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[Jets News] Rex Ryan Says Jets WR Santonio Holmes Wants To Go On Retreat With Mark Sanchez

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:36:10 GMT

According to Jets coach Rex Ryan, wide receiver Santonio Holmes has a first step in mind to improve his strained relationship with quarterback Mark Sanchez. Ryan told the New York Post that Holmes has suggested the two go on a weekend retreat to begin the process of improving their chemistry. "It seemed like that was what Santonio was talking about," Ryan said from Indianapolis, where he was making promotional appearances before the Super Bowl. "I don't know if he's reached out to Mark yet and done anything, but that is what I believe to be true." The rift between Sanchez and Holmes was revealed after the Jets� disappointing 8-8 season. Jets veteran running back LaDainian Tomlinson said the rift was �as bad as I�ve ever been around.�

Source: Sporting News

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[Raiders News] Raiders Considering Stanford Assistant Jason Tarver As Defensive Coordinator

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:32:31 GMT

The Oakland Raiders are considering hiring current Stanford defensive coordinator Jason Tarver as its new defensive coordinator, according to ESPN�s Adam Schefter. Tarver, 37, previously served as an assistant coach with the San Francisco 49ers from 2001-2010 before being named co-defensive coordinator last season at Stanford.

Source: Sports Illustrated

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[Giants News] All Giants Players Take Part In Final Walkthrough For Super Bowl XLVI

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:28:13 GMT

All of the Giants players -- including RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot), DE Osi Umenyiora (ankle/knee), S Tyler Sash (foot), and WLB Jacquian Williams -- took part in Saturday's walkthrough, according to pool reporter Jason Cole. There will be team meetings from 7:30 pm until 9:15 pm ET on Saturday night, followed by briefer meetings on Sunday morning.

Source: CBS Sports

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[Buccaneers News] Former Rutgers Assistant P.J. Fleck Joins Buccaneers As WR Coach

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:25:51 GMT

The Bucs are expected to add several of coach Greg Schiano's Rutgers assistants to their coaching staff in the coming days, and the first one may already be on board. Former Rutgers receivers coach P.J. Fleck, after a bizarre series of events this week, reportedly is headed to Tampa Bay to coach the Buccaneers' receivers. Fleck had joined Northern Illinois this week as the school's offensive coordinator, but resigned on Friday -- one day after being named -- presumably because of his plans to join the Bucs. The news of Fleck's decision to join the Bucs is being reported by ESPNChicago.com. Fleck coached under Schiano at Rutgers for the past two seasons.

Source: Tampa Bay Times

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[Panthers News] Panthers Likely To Release LB Thomas Davis?

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:21:10 GMT

Injury-plagued OLB Thomas Davis would like to stay with the Panthers and is willing to restructure his contract to facilitate his return. The Panthers would like to have him back, but the team is expected to release him before March 15, when he's due an $8 million bonus, if the two sides can't work out a very modest short-term deal (which would include a massive pay cut) by that time. Releasing him, of course, would not preclude them from working out a deal later in the offseason. Davis tore his right ACL for the third time in 22 months in Week Two of the 2011 season, bringing his season to an end. Pro Football Weekly is told the team feels he still has a chance to be a big contributor and battle for a starting spot, but he's just not a player any team can count on to stay healthy at this point.

Source: Pro Football Weekly

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[Giants News] Giants� Website Announces Team As Super Bowl Champion

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:17:46 GMT

The New York Giants� website had a large image proclaiming the team as Super Bowl Champions a day before the game, according to NFL.com. The image featured ads for official Super Bowl Champions gear and a picture of the Lombardi Trophy. The page was taken down and replaced with a �page not found� screen quickly, according to NFL.com. Tomorrow night, the Giants will face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI.

Source: Sports Illustrated

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[Rams News] Rams Likely To Keep QB Kellen Clemens As Their Backup Next Year

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:13:37 GMT

The odds are looking pretty strong that Kellen Clemens, who played under new Rams offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer with the Jets, will return as Sam Bradford's backup next season. "Obviously I'm a big fan of Kellen," Schottenheimer said. " � I think here's a guy that understands what it means to be a pro. He was unbelievable in meetings for us in New York. It does not surprise me that he came in here and played well because he takes his craft very, very seriously."

