog
http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=3958324&name=feldman_bruce&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fespn%2fblog%2findex%3fentryID%3d3958324%26name%3dfeldman_bruce
Friday, March 6, 2009
Jonathan Wilhite: Will Compete Against Pro Bowler To Start
(Shawn) Springs will also serve as competition for second-year cornerbacks Jonathan Wilhite, who started the final four games of the season at left corner, and Terrence Wheatley, whose season was ended by a dislocated left wrist.
Source: Boston.com
http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2009/03/06/patriots_acquire_depth/?page=full
Source: Boston.com
http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2009/03/06/patriots_acquire_depth/?page=full
Heath Evans: From Patriot to Saint
The Patriots lost a free agent when venerable fullback Heath Evans signed a two-year deal with the Saints.
The 30-year-old Evans was signed by the Patriots midway through the 2005 season after being released by the Dolphins and his most memorable game came that season, when he had a career-high 84 yards on 17 carries in a 23-16 win over his former team.
Evans was a valuable and versatile back, as well as a key special teams contributor. In three-plus seasons in New England, he rushed 123 times for 453 yards and three touchdowns and caught 24 passes for 224 yards and a score. Last season, Evans rushed 11 times for 23 yards and caught three passes for 59 yards. He added four special teams tackles.
Evans's departure leaves the Patriots without a true fullback. Evans had visited with the Saints Tuesday and Wednesday.
"Heath is a versatile and fundamentally sound fullback who can help our offense in a variety of roles, whether it be as a lead blocker, as a runner, or receiving option out of the backfield as well as on special teams," Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said in a statement.
"He has played in a few different offensive systems and has adapted quickly and been a contributor to all of them."
Source: Boston.com
http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2009/03/06/patriots_acquire_depth/?page=full
The 30-year-old Evans was signed by the Patriots midway through the 2005 season after being released by the Dolphins and his most memorable game came that season, when he had a career-high 84 yards on 17 carries in a 23-16 win over his former team.
Evans was a valuable and versatile back, as well as a key special teams contributor. In three-plus seasons in New England, he rushed 123 times for 453 yards and three touchdowns and caught 24 passes for 224 yards and a score. Last season, Evans rushed 11 times for 23 yards and caught three passes for 59 yards. He added four special teams tackles.
Evans's departure leaves the Patriots without a true fullback. Evans had visited with the Saints Tuesday and Wednesday.
"Heath is a versatile and fundamentally sound fullback who can help our offense in a variety of roles, whether it be as a lead blocker, as a runner, or receiving option out of the backfield as well as on special teams," Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said in a statement.
"He has played in a few different offensive systems and has adapted quickly and been a contributor to all of them."
Source: Boston.com
http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2009/03/06/patriots_acquire_depth/?page=full
Sen'Derrick Marks: Option For Panthers' Move to Tampa-2 Defense
Panthers Move to Tampa-2 Defense Might Be Complicated - Cat Scratch Reader: "So who does that leave as possible Cover 2 DT's the Panthers might pursue? It still leaves highly rated Peria Jerry (299, 2.94), Ziggy Hood (300, 291) and Jerron Gilbert (288, 4.87). Borderline considerations might lie with Sen'Derrick Marks (306, 5.01) and Dorell Scott (312, 4.92) among the Top 12 on Walter Football."
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Ronnie Brown: He & Wildcat Formation Rejuvinated Dolphins Season After 1-16 Disaste
Oakland Raiders Personnel Tailor-Made for a Savage Wildcat Hybrid | Bleacher Report: "In 2008, the Miami Dolphins introduced the incorporation of the Wildcat formation to the NFL—a variation on the 'single-wing' of the 1940's, and a scheme once considered to be a 'gadget-play', or only applicable at the college level.
New GM Bill Parcells and rookie coach Tony Sparano recognized the few strengths of the 1-15 team that they inherited: that being a stable of two Pro Bowl caliber running backs in Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, and decided to focus a large part of their offense to utilizing both backs simultaneously (as opposed to the increasingly popular rotating two-back systems dominating the NFL recently).
In this set, the direct snap could go to either back, who could either: run directly, hand it off to the other back, do a contrary version of play-action and misdirection, flip it to a receiver for an end-around, or option and then pass it downfield.
More often than not, Ronnie Brown took the snaps, due his being an ex-high school quarterback, and a proven, competent passer.
In so doing, the the Dolphins became a successful offense, one that was puzzling to all defensive coordinators, and made a complete 180—ending the season 11-5. Due to their success, they inspired copycats sprouting up in NFL playbooks around the league."
New GM Bill Parcells and rookie coach Tony Sparano recognized the few strengths of the 1-15 team that they inherited: that being a stable of two Pro Bowl caliber running backs in Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, and decided to focus a large part of their offense to utilizing both backs simultaneously (as opposed to the increasingly popular rotating two-back systems dominating the NFL recently).
In this set, the direct snap could go to either back, who could either: run directly, hand it off to the other back, do a contrary version of play-action and misdirection, flip it to a receiver for an end-around, or option and then pass it downfield.
More often than not, Ronnie Brown took the snaps, due his being an ex-high school quarterback, and a proven, competent passer.
In so doing, the the Dolphins became a successful offense, one that was puzzling to all defensive coordinators, and made a complete 180—ending the season 11-5. Due to their success, they inspired copycats sprouting up in NFL playbooks around the league."
Karlos Dansby: Signs Cardinal's One Year 9.7M Franchise Tender
Scout.com: Karlos Dansby Profile: "Arizona Cardinals LB Karlos Dansby has signed his one-year franchise tender, Scout.com has confirmed. The non-exclusive tender carries a one-year, guaranteed salary of $9.678 million.
Dansby was selected by the Cardinals in the second round of the 2004 draft. This is the second year in a row that Arizona has used their franchise tag on him."
Dansby was selected by the Cardinals in the second round of the 2004 draft. This is the second year in a row that Arizona has used their franchise tag on him."
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Tony Richardson: Key Road Paver FB Signs One Year Deal With Jets
Richardson, 37, paved the way for Thomas Jones to lead the AFC in rushing last season.
The three-time Pro Bowl selection helped Priest Holmes to three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in Kansas City from 2001-03, and Larry Johnson in 2005. He did it again the following season in Minnesota with Chester Taylor, and was instrumental in Adrian Peterson becoming a star with 1,341 yards as a rookie in 2007.
Richardson is also in his second two-year term as a member of the NFL Players Association's executive committee, the group in charge of finding a replacement for the late Gene Upshaw as the union's executive director.
Source: AP
http://wcbstv.com/topstories/jets.new.york.2.947524.html
The three-time Pro Bowl selection helped Priest Holmes to three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in Kansas City from 2001-03, and Larry Johnson in 2005. He did it again the following season in Minnesota with Chester Taylor, and was instrumental in Adrian Peterson becoming a star with 1,341 yards as a rookie in 2007.
Richardson is also in his second two-year term as a member of the NFL Players Association's executive committee, the group in charge of finding a replacement for the late Gene Upshaw as the union's executive director.
Source: AP
http://wcbstv.com/topstories/jets.new.york.2.947524.html
Rudi Johnson: NFL Veteran Still The Fifth Best Available Free Agent RB
Without a sure-thing running back coming out of college this year, needy NFL teams probably will have to turn to free agency to fill holes in the backfield. So if nothing else, expect a couple of the guys listed below to get a chance to success - and that's all you can ask for at this point.
Here's how I would rate the group:
1. Derrick Ward. With the Giants having re-signed Brandon Jacobs, the chances of Ward leaving increased. He is the clear frontrunner to be this year's Turner if he decides life as a backup no longer suits him. Thrust immediately into a leading role as Turner was last year, Ward would warrant second- or third-round fantasy consideration.
2. Darren Sproles. As mentioned earlier, it's unlikely he will be anything but a Charger next season. And as LT's backup, he has little value to any fantasy team that doesn't also employ Tomlinson. But if a team were willing to pay the huge price to pry him out of San Diego, that would be a serious "buy" sign and immediately vault him into the fantasy-starter category.
3. LaMont Jordan. I'm still not convinced that Jordan wasn't the Patriots' best back last season, not that that's saying much. If he could stay healthy for a full year - big IF, I know - he could relive his fantasy glory days. Maybe the ideal situation would be for him to stay in New England and become the starter. He'd certainly be more productive than Laurence Maroney was two years ago.
4. Fred Taylor. OK, it's clear this year's group features a bunch of has-beens after the two list-toppers, but don't be surprised if Taylor has a little left in the tank. If he were smart, he'd try to land a similar gig to the one he had in Jacksonville - backing up a guy who tends to get hurt a lot. In the NFL these days, there's a surprisingly high number of these guys.
5. Rudi Johnson. If you can't make it in Cincinnati and Detroit, what does that say for you? To me, it says you need a better situation in which to demonstrate your deteriorating - but not necessarily depleted - skills. Keep an eye on Johnson in training camp. He could latch onto a nice role that could expand as the season progresses, making him someone to consider storing on your roster.
Also potentially on the move: Maurice Morris, Cedric Benson, Warrick Dunn, Correll Buckhalter, Ahman Green, Dominic Rhodes, Michael Pittman, Kevin Jones, Deuce McAllister.
Source: examiner.com fantasy football
http://www.examiner.com/x-604-Fantasy-Football-Examiner~y2009m3d2-Ranking-2009-Free-Agent-Running-Backs
Here's how I would rate the group:
1. Derrick Ward. With the Giants having re-signed Brandon Jacobs, the chances of Ward leaving increased. He is the clear frontrunner to be this year's Turner if he decides life as a backup no longer suits him. Thrust immediately into a leading role as Turner was last year, Ward would warrant second- or third-round fantasy consideration.
2. Darren Sproles. As mentioned earlier, it's unlikely he will be anything but a Charger next season. And as LT's backup, he has little value to any fantasy team that doesn't also employ Tomlinson. But if a team were willing to pay the huge price to pry him out of San Diego, that would be a serious "buy" sign and immediately vault him into the fantasy-starter category.
