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Packers 53 Man Roster: Analysis & Moves
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<blockquote data-quote="TOPHAT" data-source="post: 164484" data-attributes="member: 781"><p><strong>NFL ROSTER CUTS: HIGHLIGHTS</strong></p><p></p><p><a href="http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7180864?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=5" target="_blank">http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7180864?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=5</a></p><p></p><p><strong>From A-Z, the highlights of NFL roster cuts </strong></p><p></p><p>From Adams (Titus) to Zabransky (Jared), here is a quick division-by-division look at the major player cuts made Friday and Saturday as NFL teams pared their rosters to 53 players entering the 2007 regular season:</p><p></p><p><strong>AFC EAST</strong></p><p></p><p>BUFFALO BILLS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Trent Edwards has proven so impressive as a 2007 third-round pick that he is now Buffalo's backup quarterback behind J.P. Losman following Craig Nall's release.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Terrance Pennington, who entered camp projected to serve as a swing backup at tackle, was beaten out for that role by Kirk Chambers.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: With only four healthy ends on the roster, Buffalo's injury problems along its defensive line could prove an early-season weakness.</p><p></p><p>MIAMI DOLPHINS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Being released by a team hurting for quality depth at wide receiver is proof that Az-Zahir Hakim's nine-year NFL career is basically over.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: One year after signing and releasing Fred Beasley during the preseason, Miami struck out again on another over-the-hill free-agent signing at fullback after releasing former Detroit Lions starter Cory Schlesinger.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: A preseason of curious media statements and decisions by coach Cam Cameron reached its zenith in Thursday's preseason finale against New Orleans. Stating he wanted to have the opportunity to better evaluate players, Cameron surrendered the head coaching duties to defensive coordinator Dom Capers and let tight ends coach Mike Mularkey and linebackers coach George Edwards handle Miami's offensive and defensive play-calling respectively. Why do I get the feeling Cameron might ultimately fall under the category of successful assistants who were ill-suited for head coaching roles?</p><p></p><p>NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Not every oldie-but-goodie can make New England's opening-game roster as quarterback Vinny Testaverde and linebacker Chad Brown were released. Testaverde could be re-signed after the first week of the season when his entire 2007 salary wouldn't be guaranteed.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The rumors that surfaced about New England potentially releasing wide receiver Randy Moss because of concerns about his durability as well as the quality depth the Patriots have at the position. My feeling is New England won't cut bait on a potential impact player like Moss only a few months after acquiring him from Oakland for a fourth-round draft choice.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: An 18-play, 90-yard drive in the first half of New England's third preseason game against Carolina could be a harbinger of success to come for the Patriots offense.</p><p></p><p>NEW YORK JETS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: As a former member of the Bengals, defensive end Kimo Von Oelhoffen will always be remembered for the hit that destroyed Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer's knee in a 2005 playoff game when he played for Pittsburgh. Von Oelhoffen now has the chance to return if the Bengals are interested following his Jets release.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: It's not that Andre Wadsworth was cut but that the defensive end-turned-linebacker survived as long as he did this preseason despite not having played since the 2000 season because of major knee problems.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Quarterback Chad Pennington should be looking over his shoulder at Kellen Clemens, who rebounded from a poor off-season to push for a starting spot. Pennington has a better grasp of offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer's system, but Clemens' superior arm strength makes him a more attractive long-term option.</p><p></p><p><strong>AFC SOUTH</strong></p><p></p><p>HOUSTON TEXANS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: The Texans should have known Keenan McCardell had little left in the tank when Cameron — who worked with him as San Diego's offensive coordinator the past three seasons — didn't show any interest in adding the 37-year-old to a suspect wide receiver corps during the off-season.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Chad Stanley — the only punter in franchise history — couldn't withstand the challenge of 39-year-old journeyman Matt Turk for a roster spot.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: I'm hearing rumblings that defensive end Mario Williams continues to show no signs of being a more worthy selection with the No. 1 pick in the 2006 draft than running back Reggie Bush (New Orleans) or quarterback Vince Young (Tennessee).</p><p></p><p>INDIANAPOLIS COLTS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: De De Dorsey entered the preseason touted as a potential backup to running back Joseph Addai but he lost that job — and his roster spot — to Canadian Football League alumnus Kenton Keith.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Despite losing Anthony McFarland to a season-ending knee injury, Colts President Bill Polian told me Friday night that he is confident Indianapolis has enough depth to compensate for the defensive tackle's absence. Who am I to question the man who constructed Indianapolis' Super Bowl-winning roster?