- [Dolphins] Wide receiver Kenny Stills, tackle Branden Albert, safety Don Jones and tight end Gerell Robinson were present but did not practice [Tuesday].
- The Patriots currently have seven defensive ends on their roster as training camp nears. Ninkovich and Jones are penciled in as the starters, but Jabaal Sheard, a free agent signing from the Cleveland Browns, will provide the team with three top options at end and one of the better rotations in the NFL. I expect the Patriots to keep five or six defensive ends, and Zach Moore (second year) will challenge rookies Geneo Grissom, Trey Flowers and Xzavier Dickson for the final two or three spots on the roster.
- Time running out for Steelers' third-string quarterback Jones
By Ralph N. Paulk
Sunday, June 14, 2015, 8:24 p.m.
Landry Jones is a realist. He understands the challenge he faces as the Steelers go through minicamp this week.
For Jones, his future with the Steelers could hinge on how he performs this upcoming preseason. It's now or never for him to establish himself as the next man up behind quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
The third-year quarterback has had a difficult time adjusting since he was taken in the fourth round out of Oklahoma, where he thrived in a spread offense. He threw for more than 16,000 yards, but more importantly, he grasped the complexities of a high-octane offense fueled largely by his precise passing and decisiveness.
“Landry is at a point where he can compete,” quarterbacks coach Randy Fichtner said. “He knows he's at a time when it's probably make-or-break time for him. Eventually, if there isn't a potential move forward, the younger guys will have to get some work.
“I think the transition from what Landry played in college has taken a little longer for him. As with most spread guys, that happens.
“I feel confident he knows the offense, and he can execute it. Any rhythm-type plays take longer. He's gotten better at throwing the ball down field, and that sounds strange for a guy who threw for more than 16,000 yards in college.”
There might be a debate about the strength and accuracy of Jones' arm. There, too, are questions about his ability to conceptualize the nuances of a Steelers offense that was second best in the NFL last season.
But there is little doubt he's in for a long, hard fight to secure a spot on the active roster when the Steelers break camp in late August.
“This is an important year for me and my career,” Jones said. “It's also important for my future on this team. I need to go out there and prove I'm capable of making plays.”
So far, Jones hasn't distinguished himself from the competition. The Steelers signed former Clemson star Tajh Boyd to challenge Jones and to push last year's backup, Bruce Gradkowski.
“Landry has been a little up and down, but he's working hard,” offensive coordinator Todd Haley said. “It's a tough spot to be in, being the third guy. He's been thrust into getting a little more reps with Bruce being out, so he has to take advantage of that opportunity.”
Also, the Steelers spent part of last week's organized team activities taking a look at Devin Gardner and Tyler Murphy, both of whom have taken reps at quarterback and wide receiver.
“They are being evaluated every day, and they are competing,” Fichtner said. “They both need a lot of reps, so they can pick up certain schemes and see things visually. We're trying to get an idea what they all have.”
Jones said he doesn't feel pressured by the acquisition of Boyd, who went undrafted in 2014 after a record-setting career at Clemson.
“You can use it as an extra motivation, but I need to focus on what I'm doing,” Jones said. “I have to focus on the things I'm good at.”
Fichtner and Haley are still trying to determine just how Jones fits within the offense.
“I think with the competitiveness in that (quarterback) room, you always want to be the best one,” Fichtner said. “If you're the best one, then we all win, because we have a pretty good one (Roethlisberger) right now.
“They understand their roles, and they know someone has to come out of this as the backup quarterback. If I can get Landry Jones to be better than Ben Roethlisberger, then we all win.”
Jones, though, simply is trying to win a roster spot. His confident has grown because he understands the offense better.
“The game is starting to slow down a little bit for me,” Jones said. “It used to feel as if bodies were flying around me that rookie year. So, I've definitely gotten used to the speed of the game.
“I'm more comfortable with the offense. I'm recognizing things more, and I'm more confident in where I'm going with the football. There were some timing throws I wasn't as comfortable with as I am now.”
- After missing most of rookie camp and the first seven OTAs with a hamstring injury, Titans rookie Dorial Green-Beckham returned to practice on Tuesday. DGB looked good, per Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean.
- DeMarco Murray not just a product of Cowboys' O-line
By Chris Wesseling
Around the NFL Writer
Published: June 16, 2015 at 03:00 p.m.
Updated: June 16, 2015 at 08:58 p.m.
When Joseph Randle suggested last month that DeMarco Murray left "a lot of meat on the bone" last season, the implication was that the starting running back left yards on the field.
Does the 2014 Offensive Player of the Year owe his award to the Dallas Cowboys' dominant offensive line?
In a conversation with USA Today's Nate Davis, Murray scoffed at that suggestion.
"I think Barry Sanders is the only one who didn't have a great O-line," Murray said. "Emmitt Smith, Terrell Davis, all these guys had great lines.
"It's a little comedic to me. Every successful running back usually has a couple good offensive linemen. Those guys (in Dallas) were great, I've got a lot of respect for those guys. This group here (in Philadelphia), they've got some Pro Bowlers and great players."
It's fair to point out that Murray wasn't as explosive in December as he was in October, but nobody was questioning his talent when he put the team on his back with a record-breaking seven consecutive 100-yard rushing performances to open the 2014 season.