3. LaMont Jordan. I'm still not convinced that Jordan wasn't the Patriots' best back last season, not that that's saying much. If he could stay healthy for a full year - big IF, I know - he could relive his fantasy glory days. Maybe the ideal situation would be for him to stay in New England and become the starter. He'd certainly be more productive than Laurence Maroney was two years ago.
4. Fred Taylor. OK, it's clear this year's group features a bunch of has-beens after the two list-toppers, but don't be surprised if Taylor has a little left in the tank. If he were smart, he'd try to land a similar gig to the one he had in Jacksonville - backing up a guy who tends to get hurt a lot. In the NFL these days, there's a surprisingly high number of these guys.
5. Rudi Johnson. If you can't make it in Cincinnati and Detroit, what does that say for you? To me, it says you need a better situation in which to demonstrate your deteriorating - but not necessarily depleted - skills. Keep an eye on Johnson in training camp. He could latch onto a nice role that could expand as the season progresses, making him someone to consider storing on your roster.
Also potentially on the move: Maurice Morris, Cedric Benson, Warrick Dunn, Correll Buckhalter, Ahman Green, Dominic Rhodes, Michael Pittman, Kevin Jones, Deuce McAllister.
Source: examiner.com fantasy football
http://www.examiner.com/x-604-Fantasy-Football-Examiner~y2009m3d2-Ranking-2009-Free-Agent-Running-Backs
Bo Jackson: Sends Roses For Auburn's Fortner And Her Lady Tigers
As the No. 7 Auburn women's basketball team prepares for the SEC tournament this week, one legendary Auburn figure wanted players to know he was thinking of them.
Bo Jackson, a celebrated Auburn athlete in football and baseball, sent head coach Nell Fortner a bouquet of flowers this morning (on her 50th birthday). He also sent red roses to each of the players on the women's basketball team. The accompanying note wished them good luck in the post-season and offered his ring size for when they win it all.
It was, to the say least, an incredibly nice gesture and Fortner said the players were thrilled.
How did Bo become such a big women's basketball fan? Fortner met him for the first time last summer at a golf tournament. To her surprise, Jackson said he followed the team and knew all about the players. Fortner invited him to visit anytime. He did that last week, giving an inspirational speech to the team.
There's another connection. Jackson's daughter Morgan is a freshman at Auburn and lives on the same floor with Auburn freshman Chantel Hilliard. The two have become good friends.
Auburn opens the conference tournament Friday in North Little Rock, Ark., against the winner of a first-round game between Arkansas and Ole Miss. More on that in the days to come.
Source: al.com's Goldmine blog
http://blog.al.com/auburnbeat/2009/03/auburn_legend_bo_jackson_has_s.html
Bo Jackson, a celebrated Auburn athlete in football and baseball, sent head coach Nell Fortner a bouquet of flowers this morning (on her 50th birthday). He also sent red roses to each of the players on the women's basketball team. The accompanying note wished them good luck in the post-season and offered his ring size for when they win it all.
It was, to the say least, an incredibly nice gesture and Fortner said the players were thrilled.
How did Bo become such a big women's basketball fan? Fortner met him for the first time last summer at a golf tournament. To her surprise, Jackson said he followed the team and knew all about the players. Fortner invited him to visit anytime. He did that last week, giving an inspirational speech to the team.
There's another connection. Jackson's daughter Morgan is a freshman at Auburn and lives on the same floor with Auburn freshman Chantel Hilliard. The two have become good friends.
Auburn opens the conference tournament Friday in North Little Rock, Ark., against the winner of a first-round game between Arkansas and Ole Miss. More on that in the days to come.
Source: al.com's Goldmine blog
http://blog.al.com/auburnbeat/2009/03/auburn_legend_bo_jackson_has_s.html
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Stanley McClover: Remains A Texan For One Year
DE Stanley McClover, a restricted free agent, re-signed with Houston. Terms were not disclosed. McClover (6-2, 263) was a restricted free agent following his third NFL season. McClover joined the Texans on August 31, 2008 and saw action in the season opener at Pittsburgh (9/7). He was placed on injured reserve four days later with a knee injury.
Source: Scout.com
http://det.scout.com/a.z?s=93&p=2&c=843376
Source: Scout.com
http://det.scout.com/a.z?s=93&p=2&c=843376
Bo Jackson & Ronnie Brown: Rumored to become NFL's First Bankers?
You Talking to Me? Will Bo know banking the way Bo knew football? | Philadelphia Inquirer | 02/25/2009: "Bo Jackson and Ronnie Brown are reportedly teaming up to start banks. As in buy and run them. Because, you know, banks - like the automotive industry and real estate - are thriving right now"
Monday, March 2, 2009
Heath Evans: Free Agent On Bronco's Radar
Sticking to Who & What You Know - Mile High Report: "Heath Evans, Fullback, NE - Evans has been primarily a blocking fullback with the Pats, getting the occasional carry or reception. Over 9 seasons with three teams, Evans has carried the ball 157 times for 561 yards, along with 40 receptions for 328 yards. Evans has scored 4 touchdowns during his NFL career."
Rob Bironas: Most Valuable Titan?
Special Teams- Some may say that K, Rob Bironas is perhaps the most valuable player on the team. He is consistent and reliable and scores much needed points for the conservative Titans. The Titans may g place the franchise tag on Bironas or try and put a long term deal in place. Either way he will be on the roster n 2009 as will veteran P, Craig Hentrich. This position is solid and doesn’t warrant much of a look on draft day.
Source: studyofsports.com
http://www.studyofsports.com/?p=1685
Source: studyofsports.com
http://www.studyofsports.com/?p=1685
Kendall Simmons: OG Starter Released from Pittsburg
· It's a head scratcher to me as to why the Steelers would release guard Kendall Simmons when their offensive line remains an area of concern based on contracts, if not on performance as well. Simmons has been a starter, when healthy, since his rookie year. In fact, he had started 30-straight games at right guard before getting hurt last September. Health may be the issue here again, as money doesn't seem to be. The team takes a bigger cap hit this year by releasing him, so that can't be the motivation. Perhaps his torn Achilles tendon will keep other teams from trying to sign him and the Steelers can bring him back under new terms later. Or, perhaps, that injury and other health issues make him expendable. Even that seems strange though, considering the tenuous contract situations surrounding other offensive linemen such as free agents Marvel Smith, Chris Kemoeatu and Trai Essex at the time of Simmons' release. The Steelers always have a plan. I just don't know what this one is.
· For anyone not convinced the offensive line is an issue (all due respect Willie Colon), there is some interesting reading on footballoutsiders.com. While guards, centers and tackles are not usually positions evaluated by statistics, footballoutsiders.com has come up with formulas to rate offensive lines and how they run and pass block. For the 2008 season, the Steelers offensive line ranked 24th in run blocking and 29th in pass blocking.
Source: Pittsburglive.com
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/s_614009.html
· For anyone not convinced the offensive line is an issue (all due respect Willie Colon), there is some interesting reading on footballoutsiders.com. While guards, centers and tackles are not usually positions evaluated by statistics, footballoutsiders.com has come up with formulas to rate offensive lines and how they run and pass block. For the 2008 season, the Steelers offensive line ranked 24th in run blocking and 29th in pass blocking.
Source: Pittsburglive.com
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/s_614009.html
Dontarrius Thomas: Unrestricted Free Agent Searching For A Team
The Associated Press: 2009 Remaining Unrestricted Free Agents: "Minnesota
Kenderick Allen, DT; Matt Birk, C; Michael Boulware, S; Heath Farwell, LB; Napoleon Harris, LB; Marcus Johnson, T; Jimmy Kennedy, DT; Benny Sapp, CB; Darren Sharper, S; Dontarrious Thomas, LB; Ellis Wyms, DT."
Kenderick Allen, DT; Matt Birk, C; Michael Boulware, S; Heath Farwell, LB; Napoleon Harris, LB; Marcus Johnson, T; Jimmy Kennedy, DT; Benny Sapp, CB; Darren Sharper, S; Dontarrious Thomas, LB; Ellis Wyms, DT."
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Sen'Derrick Marks: Ranked #6 DT by Scout.com
(Sen'Derrick) Marks is an explosive interior lineman who plays with leverage in the trenches. He plays low to the ground, possesses a powerful lower body and displays the ability to stand tall against double teams. He’s quick off the line and jolts the opposition with a quick initial punch that allows for instant penetration up the middle. He uses his hands well, blades through blocks and makes plays in the backfield. – Chris Steuber, Scout.com
Source: Scout.com
http://profootball.scout.com/a.z?s=127&p=8&c=1&nid=3638070
Source: Scout.com
http://profootball.scout.com/a.z?s=127&p=8&c=1&nid=3638070
Jason Campbell: Big Bama OL To Protect AU QB's Back?
The Football Expert: 2009 NFL Mock Draft - 4 Rounds: "13. Washington Redskins - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Andre Smith is going to fall down the draft charts, but it is going to be hard for the Skins to pass on him. The Skins have an aging OL and will take the last of the 'elite' OTs in the draft. Jon Jansen is near the end of his career, Chris Samuels is coming back from an injury. There are also questions at guard. Basically if you care about your quarterback Jason Campbell you worry about his protection and draft Smith and that is just what the 'Skins do. The Skins don't have a 2nd round pick so look for them to try to move down and get a later 1st round pick in addition to a 2nd round pick. If Smith has a poor pro day at Alabama, look for him to continue to drop."
Andre Smith is going to fall down the draft charts, but it is going to be hard for the Skins to pass on him. The Skins have an aging OL and will take the last of the 'elite' OTs in the draft. Jon Jansen is near the end of his career, Chris Samuels is coming back from an injury. There are also questions at guard. Basically if you care about your quarterback Jason Campbell you worry about his protection and draft Smith and that is just what the 'Skins do. The Skins don't have a 2nd round pick so look for them to try to move down and get a later 1st round pick in addition to a 2nd round pick. If Smith has a poor pro day at Alabama, look for him to continue to drop."