</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: The NFL shouldn't have scheduled Indianapolis' final preseason contest just six days before its regular-season opener against New Orleans, which has an entire week between games to prepare.</p><p></p><p>JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: I am stunned by the release of quarterback Byron Leftwich. Those I spoke to in the Jaguars organization during training camp were raving about how sharp Leftwich looked with a new offensive coordinator (Dirk Koetter) and a surgically repaired ankle. I get the feeling this cut stemmed from a tempestuous relationship with coach Jack Del Rio rather than Leftwich's up-and-down preseason showing.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: The return of linebacker Mike Peterson and defensive end Reggie Heyward from season-ending injuries in 2006 will bolster a potentially dominating defense and make the Jaguars a legitimate playoff contender despite the current turmoil on offene.</p><p></p><p>TENNESSEE TITANS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Tim Rattay, an 18-game starter during his eight-year NFL career, wasn't impressive enough to convince Tennessee to carry a third quarterback or beat out backup Kerry Collins.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Three-year starter Lamont Thompson was released after losing his starting free safety spot to Calvin Lowry.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Unless some unproven players at Tennessee's skill positions begin to emerge, don't be surprised if Titans quarterback Vince Young experiences the dreaded sophomore slump.</p><p></p><p><strong>AFC NORTH</strong></p><p></p><p>BALTIMORE RAVENS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: After a strong rookie season in 2004, wide receiver Clarence Moore's gradual slide ended with his being cut.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Troy Smith survived the final roster cuts despite looking raw during preseason games.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Nose tackle Haloti Ngata — all 340 pounds of him — being deployed as a blitzing middle linebacker in some pass-rush packages? Pray for opposing quarterbacks who hold onto the football too long.</p><p></p><p>CINCINNATI BENGALS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: A prized free-agent signing by Atlanta in 2005, Ed Hartwell's release shows how far the linebacker has fallen after two injury-plagued seasons.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The Bengals are thin at defensive tackle but seven-year NFL veteran Kendrick Allen still failed to survive final roster cuts.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: After watching Doug Johnson's two-interception outing in Friday's preseason finale against Indianapolis, I blogged that the Bengals should inquire about Leftwich. Instead, Cincinnati released Johnson on Saturday and traded with St. Louis to acquire Ryan Fitzpatrick as a potential backup to starting quarterback Carson Palmer.</p><p></p><p>CLEVELAND BROWNS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Because he played under offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski at the University of Miami, I thought Ken Dorsey had a better chance of sticking as Cleveland's third-string quarterback than Derek Anderson.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Although he didn't play in the preseason, safety Gary Baxter will be given a chance to become only the second player in NFL history to return after suffering two torn patella tendons on the same play.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: I understand coach Romeo Crennel's decision to start third-year veteran Charlie Frye ahead of ballyhooed rookie quarterback Brady Quinn with the Browns facing four of the NFL's nine top-ranked defenses from 2006 (Pittsburgh, Baltimore, New England and Miami) in their first six games.</p><p></p><p>PITTSBURGH STEELERS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Chukky Okobi entered training camp as Pittsburgh's starting center and left with a pink slip as Sean Mahan has won the job.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The Steelers are struggling so badly to find a returner that the franchise traded a 2008 conditional draft pick to Atlanta for declining safety Allen Rossum.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: The transition from head coach Bill Cowher to replacement Mike Tomlin has seemingly gone more smoothly than anyone in Steelers management could have hoped.</p><p></p><p><strong>AFC WEST</strong></p><p></p><p>DENVER BRONCOS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy, the former first-round draft pick who was acquired in an off-season trade with St. Louis, continues to disappoint and was released after failing to land a starting spot.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Kyle Johnson won't be returning for a fourth season as Denver's starting fullback.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Rod Smith's hip problems are worse than what he had initially let on, which raises questions about whether one of the most prolific wide receivers in Broncos history can sufficiently recover at age 37. Smith will open the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.</p><p></p><p>KANSAS CITY CHIEFS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: He wasn't released, but running back Priest Holmes will open the season on Kansas City's reserve/non-football injury list as he struggles to make a comeback from a chronic neck ailment.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Third-string quarterback Casey Printers had a higher preseason quarterback rating (73.4) than Brodie Croyle (34.5) and seemed more comfortable operating Kansas City's offense, albeit against reserves as opposed to starters. But the Chiefs will enter the season carrying only two quarterbacks as Printers was waived on Saturday.