Memories of the “Stadium”

May 29, 2010

No–it wasn’t Shea, the old Yankee one, or even Three Rivers. It was our wiffle ball venue as kids back in the 70′s–my next-door neighbor’s backyard serving as our nightly “home field” during those warm spring/summer days of yesteryear. Yes–we called it “The Stadium.” We’d meet there after dinner EVERY night (I’ll admit to eating much too quickly on occasion in order to get there first)–unless a downpour caused streams of water to be flowing down this uneven stretch of real estate that ran slightly downhill. Picture this layout: an unmovable rock serving as home plate–located just a few feet in front of some overgrown forsythia that would prevent balls which were fouled straight back from going into another neighbor’s yard. First base was simply the front, right edge of a patio just a few feet from the entrance to Al’s house; if Al’s younger sister was riding her “Big Wheel” there during any game, she’d be keenly aware of any batted balls stroked in her direction. Second base was ANOTHER rock–slightly larger than “home rock”–located about 30 feet from the outfield fence. Third base? A GARBAGE can that stood near a dilapidated, rusting shed on the edge of an overgrown grass area–serving as the boundary line of yet another neighbor’s property; one didn’t STEP on third when he arrived there as a simple touch of the receptacle would suffice. And stuck in the very MIDDLE of our treasured “ballpark”? None other than an above-ground swimming pool–so-often the collection area of batted balls that would simply not count and be replayed. The pitcher stood in front of the pool as there was no pitching rubber per se; I believe the unwritten rule was that if you could touch the pool from where you pitched–about 20-25 feet from the batter–you were “legal.”

Yes, we all adored our “stadium,” too. Any misplaced toys were frowned upon and floating wrappers of any kind were always immediately placed in the nearby ”third base receptacle.” I also recall the fresh smell of grass soon after Al’s Dad had finished mowing our field; that would make the base paths–having been formed simply by our constant playing–show up even better. And that outfield fence? It had brown posts with gnarly wire intertwined throughout. And I remember one day a few of us actually measuring its distance from home plate–with the right field “wall” being the shortest poke; it was just a few strides from the aforementioned patio. To this day, I’m not sure why we didn’t display the # of feet from home plate ON the fence itself; all I can surmise is that we didn’t have the tools/materials needed at our disposal.

Ah–and the games themselves (which–during school/summer vacation–usually followed an afternoon that had already included shagging fly balls for a couple of hours at the O’Brien Tech field down the street). There were the regulars who participated: Al, Joe, Tom, Jim, Steve, and myself. Al’s older brother–another Steve–would be “iffy”; if we needed an extra player–and he wasn’t busy playing his LP’s or 45′s indoors–he’d give us a few innings here and there. Equipment? We usually used the famed Wiffle-brand balls manufactured at the local plant in nearby Shelton–along with the accompanying yellow plastic bats. Often, we’d switch over to plastic balls with seams and NO holes–which would travel much farther but also become DENTED after any solid contact. I recall Jim and I winding black electrical tape around the handles of the bats to give them nothing more than a streamlined, professional look. And we’d all be sure to wear the hat or helmet of our favorite teams at the time, i.e. Al–the Tigers, Jim–the Dodgers, yours truly–the S.F. Giants. To this day, I remember the ‘shiny-ness’ of those plastic helmets, too–yeah, just like the ones the big-leaguers playing on TV were wearing.

We played until it got dark; the spotlight above the patio was futile in its attempt to provide us enough light to play past 9:00 PM. It was usually the older guys vs. the younger guys–no choosing sides, no bickering. And I recall another unwritten rule we had: no FIRING the ball on the part of the hurler, but no lobbing it, either–just a consistent, fair speed that we were all comfortable with. Wow–what a feeling when one cleared the fence with a “backyard blast.” For some reason, I never remember anyone in the field complaining when having to retrieve one hit into my yard or even one landing on an adjacent property–one dotted with HUGE trees along the leftfield line. We really didn’t care about the score; we simply played until no one could SEE the ball anymore. Personally, I recall always being disappointed when darkness took over–but also taking joy in the fact that there ALWAYS was a game scheduled the following night at “The Stadium.”

We’d all then pile into a car driven by one of the older guys–our destination being the Hardee’s Restaurant on Route 34. Large sodas were always in order for about a half-dozen thirsty kids who had surely experienced their collective dose of baseball for the day–although tomorrow STILL couldn’t arrive fast enough. Funny–the remnants of “The Stadium” are still located on a street known as Bruns Rd.; however, as an adult, it has now shifted to a place fondly known as Memory Lane. Luckily, memories can never be torn down or fade away; they just continue to bring joy.

Written by Bob Lazzari · Filed Under Baseball News | Leave a Comment

Miguel Cotto Speaks to the Spanish Language Press Regarding June 5th Bout

May 24, 2010

BRONX, NY – Although the history of boxing goes back in time to the first year, 1923, of the original Yankee Stadium, the sport of pugilism will be making its debut in the current Yankee Stadium on June 5. The show called “Stadium Slugfest” will be headlined by a 12 round encounter for the WBA Super Welterweight Championship. Yuri Foreman (28-0, 8 KO’s) will be defending his title against Miguel Cotto (34-2, 27 KO’s), a three-time world champion.

The fights that night will be the first bouts fought in a Yankee Stadium ring since September 28, 1976 when Muhammed Ali won a 15 round decision over Ken Norton. Forty-five boxing shows were held at the venue during its first 36 years of existence, but the June 5^th show will only be the second in more than a half-century (June 26, 1959). The names of boxing legends that fought at the Bronx venue include Joe Louis, 11 times, Rocky Marciano, Sugar Ray Robinson and Jack Dempsey.

Miguel Cotto, the challenger on June5, held a Spanish language press conference on Wednesday, May 19, to help promote the event. Cotto expressed his pride when asked to describe his feelings of boxing in this historic site, “It’s a legendary place. It’s very emotional for me. If we give a good performance our names will be connected to the greats of the past.”

Without denigrating his upcoming opponent, Cotto expressed confidence that his preparation will be sufficient to ensure him a victory in the bout, “I’m prepared for this fight. I have great plans. I’ve worked for the past 7-8 weeks. We will try to implement what we have learned [of Yuri Foreman].” When asked if fighting at 154 pounds will be more difficult than his previous championships, 140 and 147 pound weights, Cotto responded, “I feel very well. I don’t think it’ll be a big difference.”

Cotto has headlined shows at Madison Square Garden in mid-June during four of the past five years as part of the festive events held during the week preceding the National Puerto Rican Parade on Fifth Avenue. Cotto, a native of Caguas asked if he formulated this tradition. He said the idea was that of his promoters, Top Rank.

Cotto was asked if his new trainer, Emanuel Steward, will make a difference in the bout. The former champ said of the legendary and experienced trainer of many champions, “Who wouldn’t be happy to have him in his corner?” Steward explained to reporters his methods of training his new fighter, “We use a lot of music and dancing to improve his balance. It’s been fun. He’s like a new boxer.”

The two boxers are both 29 years old, but Cotto has much more experience, especially competing against highly rated boxers. Although the two never faced one another, Foreman fought on the undercard of three shows headlined by Cotto.

As the New York Yankees are part of the promotion, Jason Zillo, the director of media relations for the team was asked to comment on the fight being held at the new home of the Yankees. He stated, “This is a facility that should not be dormant when the Yankees are on the road or during the winter and early spring months. This stadium can transcend the sport of baseball. There are endless opportunities here and I know our ownership will pursue them.”

Written by Howard Goldin · Filed Under Other Sports | Leave a Comment

The Rise and Fall of JaMarcus Russell

May 22, 2010

When people used to bring up the phrase “Draft Bust,” it used to signal the talk of Ryan Leaf. Nowadays, Leaf is basically an afterthought. There’s a new man holding down that crown of being the biggest draft bust in NFL History, and that man is JaMarcus Russell. Russell was just recently released by the Oakland Raiders, after playing only three seasons for the team. He was even shunned by “THE” Al Davis, the man who gave the go-ahead to draft him with the 1st pick in the 2007 draft. Davis is notorious for drafting players that have great speed, or had a great combine, or have many accolades. With this article, I’ll talk a little about what made Russell the 1st pick in the draft, and only three seasons later, being jobless.

JaMarcus Russell went through his junior season at Louisiana State as a wonderkind. He was putting up unbelievable stats while leading the Tigers to a 10-2 record and a spot in the All-State Sugar Bowl game against Notre Dame. During the regular season, Russell threw for 3,129 yards 28 Touchdowns and 8 interceptions. In the bowl-game against Notre Dame, Russell accumulated 350 yards of total offense and had 3 touchdowns while being named the game’s MVP in a 41-14 win. At LSU’s pro-day, Russell measured and weighed in at 6’5 ½ 265 pounds, and was throwing 60 yard bombs from his knees. When people heard of this, most of them were saying, “he did what?” Guys with that kind of arm-strength are basically not human. Can Chad Pennington throw the ball even 50 yards with a running start and full wind-up? I doubt it.

