THE "ATL" REPORT
Around the League
Thomas Jones still seeking new deal….
The Jets leading rusher last season has finally joined the team on the practice field for their current OTA workouts, but don’t be fooled Jones is still looking for a new deal. He had missed the previous voluntary workouts hoping to have his contract renegotiated, but that has yet to happen
Raven McClain getting fit for his role….
The Ravens leading runner a year ago with over 900-yards on the ground and 10 rushing touchdowns is quickly adapting to his new role in Baltimore. LeRon McClain will be asked to block more this season for the Ravens as their starting full-back. So to better prepare for his role, McClain has added 20 pounds to his frame. He’ll be a better fit as a lead blocker, but could still be used effectively in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
Todd Heap limited during OTA workouts….
The Raven’s starting tight end is currently being limited to individual drills due to a lower back injury. The past couple of seasons Heap has been a huge disappointment in Baltimore the past couple of seasons. In 2008 nagging injuries limited him to just 35 receptions, although he did play in all 16 games. This followed a 2007 campaign that saw Heap miss 10 games. If Heap can not shake the injury bug, he could lose his spot as the started to newly acquired TE L.J. Smith (signed in the offseason).
Harvin and Vikings could be going Wild in 2009
The Vikings are quickly trying to cash out as much value from their 1st round selection in the 2009 Draft. Rookie wide receiver Percy Harvin has been lining up in several different positions during the team’s recent OTA practices. It appears the coaches are going to make every effort to get Harvin as many touches as possible and in a variety of ways. He’s been returning kicks, punts, lining up in the slot, and in the backfield in the “Wildcat” formation. The team is specifically designing plays for Harvin in an effort to take advantage of his playmaking skills.
Brandon Marshall seeking new deal, Really?….
The Bronco’s leading pass catcher the past two seasons, has been as big a disappointment off the field as he has been a success on. In 2008 Marshall led the team with 104 receptions and over 1,200-yards, but after receiving a one game suspension at the start of the season he could not leave his off the field troubles behind when the season ended. Marshall has been involved in seven reported incidents off the field and could face another possible suspension at the start of this season. He is now asking for a pay raise from the team and wants to renegotiate his rookie contract which is in the final year. Really?
Driver looking to renegotiate his deal in Green Bay….
The Packers aging but still capable veteran receiver is looking to renegotiate a new deal in Green Bay. Driver has been absent from the teams voluntary workouts, but it’s being reported this is not reflective of his desire to get a new deal. Driver was the team’s second leading receiver with 74 receptions and just over 1,000-yards. He’ll likely have to wait until the team deals with resigning Greg Jennings, the team’s leading receiver.
Crabtree not expected to join team until Training camp….
Remember Crabtree was a non-participant at the NFL combine earlier in the year due to a foot injury that required surgery. The team is likely being very cautious about not bringing him back on the field too soon. The explosive receiver out of the University of Missouri was selected 10th overall in the 2009 NFL Draft and is expected to compete for a starting job in San Francisco.
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