Clock Ticks on Culpepper

For a guy so eager to file a grievance case against the Miami Dolphins, Daunte Culpepper's hearing date has been postponed again. This time not for a day, but for 15 of them. The new date, July 18th, is within two weeks of the opening days of training camp. With such a late hearing, Culpepper will have less time to work out a deal with his future team and prepare for the season.

Culpepper filed the grievance in hope that he would be released from his contract and made a free agent. Through the NFLPA, Culpepper and the Miami Dolphins agreed to a hearing, which was previously scheduled for Friday. After a postponement due to flight cancellations, due to bad weather, the hearing was once again postponed today. The postponement occurred today, but the hearing was scheduled for Tuesday, a day both sides thought would work out. But when the dust settled, the sides simply could not come together on Tuesday. The two sides then agreed on the new date.

"Every day the hearing is postponed is a day in which [Culpepper] misses the opportunity to be a free agent," noted NFLPA general counsel Richard Berthelsen, who is to represent the quarterback in the grievance action, before the latest delay. "Time becomes an issue."

Culpepper, the eight year veteran, will represent himself as his own agent, and testify in the hearings. The arbitrator in the hearing, John Freeick, was also the arbitrator last season in the grievance filed by Steve McNair against the Tennessee Titans. McNair had been barred from the Titans facilities, but two weeks after the hearing, Freeick forced the Titans to allow the veteran quarterback to use their training facilities. Shortly after the ruling, the Titans traded McNair to the Baltimore Ravens.

The situation will Culpepper appears to be somewhat different. Culpepper is allowed to further is knee rehabilitation in the Dolphins facilities. Similarly to the Titans, the Dolphins have stated they will not release Culpepper, but they will continue trade talks, with the Jacksonville Jaguars among others, interested in the quarterback. However, the Jaguars, who appear to be the most interested in Culpepper, have said they will only pursue him through free agency.

The Dolphins, throughout mini-camp, did not allow Culpepper to practice, for fear he could reinjure himself, causing contract controversy. Upset with the Dolphins franchise, Culpepper turned to the NFLPA for help. Culpepper wanted to be released, because in a trade, his contract would most likely have to be reconstructed, something Culpepper is not willing to do.

Three days after the NFLPA intervened, the union filed a grievance against the Dolphins. The hearing date was set soon after, but was postponed. The rest is history. Culpepper, 30, will not be traded. If the arbitrator somehow rules in favor of the Dolphins, who of course declined to comment, the 1999 first round pick may remain on the team through training camp until a trade is completed.

Brandon

This Day in NFL History

Another new segment on the blog will be "This Day in NFL History." Whenever I feel there are events worthy, I will publish the post.

1934 - NFL's Portsmouth Spartans become Detroit Lions

1965 - NFL grants Atlanta Falcons a franchise

1984 - Longest pro football game, LA Express beats Mich Panthers 27-21 in USFL playoffs, games lasts 93 minutes 33 seconds

Brandon

Birthdays in the NFL

Miles Austin, 6/30/1984

Marlin Jackson, 06/30/1983

Travis Minor, 06/30/1979

Jerrell Pippens, 06/30/1980

Ben Utecht, 6/30/1981

James Wilhoit, 06/30/1982

Tank Williams, 6/30/1980 - Unemployed on your birthday. Ever thought you would Tank that far?

Brandon

Fantasy Football Rankings: Gridiron Gurus Top 150

With hours and hours of research under my belt, from the top fantasy experts, I myself have created a secret formula to rank my top 150. It is a top 150 full of surprises. At times, the secret formula even surprised myself. However, through the hours of work, the top 150 is here, but it is subject to change.