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Pat Lee: Packers have high hope for in 2010
Cornerbacks
Franchised: Dunta Robinson (Texans, $9.957 million) says Houston GM Rick Smith lied to him about plans to use the tag; Smith has vowed to continue negotiations on a new deal.Let the bidding begin: Denver leads the list of possible suitors for Bryant McFadden (Steelers) and Ronald Bartell (Rams), two bigger corners who tackle well and are only 27. … Jabari Greer (Bills) reportedly has been offered $20 million over five years to stay put, but he’s looking for $7 million annually.The second tier: Domonique Foxworth (Falcons) never has been a full-time starter, but he’s expected to get eight figures guaranteed. … The Buccaneers are trying to hang onto Phillip Buchanon. … Others who started at least seven games last season include Fakhir Brown (Rams), Andre’ Goodman (Dolphins), Eric Green (Cardinals) and Deltha O’Neal (Patriots).On the street: Chris McAlister, Dre’ Bly, Leigh Bodden, Patrick Surtain, David Barrett.Packers outlook: Starters Al Harris (age 34) and Charles Woodson (32) aren’t getting younger, but Tramon Williams is a promising No. 3 and the team has high hopes for Will Blackmon and Pat Lee. Given the Packers will play less press coverage, though, it remains to be seen how players — particularly Harris — adjust to the new scheme. Jarrett Bush is a restricted free agent.
Source:
http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/article/20090225/PKR01/90225195/1058
Franchised: Dunta Robinson (Texans, $9.957 million) says Houston GM Rick Smith lied to him about plans to use the tag; Smith has vowed to continue negotiations on a new deal.Let the bidding begin: Denver leads the list of possible suitors for Bryant McFadden (Steelers) and Ronald Bartell (Rams), two bigger corners who tackle well and are only 27. … Jabari Greer (Bills) reportedly has been offered $20 million over five years to stay put, but he’s looking for $7 million annually.The second tier: Domonique Foxworth (Falcons) never has been a full-time starter, but he’s expected to get eight figures guaranteed. … The Buccaneers are trying to hang onto Phillip Buchanon. … Others who started at least seven games last season include Fakhir Brown (Rams), Andre’ Goodman (Dolphins), Eric Green (Cardinals) and Deltha O’Neal (Patriots).On the street: Chris McAlister, Dre’ Bly, Leigh Bodden, Patrick Surtain, David Barrett.Packers outlook: Starters Al Harris (age 34) and Charles Woodson (32) aren’t getting younger, but Tramon Williams is a promising No. 3 and the team has high hopes for Will Blackmon and Pat Lee. Given the Packers will play less press coverage, though, it remains to be seen how players — particularly Harris — adjust to the new scheme. Jarrett Bush is a restricted free agent.
Source:
http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/article/20090225/PKR01/90225195/1058
Tray Blackmon: Leaving for CFL to get into NFL
02/06/09 - PRO POTENTIAL: LB Tray Blackmon -- The oft-injured junior decided to leave school a year early and go to the CFL in hopes of establishing himself and getting a possible shot at an NFL roster down the road.
01/09/09 - Linebacker Tray Blackmon is not enrolled at Auburn and plans to sign a contract to play in the Canadian Football League. Blackmon's star-crossed college career included injuries and suspensions. He missed 17 games in three years because of those issues. He finished his Auburn career with 84 tackles. Blackmon was a fan favorite because of his promise, but played in just over half of Auburn's games in three years. He suffered a broken wrist midway through the 2008 season, and then left the team to support his family. Two other players have announced their intentions to leave Auburn to play in the NFL: Defensive tackle Sen'Derrick Marks and defensive back Jerraud Powers. Auburn will also be without two other underclassmen: wide receiver Chris Slaughter is not in school for the spring semester and is not expected back; and defensive back Ryan Williams has enrolled at Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Wesson, Miss. - Charles Goldberg, Birmingham News
11/28/08 - LB Tray Blackmon, one of the best in the SEC when healthy, had left school in mid-semester after breaking his wrist to get a job and take care of his family. However, his roommate, Sen'derrick Marks, said Blackmon is expected back with the team after the first of the year. "He's doing well," Marks said. "He's getting ready to get his cast off. He can't wait to come back next year. It's not like he's down about himself or he's throwing everything away because he couldn't play one year. He's ready to come back."
Source: NFLPlayerscout.com
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=57311&draftyear=2009&genpos=OLB
01/09/09 - Linebacker Tray Blackmon is not enrolled at Auburn and plans to sign a contract to play in the Canadian Football League. Blackmon's star-crossed college career included injuries and suspensions. He missed 17 games in three years because of those issues. He finished his Auburn career with 84 tackles. Blackmon was a fan favorite because of his promise, but played in just over half of Auburn's games in three years. He suffered a broken wrist midway through the 2008 season, and then left the team to support his family. Two other players have announced their intentions to leave Auburn to play in the NFL: Defensive tackle Sen'Derrick Marks and defensive back Jerraud Powers. Auburn will also be without two other underclassmen: wide receiver Chris Slaughter is not in school for the spring semester and is not expected back; and defensive back Ryan Williams has enrolled at Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Wesson, Miss. - Charles Goldberg, Birmingham News
11/28/08 - LB Tray Blackmon, one of the best in the SEC when healthy, had left school in mid-semester after breaking his wrist to get a job and take care of his family. However, his roommate, Sen'derrick Marks, said Blackmon is expected back with the team after the first of the year. "He's doing well," Marks said. "He's getting ready to get his cast off. He can't wait to come back next year. It's not like he's down about himself or he's throwing everything away because he couldn't play one year. He's ready to come back."
Source: NFLPlayerscout.com
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=57311&draftyear=2009&genpos=OLB
Takeo Spikes: Teaming w/Emmons in "51 Ways Charity Foundation"
NFL Players Association › News: "Three weeks into the 2005 season, Buffalo linebacker and two-time Pro-Bowl selection Takeo Spikes, who now plays for San Francisco, suffered a season-ending injury to his Achilles tendon. With more than half the season ahead of him, Spikes took advantage of his recovery period to spend more time in the community--in both Buffalo and his hometown of Atlanta. He divided his time among causes that were important to him—which included supporting a family that lost their home in Hurricane Katrina and speaking to at-risk kids.
Since that time, Spikes has also become actively involved in his 51 Ways Foundation. Spikes and retired linebacker Carlos Emmons created the foundation in 2004 to support families of children who have been diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders through financial, spiritual and physical resources.
The similarities Spikes and Emmons share led them to create their foundation: Until Emmons retired, both wore the number 51 on their jersey; they both live in Atlanta during the off-season; and they both have lost family members to cancer.
“Our organization is unique because it was started by two athletes on two different NFL teams, and our work together can cover more ground and have a greater impact,” Spikes said. “I started it because I wanted to give back and help those in need. I wanted kids who were not from big cities to realize that if they work hard and believe, that they could make it too.”
Spikes hosts an annual 51 Ways Charity Weekend in Atlanta, which is comprised of with events that raise money for research for the AFLAC Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Atlanta at Emory University. In addition, Spikes hosts his annual fashion show known as First and Ten: A Fashion Extravaganza."
Since that time, Spikes has also become actively involved in his 51 Ways Foundation. Spikes and retired linebacker Carlos Emmons created the foundation in 2004 to support families of children who have been diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders through financial, spiritual and physical resources.
The similarities Spikes and Emmons share led them to create their foundation: Until Emmons retired, both wore the number 51 on their jersey; they both live in Atlanta during the off-season; and they both have lost family members to cancer.
“Our organization is unique because it was started by two athletes on two different NFL teams, and our work together can cover more ground and have a greater impact,” Spikes said. “I started it because I wanted to give back and help those in need. I wanted kids who were not from big cities to realize that if they work hard and believe, that they could make it too.”
Spikes hosts an annual 51 Ways Charity Weekend in Atlanta, which is comprised of with events that raise money for research for the AFLAC Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Atlanta at Emory University. In addition, Spikes hosts his annual fashion show known as First and Ten: A Fashion Extravaganza."
Friday, February 27, 2009
Tez Doolittle: "He Don't Need No Stinkin' Combine" (Says Jay Ratliff)
Tez Doolittle isn't among the 325 draft-eligible players invited to the NFL Scouting Combine, which starts this week in Indianapolis.
The nose tackle is among several players on the outside, hoping a good performance in Auburn's March 10-11 pro-day workouts -- where scouts will hover to see other players they'll probably see at the combine -- gets him drafted, or at least a tryout.
"I told Tez, just like someone told me, 'It's not where you start but where you end up,'" Dallas Cowboys nose tackle Jay Ratliff said.
Garden State grows prospects
Seven players who have New Jersey ties, including offensive tackle Eugene Monroe, could be drafted in the first round this year, NFL.com's Pat Kirwan writes. More ...
Ratliff ended up playing in his first Pro Bowl this month -- four years removed from being in the same position as Doolittle. Ratliff, also an Auburn product, wasn't invited to the combine, where likely draft picks are evaluated by officials from the NFL's 32 teams.
Ratliff showed well enough at the East-West Shrine Game to be noticed by a few NFL teams in attendance but not well enough to be added to the combine roster.
His performance at Auburn's Pro Day, which featured running backs Ronnie Brown and Cadillac Williams, cornerback Carlos Rogers and quarterback Jason Campbell, was good enough to pique the interest of at least one team. That's all it took.
The Cowboys drafted Ratliff in the seventh round. Now he's viewed as one of the top nose tackles in the league.
"To this day, I still don't know why I wasn't invited," Ratliff said about the combine. "I always wondered that. People may have been afraid because I went to Auburn as a tight end, then was moved to defensive end, then to nose tackle. I guess they weren't sure because I only spent a year at each position.
"The only thing I know is not getting invited made me that more determined and a lot hungrier. I don't regret anything that happened. It just gave me unbelievable drive. It made me want to go harder. Thinking about it now, I'm getting that feeling all over again. You get looked over, and nobody expects you to make it. When you do, you can tell everybody that you didn't have anything handed to you, but that you've earned it."
A committee of selectors chooses which players are invited to combine. None of the selectors has ties to any particular conference, university, program or player representation agency, although coaches and agents routinely lobby for players to be invited. Typically, the number of those players invited comes out to around 325.
Roughly one-third of the players who are invited to the combine aren't drafted. A couple dozen players who aren't invited are drafted each year. From 1999 to 2007, nearly 190 players who weren't invited to the combine were drafted. Dozens more non-invitees latched on to teams as free agents.