Source: Pro Football Weekly

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[Seahawks News] Seahawks Believe A Healthy OG Robert Gallery Will Rebound In 2012

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:09:49 GMT

In his first year with the Seahawks, free-agent addition Robert Gallery had a real roller-coaster season. But after struggling the first half of the season with a groin injury, we hear the team was quite pleased with the former Raider first-round draft pick's play at left guard down the stretch. "He was one of a lot of veteran guys who wasn't in the best of shape because of not having a full conditioning program. They're looking forward to him hopefully being a lot healthier next year."

Source: Pro Football Weekly

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[Colts News] Colts Owner Jim Irsay Looking For A Culture Change With Recent Personnel Moves

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:07:08 GMT

Colts owner Jim Irsay said he was looking for a culture change � and early signs point to a dramatic shift. Former vice chairman Bill Polian and head coach Jim Caldwell were veiled in secrecy in their relationship with the media. Meanwhile, new GM Ryan Grigson and head coach Chuck Pagano have been very gracious with their time thus far. Irsay said at his press conference announcing the departure of the Polians that he wanted the relationship between the team and the media to improve and it has been very positive early under the new regime.

Source: Pro Football Weekly

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[Ravens News] Ravens Hoping To Re-Sign CB Lardarius Webb Before Free Agency Begins?

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:02:36 GMT

At the club's season-ending press conference, Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said the Ravens would consider signing CB Lardarius Webb, who's slated to be a restricted free agent, to a long-term deal. "(Is) that something that we would entertain? Yes. I think it would be best for this organization. The sooner you strike, the better deal you can get for yourself," Newsome said. The Ravens' GM cited the play of Webb, Cary Williams and Jimmy Smith as one of the season's positives.

Source: Pro Football Weekly

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[Bengals News] Bengals Looking For RB Bernard Scott To Be An Every-Down Back In 2012?

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:59:15 GMT

Bengals RB coach Jim Anderson wants to see Bernard Scott become more of an all-around back. "He has that versatility, so we just expect for him to work on it," Anderson told PFW at the Senior Bowl. "We're going to work on it and everything so that he can be more of the total package." Scott carried 112 times for 380 yards and caught 13 passes for 38 yards in 2011, his third NFL season. Overall, Scott received nearly twice as many touches as he did the previous season. The potential for Scott to receive even more work in 2012 is very apparent with starter Cedric Benson slated to be an unrestricted free agent. Should Benson depart, Scott will be the top option at tailback, though Cincinnati would figure to add another veteran and/or a rookie via the draft to bolster the depth at the position.

Source: Pro Football Weekly

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[Bills News] Bills LB Kelvin Sheppard To Move Inside, Nick Barnett To Play OLB In 4-3

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:56:33 GMT

How much did Kelvin Sheppard impress the Bills' coaching staff during his rookie season? He already has a spot in the team's new 4-3 defense. "I know Shep's going to be in the middle, don't hold me to anything after that," head coach Chan Gailey told reporters last week. The Bills are shifting to a four-man front under Dave Wannstedt and questions remain about personnel, mainly at one DE spot and in the LB corps. It's expected that Nick Barnett, who excelled in his first season in Buffalo as one of the inside linebackers, will move outside in 2012. It was Sheppard, though, whom Gailey showed confidence in by announcing that his position is set in stone.

Source: Pro Football Weekly

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[Dolphins News] Dolphins Might Add Another Running Back

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:50:52 GMT

Dolphins rookie RB Daniel Thomas battled injuries and didn't show a whole lot in his first season, but the club is still behind the player it traded up to draft in 2011. "Daniel is going to be a fine player. I believe in him," GM Jeff Ireland said at the Senior Bowl. "He's tough, he's strong, he learned the pass protections really quick. He's got to keep his feet in the ground when he's making contact." The Dolphins were 11th in the league in rushing, thanks to a breakout campaign by Reggie Bush, but Pro Football Weekly hears they still might draft another back to add depth to the unit. Short-yardage back Lex Hilliard is a restricted free agent.