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Chiefs trainers — Get the Monday morning ice tub ready. The only way Kansas City wins this season is if running back Larry Johnson receives 25-plus touches a game.</p><p></p><p>OAKLAND RAIDERS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Safety Donovin Darius was a ballyhooed signing late in the off-season stemming from his standout career in Jacksonville. But a source said Darius ran afoul of Raiders owner Al Davis, which led to his release.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Pass-rushers are at a premium in the NFL yet the Raiders waived defensive end Quentin Moses, a 2007 third-round draft choice.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Considering the breadth of media covering the NFL, I can't see how Oakland coach Lane Kiffin expects to keep under wraps whether Daunte Culpepper or Josh McCown will be his starting quarterback for the Sept. 9 regular-season opener against Detroit.</p><p></p><p>SAN DIEGO CHARGERS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Safety Bhawoh Jue, a six-year NFL veteran, was the only notable name on San Diego's cut list.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Nothing worth mentioning from one of the NFL's most talent-stacked teams.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Even though he was rested throughout the preseason, LaDainian Tomlinson has earned heavy praise from first-year Chargers coach Norv Turner, who was the running back's first NFL offensive coordinator in 2001.</p><p></p><p>"I've coached against him the past five years whether I was in Miami, Oakland or San Francisco so I know how good he is," Turner told FOXSports.com. "But until you're back with a guy, you truly forget how good a player he is. He's one of a kind."</p><p></p><p><strong>NFC EAST</strong></p><p></p><p>DALLAS COWBOYS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: After starting the final three preseason games in place of the injured Terrence Newman, Aaron Glenn showed so little that he was released despite the lack of a proven replacement as Dallas' nickel cornerback.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: All eight 2007 draft picks made a roster already chock full of young talent.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Keep a close eye on rookie kicker Nick Folk, who is being given a chance to prove himself with Martin Gramatica (hamstring) being placed on injured reserve Saturday.</p><p></p><p> </p><p>The only Hasselbeck left in New York is Tim's wife, Elisabeth, co-star on The View. (Jim Rogash / Getty Images) </p><p></p><p>NEW YORK GIANTS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Tim Hasselbeck. Well, the quarterback's wife is Elisabeth Hasselbeck of The View fame.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The Giants could have avoided sending a conditional draft pick to Kansas City by releasing kicker Lawrence Tynes, an off-season acquisition who had a so-so preseason. Instead, the Giants kept Tynes and released a player (Josh Huston) who had a better field-goal percentage and showed a stronger leg on kickoffs.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: The Giants should be thrilled that defensive end Michael Strahan decided to return after considering retirement. A shaky Giants secondary, which will probably play more press coverage under new coordinator Steve Spagnulo than in 2006, should benefit from the quarterback pressure provided by Strahan, fellow end Osi Umenyiora and outside linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka. Had Strahan not returned, New York may have been forced to return Kiwanuka to the end position he played as a rookie in 2006.</p><p></p><p>PHILADELPHIA EAGLES</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Dirk Johnson had proven an effective punter the past four seasons when it came to net average but the Eagles see more upside in former Australian Rules specialist Sav Rocca.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Jeremy Bloom proved better on the slopes than on the gridiron. A 2006 fifth-round pick who spent all of his rookie season on injured reserve, Bloom's athleticism as a two-time Olympic skier failed to transfer in his attempts to become Philadelphia's primary returner.</p><p></p><p>In his defense, Bloom suffered a toe injury in the preseason opener and could return to Philadelphia's practice squad if he clears waivers. Wide receiver Greg Lewis is the frontrunner to handle return duties.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: Just having quarterback Donovan McNabb look so sharp after suffering a major knee injury last season made Philadelphia's preseason a success.</p><p></p><p>WASHINGTON REDSKINS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Renaldo Wynn, a versatile veteran defensive lineman, had his six-year tenure with the Redskins end.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Mark Brunell hasn't gotten traded yet, although Leftwich may have surpassed him as the NFL's top option for a team seeking a backup quarterback.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: After being outscored 104-27 with an 0-4 record in the 2006 preseason, Washington finished this year's exhibition campaign with a 2-2 mark while only being outscored 56-51. That includes quarterback Jason Campbell receiving only limited action because of a bruised knee.</p><p></p><p><strong>NFC NORTH</strong></p><p></p><p>CHICAGO BEARS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Although he led the University of Florida to a national championship as a senior, quarterback Chris Leak couldn't beat out Kyle Orton or Brian Griese for a roster spot.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: I thought working with a new quarterbacks coach (Pep Hamilton) who stresses fundamentals would make a difference for Rex Grossman, who remained far too erratic in his preseason play.