Rank Name Pos Team

1 LaDainian Tomlinson RB Chargers

2 Steven Jackson RB Rams

3 Larry Johnson RB Chiefs

4 Shaun Alexander RB Seahawks

5 Frank Gore RB 49ers

6 Joseph Addai RB Colts

7 Willie Parker RB Steelers

8 Peyton Manning QB Colts

9 Brian Westbrook RB Eagles

10 Rudi Johnson RB Bengals

11 Laurence Maroney RB Patriots

12 Ronnie Brown RB Dolphins

13 Willis McGahee RB Ravens

14 Reggie Bush RB Saints

15 Steve Smith WR Panthers

16 Marvin Harrison WR Colts

17 Travis Henry RB Broncos

18 Carson Palmer QB Bengals

19 Maurice Jones-Drew RB Jaguars

20 Deuce McAllister RB Saints

21 Chad Johnson WR Bengals

22 Cedric Benson RB Bears

23 Torry Holt WR Rams

24 Edgerrin James RB Cardinals

25 Clinton Portis RB Redskins

26 Tom Brady QB Patriots

27 Thomas Jones RB Jets

28 Drew Brees QB Saints

29 Marion Barber III RB Cowboys

30 Reggie Wayne WR Colts

31 Terrell Owens WR Cowboys

32 Marshawn Lynch RB Bills

33 Brandon Jacobs RB Giants

34 Larry Fitzgerald WR Cardinals

35 Marc Bulger QB Rams

36 Roy Williams WR Lions

37 Antonio Gates TE Chargers

38 T.J. Houshmandzadeh WR Bengals

39 Ahman Green RB Texans

40 Anquan Boldin WR Cardinals

41 Donovan McNabb QB Eagles

42 Javon Walker WR Broncos

43 Jamal Lewis RB Browns

44 Carnell Williams RB Buccaneers

45 Marques Colston TE Saints

46 Donald Driver WR Packers

47 Lee Evans WR Bills

48 Randy Moss WR Patriots

49 Andre Johnson WR Texans

50 Plaxico Burress WR Giants

51 Tony Gonzalez TE Chiefs

52 Hines Ward WR Steelers

53 Adrian Peterson RB Vikings

54 Chester Taylor RB Vikings

55 Warrick Dunn RB Falcons

56 Matt Hasselbeck QB Seahawks

57 Fred Taylor RB Jaguars

58 Laveranues Coles WR Jets

59 Vince Young QB Titans

60 Jeremy Shockey TE Giants

61 Michael Vick QB Falcons

62 Darrell Jackson WR 49ers

63 DeAngelo Williams RB Panthers

64 Julius Jones RB Cowboys

65 Santana Moss WR Redskins

66 Reggie Brown WR Eagles

67 Todd Heap TE Ravens

68 Joey Galloway WR Buccaneers

69 Ladell Betts RB Redskins

70 Terry Glenn WR Cowboys

71 Jerious Norwood RB Falcons

72 Alge Crumpler TE Falcons

73 Mark Clayton WR Ravens

74 Philip Rivers QB Chargers

75 Braylon Edwards WR Browns

76 LaMont Jordan RB Raiders

77 Jerricho Cotchery WR Jets

78 Deion Branch WR Seahawks

79 Chris Chambers WR Dolphins

80 Chris Cooley TE Redskins

81 Tony Romo QB Cowboys

82 Vernand Morency RB Packers

83 Kellen Winslow TE Browns

84 Vincent Jackson WR Chargers

85 DeShaun Foster RB Panthers

86 Vernon Davis TE 49ers

87 Jon Kitna QB Lions

88 LenDale White RB Titans

89 Kevin Jones RB Lions

90 Donte' Stallworth WR Patriots

91 Matt Leinart QB Cardinals

92 Bernard Berrian WR Bears

93 Brandon Jackson RB Packers

94 Chris Henry WR Bengals

95 Ravens D/ST D/ST Ravens

96 Benjamin Watson TE Patriots

97 Greg JenningsWR Packers

98 Eli Manning QB Giants

99 L.J. Smith TE Eagles

100 Dominic Rhodes RB Raiders

101 Santonio HolmesWR Steelers

102 D.J. Hackett WR Seahawks

103 Devery Henderson WR Saints

104 Kevin Curtis WR Eagles

105 Ben Roethlisberger QB Steelers

106 Michael Turner RB Chargers

107 Reuben Droughns RB Giants

108 Mike Bell RB Broncos

109 Joe Horn WR Falcons

110 Jerry Porter WR Raiders

111 Jason Witten TE Cowboys

112 Isaac Bruce WR Rams

113 Calvin Johnson WR Lions

114 Matt Jones WR Jaguars

115 Muhsin Muhammad WR Bears

116 Heath Miller TE Steelers

117 Bears D/ST D/ST Bears

118 Eddie Kennison WR Chiefs

119 Derick Mason WR Ravens

120 Jay Cutler QB Broncos

121 Brett Favre QB Packers

122 Anthony Thomas RB Bills

123 Ronald Curry WRRaiders

124 Mike Furrey WRLions

125 Patriots D/ST D/ST Patriots

126 Jake Delhomme QB Panthers

127 Randy McMichael TE Rams

128 Chad Pennington QB Jets

129 Tatum Bell RB Lions

130 Reggie Williams WR Jaguars

131 Leon Washington RB Jets

132 Ernest Wilford WR Jaguars

133 Alex Smith QB 49ers

134 Drew Carter WR Panthers

135 Daniel Graham TE Broncos

136 Drew Bennett WR Rams

137 Chris Brown RB Titans

138 Chargers D/ST D/ST Chargers

139 Jaguars D/ST D/ST Jaguars

140 Jason Campbell QB Redskins

141 Matt Schaub QB Texans

142 Dallas Clark TE Colts

143 J.P. Losman QB Bills

144 Rex Grossman QB Bears

145 Jeff Garcia QB Buccaneers

146 Steve McNair QB Ravens

147 JaMarcus Russell QB Raiders

148 Trent Green QB Dolphins

149 Byron Leftwich QB Jaguars

150 Brady Quinn QB Browns

There you have it! Just check here on draft day for the Gridiron Gurus top 150 and you will be guaranteed to win your league!

Next up: Position by Position Rankings

Brandon

Birthday in the NFL

Only one person is getting too old today. Just one person not excited about their birthday.


Montae Reagor
06/29/1977

Brandon

NFL Europa Officially Over

The league announced today that the 15-year attempt at an international league is over. This had been reported earlier on site, so no further explanation needed.