But Russell was basically the topic of pre-draft chatter after what he did at the LSU pro-day. What puzzles me is that nobody was really talking too much about his weight. A quarterback coming in weighing 265 pounds….wouldn’t there be some concern over weight issues? In my mind, yes, there should have been. But the Raiders went ahead and drafted Russell with the 1st pick in the 2007 draft, over the likes of Calvin Johnson, who head coach Lane Kiffin wanted, Adrian Peterson, who is a perennial NFL rushing leader year in and year out, and even Patrick Willis, who just signed a 5 year extension with $29 million guaranteed with the 49ers because of how much of a beast he is. Passing on franchise WR’s, future hall-of-fame RB’s, and Brian Urlacher-type LB’s could set your franchise back years. In fact, in what is definitely a weird coincidence, in the next three drafts for the Raiders after Russell, they drafted a RB, WR, and LB. (Darren McFadden in ‘08, Darrius Heyward-Bey in ‘09, and Rolando McClain in ‘10, just for kicks)

So back to JaMarcus Russell. He held out his rookie training camp before signing a huge contract in the range of 6 years for $68 million with $31.5 million guaranteed. Russell didn’t even take a snap from center until December 2, 2007 when he did so against the Denver Broncos. Russell went 4 of 7 for 56 yards. He didn’t play again until December 23 when he played against the Jacksonville Jaguars. In a disastrous statistical game, Russell completed only 7 of 23 passes for 83 yards to go along with 1 touchdown, 3 interceptions, and 1 lost fumble. OUCH. After that performance, and the Raiders only sporting a 4-11 record, Lane Kiffin decided to start Russell in the last game of the season against the San Diego Chargers. On Russell’s first pass as a starting quarterback, he threw an interception. Russell couldn’t finish the game after leaving early in the third quarter after an apparent injury. He did, however, finish the game completing 23 of 31 passes for 224 yards and a TD. I failed to mention he had three turnovers which led to 17 Charger points in a 30-17 loss. Without those 17 points, the Raiders would have won that game 17-13.

In the 2008 season, Russell was named the starting QB in training camp and ended up starting 15 games. In what was his best statistical season in the NFL thus far in a very short NFL career, Russell threw for 2,423 yards, 13 TD and only 8 INT’s. That was not a bad year for a guy who is only starting his first full season in the league. The Raiders thought they had something now. They thought wrong. Coming into the 2009 season, Russell was again named the starting QB in training camp, which didn’t surprise anybody after the season he had in ‘08. Which would end up being the beginning of the downfall of JaMarcus Russell, he finished a horrible season completing 48.8 percent of his passes with an abysmal 3 TD’s and 11 INT’s in 9 starts. During the season, he was also benched for the likes of Bruce Gradkowski and journeyman Charlie Frye. Russell really soured in the Raiders’ front office with his mediocre play and nonchalant attitude. He was often seen on the sidelines looking not interested and non-caring. By the end of the ‘09 season, Russell was now the #3 QB on the Raiders depth chart.

In the off season, Russell was criticized for his lack of conditioning and the talk was beginning that the Raiders front-office personnel was trying to convince Al Davis that they had to move on from Russell. Davis eventually agreed and on May 6, 2010, less than 3 years after drafting him #1 overall, JaMarcus Russell was released by the Oakland Raiders. With $36 million already collected in paychecks and guaranteed money, and another $3 million coming his way in the form of a guaranteed paycheck, Russell collected $39 million from the Raiders for completing 52% of his passes, a little over 4,000 yards passing with only 18 TD’s and 23 INT’s. Now, Russell is jobless. What a shame for a guy to have so much talent, make so much money, to just not care about his job and then subsequently be released so soon into his career.

There was talk that the Cincinnati Bengals were interested in bringing him in as a backup, and there was also speculation some teams were interested in bringing him in and playing another position. Russell is not budging. The New Orleans Saints have already said they are not interested in bringing Russell back to his home town to backup Drew Brees. Russell has said that he is not at all interested in signing with the Arena Football League or the Canadian Football League. I believe he should leave all doors open. Even if he tried to boost his stock in the newly developed United Football League, I think that’d be great for him. Daunte Culpepper has just signed with a team out in Sacramento. Having two big-name guys in the league would be good for exposure and be good for Russell. He shouldn’t say, “I’m only going to play in the NFL, or nothing.” I truly believe a team in the UFL should definitely try to woo him into playing a year or two with them. He is only 24 years old and doesn’t turn 25 until August. Playing a year in another league where he could work on his conditioning, keeping his weight under control, and even his skills, he could benefit in all aspects. But with that said, having $39 million in the bank is unreal, maybe he’ll just retire. Who knows? Only JaMarcus does.

Written by JP Fox · Filed Under Football News | Leave a Comment

Team Needs and Moves AFC

May 22, 2010

Buffalo Bills

Team Losses - T. Owens – WR, J. Reed – WR, C. Draft – LB

Team Additions – D. Edwards – DE, A. Davis – LB, C. Green – OT

Team Needs – (Switching to a 3-4) OT, NT, QB, OLB, WR, DE

Draft:

1. CJ Spiller – RB, Clemson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxkNT9IxEu8

2. Torell Troup – DT, UCF

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeLhek6HBOM

3. Alex Carrington – DE, Arkansas State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAvEloMMOhQ&feature=related

4. Marcus Easley – WR, Connecticut

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IV2L0DpLmQM

5. Ed Wang – OT, Virginia Tech

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

6. Arthur Moats – OLB, James Madison

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

6. Danny Batten – OLB, South Dakota State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJKntBPsdo4

7. Levi Brown – QB, Troy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3pgLJdyBh0

7. Kyle Calloway – G, Iowa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ7pxdQ3oPg

Miami Dolphins

Team Losses – J. Taylor – OLB, J. Porter – OLB, G. Wilson – S, T. Ginn – WR/KR, A. Ayodele – LB, N. Jones – CB

Team Additions – B. Marshall – WR, K. Dansby – LB, R. Incognito – G, T. Dobbins – LB

Team Needs – OLB, NT, FS, G, TE, ILB

Draft:

1. Jared Odrick – DT, Penn State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zj5LXLmFg7E

2. Koa Misi – OLB, Utah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4Mm-hICcfc

3. John Jerry – G, Mississippi

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwDK66T5kL0

4. AJ Edds – OLB, Iowa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=do7aIOuBD7o

5. Nolan Carroll – CB, Maryland

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY32955jZag

5. Reshad Jones – S, Georgia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4R1Ryqw3k5Y

7. Chris McCoy – OLB, Middle Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eGaRsen0n8 (at 1:21 mark)

7. Austin Spitler – ILB, Ohio State

New England Patriots

Team Losses – B. Watson – TE, A. Thomas – LB/pass rush specialist

Team Additions – T. Holt – WR, D. Lewis – DT/DE, A. Crumpler – TE, T. Banta-Cain – OLB/pass rush specialist

Team Needs – (possibly implementing more 4-3 defensive fronts) TE, OLB, WR, CB, D-Line depth

Draft:

1. Devin McCourty – CB/KR, Rutgers

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIl5Du2OMMg

2. Rob Gronkowski – TE, Arizona

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

2. Jermaine Cunningham – DE, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94309Y-E6Os

2. Brandon Spikes – ILB, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsSCrkUrI1U

3. Taylor Price – WR, Ohio

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7WrvN3aKJE

4. Aaron Hernandez – TE, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-G0i3Cc84Tc

5. Zoltan Mesko – P, Michigan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJS91Gfd_CI

6. Ted Larsen – C, N.C. State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0l1LSO8M_g (at 1:47 mark)

7. Thomas Welch – OT, Vanderbilt

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0l1LSO8M_g (at 2:02 mark)

7. Brandon Deaderick – DE, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzHFpI3L3DA

7. Kade Weston – DT, Georgia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0l1LSO8M_g (at 2:29 mark)

7. Zac Robinson – QB, Oklahoma State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QP4gWiz22A

New York Jets

Team Losses – T. Jones – RB, L. Washington – RB, K. Rhoades – S, L. Sheppard – CB, A. Faneca – G

Team Additions – A. Cromartie – CB, L. Tomlinson – RB, S. Holmes – WR, J. Taylor – OLB, B. Poole – S

Team Needs – OLB, DE, S, G, T

Draft:

1. Kyle Wilson – CB, Boise State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TMCiFmr7E4

2. Vladimir Ducasse – OT, Massachusetts

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwLp0hBtWsg

4. Joe McKnight – RB, Southern Cal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fliv9DNBfIg

5. John Conner – FB, Kentucky

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWksU1w1Qq0 (at :10 mark)

AFC West

Denver Broncos

Team Losses – B. Marshall – WR, T. Scheffler – TE, A. Davis – LB

Team Additions – J. Williams – NT, J. Bannon – DE, A. Ayodele – LB, B. Quinn – QB