Prior to the new league year in March, coach Jason Garrett, quarterback Tony Romo and tight end Jason Witten all rejected the notion that the Cowboys could simply plug in another back to replace Murray.
It wasn't until Murray defected to Philadelphia that a narrative was constructed to devalue the workhorse running back's contributions to the Cowboys' most successful season in nearly a decade.
- Bradford's Sights Set On Training Camp
Posted 21 hours ago
By Alex Smith
As the Eagles began their 2015 mini-camp on Tuesday, the status of quarterback Sam Bradford's surgically repaired left knee continued to be one of the hot topics among the media contingent once the training session came to a close.
During Organized Team Activities, Bradford was limited to seven-on-seven and other individual drills. The song remained the same on Tuesday. The former No. 1 overall draft pick took snaps during seven-on-sevens and other team drills, but he wasn't quite ready for full 11-on-11 work.
Still Bradford continues to give reassurance that his knee is feeling strong.
"It's really just an OTA with a different title," Bradford said of Tuesday's training session. "It's really what we've been doing for the past couple weeks. Like I said when I talked to you guys last week, I feel like I've continued to progress and the knee continues to feel better. It felt good out there today.
"It feels more like normal. You're able to come out here and not think about it, and I really feel like that's the stage I'm getting to where I don't really think about it anymore … The more I'm out there, the more comfortable I get."
The media members assembled at mini-camp have obviously been keeping a close eye on Bradford during his first few weeks on the field, but one aspect of his recovery that isn't noticeable to the naked eye is his comfort level, an aspect of his game that has increased with each and every rep that Bradford takes.
"You guys have probably seen the progress from the time that you've been out here, but I just feel more comfortable dropping back," Bradford said. "When I first got out here, I was about a half-count slow. I feel like I've kind of worked myself back to as close to game speed as I can get it right now. Overall, I just feel more comfortable with me knee. I trust it more, it's not as sore, and overall I just feel better."
While it's clear that he's been able to do more on-field drills as the weeks have progressed, there's also a lot of progress going on behind the scenes.
"We're past doing just the weight room and the training room stuff," Bradford said. "Now it's more getting on the field and working through some different drills, continuing to throw and continuing to do sports specific stuff."
After the Eagles wrap up their three-day mini-camp on Thursday, the players won't take the practice field again until August 2, the first day of Training Camp. Between now and then, Bradford will continue to be around the NovaCare Complex in order to rehab, with hopes of being full-go by the time Training Camp begins.
"I'm going to be around here most of the time," said Bradford. "We sat down a little bit last week with the strength staff and the training staff and kind of put together a plan. I think it's five and a half or six weeks from the time we leave Thursday to when we get back, so I plan on sticking around here and continuing to work.
"When Training Camp comes around and I'm hopefully able to get out there for every snap, then I think things will really come together, but for the most part I feel really good about where I am right now."
- Sam Bradford. No news is good news for Bradford these days, who is continuing to slowly recover from the torn ACL that cost him all of last season. Bradford once again took part in seven-on-seven drills, but sat out the full team 11-on-11 session. Bradford looked sharp on Wednesday, hitting tight end Zach Ertz down the sideline for what looked like a 20-yard gain. Bradford has been targeting Ertz frequently during these minicamps and OTAs, and that should continue into the season.
- Speaking of the offensive line, the Redskins utilized the same “first group” as they did in OTAs last week: Tom Compton at left tackle, Shaw Lauvao at left guard, Kory Lichtensteiger at center, Spencer Long at right guard and Brandon Scherff at right tackle. Trent Williams continues to rehab his ankle, and is expected to return during training camp.
- [Lions] Jeremy Ross, Abdullah, TJ Jones, Ryan Broyles, Lance Moore, Golden Tate and Quandre Diggs all spent time returning either punts or kickoffs in OTAs.
Ross has held down both jobs for the last year and a half, and he’s not going to give up either duty without a fight, but this appears to be an open competition for the return duties.
Who gets reps and how many over the next three days might give us an indication of how many players are real contenders to win the return duties in camp.
- Vikings Roundup, 6/16: Right Guard Reps
Posted 17 hours ago
Craig Peters
Vikings.com
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Tyrus Thompson has been focused on getting his career off the ground, but a flight at 5 p.m. Thursday is in the back of his mind.
Hours after the Vikings mandatory minicamp wraps, the rookie will be headed to see his wife of three years and their two children, ending the longest amount of time he’s spent away from his family.
“It’s going to be great,” Thompson said. “I love those kids.”
Thompson arrived in Minnesota for a rookie minicamp a week after he was selected in the sixth round. We asked how he’s different as a person and player from when he arrived in early May.
“As a person, I’m the same guy,” Thompson said. “I’ve got a little more money in my pockets than I’ve ever had. It’s been a great learning experience, just learning from these guys and living out the dream I’ve had since I was a little kid.”
Part of Thompson’s dream becoming a reality is playing some the past two weeks at right guard after playing left and right tackle at Oklahoma. Thompson worked at second-string left tackle earlier during the Vikings offseason program, a time that he said allows coaches to evaluate “what we can do, where we can be valuable.”
“I think it’s a great opportunity for me right now at that right guard spot, especially with trying to get on the field right now,” Thompson said. “There’s no pride in ‘I’m a tackle or all that stuff.’ It’s I want to get on the field and play.”