Source: Pro Football Weekly

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[Jaguars News] Shahid Khan Wants To Grow Jacksonville, Not Just Jaguars

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:32:48 GMT

Many have tabbed new Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shahid Khan as a savvy businessman who will approach owning the Jaguars in a different manner than Wayne Weaver did. We've already seen it a bit with Khans "bravado" and the announcement that the team will change the primary uniform color and get entirely new Nike jerseys in 2013. It looks like Khan's business mind is going to work for the city of Jacksonville as well and not just for the franchise. "There are a huge amount of decisions made in global centers like London or Hamburg, Germany," Khan said. "Jacksonville is not on their checklist or on their list of cities. They might have Miami or cities with bigger names. If a multinational company is expanding, they need to know Jacksonville is an option," Khan told the Florida-Times Union in Indianapolis on Friday. "So if we are fortunate to be playing a game, the city fathers, the development leaders need to be on the plane selling the city and meeting with some key decision makers. You can have appointments lined up." Khan explained that Jacksonville has a great deep-water port that is underutilized and doesn't have near the activity it did in the 1980's and the 1990's when Khan would make trips to Jacksonville three times a month. He also said when the Jaguars play in Europe, he plans to fly out local economic developers to meet with foreign business leaders.

Source: SBNation.com

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[Cowboys News] Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Had "50 Concussions" In College

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:26:00 GMT

During one of the segments in the debut of Costas Tonight on NBC Sports Network, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones chimed in on a topic that had been addressed before he took the stage. Jones, who played college football at Arkansas, said that he has had "50 concussions." He then joked that, if he hadn't suffered so many blows to the head, he would have been the President of the U.S. instead of the owner of the Cowboys.

Source: Sports Illustrated

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[NFL News] NFL Commisioner Roger Goodell Says Kickoffs Likely To Stay At 35-Yard Line

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:23:12 GMT

The NFL moved up kickoffs in the name of safety, and it appears commissioner Roger Goodell won�t move it back this offseason. �We knew there would be less kickoff returns,� Goodell told the Sun-Times on Friday. �But we thought safety was really a part of the initiative until we come up with a better solution.� Asked if the league would consider moving kickoffs from the 35 back to the 30, Goodell said, �We will evaluate again this offseason. But I don�t think we�re moving it back.� In 2010, there were 416 touchbacks (16.4 percent of all kickoffs, according to STATS), and Baltimore Ravens kicker Billy Cundiff led the league with 40. In 2011, there were 1,120 touchbacks (43.5 percent), and 11 players had more than 40.

Source: Chicago Sun-Times

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[Raiders News] Los Angeles Suddenly Long-Shot Option For Raiders

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:20:33 GMT

Raiders owner Mark Davis said Jan. 10 that he already has received offers from investors who want to build stadiums in the Los Angeles area about the prospect of the Raiders relocating to the part of the state they left after the 1994 season. Davis declined to go into specifics. However, he made it abundantly clear that Los Angeles remains a viable option as long as the Raiders don�t have a better option than the Oakland Coliseum in its current state. �Los Angeles is a possibility,� Davis said. �Wherever�s a possibility. We need a stadium.� NFL commissioner Roger Goodell splahsed a tub of cold water on the Raiders, or any other NFL team, moving to Los Angeles by saying, �We want to keep our teams where they are.� Further, Goodell said if the NFL returns to Los Angeles at some point, it likely would be with one or two expansion teams.

Source: Oakland Tribune

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[Chargers News] USC Linebackers Coach Joe Barry Reportedly Bound For Chargers

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:16:15 GMT

Joe Barry, USC�s linebackers coach for the last two seasons, has reached agreement with the San Diego Chargers to become their linebackers coach, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported in this story. Barry, 41, coached in the NFL for 10 seasons before joining Coach Lane Kiffin�s staff in 2010. Barry�s departure leaves Kiffin with two vacancies on his staff. Willie Mack Garza resigned as defensive backs coach on the eve of the 2011 season.

Source: Los Angeles Times

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[49ers News] San Francisco Couldn�t Compete With 49ers� Santa Clara Deal

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:10:10 GMT

The National Football League�s $200 million contribution all but ensures that the 49ers will go forward with their plan for a new stadium in Santa Clara. Barring a major setback � such as construction delays, or a legal ruling against changes from the deal Santa Clara voters approved in June 2010 � the 49ers will be heading 40 miles south by the 2015 season. In terms of government assistance, the 49ers are getting a deal they could not have dreamed of attaining in San Francisco. Santa Clara�s City Council has agreed to provide an $850 million loan for the stadium. A group of Santa Clara stadium opponents has demanded a referendum on this change in scope of the city commitment, but the council has refused, and its attorneys maintain that it is consistent with the intent of the voter-approved Measure J.