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: By running away after crashing his Lamborghini on a Chicago-area highway, Bears linebacker Lance Briggs may have affected his stock as a free agent in 2008. If I were a general manager interested in Briggs, I would make sure my big-money offer contains specific protective language that allows for the recoupment of signing bonus in case of an off-field incident.</p><p></p><p>DETROIT LIONS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Barry Stokes is on the road again, as he was released from his seventh different team despite being an 11-game starter at guard in 2006.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Chicago cut quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan in June after believing he had no chance of making their final roster. But one team's trash is another's treasure, as O'Sullivan has seemingly bypassed Dan Orlovsky for a backup role behind Jon Kitna.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: The Lions have to hope that a secondary now missing starting free safety Daniel Bullocks (knee/injured reserve) will improve after being embarrassed during their third preseason game against Indianapolis. Colts quarterback Peyton Manning systematically picked apart Detroit's cover-two scheme by completing 23 of 27 passes for 233 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions.</p><p></p><p>GREEN BAY PACKERS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Fantasy football players should note that Green Bay is sticking with rookie Mason Crosby as its kicker after releasing Dave Rayner, who probably won't be out of work for long.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: After some shaky moments in his first two NFL preseasons, Aaron Rodgers finally looks like a potential heir apparent to quarterback Brett Favre.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: The second-to-last preseason game is usually a dress rehearsal for the regular season, which is why I was alarmed to see the Packers rush for only 10 yards on nine carries in a 21-13 loss to Jacksonville. The Packers can't expect to lean on Brett Favre heavily and have consistent success at this point in his storied career.</p><p></p><p>MINNESOTA VIKINGS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Running back Ciatrick Fason, a 2005 fourth-round draft choice, failed to expand upon his short-yardage role as a rookie and was released.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Billy McMullen had career highs in catches (23), yards (307) and touchdowns (two) in 2006 but the four-year veteran wasn't able to crack a roster sorely lacking veteran depth at wide receiver.</p><p></p><p>One preseason thought: The Vikings were wise to add a veteran presence behind unproven quarterback Tarvaris Jackson when acquiring Kelly Holcomb from Philadelphia via trade.</p><p></p><p>NFC SOUTH</p><p></p><p>ATLANTA FALCONS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: The revolving door at kicker in Atlanta continues with Matt Prater beating out Billy Cundiff for the job.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The Falcons haven't made a move yet to acquire a veteran backup behind new starting quarterback Joey Harrington.</p><p></p><p>One preseason thought: No team should cherish a 3-1 preseason more than Atlanta, which was grasping for any positive news in light of the Michael Vick scandal.</p><p></p><p>CAROLINA PANTHERS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Kenyatta Walker didn't find his professional career unfold any better with the Panthers than he did as a first-round draft bust at Tampa Bay.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The Panthers finally cut ties with running back Eric Shelton, who was a major disappointment as a 2005 second-round pick.</p><p></p><p>One preseason thought: I wouldn't be surprised if starting quarterback Jake Delhomme was on a short leash with David Carr standing on the sideline.</p><p></p><p>NEW ORLEANS SAINTS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: At this point, linebacker Dhani Jones is known more for his potential as an NFL analyst than a player. The seven-year veteran failed to crack a linebacker corps that, while improved this off-season with the free-agent addition of Brian Simmons (Cincinnati), won't remind anyone of the Baltimore Ravens.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: <strong>Running back Antonio Pittman, a ballyhooed 2007 fourth-round pick from Ohio State, was beaten out for a roster spot by veteran Aaron Stecker and rookie free agent Pierre Thomas (Illinois).</strong></p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: The Saints may have shown the most preseason improvement from being smoked by Pittsburgh in the Hall of Fame game to destroying Kansas City in their fourth exhibition contest.</p><p></p><p>TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Defensive tackle Ellis Wyms tied for the team lead in sacks last season with five but became a victim of a Buccaneers youth movement across their front four.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The Buccaneers are holding onto four quarterbacks, with Chris Simms managing to survive despite his struggles in coming back from a 2006 spleen injury.</p><p></p><p>One preseason observation: The Buccaneers have to hope that quarterback Jeff Garcia can compensate for a lack of playmakers at tight end and No. 2 wide receiver.</p><p></p><p>NFC WEST</p><p></p><p>ARIZONA CARDINALS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Punter Scott Player, whose 44.9-yard gross average in 2006 was the highest of his nine-year NFL career with the Cardinals, was released in favor of a waiver-wire acquisition (Mike Barr) who has never punted in a regular-season game</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: It doesn't reflect well on a team's college scouting staff when a 2007 third-round pick is cut like undersized linebacker Buster Davis was on Saturday.</p><p></p><p>One preseason thought: Don't underestimate the loss of outside linebacker Chike Okeafor (triceps) as a pass rusher in Arizona's new 3-4 scheme.</p><p></p><p>ST. LOUIS RAMS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: James Alston, a 2006 third-round draft pick, couldn't sufficiently handle his linebacker duties in Jim Haslett's defense.