Earlier today, I wrote an article for baltimoresun.com about former Maryland tight end Joey Haynos, who is down in Florida training for the NFL combine with Tom Shaw, a former New England Patriots strength and conditioning coach.

I was able to talk to Shaw for about 30 minutes earlier this week, and his story is an interesting one. Shaw worked at Florida State from 1985-1994 as the assistant track coach, and he also worked with the football program, which had standout athletes like Deion Sanders.

Shaw then went on to New Orleans to work with the Saints, but agents liked the work he did with Florida State athletes in terms of combine preparation, and they began sending their clients to him in Kenner, La.

The business has prospered ever since. According to his Web site, 94 first-round draft picks, six No. 1 overall picks and the last six Super Bowl MVPs have trained with Shaw. Here's a video of him working with Tom Brady.

In 2005, Shaw had to move his operation to Florida after Hurricane Katrina.

"The facility was damaged, and FEMA put all those workers and tents there so there was no way we'd have been able to run the camp there that year," he said.

That brought Shaw to Lake Buena Vista, Fla. and Disney. This year, 32 athletes are training there in preparation for the combine, including high-profile names like LSU's Glenn Dorsey and Kentucky quarterback Andre Woodson. Agents typically pick up the tab, knowing sending their clients to Shaw is a smart investment.

"It's all been positive," said Haynos' agent Scott Smith of XAM Sports. "I've yet to have a player that I've sent down to Tom Shaw who hasn't been very pleased with him and his program."

Shaw's camp caters to combine-specific drills like the 40-yard dash and the bench press (players are asked to do 225 pounds as many times as possible). But he also brings in former and current players like Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor to work with the athletes on more football-related drills.

"The key is to make everything a competition," Shaw said, adding that five of the six fastest 40-yard dash times at last year's combine trained with him.

The accommodations for the players are luxurious. They stay at the Regal Palms Resort and have access to the amenities at the Disney complex, including the pools, locker room, training room, weight room, chiropractor and more. Four days a week, the athletes take part in two separate training sessions. On Wednesdays, they work in the pool, and on Saturdays, they work on their bench press. Sundays are for recovery.

Shaw is in contact with personnel guys around the league who ask him about specific players, but not in the way you might think.

"Bill Belichick always tells me, 'If they can play, it'll be on the videotape,'" Shaw said. "He wants to know things like: Does he show up on time? Is he the first one to drills? How smart is he? Is he high maintenance?"

Shaw said the camp also provides media specialists, who talk to athletes about how to deal with reporters. And former players who advise them on how to spend their money. Even ex-athletes who went through messy divorces and have been left "without a dime."

All with the focus of getting them prepared for the combine and life in the NFL.

For a description on what a day of training consists of, check out the article.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 1:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
                    

Let's start in Washington, where the Redskins are still without a coach. They interviewed Colts assistant Ron Meeks for a second time yesterday. Former Ravens offensive coordinator Jim Fassel is still considered the favorite. If you watched NFL Network at all yesterday, you know a new name has surfaced: Steve Mariucci. Now a TV analyst, Mariucci indicated that he'd potentially be interested in getting back into coaching, but said there's nothing to talk about at this point. Patriots' offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who previously declined an interview request with the Ravens, isn't closing the door on a potential interview with the Redskins, according to The Washington Times. McDaniels is only 31-years-old.

Moving on, if there's only one story you read today, it should be this one on tight end Jerramy Stevens. Seattle Times reporters Ken Armstrong and Nick Perry outline a pattern of disturbing behavior, dating back to Stevens' time at the University of Washington -- where he played for Rick Neuheisel -- and beyond. Stevens was accused of rape among other things, but he was constantly given another chance, even in the NFL. It's hard to describe this lengthy piece in just one paragraph, but it's a must-read. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on it.

Remember the Nov. 26 Monday night game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins at Heinz Field? You might not remember any of the football stuff, but the awful condition of the field was a hot topic at the time. According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Steelers are tearing out the grass at Heinz Field, but they haven't decided what to do next.

The Browns extended Romeo Crennel's contract earlier this week, and now free agent running back Jamal Lewis says he wants to stay in Cleveland, according to Cleveland.com. Here's what his agent Mitch Frankel said:

"Jamal feels he can play three years at a very, very high level and even beyond that," Frankel said. "His goal is to be able to work out a contract with the Browns and remain there for the rest of his career. We have one month before the start of free agency to make that goal a reality."