Source: San Francisco Chronicle

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[Broncos News] Broncos Hire New Salary Cap Guru Mike Sullivan

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:04:45 GMT

John Elway spent his first year as the Broncos' football operations boss observing, absorbing, interrogating and learning. Now, Elway is starting to restructure the team's front office in his image. Two weeks after he promoted Matt Russell, a former University of Colorado star linebacker, to director of player personnel, Elway made another significant move this week when he brought in a new salary cap director. The Broncos did not renew the contract of Mike Bluem, their longtime capologist, and replaced him with Mike Sullivan, who oversaw the Octagon Sports agency's football division and has been negotiating player contracts for the past 25 years. Bluem had been with the Broncos for 17 seasons, working closely with general managers Ted Sundquist, Jim Goodman and Brian Xanders.

Source: Denver Post

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[Bills News] Teammate Says Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick Played With Cracked Ribs

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 20:59:34 GMT

Bills wide receiver David Nelson confirmed to NBC Sports on Friday what Bills fans had long assumed: quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick played more than half of the 2011 season injured. Nelson told Doug Flutie that Fitzpatrick cracked ribs during the team's Week 8 win over the Washington Redskins. "A lot of people don't know, but Fitz during the Washington game actually cracked a couple of ribs. So after that, he was playing hurt," Nelson confirmed to Flutie.

Source: SBNation.com

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[Dolphins News] Dolphins Hire Ken O'Keefe, Lou Anarumo

Sweets — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 19:48:17 GMT

The Miami Dolphins have hired Ken O'Keefe as receivers coach and Lou Anarumo as secondary coach. O'Keefe was previously the offensive coordinator at Iowa. Anarumo was the secondary coach at Purdue. He has also coached at Harvard, Syracuse, Marshall and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Both coaches have strong ties to new Dolphins coach Joe Philbin.

Source: Scout.com

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[NFL News] Retired NFL RB Curtis Martin Hopes To Be Inducted Into HOF With Bill Parcells

Sweets — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:33:53 GMT

Running back Curtis Martin and Bill Parcells are finalists for the Hall of Fame. And according to Hank Gola of the New York Daily News, Martin would love to be enshrined with his coach. �As far as my football career, I consider him my father figure and my mentor,� Martin said. �If it was not for Bill Parcells, my career wouldn�t be even half of what it was and I�m not saying that modestly. I�m not nervous at all. The exciting part of it for me is the possibility of going in with Bill. If I could guarantee that Bill would make it and that meant that I couldn�t make it, I would make that sacrifice. That�s how much he�s meant to me.� Parcells, 70, always tried to keep his players humble, including Martin. After Martin�s first 100-yard game with the Patriots, Parcells passed by the running back�s locker as he was being interviewed by reporters and said, �Don�t go putting him in Canton yet.� �I remember that day,� said Martin, 38. Now Parcells says that Martin should be going to Canton �on roller skates.� Some consider Martin a near shoo-in to make it through this time, after all, he�s the fourth-leading rusher in NFL history. Parcells, up twice before he returned to coaching with the Cowboys, has credentials that stack up against the best coaches ever, a two-time Super Bowl winner with the Giants, he is the only coach to lead four franchises to the playoffs.

Source: The Redzone

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[Rams News] Rams Dealing With Lease Issue As London Ticket Sales Suspended

Sweets — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:24:26 GMT

Ticket sales for the NFL's annual game in London have been suspended while the St. Louis Rams try to solve an issue regarding the lease on their stadium. NFL UK said in a statement on its website that the Rams "have expressed optimism that a resolution is near" and it expects the ticket sales to resume shortly. "We're going to play the London games," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said Friday. "We hope it will be with the Rams and the New England Patriots next year. That's what we planned. ... But there are issues that obviously are going to have to get resolved. We know there are discussions going on. We hope that will get resolved shortly." The Rams are scheduled to host the Patriots at Wembley on Oct. 28 and have agreed to give up a home game in each of the next three seasons to play in London. However, that apparently clashes with the team's lease on the Edward Jones Dome, where the Rams play their regular home games. "The reason for the postponement [of ticket sales] is to allow the Rams and their stadium authority time to finalize the technical amendments to the lease required under the terms of the Rams' commitment to London," NFL UK said.

Source: CBSSports

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[Chargers News] Chargers LB Shaun Phillips Sued In 2009 Bottle Incident

Sweets — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:13:53 GMT

A man has filed a lawsuit against San Diego Chargers linebacker Shaun Phillips alleging the player broke a Champagne bottle over his head at a Pacific Beach bar in 2009 according to Kristina Davis of the San Diego Union-Tribune. Kam Saran filed the lawsuit in San Diego Superior Court in November. The suit says Phillips struck or dropped the bottle on Saran�s head at Bar West. Saran, then 24, suffered a laceration and closed-head injury as a result, according to the suit. Phillips� attorney responded to the suit in December, denying all allegations. San Diego police investigated the Nov. 23, 2009, incident when it occurred but made no arrests.