Team Needs – WR, C, QB, D-Line, LB

Draft:

1. Demaryius Thomas – WR, Georgia Tech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nDhGrYAx5g

1. Tim Tebow – QB, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unznEqnn2E4

2. Zane Beadles – OT, Utah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A43AZoUopLs (at 1:45 mark)

3. J.D. Walton – C, Baylor

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95VCpeM5kEc (at :12 mark)

3. Eric Decker – WR, Minnesota

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cx9WWaKQk5s&feature=fvst

5. Perrish Cox – CB, Oklahoma State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ma_n9K3stn8

6. Eric Olsen – G, Notre Dame

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95VCpeM5kEc (at :42 mark)

7. Syd’Quan Thompson – DB, California

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMk77JUWmw0

7. Jammie Kirlew – LB, Indiana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eu2wuaKUhGs

Kansas City Chiefs

Team Losses – N/A

Team Additions – T. Jones – RB, S. Smith – DT, R. Lilja – G, J. Urban – WR, C Wiegmann

Team Needs – OT, NT, S, TE, LB

Draft:

1. Eric Berry – S, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABh4EthNnDA

2. Dexter McCluster – RB/WR, Mississippi

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fA1dAqOIEE0

2. Javier Arenas – CB, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIGsZqAK8N4

3. Jon Asamoah – G, Illinois

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=989OK1N8Hg0

3. Tony Moeaki – TE, Iowa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GoGPZ-43CY

5. Kendrick Lewis – DB, Mississippi

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fMGEdBCO4A (at the 3:55 mark)

5. Cameron Sheffield – LB, Troy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qG5EThKqj-U (at the 2:00 mark)

Oakland Raiders

Team Losses – K. Morrison – MLB, G. Ellis – DE, J. Fargas – RB, G. Warren – DT,

Team Additions – J. Campbell – QB, K. Wimbley – OLB, Q. Groves – OLB

Team Needs – (possibly transitioning to a 3-4 defense) OT, MLB, DT/NT, QB, S

Draft:

1. Rolando McClain – LB, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvj1eDfaIO4

2. Lamarr Houston – DT, Texas

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

3. Jared Veldheer – OT, Hillsdale

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpRy5cVwHh4 (at 1:42 mark)

4. Bruce Campbell – OT/G, Maryland

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnMm7AcJ7RI

4. Jacoby Ford – WR, Clemson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lp4_19YsG2A

5. Walter McFadden – DB, Auburn

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YultaUpaBAQ (pt 1 of 3)

6. Travis Goethel – LB, Arizona State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wnw5dmBHpA (at 5:20 mark)

7. Jeremy Ware – DB, Michigan State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wnw5dmBHpA (at 5:33 mark)

7. Steven Brown – DB, Michigan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wnw5dmBHpA (at 6:05 mark)

San Diego Chargers

Team Losses – J. Williams – NT, L. Tomlinson – RB, A. Cromartie – CB, T. Dobbins – LB

Team Additions – N. Vasher – CB, N. Novak – K

Team Needs – RB, NT, CB, DE, O-Line depth

Draft:

1. Ryan Mathews – RB, Fresno State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iA9wiFnDVdE

3. Donald Butler – LB, Washington

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtJT1-uqcik (at 3:53 mark)

4. Darrell Stuckey – DB, Kansas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7z52oB5j0QI

5. Cam Thomas – NT, North Carolina

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Npe9dFUyGJ4 (#95)

5. Jonathan Crompton – QB, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNhd0oV3-3o

7. Dedrick Epps – TE, Miami

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SGnPKV9rZk

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

Team Losses – D. Edwards – DT/DE, J. Bannan – DT/DE, S. Rolle – CB

Team Additions – A. Bolden – WR, C. Redding – DT/DE, D. Stallworth – WR

Team Needs – ILB, CB, TE, WR

Draft:

2. Sergio Kindle – LB, Texas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVLT2w6Z6SY

2. Terrence Cody – DT/NT, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iig2eh_zjOs

3. Ed Dickson – TE, Oregon

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc0hRDBgjBE

4. Dennis Pitta – TE, BYU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSqUnYL60Ao

5. David Reed – WR, Utah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUaGQrb6mgU

5. Arthur Jones – DT, Syracuse

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsF3OEVaJBU

6. Ramon Harewood – OT, Morehouse

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xd-Am4-7ZV8 (at 4:12 mark)

Cincinnati Bengals

Team Losses – S. Smith – DT, B. Williams – G, L. Coles – WR, S. Graham – K

Team Additions – A. Bryant – WR, M. Jones – WR/TE, M. Nugent – K, G. Wilson – S, Pacman Jones – CB, C. Peerman – RB

Team Needs – TE, S, G, LB, QB

Draft:

1. Jermaine Gresham – TE, Oklahoma

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nngZJXnuS98

2. Carlos Dunlap – DE, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Q5Q2PZklrI

3. Jordan Shipley – WR, Texas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3oyB-AbPCU

3. Brandon Ghee – CB, Wake Forest

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66qlBv7WTME (#17)

4. Geno Atkins – DT, Georgia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHcibKj216A (at 1:23 mark)

4. Rodderick Muckelroy – LB, Texas

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

5. Otis Hudson – G, Eastern Illinois

6. Dezmon Briscoe – WR, Kansas

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

7. Reggie Stephens – C, Iowa State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wz6YYSsWIeg (at :23 mark)

Cleveland Browns

Team Losses – J. Lewis – RB, B. Quinn – QB, D. Anderson – QB, A. Hall – LB, B. Poole – S, H. Fraley – C

Team Additions – J. Delhomme – QB, S. Wallace – QB, B. Watson – TE, S. Brown – CB, T. Pashos – OT, C. Gocong – LB, S. Fujita – LB, P. Hillis – RB/FB, A. Smith – TE, E. Ghiaciuc – C

Team Needs – QB, S, WR, CB, RB, LB, O-Line

Draft:

1. Joe Haden – CB, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJBn0saY1_k

2. TJ Ward – S, Oregon

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NetmUwDaAI

2. Montario Hardesty – RB, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJJiHPqy8xE

3. Colt McCoy – QB, Texas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5B_tGheuQ4

3. Shawn Lauvao – G, Arizona State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcaxxJoe3n0

5. Larry Asante – S, Nebraska

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IkAU7G6Sic

6. Carlton Mitchell – WR, South Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddm_AwNfUY8

6. Clifton Geathers – DE, South Carolina

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8uCPzHnWk4

Pittsburgh Steelers

Team Losses – S. Holmes – WR, W. Parker – RB

Team Additions – B. Leftwich – QB, A. Randle-El – WR, W. Allen – S, B. McFadden – CB, L. Foote – LB, J. Scott – OT

Team Needs – O-Line, CB, LB, RB, WR, TE

Draft:

1. Maurkice Pouncey – C, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6NT3DAMtrE

2. Jason Worilds – LB, Virginia Tech

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

3. Emmanuel Sanders – WR, SMU

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

4. Thaddeus Gibson – LB, Ohio State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icaUlcW2SCQ

5. Chris Scott – OT, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IysD6dlxsIo

5. Crezdon Butler – DB, Clemson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhQucP7DjYE

5. Stevenson Sylvester – LB, Utah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-3oUIQ09IU

6. Jonathan Dwyer – RB, Georgia Tech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bq9Yme2gczU

6. Antonio Brown – WR, Central Michigan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U172KCi1mks

7. Doug Worthington – DE, Ohio State

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

AFC South

Houston Texans

Team Losses – D. Robinson – CB, B. Russell (?) – S

Team Additions – N. Rackers – K, W. Smith – O-Line, M. Gaines – TE

Team Needs – CB, RB, G, FS, WR

Draft:

1. Kareem Jackson – CB, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUlu7sXogUM

2. Ben Tate – RB, Auburn

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

3. Earl Mitchell – DT, Arizona

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FgzV4MRXcU

4. Darryl Sharpton – LB, Miami

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fMGEdBCO4A (at 1:22 mark)

4. Garrett Graham – TE, Wisconsin

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAljnqfm7yA

5. Sherrick McManis – DB, Northwestern

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4VulMlHEjI (at :12 mark)

6. Shelley Smith – G, Colorado State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kIXVCmvoUw (at :10 mark)

6. Trindon Holliday – KR, LSU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlYgAUH7zfI

7. Dorin Dickerson – TE/WR – Pittsburgh

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9fZQpuoJ_Q

Indianapolis Colts

Team Losses – M. Jackson – CB, R. Brock – DE, R. Lilja – G, J. Sorgi – QB

Team Additions – A. Terry – OT

Team Needs – OT, G, DT, LB, QB, DE

Draft:

1. Jerry Hughes – DE, TCU

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

2. Pat Angerer – LB, Iowa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NpRbgzYTY0

3. Kevin Thomas – CB, Southern Cal

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TltqT7D8D_I

4. Jacques McClendon – G, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9f_Obm0Zi74

5. Brody Eldridge – TE, Oklahoma

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulV_O5UZE6U (at 2:05 mark)

7. Ricardo Mathews – DE, Cincinnati

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGh_uGzSPH8 (at 1:28 mark)

7. Kavell Conner – LB, Clemson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzgxywpm8wc (at 2:26 mark)

7. Ray Fisher – DB, Indiana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjBpDXKv6Fc

Jacksonville Jaguars

Team Losses – J. Henderson – DT, T. Holt – WR, T. Thomas – OT, Q. Groves – DE

Team Additions – A. Kampman – DE, K. Morrison – MLB, F. Keiaho – LB, K. Osgood – WR

Team Needs – LB, DT, S, QB, C, DE, WR

Draft:

1. Tyson Alualu – DT, California

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCjawbHQ2Ns

3. D’Anthony Smith – DT, Louisiana Tech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdX0jhm3ulI

5. Larry Hart – DE, Central Arkansas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxOvrOHGbU0

5. Austen Lane – DE, Murray State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLzaVpl0NUQ

6. Deji Karim – RB, Southern Illinois

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMpFoHv6kQM

6. Scotty McGee – KR, James Madison

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svRvZxTCTb4

Tennessee Titans

Team Losses – K. Vanden Bosch – DE, K. Bulluck (?) – LB, K. Mawae (?) – C, L. White – RB

Team Additions – W. Witherspoon – LB, J. Babin – DE, T. Hill – CB, C. Simms – QB

Team Needs – DE, CB, LB, G, WR, QB

Draft:

1. Derrick Morgan – DE, Georgia Tech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDFUIyuqiH0

3. Damian Williams – WR, Southern Cal

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eggkv0Z0tQ

3. Rennie Curran – LB, Georgia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wndM8tc0SB8

4. Alterraun Verner – CB, UCLA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cZbjLR1l_c

5. Robert Johnson – S, Utah

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

6. Rusty Smith – QB, Florida Atlantic

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qf5qN7TfiA

6. Myron Rolle – S, Florida State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsn1aIaYj-Y

7. Marc Mariani – WR, Montana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNM1NYBp0QQ

7. David Howard – DT, Brown

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLzaVpl0NUQ (at :22 mark)

Written by Frankie Underwood · Filed Under Football News | Leave a Comment

Team Needs and Moves AFC

May 22, 2010

Buffalo Bills

Team Losses - T. Owens – WR, J. Reed – WR, C. Draft – LB

Team Additions – D. Edwards – DE, A. Davis – LB, C. Green – OT

Team Needs – (Switching to a 3-4) OT, NT, QB, OLB, WR, DE

Draft:

1. CJ Spiller – RB, Clemson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxkNT9IxEu8

2. Torell Troup – DT, UCF

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeLhek6HBOM

3. Alex Carrington – DE, Arkansas State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAvEloMMOhQ&feature=related

4. Marcus Easley – WR, Connecticut

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IV2L0DpLmQM

5. Ed Wang – OT, Virginia Tech

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

6. Arthur Moats – OLB, James Madison

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

6. Danny Batten – OLB, South Dakota State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJKntBPsdo4

7. Levi Brown – QB, Troy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3pgLJdyBh0

7. Kyle Calloway – G, Iowa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ7pxdQ3oPg

Miami Dolphins

Team Losses – J. Taylor – OLB, J. Porter – OLB, G. Wilson – S, T. Ginn – WR/KR, A. Ayodele – LB, N. Jones – CB

Team Additions – B. Marshall – WR, K. Dansby – LB, R. Incognito – G, T. Dobbins – LB

Team Needs – OLB, NT, FS, G, TE, ILB

Draft:

1. Jared Odrick – DT, Penn State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zj5LXLmFg7E

2. Koa Misi – OLB, Utah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4Mm-hICcfc

3. John Jerry – G, Mississippi

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwDK66T5kL0

4. AJ Edds – OLB, Iowa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=do7aIOuBD7o

5. Nolan Carroll – CB, Maryland

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY32955jZag

5. Reshad Jones – S, Georgia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4R1Ryqw3k5Y

7. Chris McCoy – OLB, Middle Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eGaRsen0n8 (at 1:21 mark)

7. Austin Spitler – ILB, Ohio State

New England Patriots

Team Losses – B. Watson – TE, A. Thomas – LB/pass rush specialist

Team Additions – T. Holt – WR, D. Lewis – DT/DE, A. Crumpler – TE, T. Banta-Cain – OLB/pass rush specialist

Team Needs – (possibly implementing more 4-3 defensive fronts) TE, OLB, WR, CB, D-Line depth

Draft:

1. Devin McCourty – CB/KR, Rutgers

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIl5Du2OMMg

2. Rob Gronkowski – TE, Arizona

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

2. Jermaine Cunningham – DE, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94309Y-E6Os

2. Brandon Spikes – ILB, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsSCrkUrI1U

3. Taylor Price – WR, Ohio

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7WrvN3aKJE

4. Aaron Hernandez – TE, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-G0i3Cc84Tc

5. Zoltan Mesko – P, Michigan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJS91Gfd_CI

6. Ted Larsen – C, N.C. State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0l1LSO8M_g (at 1:47 mark)

7. Thomas Welch – OT, Vanderbilt

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0l1LSO8M_g (at 2:02 mark)

7. Brandon Deaderick – DE, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzHFpI3L3DA

7. Kade Weston – DT, Georgia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0l1LSO8M_g (at 2:29 mark)

7. Zac Robinson – QB, Oklahoma State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QP4gWiz22A

New York Jets

Team Losses – T. Jones – RB, L. Washington – RB, K. Rhoades – S, L. Sheppard – CB, A. Faneca – G

Team Additions – A. Cromartie – CB, L. Tomlinson – RB, S. Holmes – WR, J. Taylor – OLB, B. Poole – S

Team Needs – OLB, DE, S, G, T

Draft:

1. Kyle Wilson – CB, Boise State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TMCiFmr7E4

2. Vladimir Ducasse – OT, Massachusetts

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwLp0hBtWsg

4. Joe McKnight – RB, Southern Cal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fliv9DNBfIg

5. John Conner – FB, Kentucky

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWksU1w1Qq0 (at :10 mark)

AFC West

Denver Broncos

Team Losses – B. Marshall – WR, T. Scheffler – TE, A. Davis – LB

Team Additions – J. Williams – NT, J. Bannon – DE, A. Ayodele – LB, B. Quinn – QB

Team Needs – WR, C, QB, D-Line, LB

Draft:

1. Demaryius Thomas – WR, Georgia Tech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nDhGrYAx5g

1. Tim Tebow – QB, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unznEqnn2E4

2. Zane Beadles – OT, Utah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A43AZoUopLs (at 1:45 mark)

3. J.D. Walton – C, Baylor

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95VCpeM5kEc (at :12 mark)

3. Eric Decker – WR, Minnesota

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cx9WWaKQk5s&feature=fvst

5. Perrish Cox – CB, Oklahoma State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ma_n9K3stn8

6. Eric Olsen – G, Notre Dame

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95VCpeM5kEc (at :42 mark)

7. Syd’Quan Thompson – DB, California

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMk77JUWmw0

7. Jammie Kirlew – LB, Indiana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eu2wuaKUhGs

Kansas City Chiefs

Team Losses – N/A

Team Additions – T. Jones – RB, S. Smith – DT, R. Lilja – G, J. Urban – WR, C Wiegmann

Team Needs – OT, NT, S, TE, LB

Draft:

1. Eric Berry – S, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABh4EthNnDA

2. Dexter McCluster – RB/WR, Mississippi

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fA1dAqOIEE0

2. Javier Arenas – CB, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIGsZqAK8N4

3. Jon Asamoah – G, Illinois

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=989OK1N8Hg0

3. Tony Moeaki – TE, Iowa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GoGPZ-43CY

5. Kendrick Lewis – DB, Mississippi

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fMGEdBCO4A (at the 3:55 mark)

5. Cameron Sheffield – LB, Troy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qG5EThKqj-U (at the 2:00 mark)

Oakland Raiders

Team Losses – K. Morrison – MLB, G. Ellis – DE, J. Fargas – RB, G. Warren – DT,

Team Additions – J. Campbell – QB, K. Wimbley – OLB, Q. Groves – OLB

Team Needs – (possibly transitioning to a 3-4 defense) OT, MLB, DT/NT, QB, S

Draft:

1. Rolando McClain – LB, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvj1eDfaIO4

2. Lamarr Houston – DT, Texas

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

3. Jared Veldheer – OT, Hillsdale

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpRy5cVwHh4 (at 1:42 mark)

4. Bruce Campbell – OT/G, Maryland

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnMm7AcJ7RI

4. Jacoby Ford – WR, Clemson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lp4_19YsG2A

5. Walter McFadden – DB, Auburn

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YultaUpaBAQ (pt 1 of 3)