He said he’s never played guard, but added with a laugh and smile, “there was a time when I had never played tackle, either.”
He showed media savvy when asked where he’s more comfortable by saying “offensive line.”
Fellow rookie T.J. Clemmings, the fourth-round pick who played right tackle for two seasons at Pittsburgh after switching from defense to offense, had never played guard until joining the Vikings, either.
Clemmings opened the offseason training activity practices at right guard with the first team after the Vikings opted to slide Brandon Fusco to left guard. Clemmings worked at right tackle Tuesday, with Mike Harris filling in for Phil Loadholt with the first team. Seventh-round pick Austin Shepherd and potential defense-to-offense convert Isame Faciane also had snaps at right guard.
Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer said it will be easier to evaluate offensive line play when training camp opens next month.
“It’s so difficult without the pads on to really know, because we’re taking care of each other upfront,” Zimmer said. “We’re not trying to do anything, so the evaluation part is just difficult for me at this point in time. I mean, you can see balance and body movement and things like that. I feel good about a lot of those things, but the tenacity and the physicality and those things, we’re going to have to wait until we get to camp.”
Thompson said the offseason program has provided a “fun and exciting” learning opportunity from veterans like Loadholt and center John Sullivan.
“It’s almost like having two coaches right there beside you so they’ve been helping me out,” Thompson said. “When I go in the locker room (after the interview), I’m going to ask them about some of the stuff we did, make sure I didn’t make any mistakes and try to clean up stuff the best I can to help us win a Super Bowl.”
- The [Vikings] right guard spot is still rookie Tyrus Thompson's, for now. Fellow rookie T.J. Clemmings assumed that spot at the start of OTAs, which ended last week. He's now at right tackle with the second team. Second-year guard David Yankey got a few looks at left guard when Fusco was held back.
- [Vikings] Josh Robinson, Casey Matthews, Captain Munnerlyn, DeMarcus Van Dyke and Michael Mauti did not practice on Tuesday. Anthony Barr, Brian Robison and Phil Loadholt were held out of team drills.
- Peterson: ‘totally different mindset’ this season
Posted 13 hours ago
Craig Peters
vikings.com
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Adrian Peterson told Voice of the Vikings Paul Allen he’s “stronger, faster, a smarter player, more calm and relaxed” on Tuesday when asked what is different about his game at this stage of an accomplished career.
“I just have a totally different mindset going into this season for sure, but, you know, just matured a lot in all areas,” Peterson said in an interview that was posted to Vikings.com this morning. The audio will open Allen’s 9 to Noon show on KFAN Wednesday.
Peterson is preparing for his ninth pro season. He has 10,190 career rushing yards, a 2012 NFL MVP title, six Pro Bowls and three All-Pro selections but said he missed his teammates the most in 2014 when he sat out all but one game.
“I kind of felt like I let those guys down. … That was the toughest part, sitting at home and watching those guys kind of struggle,” Peterson said.
The franchise leader in rushing rejoined Vikings at Winter Park two weeks ago and has made it clear he believes the Vikings can build off a 7-9 mark in 2014 and accomplish great things. Reasons for that notion include potential he saw from Teddy Bridgewater from afar last season, his belief in Vikings coaches and the offseason addition of receiver Mike Wallace.
“AP” told “PA” that Bridgewater is “a little more primed” this year.
“He got a year under his belt where he really wasn’t, you know, they were stacking the box and bringing a lot of pressure, so I think this year, it’s going to be a lot easier for him to go out and do what he does,” Peterson said. “He’s still a sharp young man. He’s eager and hungry to learn more and improve his game, and with that mentality and talent he has, the sky is the limit for him.”
A widespread smile beamed through Bridgewater’s facemask the first time he turned and handed the ball to Peterson, and the two have been developing their timing and exchanges. They’re also working together in the passing game, where the Vikings have lined up Peterson at multiple spots on the field and had him run routes or as a check-down option.
Peterson told Allen he’s been impressed by Bridgewater’s ability to survey all of his options on a play and make good decisions with the football.
“The biggest thing and what stands out the most to me is his ability to see the field,” Peterson said. “He’s not a guy that just locks in on one side. He’s able to read his reads and get back to the backside if needed or check the ball down, and you normally don’t see that with a first-year quarterback.”
The Vikings are scheduled to have two more days of minicamp this week before breaking until July 25 when they report for the 50th training camp at Minnesota State University, Mankato to resume working on the team’s goals.
“I feel like we have great potential, we have great talent and I feel like the sky is the limit for us,” Peterson said. “It’s really about us as a team putting in the effort and putting in the time to get there, but we have what it takes to make it into the playoffs and give ourselves a chance.”
- [Falcons] RBs Coleman and Devonta Freeman will continue to push each other, as will those vying for playing time at left guard — namely Chris Chester and Mike Person.
- Chris Chester, signed earlier this month as a free agent, is the leading candidate to win the [Falcons] left guard job.
- [Panthers] A disappointing week at the Senior Bowl pushed Daryl Williams just outside of the top 100 picks and I believe he'll ultimately outplay this position, perhaps even winning the starting right tackle role as a rookie.