The main reasons players don't make the combine are injuries, having non-NFL-type measurables, a lack of production and playing against lesser competition.
From NFLdraftscout.com:
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=16970&draftyear=2009&genpos=DT
The nose tackle is among several players on the outside, hoping a good performance in Auburn's March 10-11 pro-day workouts -- where scouts will hover to see other players they'll probably see at the combine -- gets him drafted, or at least a tryout.
"I told Tez, just like someone told me, 'It's not where you start but where you end up,'" Dallas Cowboys nose tackle Jay Ratliff said.
Garden State grows prospects
Seven players who have New Jersey ties, including offensive tackle Eugene Monroe, could be drafted in the first round this year, NFL.com's Pat Kirwan writes. More ...
Ratliff ended up playing in his first Pro Bowl this month -- four years removed from being in the same position as Doolittle. Ratliff, also an Auburn product, wasn't invited to the combine, where likely draft picks are evaluated by officials from the NFL's 32 teams.
Ratliff showed well enough at the East-West Shrine Game to be noticed by a few NFL teams in attendance but not well enough to be added to the combine roster.
His performance at Auburn's Pro Day, which featured running backs Ronnie Brown and Cadillac Williams, cornerback Carlos Rogers and quarterback Jason Campbell, was good enough to pique the interest of at least one team. That's all it took.
The Cowboys drafted Ratliff in the seventh round. Now he's viewed as one of the top nose tackles in the league.
"To this day, I still don't know why I wasn't invited," Ratliff said about the combine. "I always wondered that. People may have been afraid because I went to Auburn as a tight end, then was moved to defensive end, then to nose tackle. I guess they weren't sure because I only spent a year at each position.
"The only thing I know is not getting invited made me that more determined and a lot hungrier. I don't regret anything that happened. It just gave me unbelievable drive. It made me want to go harder. Thinking about it now, I'm getting that feeling all over again. You get looked over, and nobody expects you to make it. When you do, you can tell everybody that you didn't have anything handed to you, but that you've earned it."
A committee of selectors chooses which players are invited to combine. None of the selectors has ties to any particular conference, university, program or player representation agency, although coaches and agents routinely lobby for players to be invited. Typically, the number of those players invited comes out to around 325.
Roughly one-third of the players who are invited to the combine aren't drafted. A couple dozen players who aren't invited are drafted each year. From 1999 to 2007, nearly 190 players who weren't invited to the combine were drafted. Dozens more non-invitees latched on to teams as free agents.
The main reasons players don't make the combine are injuries, having non-NFL-type measurables, a lack of production and playing against lesser competition.
From NFLdraftscout.com:
http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=16970&draftyear=2009&genpos=DT
Hire An Auburn Fan! Post on "War Eagle Jobs"
How can you hire the best & brightest employees? Hire an Auburn fan or alumni of course. Introducing a brand new board targeted to employers who seek quality individuals who are smart, creative, reliable & productive workers. Plus Auburn sports fans are just fun to be around!
To post or search jobs on this brand new kind of Jobs Board, click here
Dansby, Jacobs, Bironas: AU Players Popular In Game Of Tag
2009 NFL Players with Franchise Tags - Associated Content: "For those unfamiliar with the NFL's franchise tag, it is a part of free agency in the NFL. Each year, each team is given the option to use one franchise tag. By using the tag on a player, they get the average salary of the top 5 players at their position or a 20% increase in their current salary, whichever is greater. There are two forms of the franchise tag. The 'Exclusive' tag means that the player may not talk with other teams and gives him the salary of the top 5 players at his position in the upcoming season. The 'Non-Exclusive' tag gives the player the salary of the top 5 players from last season and allows the player to entertain offers from other teams, with the tagging team given the right to match the offer or two first round draft choices if they choose not to match."
Brandon Jacobs: A Giant with a 4 Year 25M Deal
Giants, Jacobs reach accord on four-year deal - Sporting News- nbcsports.msnbc.com: "New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs is off the free-agent watch, signing a four-year, $25 million deal. It includes $13 million guaranteed and $15 million over the deal's first two seasons.
'I was confident all along that this was going to get done I didn't panic one bit,' Jacobs said in a statement released by the team. 'I know the reason we did it the way we did; I knew I was going to be here. I was super-confident and I am here. I'm happy about it.
'This team is full of young talent,' he said. 'We brought some great talent in here the last two years and those guys are still learning and getting better. Our offensive line is great and will continue to be great. There are a lot of young guys on our team that are still playing great, great football. I'm looking for big things out of our football team next year.'
Jacobs is the Giants' featured back and recently receiver the team's franchise tag.
The signing came less than two days before the start of the NFL free agency period.
'Both parties are happy to get a long-term deal done,' Giants GM Jerry Reese said. 'Now Brandon can totally concentrate on the offseason program and get himself ready to go this fall.'
The deal allows the Giants cap room, the Star-Ledger reports. 'Signing Jacobs now allows them to lower his cap number for this upcoming season from $6.621 million and create more space to use in free agency and perhaps on a new deal for quarterback Eli Manning,' according to the story by Mike Garafolo. 'It's unclear what Jacobs' new 2009 cap number is, but it's certainly lower than the previous figure.'
Jacobs turns 27 in July. A bruiser at 6-4, 264 pounds, he was the Giants' featured back the past two seasons and had a team-best 15 touchdowns la"
'I was confident all along that this was going to get done I didn't panic one bit,' Jacobs said in a statement released by the team. 'I know the reason we did it the way we did; I knew I was going to be here. I was super-confident and I am here. I'm happy about it.
'This team is full of young talent,' he said. 'We brought some great talent in here the last two years and those guys are still learning and getting better. Our offensive line is great and will continue to be great. There are a lot of young guys on our team that are still playing great, great football. I'm looking for big things out of our football team next year.'
Jacobs is the Giants' featured back and recently receiver the team's franchise tag.
The signing came less than two days before the start of the NFL free agency period.
'Both parties are happy to get a long-term deal done,' Giants GM Jerry Reese said. 'Now Brandon can totally concentrate on the offseason program and get himself ready to go this fall.'
The deal allows the Giants cap room, the Star-Ledger reports. 'Signing Jacobs now allows them to lower his cap number for this upcoming season from $6.621 million and create more space to use in free agency and perhaps on a new deal for quarterback Eli Manning,' according to the story by Mike Garafolo. 'It's unclear what Jacobs' new 2009 cap number is, but it's certainly lower than the previous figure.'
Jacobs turns 27 in July. A bruiser at 6-4, 264 pounds, he was the Giants' featured back the past two seasons and had a team-best 15 touchdowns la"
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Sen'Derrick Marks: Slight Combine Slip Balanced By Career Productivity
Scout.com: 2009 NFL Draft/Post-Combine - Def. Tackles: "7. Sen’Derrick Marks, Auburn 6-2, 306
Pre-Combine Position Rank: 4
Post-Combine Skinny: While he bulked up a bit to be more of a true tackle than a big end, he struggled to look smooth. He didn't lift, but he ran a nice 5.03 in the 40. He didn't do enough to up his stock.
Positives: Quick enough to be an end, tough enough to play tackle … Ultra-productive. Was the focus of everyone’s blocking scheme … Can really, really move.
Negatives: Might not have a true position. Needs to figure out exactly what he is … Short. Doesn’t have much room to get any bigger"
Pre-Combine Position Rank: 4
Post-Combine Skinny: While he bulked up a bit to be more of a true tackle than a big end, he struggled to look smooth. He didn't lift, but he ran a nice 5.03 in the 40. He didn't do enough to up his stock.
Positives: Quick enough to be an end, tough enough to play tackle … Ultra-productive. Was the focus of everyone’s blocking scheme … Can really, really move.
Negatives: Might not have a true position. Needs to figure out exactly what he is … Short. Doesn’t have much room to get any bigger"
Tyronne Green: CFN's 4th Best Post-Combine OG
Scout.com: 2009 NFL Draft/Post-Combine - Guards: "4. Tyronne Green, Auburn 6-2, 309
Pre-Combine Position Rank: 4
Post-Combine Skinny: While he moved well, he quietly slipped through the Combine without showing anything major, for good and bad.
Positives: Athletic … Tough. A former defensive tackle … Produced against top-shelf SEC tackles.
Negatives: Still needs to"
Pre-Combine Position Rank: 4
Post-Combine Skinny: While he moved well, he quietly slipped through the Combine without showing anything major, for good and bad.
Positives: Athletic … Tough. A former defensive tackle … Produced against top-shelf SEC tackles.
Negatives: Still needs to"
Jerraud Powers: Great Combine Performance But Criticized For Not Staying For Sr. Year
Scout.com: 2009 NFL Draft/Post-Combine - Cornerbacks: "21. Jerraud Powers, Auburn 5-9, 188
Pre-Combine Position Rank: 23
Post-Combine Skinny: He had a nice day. Criticized for coming out early when he could've upped his stock with a good senior year, he came up with a nice 4.47 in the 40 and was one of the quickest players in the Combine in the shuttle.
Positives: Looks the part even with his size. Strong … Willing tackler who’s great at coming up with the big stop … Good athlete who showed big-time upside early in his career.
Negatives: Needs work to be a player and not just a great athlete … Didn’t show quite what he could do last year because"
Pre-Combine Position Rank: 23
Post-Combine Skinny: He had a nice day. Criticized for coming out early when he could've upped his stock with a good senior year, he came up with a nice 4.47 in the 40 and was one of the quickest players in the Combine in the shuttle.
Positives: Looks the part even with his size. Strong … Willing tackler who’s great at coming up with the big stop … Good athlete who showed big-time upside early in his career.
Negatives: Needs work to be a player and not just a great athlete … Didn’t show quite what he could do last year because"
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Tracy Rocker: NFL Career Overview
Tracy Rocker - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: "Rocker was selected in the 3rd round of the 1989 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins and was selected to the NFL All-Rookie team in 1990. However, after playing only two seasons in the NFL with the Redskins, he concluded his playing career with a one-year stint with the Orlando Thunder in the World Football League."