6. Travis Goethel – LB, Arizona State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wnw5dmBHpA (at 5:20 mark)

7. Jeremy Ware – DB, Michigan State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wnw5dmBHpA (at 5:33 mark)

7. Steven Brown – DB, Michigan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wnw5dmBHpA (at 6:05 mark)

San Diego Chargers

Team Losses – J. Williams – NT, L. Tomlinson – RB, A. Cromartie – CB, T. Dobbins – LB

Team Additions – N. Vasher – CB, N. Novak – K

Team Needs – RB, NT, CB, DE, O-Line depth

Draft:

1. Ryan Mathews – RB, Fresno State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iA9wiFnDVdE

3. Donald Butler – LB, Washington

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtJT1-uqcik (at 3:53 mark)

4. Darrell Stuckey – DB, Kansas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7z52oB5j0QI

5. Cam Thomas – NT, North Carolina

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Npe9dFUyGJ4 (#95)

5. Jonathan Crompton – QB, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNhd0oV3-3o

7. Dedrick Epps – TE, Miami

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SGnPKV9rZk

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

Team Losses – D. Edwards – DT/DE, J. Bannan – DT/DE, S. Rolle – CB

Team Additions – A. Bolden – WR, C. Redding – DT/DE, D. Stallworth – WR

Team Needs – ILB, CB, TE, WR

Draft:

2. Sergio Kindle – LB, Texas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVLT2w6Z6SY

2. Terrence Cody – DT/NT, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iig2eh_zjOs

3. Ed Dickson – TE, Oregon

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc0hRDBgjBE

4. Dennis Pitta – TE, BYU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSqUnYL60Ao

5. David Reed – WR, Utah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUaGQrb6mgU

5. Arthur Jones – DT, Syracuse

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsF3OEVaJBU

6. Ramon Harewood – OT, Morehouse

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xd-Am4-7ZV8 (at 4:12 mark)

Cincinnati Bengals

Team Losses – S. Smith – DT, B. Williams – G, L. Coles – WR, S. Graham – K

Team Additions – A. Bryant – WR, M. Jones – WR/TE, M. Nugent – K, G. Wilson – S, Pacman Jones – CB, C. Peerman – RB

Team Needs – TE, S, G, LB, QB

Draft:

1. Jermaine Gresham – TE, Oklahoma

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nngZJXnuS98

2. Carlos Dunlap – DE, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Q5Q2PZklrI

3. Jordan Shipley – WR, Texas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3oyB-AbPCU

3. Brandon Ghee – CB, Wake Forest

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66qlBv7WTME (#17)

4. Geno Atkins – DT, Georgia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHcibKj216A (at 1:23 mark)

4. Rodderick Muckelroy – LB, Texas

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

5. Otis Hudson – G, Eastern Illinois

6. Dezmon Briscoe – WR, Kansas

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

7. Reggie Stephens – C, Iowa State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wz6YYSsWIeg (at :23 mark)

Cleveland Browns

Team Losses – J. Lewis – RB, B. Quinn – QB, D. Anderson – QB, A. Hall – LB, B. Poole – S, H. Fraley – C

Team Needs – QB, S, WR, CB, RB, LB, O-Line

Draft:

1. Joe Haden – CB, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJBn0saY1_k

2. TJ Ward – S, Oregon

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NetmUwDaAI

2. Montario Hardesty – RB, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJJiHPqy8xE

3. Colt McCoy – QB, Texas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5B_tGheuQ4

3. Shawn Lauvao – G, Arizona State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcaxxJoe3n0

5. Larry Asante – S, Nebraska

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IkAU7G6Sic

6. Carlton Mitchell – WR, South Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddm_AwNfUY8

6. Clifton Geathers – DE, South Carolina

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8uCPzHnWk4

Pittsburgh Steelers

Team Losses – S. Holmes – WR, W. Parker – RB

Team Additions – B. Leftwich – QB, A. Randle-El – WR, W. Allen – S, B. McFadden – CB, L. Foote – LB, J. Scott – OT

Team Needs – O-Line, CB, LB, RB, WR, TE

Draft:

1. Maurkice Pouncey – C, Florida

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6NT3DAMtrE

2. Jason Worilds – LB, Virginia Tech

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

3. Emmanuel Sanders – WR, SMU

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

4. Thaddeus Gibson – LB, Ohio State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icaUlcW2SCQ

5. Chris Scott – OT, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IysD6dlxsIo

5. Crezdon Butler – DB, Clemson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhQucP7DjYE

5. Stevenson Sylvester – LB, Utah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-3oUIQ09IU

6. Jonathan Dwyer – RB, Georgia Tech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bq9Yme2gczU

6. Antonio Brown – WR, Central Michigan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U172KCi1mks

7. Doug Worthington – DE, Ohio State

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

AFC South

Houston Texans

Team Losses – D. Robinson – CB, B. Russell (?) – S

Team Additions – N. Rackers – K, W. Smith – O-Line, M. Gaines – TE

Team Needs – CB, RB, G, FS, WR

Draft:

1. Kareem Jackson – CB, Alabama

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUlu7sXogUM

2. Ben Tate – RB, Auburn

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

3. Earl Mitchell – DT, Arizona

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FgzV4MRXcU

4. Darryl Sharpton – LB, Miami

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fMGEdBCO4A (at 1:22 mark)

4. Garrett Graham – TE, Wisconsin

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAljnqfm7yA

5. Sherrick McManis – DB, Northwestern

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4VulMlHEjI (at :12 mark)

6. Shelley Smith – G, Colorado State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kIXVCmvoUw (at :10 mark)

6. Trindon Holliday – KR, LSU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlYgAUH7zfI

7. Dorin Dickerson – TE/WR – Pittsburgh

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9fZQpuoJ_Q

Indianapolis Colts

Team Losses – M. Jackson – CB, R. Brock – DE, R. Lilja – G, J. Sorgi – QB

Team Additions – A. Terry – OT

Team Needs – OT, G, DT, LB, QB, DE

Draft:

1. Jerry Hughes – DE, TCU

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

2. Pat Angerer – LB, Iowa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NpRbgzYTY0

3. Kevin Thomas – CB, Southern Cal

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TltqT7D8D_I

4. Jacques McClendon – G, Tennessee

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9f_Obm0Zi74

5. Brody Eldridge – TE, Oklahoma

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulV_O5UZE6U (at 2:05 mark)

7. Ricardo Mathews – DE, Cincinnati

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGh_uGzSPH8 (at 1:28 mark)

7. Kavell Conner – LB, Clemson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzgxywpm8wc (at 2:26 mark)

7. Ray Fisher – DB, Indiana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjBpDXKv6Fc

Jacksonville Jaguars

Team Losses – J. Henderson – DT, T. Holt – WR, T. Thomas – OT, Q. Groves – DE

Team Additions – A. Kampman – DE, K. Morrison – MLB, F. Keiaho – LB, K. Osgood – WR

Team Needs – LB, DT, S, QB, C, DE, WR

Draft:

1. Tyson Alualu – DT, California

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCjawbHQ2Ns

3. D’Anthony Smith – DT, Louisiana Tech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdX0jhm3ulI

5. Larry Hart – DE, Central Arkansas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxOvrOHGbU0

5. Austen Lane – DE, Murray State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLzaVpl0NUQ

6. Deji Karim – RB, Southern Illinois

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMpFoHv6kQM

6. Scotty McGee – KR, James Madison

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svRvZxTCTb4

Tennessee Titans

Team Losses – K. Vanden Bosch – DE, K. Bulluck (?) – LB, K. Mawae (?) – C, L. White – RB

Team Additions – W. Witherspoon – LB, J. Babin – DE, T. Hill – CB, C. Simms – QB

Team Needs – DE, CB, LB, G, WR, QB

Draft:

1. Derrick Morgan – DE, Georgia Tech

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDFUIyuqiH0

3. Damian Williams – WR, Southern Cal

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eggkv0Z0tQ

3. Rennie Curran – LB, Georgia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wndM8tc0SB8

4. Alterraun Verner – CB, UCLA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cZbjLR1l_c

5. Robert Johnson – S, Utah

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

6. Rusty Smith – QB, Florida Atlantic

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qf5qN7TfiA

6. Myron Rolle – S, Florida State

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsn1aIaYj-Y

7. Marc Mariani – WR, Montana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNM1NYBp0QQ

7. David Howard – DT, Brown

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLzaVpl0NUQ (at :22 mark)

Written by Frankie Underwood · Filed Under Football News | Leave a Comment

NFC South Draft Recap

May 22, 2010

The NFC South gave birth to the Super bowl Champion in 2009. However, despite the good play, many, many needs have arisen from each of the four teams in the division. The fastest, easiest way for teams to make up for their teams losses each year is the NFL Draft. Lets see how the NFC South did.