There's been some talk from readers about Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald possibly being dealt. He's owed $16.5 million this season, but the Cardinals hope to work out a long-term deal that would reduce his enormous cap number, according to the East Valley Tribune. Here's what Fitzgerald said:

"I want to be a Cardinal. I enjoy it here. I love my teammates. I love working for the Bidwills.”

And finally, this is an NFL blog so I guess we have to talk about the Super Bowl (even though I'm not a big fan -- more on this later in the week). The Boston Globe is offering advanced sales for a book titled, 19-0: The Historic Championship Season of New England's Unbeatable Patriots. First of all, that title is way too long. Second of all, I only mention this because I remember watching a clip of Bill Belichick before Super Bowl XXXIX. He was standing in front of his team, going over the route for the Philadelphia Eagles' championship parade, which had already been planned prior to the game. A motivational tactic, if you will. Wonder if Tom Coughlin will pull up amazon.com this week and show his team the book listing.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 1:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)
                    

The Ravens will announce the hiring of Jerry Rosburg as special teams coordinator at a 2 p.m. news conference this afternoon at Owings Mills.

Rosburg spent last season as special teams coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. Before that, he spent six years coaching the Cleveland Browns' special-teams unit.

Rosburg, 52, also was a college coach for 20 years, including a two-year stint (1999-2000) as Notre Dame's cornerbacks and special teams coach.

Here's what he told the Atlanta Falcons' Web site about his philosophy for special teams in a Q&A last season:

Special teams has a role, in my view, that goes beyond the fundamentals of field position. We want to be a tempo setter. I think that many times the personality of a team can be represented very well by special teams. If you have a kickoff team that is going downfield and mauling people, keeping a team inside the 20 and are excited about what they are doing, and we are changing the field with our return game and guys are excited about that -- these are things we are going to take pride in how we play.

Frank Gansz Jr. spent the last two seasons as the Ravens' special teams coordinator.

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh spent nine seasons as the special-teams coach of the Philadelphia Eagles before shifting to secondary coach in his final year there.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 10:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
                    

Do your job and don't get noticed.

Isn't that what we want from our franchise offensive tackles?

Boise State's Ryan Clady (6 feet 6, 317 pounds) is hoping to be just that. He decided to skip his senior season with the Broncos and is expected to be a first-round pick.

Can't remember having ever seen Clady in action? Think back to the 2007 Fiesta Bowl between Boise State and Oklahoma, a game that delivered one of the greatest endings in recent memory. With Boise State trailing, 42-41, the Broncos ran the Statue of Liberty as quarterback Jared Zabransky handed the ball behind his back to Ian Johnson who scampered into the end zone for a two-point conversion. Here's the video:

Now check out Clady, No. 79. Sure, it wasn't a monster block, and nobody who watches this highlight will really notice him, but Clady helped seal off Oklahoma defenders as Johnson went in for the score.

To help get a better handle on what kind of player Clady is, I called on Brian Murphy, who has been a sports columnist for the Idaho Statesman since 2005. He co-authored a book -- Blue Magic: Boise State’s inspiring journey to a Fiesta Bowl win -- on the Broncos’ unbeaten 2006 season.

Q: What are Clady's strengths as an offensive lineman?

A: At 6-foot-6 and 317 pounds, Clady certainly has the size to play tackle in the NFL. But what impresses scouts the most are his footwork and athleticism at that size. At Boise State, he often pulled or blocked out in front of screens, showing remarkable agility for a man his size.

Q: What gave him trouble in college and might be something he needs to improve on at the next level?

A: Not too many players were able to give him trouble in college, especially in the Western Athletic Conference. He probably had a better sophomore season than junior campaign. He was beaten at a couple crucial times during his junior season against the highest-level competition. Such lapses were few and far between, however. No doubt at the professional level, Clady will have to improve his strength.

Q: What kind of offense does Boise State run? Describe Clady's performance in pass-blocking compared to run-blocking.

A: Boise State runs a very complex, diverse and balanced offense. It’s one that should prepare him well for the NFL. Clady was solid in the run game and the pass game. He might be a better run blocker than pass blocker at this point. Clady played defensive line in high school. So he should continue to get better at offensive line as he accumulates more experience.

Q: What can you tell us about Clady off the field? What was his relationship like with teammates, the media and the coaching staff?

A: Clady is a very quiet guy. Teammates joke that he hasn’t said more than two words to them. Clady definitely got more comfortable during his time at Boise State. Teammates say he can be funny and engaging, but he rarely spoke with the media. During several one-on-one interviews, Clady opened up and, though soft-spoken, is engaging. His mother passed away when he was young and he was raised by his father and extended family.