Source: The Redzone

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[Falcons News] Retractable Roof Not Ruled Out For Falcons Stadium

Sweets — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:21:15 GMT

The Atlanta Falcons' desired open-air stadium might wind up with a retractable roof if ongoing negotiations get bogged down according to Tim Tucker and Leon Stafford of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. While both the Falcons and the Georgia World Congress Center Authority say the focus remains on trying to reach a deal that would put the team in an outdoor stadium and preserve the nearby Georgia Dome for indoor events, neither side shuts the door on the option of an indoor/outdoor, retractable-roof facility. That option would be much more expensive, could make the Dome unneeded and would represent a change in stance for the Falcons, who have expressed a preference for an open-air stadium without the added cost of a retractable roof. A Georgia legislator briefed on the negotiations between the GWCC Authority, which oversees the state-owned complex that includes the Georgia Dome, and the Falcons told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution this week that a new stadium with a retractable roof and a natural grass playing surface is among the options being considered. Another person familiar with the negotiations said a retractable roof could be pursued if it is determined that two stadiums �- the Dome plus a new open-air facility �- on GWCC property are not financially or logistically viable, asked for the Falcons' current position, team president Rich McKay said in an email: "A retractable roof stadium has always been one of the options, but our first preference has been to focus on an open-air stadium."

Source: The Redzone

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[Chiefs News] Chiefs Hire Ex-Dolphins Assistant Brian Daboll As Offensive Coordinator

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 06:48:03 GMT

The Kansas City Chiefs have hired former Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Brian Daboll as their offensive coordinator, NFL Network's Michael Lombardi confirmed Friday night. NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora reported Friday afternoon that the Chiefs were talking to Daboll, who has a relationship with Kansas City General Manager Scott Pioli from Pioli's time in New England, where Daboll was on the coaching staff from 2000 to 2006. Daboll was the offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns from 2009 to 2010.

Source: NFL.com

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[Bengals News] Bengals QB Andy Dalton Wants More Responsibility In 2012

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:29:37 GMT

The Bengals' Andy Dalton exceeded expectations in 2011 when he was the AFC's top rookie quarterback. A second-round pick last year, Dalton became the only rookie in NFL history to throw for 20 or more touchdown passes while winning eight or more games as a starting quarterback. Dalton is looking for more responsibility in his second season. "Going into next year, they're going to put more on me and that's what I want," said Dalton, who was at the Super Bowl to promote the Panini Pop Warner Bowl. "We were going into a new system so everyone had to learn," Dalton said of the challenges from last season. "For the rookies, we didn't know anything different. It'll be nice to know the schedule this year."

Source: ESPN.com

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[Packers News] Packers TE Jermichael Finley Says He Hopes To Remain In Green Bay

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:20:25 GMT

Packers tight end Jermichael Finley made the rounds at radio row on Friday as one of the few players not pushing some kind of product. Of course, he was asked about his contract situation and if there has been any progression. �Nothing new,� Finley said. �It�s the NFL. It�s a business right now. I don�t even know what�s going on. You�ve just got to play that game. I don�t know anything and just hope for the best.� Finley gave a firm endorsement of Tom Clements being promoted from quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator. �It�s awesome,� Finley said. �Tom, he�s one of those guys that details his craft. He�s going to be a good one. As you can see, he developed ARod to a great quarterback. You want people who have been there around you the whole time. Chemistry, too, it�s big in the NFL. Hopefully, I can sign with the Packers so I can experience that.�

Source: Green Bay Press Gazette

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[Cowboys News] Ex-Cowboy OG Kurt Vollers Gets 2-1/2 Years On Marijuana Charge

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:11:49 GMT

Former Cowboys and Colts offensive lineman Kurt Vollers has been sentenced to 2-1/2 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to a federal charge of conspiracy to distribute marijuana. U.S. District Judge Sidney Fitzwater sentenced Vollers in federal court in Dallas on Friday, almost two years after pleading guilty to conspiracy to sell more than 100 kilograms of marijuana. He could have received a 40-year prison term. The 31-year-old played for Dallas from 2002-04 and appeared in two games for Indianapolis in 2005. Prosecutors say Vollers helped three other men in delivering marijuana to the Dallas area from January 2006 through May 2008.