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons needed quite a few different things in order to make this year’s draft a success; a receiver to counteract Roddy White, help at linebacker, depth at defensive tackle, an offensive guard to solidify the line, and somebody who knows how to stop the pass (I know they have to defend Drew Brees, but when you play Carolina twice a year, ranking 28^th in pass defense doesn’t cut it).

With their first round pick (19^th) Atlanta decided to take Missouri linebacker Sean Weatherspoon. Now this is a great pick considering that he was the best player available; He’ll surely cure all their problems at linebacker; he can play all three linebacker positions. His combine results were top-of-the-line and his film backs it up. A very instinctive, playmaking linebacker, Weatherspoon will probably serve a huge role as a weak side backer in Atlanta’s Tampa Two defense. I say this pick was a huge success.

The Falcons had to wait until the end of the third round before their next selection came around. This time, big-boy Kentucky defensive tackle Corey Peters was the selection. Now Peters isn’t the ideal starting defensive tackle, in the sense that his technique isn’t where it needs to be in order to compete every down in the NFL. However, Peters will add another hard-working body to the defensive tackle rotation in Atlanta; that looks like a solid pick to me.

Now in order to get their offensive line under control, which wasn’t too bad in the first place (only allowing 27 sacks in 2009), they drafted Alabama offensive guard Mike Johnson and UNLV offensive guard Joe Hawley. Neither may be the immediate fix at offensive guard, however, they will provide much needed depth to Atlanta’s questionable offensive line. Johnson can be a solid backup as a rookie, while Hawley has the versatility to play any of the three interior positions. Hawley may not be quite as talented as Johnson, but will provide more help than many may expect. Okay so these two picks didn’t quite exemplify the offensive line, but it’ll work for the time being.

Well, so far so good for the Falcons. At this point, they’ve used every one of their picks in a good manner. However, with all the needs that Atlanta came into the draft needing, it’s nearly impossible to satisfy all of them; Roddy White’s still lonely out wide and the secondary didn’t get any better when you drafted two straight offensive guards. Yet, I think this is where the Falcons did the best job. Still needing some help in the secondary, Atlanta chose Oklahoma cornerback Dominique Franks. Franks is a surprisingly good fit for Atlanta’s Tampa Two defense and should excel with his great instincts and zone coverage. He may not be a starting corner at first, but could help out in packages that require more than four defensive backs such as nickel or dime.

At this point, the only need left for the Atlanta Falcons to fill is at receiver. Wide receiver Roddy White accounted for 85 receptions, 1153 receiving yards, and 11 touchdowns in 2009, so it’s safe to say that they have a #1 receiver. But other than that, the Falcons don’t’ have a guy that can pick up the slack (#2 receiver Michael Jenkins only had 635 receiving yards and one touchdown reception in 2009). So, with all this in mind, Atlanta picked up hybrid Kansas receiver Kerry Meier to fill their hole. Meier used to start at quarterback for the Jayhawks, but was converted to a receiver during his junior year. Ever since, Meier has been more than productive considering his circumstances. However, I don’t think that Meier is gonna be enough to satisfy that #2 spot. Hey, he might go out there and prove me wrong, but I haven’t seen enough proof to lead me to believe that this guy can be a productive receiver in the NFL. Picking up someone in the fifth round doesn’t exactly fill their need as well as it should. I’m not very impressed with how Atlanta handled that.

Overall Draft Grade: B

Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers came into the draft needing three main things; a quarterback to build their team around, someone for that quarterback to throw to, and some players that could stop the run for God’s sake (particularly at defensive end). Some fans argue that quarterback is not as big of a need as the media portrays it to be, however, when your team leader throws more picks per game than any other quarterback in the league, we got a problem. So, to fit this need, the Panthers looked to the draft for answers.

It was probably a very painful few hours in Carolina’s draft room, as they were forced to wait until the mid second round before their first pick arrived. When it did, and they saw that Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen was still on the board, they couldn‘t believe their eyes. What is it with Notre Dame quarterbacks these days? I don’t know, maybe Brady Quinn scared teams off. But no matter, Carolina jumped all over Clausen while he was still there and there probably isn’t a second that goes by that the Panthers regret their decision. Clausen has an NFL-ready arm and is very used to playing in a pro-style offense at Notre Dame. He can fire passes into small spaces and can put some touch on the ball in order to make it just over the defender and into the receivers hands. Clausen should have plenty of opportunities to blossom as a quarterback in Carolina. Running backs Jonothan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams should make him look good anyways (much like Mark Sanchez and the Jets).

Now for that player for him to throw to; the Panthers had another whack at the NFL Draft piñata, this time in the mid third round, and went with LSU receiver Brandon LaFell. LaFell was a player that was projected to go in the early-to-mid second round, but it wasn’t a huge shocker when he was still around at the 78^th pick. Carolina‘s #2 receiver Muhsin Muhammad is entering his 15^th season in 2010, so this is a very smart pick, as LaFell shouldn’t have to wait long before his spot opens up in the offense. During his junior and senior season at LSU, LaFell never really had an established quarterback to throw him the ball and still managed to put up 1721 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns during that two-year speriod; he’s probably thrilled to be starting along side a matured quarterback in Jimmy Clausen.

That’s two needs down with their first two picks, so I guess you can say that the Panthers had plenty of breathing room with eight picks left. However, drafting quarterback Tony Pike and wildcat quarterback Armanti Edwards in the later rounds, I guess you can say Carolina would rather be safe than sorry when it comes to quarterback. Don’t wanna take any more chances there. These two picks may not look like much of a significance at first, but this is really where Carolina’s draft is going to make a huge impact. Not only do they have one franchise quarterback (Clausen), but they have two (Pike)! Not to mention someone to take the snaps in the wildcat and give Deangelo Williams a break.

This is where the “great” part of the Panther’s draft ends and the “good” part begins. With Probowl defensive end Julius Peppers on his way out, Carolina needed a strong, balanced guy to take his spot. Drafting Ole Miss defensive end Greg Hardy may not be in the best interest for the Panthers. Hardy used to be a big-time, explosive player at Ole Miss, but wasn’t even a starter in 2010 because of how badly injuries have affected him; I don’t think Hardy is a very reliable replacement at defensive end. Well too bad that’s the only defensive lineman they drafted, cause they sure needed some help in the middle if you ask me. Ranking 22^nd in the league in rush defense, the line is in obvious need of repair. And don’t go blaming their linebacking core; middle linebacker Jon Beason racked up 141 tackles last year; he’s not the problem.

However, the Panthers did draft South Carolina outside linebacker Eric Norwood in the late fourth round. Norwood isn’t the best athlete, but he has instincts and playmaking skills that shows very great potential. Norwood actually reminds me of middle linebacker Jon Beason that I spoke of earlier. If Norwood turns out like Beason, then the Panthers may not need a defensive line for then next eight years.

Overall Draft Grade: B+

New Orleans Saints

Coming into 2010 as the defending Super Bowl champs, it’s hard to believe that the Saints have any needs whatsoever. However, with last year’s first-round selection Malcolm Jenkins being in a limbo between corner and safety, while free safety Darren Sharper’s career is coming to a close, New Orleans has a lot happening on the defensive side of the ball. Defensive tackle and linebacker are areas of concern and some how the secondary still isn’t up to par.

With their first round pick, 32^nd overall, the Saints took another chance with a corner, this time Florida State’s Patrick Robinson. All this means is that last year’s 16^th overall pick Malcolm Jenkins will have a chance to move to safety, hopefully solidifying the secondary; so, when are the Saints going to give the whole defensive back thing a rest? That’s three years in a row that they’ve selected a defensive back with their first round pick, meaning that those picks obviously didn’t make a big enough impact to direct their draft picks in another direction. Now Robinson is a speedy, athletic corner that closes in fast on the receiver. He has great see-to-do instincts and can make a play pretty much anywhere on the field; he didn’t fall into the first round on accident. Robinson can provide another solid developing corner to the Saints secondary and can hope to be starting along side Malcolm Jenkins in the near future.

The next two picks were a bit of a mystery to me; first of all, do the Saints really need another tight end? They had five on their roster last season. And it’s not like they’re all bad or anything, Jeremy Shockey is probably the best pass-catching tight end in the game and back up David Thomas has enough talent to be a starter for just about any other team. Anyways, the guy they drafted, Miami tight end Jimmy Graham, is an ex basket ball player that only played two years of college football. He was very productive during his time on the gridiron and reminds many of Chargers tight end Antonio Gates. It would be great if this guy turned out like Gates, heck, it’d be great if all six of their draft picks turned out as pro-bowlers; then Drew Brees would have to get used to throwing out of two tight end packages.

The Saints took USC offensive tackle Charles Brown in the late second round, fulfilling a potential need at tackle if Jammal Brown gets traded. Brown is a solid NFL tackle that has a certain potential to become a starter sometime during his career. 6’5” 305 pounds, his size is certainly good enough and has pretty good athleticism for a big guy. This is a solid pick by New Orleans, they took the best player available rather than someone to fill their immediate needs, but I think this pick will certainly pay off.