Jackie Burkett: AU NFL Legend Revisited
Jackie Burkett - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: "Walter Jackson Burkett (born December 16, 1936 in Thorsby, Alabama) is a former American football center in the National Football League for the Baltimore Colts, New Orleans Saints, and the Dallas Cowboys. He played college football at Auburn University and was drafted in the first round (12th overall) of the 1959 NFL Draft."
Jonathan Wilhite: Rookie Year Stats w/Patriots
Commitment to defense - NESN.com: "The Pats may be relying even more on young cornerbacks in 2009. Terrence Wheatley played in just six games in his rookie season before breaking his wrist while defending a pass against the Colts, and Jonathan Wilhite (28 tackles, one interception) also should see an increase in playing time in his second season.
At this point, the Patriots know what they are getting from corner Ellis Hobbs. Last year, in his fourth season in New England, Hobbs recorded 47 tackles (career avg.: 49 1/2) while making three interceptions. But the Patriots face a decision: keep Hobbs as the team’s No. 1 corner, find someone via free agency (such as the highly sought-after Nnamdi Asomugha) or draft a prospect out of college."
At this point, the Patriots know what they are getting from corner Ellis Hobbs. Last year, in his fourth season in New England, Hobbs recorded 47 tackles (career avg.: 49 1/2) while making three interceptions. But the Patriots face a decision: keep Hobbs as the team’s No. 1 corner, find someone via free agency (such as the highly sought-after Nnamdi Asomugha) or draft a prospect out of college."
Carnell Williams: Knee Rehab Ahead of Schedule
What Will The Bucs Do Next? - News- msnbc.com: "They can't count on Cadillac Williams, even though the early word out of One Buc is that Caddy's recovery from a second patellar knee tendon injury is ahead of schedule."
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Brandon Jacobs: #1 Available Free Agent RB (SN)
SportingNews.com - Your expert source for NFL Football stats, scores, standings, blogs and fantasy news from NFL Football columnists: "RealScouts, Sporting News' team of former NFL scouts, analyzes the top 10 running backs scheduled to be available when the free-agency period opens Friday:
1. Brandon Jacobs, Giants: Slapped with the franchise tag, Jacobs' size and physical running style help set up everything the Giants try to do on offense. His absence late in the season exposed some of the team's other weaknesses. He is critical to the Giants' success, and he will now get paid like it."
1. Brandon Jacobs, Giants: Slapped with the franchise tag, Jacobs' size and physical running style help set up everything the Giants try to do on offense. His absence late in the season exposed some of the team's other weaknesses. He is critical to the Giants' success, and he will now get paid like it."
Brandon Cox: Flashback on AU's Toughest-Ever QB
Brandon Cox is tougher than meets the eye - ESPN The Magazine: "Don't cringe for Brandon Cox. He has chosen this fate. He knows the cost of one more tick of the clock, but you don't waste opportunities like this, nine yards from paydirt. So he slides out of the pocket, eyes focused downfield, and sidesteps an onslaught. At the last second, he lets the ball fly, then is promptly crumpled under a 600-pound train. Two LSU defensive tackles hammer him, one high, one low. Cox can't get to his feet. Pressing his head against the ground, he pushes himself to his knees, Still wincing, he peels off his helmet, then pounds it over and over into the turf before rolling onto his back. His boyish face is twisted in rage. With 4:28 left in the half, in the most important game of his collegiate career, Cox lies prone at the left hashmark of a hushed Jordan-Hare Stadium. This is it for me. The thought is heartbreaking, after all he has overcome to get here. On the Auburn sideline, his teammates join hands. Come on, Brandon, get up. They pray because they need him more than ever, locked in a scoreless war that could kill a chance at the national title just three weeks into the season. And they pray because they know what he has been through. Huddled on the field, the starting line echoes the plea. Please, God, let him be okay. Ten rows behind the bench, Cox's weeping mother fights the urge to run onto the field. It's not worth it. I wish he didn't even play football."
Marcus Washington: Redskins Career Stats
Marcus Washington, Washington Redskins, NFL - CBSSports.com Football: "Redskins release Washington: The Washington Redskins announced Friday that they have released LB Marcus Washington. The nine-year NFL veteran spent the last five seasons in Washington, playing in 68 games, including 66 starts, and totaling 466 tackles, 19.5 sacks, one interception, 10 forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries.
(Updated 02/20/2009)."
(Updated 02/20/2009)."
Marcus Washington: Redskins Release Injured Pro Bowler To Free Cap Space
www.dcexaminer.com >> Sports: "Marcus Washington understood the situation: high cap number; too many injuries; a change in his role. So he understood what came next: his release.
That doesn’t mean it didn’t sting a bit when the Redskins released their five-year linebacker Friday, saving $4 million against the salary cap.
“It wasn’t unexpected, but it was tough,” he said Monday in his first public comments since the release. “It’s like I was a Redskin from the word ‘Go.’ The toughest part is leaving the guys, the camaraderie. With everything we’ve been through the last few years, we have a closer bond than a lot of other organizations.”
Washington, who previously played four years with Indianapolis, was visiting his family in Alabama this past weekend and eventually turned off his phone because, as he said, “it was going crazy.” He said he had not yet talked with any other teams.
He also knows he must stay healthy. Washington missed a combined 12 games the past three years with various ailments.
“I had nothing that was a major injury but something you can’t play on, like a hamstring or high ankle sprain,” he said. “That was the most frustrating part of it.”
“I know if I’m healthy, I will make some plays. ... I’m trying to stay away from those nagging little injuries. Those are the worst.”"
That doesn’t mean it didn’t sting a bit when the Redskins released their five-year linebacker Friday, saving $4 million against the salary cap.
“It wasn’t unexpected, but it was tough,” he said Monday in his first public comments since the release. “It’s like I was a Redskin from the word ‘Go.’ The toughest part is leaving the guys, the camaraderie. With everything we’ve been through the last few years, we have a closer bond than a lot of other organizations.”
Washington, who previously played four years with Indianapolis, was visiting his family in Alabama this past weekend and eventually turned off his phone because, as he said, “it was going crazy.” He said he had not yet talked with any other teams.
He also knows he must stay healthy. Washington missed a combined 12 games the past three years with various ailments.
“I had nothing that was a major injury but something you can’t play on, like a hamstring or high ankle sprain,” he said. “That was the most frustrating part of it.”
“I know if I’m healthy, I will make some plays. ... I’m trying to stay away from those nagging little injuries. Those are the worst.”"
Brad Lester: No Combine But Could Be A Late Rounder
The Rollercoaster Report: Who's Missing Out on the Scouting Combine - NFL FanHouse: "Brad Lester, RB, Auburn: There was some initial thought that Auburn's Brad Lester-Ben Tate combo could be reminiscent of Cadillac Williams-Ronnie Brown. Uh, not even close. Lester had a very disappointing senior season (and, really, college career), then suffered a late knee injury. He needs to do a lot to get back into sixth- or seventh-round consideration."
Monday, February 23, 2009
Sen'Derrick Marks: On the Falcon's draft radar
Scout.com: Falcons Focused on the Draft: "Dimitroff likes where they Falcons are positioned in the draft (the Falcons have the 24th pick in the 1st round), and two defensive tackles expected to go in the first two rounds whom the Falcons may be targeting are Mississippi’s Peria Jerry and Auburn’s Sen’Derrick Marks. Atlanta has also met with Corvey Irvin, a defensive"
Jerraud Powers: Combine Player Profile
NFL Events: Combine Player Profiles - Jerraud Powers: "Analysis
Positives: Short, but has a legitimate NFL build. ... At least adequate deep speed. ... Flashes an aggressive initial hand punch at the line of scrimmage. ... Good hip swivel to turn and run with receivers. ... Good agility and quickness out of his breaks to close on the ball. ... Peeks back at the quarterback and is willing to gamble. ... Can adjust his body in space to make the athletic interception. ... Rides receivers throughout the route and isn't intimidated by bigger receivers. ... Reliable open-field tackler who flashes some pop. ... Good agility to avoid blocks.
Negatives: Might be too short to handle working on the outside. ... Good open-field tackler who flashes some pop, but his physicality hasn't translated into forced fumbles. ... Can be too aggressive. ... Has a tendency to bite on the fake and lacks the elite burst to recover when beaten initially. ... Fought a nagging hamstring pull as a junior."
Positives: Short, but has a legitimate NFL build. ... At least adequate deep speed. ... Flashes an aggressive initial hand punch at the line of scrimmage. ... Good hip swivel to turn and run with receivers. ... Good agility and quickness out of his breaks to close on the ball. ... Peeks back at the quarterback and is willing to gamble. ... Can adjust his body in space to make the athletic interception. ... Rides receivers throughout the route and isn't intimidated by bigger receivers. ... Reliable open-field tackler who flashes some pop. ... Good agility to avoid blocks.
Negatives: Might be too short to handle working on the outside. ... Good open-field tackler who flashes some pop, but his physicality hasn't translated into forced fumbles. ... Can be too aggressive. ... Has a tendency to bite on the fake and lacks the elite burst to recover when beaten initially. ... Fought a nagging hamstring pull as a junior."
Sen'Derrick Marks: Combine Player Profile
NFL Events: Combine Player Profiles - Sen'Derrick Marks: "Analysis
Positives: Short, squatty build with room for additional mass in his upper body and a thick lower body. ... Good leg drive to anchor and use of leverage to hold up against the run. ... Flashes good initial quickness off the snap to put the blocker in a defensive position. ... Quick, strong hands to disengage from defenders. ... Good arm extension to keep blockers' hands off his frame. ... Good lateral quickness and balance to provide an interior pass rush. ... Good short-area quickness to close on the ballcarrier. ... Flashes some explosiveness as a hitter. ... Willing in pursuit laterally and downfield.
Negatives: Not yet the sum of his parts as a player. ... Lacks the bulk and strength to handle anchoring against the double-team. ... Plays so low that he loses track of the ball. ... Seems to tire easily, despite being used as part of a rotation at Auburn. ... Struggled with ankle injuries as a junior. ... Elected to come out early despite a disappointing junior season.
Copyright NFLDraftScout.com, distributed by The Sports Xchange."