Brandon

2K8 All Pro Football

WIth Madden having all right to NFL video games, it took a creative mind of the 2K Sports company to come up with their own football video games. The graphics here look extremely realistic, however no real colors or logos are used, I am not even sure about what players are in this game.



Brandon

Fantasy Football!

Over the past few days, along with the new logo, I have been putting hours and hours of research into something very special. Using my secret formula, I have compiled my own fantasy football top 150. My Gridiron Gurus top 150 should be posted sometime tomorrow! Look for it!



Brandon

Concussion Commercial

Gridiron Gurus did not discuss any of what is a new policy having to do with concussions. I feel somewhat bad about it, so an NFL site showed me this commercial. It just may make up for the lack of coverage.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPRscxQZs8E

Brandon

With NFL Europa Dying, A New Idea is Born

In just about every popular sport, there is something of a minor league. Whether it be in NBADL, or any of the minor league baseball levels, or even the hockey minor leagues, every major sport has a minor league, minus NFL. Well that all may now change.

The idea of an NFL minor league was first proposed in 2004 by an agent by the name of Ron Del Duca. The idea was simply overlooked, but three years have passed since the initial proposal, and the idea is catching on. Word around the league is that many NFL management types are very interested in an NFL minor league.

The basic idea of the league is that instead of members of a team's practice squad doing nothing while waiting for their chance, they could spend their time in the minors. The players would still participate in the offseason workouts, but midseason instead of walking the sidelines in street clothes, they could get action in the minors.

The minor league teams would be located in cities without NFL teams. Every NFL team would place its eight man practice squad somewhere in the minor league system. The practice squad players make up a league of 256 players, add that with guys still trying to hack it in the NFL, or NFL Europa guys, and you now have a minor league system.

The plan is for the games to be played in the fall, during the NFL season, but in the middle of the week, with Tuesday and Wednesday being the targeted days. Eight teams appears to be the magic number.

Other than an overall approval from the league, the only thing stopping an NFL minor league is the development of the UFL. Not only would this be a league that takes place at the same time, it would also take away many players from the minors who would rather showcase their skills in the UFL.

The bottom line is that the creation of an NFL minor league is a brilliant idea, but until the UFL goes away, do not expect a minor league. So with the track record of league attempts in the past, expect the start of an NFL minor league within the next five years.

Brandon

Fred is Freed

Just days after his second arrest this year, the Miami Dolphins have let go of their young defensive tackle. Fred Evans was released earlier today according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Of course we all saw it coming, as Dolphins Head Coach Cam Cameron immediately responded to the arrest with a statement all but releasing the defensive tackle.

Evans' agent, famous Drew Rosenhaus, couldn't talk his way out of this one. No one could have. The young defensive tackle's fate had already been decided. You know the story. Evans pleads guilty to marijuana possession early in the year. Saturday Evans is arrested with multiple charges including taking a chapter out of the Pacman Jones book when biting a police officer.

Brandon

Your Chance to be a Gridiron Guru

Don't miss it! It is your once and a lifetime opportunity to write for one of the blogger worlds up and coming blogs. With a money making feature coming, you can make all the money off the blog for an entire month! Plus, if I am satisfied with your work, I may pull off that interim tag and make you an official Gridiron Guru writer! Leave a comment here if you're interested!

Brandon

Birthdays in the NFL

Happy Birthday! It's another rendition of "Birthdays in the NFL."


Oshiomogho Atogwe - huh?
06/23/1981
Matt Chatham
06/28/1977
Therrian Fontenot
06/28/1981
Randy McMichael
06/28/1979
Robert Pollard
06/28/1981

Brandon

Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good Night NFL Europa

The NFL had been rumored to end NFL Europa for months now. The supposed "secret" was leaked today, when a league source came out and said that it was over. The 15-year attempt to bring NFL to Europe has failed.

It appears, after the third attempt at expanding football outside the United State, that the only football Europeans want to watch is futbol. It just seems that football will never be better than futbol.

Even if football is America's sport now, which I think it is with all the steroid and money issues in baseball, no sport will ever take over a world that is dominated by soccer. Why that is? Well, that could start a huge argument, so we will stay away from how much better football is than soccer.

Brandon

The New Logo

For the past few days, I have been working on a secret project with Emmy computer design man Adam Lorber. We, together, have created a filthy (filthy: totally amazing, jaw dropping, greatest thing since pigskin) logo that features the Gridiron Gurus.

The background is a football field, exactly as it should appear. In the right endzone we have written "Gridiron" with "Gurus" in the left (Update: I guess I don't know my left from my right as it turns out I was wrong, switch those two around and you get the right order.) In the center of the field is a blue shield, a mock NFL shield. The use of the NFL shield is illegal, so we made our own. To top it off, we have Gridiron Gurus written across it all with our newly adopted slogan "All NFL. All The Time." beneath it. Once again, hats off to Adam Lorber on a job extremely well done.

Brandon

Ditka's Ex NFL Crew vs. NFL

The congressional hearings between the two parties are starting to get ugly. For all the information, click the linked title. A video appears on the page, along with the updates on the Congressional hearings by ESPN.Com.