- [Panthers] Defensive ends Charles Johnson and Frank Alexander spent most of the day on the exercise bikes after both suffered strain groins recently. Rivera was more optimistic about getting Johnson on the field at least one day this week, and he indicated it’d be a stretch to see Alexander back on the field.
- What We've Learned: The Panthers have found their replacement for Greg Hardy
The Carolina defense fell off quite a bit last season in the wake of defensive end Greg Hardy's season-long absence. They missed his presence on the field, to be sure, but his cloud of off-field issues didn't help matters.
Frank Alexander's less-publicized absence was a big issue, too—the talented defensive end missed the first 14 games because of his own suspension.
Alexander is back, and he's wrecking OTAs. The fourth-year pass-rusher has been hailed as an offseason MVP, according to Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer. That comes a year after head coach Ron Rivera said the same of Alexander.
If Alexander can stay out of trouble, he'll make Panthers fans forget about Hardy rather quickly.
- Opportunity to earn redemption
Published Wednesday, June 17, 2015 12:44 pm
by Ashley Mahoney
Opportunity doesn’t always knock a second time.
After what could have been the end of a brief NFL career, Frank Alexander has one season left on his rookie contract—just enough time to prove his worth as Carolina Panthers defensive end.
“Every day, before I go out to the field and start stretching, I get on my knees and I say a prayer thanking God for the opportunity, again, to be out there,” Alexander said. “We all know last year my dream could have been taken away from me. I’m 25 going on 26. I feel like I have to establish my own relationship with God. I can’t live off of my mom and dad’s prayers.”
After twice testing positive for marijuana in 2014, the league suspended Alexander for 14 games. He saw action in the regular season finale in Atlanta, posting one tackle. “It’s like a make or break year for me,” said Alexander. “I have to make this season count. Nothing’s ever been handed to me. I’ve always had to work, so I’m used to doing it. That’s what everybody dreams of—becoming a starter. You don’t just get to the NFL and just want to be a backup your whole career.”
With the departure of defensive end Greg Hardy to Dallas, Alexander has the chance to establish himself as a starter for the Panthers.
“You’ve just got to go out there and earn it,” said Alexander. “Every snap, every practice, you’ve gotta go out there and leave it on the field. You can’t take [anything] off the field. Once you leave it on the field, and you know you gave it your all that’s all you can control. Everything else is going to fall in line. That’s how I’d like to think about it—I just go out there and do the necessary things that I need to do to set myself apart so that the coaches say, ‘OK, we can trust Frank Alexander as a starter.’”
In his rookie season, Alexander started three of 16 games he played in, posting 18 tackles (10 solo), 2.5 sacks, three passes defensed, and two fumble recoveries. It was a dream come true for Alexander, who grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
“Ever since I was a little boy, I always wanted to be the best at it. I used to go to [elementary] school with a football…I didn’t even carry my books there,” he said. “I had my football with me. It’s been like that since day one. My mom and my pops they got me the NFL helmet, the jersey, and the pants, so I had a [hall of fame running back] Barry Sanders one. I wore that Barry Sanders outfit almost every day.”
In 2013, he started three of his 12 games. He tallied 15 tackles (nine solo), a sack, two passes defensed and fumble recovery.
“On the field I’m different, I’m different than I am in person,” said Alexander about his style of play. “In person, I care about people in their situations. I like to help out wherever I can. On the field, I’m a different person. You’ve got to get in the zone to play this game. I try to be disruptive…strong…not thinking about it, just going hard, just reading and reacting. I just like to go out there and play hard. Just give it my all.”
A 2013 breast cancer diagnosis for Alexander’s mother, Juanita and father Frank’s open-heart surgery triggered a downward spiral that resulted in the positive drug tests. Both have recovered, but Alexander struggled to cope. “Once you hear anything about your mom you already just think the worst,” said Alexander.
“When I heard breast cancer I just thought the worst of the worst. I’m just glad to see her doing well.”
June 11 marked Juanita’s one-year anniversary cancer free. While that period proved trying for Alexander, it inspired the birth of his nonprofit, Alexander’s Helping Hands to raise awareness for breast and other types of cancer. “When it hit close to home, you try to find out any information that you can about it to try to help out with other people who are going through the same thing,” said Alexander.
“My mama was fortunate and blessed to be a survivor. With her knowledge and my knowledge going together, we can help out around the community where a lot of people don’t know about these types of things.”
The compassion stems from Alexander’s football background. “That’s what you learn from playing football. From a young age, you learn that it’s not about you,” he said. “It’s a team sport. You’re just one person. It takes a team to win. That’s how I feel with me and my mom. She knows what she knows, because she went through it. I feel like we’ll be a good team.”
- The [Saints] punt return team was very deep on Tuesday afternoon. Wide receivers Brandon Cooks, Josh Morgan and Jalen Saunders, running backs C.J. Spiller and Marcus Murphy as well as safety Jairus Byrd all took time field punts.
- [Bucs QB] Jameis Winston has a mentor. It’s three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Gerald McCoy, who already has weighed in with his first few words of advice for the Buccaneers’ rookie quarterback.
“Lay low,” Winston said with a laugh.
McCoy has separated himself in an effort to help Winston mature. So has wide receiver Vincent Jackson and center Evan Smith. But McCoy has made the greatest effort to help, Winston said.
“He’s just such a good guy,” Winston said of McCoy. “He’s always looking to help me in any way. It’s good to have a big-time guy like that to take the time out to try to mentor a young guy like me.”