Positives: Short, squatty build with room for additional mass in his upper body and a thick lower body. ... Good leg drive to anchor and use of leverage to hold up against the run. ... Flashes good initial quickness off the snap to put the blocker in a defensive position. ... Quick, strong hands to disengage from defenders. ... Good arm extension to keep blockers' hands off his frame. ... Good lateral quickness and balance to provide an interior pass rush. ... Good short-area quickness to close on the ballcarrier. ... Flashes some explosiveness as a hitter. ... Willing in pursuit laterally and downfield.
Negatives: Not yet the sum of his parts as a player. ... Lacks the bulk and strength to handle anchoring against the double-team. ... Plays so low that he loses track of the ball. ... Seems to tire easily, despite being used as part of a rotation at Auburn. ... Struggled with ankle injuries as a junior. ... Elected to come out early despite a disappointing junior season.
Copyright NFLDraftScout.com, distributed by The Sports Xchange."
Tyronne Green: Combine Player Profile
NFL Events: Combine Player Profiles - Tyronne Green: "Analysis
Positives: Good quickness off the snap. ... Wide set and has good lateral agility and balance to compete with athletic defensive tackles in pass protection. ... Quick first step to pop the defensive tackle and release to the second level for combo blocks and on pulling plays. ... Good vision to locate the secondary block and is athletic enough to hit the moving target.
Negatives: Raw. ... Was getting by on his athleticism at the college level. ... Marginal upper-body strength and hand placement. ... Struggles to sustain blocks. ... A bit high in pass protection and can be bull-rushed into the pocket.
Copyright NFLDraftScout.com, distributed by The Sports Xchange."
Positives: Good quickness off the snap. ... Wide set and has good lateral agility and balance to compete with athletic defensive tackles in pass protection. ... Quick first step to pop the defensive tackle and release to the second level for combo blocks and on pulling plays. ... Good vision to locate the secondary block and is athletic enough to hit the moving target.
Negatives: Raw. ... Was getting by on his athleticism at the college level. ... Marginal upper-body strength and hand placement. ... Struggles to sustain blocks. ... A bit high in pass protection and can be bull-rushed into the pocket.
Copyright NFLDraftScout.com, distributed by The Sports Xchange."
Tryronne Green: Was HOT at Senior Bowl
Scout.com: Who's Hot & Not - 2009 Senior Bowl Week: "Former Auburn DT Tyronne Green
The only Auburn player in L.A. (lower Alabama), Green is a former defensive lineman that switched to the O-line while with the Tigers. Those skills translated well to the other side of the ball. He has good hands and plays with the toughness of a former D-lineman, but he has less than ideal size (6-1 5/8, 305)."
The only Auburn player in L.A. (lower Alabama), Green is a former defensive lineman that switched to the O-line while with the Tigers. Those skills translated well to the other side of the ball. He has good hands and plays with the toughness of a former D-lineman, but he has less than ideal size (6-1 5/8, 305)."
Tryronne Green: Combine Results -Guards (Scout)
Scout.com: 2009 Combine Results - Guards and Centers: "GuardsHeightWeightArmHand40-YardReps
Roger AllenMiss. Western6-332634 3/410DNPDNP
Travis BrightBYU6-431634105.2934
Gerald CadoganPenn State6-5309359 1/25.1226
Trevor CanfieldCincinnati6-5307329 1/45.3229
C.J. DavisPittsburgh6-230832 3/49 1/25.5621
Paul FanaikaArizona State6-53273510 7/8DNP15
Ray FeingaBYU6-433733 1/210DNP30
Ramon FosterTennessee6-532834 1/2105.5720
Tyronne GreenAuburn6-230933 3/410 1/45.3922
Greg IsdanerWest Virginia6-432532 1/29 3/45.4524
Herman JohnsonLSU6-736436 1/211 3/85.5321
Andy KempWisconsin6-531334 1/810 1/25.4223
Andy LevitreOregon State6-430532 1/29 1/25.2623
Maurice MillerOle Miss6-332734 1/410 1/25.4621
Seth OlsenIowa6-530633 1/89 1/25.2423
Anthony ParkerTennessee6-229734 1/810DNP24
Duke RobinsonOklahoma6-532934 3/410 5/85.27DNP
Matt SlausonNebraska6-532933 1/810 1/2DNPDNP
Kraig UrbikWisconsin6-532833 3/410 1/45.4129
Louis VasquezTexas Tech6-533334 3/410 3/8DNP39
Brandon WalkerOklahoma6-330634 1/210 1/45.1726"
Roger AllenMiss. Western6-332634 3/410DNPDNP
Travis BrightBYU6-431634105.2934
Gerald CadoganPenn State6-5309359 1/25.1226
Trevor CanfieldCincinnati6-5307329 1/45.3229
C.J. DavisPittsburgh6-230832 3/49 1/25.5621
Paul FanaikaArizona State6-53273510 7/8DNP15
Ray FeingaBYU6-433733 1/210DNP30
Ramon FosterTennessee6-532834 1/2105.5720
Tyronne GreenAuburn6-230933 3/410 1/45.3922
Greg IsdanerWest Virginia6-432532 1/29 3/45.4524
Herman JohnsonLSU6-736436 1/211 3/85.5321
Andy KempWisconsin6-531334 1/810 1/25.4223
Andy LevitreOregon State6-430532 1/29 1/25.2623
Maurice MillerOle Miss6-332734 1/410 1/25.4621
Seth OlsenIowa6-530633 1/89 1/25.2423
Anthony ParkerTennessee6-229734 1/810DNP24
Duke RobinsonOklahoma6-532934 3/410 5/85.27DNP
Matt SlausonNebraska6-532933 1/810 1/2DNPDNP
Kraig UrbikWisconsin6-532833 3/410 1/45.4129
Louis VasquezTexas Tech6-533334 3/410 3/8DNP39
Brandon WalkerOklahoma6-330634 1/210 1/45.1726"
Jason Campbell: Zorn Q&A About Contract Talks
Scout.com: Q & A: Coach Zorn: "On the possibility of a contract extension for quarterback Jason Campbell:
“I don’t know how that is going to get done quite yet. I haven’t really thought about his contract and how it has to do with me because those things are worked out as the player goes along, with his own agent and our administration. I know that I am getting ready to coach him hard just like I did last year. As far as the years or an extension, I don’t know how that is going to play out yet.”
On whether quarterback Jason Campbell will be able to keep contract talks from affecting his play:
“I hope so. I think it will always be in the back of his mind when he is on that subject, but I think he can do that. I think he is a pretty quality guy. I don’t think he will stay away because he wants to negotiate a contract"
“I don’t know how that is going to get done quite yet. I haven’t really thought about his contract and how it has to do with me because those things are worked out as the player goes along, with his own agent and our administration. I know that I am getting ready to coach him hard just like I did last year. As far as the years or an extension, I don’t know how that is going to play out yet.”
On whether quarterback Jason Campbell will be able to keep contract talks from affecting his play:
“I hope so. I think it will always be in the back of his mind when he is on that subject, but I think he can do that. I think he is a pretty quality guy. I don’t think he will stay away because he wants to negotiate a contract"
Quentin Groves: Cosell Compares Groves' & Harvey's 2008 Play
Scout.com: Cosell Tackles Jaguars: "What about second-round pick Quentin Groves?
“They drafted Quentin Groves with their second pick in the draft. I think he’s got a little more juice to him than Harvey does as a pass rusher, but I think he’s got a long way to go. I didn’t quite see that same type of burst that you’d like to see from elite pass rushers. So they drafted two"
“They drafted Quentin Groves with their second pick in the draft. I think he’s got a little more juice to him than Harvey does as a pass rusher, but I think he’s got a long way to go. I didn’t quite see that same type of burst that you’d like to see from elite pass rushers. So they drafted two"
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Marquies Gunn: Arrested For Selling Crack In Tallapoosa County
WTVM.com and WTVM News Leader 9, Columbus, GA | Ex-Auburn player Gunn arrested on drug charges: "ALEXANDER CITY, Ala. (AP) - Former Auburn player Marquies Gunn has been arrested on drug charges.
Authorities said Gunn was charged with three counts of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance after his arrest Wednesday. Jay Turner of the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force said Gunn was among several people arrested Wednesday following an investigation.
Gunn allegedly sold crack cocaine to an informant three times during a 3- to 6-month period in transactions monitored by authorities.
He was released from Tallapoosa County Jail on bond Thursday.
The defensive end spent time on the practice squads for several NFL teams in 2007 and 2008.
Gunn did not have a listed telephone number in Alexander City. Calls to his parents' house went unanswered Friday."
Authorities said Gunn was charged with three counts of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance after his arrest Wednesday. Jay Turner of the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force said Gunn was among several people arrested Wednesday following an investigation.
Gunn allegedly sold crack cocaine to an informant three times during a 3- to 6-month period in transactions monitored by authorities.
He was released from Tallapoosa County Jail on bond Thursday.
The defensive end spent time on the practice squads for several NFL teams in 2007 and 2008.
Gunn did not have a listed telephone number in Alexander City. Calls to his parents' house went unanswered Friday."
2009 Draft: No AU Combine Bragging Rights
Scout.com: Breaking Down The NFL Combine: "Bragging Rights (the programs)
If you’re looking for tangible proof that USC has more talent than any school in the country, tune in to the NFL Network. A dozen Trojans will be on display, two more than any other program. LSU, Oklahoma, Georgia, Ohio State, and Penn State followed Troy, a testament to their outstanding recruiting year after year.
Clemson and Maryland led the ACC, yet Virginia Tech, with only Victor Harris and Orion Martin in Indianapolis, won the league championship. Miami has just a single representative, Bruce Johnson, further evidence of how far it’s fallen. Ditto UCLA with Kahlil Bell and Notre Dame with David Bruton, who might feel a little lonely at the hotel. In fact, Division II Abilene Christian is sending more players to the Combine than the ‘Canes, Bruins, or Irish.
The top non-BCS school isn’t Utah, BYU, TCU, or Boise State. Care to guess? How about San Jose State, which has four players, Jarron Gilbert, Christopher Owens, Coye Francies, and David Richmond, looking to impress the scouts.