Source: Associated Press

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[Rams News] Rams Interview NFL Personnel Executive Ron Hill For GM Position

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:08:16 GMT

The St. Louis Rams have interview longtime NFL personnel executive Ron Hill for their general manager vacancy, Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. Hill worked in front offices with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Atlanta Falcons before moving on to the league office. Hill ran the Falcons drafts, including when the team traded up to select Michael Vick in 2001. Thomas adds that despite a recent promotion, Tennessee Titans Director of Player Personnel Lake Dawson remains a candidate.

Source: Mac's Football Blog

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[Texans News] Texans Increase Ticket Prices For 2012

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:05:19 GMT

The Houston Texans announced that, on average, ticket prices for the 2012 season will increase by 8.5 percent. Ticket prices for the Texans, who have 101 consecutive sellouts, had remained the same over the 2010 and 2011 seasons. The least expensive tickets -- Gridiron Terrace -- will remain at $30. Prices for seats at the "Gridiron" tier will increase by $3 to $5 per seat. The largest increases are for the "Field Level" seats, with the most expensive Prime 1 seats increasing from $120 to $130 while other "Field Level" seats will increase by $7 to $10 per seat. "Our fans have created one of the best home field advantages in the NFL, as anyone who saw the Wild Card game can attest," Texans Senior Vice President of Ticketing and Event Management John Schriever said "We want to continue to make our games accessible to a broad audience while still pricing in a manner that reflects the strong demand for our tickets. Fielding a championship caliber team and delivering a world class experience for our fans requires us to generate revenues that keep pace with our competition."

Source: Mac's Football Blog

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[NFL News] Roger Goodell Says There Are No Plans To Expand NFL Anytime Soon

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:01:53 GMT

During his annual Super Bowl news conference, Commissioner Roger Goodell said Friday there hasn't been any discussion about adding to the league's 32 teams, and indicated he's not too keen about the idea of shifting a franchise, either. "We have not talked about expansion in the league at all. It has not been on our agenda. It is not something we've focused on with our membership. And I don't see that in the foreseeable future," Goodell said. "We want to keep our teams where they are. We believe that's healthier for the league in the long term. We're working to get stadiums built and make sure we do whatever we can to make sure those teams are successful in those communities." Los Angeles, the second-largest market in the U.S., has been without an NFL team since the Rams and Raiders both left after the 1994 season. "We would like to be back in Los Angeles, if we can do it correctly," Goodell said. "There are a lot of issues that have to be balanced there."

Source: CBS Sports

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[Bills News] Bills WR Stevie Johnson Says He's 'Done' With TD Celebrations

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 02:59:56 GMT

Stevie Johnson drew a lot of attention over the past two years with his touchdown celebrations, much of it unwanted. And as he heads towards an offseason that could see him become a free agent, those antics have to be concerning for teams interested in Johnson's service. Except Johnson says that he's 'done' with touchdown celebrations moving forward, regardless of where he ends up playing. "It could be a good thing or a bad thing," Johnson said when asked if teams would be worried. "But no matter what: I'm done with it. When I was doing my first couple seasons, I was just trying to be a relevant guy, you know? I think people are beginning to know who [No.] 13 is." Apparently Johnson's just going to quit coming up with random, quirky ways to draw attention to himself? "Yeah, for real man," Johnson said. "Just thumbs ups. I'm going to still play with the confidence and swagger I have but thinking about what I'm doing next, I'm done with it."

Source: CBS Sports

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[NFL News] OSU WR Justin Blackmon Says He'll 'Do It All' At The Combine

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 02:56:41 GMT

Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Blackmon told NFL Network that he won�t sit out any drills or tests at the Scouting Combine, which will be held Feb. 22-28 in Indianapolis. Blackmon said he will �do it all� and predicted he will run the 40-yard dash in 4.4 to 4.5 seconds. Sporting News draft Russ Lande ranks Blackmon (6-1, 211), who caught 122 passes for 1,522 and 18 touchdowns in 2011, as the top wide receiver in the draft. Blackmon decided to skip his senior year and enter the draft.