- The Patriots currently have seven defensive ends on their roster as training camp nears. Ninkovich and Jones are penciled in as the starters, but Jabaal Sheard, a free agent signing from the Cleveland Browns, will provide the team with three top options at end and one of the better rotations in the NFL. I expect the Patriots to keep five or six defensive ends, and Zach Moore (second year) will challenge rookies Geneo Grissom, Trey Flowers and Xzavier Dickson for the final two or three spots on the roster.
- Time running out for Steelers' third-string quarterback Jones
By Ralph N. Paulk
Sunday, June 14, 2015, 8:24 p.m.
Landry Jones is a realist. He understands the challenge he faces as the Steelers go through minicamp this week.
For Jones, his future with the Steelers could hinge on how he performs this upcoming preseason. It's now or never for him to establish himself as the next man up behind quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
The third-year quarterback has had a difficult time adjusting since he was taken in the fourth round out of Oklahoma, where he thrived in a spread offense. He threw for more than 16,000 yards, but more importantly, he grasped the complexities of a high-octane offense fueled largely by his precise passing and decisiveness.
“Landry is at a point where he can compete,” quarterbacks coach Randy Fichtner said. “He knows he's at a time when it's probably make-or-break time for him. Eventually, if there isn't a potential move forward, the younger guys will have to get some work.
“I think the transition from what Landry played in college has taken a little longer for him. As with most spread guys, that happens.
“I feel confident he knows the offense, and he can execute it. Any rhythm-type plays take longer. He's gotten better at throwing the ball down field, and that sounds strange for a guy who threw for more than 16,000 yards in college.”
There might be a debate about the strength and accuracy of Jones' arm. There, too, are questions about his ability to conceptualize the nuances of a Steelers offense that was second best in the NFL last season.
But there is little doubt he's in for a long, hard fight to secure a spot on the active roster when the Steelers break camp in late August.
“This is an important year for me and my career,” Jones said. “It's also important for my future on this team. I need to go out there and prove I'm capable of making plays.”
So far, Jones hasn't distinguished himself from the competition. The Steelers signed former Clemson star Tajh Boyd to challenge Jones and to push last year's backup, Bruce Gradkowski.
“Landry has been a little up and down, but he's working hard,” offensive coordinator Todd Haley said. “It's a tough spot to be in, being the third guy. He's been thrust into getting a little more reps with Bruce being out, so he has to take advantage of that opportunity.”
Also, the Steelers spent part of last week's organized team activities taking a look at Devin Gardner and Tyler Murphy, both of whom have taken reps at quarterback and wide receiver.
“They are being evaluated every day, and they are competing,” Fichtner said. “They both need a lot of reps, so they can pick up certain schemes and see things visually. We're trying to get an idea what they all have.”
Jones said he doesn't feel pressured by the acquisition of Boyd, who went undrafted in 2014 after a record-setting career at Clemson.
“You can use it as an extra motivation, but I need to focus on what I'm doing,” Jones said. “I have to focus on the things I'm good at.”
Fichtner and Haley are still trying to determine just how Jones fits within the offense.
“I think with the competitiveness in that (quarterback) room, you always want to be the best one,” Fichtner said. “If you're the best one, then we all win, because we have a pretty good one (Roethlisberger) right now.
“They understand their roles, and they know someone has to come out of this as the backup quarterback. If I can get Landry Jones to be better than Ben Roethlisberger, then we all win.”
Jones, though, simply is trying to win a roster spot. His confident has grown because he understands the offense better.
“The game is starting to slow down a little bit for me,” Jones said. “It used to feel as if bodies were flying around me that rookie year. So, I've definitely gotten used to the speed of the game.
“I'm more comfortable with the offense. I'm recognizing things more, and I'm more confident in where I'm going with the football. There were some timing throws I wasn't as comfortable with as I am now.”
- After missing most of rookie camp and the first seven OTAs with a hamstring injury, Titans rookie Dorial Green-Beckham returned to practice on Tuesday. DGB looked good, per Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean.
- DeMarco Murray not just a product of Cowboys' O-line
By Chris Wesseling
Around the NFL Writer
Published: June 16, 2015 at 03:00 p.m.
Updated: June 16, 2015 at 08:58 p.m.
When Joseph Randle suggested last month that DeMarco Murray left "a lot of meat on the bone" last season, the implication was that the starting running back left yards on the field.
Does the 2014 Offensive Player of the Year owe his award to the Dallas Cowboys' dominant offensive line?
In a conversation with USA Today's Nate Davis, Murray scoffed at that suggestion.
"I think Barry Sanders is the only one who didn't have a great O-line," Murray said. "Emmitt Smith, Terrell Davis, all these guys had great lines.
"It's a little comedic to me. Every successful running back usually has a couple good offensive linemen. Those guys (in Dallas) were great, I've got a lot of respect for those guys. This group here (in Philadelphia), they've got some Pro Bowlers and great players."
It's fair to point out that Murray wasn't as explosive in December as he was in October, but nobody was questioning his talent when he put the team on his back with a record-breaking seven consecutive 100-yard rushing performances to open the 2014 season.
Prior to the new league year in March, coach Jason Garrett, quarterback Tony Romo and tight end Jason Witten all rejected the notion that the Cowboys could simply plug in another back to replace Murray.