Clearly I am not interested in this topic. I think it is a useless battle. It is evident that retired NFL players aren't getting the benefits they need. I am on the side of the Ex-NFL players. I think Roger Goodell and Gene Upshaw understand they are wrong as well, because they didn't even show up at the hearings.

Brandon

Birthdays in the NFL

Happy Birthday to..


Juran Bolden
06/27/1974
Craig Terrill
06/27/1980

Brandon

Tanking to Dallas?

Of the many teams interested in suspended Defensive Tackle Tank Johnson, the Dallas Cowboys seem to be a "perfect fit." That is what a Dallas Cowboys official told Matt Mosley of ESPN's Hashmarks blog. Apparently, Tank Johnson would be the perfect fit for the Cowboys 3-4 defensive scheme.

It appears that the Cowboys like Tank's versatility, as he has played his entire career in a 4-3 defense. Mosley also says the Cowboys like Tank at any defensive end spot. Mosley also mentioned that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has no problems rolling the dice on troubled players.

Versatile. That adjective definitely describes Tank Johnson. He was the fastest defensive tackle in the 2004 draft, running a 4.69 40 yard dash. The talent and versatility that Tank Johnson offers will be hard for many teams to pass up, but something not hard to pass up is his eight game suspension, in danger of being lengthened by his most recent arrest.

Brandon

A Gridiron Guru Departs

The Gridiron Gurus have suddenly become the Gridiron Guru. The other member of the team, Jules, left the blog tonight. The reasons are personal, however I welcome the opportunity to blog by myself. So from now on, think of it as the Gridiron Guru.

Brandon

Evans Was Already On Probation

The recently arrested Miami Dolphins Defensive Tackle was already on probation when he was arrested Saturday for taking a chapter out of the Pacman Jones book on a cop. It gets worse for Fred Evans, much worse.

The following information is almost useless, as Miami Dolphins Head Coach Cam Cameron already implied the fact that Evans will not be wearing a Dolphins uniform next year. So, if being out of a job isn't enough, it turns out Fred Evans was on probation. Evans was on probation after being busted for marijuana use in February. He was on a years probation, a time that had far from passed. One now must imagine his career is over.

Brandon

Life Gets No Easier For "Pacman" Jones

Just three days after his surrender to Las Vegas police and the announcement of numerous charges against him, another blip has appeared on Pacman's radar. The Las Vegas strip club bouncer, who was shot and said Pacman bit his ankle, is now suing of oft-troubled defensive back, if he still deserves that title.

The amount that Aaron Cudworth, the bouncer, sued Jones for is unknown. However, it just adds to the long list of legal troubles coming up in the near future for Pacman.

Brandon

Birthdays in the NFL

Happy Birthday gentleman!

Chad Clifton, 06/26/1976
Jerome Mathis, 06/26/1983
Chad Pennington, 06/26/1976
Chester Pitts, 06/26/1979
Josh Thomas, 6/26/1981
Michael Vick, 06/26/1980

I wonder what Michael Vick is going to get on his birthday? Maybe, he will get a surprise knock on the door, and Vick will be greeted with a police officer stating, "You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be held against you in the court of law..."

Brandon

Bill Cowher's Future

Believe it or not, the world may see the "Big Frown" back on the sideline next year. Rumors out of Washington suggest that if the Redskins suffer another disappointing season under Hall of Fame Coach Joe Gibbs, Owner Dan Snyder may offer Bill Cowher a contract he cannot refuse.

Can the Redskins seriously talk about firing the legend that is Joe Gibbs? After all he has done for that franchise, can the Redskins disrespect Gibbs to the point of firing him? You would think that winning three Super Bowls and four NFC Championships would warrant him the job for life.

If the Redskins fire Job Gibbs after a disappointing season, shame on them. Whatever happened to respecting your elders? Joe Gibbs is one of the best men to ever coach the game, the firing of him is unthinkable. If he retires to stick to NASCAR, fine, but firing him, how dare the Redskins consider that.

Brandon

Bears Making Headlines

Well, apparently the Chicago Bears didn't get enough excitement about cutting defensive tackle Tank Johnson, so they decided to make the front page news again. On this special day, the Bears extended the contract of Pro Bowl Cornerback Nathan Vasher an extra five years. The current deal was set to expire following the 2007 season. Also in that deal, Vasher was set to make just $850,000.

Vasher, a fourth round draft pick in 2004, felt he deserved a little more cash than that. The Bears delivered. According to Adam Schefter of NFL Network, the Bears and Nathan Vasher agreed to a five year extension worth $28 million, with $14 million in guaranteed money. Schefter is also reporting that Charles Tillman is next on the Bears extension list. Tillman was a second round pick in 2003, and his contract is also set to expire March of 2008.

Brandon

Birthdays in the NFL

Today marks the beginning of a daily segment on Gridiron Gurus. That segment is birthdays in the NFL. So, to kick it off, we still start with today's birthdays.