Source: Sporting News

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[Jaguars News] Son Of Jaguars Head Coach Mike Mularkey Arrested On Drug Charge

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 02:55:03 GMT

Chapel Hill police say the son of new Jacksonville Jaguars coach Mike Mularkey is among three former North Carolina athletes arrested for possession of cocaine. Police say Shane Michael Mularkey was among the three arrested. The 21-year-old Mularkey played in all 13 games for the Tar Heels in 2009, but school spokesman Kevin Best said he left the team after the 2010 season. A Jaguars spokesman says the team is aware of the arrest, adding that it is a personal matter and that Mike Mularkey has no comment at this time. Also arrested Friday were 21-year-old Nicole Marie Suarez and 20-year-old Jacob Carl Groeschen.

Source: Associated Press

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[Dolphins News] Sources Say Dolphins On Peyton Manning's Short List Of Desired Landing Spots

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 02:43:10 GMT

Peyton Manning is in the middle of a difficult breakup with the Indianapolis Colts, and it appears he's ready to run into the arms of another NFL team. An NFL source says Miami is on the short list of teams Manning would like to play for when/if the Colts release him to avoid paying a $28 million bonus, which is due on March 8. Manning and his wife own a condo on South Beach and a source said they'd love to relocate to South Florida if the fit is right. A second source confirmed Manning's interest in the Dolphins. Playing for the Dolphins would allow Manning to remain in the AFC, and the Colts are on Miami's schedule next season, which is an added bonus.

Source: Sun-Sentinel

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[Bills News] Bills K Rian Lindell Agrees To Contract Extension

SteveRobWhatever — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 02:41:23 GMT

The Bills and long-time kicker Rian Lindell have agreed on a contract that will keep him in Buffalo according to Joe Buscaglia of WGR550 who cites a league source. Lindell was set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 13, but the two sides have hammered out an agreement. Lindell has spent nine seasons as the kicker for Buffalo since arriving from the Seattle Seahawks. From 2003 to 2010, Lindell didn't miss a single game for Buffalo. It wasn't until this past season that he missed eight regular season games due to a shoulder injury.

Source: The Redzone

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[Jaguars News] Jaguars To Change Uniforms To All Black In 2013

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:28:34 GMT

Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan at the Super Bowl said the Jaguars will go to all black uniforms according to John Oehser of Jaguars.com. The change will begin in 2013.

Source: The Redzone

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[Giants News] Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw Misses Final Practice, Probable For Super Bowl

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:24:48 GMT

New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw didn't participate in practice Friday, the final session before Sunday's Super Bowl per Albert Breer of NFL Network. Bradshaw had participated in Wednesday's practice on a limited basis and was a full participant Thursday. It has not been unusual for Bradshaw to play in a game after missing a day or two of practice since he broke a bone in his foot during the regular season. Defensive back Tyler Sash and defensive end Osi Umenyiora (ankle, knee) were limited. All three players are listed as probable, along with wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (shoulder), cornerback Corey Webster (hamstring) and linebacker Jacquian Williams (foot).

Source: The Redzone

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[Colts News] Colts Release A Statement On QB Peyton Manning

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:19:59 GMT

After Indianapolis Colts and quarterback Peyton Manning exchanged messages through the media throughout the Super Bowl, the team released a statement on Friday expressing their unity and attached a picture of the group from the team's party on Thursday night. "Peyton Manning, Jim Irsay and the entire Colts family remain close and unified as we continue to work through all the options that relate to his future with the Colts. The present focus is on the Super Bowl and the great game that awaits."

Source: Mac's Football Blog

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[Steelers News] Hospitalized Steelers RB Coach Kirby Wilson Could Get Promotion

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:56:58 GMT

ESPN reported that hospitalized RB coach Kirby Wilson could be promoted to offensive coordinator if he recovers quickly. His family released a statement this week, saying he �remains in serious condition (in a burn unit), his status is stable, and he has started his physical rehabilitation.� The family also thanked well-wishers.

Source: CBSSports

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[Patriots News] Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski Practices, Questionable For Sunday

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:52:23 GMT

Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski participated in the team's light walk-through on Friday, an encouraging sign that he'll be able to play on Sunday vs. the Giants in Super Bowl XLVI. He is listed as questionable. From the official pool report distributed to the members of the Pro Football Writers of America: "Dressed in gray sweatpants, gray sneakers and a dark blue t-shirt bearing the popular 'Yo Soy Fiesta' phrase he recently coined, Gronkowski moved without a limp when the Patriots executed their offensive plays."