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The Rams continue to court Simeon Rice despite already having two high-priced defensive ends in Leonard Little and James Hall.</p><p></p><p>One preseason thought: I know the Rams' offense was inconsistent. But when the unit finally comes together, how are defenses going to stop so much skill-position talent orchestrated by a quarterback (Marc Bulger) with a higher career completion rate than Peyton Manning? </p><p></p><p>SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: After playing his first four NFL seasons in Philadelphia, defensive lineman Sam Rayburn was unable to stick in San Francisco's 3-4 defensive scheme.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: Wide receiver Bryan Gilmore — a three-game starter in 2006 — failed to make this year's roster.</p><p></p><p>One preseason thought: It was difficult to gauge the state of San Francisco's offense with running back Frank Gore sidelined for the entire preseason with a broken hand.</p><p></p><p>SEATTLE SEAHAWKS</p><p></p><p>Biggest name: Fifth-year cornerback Pete Hunter was beaten out for a reserve spot in Seattle's secondary.</p><p></p><p>Biggest surprise: The Seahawks were able to add a player Saturday who could potentially be an impact pass-rusher when acquiring Jason Babin from Houston for Michael Boulware, who should push for a starting spot as the Texans' strong safety.</p><p></p><p>One preseason thought: If defensive tackle Marcus Tubbs (knee) didn't have bad luck, he'd have no luck at all. The absence of the oft-injured Tubbs for the entire 2007 season could adversely affect Seattle's run defense.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="TOPHAT, post: 164484, member: 781"] [b]NFL ROSTER CUTS: HIGHLIGHTS[/b] [url]http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7180864?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=5[/url] [b]From A-Z, the highlights of NFL roster cuts [/b] From Adams (Titus) to Zabransky (Jared), here is a quick division-by-division look at the major player cuts made Friday and Saturday as NFL teams pared their rosters to 53 players entering the 2007 regular season: [b]AFC EAST[/b] BUFFALO BILLS Biggest name: Trent Edwards has proven so impressive as a 2007 third-round pick that he is now Buffalo's backup quarterback behind J.P. Losman following Craig Nall's release. Biggest surprise: Terrance Pennington, who entered camp projected to serve as a swing backup at tackle, was beaten out for that role by Kirk Chambers. One preseason observation: With only four healthy ends on the roster, Buffalo's injury problems along its defensive line could prove an early-season weakness. MIAMI DOLPHINS Biggest name: Being released by a team hurting for quality depth at wide receiver is proof that Az-Zahir Hakim's nine-year NFL career is basically over. Biggest surprise: One year after signing and releasing Fred Beasley during the preseason, Miami struck out again on another over-the-hill free-agent signing at fullback after releasing former Detroit Lions starter Cory Schlesinger. One preseason observation: A preseason of curious media statements and decisions by coach Cam Cameron reached its zenith in Thursday's preseason finale against New Orleans. Stating he wanted to have the opportunity to better evaluate players, Cameron surrendered the head coaching duties to defensive coordinator Dom Capers and let tight ends coach Mike Mularkey and linebackers coach George Edwards handle Miami's offensive and defensive play-calling respectively. Why do I get the feeling Cameron might ultimately fall under the category of successful assistants who were ill-suited for head coaching roles? NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS Biggest name: Not every oldie-but-goodie can make New England's opening-game roster as quarterback Vinny Testaverde and linebacker Chad Brown were released. Testaverde could be re-signed after the first week of the season when his entire 2007 salary wouldn't be guaranteed. Biggest surprise: The rumors that surfaced about New England potentially releasing wide receiver Randy Moss because of concerns about his durability as well as the quality depth the Patriots have at the position. My feeling is New England won't cut bait on a potential impact player like Moss only a few months after acquiring him from Oakland for a fourth-round draft choice. One preseason observation: An 18-play, 90-yard drive in the first half of New England's third preseason game against Carolina could be a harbinger of success to come for the Patriots offense. NEW YORK JETS Biggest name: As a former member of the Bengals, defensive end Kimo Von Oelhoffen will always be remembered for the hit that destroyed Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer's knee in a 2005 playoff game when he played for Pittsburgh. Von Oelhoffen now has the chance to return if the Bengals are interested following his Jets release. Biggest surprise: It's not that Andre Wadsworth was cut but that the defensive end-turned-linebacker survived as long as he did this preseason despite not having played since the 2000 season because of major knee problems. One preseason observation: Quarterback Chad Pennington should be looking over his shoulder at Kellen Clemens, who rebounded from a poor off-season to push for a starting spot. Pennington has a better grasp of offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer's system, but Clemens' superior arm strength makes him a more attractive long-term option. [b]AFC SOUTH[/b] HOUSTON TEXANS Biggest name: The Texans should have known Keenan McCardell had little left in the tank when Cameron — who worked with him as San Diego's offensive coordinator the past three seasons — didn't show any interest in adding the 37-year-old to a suspect wide receiver corps during the off-season. Biggest surprise: Chad Stanley — the only punter in franchise history — couldn't withstand the challenge of 39-year-old journeyman Matt Turk for