It wasn't until Murray defected to Philadelphia that a narrative was constructed to devalue the workhorse running back's contributions to the Cowboys' most successful season in nearly a decade.
- Bradford's Sights Set On Training Camp
Posted 21 hours ago
By Alex Smith
As the Eagles began their 2015 mini-camp on Tuesday, the status of quarterback Sam Bradford's surgically repaired left knee continued to be one of the hot topics among the media contingent once the training session came to a close.
During Organized Team Activities, Bradford was limited to seven-on-seven and other individual drills. The song remained the same on Tuesday. The former No. 1 overall draft pick took snaps during seven-on-sevens and other team drills, but he wasn't quite ready for full 11-on-11 work.
Still Bradford continues to give reassurance that his knee is feeling strong.
"It's really just an OTA with a different title," Bradford said of Tuesday's training session. "It's really what we've been doing for the past couple weeks. Like I said when I talked to you guys last week, I feel like I've continued to progress and the knee continues to feel better. It felt good out there today.
"It feels more like normal. You're able to come out here and not think about it, and I really feel like that's the stage I'm getting to where I don't really think about it anymore … The more I'm out there, the more comfortable I get."
The media members assembled at mini-camp have obviously been keeping a close eye on Bradford during his first few weeks on the field, but one aspect of his recovery that isn't noticeable to the naked eye is his comfort level, an aspect of his game that has increased with each and every rep that Bradford takes.
"You guys have probably seen the progress from the time that you've been out here, but I just feel more comfortable dropping back," Bradford said. "When I first got out here, I was about a half-count slow. I feel like I've kind of worked myself back to as close to game speed as I can get it right now. Overall, I just feel more comfortable with me knee. I trust it more, it's not as sore, and overall I just feel better."
While it's clear that he's been able to do more on-field drills as the weeks have progressed, there's also a lot of progress going on behind the scenes.
"We're past doing just the weight room and the training room stuff," Bradford said. "Now it's more getting on the field and working through some different drills, continuing to throw and continuing to do sports specific stuff."
After the Eagles wrap up their three-day mini-camp on Thursday, the players won't take the practice field again until August 2, the first day of Training Camp. Between now and then, Bradford will continue to be around the NovaCare Complex in order to rehab, with hopes of being full-go by the time Training Camp begins.
"I'm going to be around here most of the time," said Bradford. "We sat down a little bit last week with the strength staff and the training staff and kind of put together a plan. I think it's five and a half or six weeks from the time we leave Thursday to when we get back, so I plan on sticking around here and continuing to work.
"When Training Camp comes around and I'm hopefully able to get out there for every snap, then I think things will really come together, but for the most part I feel really good about where I am right now."
- Sam Bradford. No news is good news for Bradford these days, who is continuing to slowly recover from the torn ACL that cost him all of last season. Bradford once again took part in seven-on-seven drills, but sat out the full team 11-on-11 session. Bradford looked sharp on Wednesday, hitting tight end Zach Ertz down the sideline for what looked like a 20-yard gain. Bradford has been targeting Ertz frequently during these minicamps and OTAs, and that should continue into the season.
- Speaking of the offensive line, the Redskins utilized the same “first group” as they did in OTAs last week: Tom Compton at left tackle, Shaw Lauvao at left guard, Kory Lichtensteiger at center, Spencer Long at right guard and Brandon Scherff at right tackle. Trent Williams continues to rehab his ankle, and is expected to return during training camp.
- [Lions] Jeremy Ross, Abdullah, TJ Jones, Ryan Broyles, Lance Moore, Golden Tate and Quandre Diggs all spent time returning either punts or kickoffs in OTAs.
Ross has held down both jobs for the last year and a half, and he’s not going to give up either duty without a fight, but this appears to be an open competition for the return duties.
Who gets reps and how many over the next three days might give us an indication of how many players are real contenders to win the return duties in camp.
- Vikings Roundup, 6/16: Right Guard Reps
Posted 17 hours ago
Craig Peters
Vikings.com
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Tyrus Thompson has been focused on getting his career off the ground, but a flight at 5 p.m. Thursday is in the back of his mind.
Hours after the Vikings mandatory minicamp wraps, the rookie will be headed to see his wife of three years and their two children, ending the longest amount of time he’s spent away from his family.
“It’s going to be great,” Thompson said. “I love those kids.”
Thompson arrived in Minnesota for a rookie minicamp a week after he was selected in the sixth round. We asked how he’s different as a person and player from when he arrived in early May.
“As a person, I’m the same guy,” Thompson said. “I’ve got a little more money in my pockets than I’ve ever had. It’s been a great learning experience, just learning from these guys and living out the dream I’ve had since I was a little kid.”
Part of Thompson’s dream becoming a reality is playing some the past two weeks at right guard after playing left and right tackle at Oklahoma. Thompson worked at second-string left tackle earlier during the Vikings offseason program, a time that he said allows coaches to evaluate “what we can do, where we can be valuable.”
“I think it’s a great opportunity for me right now at that right guard spot, especially with trying to get on the field right now,” Thompson said. “There’s no pride in ‘I’m a tackle or all that stuff.’ It’s I want to get on the field and play.”