Source: CBSSports

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[Bears News] Bears RB Matt Forte Okay With Franchise Tag If It Leads To New Contract

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:49:40 GMT

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte told the "Waddle & Silvy" program on ESPN 1000 in Chicago that he's okay with receiving the franchise tag if that leads to a long-term contract. "It depends on the motive of (the franchise tag)," Forte said on Thursday. "If they are doing the franchise tag just to get more time in order to negotiate a long-term deal then I would be okay with it. But if it's just to hold me another year and just 'Let's throw some money at him right now to keep him quiet,' that's not going to solve anything." The Bears have no intention of letting Forte depart via free agency, but have been unable to reach agreement on a long-term contract. The Bears were reportedly offering a contract that included $13 to $14 million in guaranteed money, while Forte's camp was looking at guaranteed money of over $20 million. The running back franchise tender is projected to be worth around $8 million in 2012.

Source: Mac's Football Blog

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[Rams News] Head Coach Jeff Fisher Says Rams Open To Trading 2nd Overall Pick

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:11:59 GMT

Rams coach Jeff Fisher told Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch the team is open to the possibility of trading the No. 2 overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft. And he views the pick as a pivotal moment for the Rams franchise. "There are going to be teams that have some interest in that pick," Fisher said. "What we do will define the future of this franchise moving forward. If we stay there who do we take, if we move down who do we take. What if we move down and come back up. That's going to define the future."

Source: The Redzone

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[Broncos News] Broncos FS Brian Dawkins Will Wait To Decide On His NFL Future

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:09:47 GMT

Brian Dawkins said Thursday the only way he would play one more NFL season is if he returns to the Broncos according to Mike Klis of the Denver Post. Not that Dawkins, 38, is ready to commit to playing one more year or retirement after the safety finished his 16th NFL season with a ninth Pro Bowl nod. "The season is not over yet," Dawkins said. "Our season is, but this football season is not. So why talk about that? I'm not ready to make that announcement. I'll pray about it. If the Broncos want me back at that time, we'll talk."

Source: The Redzone

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[Rams News] Rams Agree To Terms With CFL OL Jovan Olafioye

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:04:00 GMT

The St. Louis Rams have agreed to terms with CFL offensive lineman Jovan Olafioye, Adam Caplan of The Sideline View reports. Terms were not disclosed. Undrafted out of North Carolina Central in 2010, Olafioye has spent the last two seasons with the B.C. Lions, earning All-Star honors in 2011. The 6-foot-6, 325-pound lineman worked out for and/or visited 15 teams over the last six weeks, including a January 5 workout for the Rams. Other teams that were interested in Olafioye were the Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants, New York Jets, Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Washington Redskins, New Orleans Saints, Cincinnati Bengals, San Francisco 49ers and Carolina Panthers. e.

Source: Mac's Football Blog

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[Chiefs News] Chiefs Interested In Dolphins Coach Brian Daboll As Next OC

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:18 GMT

The Kansas City Chiefs are talking to Brian Daboll about their vacant offensive-coordinator position, according to a league source. The Chiefs have also looked at Jim Zorn as an in-house candidate and have spoken to former Raiders coordinator Al Saunders, who has worked previously in Kansas City. Daboll, most recently Miami's offensive coordinator, has a history with general manager Scott Pioli and several executives expect him to be a top candidate for the job.

Source: NFL Network

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[NFL News] NFL Network To Air Thursday Night Games From Week 2 To Week 15

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:46:36 GMT

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the NFL Network will air 13 games as part of an expanded "Thursday Night Football" package. "We think thats great for the fans...and that's great for the network," Goodell said at Friday's State of the NFL press conference in Indianapolis. The NFL Network currently airs eight prime time games from Week 10-16, with one of those games occurring on Saturday night. The new package will have the NFL Network broadcasting 13 games from Week 2 through Week 15. When announcing extensions of broadcasting agreements in December, it was announced that NBC would replace the NFL Network on the Thanksgiving Night game beginning in 2012. Commissioner Goodell also announced that every team will get a prime time game in 2012, which each team playing one Thursday game following a Sunday game.

Source: Mac's Football Blog

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[Ravens News] Ravens Will Not Increase Ticket Prices In 2012

Sweets — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:35:52 GMT

For the third straight season, the Baltimore Ravens will not be raising tickets prices for the upcoming season, president Dick Cass announced on Friday. "We know that our fans are continuing to be stretched financially to pay for season tickets," Cass said. "While the economy is improving, it�s still not strong." The Ravens raised ticket prices in 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2009 and have sold out every game since 1998. In 2012, the Ravens will host the New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants in addition to their three AFC North opponents.

Source: Mac's Football Blog

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