Q: What went into Clady's decision go skip his senior season?

A: I’m not sure what was left for Clady to accomplish at Boise State. Having won the Fiesta Bowl as a sophomore and garnered a closet full of individual honors, Clady didn’t have much more to gain on the team or individual level. It’s hard to imagine his stock getting any higher. And Clady expressed a desire to take care of his younger siblings — he has three of them. First-round money will help with that.

Q: Did Clady have a signature moment as a college player? If so, what was it?

A: Clady caught a pass for a touchdown in a blowout victory during his junior season. He flipped the ball, LaDainian Tomlinson-style, and then jumped into the crowd, Lambeau Leap style. His teammates mobbed him. That the play was called back because of a penalty didn’t seem to matter.

But the play he will forever be associated with at Boise State is the Statue of Liberty 2-point conversion that gave the Broncos an overtime victory against Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl. It was Clady -- along with tight end Derek Schouman (now with the Buffalo Bills) -- who sealed off the left side of the line allowing Ian Johnson to run in untouched for the game-winning score.

More on Clady

ESPN.com's Mel Kiper Jr. has Clady ranked as the No. 9 player overall:

An excellent left tackle prospect with athletic ability and solid technique that will make him a great blindside protector in the NFL.

In his most recent mock draft, Kiper has Clady being selected at No. 12 by the Denver Broncos.

Here are Clady's statements about his decision to forgo his senior season on KTVB.com.

Clady was named a first-team All-American by the AFCA and Sporting News.

For previous draft profiles on BC quarterback Matt Ryan and Virginia defensive end Chris Long, click here.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
                    

It's Super Bowl week, and that means you can bet on anything (if you're doing it legally in Vegas of course).

During the season, we went through lines for every game so it's only fitting we take a look at some of the wagers available for the Super Bowl. By the way, fellow blogger Bill Ordine touched on some prop bets in a Friday post so be sure to check out his entry.

Here are some noteworthy prop bets, courtesy of sportsbook.com.

Game MVP: During the season, when I wrote about Tony Romo, I had a policy of not mentioning Jessica Simpson's name. I would like to implement the same policy with Tom Brady and his boot...starting now. Brady is a 1 to 2 favorite to win the MVP. $200 to win $100. Quite a heavy favorite. Eli Manning is second at 7 to 2. Quarterbacks have won the award 21 times, but just twice in the past five years. Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes is 25 to 1. Who in their right mind would possibly take that bet? I like Plaxico Burress as a sleeper in this category. If the Giants are to pull the upset, he'll have to have a monster game. Burress was a monster in freezing conditions against the Packers, catching 11 balls for 154 yards. And two of the last three MVPs (Hines Ward, Deion Branch) have been wide receivers. By the way, ex-Raven Adalius Thomas is listed at 50 to 1.

Player to score first TD: I actually nailed this one a couple years ago when I picked Ben Roethlisberger to run it in for the first touchdown. It was my proudest gambling moment ever. But I digress. According to Vegas, Randy Moss is the favorite to find the end zone first at 9 to 2. Next are Patriots running back Laurence Maroney and wide receiver Wes Welker at 7 to 1. Burress is next at 8 to 1. I'll take Brandon Jacobs in this one. He's scored in all three playoff games and has five TDs in his last five games. Jacobs is listed at 10 to 1. If you're feeling really ambitious, Giants fullback Madison Hedgecock is getting 40 to 1 odds.

Kobe Bryant: The Lakers play the Wizards on Super Bowl Sunday so you can even involve Kobe in some of your wagers. For instance, one bet asks who will score more -- Bryant or the Patriots? Bryant's averaging just under 28 points per game while the Patriots averaged just under 37 points per game during the regular season. New England has scored 31 and 21 in two playoff games. I'll take Bryant in this one. There are others also: Welker receptions vs. Bryant free throws made; Jacobs rushing attempts vs. Bryant first-half points; Brady completions vs. Bryant field-goal attempts; Brady touchdown passes vs. Bryant three-pointers made. What do you think?

Other sports: Maybe you're not an NBA fan. There's other cross-sport wagering. North Carolina plays Florida State Sunday in college hoops. Who will score more points -- the Tar Heels' Wayne Ellington (averaging just under 17 per game) or the Giants? Come to think of it, I really like this one for New York. The G-Men are good for at least 21 points right? Ellington's only scored more than 21 once in his last eight games. Hmm...