Trading up seven spots to draft LSU defensive tackle Al Woods was probably the best decision by the Saints this draft. He may not be that player that’ll just blow up the scene in New Orleans, but he’s a hometown hero in Baton Rouge and will attract plenty of fans. The college-NFL transition will be very easy and he’ll have tons have people pushing him for success. He was one of the best run stoppers in the nation last year and that’s exactly what the Saints are looking for in a defensive tackle. With a surprising draft up to this point, Al Woods just made it look better.

Moving to their last pick of the draft, the Saints drafted Oregon State quarterback Sean Canfield. Even though the Saints don’t have a very good history in drafting quarterbacks, this was a mediocre pick because they needed somebody be behind Drew Brees. If Brees were to get injured, the Saints wouldn’t be receiving their Super bowl rings this August. The need for a back up was exposed after Mark Brunell went unsigned this off season; in Brunells only start last season, he threw for 102 yards and one interception, so they’re not losing too much. Canfield is the type of quarterback that will be a good fit in New Orleans. He’s smart and accurate, much like Brees, and has great leadership skills; should be a great back up for the Saints.

Draft Grade: C

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers finished with the worst record in the NFC South, third worst in the NFL, and therefore had the third overall pick in the Draft. They needed quite a few things this draft, particularly on defense; two defensive tackles to satisfy the defensive line, help at defensive end, a play-making safety, someone at wide out, and maybe a guy or two to help out at linebacker.

Having the third pick of the NFL Draft, Tampa Bay had the opportunity to draft practically in player in the whole draft (outside the first two picks). Luckily, the Bucs chose the right year to be in need of a defensive tackle; Oklahoma defensive tackle Gerald McCoy fell right into their laps. One of the four Oklahoma players to be drafted in the top four picks, McCoy was slightly overshadowed by the presence of Nebraska counterpart Ndamukong Suh. Suh was drafted second overall by the Lions, leaing Tampa Bay with a defensive tackle of equal value. McCoy is an extremely quick and speedy defensive tackle that also has enough power and strength to fight off the double team. An all-around athlete that has virtually no weaknesses. Predictable, yet great pick by Tampa Bay.

Does everybody remember when Warren Sapp and Anthony McFarland ruled the LOS back in the early 2000’s? They actually won a Super Bowl with Tampa Bay if you recall. Well maybe that’s what they’re trying to recreate here by drafting UCLA defensive tackle Brian Price to follow up McCoy. Price brings more of a raw talent to the defensive line. He is very quick, like McCoy, but also is very violent in his play. Has great moves and is one of those guys that can really shoot a gap and stuff it. I like what the Buccaneers are trying to do here with their defensive line and I think both McCoy and Price have great potential starting next to each other.

Tampa Bay drafted two big-play receivers to quench their thirst for a receiver; Illinois receiver Arrelious Benn in the second round and Syracuse receiver Mike Williams in the fourth. Benn is a player that knows how to make guys miss and is a terrific worker, while Williams is very talented, yet had some off the field issues that put him at risk of not finding the field as much as wants to. The Buccaneers weren’t a very explosive offense in 2009, so adding these two receivers was a great way to add more talent around quarterback Josh Freeman.

In the later rounds, Tampa Bay addressed their nagging concern for a linebacker by not drafting one, but two solid players. Virginia Tech’s Cody Grimm and Florida State’s Dekoda Watson were both drafted in the seventh round by the Bucs. Both Grimm and Watson have enough drive and heart to be very effective special teams players as a rookie. Watson has more immediate potential to actually make a difference on defense, while Grimm may stick as a special teams player for most of his career.

As cornerback Ronde Barber is getting towards the point of retiring from the NFL, Tampa Bay looked for, and found, a replacement in this year’s Draft. Taking Vanderbilt corner Myron Lewis in the third round, Tampa Bay hopes that the retirement of Barber will not leave the secondary in ruins, but let a young star take over. Lewis has sound technique at every secondary position and is one of those guys that will impress wherever you put him. A good pick by the Bucs.

Overall Draft Grade: A

Written by William Queen · Filed Under Football News | Leave a Comment

NFC South Draft Recap

May 22, 2010

Atlanta Falcons

Overall Draft Grade: B

Carolina Panthers

Overall Draft Grade: B+

New Orleans Saints

Draft Grade: C

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Overall Draft Grade: A

Written by William Queen · Filed Under Football News | Leave a Comment

Khan Invaded the Garden and could have spelled an end for Malignaggi

May 17, 2010

NEW YORK -The end may have come for Paulie Malignaggi Saturday evening at the WaMu Theatre at Madison Square Garden The 4,412 fans in attendance, many among his supporters could not help “The Magic Man” stop an invasion from Englishman Amir Khan, who easily defended his WBA super lightweight title.

There may have been more interest coming from the various fights in the crowd. Supporters of Khan and Malignaggi went at it before the two fighters entered the ring Watching Khan, though take center stage for the first time on American soil took away the distractions from those who paid admission to stage their own fight.

So when referee Steve Smoger halted the bout at 1:25 of round 11.there was relief. Not because the fans would finally stop their war of words and trading of unauthorized throwing of fists. There was that sense of relief coming from all corners. If the fight continued, the battered Malignaggi may have been seriously hurt.

The 23-year old Khan, (23-1, 17 KO’s) retained his lightweight championship with speed and power. He easily won all but one round, possibly losing the fourth. All three judges gave Khan every round prior to the stoppage, and at the end of round four the left eye of Malinaggi needed attention in the corner.

“No disrespect to Paulie,” said the 140-pound champion who plans on unifying the division. “Paulie is a great awkward fighter I knew the last few rounds I was hurting him. I used my speed and power and my jab. Me and Freddie worked on it,” he said about trainer Freddie Roach.

Of course no disrespect to Malignaggi, (27-4, 5KO’S) a slugger. The round before the stoppage he pleaded with ringside physician Ostric King to continue when the doctor wanted to stop the fight. He fractured his jaw a few years ago against Miguel Cotto at Madison Square Garden and went to war with the tough Ricky Hatton.

There was a harsh war of words coming from Malignaggi during the week leading to the fight. The hometown hero, from Brooklyn New York, and Khan almost traded fists during the weigh- in a day before the fight.

But it was no match for Khan who proved he can be a marketable commodity in the states. Afterwards, his promoter, Richard Schafer of Golden Boy Promotions was talking about Khan highlighting a card at the Garden in November. Khan has the supporters and could sell out the Garden main arena.

Future opponents could be undefeated champions Timothy Bradley or Devon Alexander. Mandatory challenger Marcus Maidana is also on the list as a potential next opponent. Either fight for Khan would be a good match, and marketable for the Garden or another venue in the United States.

But you hear Khan, and where he would prefer his next fight to be held. ”I want to go home and fight in July,” he said referring to his hometown fans in the UK. “After that I want to fight all the big names. I want Maidina, Bradley, and Alexander. Bring them all on.”

Trainer Freddie Roach has no preference either. He has groomed Khan to adjust for any opponent, similar to what he does with his welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao. “He controlled the fight with the jab.” said Roach. “That was the key factor. It worked all night. We had a very good game plan and he stuck with it. I told him to finish him and he did it.” eHe controlled the fight with the jab,”

And for Malignaggi, there may be no other options. His promoter, Lou DiBella would like to see his fighter go home, hang up the gloves, possibly pursue a career as a television boxing analyst. Malignaggi made over $450,000 for this fight and with the loss there are no other title opportunities coming his way.

It may no longer be “Magic Time” for Malignaggi in the ring and he could be a perfect guy behind the mike at ringside. In defeat there was the analysis. “He’s better than Ricky Hatton was,” said Malinaggi about Khan.

On the co main event Victor Ortiz (27-2-1, 21 KO’s) the native of Ventura California won a 10-round super lightweight unanimous decision over Nate Campbell (33-6-1,25KO’s), Through four rounds it was a one- sided fight with Ortiz fighting inside and getting the best of Campbell. At the end of the fifth it was Ortiz throwing punches in the ropes and Campbell failing to fight back

Coming off his win over Hector Akatore in February, Ortiz reiterated is plan to fight again soon, possibly on another Garden card that would feature Khan. The story though was Ortiz taking it to Campbell in the fifth round. The two fighters had some words as they were throwing punches.