William Bartee
06/25/1977
Adrian Dingle
06/25/1977
Matt Schaub
06/25/1981
Brandon Sharp
06/25/1985
Marcus Stroud
06/25/1978

Happy Birthday gentleman!

Brandon

The "Tank" Has Officially Exploded

Finally, after numerous blows to the "Tank," the Chicago Bears finally let the big boy loose. This coming just three days after his most recent arrest for drunken driving. The Chicago Bears addressed the situation up front.

Here is what Bears GM Jerry Angelo had to say: "We are upset and embarrassed by Tank's actions last week. He compromised the credibility of our organization. We made it clear to him that he had no room for error. Our goal was to help someone through a difficult period in his life, but the effort needs to come from both sides. It didn't, and we have decided to move on." Johnson was apparently given the zero tolerance policy, a policy which he ignored. Good move by the Chicago Bears, they gave Johnson his chances, but he blew them one by one.

The Bears front office, coaches, and players all tried to help the young defensive lineman get his life and career back on track, so says Bears Head Coach Lovie Smith. "A lot of people within our organization gave extra time and energy to support Tank: players, coaches and our front office. We did our best to establish an environment for him to move forward. Ultimately, Tank needed to live up to his side of the deal." Clearly, he did not.

Now the Bears must find a replacement for a defensive tackle who's extraordinary talents are often overshadowed by his immature and stupid behavior off the field. However, one must believe that the Bears were planning for life without Tank, as he was already handed down a suspension for the first eight games of the season by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Tank Johnson was a second round pick in the 2004 NFL Draft. He was under contract through the year 2008. Once he clears waivers, if he clears waivers, Johnson will become an unrestricted free agent. Wherever he winds up, Johnson will still have to serve the eight game suspension, plus any additional games added on to the current suspension due to the allegations of drunk driving. Which team will risk the baggage for his talent? Well, no one really knows as of yet, but one has to imagine the Cincinnati Bengals are licking their chops.

Brandon

Could Corey Dillion End Retirement Early?

Rumor around the National Football League is that the Packers are currently working to bring a big name play to Green Bay. This, after director of player development for Green Bay George Koonce shared this information with a Green Bay radio station.

Names such as Larry Johnson, who the Packers wanted to acquire on draft day, and Daunte Culpepper have been throw out there, but how about Corey Dillon? At age 33, Corey Dillon must still have some left in the tank. After a year in which he split time with rookie phenom Lawrence Maroney, he still managed to rush for 812 yards.

When Dillon asked for his release from the Patriots, the beast that is the media assumed retirement was his only path. However, the veteran running back had other things in mind, things such as being the featured back for an NFL team. What better place than Green Bay? The running back depth chart the Packers have is unimpressive to say the least. I may not be a Dillon fan, but I guarantee you at his old age he still is a better runner than Vernand Morency, the Packers #1 running back.

Could Corey Dillon join veteran, upset Brett Favre in the Packers offense? Well, if the Packers are true to the words of one George Koonce, then they may just have find their big name. There is no truth behind the words of Corey Dillon, but speculation like this always has a way of finding itself in the papers.

Brandon

Casey Bramlet Looking for a Promotion

Former Cincinnati Bengals Quarterback Casey Bramlet led the Hamburg Sea Devils to the NFL Europa World Bowl Championship.For his four touchdown performance, a record number of touchdown passes in World Bowl history, Bramlet was named the World Bowl XV MVP. Congratulations Casey.

Now, the NFL Europa star is looking for another chance in the National Football League. Bramlet is looking for a job with the Washington Redskins. The starter in Washington is Jason Campbell. Next on the depth chart, veteran Mark Brunell.

In order to win a roster spot, Bramlet will have to beat out draft picks Sam Hollenbach and Jordan Palmer, brother of Carson. Good luck Casey, you have no chance. Especially since Hollenbach and Palmer each have weeks in the Redskins offseason training program under their belt. If Bramlet doesn't beat the odds, he is likely going to try and repeat this past season's success. Do you believe in miracles? Let's hope Casey Bramlet believes in big miracles.

Brandon

Jon Kitna Called Into Radio Station Drunk

No, not really, but something must have been wrong with him to say, "I'll keep to myself what I think we actually will win, but it's more than 10 games." What? Jon Kitna said that? The future Hall of Fame Quarterback (cough, cough) uttered those words to a local radio station in Detroit.

"Teams have gone from 3-13, 4-12 and 5-11 to having great leaps, and we're the team to do it," Kitna added. Yes, teams have gone from the agony of defeat, to the thrill of victory, but none of them were stuck with Jon Kitna at quarterback.

Jon, I applaud you for having the utmost confidence in your team and your skills, but what I think you meant to say is, "I'll keep to myself what I think we actually will lose, but it's more than 10 games."

By the way Jon, please don't lead the Lions to ten or more wins, you will make me look very bad.


Brandon

Cleveland First Round Pick Ready to Hold Out

No, I am not talking about Brady Quinn, this time it's Wisconsin Offensive Lineman, third overall pick, Joe Thomas. The talk around the league has been of a probable hold out for one Brady Quinn, which is logical because he feels he deserves top 10 money even though he slid to #22. However, it is Joe Thomas who is also likely to be the holdout this time around. All this means is serious trouble for the Cleveland Frowns.