Golf enthusiasts? How about Tiger Woods' fourth-round birdies against Moss receptions?

Soccer lovers -- Giants+Patriots interceptions vs. Newcastle+Middlesbrough goals.

Even the NHL gets some love -- Jaromir Jagr shots on goal vs. Total QB sacks by both teams.

Who knew Jagr still played hockey?

I'll sprinkle some more ridiculous prop bets throughout my posts in the next few days. Also look for more draft profiles, including one on Louisville quarterback Brian Brohm.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 12:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
                    

No football today for the first time since Sept. 2, a span of 20 Sundays. What are you going to do with yourself? Before we begin the ridiculousness that is Super Bowl week, here's a roundup of weekend news:

Let's start in Cleveland. The Browns have reportedly made offers to both running back Jamal Lewis and quarterback Derek Anderson, who are pending free agents. According to The Plain Dealer, Cleveland made a two-year proposal to Lewis and a three-year proposal to Anderson. Anderson is a restricted free agent. Lewis is not.

Lewis averaged 4.4 yards per carry and had 1,304 yards in his first season in Cleveland, good enough for fifth in the NFL. It was Lewis' highest rushing total since 2003.

Anderson's 29 touchdown passes were fifth-best in the league, but he did get picked off 19 times, with four of those coming in what turned out to be a crucial Week 16 loss to the Bengals. Anderson is only 24-years-old, but the Browns drafted Brady Quinn in the first round last season.

In Washington, Gregg Williams, who was interviewed four times for the Redskins' head coaching job, was told the search would go on without him as he was released. Williams is free to interview with other teams. According to The Washington Post, the Titans and Rams have asked for permission to speak with Williams. Former assistant Greg Blache replaces Williams.

The Redskins also have released offensive coordinator Al Saunders, who will be replaced by former Seahawks assistant Jim Zorn. As for the head coach, The Washington Post and ESPN are reporting that Jim Fassel is still the favorite, but the Redskins are expected to interview Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

Meanwhile in Pittsburgh, Hines Ward seemed to take exception with Ben Roethlisberger's request to have a taller receiver. Here are some quotes that appeared in a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article:

"I'm always going to ask for a tall receiver," Roethlisberger said in an interview with the Post-Gazette. "That's just me. Our receivers are unbelievable, but our tallest guy might be Hines. Or Santonio [Holmes]. Hines is going to say he's 6 foot, but he's 5-11."

"I don't hear Tom Brady or Peyton Manning asking for that," Ward said. "I don't know, whatever he says. I have no idea. To me, it's a rare combination of receivers out there who are good and tall. We won a Super Bowl, we didn't have a tall receiver then. I don't see Tom Brady caring about who's tall or not. He got Randy this year, but he did it before without him. ... To me, I have enough problems to worry about than what Ben wants -- I can't give him the contract,'' Ward said, referring to Roethlisberger's wish to have a contract extension as soon as possible. "He wants a tall receiver? Why did we draft Santonio?"

And finally, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported that Raiders owner Al Davis drew up a resignation letter for coach Lane Kiffin. According to the report, Davis wants to push Kiffin out and is considering going after Dennis Green. The NFL Network reports that Kiffin and the Raiders are working on a settlement, and ex-Redskins coordinator Saunders (see above) could interview in Oakland.

Note: As many of you pointed out, I originally misstated the name of the Redskins' new offensive coordinator.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)
                    

ESPN.com's Allison Wachs recently ranked every performance for Super Bowl starting quarterbacks. Thought I'd share her thoughts on where Baltimore quarterbacks rank:

Wachs has former Ravens quarterback Trent Dilfer at No. 50 for his performance in Super Bowl XXXV:

12-25, 153 yards, 1 TD, 0 interceptions in 34-7 win over Giants. Dilfer did his best to just stay out of the way while the Ravens' defense dominated. He had a 38-yard touchdown pass and would have done even more damage if he hadn't missed open receivers on several occasions.

She has the Colts' Johnny Unitas at No. 76 for his performance in Super Bowl V:

3-9, 88 yards, 0 TD, 2 interceptions in 16-13 win over Cowboys. Unitas is the lowest-ranked winning quarterback on our list. Not only did he struggle when he was in the game, he left the game in the first half with an injury and was replaced by Earl Morrall.