Florida must need a fleet of air buses to transport the Gators to the RCA Dome, right? Think again. Just four members of the defending champs are participating. In other words, most of last year’s 13-1 squad is still in Gainesville. Uh-oh.
USC … 12
LSU …10
Oklahoma … 8
Georgia … 8
Ohio State … 8
Penn State … 8
Wisconsin … 7
Oregon … 7
Ole Miss … 6
South Carolina … 6
Tennessee … 6
Cal … 6
Clemson … 6
Maryland … 6
Missouri … 6
Nebraska … 6
Texas … 6"
If you’re looking for tangible proof that USC has more talent than any school in the country, tune in to the NFL Network. A dozen Trojans will be on display, two more than any other program. LSU, Oklahoma, Georgia, Ohio State, and Penn State followed Troy, a testament to their outstanding recruiting year after year.
Clemson and Maryland led the ACC, yet Virginia Tech, with only Victor Harris and Orion Martin in Indianapolis, won the league championship. Miami has just a single representative, Bruce Johnson, further evidence of how far it’s fallen. Ditto UCLA with Kahlil Bell and Notre Dame with David Bruton, who might feel a little lonely at the hotel. In fact, Division II Abilene Christian is sending more players to the Combine than the ‘Canes, Bruins, or Irish.
The top non-BCS school isn’t Utah, BYU, TCU, or Boise State. Care to guess? How about San Jose State, which has four players, Jarron Gilbert, Christopher Owens, Coye Francies, and David Richmond, looking to impress the scouts.
Florida must need a fleet of air buses to transport the Gators to the RCA Dome, right? Think again. Just four members of the defending champs are participating. In other words, most of last year’s 13-1 squad is still in Gainesville. Uh-oh.
USC … 12
LSU …10
Oklahoma … 8
Georgia … 8
Ohio State … 8
Penn State … 8
Wisconsin … 7
Oregon … 7
Ole Miss … 6
South Carolina … 6
Tennessee … 6
Cal … 6
Clemson … 6
Maryland … 6
Missouri … 6
Nebraska … 6
Texas … 6"
Friday, February 20, 2009
Sen'Derrick Marks: CFN's 4th Best DT (Pre-Combine)
Scout.com: NEW 2009 NFL Draft/Combine - Def. Tackles: "4. Sen’Derrick Marks, Auburn 6-1, 290
Positives: Quick enough to be an end, tough enough to play tackle … Ultra-productive. Was the focus of everyone’s blocking scheme … Can really, really move.
Negatives: Might not have a true position. Needs to figure out exactly what he is … Short. Doesn’t have much room to get any bigger"
Positives: Quick enough to be an end, tough enough to play tackle … Ultra-productive. Was the focus of everyone’s blocking scheme … Can really, really move.
Negatives: Might not have a true position. Needs to figure out exactly what he is … Short. Doesn’t have much room to get any bigger"
Tyronne Green: CFN's 4th Best Offensive Guard (Pre-Combine)
Scout.com: 2009 NFL Draft/Combine - Guards: "4. Tyronne Green, Auburn 6-2, 310
Positives: Athletic … Tough. A former defensive tackle … Produced against top-shelf SEC tackles.
Negatives: Still needs to develop"
Positives: Athletic … Tough. A former defensive tackle … Produced against top-shelf SEC tackles.
Negatives: Still needs to develop"
Rod Hood: Did Rodgers-Cromartie Spark Excellent Play in '08?
Arizona Cardinals Rookie of the Year: DRC | Fanster.com - All Sports. All Phoenix.: "Perhaps the biggest impact Rodgers-Cromartie had was his effect on other corner backs on the team. Roderick Hood and Ralph Brown changed their identity in the post season and played at another level. It could have been the motivation of a rookie out playing them that sparked their game play.Perhaps the biggest impact Rodgers-Cromartie had was his effect on other corner backs on the team. Roderick Hood and Ralph Brown changed their identity in the post season and played at another level. It could have been the motivation of a rookie out playing them that sparked their game play."
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Ben Obomanu: Seahawks Career Capsule Since 2006 Draft
12th Man Rising | A Blog For Seattle Seahawks Fans » Blog Archive » Looking Back: 2006 Draft: "Ben Obomanu: Spent the 2006 season on the practice squad. Made the active roster out of training camp in 2007, and caught 12 balls for 180 yards and a touchdown. Was supposed to compete for additional playing time in 2008, but broke his collarbone in the preseason and was placed on injured reserve."
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Tim Duckworth: Signs contract w/Saints
www.thenewsstar.com | Printer-friendly article page: "The New Orleans Saints have signed four players who were with them in some capacity last season to reserve/futures contracts for the 2009 season.
Signed were veteran fullback Darian Barnes as well as defensive end Josh Savage, guard Tim Duckworth and tight end Kolo Kapanui.
Barnes was on the active roster for four games late in the season, while Savage, Duckworth and Kapanui all finished the season on the team's practice squad."
Signed were veteran fullback Darian Barnes as well as defensive end Josh Savage, guard Tim Duckworth and tight end Kolo Kapanui.
Barnes was on the active roster for four games late in the season, while Savage, Duckworth and Kapanui all finished the season on the team's practice squad."
Monday, February 16, 2009
Prechae Rodriguez: Could he go to the NFL?
Ticats re-sign leading receiver Rodriguez: "“Prechae developed into an exceptional, game-changing receiver last season, and we were impressed with Chris’ big play ability. We look forward to seeing what these two young receivers can do for us this season.”
Rodriguez, in his first year in the CFL, caught 70 passes for 1,099 yards and seven touchdowns. The six-foot-five receiver had 22 more catches than anyone else on the Tiger-Cats and was runner up for CFL's rookie of the year award.
The rookie hooked up with Quinton Porter last October on 12 passes for 198 yards and three touchdowns against Montreal. He also caught 10 passes in a July game against Edmonton.
Rodriguez, who turned 24 on Wednesday, played collegiately at Auburn."
Rodriguez, in his first year in the CFL, caught 70 passes for 1,099 yards and seven touchdowns. The six-foot-five receiver had 22 more catches than anyone else on the Tiger-Cats and was runner up for CFL's rookie of the year award.
The rookie hooked up with Quinton Porter last October on 12 passes for 198 yards and three touchdowns against Montreal. He also caught 10 passes in a July game against Edmonton.
Rodriguez, who turned 24 on Wednesday, played collegiately at Auburn."
Prechae Rodriguez: CFL East Div. Rookie Of The Year!
For some high school players, college football signing day winds up being the apex - St. Petersburg Times: "Or how about the Canadian Football League? Jefferson's Prechae Rodriguez signed with Auburn in 2005 after a year of junior college ball and tore it up north of the border this year. He was the East Division's rookie of the year and signed a contract extension with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Thursday."
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Marcus McNeill: 2009 Is contract year for two time Pro Bowler
Scout.com: Positional Analysis: Offensive Tackle: "LT Marcus McNeill is second in line for a contract extension behind Philip Rivers. McNeill has been a standout since being picked midway through the second round in the 2006 draft, earning Pro Bowl invitations in two of his first three seasons.
The dilemma for the Chargers is that McNeill is coming off his worst season. The two sides nearly agreed to an extension before the season, but then McNeill injured his back and delivered his most inconsistent"
The Chargers finished last season with the lowest ranked rushing attack in the AFC West. The team’s usually dominant left side failed to play up to expectations; LaDainian Tomlinson ran to the left sideline 37 times last year and gained only 101 yards, an average of 2.7 ypc.
McNeill believes injuries were a big part of the problem. He missed the first two games of the season and center Nick Hardwick missed the first three. Even after they returned, it took a while for the linemen to get back in sync.
“It’s all five of us taking care of the line of scrimmage,” McNeill said. “I was out early. Nick was out early. L.J. (Shelton) did a great job of filling in and Jeremy (Newberry) did a great job of filling in, but we also miss that.
The dilemma for the Chargers is that McNeill is coming off his worst season. The two sides nearly agreed to an extension before the season, but then McNeill injured his back and delivered his most inconsistent"
The Chargers finished last season with the lowest ranked rushing attack in the AFC West. The team’s usually dominant left side failed to play up to expectations; LaDainian Tomlinson ran to the left sideline 37 times last year and gained only 101 yards, an average of 2.7 ypc.
McNeill believes injuries were a big part of the problem. He missed the first two games of the season and center Nick Hardwick missed the first three. Even after they returned, it took a while for the linemen to get back in sync.
“It’s all five of us taking care of the line of scrimmage,” McNeill said. “I was out early. Nick was out early. L.J. (Shelton) did a great job of filling in and Jeremy (Newberry) did a great job of filling in, but we also miss that.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Wayne Gandy: Veteran OT free agent option for Atlanta
Offensive planned to add depth | ajc.com: "Another intriguing possibility is to re-sign veteran tackle Wayne Gandy. He wants to return to Falcons after March 1, according to his agent Neil Schwartz.
When asked if thought Gandy could fill Weiner’s role, Dimitroff said, “Of course.”
Gandy was signed on Oct. 29 when the Falcons knew Baker would miss extended time after his surgery. The 14-year veteran started the first five games of the 2007 season before injuring a knee. He started all 16 games for the Falcons in 2006.Another intriguing possibility is to re-sign veteran tackle Wayne Gandy. He wants to return to Falcons after March 1, according to his agent Neil Schwartz.
When asked if thought Gandy could fill Weiner’s role, Dimitroff said, “Of course.”
Gandy was signed on Oct. 29 when the Falcons knew Baker would miss extended time after his surgery. The 14-year veteran started the first five games of the 2007 season before injuring a knee. He started all 16 games for the Falcons in 2006."
When asked if thought Gandy could fill Weiner’s role, Dimitroff said, “Of course.”
Gandy was signed on Oct. 29 when the Falcons knew Baker would miss extended time after his surgery. The 14-year veteran started the first five games of the 2007 season before injuring a knee. He started all 16 games for the Falcons in 2006.Another intriguing possibility is to re-sign veteran tackle Wayne Gandy. He wants to return to Falcons after March 1, according to his agent Neil Schwartz.
When asked if thought Gandy could fill Weiner’s role, Dimitroff said, “Of course.”