If Brady Quinn thinks he deserves money, then Joe Thomas should get pounds of gold. Just look at the previous third overall picks. Larry Fitzgerald, Braylon Edwards, and Vince Young. That's a strong group. Last year, Young got a deal with a total value of $58 million. This past offseason, the Dallas Cowboys agreed to a deal with former third round pick, offensive lineman Leonard Davis that was for 7 years $49 million, with a $16 million signing bonus.

This problem is spiraling out of control. Guys that have played as many downs in the NFL as I have, are getting more guaranteed money than NFL vets. It is somewhat crazy to think about that, because not all draft picks pan out. Chances are the one of this year's top five draft picks will be a bust, yet they will still be guaranteed millions of dollars.

This brings us back to the Joe Thomas hold out possibility. One has to assume that Thomas and his agent Peter Schaffer will have a lot to work with. All those facts I just shared with you, plus the fact that Joe Thomas is an insane blocker, adds up to a ton of cash, an amount that the Browns may not want to pay. The Browns looked very good on draft day with the ingenious moves they made, however, they are about to pay, literally, for two players who may one day be an average Joe like you and I.

Brandon

Larry Johnson and the Chiefs: The Unknown Part of the Story

Earlier this weekend it was reported that the Chiefs wanted to trade Larry Johnson, because they didn't want to pay him what he wanted. Sorry to scare you, but that isn't quite the beat to the song. Chiefs General Manager Carl Peterson played Larry Johnson and the media, and he most likely won his game.

When trade talks first arose, the most interested team was the Green Bay Packers. As a young rebuilding team, the Packers couldn't give up too many draft picks. Well, Peterson wanted a first, a second, and a third round pick. This asking price can be defined as ridiculous. Thomas Jones was traded to the Jets for a move up in the second round. In the Willis McGahee deal, the Ravens only gave up two thirds and a seventh for the running back. Now here is Carl Peterson asking for a first, a second, and a third? No way.

The truth is Carl Peterson has never wanted to trade Larry Johnson. Peterson threw out the idea for a different reason. He was smart enough to know that no teams would want to make that trade, or even could make that trade. Peterson was trying to send Larry a message, a message that said in big, colorful, bold letters, "No one is irreplaceable." It was a negotiating move of some sort, one that just may worked to perfection. Just like I said, Carl Peterson won the game.

What this further proves is that not only do the Chiefs not want to trade Johnson, they want to make a deal with Johnson locking up his future in Kansas City. A deal will get done, sometime by the end of August. Expect to see Larry Johnson back in that same old Chiefs uniform, and also expect to see the just-hand-it-to-Larry Johnson offense be a well oiled machine once again this season.

Brandon

Another Football Player Arrested

It is becoming what seems to be an everyday occurrence in the National Football League, something that when you wake up in the morning you expect to read in the newspaper. Like steroids in Major League Baseball, arrests have filled the headlines over the past year. Whether it is a Bengal, Tank, or Pacman, everyday an arrest seems to happen.

A string of 27 arrest free days was shattered over the weekend by three arrests. The latest of which, Miami Dolphins Defensive Tackle Fred Evans. According to CBS 4 in Miami, Evans was arrested early Saturday morning after an altercation with a taxi driver. What? A grown, NFL player gets into an argument with a taxi driver? Are you kidding me? Fred, you make more money this season than that guy may ever make in his life and look at yourself now.

When the cops arrived on the scene, brilliant Fred Evans refused to get out of the taxi cab. In return, the cop said to Fred, "Fred meet taser gun, taser gun meet Fred." After this, Fred, who appeared to have been taking lessons from Adam "Pacman" Jones, bit the wrist of the police officer. Good move Mr. Evans.

The charges against Evans include: Battery on a police officer, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest with violence, and trespassing.

Evans was a seventh round draft pick of the Dolphins in 2006. He appeared in one game last season with the Dolphins, and in my estimation, that is the one and only claim to fame he will have in his life, well other than being arrested. Congratulations Fred Evans, you may have just completed your one game career!

Out of every bad story, one can always dig down deep and pick out some good news. I have done just that. How many times do you see a player get arrested and the arrested player's team issues a comment along the lines of, "We will not comment on ongoing investigations. We will withhold any further comments until we have received more information?" Well, today, that changes.

The Miami Dolphins immediately issued a statement following the incident. A statement? Immediately? Yes, indeed it is true, no need to rub your eyes or reread the sentence.

"We are aware Fred Evans was arrested this morning," said Dolphins Head Coach Cam Cameron. "We will not condone this type of behavior. I assure everyone it will be dealt with seriously." A big move by the new head coach, however, one cannot forget that Miami issued the same, useless statement after Joey Porter got beat up by Levi Jones.

I just don't understand it. Why do players in the National Football League, whether they are stars or not, make these rash decisions. I just don't get how such talented, gifted men blow their chances by doing something as stupid as arguing with a taxi driver. It just makes no sense. I for one will never understand the logic behind these moves, but then again, I wasn't the one sitting in the back of the cab when the driver may have said, "are you talkin' to me?"