Note: As pointed out by reader Thomas, Unitas in fact threw a 75-yard touchdown pass to John Mackey in the second quarter even though the ESPN.com article says he didn't have a TD.

And finally Earl Morrall for his performance in the Colts' 16-7 loss to the Jets in Super Bowl III:

6-17, 71 yards, 0 TD, 3 interceptions in 16-7 loss to Jets. Morrall, the regular season MVP, put up an ugly showing despite his Colts being heavily favored. The Colts' only touchdown came on a drive led by Johnny Unitas, who came off the bench to replace Morrall.

For the record, Wachs has Joe Montana's performance in Super Bowl XXIV ranked No. 1:

22-29, 297 yards, 5 TD, 0 interceptions in a 55-10 win over Broncos. Montana was spectacular in winning his third Super Bowl MVP, throwing for a then-record five TDs and completing 76 percent of his passes against a Broncos team that boasted the top scoring defense in the NFL that season.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 12:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
                    

Every time you hear Chris Long's name from now until the draft, you're going to hear about his "motor."

What exactly does that mean? The defensive end from Virginia doesn't take plays off. He goes hard on every down and wears down opponents.

Listed at 6 feet 4, 282 pounds on ESPN.com, Long appears to be a lock to be a top-five pick come draft time. Scouts, Inc. has him listed as the No. 2 player overall, and Mel Kiper Jr. has Long fourth on his "Big Board." Mock drafts seem to think the St. Louis Rams, who have the second overall pick, could be a likely landing spot for him.

During his senior season, Long tied for third in the country with 14 sacks and was 14th in tackles for loss. And in case you haven't figured it out by now, he's the son of Hall of Famer and FOX TV personality Howie.

To get a better handle on how Long projects at the next level, I solicited the help of Jeff White, who covers Virginia for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Here's what he had to say:

Q: What are Long's biggest strengths?

A: His off-the-field qualities aside -- from all accounts, he's a great teammate and a tremendously positive locker-room presence -- his greatest attribute is that he plays every play like it's his last. Check the tape of his performance against Texas Tech in the Gator Bowl. Against a team whose quarterback threw 69 passes, Long rushed as hard on No. 69 as he had on No. 1.

Q: What does Long need to improve on the most to play at the next level?

A: That probably depends on which team drafts him. In a 3-4 scheme, he's probably not big enough to be an every-down end, and he might get a look at outside linebacker. If that happens, he'll need to improve his coverage skills.

Q: What kind of defense did Virginia employ, and how was Long against the run?

A: U.Va.'s base defense is the 3-4. Long was strong against the run. He'd probably be undersized as a DE in an NFL 3-4. At 6-4, 280, he'd be an ideal 4-3 DE.

Q: What is his relationship with his father? Has Howie been heavily involved in Chris' college career or has he chosen to stay in the background? How has Chris dealt with all the comparisons to his father?

A: Howie and Chris are extremely close. Howie has managed to stay in the shadows, at least publicly, while still giving Chris support (and technical assistance). Until this season, for example, Howie declined most interview requests from reporters who cover Chris. The comparisons to his father have never seemed to bother Chris. If anything, they've inspired him to work harder to establish his own identity.

Q: Would you describe Long as a "character guy"? What is his relationship with teammates and the media?

A: That's an apt description for Long. Not sure I've covered a player in any sport who was more respected by his teammates and coaches. Chris is good with the media, too. Very articulate and thoughtful. Unlike a lot of players, he pays attention to what's going on outside the program.

Q: Some have compared him to former Virginia player and current Seattle Seahawks DE Patrick Kerney. Do you think that's a fair comparison?

A: Long is probably more of a grinder than Kerney, who may have more natural talent. Chris is an excellent athlete, but what separates him from other players of comparable ability are his work ethic and his drive. He's absolutely relentless.

Q: What was Long's signature moment as a college player?

A: For me, it was his sack of Maryland quarterback Chris Turner late in the third quarter Oct. 20 at Byrd Stadium. Long hammered Turner for a safety that pulled Virginia to 17-12 and shifted momentum its way. U.Va. went on to win 18-17 (video below).

More on Long

Some interesting links to pass along:

ESPN.com's Mark Schlabach wrote an interesting piece about Long. Here's what Howie said about his parenting philosophy:

"There are a lot of former athletes who have sons that play and everyone deals with it in different ways, and I respect that," said Howie Long. "My wife and I have the same philosophy. The comparison and story line is always there and it's a convenient hook for people, which I understand. But I do as much as I possibly can to make sure that Chris has the opportunity to be his own man and enjoy his college experience as both a student and athlete."