Said Ortiz, “He said to me, ‘you get me down you are going down with me.’” That set the tone for what Ortiz wanted to do and that was trying to knock out Campbell. “My intention was to knock him out. He tried to use his experience against me. He’s very experienced,”

Also on the card, Brooklyn middleweight Danny Jacobs remained undefeated (20-0, 17 KO’s) stopping Juan Astorga (14-5-1, 9 KO’s) in the second round and won the NABF middleweight title..

e-mail Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

Written by Rich Mancuso · Filed Under Other Sports | Leave a Comment

So Long, Mr. Harwell

May 16, 2010

The Detroit Tigers happened to be out of town this past May 4th–playing at the new Target Field in Minnesota. Soon came the seventh-inning stretch and a picture of a smiling Ernie Harwell graced the stadium’s bright, new big screen. The news was then announced–though many fans were already privy to the inevitable: the Hall of Fame Tigers broadcast legend had just lost his months-long battle with inoperable cancer. The 39,000 fans in attendance responded with a warm, standing ovation; some of them wiped away tears while younger patrons–perhaps not too familiar with the man–just KNEW some type of honorary tribute was still in order. Yeah, the Tigers didn’t just lose a game that evening; I guess the loss of a legend always has a bit more sting to it than an “L” in the standings.

A sportscaster who was acquired by the Brooklyn Dodgers for a catcher in 1948, Ernie Harwell went on to spend 42 of his 55 broadcasting years with the Detroit Tigers–his sweet, Southern diction gracing the Motor City over the course of five glorious decades. It’s extremely difficult to describe what made Mr. Harwell great; I guess legends do that on occasion to us admiring scribes. But let me try: he was easygoing, smooth, and his voice was unmistakable; fellow Hall of Famer Vin Scully simply used the words “gentle” and “caring” in describing a man whose catch phrases enthralled even the most casual of baseball fans. When radio listeners/TV viewers heard the words “LOOOOONG GONE!” (home run) or “TWO FOR THE PRICE OF ONE!” (double play) while Ernie Harwell worked a broadcast, they KNEW these were coming from a man who simply loved the game of baseball. Nope–nothing forced, nothing meant to be self-serving, and never any self-promoting “shtick” from one Mr. Harwell. It was just one man demonstrating the love of his craft while relaying info to an audience who truly loved him back–probably more than he ever realized.

Oh, what a thrill on those rare occasions in the past when I’d be watching a televised “game of the week” and be treated to a live ‘look in’ on a Tigers game for some particular reason–and hear Ernie Harwell describing the action in a manner nothing short of magical. He possessed the type of demeanor and delivery that made you FEEL like he was your friend; yeah, what a gift. And he was magical OUT of the booth, too. Baseball writer/rules consultant Rich Marazzi on Harwell: “I first met Ernie at Yankee Stadium around 1982 as a rookie writer and he made me feel like a million dollars. He was so friendly and it made me proud that he always called me by my first name. He was baseball royalty–and I was privileged to know him.” Shelly Riley–a contributor to Seamheads.com who was recently present on a day when Harwell would lie in internment at Comerica Park–added this: “Ernie was a man of the people–an everyone’s man. Regardless of whether you had ever physically met him or not, you felt as if you had a close personal connection to him. Losing Ernie was like losing a grandparent; we all knew his death was coming, but no one wanted to admit it.” Finally, Tony DeAngelo–my co-host on CTV-14′s “Monday Night Sports Talk“–remembered Harwell this way: “Just to hear him say ‘Gary Roenicke was left standing at that curveball like the house by the side of the road and watched it go by’–that told me everything I needed to know about Ernie. He brought such a color and respect to the game; when you heard the voice of Ernie Harwell, you knew you were listening to a special event.”

I never had the opportunity to meet Ernie Harwell personally, but was lucky enough to interview him last year on ESPN Radio’s “Inside Yankee Baseball” shortly after the death of former Tigers pitcher Mark Fidrych. He talked fondly about his memories of “The Bird”–graciously answering me with the same warmth that had engulfed so many others over his remarkable lifetime. He was real, he was genuine–and for those few cherished minutes became MY friend; it would be from THAT day forward–after experiencing his wonderful persona over the airwaves–that I’d always refer to him as “the GREAT Ernie Harwell.” Yes, I’ll always treasure the opportunity I had to converse with a true “journalistic giant” whose personality made me feel like we were equals; to him, it was just two guys talking baseball. Thanks for that, Ernie.

Currently, a life-size statue of Ernie Harwell graces the entrance to Detroit’s Comerica Park; the press box, called the “Ernie Harwell Media Center,” now stands as a tribute to a man–or should I say “friend to many”–whose contributions to sports journalism surely remain beyond the scope of one particular weekly column. After calling his last game back in 2002, part of Harwell’s final words to his listeners were as follows: “It’s time to say goodbye, but I think goodbyes are sad and I’d much rather say hello–hello to a new adventure. I’m not leaving, folks–I’ll still be with you.”

Yes, Mr. Harwell–goodbyes ARE sad–so I’ll just say “So long” for now. And yes–you’re STILL not leaving–as your legacy assures that you’ll always be in the hearts and minds of many.

Written by Bob Lazzari · Filed Under Baseball News | Leave a Comment

Hall of Fame Detroit Tigers Broadcaster Honored Posthumously By WFUV

May 16, 2010

Ernie Harwell was one of three giants honored for a lifetime of superior work in their chosen craft at WFUV’s annual Spring Gala at Gotham Hall on Wednesday, May 5. For each of the past three years, Fordham University’s radio station WFUV, (90.7 FM), has honored three individuals during its annual fundraiser. On Wednesday, Bob Scheiffer received the Charles Osgood Lifetime Achievement Award, Levon Helm received the WFUV Sound & Vision Award and Harwell would have been given the Vin Scully Lifetime Achievement Award. Unfortunately, Harwell passed away at his home in Michigan on the day before his honor was to be bestowed.

The 92 year-old sports broadcaster had been diagnosed with cancer less than a year ago. Harwell opted not to receive surgery. He courageously battled the disease without losing his good humor or strong religious faith. Al Kaline, one of the greatest players in Detroit Tigers history and a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame since 1980 accepted the award for his longtime friend. Kaline recalled his first meeting with Harwell, “I met him as a Baltimore broadcaster in 1954. We became friends right from the start. “Kaline played with the Tigers from 1953 through the 1974 season and was a broadcaster for the team from 1975 through the 2002 season. Thus, he was in close proximity with Harwell for decades, even though the two worked together in the broadcast booth for only one year. His advice to Kaline was expressed in words he himself always followed, “He told me to be myself, and to be as honest as I can.” He vividly recalled to reporters a four day cruise the two men and their wives took. It was during those days that Kaline truly realized the breadth and depth of Harwell’s interests and his knowledge of so many subjects.

Harwell became connected to the sport of baseball as a young boy in Atlanta when he served as a batboy for the minor league Atlanta Crackers. After graduation from Emory University, Harwell began work as a newspaperman. He was broadcasting games on the radio for Atlanta when he was ‘traded” to the Brooklyn Dodgers for a minor league catcher, Cliff Draper. He travelled north to replace the ailing Red Barber during the 1948 season. After two seasons with the Dodgers, Harwell was replaced by a young graduate of Fordham University, Vin Scully. It’s interesting to note, as Scully would say, that more than six decades later, Harwell would be granted an award in Scully’s name by the Fordham University radio station. Harwell would have been pleased to be a recipient of the honor. Kaline related, “Ernie told me that he thought Vin Scully was the best broadcaster he ever heard.”

Harwell’s career did not end after parting with the Dodgers. He remained in New York City calling games for the New York Giants from 1950-1953. When Baltimore gained a Major League franchise in 1954, Harwell broadcast Orioles games through 1959. In the following year, he began his long association with the Detroit Tigers. He did play-by-play for the Tigers through the 2002 season with the exception of the years 1991-93 when the team’s then ownership replaced him. During the 1992 season, he worked for the California Angels. Although he broadcast other sports and nationally broadcast baseball games, he is most closely associated with Detroit.

Kaline said of Harwell, “He was the most revered and loved person in sports in the state of Michigan.” The Detroit baseball superstar described the qualities that made Harwell stand out as a broadcaster, “[The qualities are] the way he interacted with the fans, his knowledge, his love of baseball and the way he told stories. The one thing I think is missing today are broadcasters who can tell stories. He knew the game was first and ego didn’t get in the way.” The accomplished CBS newsman Bob Sceiffer, another of the evening’s honorees said it was special to get an award with Harwell, “He [Harwell] loved baseball and he loved people. He did his homework and always knew what he was talking about.” Scheiffer recalled listening to Harwell broadcast Tigers game when the station’s signal was strong at night and marveling at Harwell’s skill.

Even more important than Harwell’s skills as a broadcaster were his qualities as a special human being. Kaline remembered, “He was a person you could feel comfortable with. He was that way we everybody. He always had a smile. I’ve known him and celebrate the kind of man he was. We were lucky to have him. {His death] is like losing a parent.”

Written by Howard Goldin · Filed Under Baseball News | Leave a Comment

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The Rise and Fall of JaMarcus Russell

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NFC South Draft Recap

Khan Invaded the Garden and could have spelled an end for Malignaggi

So Long, Mr. Harwell

Hall of Fame Detroit Tigers Broadcaster Honored Posthumously By WFUV

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