He said he’s never played guard, but added with a laugh and smile, “there was a time when I had never played tackle, either.”
He showed media savvy when asked where he’s more comfortable by saying “offensive line.”
Fellow rookie T.J. Clemmings, the fourth-round pick who played right tackle for two seasons at Pittsburgh after switching from defense to offense, had never played guard until joining the Vikings, either.
Clemmings opened the offseason training activity practices at right guard with the first team after the Vikings opted to slide Brandon Fusco to left guard. Clemmings worked at right tackle Tuesday, with Mike Harris filling in for Phil Loadholt with the first team. Seventh-round pick Austin Shepherd and potential defense-to-offense convert Isame Faciane also had snaps at right guard.
Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer said it will be easier to evaluate offensive line play when training camp opens next month.
“It’s so difficult without the pads on to really know, because we’re taking care of each other upfront,” Zimmer said. “We’re not trying to do anything, so the evaluation part is just difficult for me at this point in time. I mean, you can see balance and body movement and things like that. I feel good about a lot of those things, but the tenacity and the physicality and those things, we’re going to have to wait until we get to camp.”
Thompson said the offseason program has provided a “fun and exciting” learning opportunity from veterans like Loadholt and center John Sullivan.
“It’s almost like having two coaches right there beside you so they’ve been helping me out,” Thompson said. “When I go in the locker room (after the interview), I’m going to ask them about some of the stuff we did, make sure I didn’t make any mistakes and try to clean up stuff the best I can to help us win a Super Bowl.”
- The [Vikings] right guard spot is still rookie Tyrus Thompson's, for now. Fellow rookie T.J. Clemmings assumed that spot at the start of OTAs, which ended last week. He's now at right tackle with the second team. Second-year guard David Yankey got a few looks at left guard when Fusco was held back.
- [Vikings] Josh Robinson, Casey Matthews, Captain Munnerlyn, DeMarcus Van Dyke and Michael Mauti did not practice on Tuesday. Anthony Barr, Brian Robison and Phil Loadholt were held out of team drills.
- Peterson: ‘totally different mindset’ this season
Posted 13 hours ago
Craig Peters
vikings.com
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Adrian Peterson told Voice of the Vikings Paul Allen he’s “stronger, faster, a smarter player, more calm and relaxed” on Tuesday when asked what is different about his game at this stage of an accomplished career.
“I just have a totally different mindset going into this season for sure, but, you know, just matured a lot in all areas,” Peterson said in an interview that was posted to Vikings.com this morning. The audio will open Allen’s 9 to Noon show on KFAN Wednesday.
Peterson is preparing for his ninth pro season. He has 10,190 career rushing yards, a 2012 NFL MVP title, six Pro Bowls and three All-Pro selections but said he missed his teammates the most in 2014 when he sat out all but one game.
“I kind of felt like I let those guys down. … That was the toughest part, sitting at home and watching those guys kind of struggle,” Peterson said.
The franchise leader in rushing rejoined Vikings at Winter Park two weeks ago and has made it clear he believes the Vikings can build off a 7-9 mark in 2014 and accomplish great things. Reasons for that notion include potential he saw from Teddy Bridgewater from afar last season, his belief in Vikings coaches and the offseason addition of receiver Mike Wallace.
“AP” told “PA” that Bridgewater is “a little more primed” this year.
“He got a year under his belt where he really wasn’t, you know, they were stacking the box and bringing a lot of pressure, so I think this year, it’s going to be a lot easier for him to go out and do what he does,” Peterson said. “He’s still a sharp young man. He’s eager and hungry to learn more and improve his game, and with that mentality and talent he has, the sky is the limit for him.”
A widespread smile beamed through Bridgewater’s facemask the first time he turned and handed the ball to Peterson, and the two have been developing their timing and exchanges. They’re also working together in the passing game, where the Vikings have lined up Peterson at multiple spots on the field and had him run routes or as a check-down option.
Peterson told Allen he’s been impressed by Bridgewater’s ability to survey all of his options on a play and make good decisions with the football.
“The biggest thing and what stands out the most to me is his ability to see the field,” Peterson said. “He’s not a guy that just locks in on one side. He’s able to read his reads and get back to the backside if needed or check the ball down, and you normally don’t see that with a first-year quarterback.”
The Vikings are scheduled to have two more days of minicamp this week before breaking until July 25 when they report for the 50th training camp at Minnesota State University, Mankato to resume working on the team’s goals.
“I feel like we have great potential, we have great talent and I feel like the sky is the limit for us,” Peterson said. “It’s really about us as a team putting in the effort and putting in the time to get there, but we have what it takes to make it into the playoffs and give ourselves a chance.”
- [Falcons] RBs Coleman and Devonta Freeman will continue to push each other, as will those vying for playing time at left guard — namely Chris Chester and Mike Person.
- Chris Chester, signed earlier this month as a free agent, is the leading candidate to win the [Falcons] left guard job.
- [Panthers] A disappointing week at the Senior Bowl pushed Daryl Williams just outside of the top 100 picks and I believe he'll ultimately outplay this position, perhaps even winning the starting right tackle role as a rookie.
- [Panthers] Defensive ends Charles Johnson and Frank Alexander spent most of the day on the exercise bikes after both suffered strain groins recently. Rivera was more optimistic about getting Johnson on the field at least one day this week, and he indicated it’d be a stretch to see Alexander back on the field.