Chris also talked about his relationship with his father:

"I wouldn't be anywhere close to where I am today without my pops," Chris Long said. "I think a lot of a football player's makeup is mental, and I've been blessed to have someone to learn from. Not just from a technical standpoint, but everything he taught me about being a hard worker, a teammate and just being a football player. He taught me there's more to it than just going out and playing football."

In this New York Times article, analyst Gil Brandt says Chris might be better than his father:

“Howie will be angry with me, but I think Chris is the better football player,” said Gil Brandt, who was the Dallas Cowboys’ vice president for player personnel from 1960-89, and is now an analyst for NFL.com. “He’s everything you want.”

This Richmond Times-Dispatch article talks about how Chris, who attended St. Anne's-Belfield in Charlottesville, Va., would lift by himself after high school basketball games on Friday nights.

And finally here's video of the hit on Turner. Sorry Terps fans.

And one more with highlights from this year's Gator Bowl, many of which involve Long

If you missed my previous draft profile on BC quarterback Matt Ryan, here it is.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 12:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)
                    

Like I said earlier, every time I've made a blog entry today, something new has popped up.

This time, Jason La Canfora from The Washington Post is reporting that the Redskins are looking to hire Rex Ryan as their new defensive coordinator under Jim Fassel, who appears to be their top choice for head coach. Here's what La Canfora says in his blog:

Jim Fassel is expected to be named head coach, and the hold-up is negotiations with the Ravens regarding Rex Ryan. As I previously reported, contrary to other reports, the Ravens retain Ryan's coordinator rights and can block a lateral move. They appear to be doing that. The sides may reach an agreement, but Ravens ownership badly wants to keep Ryan, who the players love. Fassel and Ryan spoke as recently as last night sources said and Ryan interviewed with Snyder Sunday night, according to sources.

I included this link in my previous post, but I think it warrants mentioning again since some readers were confused about Ryan's contract status. From The Sun's Jamison Hensley:

A team official explained that the Ravens' coaching staff was "released" but not fired. That means the coaches could look for other jobs, but they could remain with the team if the new coach wants them. Because Ryan is under contract for another year, the Ravens could block him from taking another defensive coordinator job under NFL rules. They couldn't stop him from becoming a head coach, so Ryan would be free to leave if he gets the Falcons' job.

Thanks to reader Rich B. for the heads-up on The Washington Post link. At this rate, I should have about 10 more posts today. Stay tuned.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 5:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (28)
                    

It's been a hectic Wednesday in terms of coaching news around the NFL.

First off, props to the readers who have provided news and links all day. Every time I try to get away from my computer, something else breaks. So let's get caught up.

The biggest news today for Ravens fans is that Cam Cameron has been brought on as offensive coordinator. Cameron spent last season as head coach of the 1-15 Dolphins, but he had success before Miami, most notably when he was directing the San Diego Chargers' offense from 2002-06. There's no question this is a positive first hire for John Harbaugh, who served on Cameron's staff at Indiana in 1997.

That's the offensive side of the ball. Then there's the defense. Several outlets, including the Associated Press, are reporting that the Atlanta Falcons have offered their head coaching job to Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Smith, who previously was part of the Ravens' coaching staff from 1999-2002. Rex Ryan had been considered a strong candidate for the Falcons' job but it appears the former Ravens defensive coordinator can't catch a break. He interviewed with the Ravens, Dolphins and Falcons during this offseason for their head coaching vacancies, but it looks like Ryan will have to settle for being a defensive coordinator another season. He interviewed for the Chargers' head coaching job before the 2007 season, but San Diego opted to go with Norv Turner instead.

The question Ravens fans want to know is: Will Ryan return to Baltimore as defensive coordinator? Some of you have wondered about Ryan's contract situation with the Ravens. Here's the explanation from The Sun's Jamison Hensley in an article from this past Sunday:

A team official explained that the Ravens' coaching staff was "released" but not fired. That means the coaches could look for other jobs, but they could remain with the team if the new coach wants them. Because Ryan is under contract for another year, the Ravens could block him from taking another defensive coordinator job under NFL rules. They couldn't stop him from becoming a head coach, so Ryan would be free to leave if he gets the Falcons' job.

So there you have it.

And finally, the Bengals hired Jeff FitzGerald, who spent three seasons with the Ravens as linebackers coach. He'll serve in the same capacity in Cincinnati.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 3:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
                    

UPDATE: The Sun's Edward Lee is reporting that Cam Cameron is in negotiations with the Ravens about becoming the team's offensive coordinator. 