Gandy was signed on Oct. 29 when the Falcons knew Baker would miss extended time after his surgery. The 14-year veteran started the first five games of the 2007 season before injuring a knee. He started all 16 games for the Falcons in 2006."
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Karlos Dansby: Looking for 20M+ in free agency
Fantasy Football Breaking News - Rotoworld.com: "Cardinals free agent LB Karlos Dansby is seeking a deal that will pay him 'more than the $20 million or so in guarantees that Calvin Pace received from the Jets a year ago.'
Dansby has never been selected to the Pro Bowl, but that's not to say he hasn't earned it. He's a better, more well-rounded player than Pace and is indispensable to the Cardinals. Feb. 11 - 8:59 am et"
Dansby has never been selected to the Pro Bowl, but that's not to say he hasn't earned it. He's a better, more well-rounded player than Pace and is indispensable to the Cardinals. Feb. 11 - 8:59 am et"
Sen'Derrick Marks: #27 to the Colts?
New Era Scouting » Archive » First Round Mock Draft: "27. Indianapolis Colts – Evander Hood, DT, Missouri
Quickly, name the Colts starting defensive tackles. If you can, feel free to apply for a job with New Era Scouting! The point is, the Colts have been woefully overmatched in the middle of their defensive line over the past few years. Not much has changed in 2008, where Eric Foster and Keyunta Dawson combined for 25 starts and 0 sacks. They weren’t much better against the run either. With Jerry gone just a few picks before, the Colts would be best served to move out of the first round and still put them in position for the draft’s next best tackles. While some mocks will have Auburn’s Sen’Derrick Marks in this spot, we’re just not that high on him. Look for Hood to be the next tackle taken, though at 27, it would be a reach."
Quickly, name the Colts starting defensive tackles. If you can, feel free to apply for a job with New Era Scouting! The point is, the Colts have been woefully overmatched in the middle of their defensive line over the past few years. Not much has changed in 2008, where Eric Foster and Keyunta Dawson combined for 25 starts and 0 sacks. They weren’t much better against the run either. With Jerry gone just a few picks before, the Colts would be best served to move out of the first round and still put them in position for the draft’s next best tackles. While some mocks will have Auburn’s Sen’Derrick Marks in this spot, we’re just not that high on him. Look for Hood to be the next tackle taken, though at 27, it would be a reach."
Where there's a Will, there's a way | Opelika-Auburn News
Where there's a Will, there's a way | Opelika-Auburn News: "Herring spoke before a class of OHS Fellowship of Christian Athletes students on everything from faith to family.
“We all have gifts to offer,” Herring said. “I’m not talking about athletic or academic gifts, but how we each give back spiritually in the way we live our daily lives.”
Herring, 25, said his parents instilled that lesson in him at an early age.
“I was fortunate enough to be raised in a Christian home where morals and values were taught and a solid work ethic was stressed,” said Herring, an Opelika native and former OHS star.
That hard work has translated into success on the field for Herring, who recently wrapped up his second year as a linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks.
While there are some larger life lessons football has taught Herring, it’s some of the smaller ones that tend to stick out in his mind.
“Just because a coach yells at you, it doesn’t mean he doesn’t like you,” joked Herring, as he glanced over at former OHS football coach Spence McCracken.
Herring now lives in Seattle and is part of a Seahawks roster laden with former AU Tigers, including Chris Gray, Kevin Hobbs, Ben Obomanu and Courtney Taylor.
McCracken described Herring’s visit to the school as “awesome.”"
“We all have gifts to offer,” Herring said. “I’m not talking about athletic or academic gifts, but how we each give back spiritually in the way we live our daily lives.”
Herring, 25, said his parents instilled that lesson in him at an early age.
“I was fortunate enough to be raised in a Christian home where morals and values were taught and a solid work ethic was stressed,” said Herring, an Opelika native and former OHS star.
That hard work has translated into success on the field for Herring, who recently wrapped up his second year as a linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks.
While there are some larger life lessons football has taught Herring, it’s some of the smaller ones that tend to stick out in his mind.
“Just because a coach yells at you, it doesn’t mean he doesn’t like you,” joked Herring, as he glanced over at former OHS football coach Spence McCracken.
Herring now lives in Seattle and is part of a Seahawks roster laden with former AU Tigers, including Chris Gray, Kevin Hobbs, Ben Obomanu and Courtney Taylor.
McCracken described Herring’s visit to the school as “awesome.”"
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Rod Hood: Super Bowl Bound w/Arizona (2nd SB in 6 yrs)
Former AU player Rod Hood found Arizona a team with plenty of talent and a good fit, despite being advised against going there - al.com: "Hood, who originally signed with the Eagles as an undrafted free agent in 2003, will start at left cornerback when Arizona meets Pittsburgh in Super Bowl XLIII, the second Super Bowl in his six NFL seasons.
Hood has two interceptions this season, one in a 33-13 victory over Carolina in a second-round NFC playoff game on Jan. 10, after making five last year.
He returned two of those 2007 interceptions for touchdowns, on 68- and 71-yard runs, and has not lost the knack for the big play this season. He returned a blocked punt 68 yards for a touchdown against Minnesota on Dec. 14."
Hood has two interceptions this season, one in a 33-13 victory over Carolina in a second-round NFC playoff game on Jan. 10, after making five last year.
He returned two of those 2007 interceptions for touchdowns, on 68- and 71-yard runs, and has not lost the knack for the big play this season. He returned a blocked punt 68 yards for a touchdown against Minnesota on Dec. 14."
Friday, January 23, 2009
Tyronne Green: Having a good week at Sr. Bowl practices
Auburn's Tyronne Green tries to turn heads at Senior Bowl workouts - Page 2 - al.com: "Jacksonville Jaguars coaches working with the South team have been complimentary of his effort, noting improvements each day.
Off the field, he has excelled with mental tests and background checks, according to scouts.
'I give a lot of credit to Coach (Tommy) Tuberville. He's a great people person. I truly developed into a man. I'll never regret going to Auburn and playing for him. Things I learned will stay with me the rest of my life.'"
Off the field, he has excelled with mental tests and background checks, according to scouts.
'I give a lot of credit to Coach (Tommy) Tuberville. He's a great people person. I truly developed into a man. I'll never regret going to Auburn and playing for him. Things I learned will stay with me the rest of my life.'"
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Super Bowl XLIII: Dansby & Hood vs. Simmons
The Auburn University Official Athletic Site - Football: "Auburn has had at least one player represented in the Super Bowl in 25 of the 43 Super Bowls, with this marking the second consecutive year that three former Tigers were members of Super Bowl participants. Auburn has had at least one player represented in the Super Bowl in 25 of the 43 Super Bowls, with this marking the second consecutive year that three former Tigers were members of Super Bowl participants. Auburn has had at least one player represented in the Super Bowl in 25 of the 43 Super Bowls, with this marking the second consecutive year that three former Tigers were members of Super Bowl participants."
Tyrone Green: Possible late round/free agent pick
al.com: Sports: "Green is the only Auburn player at this year's Senior Bowl. He's the only Auburn senior to be considered an NFL prospect, and he's likely a late-round pick or even a free-agent signee. That's another reason, perhaps, to explain the Tigers' dismal season.
Said one high-ranking NFL man: 'I didn't even go to Auburn this year. That's the first time I haven't gone there to look at anybody in 12 years. My scouts always have me going to Auburn, but not this time.'"
Said one high-ranking NFL man: 'I didn't even go to Auburn this year. That's the first time I haven't gone there to look at anybody in 12 years. My scouts always have me going to Auburn, but not this time.'"
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Sen'Derrick Marks: Could Boncos Take at #12?
Broncos Inbox -- Jan. 21 : Denver Broncos 24/7 : Rocky Mountain News: "But, in general, this is not at least in the preliminary stage considered to be that strong a draft in terms of defense with the strength being at linebacker and things a little spotty at the other positions. Again it's early and year after year people in the league always seem to get less cynical about things once the combine and the workouts come to pass.
It was interesting that among the early entries there were only two defensive tackles - Sen'Derrick Marks from Auburn and Ricky Jean-Francois from LSU. Teams that play the 3-4 will look at Marks (a 300-pounder at 6-foot-2), but the 12th pick would be high for him."
It was interesting that among the early entries there were only two defensive tackles - Sen'Derrick Marks from Auburn and Ricky Jean-Francois from LSU. Teams that play the 3-4 will look at Marks (a 300-pounder at 6-foot-2), but the 12th pick would be high for him."
Bo Jackson: What he's up to these days
Bo Jackson is more gourmet than galloper these days -- baltimoresun.com: "Auburn's all-time rushing leader when he left college, Jackson always joined the Raiders after the baseball season but still averaged 5.4 yards a carry and scored 18 touchdowns running and receiving in 38 regular-season NFL games. In 1989, the two-time Alabama state high school decathlon champion ran for 950 yards in 11 games for the Raiders. The next year, he was named to the Pro Bowl."
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Rod Hood: Makes key defensive play over Eagles
Defense seals the deal for Cards: "After McNabb moved the Eagles from their 20 to the Arizona 47 with 2:09 left, the Cardinals turned up the pressure on McNabb, who threw four consecutive incompletions. A third-down pass was behind Hank Baskett. On fourth down, Rod Hood was all over Kevin Curtis, keeping him from making a play."
Karlos Dansby: AU Gameday Crowd Ausome
Boldin’s early exit miffs Cards : Bills & NFL : The Buffalo News: "It has been a nightmarish existence for some of the current players who remember those woebegone days of playing in 107-degree heat in a half-empty Sun Devil Stadium at Arizona State University. They recall seeing more fans of the opponent than their own. Now they’re playing in front of a packed house of rabid followers.
“Coming from Auburn where we played in front of 80,000 every Saturday and coming here where there were 10,000-20,000 in the stands was tough,” linebacker Karlos Dansby. “Those were some dark days, but we finally reached the light at the end of the tunnel.”"
“Coming from Auburn where we played in front of 80,000 every Saturday and coming here where there were 10,000-20,000 in the stands was tough,” linebacker Karlos Dansby. “Those were some dark days, but we finally reached the light at the end of the tunnel.”"
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