a roster spot. One preseason observation: I'm hearing rumblings that defensive end Mario Williams continues to show no signs of being a more worthy selection with the No. 1 pick in the 2006 draft than running back Reggie Bush (New Orleans) or quarterback Vince Young (Tennessee). INDIANAPOLIS COLTS Biggest name: De De Dorsey entered the preseason touted as a potential backup to running back Joseph Addai but he lost that job — and his roster spot — to Canadian Football League alumnus Kenton Keith. Biggest surprise: Despite losing Anthony McFarland to a season-ending knee injury, Colts President Bill Polian told me Friday night that he is confident Indianapolis has enough depth to compensate for the defensive tackle's absence. Who am I to question the man who constructed Indianapolis' Super Bowl-winning roster? One preseason observation: The NFL shouldn't have scheduled Indianapolis' final preseason contest just six days before its regular-season opener against New Orleans, which has an entire week between games to prepare. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS Biggest surprise: I am stunned by the release of quarterback Byron Leftwich. Those I spoke to in the Jaguars organization during training camp were raving about how sharp Leftwich looked with a new offensive coordinator (Dirk Koetter) and a surgically repaired ankle. I get the feeling this cut stemmed from a tempestuous relationship with coach Jack Del Rio rather than Leftwich's up-and-down preseason showing. One preseason observation: The return of linebacker Mike Peterson and defensive end Reggie Heyward from season-ending injuries in 2006 will bolster a potentially dominating defense and make the Jaguars a legitimate playoff contender despite the current turmoil on offene. TENNESSEE TITANS Biggest name: Tim Rattay, an 18-game starter during his eight-year NFL career, wasn't impressive enough to convince Tennessee to carry a third quarterback or beat out backup Kerry Collins. Biggest surprise: Three-year starter Lamont Thompson was released after losing his starting free safety spot to Calvin Lowry. One preseason observation: Unless some unproven players at Tennessee's skill positions begin to emerge, don't be surprised if Titans quarterback Vince Young experiences the dreaded sophomore slump. [b]AFC NORTH[/b] BALTIMORE RAVENS Biggest name: After a strong rookie season in 2004, wide receiver Clarence Moore's gradual slide ended with his being cut. Biggest surprise: Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Troy Smith survived the final roster cuts despite looking raw during preseason games. One preseason observation: Nose tackle Haloti Ngata — all 340 pounds of him — being deployed as a blitzing middle linebacker in some pass-rush packages? Pray for opposing quarterbacks who hold onto the football too long. CINCINNATI BENGALS Biggest name: A prized free-agent signing by Atlanta in 2005, Ed Hartwell's release shows how far the linebacker has fallen after two injury-plagued seasons. Biggest surprise: The Bengals are thin at defensive tackle but seven-year NFL veteran Kendrick Allen still failed to survive final roster cuts. One preseason observation: After watching Doug Johnson's two-interception outing in Friday's preseason finale against Indianapolis, I blogged that the Bengals should inquire about Leftwich. Instead, Cincinnati released Johnson on Saturday and traded with St. Louis to acquire Ryan Fitzpatrick as a potential backup to starting quarterback Carson Palmer. CLEVELAND BROWNS Biggest name: Because he played under offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski at the University of Miami, I thought Ken Dorsey had a better chance of sticking as Cleveland's third-string quarterback than Derek Anderson. Biggest surprise: Although he didn't play in the preseason, safety Gary Baxter will be given a chance to become only the second player in NFL history to return after suffering two torn patella tendons on the same play. One preseason observation: I understand coach Romeo Crennel's decision to start third-year veteran Charlie Frye ahead of ballyhooed rookie quarterback Brady Quinn with the Browns facing four of the NFL's nine top-ranked defenses from 2006 (Pittsburgh, Baltimore, New England and Miami) in their first six games. PITTSBURGH STEELERS Biggest name: Chukky Okobi entered training camp as Pittsburgh's starting center and left with a pink slip as Sean Mahan has won the job. Biggest surprise: The Steelers are struggling so badly to find a returner that the franchise traded a 2008 conditional draft pick to Atlanta for declining safety Allen Rossum. One preseason observation: The transition from head coach Bill Cowher to replacement Mike Tomlin has seemingly gone more smoothly than anyone in Steelers management could have hoped. [b]AFC WEST[/b] DENVER BRONCOS Biggest name: Defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy, the former first-round draft pick who was acquired in an off-season trade with St. Louis, continues to disappoint and was released after failing to land a starting spot. Biggest surprise: Kyle Johnson won't be returning for a fourth season as Denver's starting fullback. One preseason observation: Rod Smith's hip problems are worse than what he had initially let on, which raises questions about whether one of the most prolific wide receivers in Broncos history can sufficiently recover at age 37. Smith will open the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS Biggest name: He wasn't released, but running back Priest Holmes will open the season on Kansas City's reserve/non-football injury list as he struggles to make a comeback from a chronic neck ailment. Biggest surprise: Third-string quarterback Casey Printers had a higher preseason quarterback rating (73.4) than Brodie Croyle (34.5) and seemed more comfortable operating Kansas City's offense, albeit against reserves as opposed to starters. But the Chiefs will enter the season carrying only two quarterbacks as Printers was waived on Saturday. One preseason observation: Chiefs trainers — Get the Monday morning ice tub ready. The only way Kansas City wins this season is if running back Larry Johnson receives 25-plus touches a game. OAKLAND RAIDERS Biggest name: Safety Donovin Darius was a ballyhooed signing late in the off-season stemming from his standout career in Jacksonville. But a source said Darius ran afoul of Raiders owner Al Davis, which led to his release. Biggest surprise: Pass-rushers are at a premium in the NFL yet the Raiders waived defensive end Quentin Moses, a 2007 third-round draft choice. One preseason observation: Considering the breadth of media covering the NFL, I can't see how Oakland coach Lane Kiffin expects to keep under wraps whether Daunte Culpepper or Josh McCown will be his starting quarterback for the Sept. 9 regular-season opener against Detroit. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS Biggest name: Safety Bhawoh Jue, a six-year NFL veteran, was the only notable name on San Diego's cut list. Biggest surprise: Nothing worth mentioning from one of the NFL's most talent-stacked teams. One preseason observation: Even though he was rested throughout the preseason, LaDainian Tomlinson has earned heavy praise from first-year Chargers coach Norv Turner, who was the running back's first NFL offensive coordinator in 2001. "I've coached against him the past five years whether I was in Miami, Oakland or San Francisco so I know how good he is," Turner told FOXSports.com. "But until you're back with a guy, you truly forget how good a player he is. He's one of a kind." [b]NFC EAST[/b] DALLAS COWBOYS Biggest name: After starting the final three preseason games in place of the injured Terrence Newman, Aaron Glenn showed so little that he was released despite the lack of a proven replacement as Dallas' nickel cornerback. Biggest surprise: All eight 2007 draft picks made a roster already chock full of young talent. One preseason observation: Keep a close eye on rookie kicker Nick Folk, who is being given a chance to prove himself with Martin Gramatica (hamstring) being placed on injured reserve Saturday. The only Hasselbeck left in New York is Tim's wife, Elisabeth, co-star on The View. (Jim Rogash / Getty Images) NEW YORK GIANTS Biggest name: Tim Hasselbeck. Well, the quarterback's wife is Elisabeth Hasselbeck of The View fame. Biggest surprise: The Giants could have avoided sending a conditional draft pick to Kansas City by releasing kicker Lawrence Tynes, an off-season acquisition who had a so-so preseason. Instead, the Giants kept Tynes and released a player (Josh Huston) who had a better field-goal percentage and showed a stronger leg on kickoffs. One preseason observation: The Giants should be thrilled that defensive end Michael Strahan decided to return after considering retirement. A shaky Giants secondary, which will probably play more press coverage under new coordinator Steve Spagnulo than in 2006, should benefit from the quarterback pressure provided by Strahan, fellow end Osi Umenyiora and outside linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka. Had Strahan not returned, New York may have been forced to return Kiwanuka to the end position he played as a rookie in 2006. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES Biggest name: Dirk Johnson had proven an effective punter the past four seasons when it came to net average but the Eagles see more upside in former Australian Rules specialist Sav Rocca. Biggest surprise: Jeremy Bloom proved better on the slopes than on the gridiron. A 2006 fifth-round pick who spent all of his rookie season on injured reserve, Bloom's athleticism as a two-time Olympic skier failed to transfer in his attempts to become Philadelphia's primary returner. In his defense, Bloom suffered a toe injury in the preseason opener and could return to Philadelphia's practice squad if he clears waivers. Wide receiver Greg Lewis is the frontrunner to handle return duties. One preseason observation: Just having quarterback Donovan McNabb look so sharp after suffering a major knee injury last season made Philadelphia's preseason a success. WASHINGTON REDSKINS Biggest name: Renaldo Wynn, a versatile veteran defensive lineman, had his six-year tenure with the Redskins end. Biggest surprise: Mark Brunell hasn't gotten traded yet, although Leftwich may have surpassed him as the NFL's top option for a team seeking a backup quarterback. One preseason observation: After being outscored 104-27 with an 0-4 record in the 2006 preseason, Washington finished this year's exhibition campaign with a 2-2 mark while only being outscored 56-51. That includes quarterback Jason Campbell receiving only limited action because of a bruised knee. [b]NFC NORTH[/b] CHICAGO BEARS Biggest name: Although he led the University of Florida to a national championship as a senior, quarterback Chris Leak couldn't beat out Kyle Orton or Brian Griese for a roster spot. Biggest surprise: I thought working with a new quarterbacks coach (Pep Hamilton) who stresses fundamentals would make a difference for Rex Grossman, who remained far too erratic in his preseason play. One preseason observation: By running away after crashing his Lamborghini on a Chicago-area highway, Bears linebacker Lance Briggs may have affected his stock as a free agent in 2008. If I were a general manager interested in Briggs, I would make sure my big-money offer contains specific protective language that allows for the recoupment of signing bonus in case of an off-field incident. DETROIT LIONS Biggest name: Barry Stokes is on the road again, as he was released from his seventh different team despite being an 11-game starter at guard in 2006. Biggest surprise: Chicago cut quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan in June after believing he had no chance of making their final roster. But one team's trash is another's treasure, as O'Sullivan has seemingly bypassed Dan Orlovsky for a backup role behind Jon Kitna. One preseason observation: The Lions have to hope that a secondary now missing starting free safety Daniel Bullocks (knee/injured reserve) will improve after being embarrassed