May 16th Blog

Incredible title, eh? Anywho, not much happening in the NFL world today, but here are some nuggets to ponder:

-> The Falcons have apparently opened contract talks with 3rd overall pick QB Matt Ryan. Ryan is likely to make somewhere in the neighbourhood of $25-30 million guarenteed, and could possibly make more than 1st overall pick Jake Long. The reason for this, he is a quarterback, and they are "worth more" than lineman. That being said, Ryan looks like the real deal, and the Falcons would be well served to get him locked up before training camp. They look to avoid a hold out, which plagued the rookie seasons of last year's first round QBs Jamarcus Russell and Brady Quinn.
-> The Ravens are also trying to lock up their rookie QB Joe Flacco, for the same reasons. Flacco's strong arm and good size will come in handy, and look for him to push Kyle Boller for the starting job right away.
-> Bucs QB Jeff Garcia has said that he might skip mandatory practises in order to get a contract extension with the Bucs. Now, I for one don't think this is in his best interests. Yes, he is an effective starter. Yes, he took them from worst-to-first last season. Yes, he deserves to be compensated for this. But, the guy is 38, and has two years left on his current deal. Now, unless he thinks he is Chris Chelios (hockey reference), he had better consider going to practice and keeping his starting job. The Bucs have a plethora of talented QBs on the roster, and may not hesitate to unload Garcia if he fails to cooperate.
-> On another QB note, the Jets may have a new starter on opening day this season. Word is that Kellen Clemons might have the inside track to the starting job this year. The third year pro has primarily backed up Chad Pennington, but did start a few games last year. Now, was I the only one that thought he looked nor-so-good in his starts last year? Maybe they think with an improved offense around him, they can get some good quality play. Hmmm. But I suppose anything is better than two-shoulder-surgeries-on-his-throwing-shoulder Pennington, who I thought should've been benched a long time ago.
-> Dolphins RB Ricky Williams says he wishes to play two more seasons in the NFL. He has one year left on his current deal, and will have to see if he can get back to form in that time. He is slated to be a back up for Ronnie Brown, and the 'phins are unsure how much he will play.
-> Lofty expectations. For whom? Vikings RB Adrian Peterson says he will greatly improve upon his numbers from his outstanding rookie season, and says his goal is 2000 yards. Now, don't get me wrong, but I think that is a bit much. He is talented and 1500 yards wouldn't be a stretch. But, considering only a handful of backs have ever reached 2000, this doesn't seem likely. But good luck to Adrian and I wish him the best....but keep dreamin' pal.
-> Finally, another pointless update on Mr Strahan. Apparently the fossilized defensive end is asking for about $8 million to come back for next season, but hasn't officially made his decision yet. The Giants have to set a deadline on this one, or cut ties with Strahan altogether.
Until next time...

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