- What We've Learned: The Panthers have found their replacement for Greg Hardy
The Carolina defense fell off quite a bit last season in the wake of defensive end Greg Hardy's season-long absence. They missed his presence on the field, to be sure, but his cloud of off-field issues didn't help matters.
Frank Alexander's less-publicized absence was a big issue, too—the talented defensive end missed the first 14 games because of his own suspension.
Alexander is back, and he's wrecking OTAs. The fourth-year pass-rusher has been hailed as an offseason MVP, according to Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer. That comes a year after head coach Ron Rivera said the same of Alexander.
If Alexander can stay out of trouble, he'll make Panthers fans forget about Hardy rather quickly.
- Opportunity to earn redemption
Published Wednesday, June 17, 2015 12:44 pm
by Ashley Mahoney
Opportunity doesn’t always knock a second time.
After what could have been the end of a brief NFL career, Frank Alexander has one season left on his rookie contract—just enough time to prove his worth as Carolina Panthers defensive end.
“Every day, before I go out to the field and start stretching, I get on my knees and I say a prayer thanking God for the opportunity, again, to be out there,” Alexander said. “We all know last year my dream could have been taken away from me. I’m 25 going on 26. I feel like I have to establish my own relationship with God. I can’t live off of my mom and dad’s prayers.”
After twice testing positive for marijuana in 2014, the league suspended Alexander for 14 games. He saw action in the regular season finale in Atlanta, posting one tackle. “It’s like a make or break year for me,” said Alexander. “I have to make this season count. Nothing’s ever been handed to me. I’ve always had to work, so I’m used to doing it. That’s what everybody dreams of—becoming a starter. You don’t just get to the NFL and just want to be a backup your whole career.”
With the departure of defensive end Greg Hardy to Dallas, Alexander has the chance to establish himself as a starter for the Panthers.
“You’ve just got to go out there and earn it,” said Alexander. “Every snap, every practice, you’ve gotta go out there and leave it on the field. You can’t take [anything] off the field. Once you leave it on the field, and you know you gave it your all that’s all you can control. Everything else is going to fall in line. That’s how I’d like to think about it—I just go out there and do the necessary things that I need to do to set myself apart so that the coaches say, ‘OK, we can trust Frank Alexander as a starter.’”
In his rookie season, Alexander started three of 16 games he played in, posting 18 tackles (10 solo), 2.5 sacks, three passes defensed, and two fumble recoveries. It was a dream come true for Alexander, who grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
“Ever since I was a little boy, I always wanted to be the best at it. I used to go to [elementary] school with a football…I didn’t even carry my books there,” he said. “I had my football with me. It’s been like that since day one. My mom and my pops they got me the NFL helmet, the jersey, and the pants, so I had a [hall of fame running back] Barry Sanders one. I wore that Barry Sanders outfit almost every day.”
In 2013, he started three of his 12 games. He tallied 15 tackles (nine solo), a sack, two passes defensed and fumble recovery.
“On the field I’m different, I’m different than I am in person,” said Alexander about his style of play. “In person, I care about people in their situations. I like to help out wherever I can. On the field, I’m a different person. You’ve got to get in the zone to play this game. I try to be disruptive…strong…not thinking about it, just going hard, just reading and reacting. I just like to go out there and play hard. Just give it my all.”
A 2013 breast cancer diagnosis for Alexander’s mother, Juanita and father Frank’s open-heart surgery triggered a downward spiral that resulted in the positive drug tests. Both have recovered, but Alexander struggled to cope. “Once you hear anything about your mom you already just think the worst,” said Alexander.
“When I heard breast cancer I just thought the worst of the worst. I’m just glad to see her doing well.”
June 11 marked Juanita’s one-year anniversary cancer free. While that period proved trying for Alexander, it inspired the birth of his nonprofit, Alexander’s Helping Hands to raise awareness for breast and other types of cancer. “When it hit close to home, you try to find out any information that you can about it to try to help out with other people who are going through the same thing,” said Alexander.
“My mama was fortunate and blessed to be a survivor. With her knowledge and my knowledge going together, we can help out around the community where a lot of people don’t know about these types of things.”
The compassion stems from Alexander’s football background. “That’s what you learn from playing football. From a young age, you learn that it’s not about you,” he said. “It’s a team sport. You’re just one person. It takes a team to win. That’s how I feel with me and my mom. She knows what she knows, because she went through it. I feel like we’ll be a good team.”
- The [Saints] punt return team was very deep on Tuesday afternoon. Wide receivers Brandon Cooks, Josh Morgan and Jalen Saunders, running backs C.J. Spiller and Marcus Murphy as well as safety Jairus Byrd all took time field punts.
- [Bucs QB] Jameis Winston has a mentor. It’s three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Gerald McCoy, who already has weighed in with his first few words of advice for the Buccaneers’ rookie quarterback.
“Lay low,” Winston said with a laugh.
McCoy has separated himself in an effort to help Winston mature. So has wide receiver Vincent Jackson and center Evan Smith. But McCoy has made the greatest effort to help, Winston said.
“He’s just such a good guy,” Winston said of McCoy. “He’s always looking to help me in any way. It’s good to have a big-time guy like that to take the time out to try to mentor a young guy like me.”