Brandon

Has The "Tank" Finally Exploded?

Chicago Bears Defensive Lineman "Tank" Johnson is becoming all too familiar with handcuffs. In a string of incidents matching that of the Cincinnati Bengals in length, Tank finds himself in trouble with the law once again.

It was early morning Friday when Arizona police pulled over Tank Johnson for speeding, but the simple speeding ticket eventually evolved into a blood test. The blood test showed that Tank was "impaired to the slightest degree."

Tank was pulled over for driving 40 MPH in a 25 MPH zone. The police officer on then made observations leaving him to believe that Tank was impaired. The drug tests showed the results, and a "very cooperative" Tank Johnson was taken "downtown." More blood-alcohol tests were taken and results are expected within two weeks. Johnson was released after the tests. Tank is currently serving an 8 game suspension handed down by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, and what this means for his future nobody knows?

Brandon

Larry Johnson To Hold Out?

400-carry-a-year running back Larry Johnson is threatening to hold out if he doesn't get a new contract by training camp. This is bad news for the just-hand-it-to-Larry-Johnson offense of the Kansas City Chiefs. Johnson tells Jason Whitlock of the Kansas City Star that, "I'm prepared."

Johnson also stated his beliefs that Chiefs owner Carl Peterson is going to "test" him in the contract negotiations. This could be an intense battle in light of the fact the Chiefs were openly shopping Johnson for a trade earlier this offseason.

Johnson's agent Alvin Keels also spoke with Whitlock telling him why the holdout was necessary. "The point I'd like to get out is that if we were to have to hold out, it would be for the sake of good business, not being greedy. I think the picture that is being painted right now in the eyes of the fans is that we're coming into this negotiation being greedy. It's not good business for a player who rushes the ball 416 times in a season, back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons, back-to-back 1,700-yard seasons, back-to-back broken Kansas City Chiefs records, it's not good business for him to come back in and play for $1.7 million. And that's a sensitive area because $1.7 million is a lot more than most people in Kansas City make."

However, the million dollar question, or 1.7 million dollar question, has to be a question of how good a runner Larry Johnson truly is. We have seen him in the past run with Willie Roaf and Will Shields paving the way for him. In 2006, after the departure of Roaf we saw Larry Johnson's yards per carry average drop .9 yards. Could that be a direct connection to the value of Willie Roaf? Now, if you also take away Will Shields, has Larry Johnson now become just a mediocre back? I think not, but numbers don't lie. This is why the Chiefs want to wait and see how Larry Johnson does without his future Hall of Fame offensive lineman.

However, one has to see Larry Johnson's side of the argument. He does it all for the Chiefs offense. Literally, everything, as he carries the ball over 400 times a season. 400 carries is a ton of carries. He is being paid just $1.7 million to get pounded over 400 times? Not only is that a high number, but Larry Johnson is also running with the entire Chiefs offense on his back.

Many of you would think that saying Larry Johnson will be traded is a joke. Some may think that would be absolutely insane. However, I am telling you it may happen, personally I think it will. The Chiefs seem to believe that they could get great value for Johnson and still have a solid option at running back. I think trading Larry Johnson is a horrific idea, but then again, I'm not the owner about to throw away a ton of cash.

Brandon

Pacman Jones Faces Two Felonies

In connection with a triple shooting in Las Vegas, Adam "Pacman" Jones is facing two felony charges, according to the Las Vegas Police. Pacman faces two two counts of felony coercion stemming from allegations he threatened to kill club employees and bit a bar bouncer on the ankle. In all likelihood this marks the end of a short career in the NFL for Adam "Pacman" Jones. Jones was incredibly talented, but he would never give up his rain making for his NFL career.

Brandon

Derek Anderson to be Browns QB?

According to the Akron Beacon Journal, if the season were to start today Derek Anderson would be the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Frowns. Derek Anderson? I understand not wanting to start Brady Quinn, but how bad do you have to be to believe that Derek Anderson is your quarterback. Someone call Romeo Crennel, right now! Derek Anderson? Now we know why the Cleveland Browns will always be terrible, no matter what they do. Derek Anderson? The guy has played in 5 career games. It seems that just because he led the Browns to one fluke win over the Chiefs that he is the man. Good grief.

Brandon

Lavar Arrington Update

The seriousness of Lavar Arringtons injury could be overexaggerated, depending on what you heard. A source who was a first responder at the scence of the accident said Lavar looked, "Messed up." Messed up being multiple broken bones, and he simply did not look like a guy who is an NFL veteran. Get well soon Lavar!

Brandon

Homers and Bios and Others

I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you a little more about myself. I am one of two Gridiron Gurus. The name is Brandon. Let me tell you a little bit about my personal favorites.

I am a big time Cincinnati Bengals fan. Live, breathe, eat, drink, and sleep Bengals football. Lived in Cincinnati my entire life. My life revolves around the Bengals and killing time in-between games. Therefore, expect a lot of Steelers, Browns, and Ravens bashing, along with bashing of future opponents. Also expect more Bengals articles than most, just because I can't help it. My partner in crime is also a big Bengals fan.