during their third preseason game against Indianapolis. Colts quarterback Peyton Manning systematically picked apart Detroit's cover-two scheme by completing 23 of 27 passes for 233 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. GREEN BAY PACKERS Biggest name: Fantasy football players should note that Green Bay is sticking with rookie Mason Crosby as its kicker after releasing Dave Rayner, who probably won't be out of work for long. Biggest surprise: After some shaky moments in his first two NFL preseasons, Aaron Rodgers finally looks like a potential heir apparent to quarterback Brett Favre. One preseason observation: The second-to-last preseason game is usually a dress rehearsal for the regular season, which is why I was alarmed to see the Packers rush for only 10 yards on nine carries in a 21-13 loss to Jacksonville. The Packers can't expect to lean on Brett Favre heavily and have consistent success at this point in his storied career. MINNESOTA VIKINGS Biggest name: Running back Ciatrick Fason, a 2005 fourth-round draft choice, failed to expand upon his short-yardage role as a rookie and was released. Biggest surprise: Billy McMullen had career highs in catches (23), yards (307) and touchdowns (two) in 2006 but the four-year veteran wasn't able to crack a roster sorely lacking veteran depth at wide receiver. One preseason thought: The Vikings were wise to add a veteran presence behind unproven quarterback Tarvaris Jackson when acquiring Kelly Holcomb from Philadelphia via trade. NFC SOUTH ATLANTA FALCONS Biggest name: The revolving door at kicker in Atlanta continues with Matt Prater beating out Billy Cundiff for the job. Biggest surprise: The Falcons haven't made a move yet to acquire a veteran backup behind new starting quarterback Joey Harrington. One preseason thought: No team should cherish a 3-1 preseason more than Atlanta, which was grasping for any positive news in light of the Michael Vick scandal. CAROLINA PANTHERS Biggest name: Kenyatta Walker didn't find his professional career unfold any better with the Panthers than he did as a first-round draft bust at Tampa Bay. Biggest surprise: The Panthers finally cut ties with running back Eric Shelton, who was a major disappointment as a 2005 second-round pick. One preseason thought: I wouldn't be surprised if starting quarterback Jake Delhomme was on a short leash with David Carr standing on the sideline. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS Biggest name: At this point, linebacker Dhani Jones is known more for his potential as an NFL analyst than a player. The seven-year veteran failed to crack a linebacker corps that, while improved this off-season with the free-agent addition of Brian Simmons (Cincinnati), won't remind anyone of the Baltimore Ravens. Biggest surprise: [b]Running back Antonio Pittman, a ballyhooed 2007 fourth-round pick from Ohio State, was beaten out for a roster spot by veteran Aaron Stecker and rookie free agent Pierre Thomas (Illinois).[/b] One preseason observation: The Saints may have shown the most preseason improvement from being smoked by Pittsburgh in the Hall of Fame game to destroying Kansas City in their fourth exhibition contest. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS Biggest name: Defensive tackle Ellis Wyms tied for the team lead in sacks last season with five but became a victim of a Buccaneers youth movement across their front four. Biggest surprise: The Buccaneers are holding onto four quarterbacks, with Chris Simms managing to survive despite his struggles in coming back from a 2006 spleen injury. One preseason observation: The Buccaneers have to hope that quarterback Jeff Garcia can compensate for a lack of playmakers at tight end and No. 2 wide receiver. NFC WEST ARIZONA CARDINALS Biggest name: Punter Scott Player, whose 44.9-yard gross average in 2006 was the highest of his nine-year NFL career with the Cardinals, was released in favor of a waiver-wire acquisition (Mike Barr) who has never punted in a regular-season game Biggest surprise: It doesn't reflect well on a team's college scouting staff when a 2007 third-round pick is cut like undersized linebacker Buster Davis was on Saturday. One preseason thought: Don't underestimate the loss of outside linebacker Chike Okeafor (triceps) as a pass rusher in Arizona's new 3-4 scheme. ST. LOUIS RAMS Biggest name: James Alston, a 2006 third-round draft pick, couldn't sufficiently handle his linebacker duties in Jim Haslett's defense. Biggest surprise: The Rams continue to court Simeon Rice despite already having two high-priced defensive ends in Leonard Little and James Hall. One preseason thought: I know the Rams' offense was inconsistent. But when the unit finally comes together, how are defenses going to stop so much skill-position talent orchestrated by a quarterback (Marc Bulger) with a higher career completion rate than Peyton Manning? SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS Biggest name: After playing his first four NFL seasons in Philadelphia, defensive lineman Sam Rayburn was unable to stick in San Francisco's 3-4 defensive scheme. Biggest surprise: Wide receiver Bryan Gilmore — a three-game starter in 2006 — failed to make this year's roster. One preseason thought: It was difficult to gauge the state of San Francisco's offense with running back Frank Gore sidelined for the entire preseason with a broken hand. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS Biggest name: Fifth-year cornerback Pete Hunter was beaten out for a reserve spot in Seattle's secondary. Biggest surprise: The Seahawks were able to add a player Saturday who could potentially be an impact pass-rusher when acquiring Jason Babin from Houston for Michael Boulware, who should push for a starting spot as the Texans' strong safety. One preseason thought: If defensive tackle Marcus Tubbs (knee) didn't have bad luck, he'd have no luck at all. The absence of the oft-injured Tubbs for the entire 2007 season could adversely affect Seattle's run defense. [/QUOTE]
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