The original post: 

ProFootballTalk.com's Michael David Smith is reporting that the Ravens have added former Miami Dolphins head coach Cam Cameron to their coaching staff, presumably as offensive coordinator.

To be clear here, the article is listed in a section of the Web site called the "Rumor Mill." I was able to find a similar report in the Palm Beach Post, but it was far from conclusive:

As for Cameron, an NFL source told The Post that the former Dolphins head coach is close to becoming the next offensive coordinator for the Ravens, who on Friday named Eagles secondary coach John Harbaugh their head coach. But another league source said there still is a decision to be made in Baltimore. The second source confirmed Cameron was a finalist, along with Eagles quarterbacks coach Pat Shurmur.

Cameron was fired as Dolphins coach after a 1-15 season. Prior to landing in Miami, he served as the Chargers' offensive coordinator from 2002-06. San Diego's offense led the NFL in scoring in '06 and set a team record with 492 points.

Prior to going to San Diego, Cameron was head coach at his alma mater Indiana from 1997-2001. John Harbaugh was on Cameron's staff in 1997.

Cameron also served as an assistant at Michigan (1984-93) and was quarterbacks coach with the Redskins (1994-96).

Thanks to reader JW who alerted me to the Pro Football Talk rumor.

UPDATE: As some readers have pointed out, ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli is now also reporting that Cameron has agreed in principle to join the Ravens' staff. Pasquarelli says Cameron will serve as offensive coordinator or assistant head coach, and the deal is expected to be finalized later today.

Posted by Sheil Kapadia at 11:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (13)
                    

ESPN.com's Michael Smith is reporting that the Atlanta Falcons could name Jaguars defensive coordinator Mike Smith their new head coach as early as this afternoon.

If the report is true, Rex Ryan is out of head coaching options since the Redskins would have the only vacancy and there have been no reports that he's being considered in Washington.

Smith served as a defensive assistant with the Ravens from 1999-2002. He was a defensive assistant/defensive line coach from 1999-2001. In 2002, Smith replaced Jack Del Rio as the linebackers coach when Del Rio went to Carolina to become the Panthers' defensive coordinator. He was then named Del Rio's defensive coordinator in Jacksonville prior to 2003.

ESPN.com's report says Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier is believed to be the Falcons' second choice. AJC.com reports that the four finalists are Smith, Frazier, Ryan and Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. The Falcons cannot talk to Spagnuolo until after the Feb. 3 Super Bowl.

Ryan has interviewed for three head coaching vacancies this offseason: in Baltimore, Miami and Atlanta (twice). He had been considered a strong candidate to land the Falcons' job. Ryan was also interviewed by the San Diego Chargers for the vacancy that was eventually filled by Norv Turner before the 2007 season.

The Sun's Jamison Hensley recently reported that Steve Bisciotti would like to have Ryan back as defensive coordinator if he didn't land the Atlanta job.

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According to a couple reports (ESPN and the The Washington Post), former Ravens offensive coordinator Jim Fassel has had two interviews with the Washington Redskins for their head coaching vacancy.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen says Fassel could also be considered for an offensive coordinator position with Washington. However, The Washington Post reports that Fassel is interviewing solely for the head coaching position.

Fassel served as the Ravens' offensive coordinator from 2004-Oct. 2006. Brian Billick took over the play-calling after Fassel was fired during the bye week in '06. The Ravens had a 4-2 record at the time and finished the regular season with a 13-3 record.

Gregg Williams had been considered the front-runner for the Redskins' head coaching job. He has reportedly met with owner Daniel Snyder four times, but no offer has been made.

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Here's a roundup of what the national media are saying about the Ravens:

SI.com's Peter King gives Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti credit for bringing in John Harbaugh as the franchise's third head coach:

I think, speaking of Harbaugh, I applaud Bisciotti for going against the grain and hiring a smart, ball-of-energy communicator -- a guy who hadn't been a coordinator, who hadn't been a head coach. In a way, it almost reminds me of the Steelers hiring Mike Tomlin last year. Though Tomlin had been a defensive coordinator for one season, he was a relatively untested and risky hire, but the Rooneys said, in essence, that they thought he had a bigger upside than the other candidates. Give Bisciotti credit for going with his gut.