In terms of other sports, I am a well rounded fan. I have one favorite team in every sport, that is because I believe in one favorite team and hating all the rest.

Baseball - Cincinnati Reds
NBA - Cleveland Cavaliers; give us a team in Cincinnati!
College Basketball - Cincinnati Bearcats
NHL - Montreal Canadiens
College Football - Cincinnati Bearcats

Seeing a theme there?

Any questions, feel free to ask! Let this mark the beginning of a long future of Gridiron Blogging!

Lavar Arrington to the Hospital after Motorcycle Accident

Linebacker Lavar Arrington was hospitalized with serious injuries after his motorcycle crashed on a highway ramp. The injuries are not life threatening, but Lavar does have a few broken bones, as to be expected.

Police do not know how fast Arrington was traveling when he lost control and slammed his bike into a guardrail. Arrington, 29, was wearing a helmet and police say no alcohol was involved.

Arrington had a few broken bones according to his lawyer Rosalyn Pugh, but had not yet had surgery. Arrington was expected to stay the night at the hospital, so that he could be reevaluated in the morning.

Brandon

Quincy Wilson Arrested

Another Bengal has decided to change his stripes to white and black. The newest member of the team: Quincy Wilson. The Bengals running back was arrested and sent to jail for the day on a charge of disorderly conduct.

He and thirteen others were partying at a wedding celebration outside a bar at 3 a.m. when police asked that they leave. All fourteen of them refused the request, and forced the police to arrest them.

Wilson, 26, was sent to jail that early Sunday morning and was released later that afternoon. He is scheduled to appear in Huntingon Municipal Court on July 19th.

Bengals spokesman Jack Brennan had nothing to say as it is inappropriate for the Bengals to comment on matters that are unsettled.

With the next Bengal arrest one will no longer be able to count the total on two hands, as Wilson's arrest totals 10 in the last 14 months, for the Cincinnati Bengals. Expect Quincy Wilson to have a red note next time he opens his locker, because it is a sure bet that Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis will kick him out of town.

Brandon

Cops Want To Speak With Pacman Jones

The cops are chasing after Pacman Jones like he is the yellow pacman, and they are the colored monsters. Although it appears he is in no trouble, which is a nice change, the police still want to question him about a shooting early Monday morning outside a strip club in Atlanta. The shooting involved members of Pacman's entourage.

The Tennessee Titans star cornerback is currently riding a season long suspension after an incident at a Las Vegas strip club.

Jones, his entourage, and three other people got into a fight at 4 a.m. The fight, apparently over a woman, subsided and everyone involved left the strip club. Jones entourage traveled in three cars, while the three other people involved in the fight packed into one. Everything seemed to have ended, until at a red light, one car in Jones motorcade opened fire on the other car. The car quickly returned fire.

Police have already said that Pacman Jones will not be charged with anything, as he was not present at the time of the shooting. "We believe he knows some of his entourage who were involved in the shooting. On himself, we do not have any charges on him. He wasn't there when the shooting occurred," said officer Ariel Toledo. One person in the car was treated for minor injuries, but everyone else was left unhurt.

Jones' attorney, Manny Arora, says he is certain that Pacman will tell the police everything they want to know. "I've got to sit down with him and sit down with the police and figure out what we're looking at or if in fact he can even help them," Arora said. "Once we agree to do that, I will do it very privately and we'll take care of it."

The Tennessee Titans had no initial comment on the matter. Jones has been arrested five times. Two arrests were left unreported by Pacman to the NFL or the Titans, prompting NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to suspend the standout cornerback for the entire season. As to whether this incident will affect the suspension, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said, "We are looking into it."

Brandon

When in Doubt...

Blame it on a Bengal!

A humurous knock on the Cincinnati Bengals about their change from orange and black stripes to white and black stripes.

Brandon

A Gridiron Gang Begins!

Tonight is the mark of a new beginning. The beginning of a new dynasty. No, we aren't the New England Patriots, but we are the Gridiron Gurus. Let me now give you a rundown of what we, the Gridiron Gurus, want to do for you.

Goals:

We will share our unmatched knowledge of the NFL and the game of football itself.

We will provide you with up-to-the-minute NFL news.

We will give you more in-depth analysis than any major sports website.

What we plan to do:

Mini camp reports, training camp reports, game by game summaries, game analysis, stat coverage, and so much more!

Fantasy Football reports every week. Who to sit, who to start? Who to draft, who to stay away from? Complete and total Fantasy Football coverage right here!

We plan to cover every team in the NFL to cater to fans from all across the country.



Not an NFL fan? Not a problem! Sound like your talking football out of your…ignorance? Not a problem! Just check out Gridiron Gurus everyday and instead of being a Gridiron Goon, you will become a Gridiron Guru!

Tonight is just the beginning ladies and gentleman! Sit back and watch as we provide you with everything there is NFL!

Stay tuned,
Gridiron Gurus