King then includes questions and answers from his interview with Harbaugh on Sunday. Here's what Harbaugh said when King asked about his philosophy:

"A head coach has to be a leader, and he has to be a unifier. Lots of times, owners will select a coach who is basically the coordinator on one side of the football, then coordinators will be picked for special teams and the other side of the ball. The way we're going to do it is have a head coach who touches every player on the roster every day."

And here's what Harbaugh told King about how he will discipline the Ravens:

"That was really a big part of the interview process. I believe a lot of what you saw this year was snapshots in a frustrating season. I don't think they're bad guys, guys who don't want to be part of a team concept. In fact, I talked to Ray Lewis yesterday. Great talk. I was completely taken with him. He cares passionately about winning, and I know we're going to have a great relationship."

SI.com's Don Banks says he likes the hiring of Harbaugh:

While the Ravens coaching search wasn't exactly a seamless affair, it's hard to quibble with the end result. Baltimore hired former Eagles secondary coach John Harbaugh on Friday, and I like everything I know about the guy from my experiences around him in the past five years or so. Harbaugh is bright, engaging, greatly respected as a coach, and has the energy and enthusiasm that Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti was prioritizing.

... In Baltimore, the ultimate test of Harbaugh's leadership will be how he handles inheriting a very veteran locker room that includes a lot of Ravens defenders who were rooting for Baltimore defensive coordinator Rex Ryan to get the top job. Chief among them is middle linebacker Ray Lewis, who is said to have Bisciotti's ear on all things these days. My hunch is that Harbaugh will do just fine with the team's veterans in terms of earning their respect, and that Lewis will quickly sign on to the new coach's program.

Clark Judge of CBSSports.com called Andy Reid to find out more about Harbaugh:

Here's what I know about John Harbaugh, new head coach of the Baltimore Ravens: He's bright, personable, knowledgeable and professional. Here's what I don't know about John Harbaugh: Whether he can shape up a Baltimore Ravens club that is long on talent and short on team discipline. So I contacted someone who should know. I called Andy Reid, head coach of the Eagles, and after 10 minutes of conversation I was sold: John Harbaugh is the right guy at the right time for Baltimore. I'll let Reid explain.

"He'll demand respect just from his makeup and his knowledge," said Reid. "He'll hold players accountable on and off the field for their actions, and he won't back down from anybody. That's his strength. He's not afraid to get after guys."

Judge continues:

Sounds good to me. Because if there was one knock on the Ravens and former coach Brian Billick, it's that some of Billick's players -- particularly on defense -- paid more attention to each other than they did the head coach. Call it a lack of discipline, lack of respect, I don't care, but the prevailing opinion was that the Ravens needed a stronger voice in the locker room. Well, now they may have it.

SI.com's King recognized Bisciotti for one of his quotes of the week:

"I've made a living on guys with thin resumes for 25 years, and it's worked out well for me. You have to be willing to do things the masses would never do. That's how you separate yourself from the masses." --Baltimore owner Steve Bisciotti, announcing that Philadelphia assistant coach John Harbaugh, the fallback choice after Jason Garrett turned down the job and a man who has never been a head coach at any level, had been named the Ravens' head coach.

ESPN.com's John Clayton says Garrett showed he is smarter than the system:

No one doubts Garrett will be a good head coach, but to think he was ready at 41 with only three years of coaching experience is dangerous. Only three years out of the league, he's still adjusting to not being a player. Head coaches have to distance themselves from the locker room and not be pushed around by players looking to push their agendas.

ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli says Harbaugh's hiring will present a dramatic change:

The new mantra of the NFL, at least during the current firing-and-hiring cycle seems to be fresher is better. And it is a philosophy that Bisciotti embraced in gambling that Harbaugh, who never rose to the level of coordinator during his 10 seasons with the Eagles, will represent a dramatic change in culture after nine years of Billick's pomposity and overbearing mien. Coming off a disastrous 5-11 season, the Ravens are in dire need of an emotional makeover, and Bisciotti and general manager Ozzie Newsome feel strongly that Harbaugh is the man to provide it.

Tom Curran of NBCSports.com says one of Harbaugh's first challenges will be to deal with Ray Lewis:

The question Harbaugh now faces is whether he tries to involve Lewis in decision-making and give him player-lieutenant status or he treats him like the other 52? Lewis isn't going to pull punches if he's down on Harbaugh, and it's inevitable that, at some point, he's going to get that way. So better to go hardline with Lewis now while Harbaugh's still in his grace period than try and schmooze him onto your side only to have him turn on you later.

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